Impersonating Elvis Presley has become a thriving industry, but the question remains: is anyone doing it better than Emilio Santoro right now?
Emilio’s rise to fame took a significant leap when he auditioned for America’s Got Talent. During his performance, he wowed the audience with a stunning duet alongside a holographic Elvis, brought to life through cutting-edge AI and hologram technology.
Who Is Emilio Santoro?
Emilio Santoro is an exceptionally talented Elvis Tribute Artist hailing from Weston-super-Mare in Somerset, England. Born on November 14, 2002, Emilio’s journey into music stands out because neither of his parents came from musical backgrounds.
His mother, Emma Santoro, worked as a business manager for a catering company, while his father, Joe Santoro, was a self-employed builder. Despite this, Emilio’s passion and talent for capturing the spirit of Elvis have propelled him into the spotlight.
For several years, 22-year-old Emilio Santoro has been making a name for himself in the Elvis tribute community. With a string of awards and a growing fanbase, he has quickly become one of the most admired performers in the field.
“Since I began my tribute to Elvis, I’ve always aimed to honor the King sincerely. I feel incredibly lucky to travel the world singing some of the greatest music ever made,” Emilio shares.
Emilio Santoro as Elvis
In 2019, Emilio made his U.S. debut in Memphis, Tennessee—Elvis’s hometown—during the iconic Elvis Week. Beyond his tribute performances, Emilio has also explored his creativity with original music.
When the COVID-19 pandemic brought live performances to a halt, Emilio used the time to sharpen his skills and focus on his music. He released two albums, With Love and The Christmas Album, followed by a third in 2021, At the Movies, which further highlighted his range as an artist.
Emilio Santoro’s Career Milestones
In August 2022, Emilio made history as the youngest European to win the prestigious Images of the King Professional World Champion title on Elvis Presley Boulevard. By 2024, he had reached the pinnacle of his career by earning the title of Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist, the highest honor granted by Elvis Presley Enterprises.
Emilio’s dedication has also brought financial rewards. He received a $20,000 cash prize and the coveted Ultimate Winner Belt after claiming the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest title.
How Emilio Fell in Love with Elvis Presley
Emilio’s admiration for Elvis began when he was just four years old. His mother, a devoted Elvis fan, was watching videos of the King on the anniversary of his death. Young Emilio, captivated by the music and charisma, became hooked.
His mom encouraged his interest by buying him a mini Elvis jumpsuit, and his aunt contributed by making him a gold lamé suit. From then on, Emilio immersed himself in Elvis’s performances, learning his moves and style, unknowingly laying the foundation for his future career.
Emilio Santoro’s Personal Life
Since 2019, Emilio has been in a relationship with his girlfriend, Julia. He frequently shares photos of her on social media and posted a touching tribute in 2024 to celebrate their five-year anniversary together.
With a combination of talent, passion, and dedication, Emilio Santoro has cemented his place as one of the most remarkable Elvis tribute artists of his generation.
“Five amazing years with this absolute gem. I’m so grateful to have someone who brings me so much happiness every single day,” Emilio wrote in a heartfelt post. “Not many people could handle the constant travel that comes with what I do, but you’re always there, supporting me, pushing me to do better, and welcoming me home with open arms. I love you so much and can’t wait to see what the future holds for us ❤️❤️❤️.”
The post, featuring a photo of Emilio and Julia standing in front of the iconic Colosseum in Rome, is pinned on his Instagram profile, a testament to the special place she holds in his life.
Emilio Santoro on America’s Got Talent
For dedicated Elvis fans, Emilio Santoro was already a familiar name, but his audition on America’s Got Talent catapulted him to a broader audience. During his standout performance, Emilio paid a stunning tribute to Elvis Presley, blending his remarkable talent with groundbreaking technology.
The highlight of the evening came when Emilio performed a duet with a holographic Elvis. Through cutting-edge AI and hologram technology, the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll appeared alongside Emilio, creating a spellbinding moment that left both the audience and the judges in awe.
It was a shining example of why Elvis’s legacy continues to thrive—thanks to incredibly talented performers like Emilio Santoro who keep his spirit alive.
I’m not afraid to admit it—watching the King perform in his prime brought tears to my eyes. It’s a moment worth sharing, so don’t forget to pass this on to your friends on Facebook!
