(New book) The Strange Medical Saga of Elvis Presley (Forest Tennant): Dr. Tennant was the major defense witness at Dr. Nick’s trial in 1980 and also authored the controversial article, Elvis Presley: Head Trauma, Autoimmunity, Pain, and Early Death. Will his just released new book also be controversial? This is Dr. Tennant’s book description:

... Front page headlines on the day Elvis Presley died showed the deep feelings so many had for the first and only “King” of Rock ‘n Roll. His early death at a young age was a shock. Not even 24 hours had passed after his death before the controversies started around the cause of his death. Did he really die of a heart attack as stated by the county coroner, or was his death a drug over-dose? Heart or drugs; what actually killed him? What were Elvis Presley’s health issues that plagued him during his short life? Why was he in so much pain? Why the early death?
His full medical saga has only recently begun to be thoroughly examined. After all these years people still want to know what happened to the “King.” Three years after his death, I served as the major expert defense witness for Elvis’ doctor, Dr. George C. Nichopolous. The District Attorney of Shelby County originally wanted to charge him with murder/manslaughter for “intentionally prescribing to harm Elvis Presley,” but the charges were changed to “prescribing without a legitimate medical purpose.” The jury promptly acquitted him, but I was left with many questions about what exactly was physically wrong with Elvis.

The question of “was it heart or was it drugs” remained unanswered. In the years since his death, medical research has advanced to the point that we have new insights regarding his underling health problems and untimely death. Many of the mysteries of Elvis’ life and death, which I hope to unveil in this book, can now be answered. I am in the unique position of being the only physician in the country who still has Elvis’ full medical records from the trial.

With expertise in internal medicine, addiction, and pain medicine along with having personally known his physicians, I am in a unique position to help uncover his mysterious medical saga. My hope is to shed some light on his health issues, and hopefully, with the help of medical science and common sense, solve the mystery of what really happened to Elvis!

(News, Source:Amazon/ElvisInfoNet)

Vintage Rock Magazine: Issue 52 of Vintage Rock UK magazine on sale now with ELVIS on the cover!
In the latest August 2021 issue they take an in-depth look at how TV tried to tame Elvis following his controversial appearances on the small screen in 1956.

Plus they also feature an article on the King’s partner of four-and-a-half years, Linda Thompson, who reveals all about her life with Presley in the 70s.

Also features a look at 'The Wild One' and Marlon Brando.
Jerry Lee Lewis’ eponymous 1979 debut for Elektra is the classic album and they also profile King Curtis and Bobby Lewis.

Go HERE to Vintage Rock website to order.

(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

'Let It Be Me (February 1970)' New Import: Paradise Road Records presents Elvis Sings Let It Be Me at the International Hotel, Las Vegas, Nevada.
A new album with the complete February 23, 1970 dinner show and additional songs recorded during the dinner show on February 3 and the midnight show on February 22. These AUDIENCE recordings give you the best impression of these shows; You hear how the audience reacts. Elvis sings songs like 'Don't Cry Daddy', 'Kentucky Rain', 'Long Tall Sally' and many others.
The February 23, 1970 dinner show was first released on the 2nd cd from the album 'Rock In Black' (released in 2007) but wrongly dated as the February 22, 1970 midnight show.

This limited edition album is a follow-up to the album ‘Elvis Sings Don't Cry Daddy’ presenting other great recordings from February 1970... Pure stage power!
Go to 'All The CD News 2021' for the full details and tracklist.
(News, Source;PR/ElvisInfoNet)

‘Elvis Sings Johnny B. Goode’ New Import CD: Paradise Road Records presents Elvis Sings Johnny B. Goode with recordings from the midnight shows from September 4 and 5, 1970.
Some very nice audience recordings with almost the complete September 5 show and the best from a day earlier... Shows with a lot of fun, a lot of great live versions and some rare one-lines like 'La Bamba' and 'My Way'.
Elvis also sings a part of 'Crying Time' and does some Bob Dylan Impersonations... This is an updated release from 'The Midnight Hour' (released in 2005).
Comes with a nice booklet with photos and info.
A limited edition of only 500 copies.

EIN suggests as this is not the best quality audience recording, fans should check audio quality before purchase.
Go to 'All The CD News 2021' for the full details and tracklist.
(News, Source;PR/ElvisInfoNet)

Elvis Files Magazine #35: Out soon, Elvis Files Magazine issue 35.

Articles include
- Elvis in "It Happened At The World's Fair"
- September 1956 - Elvis On The Upbeat.
- 1970 - Stories from the TCB Band
- 1958 - Elvis In waco, Texas

Go to Elvis Files and Renew your subscription today.
Or send €60 to sales@elvisfiles.no with your details.

(News, Source;EL;ElvisInfoNet)

'Introductory Guide To Elvis UK Film Memorabilia 1956 - 1977': A new book on Pre-Order at The Elvis Shop London. Compiled and written by Harry Carrigan, 'The Elvis Collector - An Introductory Guide To UK Film Memorabilia 1956 - 1977' - Hardback 282 Pages.

The publicity notes... This is the first book on the subject of collectable film memorabilia produced in the UK by the film companies to promote the thirty-one scripted films and two documentaries that Elvis starred in.

