In brief
In a heartfelt tribute, his brothers honored his remarkable contributions to the music world while recounting their cherished family moments together.
Wayne Osmond, a key member of the iconic family band The Osmonds, known for their chart-topping hits in the 1970s, has passed away at the age of 73. Celebrated as a talented singer, guitarist, and songwriter, Wayne co-wrote numerous hits for the band, including cherished tracks like "Crazy Horses," "Goin' Home," and "Let Me In." His brother, Donny Osmond, remembered him as a beacon of positivity, stating, “He was the ultimate optimist and was loved by everyone.” Another brother, Merrill, described Wayne as “a genius in his ability to write music,” who spread unconditional love to all.The Osmond family's sorrow was compounded by the news that Wayne's passing resulted from complications related to a stroke. Born in August 1951 in Ogden, Utah, Wayne was the fourth of nine children raised in a devout Mormon family. In the early years, he showcased his musical talent alongside his brothers, performing in a barbershop quartet. Their musical journey gained momentum in 1961 when they became recognized performers at Disneyland.The band's big break came with their appearance on “The Andy Williams Show,” leading to their nickname “one-take Osmonds” for their polished performances. The siblings had a rocky start in the industry, but their fortunes changed when MGM Records signed them, and they recorded the hit song “One Bad Apple,” marking the beginning of their climb up the music charts.During their peak years in the early 1970s, The Osmonds experienced enormous fanfare that rivaled The Beatles. However, with the rise of Donny and Marie Osmond's television career, the group stepped back and eventually disbanded in 1980, although they occasionally reunited for special performances.Wayne dealt with significant health challenges throughout his life, including a childhood brain tumor that led to cognitive issues. He underwent surgery and treatments which resulted in hearing loss, but he remained upbeat about his life. He enjoyed spending his retirement exploring hobbies like fly fishing and taking care of his garden. Wayne is survived by his wife, Kathlyn, five children, and his eight siblings, each remembering him fondly for his joyous spirit and musical legacy.
