Welcome to the "Elvis Information Network", home to the best news, reviews, interviews, Elvis photos & in-depth articles about the King of Rock & Roll, Elvis Aaron Presley...
'Elvis News Report July 2024': Elvis super-fan Emiel Maier presents all the recent news including...... Details about the upcoming ‘Elvis Memphis’ 5-CD box set, Baz Luhrmann’s
Elvis concert film is going to happen, Title and cover photo of Lisa’s
book, a closer look at FTD’s new ‘Celluloid Sell Out’ book, Terminal Fan
is granted a trip to Graceland - and much, much more ....
'Las Vegas: On Stage Feb 1973' MRS CD Review: The new MRS 4CD Deluxe-set contains three performances recorded in February 1973, during Elvis’ eighth engagement in Las Vegas.
The Las Vegas shows took place weeks after the historic satellite TV show, Aloha From Hawaii, was filmed and broadcast on 14 January.
All shows are presented in stereo for the first time ever.
All shows are presented in stereo for the first time ever.
A bonus CD of remastered rehearsal tracks that were recorded the day before Opening night is also included.
The accompanying booklet includes rare photographs, memorabilia and liner notes which set the scene.
... This latest release from the Memphis Recording Service is an interesting one and manages to shed new light on the post-Aloha Elvis Las Vegas season that many fans have largely dismissed.
Elvis' Blue Suede Shoes up for Auction: Elvis Presley’s original blue suede shoes that the late singer rocked on stage and TV are set to be auctioned Friday June 28.
Bidding on the iconic pair of shoes will open at $70,000 with the footwear estimated to fetch over US$130,000 according to auction house Henry Aldridge and Son in Wiltshire, England.
Presley wore the shoes during the 1950s both onstage and offstage, according to the auction house. Each shoe is stamped "Nunn-Bush" on the heel, and a stamp indicating the 10.5 shoe size is on the inside.
Elvis sang “I Want You, I Need You, I Love You” and "Hound Dog" on NBC's Steve Allen show wearing the Blue Suede Shoes.
The "Blue Suede Shoes" singer even mentioned wearing the pair on show on July 1, 1956, and again during a comedy skit with Andy Griffith during the show.
Three documents illustrating the history of the iconic memorabilia come with the shoes, including
an Elvis Presley Museum letter of authenticity signed by Jimmy Velvet.
A third document is a letter from Alan Fortas, another close friend of Presley’s who worked as a ranch foreman at Presley’s Circle G Ranch.
In the letter, Fortas describes how Elvis gifted him the famous shoes before the singer left for the Army in 1958. "The night before Elvis' army induction here in Memphis, Elvis had an all-night party at Graceland. Afterwards we went to the Rainbow roller rink. When we all got home Elvis called some of us upstairs and was giving away some of his clothes he didn't think he would be wearing or wanted when he came back from the army. That night Elvis gave me these blue suede shoes size 10 1/2. I've owned these all these years."
Go here to bid! (News, Source;SanjaM/ElvisInfoNet)
June 26, 1977, Elvis Presley’s Final Concert: June 26th 2024 marks the 47th anniversary of the last ever concert of the King of Rock n’ Roll in 1977. Obviously unplanned, the journey of this legendary artist ends on a whim, with his manager still lining up yet more tours for his worn-out artist.
Collapsing at home after a few weeks rest, Elvis died of heart failure from a cardiovascular disease the day before his scheduled next concert in Portland, Maine. With his tragic death announced on August 16th, 1977 people all around the world, including mass media and communication groups, wept as they reminisced of Elvis Presley’s memories outside Baptist Memorial hospital and Graceland Mansion that night.
In Europe, two radio stations
immediately ceased their regular on-air programs the instance Presley’s death was announced. Radio Luxembourg, with the largest audience in Europe, cancelled their commercials just to play his music non-stop. His Graceland mansion was then for the first time opened to the public for the viewing of his body lying-in-state and an estimate of 50,000 to 100,000 people appear to pay their respects to him.
Although life held such a tragic, ill-fated end to his all-too-short career, Elvis' final concert in Indianapolis, Indiana performed to 18 thousand of
his loving fans was one of his best in months.
After the support acts had warmed up the crowd Elvis exploded on stage to Also Sprach Zarathustra, followed by a punchy See See Rider. While obviously not up to the energy of his earlier 70's performances the set-list featured some nice treats for his ever-loving fans such as Fairytale, It’s Now or Never and Little Sister. A rare Please Release Me was performed plus favourites like I Can’t Stop Loving You and an emotional Bridge Over Troubled Water - sung for the first time in over a month.
During the band introductions Elvis added Early Morning Rain and I Really Don’t Want to Know, before the high power of his more recent single Hurt.
Afterwards Elvis' four minute monologue is emotional as he introduces his father, girlfriend Ginger and all the staff who
have helped him on this (final) tour. Truly heart-breaking is hearing Elvis saying, "If you want to hear us again, we'll be back". Sadly that would never happen.
Closing with the poignant, Can’t Help Falling In Love', leaving the stage he adds, “Until we meet again, God Bless, Adios.”
As Elvis sings in the last song he will ever perform, "Like a river flows, surely to the sea, Darling, so it goes, Some things are meant to be", there is no doubt that Elvis died way too young yet we are all blessed that he left behind such a stunning contribution to the entertainment industry as well as his positive influence on pop culture.
Countless artists and companies continue to revive his legacy by updating his legend and remixing his music, but in the end everything goes back to the originality and power of ELVIS. Elvis Presley may have left the building, but his legacy will never fade away as long as there are new people who
appreciate his art.
The Market Square Arena in Indianapolis was demolished in 2001 but a Memorial to Elvis commemorates that there was once a great artist who performed his finale-on-earth in that very sacred place. (News, Source:GavinOak/PB/ElvisInfoNet)
'New Script, Same Stage' Import Vinyl: With the same tracklisting as the previously announced CD set (see news below) Millbranch Music announces a double LP set with an extra 20-page booklet and printed innersleeves!
We at Millbranch wanted to create an album that does justice to the recordings made at the beginning of 1972.
With this impressive LP set featuring original photos coming directly from the negatives (almost perfect for framing!), we want to pay tribute to that turbulent time of the recording sessions where Elvis presented his new show in Las Vegas in January and February with a lot of new songs in his setlist and turned his feelings into music at Hollywood´s RCA Studio C, given the fact that his marriage was falling apart at the time. The result was a very emotional output of music as only Elvis was able to create because he had put his whole heart and feelings into the recordings.
We strongly believe that the songs on our new release fit together very well! Hear Elvis at his best at the early stage of 1972 and get your copy of our very limited Millbranch vinyl release!
Out August 16 See 'All The CD News 2024' for tracklistings (News, Source;MM/ElvisInfoNet)
'Back In LA' Import Vinyl: Millbranch Music continues its ultra-high quality vinyl releases, 'Back In L.A' is a 2-LP set with an extra 20-page booklet and printed innersleeves, containing the legendary evening show at the Forum in Los Angeles, California from May 11, 1974!
Elvis’ 1974 LA concert, with Led Zeppelin in the audience, has seen quite a few releases over the past 10+ years, starting with ‘Live in LA’ on the FTD label in 2011. Unfortunately the tape ran too slow on this release. Subsequent releases under various labels did not fully resolve the quality issues, as they were sourced from a “Low Noise” Audio cassette containing a copy of an original reel-to-reel tape.
Thanks to the late Edwin Meijers, a pivotal figure in the 1980s with close ties to Colonel Parker - who at the time needed funds for legal battles - we were able to obtain the original tape. Meijers relationship with Parker facilitated the acquisition of several unique, authentic recordings, now cherished by collectors.
This release includes a 20-page booklet detailing “Elvis Back in LA” and a bonus section with performances from 1956, 1970, and 1974. We know you will enjoy this great show, which still gets “A Whole Lotta Love” from the members of Led Zeppelin fifty years later! Out August 16 See 'All The CD News 2024' for tracklistings & full details (News, Source;MM/ElvisInfoNet)
Monday 24 June 2024
'ELVIS: MEMPHIS': The 5CD box-set is the first fully comprehensive collection of Elvis Presley’s hometown recordings.
Over 111 tracks ‘MEMPHIS’ captures Presley from his earliest sessions at Sun Studio to his final recordings in Graceland’s Jungle Room. Along the way, the Bluff City serves as both home and muse to Presley, playing a pivotal role in the dramatic arc of his artistry as he finds creative rebirth at American Sound in 1969, overcomes personal struggles at Stax in 1973, and brings his most extravagant and spellbinding live show to the Mid-South Coliseum in 1974.
Produced by Ernst Jørgensen with rare material and new liner notes by GRAMMY-winning music historian Robert Gordon, ‘MEMPHIS’ (released in 5CD, 2LP plus digital) gives fresh insight into the bond between Elvis and his eternal home.
From the very first notes of ‘MEMPHIS’ the city’s immense influence on Elvis is clear. At Sun Studio he channeled a heady mix of Beale Street blues, the sounds of Dewey Phillips’ “Red, Hot & Blue” show WHBQ, and the all-night gospel performances he attended at nearby Ellis Auditorium. That distinctly Memphis blend would result in a singular, defining moment in the development of rock n roll.
When Elvis returned to recording in Memphis in 1969, nearly fifteen years later, he sensed a different pulse in the city. Teaming up with legendary producer Chips Moman at American Sound Studio, far from the glitz of Hollywood or the gloss of Nashville, Elvis sought out songs that reflected a more gimlet-eyed worldview, and put down some of the greatest performances of his career. Yielding indelible hits like “In The Ghetto” and “Suspicious Minds,” these sessions heralded an earthier sound - and an astonishing comeback for Presley.
With the exception of the Sun recordings, all tracks on ‘MEMPHIS’ were newly mixed by GRAMMY-winner Matt Ross-Spang at Southern Grooves Memphis, with overdubs stripped away - to reveal only what Elvis heard live in the studio.(Please Watch this great video>>)
With this intimacy, new revelations abound - from Elvis’ intuitive chemistry with “The Memphis Boys” at American, to the subtle way he builds his vocal phrasing around his backing singers at Stax or the palpable joy he brings to his final sessions in the Jungle Room. Through it all, the listener is standing next to Elvis - hearing exactly what he is hearing.
The STAX sessions of 1973 came during a tumultuous time in Elvis’ personal life. As he wrestled with the dissolution of his marriage and personal demons, the frenetic energy of his day-to-day life came through in the performances. On songs like “Promised Land” that energy radiates, while other selections like Tony Joe White’s “For Ol’ Times Sake” grapple with loneliness in the face of fresh heartbreak. Presley returned to Stax in December of that year revitalized, clearly connecting to material like “I Got A Feeling In My Body” and “Loving Arms” with a familiarly-electric charisma.
In 1974 Elvis was back home On-Stage with a full orchestra and more than 20 musicians accompanying him. Here, he performed songs by many early rock & roll legends - including Jerry Lee Lewis, Lloyd Price, Little Richard and Fats Domino - and also delivered a GRAMMY-winning rendition of “How Great Thou Art.” “It’s always been said that a person cannot return to their hometown,” Elvis says towards the end of the show. “But you have disproven that theory completely.”
Recording his final songs using RCA’s mobile rig at Graceland in 1976, Elvis sings with a passion that defies his poor health.
These stripped recordings strike an emotional chord as he interacts beautifully with his backing vocalists on “Danny Boy” or finds a deep pocket on the swinging “For The Heart.”
In 1960 when asked what he missed about his hometown on his way back from the army, a 25-year-old Elvis answered: “Everything. I mean that - everything.”
OUT August 9. You can now pre-order at Amazon for $71. (News, Source;SONY/ElvisInfoNet)
Polk Salad Annie: As part of the MEMPHIS set Matt Ross-Spang has remixed the audio for Elvis' live 1974 Memphis performance.
Super-fan Johnny-2523 has posted a fabulous video using footage from both TTWII and 'On Tour' to showcase the newly remixed audio by Matt-Ross Spang.
Well-worth watching..
(News, Source;ELVISDINNERSHOW2020)
“Elvis Presley Bootleg Discography A - R” New Book: Author Marco Durzu has now published his fourth book “Elvis Presley Bootleg Discography A - R”.
This 550 page book is dedicated to 'Elvis Presley Bootleg Discography (alphabet letters from A to R)'. The book lists all Elvis' bootleg releases (from "alternative" record companies to the official ones) and their catalogs relating to their audio releases of Elvis Presley's music.
This is the sequel to Durzu's previous Elvis' books, “Elvis Presley Concerts and Rehearsals from 1944 to 1977” (2023), “Elvis Presley Songs” (2024) and “Canzoni di Elvis Presley” (2024).
The book features each Elvis Presley's bootleg discography label for a total of 232 labels and 1008 titles.
At the end of the book there is a Guide to listening to Analog/ Digital Music, which illustrates the fundamental theoretical concepts for listening to it, the digital formats used (WAVE, FLAC, DSD, DXD) in their most updated forms in order to listen to the music with the highest possible quality.
In the end I want to thank, with my heart and soul, Elvis Presley, for the unique talent he was able to express through his music, which gives me and many other people and will always give pure joy and happiness.
The book is published in the Apple Book Store, on the Google Play Store and on Amazon Kindle (paperback or hard cover)
Check Amazon here Paperback or Hardcover (News, Source;Marco Durzu/EIN)
Upcoming book - Rethinking Elvis (Mark Duffett): Now rescheduled for publication on October 28, the cover for the latest academic examination of Elvis has been released.
Edited by Mark Duffett, Associate Professor Communication Screen & Performance at the University of Chester in England, the book contains 384 pages and will be available in both hard and soft cover formats. The book is now available to pre-order from Amazon sites.
It is published by Oxford University Press and is described as:
"Decades after his passing, Elvis Presley remains one of popular music's greatest icons. He was among the most successful, influential, socially significant, and controversial performers of the twentieth century, with a celebrity so indelible that every recent American president has negotiated its orbit. While much of the coverage of Elvis' life concerns his personal history and musical ability, Rethinking Elvis pushes beyond the familiar to address Elvis' branding, historical and geographic reception, heritage, and fan phenomenon. Using Elvis' iconography as a point of departure, popular music scholars and historians contend with issues related to the performer's whiteness, Southern identity, and gender, among others, in turn offering myriad opportunities to pursue new approaches in the emergent field of Elvis studies."