Features over 800 images including cinema posters, press campaign books, Lobby Cards, other memorabilia plus a selection of relevant magazines, newspapers and books.
Includes the soundtrack recording sessions, production information plus all the UK cinema release dates and the first known television screening dates.

Go here to Elvis Shop London for more info

(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

'It Happened at the World’s Fair' Blu-ray: Warner Archives Collection have released the new 'It Happened at the World’s Fair' on Blu-ray.

Set against the backdrop of the 1962 Seattle World’s Fair, Elvis plays pilot-for-hire Mike, whose hope of starting his own flying business is grounded by the gambling of his copilot Danny (Gary Lockwood). The two hitch to Seattle, where Mike finds romance, Danny finds easy marks and both find problems prior to a “Happy Ending.”
Keep an eye out for Kurt Russell as the child who wallops Mike in the shins.

Priced at US$20.49.

Look here on Amazon USA.

(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

'Elvis Aaron Presley L’uomo Dietro al Mito (Elvis Aaron Presley The Man Behind the Myth)': Last week, EIN published its recent interview with author Antonella Santovincenzo. As the interview went “live”, Antonella’s book, Elvis Aaron Presley L’uomo Dietro al Mito, arrived in the EIN offices.
The book has a compact, neat design, with a pleasing “fins” flexi-softcover. The cover image, an artwork by Angelica Riccardi, the author’s daughter, is strong. Inside, both the line spacing and font size are good. The page borders frame the narrative well.

The narrative appears to be interesting. EIN put 25 paragraphs through an online language translator program to get a feel for the author’s style and book content. A stream of important passages stood out, suggesting the narrative is thoughtful and stimulating.
For example (translated passage):
    p77: ....what influence did Tupelo’s economic and cultural hinterland have on him?
    p95: I don’t know how it could have happened, but today we feel Elvis closer than we felt yesterday.
    p231: The final major paradox is the grandiosity of the created image of his character and the humility, or modesty, of the man he really was.

Read EIN’s interview with Antonella here       
To buy a “signed” copy, contact Antonella: dueaedemme@tiscali.it
(News, Source: EIN)

'Elvis Unlimited' Magazine #2 Out Now: The newly reinvigorated  'Elvis Unlimited' Magazine Issue 2 is out now.
This issue features article on super-fan Judy Palmer, B.B. King and Elvis, Elvis collector John Heath plus more on the new Frank Sinatra show acetates and more.
Once again the magazine comes with an old fashioned flexi-disc this time in yellow- featuring an alternate version of 'Flaming Star'.

Go here to Memphis Mansion shop to order
€53.75 - 4 magazines yearly.

(News, Source;MM/ElvisInfoNet)

Memphis Mansion republishing 'Elvis King of the Rings Vol.1' (Paul Belard): The first volume of Paul Belard’s excellent 250 page photobook examination of Elvis’ love of rings, has been picked up for publishing by Henrik Knudsen’s Memphis Mansion organisation in Denmark.
From the press release:
        Elvis liked expensive things: cars, motorcycles, clothes, and jewelry. His jewels befitted a king. He wore sumptuous pendants hung on heavy gold chains; huge and lavish rings set with rubies, sapphires, lapis lazuli, and emeralds; bracelets of gold and precious gems. Like Elvis himself, they were at times dazzlingly tasteful and beautiful, and at other times flashy and ostentatious. Occasionally, he would design the jewels himself, such as the famous TCB – Taking Care of Business – pendant and ring.
    He loved to give his possessions away to people close to him, as well as to complete strangers. The value of the item was of no concern to him. An expensive horseshoe ring was designed by Memphis jeweller Lowell Hayes, specifically for Elvis to wear on stage during his televised Aloha from Hawaii performance in 1973. Elvis gave the ring away a few years later. It eventually sold at auction in 2017 for $204,800.

  The singer Robert Goulet described Elvis’ penchant for generosity: “I remember once we sat together backstage for two hours. And he was a charming, delightful man. And at one point I said, “That’s a beautiful ring you have there.” He said “You like it?” I said, “It’s beautiful!” He took it off his hand and put it on mine. He gave me his ring.

Memphis Mansion has the book for pre-order at 53.75 Euro (not including postage). - Go HERE to order.
Unfortunately for fans “downunder”, the postage (Global Packet) rate to Australia and New Zealand is 60 Euro.
Read EIN’s recent review of the book
(News, Source: Paul Belard/ElvisInfoNet)

Riley said, “I think when you're in grief, everything for the first time hits you. It’s like, ‘Oh I'm experiencing this in grief now.’ It's the little things at first, like I'm going to the grocery store in grief. Never done that before. And then it's like, 'I'm going back to the gym in grief.' And so you kind of have to re-experience everything in grief all over again until you've kind of done everything in grief in my experience.”
Keough described returning to set for "The Terminal List" while grieving as a new experience to learn how to navigate. Going back on set to everything being untouched was “bizarre” ..
“It’s weird… you're back in your office, so to speak, but your brother's gone,” she said.
She admitted that she had preconceived notions about suicide, so when Benjamin passed away in July 2020, she began posting videos on Instagram to “share that the people you’d never know would take their life can take their life” and set out to take away the bias surrounding suicide.

“I think people have these ways they imagined mental health looking, and I think that really for me is what I had always wanted to communicate by him. Everyone that knew him knew that, but he was just a magical person.” And I'm just very much like yes, talk about it. I want to talk about my brother.”

