Starting in 1958, Alan and three of his younger brothers (
Wayne,
Merrill, and
Jay in their respective age orders) began singing as a
barbershop quartet. In 1961, the group headed to Los Angeles to audition for
The Lawrence Welk Show, only for host
Lawrence Welk to refuse to hear them sing; they met
The Lennon Sisters at this audition, who directed them to
Disneyland, where they found paying work as performers. During much of the Osmonds' career, Alan, being the oldest of the group, was the band's creative leader, playing piano and guitar, co-writing many of their songs with Merrill, co-producing most of their recordings, and arranging the dance choreography. He nevertheless seldom sang anything more than backing vocals, in contrast to his younger brothers. Leading The Osmonds at a young age, Alan was called "No. 1" by his brothers. although, Alan did appear for a get-together with Jay, Wayne and Merrill in 2019, as per request for their sister
Marie Osmond's 60th birthday. He was still writing songs at the time of his last performances, including a composition to celebrate the centennial anniversary of
Orem, Utah. == Personal life ==