Join Grant and Schnee as they look at The Osmonds in the Seventies: Miles of Smiles.
The Osmonds are an American family music group that became famous in the 1960s and 1970s, known for their contributions to pop, rock, and country music. Here's a brief overview:
Origins and Early Career:
Family Background: The Osmonds come from a large family of nine siblings from Ogden, Utah. The original performing group consisted of brothers Alan, Wayne, Merrill, Jay, and Donny. Later, sisters Marie, Jimmy, and Virl also joined in various capacities.
Start in Show Business: They began performing as a barbershop quartet in the early 1960s, influenced by their father, George Osmond, who was a part-time entertainer. Their big break came when they appeared on "The Andy Williams Show" as regular performers from 1962 to 1969.
Rise to Fame:
Music Style: Initially known for their clean-cut, wholesome image, the Osmonds transitioned from barbershop to pop music, gaining popularity with hits like "One Bad Apple" (1971), which was their first number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100.
Solo Careers: Donny and Marie Osmond emerged as stars in their own right, with Donny having hits like "Go Away Little Girl" and "Puppy Love," while Marie had success with "Paper Roses." Their variety TV show, "Donny & Marie," ran from 1976 to 1979, cementing their status as entertainers.
Diversification:
Musical Evolution: The Osmonds experimented with different genres, including rock (notably with the album "Crazy Horses") and country. They also embraced disco in the late '70s with the album "Steppin' Out," which included the hit "I Can't Live a Dream."
Las Vegas Shows: Donny and Marie have had long-standing residencies in Las Vegas, which have been a significant part of their career longevity.
Later Years:
Comebacks and Nostalgia: Over the years, various members have reunited for tours and new music. They've toured both as a full family act and in various combinations. Their music and TV shows from the '70s have kept them in the public eye through nostalgia and revival tours.
Legacy: The Osmonds have left a notable mark in entertainment history, with multiple generations of the family still involved in music and performance arts. They've sold millions of records worldwide and have been influential in shaping the family act phenomenon in music.
Recent Activities:
While the group's peak was decades ago, they continue to perform in various formats, with Donny and Marie particularly active in solo performances and joint shows.
The Osmonds' story is one of family, music, and adaptation to changing musical landscapes, making them a unique chapter in American pop culture.
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Special thanks to Scott Shawver for his vocal talents