Richard Sterban, Oak Ridge Boys Bass Singer Known for ‘Elvira,’ Dies at 83
Richard Sterban, the longtime bass singer for the Oak Ridge Boys, whose voice was featured on the hit song "Elvira," has died at age 83. The announcement was made by the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
Champaign Urbana & Springfield Decatur, IL, November 14, 2026 —
Richard Sterban, a prominent voice in country and gospel music and the longtime bass singer for The Oak Ridge Boys, has died at the age of 83. His death was announced by the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
Sterban was widely recognized for his distinctive bass vocals, which were a signature element of The Oak Ridge Boys’ sound for decades. He was particularly celebrated for his performance on the group’s 1981 hit single, “Elvira,” a crossover success that earned a Grammy Award and became one of their most enduring songs.
Throughout his career with The Oak Ridge Boys, Sterban was part of a lineup that achieved significant commercial and critical acclaim. The group is known for blending country, gospel, and pop music styles, a combination that resonated with a broad audience. Their discography includes numerous hits beyond “Elvira,” solidifying their place in music history.
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, which announced his passing, serves as a key institution in preserving and celebrating the legacy of country music artists. The announcement of Sterban’s death marks the end of an era for fans of the group and classic country music.
Details regarding the cause of death or funeral arrangements were not immediately provided in the announcement.
Sterban joined The Oak Ridge Boys in 1972, contributing his deep vocal range to their evolving sound and helping them achieve widespread fame in the late 1970s and 1980s. His tenure with the group spanned over five decades, during which he became an iconic figure in American popular music.
Story summarized from the original created by Jaxon Steward, Gray News staff on www.wandtv.com, see more information here.
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