Keough has remembered her brother on what would have been milestone moments throughout the last year after she penned a heartbreaking tribute to him after his death.

Less than a month after he was laid to rest at Graceland, she honored her brother on what would have been his 28th birthday, simply captioning an

Go here to 'ELVIS FILES' for a neat review and plenty of preview pics.

The review includes, "This work is the result of a meticulous research and compilation of information that he carried out over many years, something that is truly admirable. I really enjoyed reading it, I became aware of events in Elvis' life that I was not aware of and above all I confirmed the humble, generous and enthusiastic nature of Elvis Presley. This book is a valuable project, a jewel for all Elvis fans, as well as a curious and interesting work for experts and lovers of aviation."

This Spanish limited edition is available now through carlosvarrenti@aol.com - Or BUY Here via Elvis Shop Argentina.

EIN thanks Robert van Beek for the info.
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

'Elvis Presley News Report July 2021: From Elvis super-fan Emiel Maier, - ' Elvis Was No Racist + Elvis Presley News Report July 2021'. In the video, Quincy Jones' claim (that Elvis was a racist) is refuted with evidence to the contrary. I can only hope that some of the media will pay attention to Quincy Jones' false accusation against Elvis. Also includes the great french WINAMAX advert featuring 'If I Can Dream' plus some great Behind-The-Scenes.

Runs 20 minutes

Click HERE to YouTube well worth watching.

(News, Source;EM/ElvisInfoNet)

"Segui quel Sogno!" New Italian Book: Published last week is the new Italian book "Segui quel Sogno!" (trad. Follow that dream!).
It is the first book on the Elvis 'FTD' label that is available on mainstream platforms.
It features reviews of all FTD products (cds, vinyls and books) from 1999 to 2020. Most of the sessions are analyzed take by take.
The book is written in italian and includes b/w pictures of all releases.
The authors are Marco Degli Esposti, Davide Raga and Giuseppe Castiglia.
This book is mainly text, the only pictures, are the ones of the cd, albums and books.
The team have been working on the book for the past 12 months.
Author Giuseppe Castiglia providing the chapter on books with detailed reviews and the reviews for the complete sessions series.
The book is published for the Elvis Italian Collector Club (www.elvis-italian-collector-club.it that is run by the authors.

It will be soon available on Amazon.it and other major Italian on-line stores and bookshops.
Go here to Italian Amazon or the IBS bookshop to order.

(News, Source;CG/ElvisInfoNet)

EIN Comment: EIN has long been of the view that China (with its 1.5 billion population) represents a golden opportunity for EPE and Sony to establish Elvis as a new major marketing presence. Back in 2002 BMG China did release some Elvis collections (as noted above) but as China now has a massive consumer culture as well as being 'on-line', Elvis’ music catalog is diverse, and his role as a saleable icon around the world is unparalleled, surely it’s a no-brainer!

Go here to read EIN’ series of articles about Robert “Yoshi” Kim (the Asian Elvis)

(News, Source;cgnt/ElvisInfoNet)

Li’l Elvis Jones & the Truckstoppers Coloring Book: The titular hero in this children’s animated series from Australia (late 1990s) was left on the doorstop of truck-stop proprietors Grace and Len, who are fervent fans of Elvis Presley.
In the opening sequence for each episode Li’l Elvis is thrown out of a gold Cadillac in a guitar case, hinting that he is the illegitimate child of Elvis Presley.
This critically acclaimed series concerned 10-years-old Li’l Elvis and his friends and featured a neat rock and roll soundtrack.

It was also the subject of a series of books. In 2021, a new coloring book has just been released.
(News, Source: Amazon/ElvisInfoNet)

Elvis , racism, and changing song lyrics to avoid jail time: There have been several good books published debunking the myth that Elvis racist. These include Elvis From Black and White to Technicolor (Paul Belard and Joseph Krein), Dispelling the Myths An Analysis of American Attitudes and Prejudices (Todd Rheingold), and Thirty Pieces of Silver: The Betrayal of Elvis Presley (Joyce Rochelle Vaughn). In his book, Dispelling the Myths, Todd Rheingold neatly addresses both the racism issue and also the songwriting credits Elvis occasionally got. On the issue that Elvis stole “black music”:
 .. When black musicians say that Elvis stole everything from them, they are shifting the focus of responsibility from where it belongs. If the American people did not wholly support a stratification or racial hierarchy within the recording industry, there would be no reason for thinly veiled racial classifications such as Country & Western and Rhythm & Blues in the first place..... The blame belongs on the backs of American people, not on Elvis Presley.
 Racism is so deeply embedded in the American psyche that one would be hard pressed to come up with alternatives to marketing musical product for popular consumption in this country that would be completely removed from racial overtones.

R&B legend James Brown, a close friend of Presley’s, writes in his autobiography that when Elvis first started, “he was copying B.B. King and them, but finally they didn’t have enough fire for him. That’s  when he really got into his own thing. Elvis was great. People still said he was copying, but he found his own style. It’s true we’ve kind of had a monopoly on certain kinds of music, but everybody’s entitled to it. They shouldn’t steal it, but they’re entitled to learn it and play it.”