Elvis Week 2024 More Guests: EPE have announced some new special guests for this year's Elvis Week. They include Norbert Putnam, Bass player at numerous Elvis recording sessions including Nashville in 1970, Stax and in the Jungle Room at Graceland.
- at Elvis: Back in Memphis, Aug 13 Jim Murray, Former member of The Imperials who performed both on-stage and in the studio with Elvis.
- Elvis: Return to Vegas, Aug 16 & Elvis: Behind the Music, Aug 17 Mike Moran, RCA recording engineer on several Elvis albums including STAX sessions and Jungle Room sessions.
- Elvis: Behind the Music Aug 17 Ron Strauss, Co-pilot for Elvis’ Lisa Marie airplane.
- Conversations on Elvis, Aug 15 Robert Gordon, Grammy-winning music historian who wrote the liner notes for the newly announced Elvis release MEMPHIS.
- Elvis: Behind the Music, Aug 17
Other guests already announced are Linda Thompson, Sam Thompson, Shirley Dieu (Joe Esposito's girlfriend), Jerome Stump Monroe (drummer for Sweet Inspirations) and Larry Geller.
Once again there is no sign of Priscilla being present at Elvis Week. Linda Thompson is again playing the major role
Go here to EPE for full schedule & tickets (News, Source;EPE/ElvisInfoNet)
'Virtual Elvis Week 2024': Once again EPE has announced Virtual Elvis Week 2024 "bringing all the excitement of Elvis Week right to your home".
A chance to see the LIVE concerts, tribute contests, and panel discussions that make Elvis Week the best week of the year for Elvis fans round the world.
Once again every event is rewatchable for 10 days after its conclusion. Relive your favorite moments again and again.
Three options... The Elvis Fan Pass $130 - With access to the 4 marquee Elvis Week Soundstage events happening on August 13-16.
List includes access to watch:
Elvis: Back in Memphis (Aug 13)
Elvis Fan Choice Awards (Aug 14)
Conversations on Elvis (Aug 15)
Elvis: Return to Vegas (Aug 16) The Elvis TRIBUTE artist pass S130 - gives you access to watch 5 marquee Elvis TRIBUTE artist soundstage shows, including the two rounds of Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist competition, The Elvis Super Fan Pass $225 - the biggest experience see Elvis Week 2024 like a Virtual VIP, all nine Soundstage events plus a virtual tour of Graceland Mansion and a "show & tell" with Graceland Archives Angie Marchese.
For tickets and full info see Virtual Elvis Week (News, Source;EPE/ElvisInfoNet)
'For LP Fans Only / A Date with Elvis - Mono II Stereo' OUT NOW: From the french RDM label - Two classic albums, for the first time in stereo.
'For LP Fans Only' released in February 1959, brought together songs previously released on 45rpm or on EPs, such as the classics 'That's All Right', 'Lawdy Miss Clawdy', 'Mystery Train' or the song 'Poor Boy' from the soundtrack of the film 'Love Me Tender'.
'A Date with Elvis' was released in July 1959 based on the same principle of compiling previously published 45rpm or 'Extended Play' songs from Elvis' past. It contained other Elvis classics such as 'Blue Moon of Kentucky' and 'Good Rockin' Tonight' plus 'Baby, I Don't Care' and the haunting 'Is It So Strange'.
The stereo mixes on this CD, are the latest in our series of Mono-to-Stereo reissues created by producer Anthony Stuchbury, are authentic to original Mono releases but now sound more like the original studio sessions.
Fans can re-discover these 20 classic Elvis songs as if they were mixed in stereo for their initial release. OUT NOW
'My Time with Priscilla and Lisa Marie Presley' (Mike Stone): Set for release on Amazon in August is a new book by Mike Stone. For those who don't recognise his name he was in a relationship with Priscilla Presley for a number of years from 1972 and was a key figure in the emotional roller-coaster that described Elvis and Priscilla’s lives in the seventies. The author describes his book as:
... Setting the Record Straight: The idea of writing this book has existed for a long time. I write it now with clarity, wisdom, and a clear conscience.
The world has been subjected to untrue sensationalism through the media, gossip shows, and thousands of tabloids for over fifty years. I am telling the truth about my time with Priscilla and Lisa Marie Presley. Although our time together was brief, it was filled with love, joy, and happiness.
It only fits that Priscilla and I can set the record straight. I’ve heard that Priscilla has already stated her position on our relationship. For those looking to read trash-talk, name-calling, and accusations, save your money. Haters will find some satisfaction in my stories about the stupid, petty, childish attitudes I demonstrated occasionally. Some people would love for me to find fault with Priscilla or Lisa Marie, but I can’t do it. They were both a joy to be around. What could I possibly say that was negative, disrespectful, or untrue about a beautiful woman who only wanted to create a life of her choosing? What could I say negatively about the loving, pretty, innocent 6-year-old gem that was Lisa Marie?Nothing. If you look closely at the photo of how Lisa and I looked at each other, it’s obvious how we felt about each other.
The only issues I had were never with Priscilla or Lisa Marie but with my naïve ignorance. I had an instinctive dislike for the stupid attitude and mentally bankrupt Hollywood insiders who saw Priscilla as prey. I feared that, in her vulnerable condition, she might jump from the frying pan into the fire. History has a way of repeating itself.
Priscilla is free to choose any lifestyle, but I cautioned her of the consequences of her choices. The past fifty years have revealed the harsh reality, cruelties, and challenges of life with significant loss and sadness. Everyone has the right to choose how they prefer to live. My spirit agreed never to interfere with my choices. Who am I to question anyone else’s choice of how to live? We must allow each soul to walk its chosen path, even if that soul decides to end its own life. Ever notice that the Creator never interferes with a soul who chooses to end its earthly experiences?
I have written about my time with Priscilla and Lisa Marie, remembering the beautiful times and joys we shared. I was truly blessed.
I encourage you to read about these experiences. They are meant to reveal, motivate, and inspire you to remember the wonderful times you shared with loved ones and friends. EIN interviewed Mike Stone in 2021: read the interview here (News, Source: Elvis Day By Day; EIN)
Hawaii Coco Palms Redevelopment Begins: After decades of indecision Kauai's Coco Palms Resort redevelopment has started.
Coco Palms Resort was once host to celebrities such as Elvis, Rita Hayworth and Frank Sinatra - it featured in Elvis' movie Blue Hawaii, but never reopened after Hurricane Iniki struck the island in 1992.
Now, more than 30 years later, the property is being demolished — and revived.
The developer, Reef Capital Partners, has just announced a partnership with IHG Hotels & Resorts.
The property is expected to reopen as Coco Palms, a Kimpton Resort (part of the IHG brand) in 2026.
The resort will have 350 units spread across three low-rise hotel structures and cottages. Amenities will include three outdoor pools, a spa, rooftop bar, pool bar, shoreline restaurant, and 15-acre coconut grove.
The resort’s location is culturally significant for native Hawaiians, and developers plan to preserve historical features and build an on-site cultural center and museum
honoring Kauai, with exhibits, lectures, and activities to educate both visitors and residents. In 2015 EIN's Sanja Meegin checked out the Coco Palms resort in the fascinating EIN Spotlight (News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
PJ Harvey and Elvis: English singer-songwriter PJ Harvey has released ten studio albums and sold over 2 million records - she is also a big Elvis fan and has stated that she meditates on his songs.
She even created a fictional character who was inspired by Elvis’ “Love Me Tender" and had said that she could lose herself in Elvis Presley’s songs..
In a Rolling Stone interview Harvey discussed her book-length poem Orlam which featured a character named "Wyman-Elvis" who performs 'Love Me Tender'.
She explained, “Well, I loved Elvis, as a lot of children of my era did, and I still love Elvis. I love everything about him. I could lose myself in that voice, but not only that, the way he looked as well. He is almost a godlike figure in Orlam.“
She has not covered one of Elvis songs but added,"I do meditate on Elvis songs to myself. I very often play his work at the piano.”
Her recent 2023 album 'I Inside the Old Year Dying' featured a hypnotic track 'Lwonesome Nights' where fan have noted, there is an underlying theme of salvation through either God or music but here, this salvation comes through Elvis Presley.
Harvey discussed the double meanings on this track: “With poetry, you can make the language work really hard for you: Often words carry double, sometimes triple meanings. You’ve got things like Elvis, who was also known as “The King,” appearing on Maundy Day, which is a religious festival celebrating the last supper.
So, we’ve got Christ, we’ve got Elvis, we’ve got a king — do you see what I mean?
It can mean a lot of things, depending on what the reader or the listener wants to pull out of it and make theirs."
Of the track 'A Child’s Question, August' Harvey commented, “Its lyrical starting point came from Samuel Taylor Coleridge. In my song, we look to the universe for answers amidst the bittersweet melancholy of the fading summer. .. the sound world we inhabit: mysterious and magical. The answer that comes is ultimately one of positivity and love presiding, never voiced more powerfully than by the great Elvis Presley.”
The themes of Elvis’ 'Love Me Tender', permeate throughout the record acting as her anchor to espouse a love moving forward.
PJ Harvey has won two Mercury Prizes and received eight Brit Award and Grammy Award nominations. In the 2013 she was appointed a "Member of the Order of the British Empire" (MBE) for services to music. (News, Source;msn/ElvisInfoNet)
Monday 17 June 2024
'Elvis MEMPHIS' CD / VINYL: It is good to see plenty of publicity has been hitting social media and the music press over the new ELVIS MEMPHIS 2024 set.
Sony Music Entertainment has announced the release of 'MEMPHIS' an extensive collection of Elvis Presley's hometown recordings. This definitive and fully comprehensive compilation contains over 111 tracks, showcasing Presley from his earliest sessions at Sun Studio - which occurred 70 years ago this summer - to his final recordings in Graceland's Jungle Room. ‘MEMPHIS’ will be released in 5CD, 2LP and digital configurations, giving fresh insight into the bond between Elvis and his eternal home.
'Elvis Week 2024' Memphis events: With the upcoming release of the 2024 ELVIS MEMPHIS set there are two new events that focus on this great release.
and how cool to actually do them in "Memphis"!
- Sony MEMPHIS Listening Party
August 14. 2pm - Guest House Theater
In celebration of the release, fans can attend a MEMPHIS Q&A and Listening Party with Sony during Elvis Week 2024.
More details and special guests to be announced for this event.
Last year, producers Ernst Jørgensen / Roger Semon and recording engineer Matt Ross-Spang were there to talk about the upgraded Aloha release so it would be no surprise if they are also in attendance this year.
This event is free, but you must reserve a ticket to attend.
-Elvis: Back In Memphis Concert
August 13. 7pm - Graceland Soundstage
Celebrate the incredible music that emerged from Elvis’ recording sessions at Memphis’ hometown studios in this special Elvis Week concert! From historic recordings that kickstarted Elvis’ career at Sun to
the soulful sounds of American Sound, Stax, and his intimate sessions in the Jungle Room at Graceland, take a journey through some of Elvis’ most beloved music.
Hosted by Andy Childs alongside vocalists Terry Mike Jeffrey and Pat Dunn, joining them will be the musicians and vocalists who were part of these legendary recording sessions to share their memories.
Scheduled to appear are from American Sound drummer Gene Chrisman and vocalist Donna (Rhodes) Morris; and from the Jungle Room Sessions, Larry Strickland; with more guests to be announced as they are confirmed.
Go here to EPE Elvis Week schedule to get your tickets (News, Source;EPE/ElvisInfoNet)
Matt Shepherd's 'Golden Years' with Elvis Mono <> Stereo Exclusive: BBC's Matt Shepherd has written three books on Elvis and appeared on 24 BBC radio stations talking about Elvis.
His "Golden Years" on-line shows are very popular and this week his Golden Years Show includes yet another Elvis WORLD EXCLUSIVE!
Special guest Anthony Stuchbury, producer of the Elvis Mono II Stereo series, and designer David Parker discuss their recent work and play three exclusive tracks from this brand new RDM Edition. There's also a triple treat from
Roy Orbison, a US mini chart countdown from October 1958, plus hits
from Matt Monro, The Small Faces and The Kinks. GO HERE TO LISTEN on MixCloud
The great days are back again!!
Elvis The Complete Movie Masters 1960-62 (MRS): EIN recently published a review of this 4CD release from the MRS organisation.
The set was also reviewed in the June/July 2024 edition of the excellent British magazine, Vintage Rock.
The review gave the release 4 out of 5 stars, and included: Kicking off with GI Blues, upbeat opener Tonight Is So Right For Love and the finger-snapping What's She Really Like impress, while the undoubted rockin' highlight is a revisited Blue Suede Shoes. I Slipped, I Stumbled, I Fell brings some much-needed swagger in amongst the plethora of soundtrack ballads before the Blue Hawaii album ups the quality - there's a delicious kitsch vibe instantly to the island's golden shores.
For the completists, alternate takes of six of the seven featured soundtrack albums appear on the final two discs. While there are few radical changes, it fills out the picture of Elvis refining arrangements in the recording studio at a time when his production line was in full swing.
Elvis The Complete Movie Masters 1960-62 is available now from major Elvis dealers online and record stores in Britain.
Also in the June-July edition is a 10-page feature article, From Elvis in Memphis and 5-page article, Hitting the Jackpot (Elvis and Ann-Margret in Viva Las Vegas). (News, Source: Vintage Rock, Anthem Publishing) - go here to Vintage Rock to order the magazine
'New Script, Same Stage' New Import CD: Millbranch Music is back and focus their attention to Elvis´ music of the first 3 months of the year 1972! “New Script, Same Stage” is a CD in a deluxe 2-panel Digi-Pack - a new compilation of the nest on 1972. For the part with the songs from the Opening show of Jan 26, 1972, we even had the opportunity to work with the original binaural tape for sound quality never heard before! (EIN Note- But the show was recorded on a mono cassette! wtf?)
