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Oak Ridge Boys’ Richard Sterban, Voice Behind “Elvira,” Dead at 83: Country Legend Who Left Elvis Presley to Join the Group
Richard Sterban, the Oak Ridge Boys’ bass singer whose distinctive voice featured on “Elvira”, has died aged 83 in Hendersonville, Tennessee. His death followed complications from bronchitis and pneumonia after a long battle with cancer. He was a Country Music Hall of Famer whose career helped link country music with its gospel roots.
Born in New Jersey, Sterban left touring with Elvis Presley after 18 months to join the Oak Ridge Boys in 1972, remaining with the group until stepping back from performing in September 2025. He returned for an “Elvira” performance at the Grand Ole Opry in January 2026. The group’s 1981 recording of the song sold more than two million copies, won major country music awards and a Grammy; Sterban also sang on 17 of the group’s number-one hits.
In short
- Oak Ridge Boys bass singer Richard Sterban has died aged 83.
- He joined the group in 1972 after touring with Elvis Presley.
- His bass part helped make “Elvira” a hit.