 Regarding Elvis receiving a “songwriting credit”:
 Exacerbating the situation was that his publishing companies, Elvis Presley Music and Gladys Music, had their songwriters agree to forgo publishing royalties if they had their own publishing company or separate publishing contract.......When Elvis inquired as to the legitimacy of such action. he was informed that his contributions in the studio as far as arrangements and “occasional word changes” warranted such compensation. Actually, Presley did make some important alterations in the lyrics of several songs, particularly R&B songs that were too scandalously written for a mainstream audience. Besides his early Sun revisions, Elvis refurbished tunes like Smiley Lewis’s “One Night of Sin (Is All I’m Paying For)” for RCA Victor. While the original was about an orgy, with lyrics like, “The things I did and I saw/Would make the earth stand still,” the remake had to do with passionate, but monogamous sex. Elvis changed the above line to “The things we two could plan/Would make my dreams come true.”
 Today, these modifications may not seem so drastic, but in 1958 they made the difference between a pop song and an R&B song.

2) 'Love Me Tender – Through The Lens Of Robert Vose' Book / CD Combo. FTD Books is pleased to present “Love Me Tender – Through The Lens of Robert Vose”.
Pål Granlund and David English visited the 20th Century-Fox Studios archive several years ago which proved to be an amazing experience. These stunning photographs captured by Robert Vose – the majority of them unseen and unpublished since September 1956 – reveal life on the movie set with Director Robert D. Webb, his cast and crew.
Accompanying the book are two CDs.
Disc 1: The original EP, Outtakes, Stereo Masters and The Truth About Me interview.
Disc 2: The 13 recordings made at Radio Recorders between September 1-3, 1956. (EIN Notes: These were for Elvis' second LP 'Elvis' already released as an FTD Classic Album)

Go here to SONY / FTD Releases 2021 for Tracklist and Details
(News, Source;FTD/ElvisInfoNet)

(Book Review) Elvis November 1956: As fans, we do not always realize that what we think we know about Elvis’ life, happened in short periods of time. Paul Belard’s visual biography series illustrates how hectic Elvis’ life and rise to fame was.
The latest release in Paul Belard’s series of photobooks, covering just one month in 1956, highlights just how much happened.
It was a busy time, Elvis spent time with his girlfriend Natalie Wood and buddy, Nick Adams on his new Harley Davidson. He did a small tour in the south with Scotty, DJ and Bill making stops in Toledo, Cleveland, Troy and Louisville, Kentucky. And managed to squeeze in a 10-day holiday with Bitsy Mott, Gene Smith and Richard Dougher to Las Vegas, returning to the New Frontier Hotel.

EIN’s Nigel Patterson and Elvis Day By Day’s Kees Mouwen joined forces to provide a detailed review of the narrative, visual and archival highlights from what was a a very busy month for the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.

(Book Review, Source:EIN & EDayByDay)

New Italian book - 'Elvis l'Ultimo Re' (Elvis The Last King) by Michele de Pippo: This limited edition (100 copies) release comprises stories and photos the author has collected over 50 years of being an Elvis fan.
Michele also ran an Elvis fan club for five years in the 1980s. Also featured in the book is Nicla Crispa's account (with photos) of meeting Elvis twice in Vegas with well known fan, Livio Monari. Jean Marie Gargiulo also contributes an account of his two meetings with Elvis in 1969 and 1973.

There will be an official launch of the book on July 24.

(News, Source: Elvis Day By Day)

David Bowie covers Elvis: David Bowie and Elvis were both superstars, creative living legends who coincidentally shared the same birthday.
Bowie flew over to New York to see Elvis’ 1972 Madison Square Garden concert, “Elvis was a major hero of mine, and I was probably stupid enough to believe that having the same birthday as him actually meant something.”
Bowie also claimed that when he wrote his hit single ‘Golden Years’ he had offered it to Elvis to record but that Presley declined it. Both were major RCA artists.
Bowie happened to be bringing his Area 2 Tour to an end on 16 August, 2002 with a momentous headline show in Seattle on the 25th anniversary of Elvis’ death. In high spirits Bowie paused between songs to share stories including recalling the time he found out about the death of Elvis.

Bowie noted, “I was looking through the newspaper this morning and I realised it is 24 years and Elvis is still dead. You have to believe this, this is absolutely true. I was in a Maasai encampment

in West Kenya in 1977 on this day and I was drinking milk and blood taken from a cow by one of the tribesmen. I went back to my hotel in the evening, I tried to stay in one of the huts there but they wouldn’t let me, I went back and the paper said: ‘Elvis Dead’. I still have it, the Nairobi Times. Isn’t that bizarre?’
So what can an anniversary be without doing something by the man. We just learned this real quick..”
Bowie then launched into a rendition of Elvis’ 1961 single ‘I Feel So Bad’. Clearly enjoying himself Bowie’s encore also include another Elvis hit – the 1959 Number One single ‘One Night’.

In his best Elvis impression, Bowie adds, “Thank you very much. Thank you, thank you very much,”

Listen here to both tracks via YouTube.

(News, Source;NP/ElvisInfoNet)

‘Elvis - The First Engagements 1969-70’ In-Depth Review: MRS's new triple-CD set ‘Las Vegas International Presents Elvis - The First Engagements 1969-70’ was released last month. The CDs contain three captivating performances drawn from Elvis’ first two engagements at the Las Vegas International in August 1969 and January thru February 1970.
For the first time ever, these soundboard recordings (formerly in mono) have been remastered and remixed to true stereo with outstanding expertise using the most sophisticated technologies to achieve the best possible sound.
The accompanying 40-page booklet includes rare photographs and memorabilia taken during these engagements along with introductory notes.