RCA had made significant investments to record during the winter season in Las Vegas, where Elvis presented his completely new show - a no-nonsense show with more drama, more music, and less interaction with the audience. In March at RCA Studio C new songs were recorded. These songs became some of the most iconic Elvis songs, including “Burning Love,” “Always on My Mind,” and “Fool”. Unfortunately the songs mostly came out on budget LPs and in 1973 on the album “Elvis”.
We strongly believe that the songs on his new CD fit together very well! Hear Elvis at
at his best at the early stage of 1972 - get your copy from your local Elvis dealer. Out June 30. EIN NOTE: Millbranch Music is a reliable label but how odd they concentrate on Elvis 'Opening Night 1972' when it has recently been released in amazing STEREO by MRS. See 'All The CD News 2024' for tracklistings and ALL the lengthy details (News, Source;MM/ElvisInfoNet)
'The King at the War Memorial' New Import CD: A Straight Arrow release of an old 1976 AUDIENCE recording 'The King at the War Memorial' “From the Chris Brown master tapes Vol. 1”. The publicity notes... Friday, June 25th 1976 Opening Show, War Memorial Auditorium, Buffalo, NY.
“My brother David and I drove to Buffalo to see the first show of a new tour.
It was a very good show. I heard many songs live for the first time, with the highlights being two complete versions of HURT, AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL, and performances of both POLK SALAD ANNIE and BURNING LOVE not often done in the same show.
Elvis also performed a new song for me tonight - HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU (to Barbara).
This performance stands out as one of my favorites of the twenty-nine I saw. It was a really wild crowd and I think Elvis was surprised at their reaction to him. Always exciting, always fun, and always entertaining. A real joy. So long ago...”
(excerpts from liner notes by Christopher Brown) EIN Note: This was released in 2009 by Millbranch on 'The Bicentennial King Vol 1' See 'All The CD News 2024' for tracklistings (News, Source;FECC/ElvisInfoNet)
Friday 14 June 2024
"ELVIS MEMPHIS" New 2024 SONY Box-set: The long-rumoured new Elvis official box-set featuring his Memphis recordings to be released for Elvis Week 2024 has been offiicially announced.
It is a FIVE CD set, to be released 9 August 2024 by RCA/ Legacy.
"MEMPHIS is a comprehensive collection that takes listeners through the many recordings Elvis had done while in Memphis - from his songs at SUN Records, to his American Studio and Stax sessions, through to his 1974 hometown show and finally, his last recordings in Graceland. This 5-CD collection of Elvis’ songs over the years features 111 tracks, 88 of which are newly mixed versions of the select recordings, pure and without overdubs."
The five CDs each focus on SUN Records, American Studios, Stax Studios, LIVE Mid-South Coliseum Memphis and Graceland.
Features "Highlights of Elvis' recordings throughout his years in Memphis. Features newly remixed tracks in their pure form without overdubs by Grammy Award winning producer Matt Ross-Spang. Includes his 1974 hometown show at the Mid-South Colosseum."
Various websites have it priced at £34 / Euro43 / US$80
'ELVIS MEMPHIS' Double Vinyl: For lovers of coloured vinyl, Graceland have announced a red vinyl 2-LP highlight collection of songs, taken from the comprehensive Memphis release, features newly mixed versions of select recordings, pure and without overdubs.
Taking listeners through the many recordings Elvis had done while in Memphis, this 2 LP set collects songs recorded at SUN Records, American Studio and Stax sessions and his last recordings in Graceland.
A regular black-vinyl set will be available at your local shops or Amazon.
(News, Source;EPE/ElvisInfoNet)
Thursday 13 June 2024
Mark James 'Suspicious Minds' Composer Dead at 83: Legendary songwriter Mark James who composed 'Suspicious Minds' and 'Always On My Mind' has died at the age of 83.
The Texas-born musician scored his first major hit in 1968 with the song 'Hooked On A Feeling' by B.J Thomas.
Over the course of his career his compositions were recorded by artists including BJ Thomas, Willie Nelson, Bill Withers, Brenda Lee, Pet Shop Boys and Michael Bublé.
But his most outstanding hits were for Elvis and after 'Suspicious Minds' Elvis would record James' songs, 'Raised on Rock', 'It's Only Love' and 'Moody Blue' and his greatest success 'Always on My Mind' (a collaboration with Johnny Christopher and Wayne Carson) that would be covered by multiple artists.
In 2000 Mark James was named one of the top songwriters of the 20th Century alongside Paul McCartney, Elton John and Holland-Dozier-Holland.
He died at his home in Nashville, on 8 June.
In a statement, James's family said "His larger-than-life personality filled any room he was in, and his smile lit it up.
He was a captivating storyteller who had the sweetest smile, the most infectious laugh and a twinkle in his eye that never dimmed."
James was born Francis Zambon in Houston in 1940 and gravitated towards music at a young age. By 1959, he was performing locally and had recorded a single called Jive Note but his career was put on hold when he was drafted into the army to fight in the Vietnam War.
On his return he signed to a Memphis publishing company where he helped write songs for fellow Houston native B.J. Thomas including his breakout hit 'The Eyes Of A New York Woman'.
He recorded his own version of 'Suspicious Minds' in 1968 at American Studios with producer Chips Moman, but it failed to chart.
A year later at his 1969 Memphis Sessions Elvis was looking for new material to record and heard 'Suspicious Minds'. "Elvis wanted to hear the song over and over again, and learned it on the spot," said producer Chips Moman.
Using almost exactly the same arrangement as James's original, Elvis took the song to number one in 1969 - rejuvenating his career.
James talked of meeting Elvis in Vegas,"Elvis invited me to Vegas when 'Suspicious Minds' was charting and I remember he was at a table talking in a long room with Sammy Davis or Andy Williams way across the room. And I came in the room and Elvis stood up and walked clear across the room and said, “Hi Mark. How you been doing?”
I said, “Man, this guy is something else" - He was a classy guy, you know! There's nobody like Elvis. He was one of a kind."
Mark James wrote more than 300 songs in a career that spanned seven decades.
'Always On My Mind' would be recorded by more than 300 other acts and Willie Nelson's 1982 cover earned James a Grammy Award for song of the year.
The Pet Shop Boys also covered it in 1987 and it became the UK Christmas number one single and was later named the "best cover of all time" in a BBC poll.
In later years he became more interested in film scores, and studied the discipline at UCLA and the American Film Institute.
James was inducted to the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2014 and was also entered into the New York Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.
Speaking in 2021, James looked back at his career and said he was "thankful that his songs were still being embraced by new generations of listeners around the world". (News, Source;Various/EIN)
'Suspicious Minds' - Elvis' Greatest Single?: 'Suspicious Minds' was released on August 26th 1969. While the NBC '68 TV Special, along with the single 'In the Ghetto' had pushed Elvis back to the forefront of popular culture, it would be the release of Elvis' last US Number 1 single that would ultimately prove to all the critics that Elvis was a still relevant contemporary musical force.
To celebrate the 40th anniversary EIN looked back in detail at the history of this classic song, including new interviews with Marty Lacker and Bobby Wood, as well as insights from composer Mark James and producer Chips Moman.
FTD 'Moody Blue' Sparkly Gold Vinyl Finally Released!: After months of delay the FTD "Gold Sparkle" reprint of their 2015 'Moody Blue' double-album has been released! Sadly Moody Blue composer Mark James will have missed out on his copy. (see the sad news above)
This individually numbered gold collectible is limited to 4000 copies Worldwide.
Apart from outtakes of “Way Down” and “Moody Blue”, this 2-LP deluxe edition includes “If You Love Me (Let Me Know)”, “Pledging My Love”, He’ll Have To Go” plus two undubbed versions of his now legendary emotional interpretation of “Unchained Melody”..
EIN was disappointed first time around (seeFTD 2015 releases here) that it did not include the full-length version of 'Pledging My Love'. Sadly it still doesn't. OUT NOW at your local Elvis dealer See 'FTD / SONY Releases 2024' for tracklist (News, Source;FTD/EIN)
Tuesday 11 June 2024
Elvis Hologram-Avatar Update: ABBA's Björn Ulvaeus' company 'Pophouse Entertainment' is reportedly in talks to create shows featuring an ELVIS PRESLEY avatar.
'Pophouse' is a founding investor in the extremely successful "ABBA Voyage" avatar show.
Björn Ulvaeus's Pophouse recently paid $300million for the rights for 'KISS' and is developing an avatar band for the act.
Authentic Brands Group, via EPE, owns the right to Elvis’ name, image, and likeness rights and discussions are taking place.
Interestingly ABBA's Björn Ulvaeus recently talked of his desire to “see the young Elvis come alive again”.
The UK Financial Times reports that this is separate to the "Elvis virtual-concert experience" that has a November London debut.
Discussions have thus far centered “on a commercial partnership” as opposed to an outright IP sale.
The ultra-lucrative "ABBA Voyage" continues with massive sales so one can understand 'Pophouse Entertainment' being interested in an Elvis avatar concert.
Like the unprecedented rise of AI-generated music, “live” performances delivered by non-human performers are becoming increasingly popular.
Layered Reality is the company working on the November London Elvis experience"Elvis Evolution” which includes "multi-sensory technology and holographic projection."
Meanwhile, Pophouse’s 'KISS' avatar isn’t scheduled until 2027. Nearly 50 years after his tragic death ELVIS is planning yet another comeback! (News, Source;FT/ElvisInfoNet)
MRS 'Las Vegas On Stage Feb 1973' OUT NOW: The UK label ‘Memphis Recording Service’ (MRS) have released the 4CD Deluxe-set and LP ‘Las Vegas, On Stage 1973’.
This 4CD set contains three performances recorded in February 1973, during Elvis’ eighth engagement in Las Vegas.
The Las Vegas shows took place weeks after the historic satellite TV show, Aloha From Hawaii, was filmed and broadcast on 14 January.
All shows are presented in stereo for the first time ever and the stunning 2024 remastering of CD3 (3rd February Dinner Show) will make this the best MRS stereo mix thus far.
A bonus CD of remastered rehearsal tracks is also included.
The three concerts featured are... 2 February 1973 Midnight Show
3 February 1973 Dinner Show
3 February 1973 Midnight show
The accompanying booklet includes rare photographs, memorabilia and liner notes which set the scene.
The VINYL version is the stunning quality 3rd February Dinner Show. See 'All The CD News 2024' for tracklistings and more details See your local Elvis dealer OUT Now. (News, Source;MRS/EIN)
'You Gave Me A Mountain' (Multi Camera Edit): Recently posted by the Fabrica Elvis XXI YouTube channel a very clever multi-screen version of Elvis' 'You Gave Me A Mountain'.
A new "4K" edit it is well-worth watching.
It's interesting to see how healthy Elvis looked at Aloha in comparison to a year earlier when he and Priscilla had just split-up.
Elvis was a world-champion but obviously had emotional mountains he could relate to.
'That’s All Right: The Song That Changed The World' Trailer: Elvis Files have posted a trailer for their 'That’s All Right: The Song That Changed The World' 70th Anniversary Box Set.
Includes mock-up 3D record player with the first 78 printed on top, a 7” 45rpm EP (4 songs - That’s All Right & Blue Moon Of Kentucky recorded by all three artists - Elvis, Arthur Crudup and Bill Monroe), two 12" albums (12 songs on each).
The first album focuses on That’s All Right & Blue Moon Of Kentucky by Elvis in the 50’s and 60’s.
On the second we hear multiple versions of Elvis doing That’s All Right from 1970s on black vinyl. Includes sheet-music and more...
"When You Think of Elvis, you also think of Weddings": On-line 'The Knot Worldwide' champions the power of celebration and weddings and recently they discussed ELVIS.
.... Elvis is having a moment. We've seen his likeness splashed on cinema screens in Baz Luhrmann's "Elvis" and Sofia Coppola's "Priscilla," kept a pulse on the 2022 Vegas Elvis wedding crackdown and now patiently await the release of Lisa Marie's memoir about growing up in Graceland. But for wedding industry folks, and many to-be-wed couples, Elvis never left the building. The Elvis renaissance that's an integral part of the current zeitgeist has been happening for us all along. But why is the King of Rock 'n' Roll such a sustaining wedding icon? From having an Elvis impersonator wedding officiant to dancing the night away to the crooner's iconic love songs, he's part of so many couples' nuptials in one way, shape or form.
... In this amusing 2024 article (go here), Elvis author Trina Young helps explain why over 40 years since his death Elvis is still such a feature at weddings. Why did Las Vegas Elvis weddings become popular and how come if Elvis and Priscilla's marriage failed why are Elvis impersonators so popular as celebrants? (See EIN's fascinating 2023 interview with Elvis author Trina Young here) (News, Source;TY/EIN) - and go here for Trina Young's "Elvis News Examiner")
Sunday 9 June 2024
MRS 'Elvis: The Complete Movie Masters 1960-62' In-Depth Review: This 2024 MRS 'Elvis: The Complete Movie Masters 1960-62 - Plus Session Out-takes' 4CD/Book combo pays tribute to Elvis Presley’s complete master soundtrack recordings made for his movies between 1960-62.
As a bonus two CDs contain rare outtake tracks from these recording sessions and do include unreleased material.
The 140-page book focuses on each of the seven films and is accompanied by informative text, complemented by rare and previously unseen photographs and memorabilia.
In his first two years out of the army Elvis still looked terrific and the book includes a veritable pot-pourii of attractive images for readers to savor.
The set includes the STEREO masters from 'Follow That Dream' that have never been officially released on album, as well as other previously unreleased remastered stereo recordings.
Collectors will not only enjoy the images of Elvis in gorgeous close-up but also nearly five hours of great sixties soundtrack music.
'Elvis:King of Bling Vol.1' New Book: A new book by prolific Elvis author Paul Belard. The book description notes...
In an article in The New York Times Magazine published on August 8, 2023, titled A Brief History of Bling, the author argued that the story of hip-hop could be told “through the stunning and surreal evolution of the jewelry the artists wear.”
