Richard Sterban, a name that resonates with the rich harmonies and deep basslines of The Oak Ridge Boys, has left an indelible mark on the world of country and gospel music.

As the steadfast bass singer for the legendary quartet, Sterban’s velvety vocal prowess has captivated audiences for decades. From the iconic “Elvira” to the infectious “Bobbie Sue,” Sterban’s powerful lows have not only elevated their chart-topping hits but have also earned him an enduring place in music history.

Beyond his contributions to The Oak Ridge Boys, Sterban’s impressive career boasts collaborations with renowned artists across various genres, showcasing his versatility and remarkable talent. In this article, we delve into the life and legacy of Richard.

Wiki/Bio: Age, Early Life, Education

Richard Sterban, born on April 24, 1943, in Camden, New Jersey, is a renowned American singer. His parents, Richard Sterban and Mary Sterban, were of Slovak descent. Growing up in a Catholic household, Sterban received his early education at St. Joseph’s High School in Camden.

After completing his high school education, Sterban pursued further studies at Trenton State College (now known as The College of New Jersey). It was during his time at college that he developed a passion for music. He majored in music education and actively participated in the college choir.

Additionally, Sterban became a member of a local band called The Orions, showcasing his musical talents and honing his skills.

Richard Is Married Twice: Who Is First Wife?

Richard Sterban, the acclaimed bass singer, has been married twice in his life. His first marriage, which took place in 1966, was to a woman he met during his time singing with The Orions.

Together, they welcomed three sons into the world: Richard Jr., Chris Sterban, and Doug Sterban. However, their marital union proved to be short-lived, and they ultimately decided to part ways, finalizing their divorce in 1977.

While the identity of his first wife remains undisclosed, their relationship played a significant role in shaping Sterban’s personal life and ultimately led him on a path toward a successful career in music.

Is He Still Married?

Yes, the singer is happily enjoying his marital life after a successful marriage with his first wife. After his first marriage ended, Richard found love once again while touring with The Oak Ridge Boys. He met Donna Sterban, who would become his second wife.

They tied the knot in 1982 and have since built a strong and lasting relationship. Together, they have been blessed with two daughters named Lauren Sterban and Tori Sterban.

Their marriage has stood the test of time, as they have now been happily married for over 39 years. The couple resides in Hendersonville, Tennessee, where they have created a loving and supportive home.

Further, Sterban expresses deep gratitude for both of his marriages, acknowledging the valuable lessons he learned from them. He takes immense pride in his children and grandchildren, as they bring him immeasurable joy and fulfillment.

Net Worth

Richard Sterban, the esteemed singer and bassist, has garnered an impressive net worth of $5 million throughout his illustrious career. Renowned for his affiliation with The Oak Ridge Boys, a country and gospel quartet, Sterban’s success story is akin to that of Swedish-American contemporary artist Cleo Kinnaman.

Moreover, with over 41 million records sold and five Grammy Awards under their belt, The Oak Ridge Boys have been a pivotal source of Sterban’s financial prosperity. Also, know about musical artist Scott Tholt‘s net worth.

Beyond his work with the group, Sterban has ventured into solo projects, including the release of a captivating gospel album. Moreover, his memoir titled “From Elvis to Elvira: My Life On Stage” chronicles his remarkable journey from being a backup singer for Elvis Presley to becoming the iconic bass voice of The Oak Ridge Boys.

Music Career

Sterban’s journey to becoming a country and gospel star is a testament to his exceptional talent and the remarkable opportunities he encountered throughout his career. It all began when he joined The Orions, a local band while studying at Trenton State College. However, it was his subsequent collaboration with J.D. Sumner and the Stamps Quartet that truly set his career in motion.

As a member of the Stamps Quartet, Sterban had the extraordinary opportunity to tour and perform as Elvis Presley’s backup singer. This allowed him to lend his distinct bass voice to Presley’s iconic hit, “Burning Love”. He continued to showcase his talents alongside legendary figures like Johnny Cash and Roy Orbison.

In 1972, Sterban’s path led him to join The Oak Ridge Boys, a renowned country and gospel vocal group with a rich history dating back to the 1940s. Taking over as the bass singer, he infused the quartet’s harmonies with his unique vocal prowess, contributing to their distinct sound and musical success.

Together with The Oak Ridge Boys, Sterban played a significant role in propelling the group to mainstream stardom. Their chart-topping hits like “Elvira”, “Bobbie Sue”, “American Made”, and” Thank God for Kids” became anthems of their era.

Additionally, Sterban showcased his versatility by taking on lead vocals in songs such as Dream On and I Guess It Never Hurts to Hurt Sometimes. Also, know about another country music singer Tina Denise Byrd.

In recognition of their outstanding contributions to country and gospel music, Sterban and his bandmates were deservedly inducted into the prestigious Country Music Hall of Fame in 2015.

What Illness Does He Have?

Richard Sterban has chosen to keep his health issues and illnesses private. However, there have been reports of some medical challenges he has faced in recent years. In 2017, he was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, a heart condition that causes irregular heartbeats.

Likewise, Richard underwent a treatment called ablation to restore his normal heart rhythm, and he successfully recovered from the procedure. Despite this health setback, he continued to tour with The Oak Ridge Boys.

In 2022, Sterban announced his retirement from touring, expressing his desire to slow down and prioritize spending time with his family. While he did not disclose any specific health reasons for his decision, he expressed gratitude for his long and successful career with the band.

Additionally, Richard mentioned that he would still be involved in making music with The Oak Ridge Boys and would appear at special events, indicating that he remains dedicated to his craft.

Keep Visiting Favebites!

Tags