I have seen Jim Yorfido a few times over the past year. The first couple of times were at Flamboro Downs (now, Elements Casino), then in Maryhill, ON, and most recently at the Niagara Falls Elvis Festival in April, 2018 where Jim reprised his role as Johnny Cash for the second annual Elvis Festival Gospel Hour. Jim entertained everyone Sunday morning with his splendid singing and guitar and fiddle playing. Jim did a rousing rendition of "Orange Blossom Special", as well as singing and playing Johnny Cash's much loved songs, "He Turned the Water into Wine" and "Why Me, Lord".
I was able to speak with Pam and Jim after the show, and it was then that I learned that Anthony Yorfido is Jim's brother's son. Interestingly, I had met Anthony at the NFEF Family Day, and with his mother's permission took photos of Anthony dancing on the stage with ETA Richard Wolfe.
I had originally planned on including Anthony in a blog about the younger ETAs and guests at the NFEF; however, the opportunity to tell Anthony's story coincides nicely with his uncle's show tomorrow night. Anthony's story may be familiar to some, but it may well be new to SIDEBURNS readers outside Canada. Besides, a good story is always worthy of retelling--and this is a good story.
It wasn't until Anthony's companion suggested a "family photo" of Jim and Pam with Anthony that I became aware of the connection between Anthony and Jim Yorfido. I also learned from Anthony's companion that Anthony not only has a connection with Jim, he has a connection with Steven Tyler from Aerosmith. In a strange series of events, which are outlined in the articles linked below, Anthony was asked on stage to perform with Steven Tyler at Fallsview Casino's Avalon Theatre. The story of Anthony Yorifido and Steven Tyler was also covered in a Reynolds Report video. Videos of the momentous occasion on the Fallsview stage, a video of a second performance, and the Reynolds Report are posted below under "Videos". I also included three videos of Jim, since I hope when you watch his amazing performances as Johnny Cash, you will be encouraged to drop by Elements Casino tomorrow night for Jim's live show. Cheers! Carolyn.
Photos
A delighted Anthony, dressed in his Elvis jumpsuit, poses with ETA Dean Z, who also performed in the NFEF Gospel Hour with Jim, Connor Russo, Sandy Vine, and surprise guest, ETA Justin Shandor, who was filling in for an ailing ETA Tim E Hendry. Pam Yorfido joined her husband, Jim Yorfido (aka Johnny Cash), for a photo after the show. Pam also posed with Anthony, who added a red scarf, black wig, and sunglasses to complete his Elvis look.