According to him, “The word bling, which entered common parlance at the turn of the century, conjures specific sights: small flotillas of twinkling diamonds, gold layered literally to the teeth, watches so gem-encrusted they barely tick.” He adds that, “One beguiling trick of hip-hop production, whether it’s expensive or ersatz, elegant or gaudy, is to convey musically what jewelry signifies visually.” It is indeed a brief history of bling because Elvis’ name is not even mentioned! Had the word “bling” been in use in the 20th century, Elvis would have outshone the hip-hop genre. Anyone who has seen some of the bling worn by the rappers can credibly say that, compared to Elvis, they are mere amateurs.
Elvis enjoyed wearing flamboyant accessories, from necklaces, pendants, bracelets, rings, belts, tie clips, cuff links, watches, and of course clothing, e.g. the gold lame suit. If it is true that the term “bling” entered the vocabulary at the turn of the 2000s, Elvis was the “blinger” par excellence before the word came into use.
Out June 3, 2024 -
Paperback: 220 pages. Go here to Amazon. (News, Source;PB/EIN)
Michael Lockwood chasing 6-figure-sum From Elvis’ Trust: More legal battles for Riley Keough to deal with as Lisa Marie's ex-husband Michael Lockwood demands a six-figure compensation for legal fees. In Touch has reported that his case has been delayed as a LA Superior Court judge ruled “additional evidence” was required to grant his petition for fees from The Promenade Trust.
Riley Keough was appointed as administrator of The Promenade Trust, which holds most of Elvis’ estate, following her mother’s death in 2023.
Elvis’ only child left behind around $30 million for her three children, Riley and her 15-year-old twins Harper and Finley.
Priscilla also initially challenged Riley being named sole administrator but dropped her fight after Riley agreed to pay her $1 million.
Michael Lockwood was appointed guardian of his and Lisa Marie's twins Harper and Finley and following their 2016 split they then fought over custody for years and were still fighting months before she passed.
In March, Michael filed a petition, on behalf on Harper and Finley, demanding Riley pay legal fees racked up following Lisa Marie’s death.
In the filing Lockwood said he helped Riley and Priscilla settle their issues. His attorney said, “from the outset, Michael and his counsel played a central role in helping keep the parties focused on resolving those issues with minimal court intervention. Importantly, Michael was able to achieve his goal of ensuring the court issues were all resolved effectively and cost-efficiently.”
Michael asked for Riley to pay $153,650. Recently a hearing was held where the judge decided not to rule on Michael’s petition.
The judge said Lisa Marie’s ex needed to present additional evidence and another hearing has been set for August 2024.
Go here to In Touch for the full story (News, Source;IT/EIN)
"Ol’ Swivel Hips Still Wovs’ em" VINYL box-set: WOW, five albums of Elvis live in 1977 - get your friends over for a fun night of live music!
The bootleg label calls in "Ol’ Swivel Hips Still Wovs' 'em" even on the front cover - when of course it should be Elvis "WOWS them" - not Wovs! Described as .. a "5 LP + 4 CD Deluxe Box-Set" .. This super deluxe box set is focussing on Elvis’ third tour of 1977. Elvis’ live performances in 1977 are often criticized and not without a reason. (EIN Note; then please don't release these on vinyl!)
But Elvis was still offering his fans an enjoying time, the magic of seeing Elvis in person probably exceeded the fact he often delivered a standard and sometimes even mediocre performance.
The reactions of the spectators are very telling. They scream, shout and get wild for their hero. While listening to the recordings of these shows you cannot draw any other conclusion than that the shows were sometimes below par, although often with highlights!
This set is very limited (EIN is not surprised) and available in RED or WHITE or MIXED vinyl.
Includes April 23, 1977 Toledo, April 26 Kalamazoo, May 3 Saginaw. See 'All The Elvis CD News' for full tracklisting (News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
'Elvis - From RCA To Stax' Vinyl Import: Yet more scraping-the-barrel-vinyl.
From Paradise Road Records...
.. Including recordings from RCA's Studio B in Nashville and the Stax Studio in Memphis.
A very nice 70's vinyl compilation with many outtakes for the first time on vinyl!
Includes session outtakes of Padre, Life, Heart Of Rome, Sylvia, Make The World Go Away and others..
'Legendary Elvis' & '70...72...73... Fragments | The Rehearsal Tapes' VINYL: More scraping-the-barrel-vinyl for collectors....
Elvis One presents 'Legendary Elvis' and '70...72...73... Fragments- The Rehearsal Tapes' on vinyl.
These are the first two vinyl releases from the Elvis One label.
Both releases have a limited availability. 'Legendary Elvis' includes 14 Radio Spots and two radio interviews plus some 50s undubbed masters '70...72...73... Fragments' includes Froggy Went A-Courtin’ , I’m Leaving It All Up To You, Faded Love, Oh Happy Day (ending only) etc, all previously released on bootleg.
See'All The Elvis CD News' for details
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
Wednesday 5 June 2024
Lisa Marie Memoir Title and Cover: Random House has revealed the title of the much-anticipated Lisa Marie Presley memoir 'From Here to the Great Unknown' scheduled for release on Oct 15. About The Book: Born to an American myth and raised in the wilds of Graceland, Lisa Marie Presley tells her whole story for the first time in this raw, riveting, one-of-a-kind memoir faithfully completed by her daughter, Riley Keough.
In 2022, Lisa Marie Presley asked her daughter to help finally finish her long-gestating memoir.
A month later, Lisa Marie was dead, and the world would never know her story in her own words, never know the passionate, joyful, caring, and complicated woman that Riley loved and grieved.
Riley got the tapes that her mother had recorded for the book, laid in her bed, and listened as Lisa Marie told story after story about smashing golf carts together in the yards of Graceland, about the unconditional love she felt from her father, about being upstairs, just the two of them. About getting dragged screaming out of the bathroom as she ran towards his body on the floor.
About living in Los Angeles with her mother, getting sent to school after school, always kicked out, always in trouble.
About her singular, lifelong relationship with Danny Keough, about being married to Michael Jackson, what they shared in common. About motherhood. About deep addiction. About ever-present grief.
Riley knew she had to fulfill her mother’s wish to reveal these memories, incandescent and painful, to the world. 'To make her mother known'.
This extraordinary book is composed of both Lisa Marie’s and Riley’s voice, a mother and daughter communicating across the transom of death as they try to heal each other.
Profoundly moving and deeply revealing, From Here to the Great Unknown is a book like no other - the last words of the only child of a true legend. Hardcover - 272 Pages
Go here to Lisa Marie Book for multiple ordering options
Fans who pre-order through ShopGraceland.com will receive a lithograph, autographed by Riley Keough. $32.00 (News, Source;Various/EIN)
Tupelo Elvis Festival 2024: The Tupelo Elvis Festival returns for its 26th year kicking off tonight with a sold-out opening night gala.
Elvis competitions, concerts, parties and events for all ages will be hosted at venues across the city, including the Tupelo Cotton Mill, theElvis Presley Birthplace, the Cadence Bank Arena and the Silver Moon Club.
Lucia Randle, (director of Tupelo Main Street Association), expects the Friday and Saturday night shows to be highlights of the festival.
Jason Russo of the 'TIC' Band served as creative director for the Friday night “From Tupelo With Love” concert, featuring a range of Elvis love songs, and the Saturday night “The Rocker” concert, featuring Elvis tunes with a twist.
“This electrifying performance infuses a rockier edge into Elvis’s timeless classics, creating a fresh and dynamic experience that will have audiences on their feet and dancing in the aisles.”
The festival is all about celebrating Elvis with existing fans and sharing his music with new generations.
The Tupelo Elvis Festival brings fans from far and wide and overseas to celebrate in Elvis' birth-town.
For more info - festival Schedule and tickets- visit tupeloelvisfestival (News, Source;Tupelo/ElvisInfoNet)
'Roustabout 60th Anniv Edition' New Import: According to the publicity Infinity Records is ready to celebrate the 60th anniversary release of Elvis' 16th motion picture, "Roustabout," with a brand new 2-CD set.
The album was recorded between March 2 and May 14. This would mark the third film released in 1964 and went on to reach No. 1 on the Billboard album chart, making it the last Elvis album to do so until 1973's "Aloha From Hawaii."
This release includes newly mixed stereo masters, mono masters, outtakes, movie versions, rare radio promos, and a brief message to fans in the U.K.
Fans can expect great renditions of tracks like "Roustabout," "One Track Heart," "Hard Knocks," "It's A Wonderful World," which was considered for an Oscar nomination & other classics.
Packed in a digi-pack featuring stunning photos and posters. EIN Note: This CD includes mono versions and "film" versions but otherwise looks very similar to the 2017 FTD 'Roustabout' soundtrack album. See 'All The Elvis CD News' for full tracklisting (News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
'Keeping The Show Alive' New VINYL Import: SR Records announces Elvis’ January / February 1973 Vegas Vinyl/CD pack featuring January 27 1973 MS plus a Bonus CD of unreleased show from February 05, 1973, MS. The publicity notes... The January show was previously released on CD (EIN Note: FTD 'From Vegas to Tahoe') but this is the first time on vinyl format with an incredibly superior sound.
The vinyl will be accompanied by a CD with an unreleased show from the same season just a week later. A Must-have! (EIN Note: Actually previously released as average AUDIENCE recording bootleg 'Thunderous Overture'.)
Elvis in the first week of the Vegas January and February season is undoubtedly the best moment of Elvis in 1973, presenting him at the top of his possibilities. The performances are outstanding and the shows are surely the best of the season.
Coming from just two weeks from the Aloha special was not the best way to face another Las Vegas season despite this in the first week of the season Elvis sings and is still very active on the stage.
Housed in deluxe sleeve, 150-gram vinyl and Bonus CD and FIVE different vinyl colour VARIATIONS. See 'All The Elvis CD News' for full tracklisting (News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
Sunday 2 June 2024
Two New ‘MRS CAMDEN’ Releases: UK Label ‘Memphis Recording Service’ (MRS) will re-release its remastered tracks on 2 upcoming title releases on its alternate budget label ‘MRS CAMDEN’ on 19th July 2024.
- The Complete 1950’s Studio Masters - 4CD/DIGI - The Complete RCA Studio Masters 1960-62 - Plus Session Out-Takes- 4CD/DIGI
1. 'The Complete 1950’s Studio Masters'
This 4CD set presented in a Camden digi-pack contains the complete master studio recordings of Elvis Presley from the 1950s.
It includes personal acetates, cut in 1953 and early 1954, all of his early Sun recordings from 1954-55, as well as every RCA studio master and movie studio soundtrack recording made between January 1956 and June 1958.
The set also contains bonus tracks of recordings made at radio stations, as well as alternate movie soundtrack recordings.
(Click for high-res cover image)
2. 'The Complete RCA Studio Masters 1960-62 - Plus Session Out-Takes'
This 4CD set (previously released as ‘Back in Living Stereo 1960-62’) pays tribute to the recordings Elvis made once he returned home from Germany in March 1960, after his stint as a soldier in the US army (1958-60).
These recordings were the first stereo recordings of Elvis issued to the public.
The CDs, presented in a Camden digi-pack, contain remastered tracks of all the 1960 - 1962 master recordings from RCA Studio’s in Nashville.
As a bonus, it includes 2 CDs containing rare material of studio session out-takes.
'Elvis News Report June 2024': Elvis super-fan Emiel Maier presents all the recent news including...... Information about Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis Concert film, Three newly
discovered live recordings from 1956, Celebrating 70 years of 'That’s
All Right', the dodgy Graceland law suit, Auction results, Obituary for Trevor O’Sullivan and much, much more ....
Elvis big sales at GWS Auctions: The recent GSW Auction for 'Elvis Presley Artifacts' featured some fascinating sales.
The three highest bids were for..
- Elvis 9.81ctw Diamond "First" TCB Ring - US$525,000after 25 bids.
This handsome and iconic gold ring was personally owned and designed by Elvis Presley. The ring was custom made for the King, and is crafted of solid 14k yellow gold in Elvis' preferred "nugget" motif. This is the very first TCB ring that Elvis had made with the now infamous logo. The ring is decorated with the raised "TCB" letters lined with diamonds, along with large lightning bolts on each side which are also lined with diamonds.
This ring was worn and loved by Elvis (see pic below) until he gave it to J.D. Sumner on stage during the first night of the Asheville concert in 1975 in front of more than 14,000 people. With letters from J.D. Sumner and Priscilla Presley plus original Sketches.
- Elvis 1ctw Diamond and 14K Gold TCB Necklace - sold for US$140,000 after 14 bids.
This 14k yellow gold TCB necklace was given by Elvis to his personal friend, Denver policeman Ron Pietrafeso. The pair met in 1969 after Elvis performed a concert in Denver and stayed in the city for a few extra days. They talked about many things, including how much Elvis liked visiting Colorado in the
winter for snowmobiling. Ron went on to tour with Elvis helping with security, visit Graceland and have Elvis as a guest in his home. After several years, one day while on tour Elvis looked at the necklace and told Joe Esposito that Ron had "been around long enough and done a good job" and that he needed diamonds added to his TCB. This necklace is incredibly rare and is thought to be one of only seven diamond TCB necklaces known to have been given. The necklace also comes with a letter of recollection from Priscilla Presley and a statement of provenance from Mr. Sig Hansen, who acquired this piece in 2022.
- Elvis' Personal Holy Bible from his bedroom nightstand. - sold for US $120,000 after 23 bids.
Elvis' Holy Bible that was on his nightstand in his bedroom at Graceland on the night he passed. The Bible is embossed with "Elvis Aaron Presley" in gold, and contains a large amount of book marked pages and underlined passages that seemingly spoke to Elvis. This Bible comes with a handwritten letter from Elvis' cousin Patsy Presley. The letter states in part, "Shortly after Elvis' passing my uncle Vernon and I went up into Elvis' bedroom at Graceland to organize and pack many of his personal belongings. This Holy Bible was one of three that Elvis had on his night table. After packing them Uncle Vernon had me take them home for safe keeping and eventually gave them to me." It is well known that Elvis was an avid reader and a deeply spiritual man. Of all of Elvis' Bibles sold over the years, this particular book has a truly touching story and fantastic provenance. EIN finds it strange that there appears to be no hand-written notes within the bible - only some underlining.
