Oak Ridge Boys Bass Singer Richard Sterban Dies at 83

Richard Sterban, the bass singer whose distinctive refrain helped define the Oak Ridge Boys’ recording of “Elvira,” died on November 14 in Hendersonville, Tennessee. He was 83. His family and the group said bronchitis and pneumonia complications followed a long fight with cancer.

His family expressed gratitude for the support they had received and asked for continued prayers, saying their faith brought comfort during their loss.

Born in Camden, New Jersey, on April 24, 1943, Sterban began singing as a child. He later performed with gospel groups, including J.D. Sumner and the Stamps, who sang with Elvis Presley. Sterban appeared with Presley in the 1972 concert film “Elvis on Tour.”

He joined the Oak Ridge Boys in 1972. The group’s 1981 rendition of Dallas Frazier’s “Elvira” topped country rankings and peaked at fifth on pop listings, moving over two million copies and earning a Grammy. Sterban supplied the song’s memorable low-pitched “oom poppa mow mow” refrain.

The group also recorded hits including “Bobbie Sue” and “American Made,” and received induction into the Hall of Fame for country music in 2015. Sterban stopped touring for health reasons in May 2025, then returned to perform “Elvira” with the group at the Grand Ole Opry in January.

He is survived by his wife, Donna; five children; eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. His mother, brother and a grandson had died before him.