Intro
I receive many requests to post ETAs that I have not have had the pleasure of seeing perform in person. When I receive a request, I first check to see if they have a video on Youtube. When I watched Thomas Greene’s video from the 2018 Lake George Festival, what impressed me the most was his honest assessment of his tribute and his willingness to listen to helpful critiques:
“I realize that my performance isn't the best out there. There are countless ETAs out there and all quite talented. If y'all have constructive criticism that can further help me improve, by all means share it. I know I've got a ways to go and I welcome the helpful advice.”
Thank you, ETA TJ Greene for sending along your bio and photos to be posted on SIDEBURNS Magazine. Best of luck with your ETA career, TJ.
Bio
My name is TJ Greene. I'm a 36 year old Elvis Tribute Artist residing in Glens Falls, NY. I've been an active tribute performer for nearly 8 years, though I've been part of the Elvis Tribute community for roughly 15 years and an Elvis Presley fan for much much longer. My main background was in musical theater which I feel helped in my approach to Elvis performing. I spent 7 years behind the scenes doing sound work for local ETA Joe Ramsey. In that time I was blessed to meet many other incredible artists I'm honored now to call my friends and family. But it was thanks to my close friend, Cliff Wright, that I had the nudge to go from behind the scenes to on the stage. I did my very first local show with no real Elvis costumes, but I gave it my passion and my all. Months later I made my contest circuit debut at Reflections of the King in Westfield, NY. During my 8 years I have performed at various charity functions. I've appeared several times on the public access show Schenectady Today. I've created my own charity fundraiser to donate money to cancer and diabetes research. And in 2017 I won 5th place in the Non Pro Early Era division of the Lake George Elvis Festival. While many folks have since informed me that they feel I'm a professional after 8 years, I personally don't like to refer to myself that way. I always try to learn and experience new things as a tribute artist. Each show I perform, each new venue, each song I learn, I try to keep my vow to bring something new to the table. I've had the honor of performing along side the most talented individuals I could ever meet and of meeting the most loyal Elvis fans. I cannot imagine my life without these incredible folks being part of it. Now I look ahead to the next new experience. And I have the legend that is Elvis Presley to thank for that.
Video
“Looking back at this video is amazing and surreal at the same time. It was a blessing to have made the finals last year (2017). And among such incredible performers and people. Thank you so much for this memory!” ETA TJ Greene
Note: All photos used in this post were provided by ETA TJ Greene.