EIN's Nigel Patterson and Piers Beagley check out this new collection and discover just how good these concerts sound in stereo - a perfect concert package for any Elvis fan.

(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

Book Review: 'Elvis The King of the Rings Vol 1': Author-researcher Paul Belard has released the latest installment in his ongoing Elvis day-by-day biography series, visually (and narratively) documenting Elvis Presley's life and times. Unlike previous volumes, this book doesn’t cover a specific period of time, it covers a “shiny” part of our man's life, his love for big and glittery jewelry, specifically rings.
Elvis liked expensive things: cars, motorcycles, clothes, and jewelry. His jewels befitted a king. He wore sumptuous pendants hung on heavy gold chains; huge lavish rings dripping of rubies, sapphires, lapis lazuli, and emeralds; bracelets of gold and precious gems.
The singer Robert Goulet described Elvis’ penchant for generosity: “I remember once we sat together backstage for two hours. And he was a charming, delightful man. And at one point I said, “That’s a beautiful ring you have there.” He said, “You like it?” I said, “It’s beautiful!” He took it off his hand and put it on mine. He gave me his ring.”

Belard's new book features 254 pages dedicated to Elvis’ love of rings.
The photos include close-ups of so much glorious "Bling" along with stories of Elvis wearing them on-stage and even where they ended up.
Go here to read our review by Kees Mouwen and Nigel Patterson
(Book Review, Source:DayByDay/ElvisInformationNetwork)

'Jay Thompson and Elvis Presley' Spotlight: In April 1956 Disc-jockey Jay Thompson, from Breckenridge radio station KSTB, interviewed a young Elvis Presley while he was touring through Texas on a string of one-night stands. In that 1956 interview Elvis interestingly revealed that he was previously training to be an electrician, that his first movie would be The Rainmaker and that he did not know Bill Black or Scotty Moore before their Sun session.

In 1982 Elvis fan Scott Wheeler befriended and interviewed Jay Thompson about the experience. Although Jay never actively participated in Elvis-related events or productions in later years he also never sought notoriety for the interview either. However we believe it's important that Jay Thompson be well remembered for his valuable contribution to the history of Elvis.

Go here to our special Spotlight - plus Elvis' Wichita Falls Interview - by Scott Wheeler / Piers Beagley...
(Spotlight; Source;SW/ElvisInformationNetwork)

'Summer Festival 1970: The Rehearsals' In-Depth Review: MRS's new triple-CD set 'Summer Festival 1970: The Rehearsals' was released last month.
The CDs contain rehearsal highlights from one of the most memorable periods in Elvis’ career - his captivating performances at The International Hotel Las Vegas in the summer of 1970. With remastered audio and accompanying 40-page booklet the package is aimed at the general public, plus Elvis collectors who could not afford last year's FTD fan club deluxe release.
Elvis’ glorious rehearsals on 24 July at RCA studios are the real key to this release. Twenty seven classic performances and with Elvis not only rehearsing the familiar songs we would all come to know from the MGM movie but also songs he would never perform on stage.

EIN's Nigel Patterson and Piers Beagley check out this new collection and discover some neat surprises along the way.

(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

'Elvis Presley Recorded Live At The Fontainebleau' New CD: The Memphis Mansion label announces a brand new CD release, 'Elvis Presley Recorded Live At The Fontainebleau'.
This features 'The Frank Sinatra Timex Special with Elvis Presley, Sammy Davis, jr., Joey Bishop, Nancy Sinatra, Peter Lawford'.
Recorded 26th of March, 1960. Shown on television for the first time on the 12th of May, 1960.
For the first time ever, you will hear the show in a completely magical sound quality! Comes from a newly found acetate.
We guarantee that you have NEVER heard this show in this kind of HiFi quality!!
If you want to give yourself a blast of a new Elvis experience, you shouldn’t hesitate to buy this release!
Go here to Memphis Mansion to Pre-order and full tracklisting - €13.75.

(News, Source;MM/ElvisInfoNet)

(Interview): Joe Shooman (author of An A-Z of Elvis: Infrequently Asked Questions) talks to EIN: Joe Shooman’s new book is unlike any other Elvis book you’ve read. Its subject matter (presented in encyclopedic style) is offbeat and at times confronting, with amazing beliefs from the outer limits of the Elvis world.

In his interview with Nigel Patterson, Shooman notes, "I'm a journalist above all so I tend to dwell on things that are factual, but as a fan of Elvis I am also drawn toward the rich and wonderful theories that abound in pop culture...."

Join EIN to find out why the author chose such an unusual theme for the book and be intrigued as he reveals information that challenges our usual understanding of the Elvis story, such as British pop star, Tommy Steele, taking Elvis on a tour of London in 1958, the “elusive” Presley (Commission) Report, and Vernon Presley not being Elvis’ biological father.

(Interview, Source: ElvisInformationNetwork)

(Interview) Evangelos Proiou, President of the official Greek Elvis fan club talk to EIN: In the past year EIN has interviewed several Elvis fan club presidents from around the world (Jean-Marie Pouzenc - France and Carlos Ares – Argentina). 

