Richard Sterban, the booming bass voice behind the Oak Ridge Boys’ iconic “oom-papa-mow-mow” refrain in their 1981 hit “Elvira,” has died at 83. Sterban’s family announced that the singer died Saturday at his home in Hendersonville, Tennessee, from complications of bronchitis and pneumonia following a long battle with pancreatic cancer. “We appreciate all of your love, support, and prayers,” the family said in a statement. “Please continue to lift us up in this difficult time; we find comfort knowing that he is currently face to face with Jesus.” Sterban joined the country vocal quartet in 1972 and helped propel the group to mainstream success. “Elvira” became one of their biggest hits, earning the Oak Ridge Boys a Grammy Award for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1982. Sterban also sang backup vocals for Elvis Presley and Paul Simon. “He used his unmistakable bass voice to connect commercial country music to its deep gospel roots,” Country Music Hall of Fame CEO Kyle Young said, calling Sterban “a steady force and a foundational figure in country music.” Sterban is survived by his wife, Donna; daughters Lauren and Tori; sons Rich, Doug, and Chris; eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
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