Country Music Hall of Famer warns of scammers impersonating him days after heartbreaking health news

Country Music Hall of Famer warns of scammers impersonating him days after heartbreaking health news

Just days after announcing that he was retiring from touring due to a debilitating medical condition, Oak Ridge Boys singer Joe Bonsall returned to social media Saturday with a disturbing warning for his fans.

Turns out, in 2024 nothing is too low for some folks, and per Bonsall, it appears that someone is attempting to capitalize off of his misfortune while reaching out to fans and pretending to be him.

“It has come to our attention that someone has recently been posing as Joe Bonsall and reaching out to fans by way of direct message,” a message he shared to X, formerly Twitter, read. “Always be careful and use the upmost discretion when you are communicating on social media, especially if you are contacted in this manner. Do not share your personal information or send money to someone you have only messaged with online no matter who they say the are. If you suspect an imposter, report the account to the social media network used to contact you. Also, please note that The Oak Ridge Boys’ Joe Bonsall does NOT have a Facebook or Instagram account.”

Bonsall, 75, has reportedly been battling a neuromuscular disorder which prompted him to announce last week that he was retiring from touring.

“I am now at a point where walking is impossible, so I have basically retired from the road,” he reportedly said. “It has just gotten too difficult. It has been a great 50 years, and I am thankful to all the Oak Ridge Boys band crew and staff for the constant love and support shown to me through it all. I will never forget, and for those of you have been constantly holding me up in prayer, I think you and ask for you to keep on praying.”

While Bonsall steps away the group will reportedly continue its Farewell Tour with 27-year-old Ben James taking his spot.

“There is a young man named Ben James singing for me out there, and he needs your love and encouragement,” Bosnall reportedly said in his statement. “His sound is different than mine, but he brings a ton of talent to the table! The Oak Ridge Boys will finish the Farewell Tour without me, but rest assured, I am good with all of it! God’s Got It!!!”

The tour is slated for a stop in Lancaster on March 16 and March 17 at the American Music Theater.