Tuesday, November 6, 2007

Donny and Marie's Dad Dies

Category: News

George Osmond, the patriarch of the Osmond family, died today (11/6) in Provo, Utah. He was 90.

His children became famous singing on Andy Williams' variety series in the 60s. Donny first appeared on The Andy Williams Show at age 6.

The Osmond Brothers' biggest hit was the Jackson Five sound-alike "One Bad Apple" in 1971. Donny Osmond's biggest hit as a solo performer was "Go Away Little Girl," also in 1971. His duet with sister Marie, "I'm Leaving It (All) Up to You" was a top 5 hit in 1974. Marie, as a solo performer, had four #1 country hits, including "Paper Roses" (which was also a top 5 pop hit).

George Osmond taught barbershop quartet singing to his four oldest sons (Alan, Wayne, Merrill, and Jay). Their singing netted them a job at Disneyland in the early 60s, where Andy Williams found them and invited them to join his show.

In total, there were nine Osmond children. The oldest two never performed professionally because of hearing impairments.

The elder Osmond's wife, Olive, died May 9, 2004 from a stroke. He is survived by 55 grandchildren and 48 great-grandchildren.

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