His younger brother Donny later described him as a protector and guide and credited him with carrying responsibilities that allowed the other family members to shine.
That description offers an important insight into Alan's role.
He was not necessarily the Osmond whose face appeared most frequently on magazine covers.
He was one of the people helping make those appearances possible.
The success of the Osmonds required extraordinary organization.
There were recordings, television appearances, tours, rehearsals, songwriting sessions, business decisions and family responsibilities.
Alan was deeply involved in that machinery.
His leadership helped turn a group of talented siblings into a professional entertainment operation.
The Osmonds Were More Than a Pop Group
One reason the Osmonds remained distinctive was the importance of their faith.
The family was raised in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and their religious beliefs influenced their personal lives and, at times, their music.
One of Alan's most significant projects was The Plan, a 1973 concept album that openly reflected the family's religious beliefs.
