In brief
Wayne Osmond, a foundational member of the legendary Osmond family band known for their hits in the '70s, has died at 73 years old. His brothers, Donny and Merrill, shared heartfelt tributes, highlighting Wayne's musical genius and radiant spirit. The family, who rose to fame for their harmonious talent, continues to remember Wayne's impact, having co-written popular tracks like "Crazy Horses" and "One Bad Apple." Born in Utah, Wayne faced health obstacles throughout his life but remained devoted to his craft and family, leaving behind a lasting legacy.
Wayne Osmond, a founding member of family band The Osmonds, who had a string of hits in the 1970s, has died at the age of 73. Wayne was a singer and guitarist, and co-wrote many of their biggest hits, including Crazy Horses, Goin' Home, and Let Me In. "Wayne brought so much light, laughter, and love to everyone who knew him, especially me," wrote brother Donny. "He was the ultimate optimist and was loved by everyone." Merrill Osmond called his late brother "a genius in his ability to write music" who was "able to capture the hearts of millions of people and bring them closer to God." The cause of death was reported as a stroke.Born in August 1951 in Ogden, Utah, Wayne was the fourth oldest of nine children raised in a Mormon household. Early performances included a barbershop quartet with brothers Alan, Merrill, and Jay, leading to their Disney gigs and a debut on The Andy Williams Show in 1962. Known as "one-take Osmonds" for their seamless performances, the group saw commercial success after being signed by MGM Records. Their hit "One Bad Apple" topped charts in 1971, propelling them to fame.During their peak, the Osmonds experienced mass hysteria similar to The Beatles, with thousands flocking to see them perform in the UK. Yet, as trends shifted in pop music, their popularity waned by the late '70s, leading to their hiatus and eventual dissolution in 1980. Despite health challenges—like a childhood brain tumor—Wayne maintained a love for music and family, culminating in a final performance with his brothers in 2019 on "The Talk." In retirement, Wayne enjoyed hobbies such as fly fishing and landscaping, often expressing gratitude for his life despite hardships. He is survived by his wife Kathlyn, five children, and eight siblings, who continue to cherish his memory and contributions to music.