In our latest interview, we talk with Evangelos Proiou. Evangelos, and his wife, Anna, have been running the Elvis Forever Fan Club of Greece for more than four decades.
Evangelos discusses a range of topics including Elvis’ most successful records and films in Greece, rare Greek releases, and promotion of Elvis in Greece.

Read Evangelos’ full interview

(Interview, Source:ElvisInformationNetwork)

Book Review 'An A-Z of Elvis': Joe Shooman’s new book 'An A-Z of Elvis... Infrequently Asked Questions' is an offbeat look at various parts of the Elvis story.
As the author notes, "This isn’t your bog-standard rehash of the same old Elvis tropes, instead we decided to look for the weird and wonderful…"

The A-Z entries are a diverse, eclectic collection, from the well-known to the weird and controversial. Each entry is afforded a paragraph or two up to a page of interesting text, with many of the entries complemented by impressive contemporary, hand drawn, artwork.

Our review discovers that at times, there is an almost punk sensibility in the narrative as author Joe Shooman dredges the darkest recesses of the multi-layered Elvis story and occasionally assaults the reader’s conception of Elvis Presley reality....

Go here as EIN's Nigel Patterson checks out this fascinating sounding publication.

(Book Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

Elvis 'Just Pretend': Need a quality blast of Elvis to get you to the weekend?
Check out this lovely High-Res YouTube clip of Elvis' classic Just Pretend.
Filmed at his Midnight show August 11th 1970.

How easy it is to forget that 'Just Pretend' was not included in the original 1970 TTWII theatrical release.

CLICK HERE to YouTube for 4 minutes of pure Elvis magic

(News, Source;RobV/ElvisInfoNet)

'The Best Use of Elvis Music in Recent Movies': In the first two decades after his untimely death it was rare to hear an Elvis song in a new feature film - and certainly not in a TV advert.
EPE / BMG seemed reluctant to licence Elvis' music which is strange considering the amount of sub-standard Elvis products they were pumping out to fans. But everything changed in 2002 with ‘ALLC' hitting number one all around the world .
So with Baz Luhrmann's ELVIS biopic in production it's a good time to revisit some of the best use of Elvis music in recent movies.
Film producers have discovered that using ELVIS in recent movie soundtracks can be a powerful and positive idea.
From the cartoon Lilo & Stitch to the blockbuster Blade Runner 2049 and the Elton John biopic Rocketman, the use of Elvis songs in the soundtrack can add that something special.
EIN lists Movie blog Screenrant's recently posted Top Ten and also adds EIN readers favourites.
Visit our EIN spotlight and also send us YOUR THOUGHTS on your favourite use of ELVIS in modern films.
(Spotlight, Source;SR/ElvisInformationNetwork)

'Elvis Day By Day 2020' Book Review: 2020 is a year none of us will forget. But as we all tried to adapt to a "new normal" the wonderful world of Elvis Presley provided a very fine distraction. 2020 brought us several great Elvis releases on CD and vinyl (lots of it!), many new books, movie releases on DVD, Blu-ray and in cinemas around the world. We had to say good-bye to friends from the Elvis world and there was the Covid-19 pandemic, which had a huge impact on the Elvis world too.

Everything Elvis Presley from 2020 is captured in this comprehensive, day-by-day yearbook. Fully illustrated, with new in-depth reviews, articles and interviews on the main - and odd-ball - releases of the year. The good, the bad, the funny and the sad, and even the news and reviews you may have missed. All packed in one comprehensive book to revisit 2020 as it happened.

The book is.. "Impeccably written, in an attractive and easy to read composition, it is peppered with facts accompanied by high quality B&W and color pictures. It demonstrates in detail that Elvis is still present and influential."
Go here to Elvis author Paul Belard's full review..
(Book Reviews, Source;PB/ElvisInfoNet)

'Elvis Week' Tickets On Sale Now: Elvis Week 2021 will mark the 44th anniversary of Elvis’ passing and Graceland is hoping for the gathering of thousands of Elvis fans and friends.
Taking place August 11-17, Elvis Week is an annual, multi-day gathering celebrating Elvis’ life and legacy. Hopefully CV19 restrictions will be sorted by mid-summer.
It has become a pop-culture phenomenon and an annual pilgrimage for music lovers from around the world.
Events include appearances by celebrities and musicians, live concerts, panel discussions, meet and greet opportunities, parties, fan events, the usual Elvis Impersonator / Tribute Artist Contests, special bus excursions around Memphis and to Tupelo, and much more.
Events and special tours will be held at the Mansion, the entertainment and exhibit complex, Elvis Presley’s Memphis, the Guest House at Graceland hotel, and the Graceland Exhibition Center, home to the Jungle Room Bar.
Tickets for all Elvis Week events are on sale now!
Go HERE to EPE for full schedule and Ticket info.
(News, Source;EPE/ElvisInfoNet)

ELVIS WEEK 2021 Schedule Announced: Graceland has just announced the Elvis Week 2021 schedule and we cannot wait to welcome fans back to Memphis in August for a celebration like no other!
It will be a great time to gather again with friends to celebrate the music, movies, and legacy of the King of Rock 'n' Roll. Elvis Week 2021 highlights include a 50th anniversary concert celebrating Elvis’ Nashville recording sessions, Blue Hawaii Luau, Ultimate ETA Contests and concerts, exclusive tours, first-time experiences, Elvis in concert on the big screen, and much more! An Elvis Week not-to-be-missed!
Tickets and Packages go on Sale Friday, February 12
Note - COVID-19 Protocols will be in place for all events. This includes the requirement of masks, temperature screenings, and socially distanced seating.

