The Osmonds were one of the biggest musical empires of the ‘60s, alongside other family bands like the Jackson 5. They gained popularity for their clean-cut and wholesome image. Their lyrics were positive, and they lived a life free from drinking, smoking, or indecency. The Osmonds were also known for their versatility, as they performed various genres of music and appeared on multiple variety shows.
In a recent documentary, Larger Than Life: Reign of the Boybands, Donny Osmond, one of the five siblings in the band, attributed their wholesomeness and positive values to their father, George Osmond, a former army sergeant who was a disciplinarian. Donny, who rose to fame as a teen idol, discussed the influence his father had on both their lives and music.
Danny Osmond thanks his father for his career breakthrough
Donny explained that he held his father in high esteem and he “never wanted to disappoint him.” The 66-year-old took a trip down the memory lane at MTV Entertainment Studio, recalling his father’s unrivaled work ethic and how he instilled the same in them. He also shared a memory of watching his brothers perfect their harmonies in front of a piano, repeating it until they got it right.
However, the “puppy love” singer also acknowledged concerns about the downsides of his father’s disciplined and driven nature. Even after they “hit big,” his father would keep pushing them: “Learn a new number, keep this engine going.” Donny admitted, “It can go a little overboard. The singer appreciated his father for his sacrifices and wisdom in keeping nine children together in the show business.
The Osmonds faced show business challenges
Despite their father’s discipline and high standards, they were not completely shielded from the challenges of show business. The family faced severe financial struggles due to a series of bad business decisions, which nearly led them to bankruptcy. However, George refused to let his sons declare bankruptcy, as it would have gone against their religious ethics.
Instead, the brothers had to return to show business and were able to pay their debts and bounce back on their feet. Through it all, Donny Osmond remains grateful for the lessons his father taught him and his siblings. However, he revealed that he’s raising his children “quite differently.”