On This Date: Wayne Osmond (The Osmonds) Born in 1951

August 28, 1951 – Wayne Osmond, born Melvin Wayne Osmond in Ogden, Utah, was a musician, singer, and guitarist best known as a founding member of The Osmonds. He passed away on January 1, 2025, at age 73.

Career Highlights:

• Began performing in 1958 with brothers Alan, Merrill, and Jay as a barbershop quartet.

• Discovered at Disneyland and became regulars on The Andy Williams Show (1962–1969).

• Appeared in The Travels of Jaimie McPheeters (1963–1964).

• Key member of The Osmonds’ pop-rock era with hits like “One Bad Apple” (No. 1 US, 1971), “Yo-Yo”, and “Crazy Horses” (1972).

• Played lead guitar, occasionally drums, and mastered eight instruments including flute, clarinet, and saxophone.

• Known for his perfect pitch, baritone vocals, and guitar work likened to Jimmy Page.

Later Years:

• Battled health challenges including a brain tumor (1997), hearing loss, and a stroke (2012).

• Retired from performing after the final Osmonds show in 2018, with a special appearance in 2019 for sister Marie’s birthday.

• Nicknamed “Wings” for his pilot’s license.

• Married to Kathlyn White (Miss Utah 1974), with five children.

Wayne Osmond leaves behind a legacy as part of one of America’s most iconic family bands, blending barbershop harmonies, pop, and rock into a lasting cultural impact.