Go here to GWS Auctions for more details (News, Source;GWS/ElvisInfoNet)
Riley working on Lisa Marie Biography: An update from Page-Six about Lisa Marie's Biography to be released later this year..
.. Riley Keough is trying to preserve Lisa Marie Presley’s legacy. The 35-year-old 'Daisy Jones & The Six' star has been going through her troubled mother’s old tapes and notebooks on a quest to finish Lisa Marie’s autobiography.
The as-yet-untitled book will be released on October 15 2024 and will be feted with a celebration at Graceland.
The insider notes, “There are hundreds of hours of Lisa’s thoughts and dreams and Riley has to frame the book in a way that is both accurate and compassionate.
She is a super busy actress, producer and mom, and she’s not only had to listen to her mom’s thoughts, but has to decide how to package that into this book … It’s a Herculean effort. She’s going to have a lot of input on how people perceive Lisa’s legacy forever. That’s how difficult this is.”
Keough is also is in the midst of untangling complex family legal issues when she was forced to call her legal team into action when Graceland was at the center of an apparent foreclosure scam.
Riley who is now Graceland CEO is also attempting to maintain a dignified relationship with her grandmother, Priscilla Presley, who contested the “authenticity and validity” of Lisa Marie’s will after her daughter’s death.
She eventually agreed to pay her grandmother a lump sum of $1 million, plus $400,000 in legal fees, to become the sole trustee of Lisa Marie’s estate.
Riley last year explained to Vanity Fair, “When my mom passed, there was a lot of chaos in every aspect of our lives. Everything felt like the carpet had been ripped out and the floor had melted from under us … We are a family, but there’s also a huge business side of our family. So I think that there was clarity that needed to be had.”
Among the issues Riley will have to figure out how to cover in the memoir is her mother’s battle with addition to drugs plus all the ghosts of Lisa Marie's past marriages, to Keough’s father, Danny; singer Michael Jackson, actor Nicolas Cage, and musician Lockwood, with whom Lisa Marie was embroiled in a fraught custody up until her death.
The very talented Riley Keough is currently starring alongside Oscar nominee Lily Gladstone in the miniseries “Under the Bridge” about a Canadian teen murdered in 1997.
She’s also the face of Chanel and is scouting new directing projects following the success of her movie 'War Pony' which went to the Cannes Film Festival last year.
The insider noted, “Riley has a huge career while she bears the responsibility of forming what’s going to be perceived as her mom’s legacy.” (News, Source;pagesix/ElvisInfoNet)
'Harum Scarum' New Blu-Ray: The Warner Archive Collection has announced 'Harum Scarum' new Blu-ray "New 4K Scan from the original negative" for July 30 2024.
The 1965 musical comedy Harum Scarum directed by Gene Nelson and featuring Elvis Presley and former Miss America Mary Ann Mobley.
.."Go East, Young Man“ sings showbiz star and martial arts wizard, Johnny Tyrone. To hear is to obey. A clandestine group of called the Assassins kidnaps Johnny and whisks him to a remote Arabian realm isolated from the world for 2,000 years. Sheik meets desert chic when Elvis Presley plays Johnny and teams with former Miss America Mary Ann Mobley (Presley‘s 'Girl Happy' co-star) in this tuneful frolic, partially shot on the original set built for Cecil B. DeMille’s 1927 epic King of Kings and directed by music movie musical veteran Gene Nelson. The kidnappers want Johnny to use his fighting finesse to kill a desert king. Johnny a hitman? No, he’s a hit, man, a top singer of songs like Kismet, Harum Holiday and nine more, all part of the jammin’, scamming, swashbuckling fun of Harum Scarum.
The Blu-ray - 1080p HD Master from 4K Scan of the original negative.
16x9 1.85:1 /
DTS HD MA 2.0
Running time: 95 Minutes Special Features:
The original theatrical trailer.
Tom and Jerry Cartoons: "The Cat's Me-Ouch" and "Of Feline Bondage"
Available for purchase on July 30 (News, Source;Warners/ElvisInfoNet)
'Elvis: The Man & His Music' #144: EIN's favourite Elvis music magazine 'Elvis: The Man & His Music' June 2024 issue is out now.
Articles include..
- Collecting Elvis
- Holy Toledo!
- Commercial Elvis
- Sand In My Sandwich!
- In Search Of The Truth
- Your Letters
- News, CD & Book Reviews
'Elvis Presley: Guitar Man: The '67 / '68 Sessions' FTD: More info on the 'Elvis Presley: Guitar Man The '67 / '68 Sessions'.
Released as a 5CD set it features two Elvis' RCA sessions at Studio B in Nashville.
September 1967 highlights include Guitar Man, Hi Heel Sneakers, Big Boss Man and You Don't Know Me.
The January 68 sessions highlights include Too Much Monkey Business and U.S. Male. It also included an extraordinary 30 takes of 'Goin' Home'.
The 24-page booklet features rare photos, sessions data, memorabilia and release information.
FTD suggest it will be out in late June See 'Elvis FTD / SONY CD News' for a detailed look at the package and a list of what previously unreleased content it contains.
'Celluloid Sell-Out 1960-61' New FTD book: FTD also announces a new deluxe book by Bob Pakes for July.
This time a follow up to his earlier FTD book 'Celluloid Sell-Out 1956-1958'.
448 pages containing over 2000 images - featuring worldwide Elvis Presley movie memorabilia from 1960-1961. Packed with movie posters, lobby cards and more.
Also includes two cds of movie soundtrack outtakes (all previously released)
Graceland NOT under any threat of sale: The company that had intended to auction off Graceland has abandoned its plan after a judge in the US state of Tennessee blocked the sale following allegations of fraud.
A representative for the company 'Naussany Investments & Private Lending' said that it would withdraw all of its claims over Graceland.
It comes after Elvis' granddaughter Riley Keough filed a legal complaint against a private investment firm alleging that it is attempting a fraudulent sale of Presley's former home. The Tennessee attorney general is now opening a probe into the alleged creditor.
Lisa Marie died last year and her daughter Riley Keough has alleged that the deal never existed and that her mother's signature was forged.
The attorney general noted, "I have asked my lawyers to look into this matter, determine the
full extent of any misconduct that may have occurred, and identify what we can do to protect both Elvis Presley’s heirs and anyone else who may be similarly threatened."
No representative of Naussany Investments appeared in court and a search of public databases failed to turn up any record of the alleged lender.
According to Keough's court filings, her lawyers were sent emails by a man named Kurt Naussany who was seeking to collect the $3.8 million and threatening to sell Graceland. Reports are that Kurt Naussany never lent Lisa Marie money saying he left the company in 2015.
A representative for Graceland said that the court's decision “made clear” that the estate is not in danger of changing hands. “Graceland will continue to operate as it has for the past 42 years, ensuring that Elvis fans from around the world can continue to have a best in class experience when visiting his iconic home." (News, Source;Various/EIN)
Tupelo Elvis Festival 2024: The Tupelo Elvis Festival have announced their dates for 2024
Running from June 6 - 9 the festival at the Cadence Bank Arena will feature tons of events and hosted by Tom Brown. Events include....
“Welcome Back to Tupelo” Opening Concert featuring Jesse Aron (2023 Tupelo UETA winner), Cote Deonath, Ben Thompson, Brandon Bennett, Bill Cherry, Jay Dupuis and David Lee backed by Tributes in Concert Band (Cadence Bank Arena)
“Behind the Jumpsuits” Conversations hosted by Tom Brown and Jason Russo with special guest Robin Theobald - B&K Enterprises & more guests to be announced.
The Tupelo Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Competitions
“The Rocker” Concert featuring Dean Z, Ben Thompson, and Cote Deonath
Go toTupeloElvisFestivalfor tickets and more info (News, Source;TEF/EIN)
EIN Exclusives and News from earlier in May ...
'Elvis: Stateline SAHARA '74' FTD In-Depth Review:'ELVIS: Stateline Sahara 1974 Lake Tahoe' released as a 3-CD 5” digi-pak
features three previously unreleased performances from Elvis' third
Lake Tahoe season -
May 19 (Evening show), May 20 (Midnight show) and May 25 (Midnight show).
Just two weeks before this Lake Tahoe season Elvis had been playing to audiences of over 18 thousand at the Los Angeles Forum, so it is understandable if Elvis sounds a little more on ‘cruise-control’ but being less O-T-T is also a positive in that they sound more intimate.
ELVIS - 70th Anniversary Special Release - 5 x SUN 78RPM 10” VINYL SUNSPLAT SET: To celebrate the 70th Anniversary of Elvis’ first SUN record releases is a uniquely designed 5 record “SUN-splat” 78rpm vinyl release, out on the first week of July 2024.
These 5 magnificent SUN 10” (inch) singles play at 78RPM and only an extremely low number of these sets have been produced. This is the first time an Elvis SUN replica has been produced like this and designed to play at the original 78RPM speed.
The images here are an approximate to what each individual vinyl will look like since every copy will be slightly different in the amounts of splatter.
Each of the 5 SUN records have the original etched numbers included with the appropriate song sides with the labels perfect (as the original) in size, accuracy, and colour. The sound quality is excellent matching the original SUN sound recordings (including ‘That’s All Right’), and each are pressed on heavy stock vinyl.
Because of the strictly low limited number release, they are only available for preorder from selected Elvis dealers and fan clubs. Click for high res pics - Out first week July 2024 (News, Source;ElvisSunVinyl,ElvisInfoNet)
‘The Complete Movie Masters 1960-62 - Plus Session Out-Takes’ MRS Vinyl OUT NOW: The UK label MRS have released their four-LP double gatefold hardback version edition of its recent CD released ‘The Complete Movie Masters 1960-62 - Plus Session Out-Takes’. This Limited Edition 4LP GATEFOLD Deluxe VINYL set is housed in a special hardback Digi-folder.
The set pays tribute to Elvis Presley’s complete master soundtrack recordings made for his movies between 1960-62.
It includes a bonus LP containing rare outtake tracks from these recording sessions. All tracks have been mixed and remastered.
The Elvis movies G.I. Blues, Flaming Star, Wild In The Country, Blue Hawaii, Follow That Dream, Kid Galahad and Girls! Girls! Girls! are all featured.
Rare outtakes include, Tonight Is So Right For Love (Take 4), Shoppin’ Around (Take 14), Black Star (Take 5), Summer Kisses, Winter Tears (Movie Master Version), Riding The Rainbow (Take 8) and Home Is Where The Heart Is (Take 20 Unedited Master) At your Local Elvis Dealer NOW See 'All The Elvis CD News' for tracklists and more
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
'Elvis UK - Extended' In-Depth Book Review: UK specialists John Townson and Gordon Minto's new book 'ELVIS UK Extended - The Ultimate Guide to the Elvis Presley's EPs 1957 - 2001' follows on from their previous publications in the Elvis UK series.
The 500 page soft-cover book, extensively illustrated, details the history of Elvis' Extended Play releases, their popularity and subsequent fall from favour.
It includes a chronological list of all the EPs their multiple repressings and all are cross-referenced with its US counterpart and key differences discussed.
Based on 40+ years of research, and with contributions by insiders providing previously unknown perspectives and knowledge on the production, marketing, musical and other aspects of Elvis' UK EP releases.
But can there really be anything new of particular interest in a book about Elvis’ vinyl UK EP releases? Many of us believed they started with the ‘Love Me Tender’ EP and wrapped by 1967 with ‘Easy Come Easy Go’.
That’s only 20 or so EP releases and surely some like ‘Elvis Sails’ or ‘Elvis Sings Christmas Songs’ would only get one original print run and then be deleted.
We thought that this smaller UK vinyl theme would be done and dusted in under 100 pages – “mah boy, mah boy” were we wrong!
.. and the book will make you want to spin some vinyl! The incredible trio Nigel Patterson / Piers Beagley and Kees Mouwen (Elvis Day by Day) combine forces to check out the book. (Book Review, Source:EIN/ElvisDayByDay)
'For LP Fans Only / A Date with Elvis - Mono II Stereo' New CD: From the french RDM label - Two classic albums, for the first time in stereo.
'For LP Fans Only' released in February 1959, brought together songs previously released on 45rpm or on EPs, such as the classics 'That's All Right', 'Lawdy Miss Clawdy', 'Mystery Train' or the song 'Poor Boy' from the soundtrack of the film 'Love Me Tender'.
'A Date with Elvis' was released in July 1959 based on the same principle of compiling previously published 45rpm or 'Extended Play' songs from Elvis' past. It contained other Elvis classics such as 'Blue Moon of Kentucky' and 'Good Rockin' Tonight' plus 'Baby, I Don't Care' and the haunting 'Is It So Strange'.
The stereo mixes on this CD, are the latest in our series of Mono-to-Stereo reissues created by producer Anthony Stuchbury, are authentic to original Mono releases but now sound more like the original studio sessions.
The stereo mixes on this CD, are the latest in our series of 'Mono-II-Stereo' reissues created by producer Anthony Stuchbury, and are authentic to the original Mono vinyl releases but now sound more like the original studio sessions.
Now fans can re-discover these 20 classic Elvis songs as if they were mixed in stereo for their initial release.
Interview with authors of 'ELVIS UK - Extended': Co-authors John Townson and Gordon Minto recently published 'ELVIS UK Extended - The Ultimate Guide to the Elvis Presley's EPs 1957 - 2001'.
The book, extensively illustrated, details the history of Elvis' Extended Play releases, their popularity and subsequent fall from favour.
It includes a chronological list of all the EPs their multiple repressings and all are cross-referenced with its US counterpart and key differences discussed.
Based on 40+ years of research, and with contributions by insiders providing previously unknown perspectives and background knowledge on the production, marketing, musical and other aspects of "just" 22 original Extended Play's and 3 EP box-sets, this impressive book is the definitive word on Elvis' UK EP releases.
'Elvis Presley Rock ’n’ Roll No.2' MONO II STEREO CD Review: Luckily for inquisitive Elvis collectors, producer Anthony Stuchbury is back with his take on Elvis’ second album ‘Rock ‘n’ Roll No.2’.
Rediscover Elvis Presley's second album and four key 1956 singles with a new STEREO mix!
The stereo mixes newly created for this CD allow you to find the naturalness of the original recordings and give the impression of being in the heart of the studio with Elvis and his musicians.