EIN Note: Many of the events are what were planned for Elvis Week 2020, let's hope the COVID-19 situation has calmed down by August.

The two Highlights for EIN would be ...
- Nashville Marathon Sessions 50th Anniversary Concert - August 13
Celebrate Elvis’ Nashville Marathon Sessions at Nashville’s Studio B in 1970 and 1971 with musicians James Burton, Norbert Putnam, David Briggs, and Charlie McCoy, who shared the studio with Elvis during these legendary recordings. Joined by vocalists Terry Mike Jeffrey and Dean Z, this concert will feature an unforgettable evening of music and storytelling. From fan favorites songs such as “Just Pretend” and “Bridge Over Troubled Water” to “I’ve Lost You” and “Stranger in the Crowd” – enjoy a very special night of Elvis music at the Graceland Soundstage.
- Elvis In Concert - August 16th
Celebrate the King of Rock 'n' Roll at Graceland during this live concert experience featuring amazing on-screen performances by Elvis himself, backed on stage by a live band with special guest appearances by TCB Band members guitarist James Burton and piano player Glen Hardin, plus Terry Blackwood and The Imperials. A not-to-be-missed concert event!
- ‘Down In The Jungle Room’ – is once again a special Event at $750 per ticket!
Only 10 tours available on each date; Limited to two tours per purchaser.
- Also this year ‘Hidden Graceland Tours’ yours for only $500!
Only 10 tours available on each date; Limited to two tours per purchaser.
Go HERE to EPE for full schedule and Ticket info.

(News, Source;EPE/ElvisInfoNet)

(Interview) Brandon Yip (author of Elvis Presley “All Shook Up” in Canada): Elvis only performed outside the USA on five occasions – all shows in Canada in 1957. Canadian born and bred writer and author, Brandon Yip, formed an obsession about Elvis’ Canadian concerts.
Dissatisfied with the information he had read about the shows, particularly Elvis’ final Canadian performance in Vancouver, Brandon went in search of more information, tracking down and interviewing people who were lucky enough to see Elvis “live” in Canada.

The result of his research is his new book, Elvis Presley “All Shook Up” in Canada. It includes first-hand accounts by fans and legendary Canadian radio DJ, Red Robinson.

Brandon recently took time out to talk with EIN’s Nigel Patterson about his book and what he found.

Read the full interview here

(Interview, Source: ElvisInformationNetwork)

Tony Plews - 'Walk A Lonely Street' - INTERVIEW: Recently published author Tony Plews' 'Walk A Lonely Street: Elvis Country Music & The True Story of Heartbreak Hotel' is a unique volume that tells the tale of Elvis Presley’s rise to fame as viewed through the lens of his era-defining first hit record, “Heartbreak Hotel”.
The book, Walk A Lonely Street, spans over one hundred years and involves scores of singers and their songs, it uncovers the truth, placing events in context, and revealing the astonishing depth of Presley’s artistic vision and achievements.
It is unlike any Elvis book that you will have read before.
EIN wanted to know some answers such as.....
- Part biography, part investigation, part reference and part thriller, how did he come up with the concept
- Why does a book about "Heartbreak Hotel" start in 1865
- How did he find connections to Mae Boren Axton, Tommy Durden and even Delta Pinney (who shot that lonely man) and what did they think when he came calling?
EIN's Piers Beagley interviewed author Tony Plews to find out how he came up with such an incredible concept for his first book - and what discoveries he made along the way...
(Interviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

(Book Review) Inventing Elvis – An American Icon in a Cold War World (Mathias Haeussler): The latest academic examination of the Elvis Presley story explores his relationship in the context of a rising trans-national youth culture and Cold War politics. Assistant Professor Mathias Haeussler has written a powerful account of how Elvis’ role in each of the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s was an evolutionary one, reflecting the broader socio-cultural and political changes of each decade.
The subject matter is diverse, ranging from Elvis’ image as a threat to the morals of youth in the 1950s (in a sense mirroring the threat of communism), to the cultural imperialism reflected his 1960s movies (while American culture and political influence was spreading globally), and Elvis’ decline in the 1970s (at a time when America was reeling from its own excesses including the disastrous Vietnam War).

Read EIN Nigel Patterson's in-depth review

(Book Review, Source: ElvisInformationNetwork)

(Book Review) Elvis@Argentina 1963-1969 (Carlos Ares): The second volume in Carlos Ares’ series of “coffee table” books detailing Elvis’ reception in Argentina is another high quality production. With a great balance between informative text, colorful images and impressive archival artefacts, it is a worthy inclusion in any fan’s Elvis library.

It is available in English and Spanish text editions.

