Bobby Osborne (1931–2023), mandolinist with the Osborne Brothers 

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Bobby Osborne was a singer and mandolinist with the bluegrass duo the Osborne Brothers, known for their hit song “Rocky Top.” 

• Died: June 27, 2023 (Who else died on June 27?) 
• Details of death: Died at a hospital in Gallatin, Tennessee, at the age of 91. 
• We invite you to share condolences for Bobby Osborne in our Guest Book. 

Bobby Osborne’s legacy 

Osborne founded the Osborne Brothers in the 1950s alongside his brother, Sonny Osborne (1937–2021). Their recording career began after Osborne served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War, during which he was honored with a Purple Heart. The brothers began recording in the mid-1950s with Bobby on mandolin and high lead vocals and Sonny on banjo and baritone harmonies while a third, rotating band member sang tenor harmonies. This was an unusual style for bluegrass, which typically had the highest voice singing harmony instead of lead, and it became their signature sound after they introduced it on their first country music hit, 1958’s “Once More.” By 1964, they were members of the Grand Ole Opry. 

The Osborne Brothers were best known for “Rocky Top,” recording the initial 1967 version of the song that would become a country music standard. It was later named one of Tennessee’s state songs. As their career evolved, the Osborne Brothers expanded their repertoire, adding sounds from pop and rock to their bluegrass. In 1971, they were named vocal group of the year by the Country Music Association. Their other hit songs included “Ruby, Are You Mad?” “Blame Me,” and “Fair and Tender Ladies.” 

After his brother’s retirement from playing in 2005, Osborne continued playing alongside his son as Rocky Top X-Press. He continued performing with Rocky Top X-Press until his death. 

Notable quote 

“Bluegrass has changed so much today. But of course, everything has to change. If the world didn’t change, there wouldn’t be no world after a while. But I’ve just sort of stuck to my style.” —from a 2017 interview for the Bluegrass Situation  

Tributes to Bobby Osborne 

Very sad to hear that this morning, Bobby Osborne has passed away.

If you've heard Rocky Top, then you have more than likely heard Bobby's signature 'high lonesome' voice and mandolin picking. Bobby was one of the first-generation bluegrass musicians who performed with the likes… pic.twitter.com/oE8FqWoTvr

— Smoky Mountains Enjoyer 🪕 🌄 (@AdmiralBoreal) June 27, 2023

We’re so thankful the Opry was home sweet home to you, Bobby Osborne. Thank you for all the cherished memories and dedication. We love you. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/icpvcMv1om

— Grand Ole Opry (@opry) June 27, 2023

Bobby Osborne was a bluegrass icon who helped put Kentucky's most famous music on the world stage. It was an honor to meet him and celebrate his talents, and I am thankful his work will allow us to remember him for generations. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. ^AB pic.twitter.com/xPoajscTj3

— Governor Andy Beshear (@GovAndyBeshear) June 28, 2023

As I mourn the loss of another musical legend in one week I drift back to a magical time & place- Listening to Bobby Osborne‘s voice float through summer night air, in my dad’s lap, under stars & carnival lights. Fly like the wind & rest, Bobby, thank you for a lifetime of music. pic.twitter.com/wfaJrlrcJT

— missyraines 💫 (@TheNewHip) June 27, 2023

Bluegrass has lost its second pioneer within a week with the passing of the great Bobby Osborne. He had a singular tenor voice, and was the lead singer for the Osborne Brothers on hits like "Rocky Top," and this number… "Ruby." Rest in Peace. https://t.co/iFLGSj1AUW

— Joe Newberry (@JoeNewberry) June 27, 2023

As a friend just said, this has been a terrible week for the mandolin. First, losing Jesse McReynolds, and now Bobby Osborne, heroes of mine for many years. The loss of Bobby is a particular sting, I’ve been fortunate to work with him many times over the years. Farewell, Bobby 😢 pic.twitter.com/VMEpCsUQTN

— Ben Surratt (@bensurratt) June 27, 2023

Had the chance to see the legendary Bobby Osborne sing Rocky Top at the @opry earlier this year on March 31, which will likely go down as one of his final appearances at the Grand Ole Opry House. pic.twitter.com/H8BMoefoWG

— Robert Sampson (@RobertSampson) June 27, 2023

Full obituary: The New York Times