With Mono II Stereo fans can embrace a new way of listening to old albums, rediscovering 'The Young Man with the Big Beat' all over again.
The Stereo 'Bonus Singles', Love Me Tender, Anyway You Want Me, Too Much, Hound Dog, Don't Be Cruel, Playing For Keeps, My Baby Left Me, I Want You, I Need You, I Love You all add to the interest
The stunning thing with ‘Mono > Stereo’ is that you can now tune in to parts you have never heard before. EIN's Piers Beagley investigates what he discovered from these new Stereo versions.
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
Upcoming books from the Elvis Files organisation in Norway: Erik Lorentzen has a busy 2024 planned for releases of Elvis photo books.
Already out is the mammoth '1124' box set and during the past fortnight EIN reported news of the 'That's All Right: The Song That Changed the World' set and 'Elvis Portraits: A Life in Pictures The Fifties' (shown right) book.
Also announced are: *Elvis Portraits: A Life in Pictures Vol. III The Sixties
*Elvis Portraits: A Life in Pictures Vol. IV The Seventies
*Elvis Prodigy of RCA Records
'Las Vegas On Stage Feb 1973' New MRS: The UK label ‘Memphis Recording Service’ (MRS) will release a 4CD Deluxe-set and LP titled ‘Las Vegas, On Stage 1973’ in June 2024.
This 4CD set contains a varied selection of live performances recorded in February 1973, during Elvis’ eighth engagement in Las Vegas.
The shows, recorded at the Hilton Hotel, took place weeks after the historic satellite TV show, Aloha From Hawaii, was filmed and broadcast on 14 January.
All shows are presented in stereo for the first time ever and the stunning 2024 remastering of CD3 (3rd February Dinner Show) will make this the best MRS stereo mix thus far.
A bonus CD of remastered rehearsal tracks, recorded days before the engagement began, is also included.
The three concerts featured are... 2 February 1973 Midnight Show
3 February 1973 Dinner Show
3 February 1973 Midnight show
The accompanying booklet - which includes rare photographs and memorabilia dating from this engagement - also features liner notes which set the scene.
For the VINYL version the stunning quality 3rd February Dinner Show has been chosen.
These Limited Edition sets and will be available in both Black and Clear vinyl.
Please note, the clear vinyl is ONLY available from exclusive Elvis dealers and fan clubs and NOT to the mainstream public stores.
Baz Luhrmann teases new "Elvis Concert Film": Good news for Elvis fans when director Baz Luhrmann once again talked about his possible Elvis concert film with Hollywood Reporter at the Met Gala
Once again the 'ELVIS' director hinted he was working on a concert film of never-before-seen footage from the superstar.
At the Met Gala Luhrmann teased that he may not be quite done with Elvis Presley-related projects, following his 2022 film.
The director told Hollywood Reporter, “The fans really want to know if all that footage we found in the vaults is going to become a concert film and I’m here to say I think it’s gonna happen.”
Last October Luhrmann had posted on Instagram that “we’ve found reels and reels of never-before-seen footage of 'Elvis on Tour' and 'That’s The Way It Is',” telling fans to “stay tuned.”
An accompanying video showed a cardboard box with a Warner Bros. label and “Elvis outtakes box”
written on the side. - (see EIN 'ELVIS movie' spotlight)
The director has also previously mentioned an "extended cut" of ELVIS with more of Butler’s performances.
... Fingers crossed as Luhrmann is still talking more ELVIS. (News, Source;HR/ElvisInfoNet)
'That's All Right' Deluxe-box-Set: Some further details from Erik Lorentzen - A special 'That's All Right' Deluxe-box-Set - Guaranteed To Blow Your Mind! To be released on July 19TH 2024 - 70 YEARS AFTER. The song that changed the world. . .
Presenting a unique collector’s item like you have never seen before! Housed in a box with a magnetic closure which features a NEVER-BEFORE-SEEN 1954 Blue Light Studio picture on top.
When you open the box, you’ll look at a mock-up 3D record player with the first 78 printed on top, a 7” 45rpm EP (4 songs - That’s All Right & Blue Moon Of Kentucky recorded by all three artists - Elvis, Arthur Crudup and Bill Monroe), two 12" albums (12 songs on each).
The first album focuses on That’s All Right & Blue Moon Of Kentucky by Elvis in the 50’s and 60’s. On the second we hear That’s All Right from 1970 on black vinyl. TRIVIA: did you know that Elvis sang That’s All Right 294 times during the seventies!? All 294 recordings are mentioned in the book!
Furthermore, a beautiful hardbound book packed with information about these songs and, of course, exceptionally beautiful pictures including printed
for-your-pleasure, and on heavy paper, sheet music from both That’s All Right and Blue Moon Of Kentucky and a rare replica of a Poplar Tunes window card from 1954.
This extremely beautiful set is going to be a collector’s item for every fan and for sure it will increase in value over the years.
This will be one of the most collectable items ever sold in a limited-edition boxset.
'Elvis, Hero of the Comic Books' - hardcover variant: In keeping with the age-old comics book tradition, the hardcover edition of the upcoming book, Elvis Hero of the Comic Books, by EIN's Nigel Patterson, will have this "white" cover variant (compared to the previously announced "red and black" softcover edition).
The fantastic design is again by Elvis Day By Day's, Kees Mouwen.
After reviewing the proof copy there is a little more work to do finalising the book, including adding a "For Mature Readers Only" section.
The nearly 400-pages book features text and imagery for more than 250 comic books, graphic novels, graphic biographies, caricatures, comic strips and comic book ephemera, which are directly about Elvis or feature him in a subsidiary or cameo role. It is the first comprehensive account highlighting the impressive volume and eclectic nature of Elvis' presence and impact through the comic book medium.
Click for high-res cover
(News, Source: EIN)
MRS ‘ON FIRE IN TOLEDO – 1956’ At your Local Dealers: Elvis LIVE in 1956 and ALL tracks PREVIOUSLY UNRELEASED!Now delivered to all your local Elvis Dealers.
This stunning set is available in our very collectable combi 7” gatefold 45rpm EP (Extended Play) vinyl single, housed together with a sleeved CD EP single.
This unique packaging, designed and created by MRS, comprises on the inside left panel a CD wallet inserted into a slot and on the right panel a vinyl 45rpm 7” EP single. The 45rpms will be available in both GREEN and PINK vinyl versions.
These are limited editions and are NOT available on mainstream online and stores. A 'Limited Edition' CD single only version is also available.
All tracks published for the first time ever and are previously unreleased.
Recently discovered interview PLUS 3 LIVE TRACKS from Elvis' appearance in Toledo Ohio on November 22nd, 1956.
Although Elvis’ unique performance was very poorly recorded and had distortion and imperfections, our professional engineer’s mastering efforts have made vast improvements including correction of pitch speed, reduction of hiss, removal of radio host Ron Ross talking over while Elvis is performing and overall clarity.
Though every effort has been made to achieve optimum sound quality, priority is given to its historical content.
Check with your Local Elvis Dealer - the set is OUT NOW.
Tracklist - Elvis Presley: On Fire In Toledo – 22 November 1956 45RPM EXTENDED PLAY VINYL
SIDE A
01. Radio WOWO Ron Ross Interviews Elvis
02. Heartbreak Hotel
SIDE B
03. Long Tall Sally
04. Don‘t Be Cruel (Incomplete)
CD SINGLE EP
01. Radio WOWO Ron Ross Interviews Elvis
02. Introduction
03. Heartbreak Hotel
04. Long Tall Sally
05. Don‘t Be Cruel (Incomplete)
'Elv1s: 30 #1 Hits' once again heading up in US Charts: Forbes magazine has checked Elvis' recent chart action.
.. Elvis Presley is often spoken about as one of the earliest rock stars. He’s largely recognized for his contributions to the rock genre, but throughout his career, he worked in more than just one style. His music fits under several different labels, and that’s evident as ELVIS again rises on a number of Billboard charts.
'Elv1s: 30 #1 Hits' one of the superstar’s most successful compilations, is surging on three Billboard rankings this week.
Two of them are genre-specific, and the fact that he appears on both of them at the same time, and with the same album, speaks volumes about Elvis' music and how diverse his catalog is.
That set jumps up 16 spots on the Billboard 200 this time around. Presley’s compilation surges from No. 196 nearly at the very bottom of the 200 to No. 180.
In the past week, 'Elv1s: 30 #1 Hits' has sold another 8,310 equivalent units in US, up a little more than 4% from the period before, which shows a noticeable uptick in listens and sales.
The same project moves up three spaces to No. 44 on the Top Rock & Alternative Albums chart. This isn’t shocking, as he is one of the most famous rock musicians in history… but somewhat surprisingly, the title is also present on another, very different tally. 'Elv1s: 30 #1 Hits' also manages a three-rung climb on the Top Country Albums chart. His title lands at No. 33 this week.
Presley’s compilation has ruled the Top Country Albums chart in the past. Elv1s: 30 #1 Hits has never conquered the Top Rock & Alternative Albums ranking, though it has peaked at No. 5. Back in 2002 EIN interviewed 'Elv1s: 30#1 Hits' producer David Bendeth (News, Source;Forbes/EIN)
ELVIS ‘SUN 209’ 78rpm LIQUID VINYL 70th Anniv Special Release: To celebrate the 70th Anniversary of Elvis’ historic first single release of Sun 209 ‘That’s All Right’/ ‘Blue Moon of Kentucky’ a very special and totally unique limited-edition release of the recording that changed Rock’n’Roll history will be out in the first week of July 2024.
This special liquid vinyl version of Sun 209 10” playing at 78rpm is restricted to 125 copies worldwide. They contain a 2-colour liquid, nicely matching those notable SUN colors, that moves inside the vinyl.
Each of these unique vinyls are handmade and take an hour to produce each one. They also have the original etched numbers included with the appropriate song sides and are by far the most remarkable SUN replica made.
The labels are perfect (as the original) in size, accuracy and colour. The sound quality is excellent, featuring the original Sun recordings with the ‘dry’ ‘That’s All Right’ and pressed on heavy stock vinyl.
This is a strictly Limited Edition of only 125 copies that will ever be produced and are only available through selected Elvis dealers.
It's the ultimate Elvis Presley SUN vinyl collectable..
Expect prices of around 225-250 euros each.
Click for high-res images - More details soon..
(News, Source;EPLiquidVinyl/EIN)
ELVIS - 'The Wedding' EIN Spotlight: Whatever people's own personal feelings are toward Priscilla, Elvis clearly loved her. We can debate whether he was ‘pushed’ in to marriage by outside forces or whether Elvis who belonged to the women of the world should have married at all, but the fact is that Elvis did marry Priscilla 57 years ago today.
May 1st 1967 was no ordinary day in Elvis' life.
There were however some odd choices to the day and the ‘last minute’ exclusion of some of those who grew-up with Elvis was a particularly bad and hurtful.
Marty Lacker (RIP) was Elvis' co-Best Man at the wedding and back in 2017 he kindly gave EIN permission to publish his story of what happened on that famous day.
'Elvis Portraits: The Fifties - A Life In Photos' New Book: Erik Lorentzen's Elvis Files organisation has announced their new photo book.... 'Elvis Portraits: The Fifties - A Life In Photos' as the title suggests, provides a hardcover photo book with 400 pages printed on glossy paper with the best and most intimate & beautiful moments of Elvis in the fifties.
... As a fan of this period I can say with great confidence that the selected photos are extremely beautiful and very well picked.
As you expect from TEF / KJ Consulting you will find many unseen images of Presley at his best.
Our earlier book 'Elvis Portraits 1953 “A Life In Photos” 1977' completely sold out.
Volume 2 in the series, Elvis Portraits 50's is currently at the printer and will be in stock within a few weeks.
'The Blue Hawaii Sessions' Box-Set FTD In-Depth Review: Released last month, 'The Blue Hawaii Sessions' was the eleventh in FTD’s “complete sessions” packages. This is the audio-set that was released earlier as part of 'The Making Of Blue Hawaii'. The 8 inch deluxe 4-CD package includes the complete sessions "newly-mixed from the original 3-track tapes", a 24-page booklet with informative flashbacks from musicians, songwriters, session data, memorabilia and global chart information.
The set includes 50 'officially previously unreleased' session outtakes. However most of these have to be 'False-Starts'.
There is however over four hours of Polynesian influenced material to enjoy and lots of studio banter to eavesdrop on. The set also includes all twenty-nine takes of Elvis' classic chart-topper Can’t Help Falling In Love.
Elvis in Literature #4 - 'Elvis, Barbra, A Star Is Born, and a girl circling overhead': That Elvis was considered for the co-lead role in A Star Is Born, starring Barbra Streisand, has long been a discussion point among fans. Why didn't Elvis take up the offer? Could he have carried it off?
Ms Streisand recently released her autobiography, My Name is Barbra (Century Books), a mammoth book of nearly 1,000 pages (but unfortunately no index)!!
Streisand's account of discussions with Elvis and Colonel Tom Parker about the role of John Norman Howard is interesting - and her description of meeting Elvis also includes a fascinating and somewhat bizarre account of why Elvis was late in meeting up with her.
Elvis Week 2024 tickets ON SALE: EPE says.. Enjoy an unforgettable nine days, August 9-17, filled with live music, panels, contests, tributes, screenings and more – all honoring the man, the star, the icon - the King of Rock 'n' Roll!
Highlights of our 2024 schedule include the Elvis: Return to Vegas Show on August 16, featuring Elvis on the big screen accompanied by a live band; Elvis Fan Choice Awards, a night offering some glitz and glamour where your Elvis favorites are revealed; Elvis: Back in Memphis Concert, a tribute to the music Elvis recorded in his hometown;
plus Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist events and contests; Conversations on Elvis; and much more!
The two announced specials... Linda Thompson Graceland Mansion Q&A Experience @ US$1250 per person 'Jerry Schilling Elvis After Dark Graceland Experience @ US$1250 per person
... are both already Sold Out!
Preview pages – 'Elvis, Hero of the Comic Books': Elvis, Hero of the Comic Books by EIN’s Nigel Patterson (with striking page design by Elvis Day By Day’s, Kees Mouwen) is inching closer to publication.