Read EIN Nigel Patterson’s detailed review

(Book Review, Source:ElvisInfoNetwork)

'Walk A Lonely Street' Book Review: Recently published Tony Plews, 'Walk A Lonely Street: Elvis Presley, Country Music & The True Story of Heartbreak Hotel' is a unique volume that tells the tale of Elvis Presley’s rise to fame as viewed through the lens of his era-defining first hit record, “Heartbreak Hotel”. Presented as a series of consecutive short stories, it offers a new perspective on Presley’s musical and cultural achievements, and reveals the true and dramatic saga behind the breakthrough song that changed the world.
In EIN Piers Beagley's detailed review he discovers that.. the true joy of this book is Tony Plews’ delightful and engaging writing style. His detailed research and his mix of facts and imagination blend together to create an emotional narrative that really draws the reader in. At times he also adds a nice British, somewhat droll, sense of humour that can make you laugh out loud. A totally enthralling musical journey, Tony Plews writes with a truly engaging, colourful and passionate style. If your love of Elvis is based upon his amazing musical legacy then this is the book for you....
Go here to EIN's 'Walk A Lonely Street' in-depth review
Coming Wednesday.. EIN interviews author Tony Plews
(Book Review, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

(Book Review) 'Technicolor to Black & White' (Jean-Marie Pouzenc): The latest ‘coffee table” multi-media” (book, CD and 10” vinyl) set from Jean-Marie Pouzenc continues his history of producing fan pleasing, high quality, releases!
Focusing on Elvis’ film career in France it is a wonderfully expressive record of its subject and offers a neatly balanced package between its narrative, visual, archival and audio elements.

Elvis didn’t incarnate almost supernatural heroes, he was you and he was all of us. He played an everyday guy, an ordinary character with a job....(Jean-Marie Pouzenc)

Read EIN’s detailed review by Nigel Patterson

(Book Review, Source: ElvisInformationNetwork)

(Book Review) From Elvis in Memphis (Eric Wolfson): The 150th volume in the popular Bloomsbury Academic 33 1/3 series of music history and criticism books is Eric Wolfson’s From Elvis in Memphis (due out on 12 November).
EIN’s Nigel Patterson recently sat down and submerged himself in what is the first (and long overdue) extensive examination of any Elvis album.
What Nigel found was a deeply considered, strongly written, and thought provoking analysis of what many regard as Elvis’ finest album.

.. "In 1968, Elvis Presley was worse than dead – he was irrelevant. After helping to establish rock and roll as a cultural force and becoming its biggest star in the 1950s, he now found himself eclipsed by the music. New artists like the Beatles and Bob Dylan blew the mid-1960’s rock landscape wide open.. Elvis, once the epitome of the young and exciting rock and roll star, had become old and stale.
From the moment that From Elvis in Memphis begins with a rock and roll Odysseus returning home after “a little while”, the album refuses to settle. Over the course of the record, people drive eight-wheel locomotives, ride in long black limousines, and soar like beautiful birds...."

Read Nigel’s detailed 3,000+ words review of From Elvis in Memphis

(Book Review, Source:ElvisInformationNetwork)

Jean-Marie Pouzenc Interview: Jean-Marie Pouzenc is one of Europe's most well-known identities in the Elvis fan world. He is the founder and long-time president of the celebrated Elvis My Happiness fan club and publishes one of the best Elvis magazines in the world.
Jean-Marie has also written a number of acclaimed Elvis books including his latest coffee table release, Elvis Technicolor in Black & White.
In this fascinating interview Jean-Marie Pouzenc, now 77 years old, discusses...
- How and when he became an Elvis fan
- What changes he has noticed in the Elvis world since 1956
- Elvis' popularity in France
- His new publication 'Elvis Technicolor in Black & White'
- Elvis in Paris
. . . . and much, much more

Go here - EIN's Nigel Patterson ask the questions

(Interviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

‘TTWII 50th Anniversary Collectors Edition’ FTD Book Review: FTD's most expensive set ever published, David English and Pal Granlund bring the complete background story of 'Elvis: That's The Way It Is'. Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the movie's 1970 release, this ultimate collector's edition includes two hardback books, eight cds with over 450 minutes of music, including newly discovered unreleased performances.
With access to 2,000 original negatives and 35mm slides, restored and repaired, many of which have never been seen before, the book also contains items from the MGM and RCA archives including paperwork, documents, memos and recording information.
Two books, 600 pages, plus all the MGM recorded rehearsals - including 70 tracks officially unreleased.
FTD's most expensive set but with the vast majority of the rehearsals already out on bootleg, can it really be worth the US$270 plus postage. Initially Sold Out and already into its first reprint what makes it so desirable?
EIN's Piers Beagley investigates and discovers plenty .. Go here to our 6000 word review including plenty of extracts and stunning images.
(FTD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

'What was Elvis searching for?' EIN Spotlight: The question is raised – but never answered – in the title of HBO’s recent absorbing, imperfect documentary 'Elvis Presley: The Searcher'.
At the start it seems clear what the teenage Elvis was searching for – an escape from the oblivion of poverty in the American South. Yet his quest was cultural as well as financial.
Later Elvis read obsessively, seeking out such books as The Impersonal Life, Joseph Brenner’s guide to self-discovery and Kahil Gibran’s book of fables, The Prophet. In his copy of Gibran’s tome, Elvis jotted down the line: “A singer can sing his songs but he must have an ear to receive the song”.
So what exactly was Elvis searching for? In this fascinating EIN Spotlight respected author Paul Simpson takes a close look at this all important question which, for some reason, was basically ignored in the recent HBO documentary..

(Spotlight, Source;PaulSimpson/ElvisInformationNetwork)