Impersonating Elvis Presley has grown into an entire industry, but the question remains: is anyone doing it better than Emilio Santoro right now?
Santoro’s big break came when he auditioned for America’s Got Talent, wowing audiences with a mesmerizing duet alongside a holographic Elvis. This unique performance, made possible by advanced AI and hologram technology, cemented his reputation as a standout Elvis Tribute Artist.
Who Is Emilio Santoro?
Emilio Santoro hails from Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, England, and was born on November 14, 2002. Despite his remarkable talent, neither of Emilio’s parents had a musical background. His mother, Emma Santoro, worked as a business manager in the food catering industry, while his father, Joe, was a self-employed builder.
Santoro’s rise to prominence is a testament to his dedication and passion for honoring the King of Rock ’n’ Roll.
For several years, 22-year-old Emilio Santoro has been making waves in the Elvis tribute artist scene. With multiple awards and a steadily growing fanbase, he’s now recognized as one of the most respected performers in the community.
“Ever since I began my tribute to Elvis, my goal has always been to honor the King sincerely,” Emilio says. “I feel blessed every day to travel the world, singing the greatest music ever made.”
Emilio Santoro as Elvis
In 2019, Emilio made his highly anticipated U.S. debut during Elvis Week in Memphis, the legendary performer’s hometown. While he’s widely celebrated as an Elvis tribute artist, Emilio is also a creator in his own right, having released original music.
Despite facing setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Emilio used the downtime to refine his craft and expand his repertoire. He released his first two albums, With Love and The Christmas Album, followed by a third album, At the Movies, in 2021, showcasing his range and talent.
Award-Winning Success
Emilio’s dedication has brought him remarkable achievements. In August 2022, he won the prestigious Images of the King Professional World Champion title, becoming the youngest European winner in history. In 2024, he reached the pinnacle of his career, earning the title of Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist—the highest honor awarded by Elvis Presley Enterprises.
Although the full extent of Emilio’s earnings from his Elvis career isn’t publicly known, his victories have included substantial cash prizes. In 2024, he took home $20,000 after winning the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest, along with the coveted Ultimate Winner Belt.
How Emilio Fell in Love with Elvis
Emilio’s passion for Elvis began when he was just four years old. On the anniversary of the King’s death, his mom, a devoted Elvis fan, watched videos of the performer. Intrigued, Emilio was instantly captivated by the music and energy.
His mom later bought him a miniature Elvis jumpsuit, and his aunt created a gold lamé suit for him, further sparking his fascination. Emilio spent hours studying Elvis’s performances, perfecting his moves, and laying the foundation for his remarkable tribute career.
Emilio’s Personal Life
Since 2019, Emilio has been in a relationship with his girlfriend, Julia. He often shares glimpses of their life together on social media. In 2024, Emilio celebrated their five-year anniversary with a heartfelt post dedicated to her, highlighting the couple’s enduring bond.
Emilio’s Heartfelt Tribute to Julia
“Five amazing years with this absolute gem. I’m so lucky to have found someone who brings me happiness every single day,” Emilio wrote in a heartfelt Instagram post. “Not many people could handle the constant travel that comes with my career, 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 features a beautiful photo of the couple in front of the iconic Colosseum in Rome, pinned to the top of Emilio’s Instagram. It’s a clear testament to how much Julia and their relationship mean to him.
Emilio Santoro on America’s Got Talent
While Emilio Santoro was already known among Elvis fans, his audition for America’s Got Talent brought his talent to a much wider audience. In a show-stopping performance, Emilio paid tribute to Elvis Presley, blending his impressive skills with groundbreaking technology.
The highlight of the night was a duet with a holographic Elvis, made possible through advanced AI and hologram technology. The mesmerizing performance was a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation, captivating the audience and judges alike.
This unforgettable act showcased why Elvis’s legacy continues to thrive—thanks to passionate and talented artists like Emilio Santoro who bring his music to life for a new generation.
I’ll admit it—watching the King perform at his peak brought tears to my eyes. It’s a moment worth sharing, so don’t forget to pass this along to your friends on Facebook!
