Long Live 'The King'

Elvis Presley, the "King of Rock 'n' Roll," may have passed away in 1977, but his music and spirit are not forgotten, thanks to people like Robert Dale. When he's not working in the warehouse of Pittsburgh distributor D.H. Bertenthal & Sons, Robert performs as an Elvis impersonator.

"I have been an Elvis fan ever since I could walk, and have been singing Elvis music since I was very young," says Robert. "I would sing in the bathroom, but was very hesitant to perform in public."

Robert's confidence to perform for audiences grew about 20 years ago when he started to sing karaoke. Around Christmas time one year he decided to sing Elvis' version of "Blue Christmas."

"I was very nervous, so as soon as I finished the song, I put the microphone down and walked straight to my seat," says Robert. "People applauded like crazy."

After awhile, he calmed down and sang another song.

"From that time forward, I was hooked. It felt so good to perform," he says.

Robert has been doing an Elvis Presley impersonation act for about two years. It began when someone suggested he visit a nearby race track to see an Elvis impersonator, or "ETA" (Elvis Tribute Artist) perform. Robert thought he was just going to watch the performer, but instead, the impersonator invited Robert to sing with him.

"I sang 'Blue Suede Shoes.' Afterwards, people came up to me, gave me their business cards, and said, 'Look us up,' including folks from as far away as Florida," says Robert.

Primarily performing in the Pittsburgh area, Robert expands his show every year. A lot of preparation goes into the act. Robert has to learn and memorize the words and music, study films of Elvis performing, and finally, rehearse.

Then there's the costuming: Robert performs in outfits similar to those worn by Elvis in the 1950s and the 1970s. His stage show also includes strobe and colored lights, and requires a team of three people to handle lighting, sound and props.

"I'm really serious about my performances, and want people to see the show again and again," says Robert. "I have a professional mindset, and try to make sure that what I do is not a corny knockoff. I want my performances to be respectfully done and serious tributes to a great singer."

A typical performance for Robert is two hours long and incorporates music from the entire Elvis catalog, including gospel, rock 'n' roll, spiritual and inspirational songs. Every show is different and Robert likes to do at least two sets of about 17 songs each, per show.

"As I get into my first set, I get warmed up. By the time I begin my second set, I really start getting into the Elvis spirit," says Robert.

Since Elvis' music is very clean, Robert usually performs for churches and charities. He especially enjoys participating in fundraisers to raise money for families with children who have health issues.

"I love to hear audience members say, 'He looks just like Elvis,' and to feel like they saw Elvis," he says.

Gretchen Roufs, an 18-year janitorial supply industry veteran, owns a marketing and public relations company in San Antonio. To suggest someone you think should be featured in “Freetime,” contact her at Gretchen@GretchenRoufs.com.