The nearly 400-pages book features text and imagery for more than 250 comic books, graphic novels, graphic biographies, caricatures, comic strips and comic book ephemera, which are directly about Elvis or feature him in a subsidiary or cameo role. It is the first comprehensive account highlighting the impressive volume and eclectic nature of Elvis' presence and impact through the comic book medium.
Here are a slection of sample pages: Click on images for full size preview
(News, Source:EIN)
Elvis, Hero of the Comic Booksfeatures hundreds of images, the breadth of graphic art is a mix of the impressive, a case of WTF?, and art that some will find confronting. In addition, the book features various sidebars, which present a more detailed account of a particular title or issue.
The narrative themes found in the releases presented in this book are multifarious, ranging from straight biographies, Elvis as crime fighter, Elvis the super-hero realm, to anthropomorphic Elvis, Elvis parodies/ satire, and Elvis as demon, vampire, and zombie (this is a particularly popular theme). There is even a fairy godmother and a Lady Helvis!
As a body of work, the comic books, graphic novels and biographies represent a powerful symbol of the incredible impact Elvis continues to have on society and culture..
'ELVIS: At 3am Sahara Tahoe 1973' MRS CD Review: This Deluxe 2CD set features two shows from Elvis’ May 1973 engagement at The Sahara Tahoe in Lake Tahoe, Nevada. Included is a rare 3am charity performance as well as the midnight show from the previous night. Both shows for the first time are presented in stereo.
The accompanying booklet includes memorabilia and rare photos along with liner notes that set the scene.
Despite having to perform three concerts in the one evening, Elvis was feeling inspired and although it was 3am he still treated the ‘Mother’s Day’ benefit more like a Closing Night performance. Elvis was in extremely jovial spirits, teasing the band and adding some crazy lyrics. He also added unique live versions of ‘My Way’, ‘Faded Love’, ‘Funny How Time Slips Away’ and a rare ‘It’s Over’.
With the cassette hiss removed, the musicians and backing-vocals in stereo and Elvis’ vocal raised to the correct level, this MRS release sounds just like an RCA recorded multi-track and is the best representation of the “real Elvis” live in 1973 that fans could hope for. Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley checks out a sensational STEREO Elvis double-pack. (CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
Book Review- 'ELVIS : ALOHA FROM HAWAII - Through The Eyes of Japan': The book is 200 pages and features over 300 photos by Japanese
cameraman Yoshiji Kizaki, newly scanned from long-lost negatives. The
book features five main chapters focusing on four 1972 Elvis
appearances, November 17 1972 Evening Show, Nov 18 A/S and E/S, the Nov
20 Press Conference plus the Aloha main concert.
A lot of Kizaki's colour images are very impressive and so it is no surprise to learn that several of these photographs were used on Japanese vinyl album sleeves. There are some absolute beauties and the delight is that you will have never seen them before!
While this is obviously a photo book it is much more than that and the matching text makes it feel like a very personal journey. This book is actually about how the Japanese team witnessed some of Elvis' greatest performances and became a crucial part in Elvis' most famous live broadcast.
I have seen so few November 1972 on-stage photos before but here we get around fifty images from every concert.
In ‘Elvis A Life in Music’ Ernst Jorgensen wrote “By the end of 1972 Elvis was definitely overweight” so it is a surprise that these images show Elvis looking taught and terrific. In fact several from his November 17 concert could easily be mistaken for his iconic Aloha performance! See EIN's Piers Beagley detailed review
(Book Review, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
Book Review 'The King and The Jester': Elvis author Paul Belard's new "special interest" book all about Elvis and manager Col Parker is out now.
The cover notes, "As this uncultured philistine said of himself, "I did not know what to make of Elvis, or his music. I did not care, but I saw the reaction of the audience says and it was enough for me".Parker promptly realised that Elvis was his own ticket to wealth."
Belard's new 260 page book's twenty three chapters include, 'The Hank Snow Affair', 'The Snowman', 'The Lost Years', 'The Narcissist', 'World Wide Tour', 'What Could Have Been' and 'Exposing The Con Man'.
The author makes his disdain for Parker known from the outset and he does not hold back about what he sees as one of, if not the biggest, travesties and examples of unscrupulous mismanagement, in show business history!
The book is a very strong read and one that is very much a counterpoint to the recently published "rose colored glasses" account, 'Elvis and the Colonel: An Insider's Look At The Most Legendary Partnership In Show Business', by Parker employee Greg McDonald and Marshall Terrill.
Some fans have suggested that Baz Luhrmann’s 2022 ELVIS drama made Parker out to be too much of a cartoon villain but after reading this book the movie looks even more truthful than fans might have believed. ... Go here and read EIN's detailed review by glimmer twins Nigel Patterson and Piers Beagley (Book Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
(Interview) Paul Alner author of 'Elvis On Record The Definitive Guide to UK Record Releases 1956-1965 Vol.1': In a fascinating interview with EIN and Elvis Day By Day, Paul Alner discusses why he decided to produce two new volumes about Elvis’ UK vinyl canon, how his books differ from the Elvis UK releases, what readers can expect to find in the new books, rare Elvis UK vinyl, Elvis’ demo discs, vinyl’s recent renaissance, and a lot more!
Questions include..
- Which Elvis record was the hardest to find?
- What were some of the most unexpected discoveries during your research?
- Which record do you think is the rarest UK record release?
'Elvis: Summer of '76' FTD In-depth Review: This new FTD set features three 1976 concerts, Charleston A/S July 24,Springfield E/S July 29 and Hampton Roads
A/S August 1.
Things started going terribly wrong for Elvis in 1976. The beauty and on-stage power that he still exuded the previous year was fast fading away. Elvis' third tour of 1976 was one of his worst. Starting just 10 days after Elvis fired Red, Sonny West and Dave Hebler he was not in a good way.
Despite already releasing 27 concerts from this rather sad year, FTD have released yet another three 1976 performances and they are not good.
Collectors of course will appreciate that FTD have included two previously unknown soundboards here and they do help us explore what state our hero was in for his 1976 summer. However Elvis was obviously not in a good way which makes them rather sad.... Elvis soundboard super-collector Geoffrey McDonnell along with EIN's Piers Beagley explore this new FTD 1976 triple- pack to see whether fans could learn anything new... (FTD Reviews, Source;GM/ElvisInformationNetwork)
'Elvis in Print: A Comprehensive Annotated and Illustrated Bibliography 1955-2023 Volume 1' UPDATE: This comprehensive new book was due to be published this month but has been delayed due to editing issues and the discovery of more than 70 new titles and/or editions. A revised publication date for the nearly 500-page book will be announced soon. (non-final cover image pictured)
Compiled and written by EIN's Nigel Patterson, the four volumes of Elvis in Print: A Comprehensive Annotated & Illustrated Bibliography 1955-2023 will comprise around 2,000 pages, with listings for more than 4,000 books and around 2,000 images.
Volume 1 is the first of two detailing English language, “non-fiction” releases. It contains close to 500 pages, listings for more than 800+ titles, book covers for more than 500 listings, and interesting Sidebar articles discussing controversial releases and issues in the massive Elvis book catalog.
Sections in Elvis in Print Volume 1 include:
Academic Releases, Biographies, Compendiums: Catalogs, Discographies, Chart Histories, Interviews... Conspiracy Theories, Elvis and the Colonel, Elvis and the Law, Elvis as Art and Elvis as Religion (including Psychic Experiences and Spirituality)...
The 'Listings' include original releases, subsequent re-issues , (including digital editions) and a book synopsis. 'Elvis in Print' will be published in hardcover, softcover, and Kindle formats. It will be available from Amazon stores (the hardcover edition will only be available in those countries where Amazon offers this format).
EIN will publish more information soon. (News, Source;NP/EIN)
Lisa Marie Presley’s memoir – due out this year!: Riley Keough is collaborating on release of her mother's memoir for later this year. Lisa Marie Presley started writing the book before she died and Riley Keough has completed it.
One year after Lisa Marie's unexpected death, Random House revealed that the singer was writing a memoir about her high-profile and complicated life as the sole child of Elvis and Priscilla Presley. In a shared statement the publisher said that Presley asked her daughter to help finish the book before she died.
Lisa Marie died on Jan. 12, 2023, at 54 after she suffered a cardiac episode at her Calabasas home. The L.A. County Medical Examiner determined in July that Presley died from complications of a small bowel obstruction, which was linked to previous bariatric surgery.
Keough, star of “Daisy Jones & the Six” and “Mad Max: Fury Road” initially held off on collaborating on the book but picked up where her mother left off after Presley died.
“Riley carried a guilt that the world would never know the loving, joyful, and caring woman that she knew and grieved,” the statement said.
To complete the memoir, Keough listened to hours of Presley’s recordings, which touched on her father’s love, her complex mother-daughter relationship with Priscilla, her highly publicized romantic relationships and the 2020 death of her son Benjamin Keough.
The contents of the book are unknown, but what Random House calls Presley's "tumultuous" life certainly was eventful enough for
a provocative, thoughtful, and revealing memoir.
Described as the “most intimate look at the Presley family to date,” the yet untitled memoir is set to publish Oct. 15.
Keough said, “I was lucky to have had that opportunity and working on preparing her autobiography for publication has been a privilege, albeit a bittersweet one. I’m so excited to share my mom now, at her most vulnerable and most honest, and in doing so, I do hope that readers come to love my mom as much as I did.”
The publisher stated: "Born to an American myth and raised in the wilds of Graceland, Lisa Marie Presley was never truly understood . . . until now'
Editions of the book will also be translated into eight other languages including Spanish, German and Portuguese. An audiobook version of the memoir will also be released, read by Riley Keough and including "never-before-heard recollections in Lisa Marie’s own voice."
EIN Note: The history behind Lisa Marie’s memoir is quite confusing.
Lisa Marie signed her book deal with Gallery Books (a subsidiary of Simon & Shuster) in 2019. Reportedly, she received an advance of US$1M. In 2020, Penguin Random House made a bid for Simon & Shuster, but the sale was blocked, and a private equity firm, KKR ended up acquiring Simon & Shuster for US$1.6B.
News of Lisa Marie’s memoir first broke earlier this week, but two days before the formal announcement by Random House. Initially, the book was listed as being published Macmillan (a subsidiary of the Holtzbrinck Publishing Group). Following the formal announcement, the publisher listing was changed to Random House.
It is unclear how Penguin Random House attained the rights to Lisa Marie’s memoir.
(News, Source: Alexandras del Rosario, LA Times; John Beifuss, Commercial Appeal, Random House, Jim Milliot, Publisher’s Weekly, and EIN)
NOW UPDATED (Film Review) Priscilla – film by Sofia Coppola: While Baz Luhrmann’s major hit film in 2022, Elvis, was a colorful narrative and frenetic musical explosion, in 2023, Sofia Coppola’s, Priscilla, is more subdued, but still a colorfully hued and musically expressive story.
Coppola is an acclaimed filmmaker and director. Thematically, her films explore themes of identity, isolation, and the complexities of human relationships, and these underscore, Priscilla.
EIN’s Nigel Patterson recently watched the film that has divided the Elvis world.
Now updated with EIN READER comments...
We have had plenty of general negative feedback but also some lengthy and rather interesting discussions on the film.. EIN is also interested in hearing YOUR comments on the movie. (Film Review, Source:ElvisInformationNetwork)
MRS CAMDEN reviews: The UK MRS label have re-released 3 CD titles on its new alternate budget label 'MRS CAMDEN'. - One Night In Pearl Harbor 1CD
- Elvis On Television 1956 - 1960 2CD
- The Complete 1950's Live Recordings 3CD
All three were released late November 2023.
The releases on MRS CAMDEN are scaled-down budget versions priced for the mainstream market. The titles have slight changes from the original MRS deluxe versions and now come in a Digi-Sleeve packs with small booklets.
There are minor upgrades on each release but they still all pack a punch and cover important sections of Elvis' historical journey. Going from 1954 to 1961 it is one incredible rockin’ trip. EIN's Piers Beagley checks them out as possible Santa bonus treats...
If you are in the UK and order them on Amazon you can still get them delivered by Christmas Day! (CD Reviews; Source: ElvisInformationNetwork)
UPDATED- CD Review 'The Joan Deary Tapes Vol1' - and has Ernst won the war?’: Two years ago EIN posted an article suggesting that the Elvis bootleg era was over, that FTD and Ernst Jorgensen had truly won the war.
So it was a surprise to many that a new bootleg label ‘Joan Deary Inc’ suddenly popped up two months ago promising a very similar series of releases to the Madison ‘A Legendary Performer’ set.
They promised "Unique content... with never issued before outtakes. Some very different mixes among other glorious sounding tracks. Every track comes in great sound quality and has been remastered for optimal listening pleasure..."
EIN was suspicious from the start - to be honest I saw no need to purchase this CD - but several EIN readers wanted to know more before they put down their hard earned cash. Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley investigates to see if there is life in this new series of Elvis bootleg releases... Please read this before ordering we've done the work so that you don't have to! Now UPDATED with YOUR comments (CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
'ELVIS: Closing Night 1972' MRS CD Review: This MRS 2CD set features a live performance recorded on 4 September 1972,during the last night of Elvis’ seventh engagement in Las Vegas at the
Hilton Hotel.
The show is presented in stereo. A bonus CD of remastered rehearsal tracks, recorded days before the engagement began, is also included.
While Elvis is perhaps not as full-blast as on the 'Opening Night' here MRS's 'Studio D' engineer has done some brilliant audio remastering,
removing the bad cassette-tape-hiss of all previous releases. Emphasising the instrumentation with this "Stereo remaster" not only elevates Elvis and the musicians' performance but also places the listener right into the audience.
This night Elvis rocked into 'Johnny B. Goode' and even performed the golden-oldies with some real respect. It's a great show. Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley discovers something new in this re-release - the near perfect bookend to MRS' examination of Elvis’ 1972 Summer Festival.
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
Elvis in Literature #3 – ''Elvis's Man Friday' by Gene Smith: Continuing EIN’s occasional series of interesting and (hopefully) thought-provoking Elvis excerpts (references/discussions) found in general literature. Elvis's Man Friday by Elvis' first-cousin Gene Smith is an often forgotten "insider" memoir.
