Quebec Elvis tribute artist returning to Memphis for ultimate contest
Posted June 14, 2024 8:04 pm.
Last Updated June 14, 2024 11:40 pm.
He isn’t “returning to sender” but rather returning to Memphis, Tennessee to compete in the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest.
CityNews first introduced you to Quebecer Sylvain Leduc back in 2022, and we just “can’t help falling in love” with his tribute to the King of Rock & Roll.
“I feel like Elvis is right over my shoulder,” said Leduc. “He’s guiding me the whole show.”
“It’s a wonderful feeling,” said Leduc ahead of a show in Sainte-Martine, Quebec back on June 1. “I mean you really feel the spirit of Elvis when you go to Graceland.”
We’re “all shook up” because this is the fourth time Leduc from Valleyfield will compete, qualifying this year by winning a competition in Niagara Falls.
The competition, another chance to becoming the first Canadian to be crowned the “Ultimate Elvis” –- with a cash prize of $20,000 and a contract to perform with Elvis Presley Enterprises.
“I’d be so honorable to bring that title back to Canada, back to Quebec,” explained Leduc. “That would be so awesome.”
Growing up, he emulated his idol.
Now, touring full time he’s been paying tribute to the King of Rock & Roll professionally since 2015.
The big competition happening in August.
“It’s going to be a long drive,” said Leduc. “I would have flown it, but usually you get a lot of stuff that you get lost on flights.”
“I got to bring so much stuff because you never know what songs they’re going to give you.”
“If I’m doing a specific song,” he added. “I like to have the specific suit.”
And it’s not just about going on stage and “Shake, Rattle and Roll” – they’re scored on:
- Vocals
- Style
- Stage Presence
- Overall Performance
“I love Elvis music,” said Leduc. “I love the man for who he was, not just an artist but as a man, a humble person.”
Leduc also continues that — Elvis’ well-known generosity — from supporting numerous charities to performing for seniors.
The tributes, done with the utmost respect to the King who died in 1977.
When Leduc’s done doing it “his way” in Memphis –- his next big show: at Montreal’s Place des Arts on Sept. 21.
“Elvis Presley, even after all these years he’s passed away,” said Leduc. “He’s more than alive.”
