In Loving Memory of Greg McIntyre (SILVER ELVIS) – 20th Anniversary
By Bradford McIntyre
February 24, 2026—Today marks 20 years since the passing of my brother, Gregory McIntyre. Many knew Greg as SILVER ELVIS, with the natural silver-gray hair and the powerful vocal sound. But long before the stages of Southern Ontario, I knew him as the boy just 18 months younger than me, dreaming through a living room window.
Greg and Brad
Our journey started with the crackle of our parents’ 78s and 33 1/3 records, and the 45s passed down by our older siblings. We grew up side by side in a house filled with the vocal era’s greatest sounds. I watched Greg transform kitchen utensils into microphones for our “picture window shows,” performing for friends long before he even owned a real microphone and amplifier.
Greg’s journey began at, just eight years old, when he heard “Teddy Bear” and was instantly captivated — not by the fame or the image, but by the sheer quality of the voice. By age fourteen, he purchased his first record, the gospel masterpiece “His Hand in Mine,” sparking a lifelong devotion to the music. Greg spent years in solitary practice, developing the range and strength required to tackle the most demanding songs in the Presley catalogue.
One of our greatest adventures was in 1973. Being older, Greg asked me to book tickets to see Elvis Presley — flights and hotel at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Watching Elvis live that year was the masterclass Greg brought home to Sarnia. Greg attended four live Elvis concerts — moments he cherished as the greatest of his life. It was in Las Vegas that he bought his diamond horseshoe ring — like the one Elvis wore.
The turning point for Greg came in the summer of 1997, when he travelled from London to the early years of the Collingwood Elvis Festival. Competing against dozens of traditional ETAs, Greg walked away with an Elvis Tribute Award for his singing. It was a historic win that validated his belief: that the music itself, delivered with sincerity, was what truly moved people.
Greg became a professional artist who worked through booked engagements, bringing a polished show to venues and organized events. He provided a “sonic time machine” that allowed audiences to close their eyes and feel as though they were hearing the real thing. He was a singer, not an impersonator. As he said, his goal was to “reach back to the sound” and create a “tribute in song to those memories.”
Greg McIntyre
SILVER ELVIS
Known professionally as SILVER ELVIS, Greg’s stage name was a tribute to his natural silver hair. He didn’t wear the traditional jumpsuits of the Vegas era, opting instead for a classic look: pants, a shirt, and a wide red leather belt — a nod to the iconic style Elvis wore during his most powerful vocal years.
Known for his “second-to-none” musical dedication, Greg’s career was built on the integrity of the vocal performance and his genuine respect for Elvis Presley’s legacy.
A Legacy of Courage
In 2002, Greg was diagnosed with his “mountain” — colon cancer. His Black Belt discipline never wavered. I will never forget the private performance he gave for me, my husband Deni, my sister Heather, and her husband Peet, on the eve of his surgery. Although I knew Greg sang, living in Vancouver meant that, unlike the rest of the family, I had never attended one of his events.
It was the most sincere dedication of his life.
For the next four years, Greg battled the disease with the same resilience he showed in the dojo and on stage. During this time, songs like “You Gave Me a Mountain” took on a deeper, more poignant meaning.
Brad and Greg
In February 2006, when Greg knew he was going to die, he gave his diamond horseshoe ring to me, asking me not to take it off — to wear it until his eldest son, Scott, was old enough to truly appreciate it. I wore Greg’s ring for 15 years, a constant reminder of our unique bond.
Today, as that ring rests with Scott and Greg’s voice plays on my tribute page, I am reminded that while he was “SILVER ELVIS” to the fans, he was always just my brother to me.
As we remember Greg’s life and the joy he brought through his music, I also want to take a moment to speak directly to the fans, friends, and communities who supported him throughout his journey.
I love you and I miss you, Greg. Your voice is still being heard.
A Message of Gratitude on this
20-Year Anniversary
Greg McIntyre, SILVER ELVIS, on stage.
To the fans, friends, and the many communities across Southern Ontario who welcomed Greg and his music into your hearts: thank you.
Whether you saw Greg perform at the Collingwood Elvis Festival, the Western Fair, London Ribfest, or any of the stages where he performed, your applause was the fuel for his “sincere dedication.” Greg didn’t just want to sing; he wanted to connect with the “sound you remember,” and your support allowed him to live that dream.
As Greg’s brother, it has been my honour to be the custodian of his story — and his diamond horseshoe ring. Today, as we listen to his voice once more, I thank you for keeping his memory alive.
With sincere appreciation,
Bradford McIntyre
Listen to songs recorded by Greg McIntyre here
In loving memory of GREG (Gregory Noel) McINTYRE
December 27, 1953 - February 24, 2006
~ with a song in his heart ~
“Being just 18 months apart, my brother Gregory McIntyre and I grew up side by side,
creating a unique bond rooted in deep love and affection.
I love you and I miss you. Your voice is still being heard.” Bradford McIntyre
Visit: Remembering Greg McIntyre – SILVER ELVIS
Visit: Greg McIntyre: SILVER ELVIS – Elvis Tribute Artist
|