Elvis and Gene were very close from a young age, and Gene later became a prominent member of Elvis' Memphis Mafia.
In his book, published in hardcover (with dust jacket) in 1994, Gene recounted his time with Elvis in linear fashion, in what was a very readable, entertaining and informative release.
In particular, the reader is informed about a number of unusual things and Elvis' idiosyncrasies.
EIN wonders how many readers knew that Elvis and Gene had (for a while) their own secret language?...
'Elvis Forever 2023':Where were you when Elvis died? What were you doing? Throughout our lifetimes there are very few dates that resonate with such clarity.
While some key historical events such as 9/11 or the Boxing day 2004 Tsunami are remembered, other unique moments are lost as vague memories.
The day of Elvis' death I was recording a "best of Elvis" cassette for my best friend.
A lightning storm was raging through London, the rain pouring down outside when my Mother called upstairs, "Have you heard, Elvis Presley has died?" -
A moment never forgotten.
... I can guarantee you one thing: we will never again agree on anything as we agreed on Elvis.
The newspapers the next day told the story. Go here to EIN's 'Elvis Forever 2023' for emotional reminiscences and also those traumatic news headlines ...
The world would remember, everything would change, but in 2023 Elvis' legacy still lives on.. (Spotlight, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
(Film Review) Reinventing Elvis: The ’68 Comeback…..”a battle for artistic integrity”: EIN’s Nigel Patterson recently immersed himself at the cinema watching John Scheinfeld’s documentary film, Reinventing Elvis: The ’68 Comeback (based on Steve Binder’s account of the making of Elvis’ legendary Special). Reinventing Elvis takes a deeper dive into the making of the Comeback Special, featuring interviews from some of the surviving performers and audience members, as well as Presley experts placing it in the context of the times and the singer's career.
Nigel left the cinema after viewing a fascinating and illuminating account full of drama, humor, and ultimately reclamation. Read Nigel’s full review
'Elvis On Tour' Box-Set In-Depth Review:The January 2023 'Elvis On Tour' SONY release is a 6CD / 1 Blu-Ray box set comprised of the audio from four of the shows (and two rehearsals) that were part of Elvis’ 1972 North American tour.
Originally recorded for the Elvis On Tour concert film that was released later that year, the set features a total of 145 tracks, including 91 previously unreleased tracks, as well as the award-winning concert film on Blu-ray.
RCA/Legacy's Elvis On Tour box set is produced by Ernst Jørgensen and mixed by Grammy Award-winning Memphis-based producer Matt Ross-Spang.
Elvis' April 1972 concerts were magnificent, so hopefully this expensive 50th anniversary release including newly remastered concert performances captures the magnificence and excitement of the movie and Elvis' stunning shows.
After fifty years surely SONY/RCA will get it right.....
'The Elvis RCA Camden Collection' EIN Spotlight:Most fans have had a love-hate relationship with Elvis' Camden collections. On one hand they are seen as an artistic misstep being released at a time when Elvis was back riding high on the charts saturating the market with a series of albums containing little-known songs. Yet on the other hand many younger fans used these budget collections as a way to enter the amazing world of Elvis’ vast back-catalogue.
The RCA Camdens featured the first release of an Elvis live recording, 19 previously unreleasedtracks and 58 tracks previously unreleased on an album. That is quite impressive even if Col Parker only had his increased revenue as the main goal.
Now updated with Readers' Feedback - Read this fascinating article and tell us YOUR THOUGHTSabout Elvis' Camden releases... EIN contributor Neil Colombari reveals all...
(Spotlight; Source;Neil Colombari/ElvisInfoNet)
(Book Review) Elvis Live At The International 50th Anniversary Edition (Kieran Davis): In 2011, Kieran Davis released the highly praised book, Elvis Live At The International. In 2022, he has published an expanded 50th Anniversary edition…and what an expansion it is!
The latest edition dwarfs the original with 432 pages compared to 172 in the original release.
And the added 250+ pages of additional material is stunning, making the 50th Anniversary release one of the best Elvis books published in 2022.
As its title reflects, the book covers Elvis' appearances at the International Hotel in Las Vegas between 1969 and 1971 (it was renamed the Las Vegas Hilton in July 1971). The narrative element is significantly based around fan, Peggy Elzea’s copious diaries, and a bumper array of archival material. Peggy’s experience seeing Elvis in Las Vegas is one every fan will envy. There is so much fascinating information and so many striking images in the book that it is hard to know where to start in describing it...
Don't miss out on one of EIN's most-viewed and controversial interviews of all-time - Mike Stone tells all.
EIN Interview with Mike Stone: Mike Stone has had a long and successful career in athletics, in the entertainment business, as an author, sports instructor, bodyguard and personal fitness trainer.
Mike Stone was also a key figure in the emotional roller-coaster that described Elvis and Priscilla Presley's lives in the seventies. In this exclusive EIN interview Priscilla's ex-partner, karate champion and author talks about his amazing life, including... - Meeting Elvis and Priscilla
- Hawaii, Elvis and Karate
- Being Phil Spector's bodyguard
- Sitting next to John Lennon recording
- Priscilla and karate
- Fans blaming him for Elvis' marriage split-up
- Elvis putting a "Hit" out on him
- Finding peace in the Philippines
- His new autobiography
UPDATED- The collapse of the Elvis Bootleg Empire: Has Ernst won the war?’: Back in 1999 Ernst Jorgensen and Roger Semon convinced BMG to let them start the FTD collectors label in order to counteract the Elvis bootleg companies which had been selling unreleased material to fans since the very first vinyl bootleg 'Please Release Me' was issued back in 1970.
Of all the bootleg labels that have come and gone the 'Madison' label was one of the very few that always produced high-quality releases and which happened to start at the same time as FTD. The designs were top-notch and with detailed sleeve notes they easily competed with the legal Elvis releases.
In 2021 ‘Madison’ have returned with the new bootleg ‘A Legendary Performer Volume 9’ but all is not what was promised. The Elvis bootleg vaults are empty and FTD appears to have won the game. Go here as EIN’s Piers Beagley checks out the lack of new material and considers the bootleg era at an end... And EIN wants YOUR SAY -Our article is now updated with YOUR FEEDBACK - and more... (Spotlight; Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
Don't forget that EIN's Elvis Facebook page regularly features fabulous RARE newly discovered photos of Elvis. This month EIN celebrates our 45,000 members! - including several of Elvis' own friends and colleagues So Elvis fans don't miss out on these rare and exciting photographs.
Now with over thousands of great photos, News and with more added every day – including YouTube footage.
Elvis "BACK ON DVD!": Paramount have re-released three classic Elvis movies this month on DVD. 'G.I. Blues'- BACK ON DVD! The year was 1960... 'Girls! Girls! Girls!' - BACK ON DVD! The year was 1962... 'Paradise, Hawaiian Style'- BACK ON DVD! The year was 1966...
From Paramount Pictures.-
Release date: March 12, 2021.
From Amazon for $14.99. (News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
Elvis LIVE Aug 23, 1969 Album Review + Elvis Concert Review 1969: ..."The atmosphere throughout the entire hotel was nail-bitingly electric! It is difficult for me to describe and paint a true portrait of attending in person this unique occasion - Elvis' Return to Splendor LIVE in 1969 - but I'll try my best. I want, and hope, you will understand the excitement of what has to be the pinnacle of Elvis' career to date!" Joan Gansky was lucky because not only was she in the audience for Elvis' TV musical renaissance of the '68 NBC Special but she also saw Elvis at his most dynamic - first at his August 22nd 1969 Midnight Show and then the following night at his August 23rd Dinner Show. Joan Gansky has written this insightful and emotional article for EIN in 2019, fifty years later, looking back at this special event from 1969 as well as providing her review of the new RCA vinyl album of the August 23rd Dinner Show. One of EIN's most important articles we have ever published- Go here for Joan and Paul Gansky's incredible articles and exclusive photos
(Review/Spotlight, 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..
Mindi Miller Interview with EIN: Mindi Miller was a working actress when she met Elvis in early 1975. She was interested in karate (she performed all her own movie stunts), exploring spirituality and the Bible and so they had a lot in common. Mindi Miller and Elvis bonded over their common interests and soon afterwards he asked her to go on tour with him in April 1975.
She stayed friends with Elvis through the years - along with members of the 'Memphis Mafia' - and attended his funeral.
EIN's Sanja Meegin recently caught up with Mindi Miller to talk about her close friendship with Elvis over the years.
In this fascinating interview she discusses. . . - Her first night with Elvis
- How Elvis persuaded her to cancel her overseas movie & modelling plans
- Their mutual interest in Karate
- Graceland and meeting Lisa Marie
- Attending Elvis' funeral . . . and much much more... Go here for EIN's Sanja Meegin and her intimate and detailed discussion with the delightful Mindi Miller - Now with Reader Feedback.
'Marty Lacker: A Life Well-Lived' & Elvis at American Studio's Interview: It was with immense sadness that last month EIN had to report on the death of our great friend - and a true friend to Elvis - Marty Lacker. We will miss him dearly. Marty is well-known as one of the key members of the Memphis Mafia and also co-Best Man at Elvis' wedding. He was known for both his honesty and being forthright with his opinions. He was the only member of the Memphis Mafia who still watched and commented on recent Elvis News. He had no issue with holding people to account (especially ones who would inflate their importance within Elvis' legacy) and would regularly ask EIN to add his comments or to correct any inaccuracy. Elvis fans often ask about Marty Lacker's background, how he came to meet Elvis, as well as his involvement in the music industry outside of working for The King.
As a prelude to Ken Sharp's fascinating interview with Marty Lacker and a discussion about Elvis' famous American Studio' Memphis sessions, EIN presents "Marty Lacker: a life well-lived" in which Marty tells of his life in the music industry, his friendship with Elvis along with his dislike of the over-controlling Col Parker. Go here to learn all you need to know about Marty Lacker as well as Elvis outstanding Memphis American Sound sessions in 1969. (Spotlight; Source,KenSharp/ElvisInformationNetwork)
'The World of FTD' In-Depth Review: The new deluxe book 'The World Of FTD' has been received by some lucky fans and Elvis collector Mike Lodge has provided EIN with a very detailed review - of well over 3 thousand words! The book was authored and designed by Keith Flynn with input from a large number of other Elvis specialists including EIN's Piers Beagley, EM&HM's Trevor Cajiao, Geoffrey McDonnell, Gordon Minto and many others. It is 1,200 pages, hardbound three book set, chronicling every release by FTD.The book also features 100s of high-quality photos from the collection Erik Lorentzen
KJ Consulting are proud to publish this Box Set which weighs 8 kilos.
Paul Dowling EIN Interview Part Three: Paul Dowling is without doubt one of the major names in the Elvis World. He started collecting and selling Elvis vinyl over 40 years ago and has one of the world's largest Elvis Presley record collections. He started his "WorldWide Elvis" shop back in the seventies, way before the internet, where fans could get hold of rare Elvis records and memorabilia.
With such a fascination with Elvis, Dowling not only became a big name in the early years of Elvis bootlegs but later became friends with Ernst Jorgensen and helped RCA with various official releases.
In the final part of our fascinating interview Paul Dowling discusses .... - Dodging the FBI agents that were sent after him
- Unreleased Elvis material that still hasn’t come out
- Why does Ernst Jorgensen doubt this claims
- His BMG project 'For The First Time Ever' - what happened
- The true story of obtaining the Million Dollar Quartet tape
- His thoughts on Paul Lichter, Sean Saver, Sherif Hanna, Rex Martin
- Spending time with Alan Fortas
- Jim Curtin, newly added story
'Ultimate Elvis' New Electronic Edition: Announced by Elvis sessions expert Keith Flynn for publication November 1 is the brand new concept of the 1750 page super-deluxe Elvis sessions book 'Ultimate Elvis' Electronic Edition.
This incredible three volume book will now be available as an e-book on an i-pad or android tablet. - Created in HTML5
Fully updated e-books will open in any web browser on any operating system, so no need for separate downloads for different operating systems. - Life-Like 'Flipping' Pages
Flip through pages as if you are reading an actual book, but also being able to zoom-in to view smaller images and captions.
- View as Double or Single pages
View as double pages on a computer or laptop etc, and single pages when viewing in portrait on an i-pad or Android tablet. - Fully Navigational Table Of Contents
Jump back and forth to the sections of the books you want to read, instead of flipping through numerous pages to find what you want. PRICED AT - all 3 Volumes for £60 = US$93
On sale from November 1st 2015. Try Before You Buy -
Download free zip-file containing 27 pages from Volume 1, before you decide to buy the complete set. -
NOTE - These books are MASSIVE so you will need approximately 1GB of spare disc space for these three volumes, -
Click HERE to Keith Flynn's 'Ultimate Elvis' Electronic Edition to try.
Go HERE to EIN's independent review of 'Ultimate Elvis' (News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
Did Elvis Record 'Tiger Man' At Sun?: A question that has puzzled Elvis fans through the years is whether he actually recorded the song ‘Tiger Man’ during his years at SUN studios.
The basic question is why did Elvis refer to 'Tiger man' several times in concert as “The second song that I ever recorded, not too many people heard it”?
And if Elvis DID record it, then why hasn’t any reference to it at SUN or proof of its existence been found?
Elvis would first perform ‘Tiger Man’ in concert at his first 1969 Las Vegas International season and would continue playing it through the years – usually in a medley with Mystery Train - until his last performance at Saginaw on May 3 1977. He would sing it over 150 times on stage! The thought that there might be an acetate or undiscovered tape of Elvis at SUN singing ‘Tiger Man’ is a mouth-watering concept - but is it an unlikely fantasy or strong possibility?
Go here to our detailed 'TIGER MAN' spotlight as EIN's Piers Beagley puts in the hard yards to check the facts from the fantasy . (Spotlight; Source;ElvisInfoNetwork)
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If you believe we have used copyrighted material please contact us and we will remove it immediately.
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The printed newsletters have extra content, articles and reviews to this website along with the popular Elvis EIN Mega Quiz.
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