In a monumental celebration of a timeless classic, The Oak Ridge Boys have released a music video for their iconic hit “Elvira” for the first time in their storied career. Originally released in 1981, “Elvira” skyrocketed to fame, becoming a crossover pop sensation thanks to Joe Bonsall’s distinctive tenor lead and Richard Sterban’s unforgettable ‘oom papa mau mau’ refrain. The song’s success was nothing short of phenomenal, earning the group one of their five Grammy Awards, going double Platinum, and winning Single of the Year honors from both the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music, among many other accolades.
This newly released music video for “Elvira” is a star-studded affair, featuring appearances by several of the group’s closest friends, including Andrea Pearson, Ben James, Big & Rich, Chase Matthew, Danni Stefanetti, Deborah Allen, Denzel & Angelina Irwin (famed as Santa and Mrs. Claus from Santa’s Pub in Nashville), Hillary Williams, Kid Rock, Lorrie Morgan, Ray Stevens, Stephon Riley, T. Graham Brown, Tenille Arts, The Gatlin Brothers, Tico Hernandez, Trace Adkins, and Zach Williams. The video was masterfully directed and produced by Brandon Wood of IndieBling and premiered by *Billboard*.
“We’re particularly excited because so many of our friends could join us on what, believe it or not, is the first and only music video we’ve ever done for ‘Elvira,’” said Sterban. “And more than 40 years after it was released.”
William Lee Golden added, “Brandon Wood, our music video director, was about four years old when the song came out, and like a lot of kids, as well as adults at that time, he fell in love with the song. After we met him and started working with him in 2017, one of the first things Brandon told us was that he had always dreamed of putting together a music video for ‘Elvira.’ The idea of doing that—and the concept he envisioned—came together in late 2023 when our record label got excited about it. We also appreciate Logan Rogers, the President of Lightning Rod Records, for his enthusiasm for this project and everything we do with him.”
For those eager to experience this historic video, it is available for purchase and streaming at orcd.co/orb-elvira.
The Oak Ridge Boys continue to make waves in the music world as they tour the country on their *American Made Farewell Tour*, which is still being booked. This tour follows the recent launch of their new website, showcasing a fresh look, an updated store, videos, and much more.
The Oak Ridge Boys have a rich legacy, having received four Academy of Country Music Awards, two American Music Awards, five Billboard Awards, four Country Music Association Awards, five Grammy Awards, and twelve Gospel Music Association Dove Awards. They are proud members of the Grand Ole Opry, the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, and the Country Music Hall of Fame. Over the years, they have achieved an impressive seventeen #1 hits, including “Leaving Louisiana In The Broad Daylight,” “Bobbie Sue,” “Trying To Love Two Women,” “(I’m Settin’) Fancy Free,” “American Made,” and, of course, “Elvira.” With thirty-seven Top 20 country hits, twelve gold albums, three platinum albums, and one double-platinum album, The Oak Ridge Boys have solidified their place in music history across gospel, pop, and country genres.
The current lineup of The Oak Ridge Boys includes William Lee Golden, who joined in 1965; Duane Allen, who joined in 1966; Richard Sterban, who joined in 1972; and Ben James, who joined in January 2024 following the retirement of Joe Bonsall. Bonsall, who retired from touring in January 2024 and passed away in July 2024, spent the subsequent months finishing his personal memoir, I See Myself: Musings and Memories of a Blessed Life, which is set to be released in mid-November.
“Elvira” Awards:
Academy of Country Music Awards**: Single of the Year (Elvira), 1981
Broadcast Music Incorporated (BMI)**: Most Performed Song of the Year (Elvira), 1981
Cashbox: Country Crossover Group Pop/Singles, 1981
Country Music Association Awards: Single of the Year (Elvira), 1981
Grammy Awards: Best Vocal Performance by a Country Group or Duo (Elvira), 1982
Juke Box Operators of America: Song of the Year (Elvira), 1981
Music City News Fan Awards: Best Single of the Year (Elvira), 1982
Radio & Records Country Music Poll: Single of the Year (Elvira), 1981
Record World: Top Country Crossover Group, 1981
For more information on The Oak Ridge Boys, their music, and their ongoing tour, visit their their website or follow them on social media.