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News, articles, reviews, interviews and websites for:
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the world of the Elvis tribute artist
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Elvis related events
EIN sincerely thanks Charmaine Voisine who provides many of the items on this page.
Visit Charmaine's Elvis Graphics page
Please note that due to the very large number of items received by EIN it is not always possible to add everyone to this page. We do our best but there are only so many hours in the day (unfortunately)
Tribute artist web sites
Click to visit tribute site for......Jimmy "Orion" Ellis
EIN apologises for the lack of updating of this page! Almost Elvis is one of our most popular pages but time constraints prevent us from giving it the attention it deserves! (EIN, Oct 2008)
Record number of ETA prelims to find the 2012 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist: A record number of preliminary contests will be taking place around the world as part of the sixth annual search for the “Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist.” Contestants will be chosen at licensed preliminary venues being held at fairs, festivals, theaters and other venues.
The semifinal rounds and final round will be held during Elvis Week 2012 which will take place in Memphis , August 10 - 18, 2012.
“In 2012, during the 35th anniversary, you’ll see Elvis’ life and legacy celebrated with concerts, festivals, special events and unique product releases taking place in countries around the world,” said Scott Williams, Vice President of Marketing and Media for EPE.
“These contests give Elvis fans worldwide an opportunity to experience his music in a fun and unique way that we’ve seen continue to grow in popularity.”
Judges at each venue will look for the “best representation of the Elvis legacy” in vocals, style, stage wear and stage presence. The best overall performer will be named the “2012 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist.”
In addition to the preliminary contests, fans can also enjoy some of the previous ultimate Elvis tribute artists on tour now in Elvis Lives: The Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Event, which is performing in 29 U.S. cities through March 19, 2012. |
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The 2011 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest winner, Cody Slaughter, can be seen performing the role of Elvis in the North American tour of “Million Dollar Quartet” and 2008 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest winner, Brandon Bennett, is performing the role of Elvis in the Chicago cast of “Million Dollar Quartet.”
Preliminary rounds of the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest that have occurred or are in the planning stages at this time include:
Tweed Tribute to Elvis Festival |
August 26 – 28, 2011 |
Tweed, Ontario, Canada |
New England Elvis Festival |
September 2 – 4, 2011 |
Manchester, N.H. |
Rockin' E Jamboree at Oneida Casino |
September 14 – 16, 2011 |
Green Bay, Wis. |
Elvis FANtasy Fest |
October 14 – 16, 2011 |
Portage, Ind. |
Pocono Mountains Elvis Festival |
October 21 – 23, 2011 |
Bushkill, Pa. |
Elvis Birthday Bash and Ultimate
Elvis Tribute Artist Contest |
January 6 – 11, 2012 |
Surfers Paradise, Queensland, Australia |
The 2012 Elvis Cruise |
January 12 – 16, 2012 |
Nassau, Bahamas |
“Fill the Blue Suede Shoes”
Elvis Tribute Artist Contest |
March 3, 2012 |
Ocala, Fla. |
Third Look for Japanese Elvis |
March 11, 2012 |
Osaka, Japan |
Rockin' Elvis Fest at Pala Casino |
March 16 – 18, 2012 |
Pala, Calif. |
Branson Elvis Festival
Presented by Legends in Concert |
April 20 – 22, 2012 |
Branson, Mo. |
Toronto Elvis Festival |
April 20 – 22, 2012 |
Mississauga, Ontario, Canada |
Philadelphia Elvis Fest |
May 4 – 6, 2012 |
Philadelphia, Pa. |
Las Vegas Ultimate ETA Contest
Presented by Legends in Concert |
May 11 – 12, 2012 |
Las Vegas, Nev. |
Hawaii Ultimate ETA Contest
Presented by Legends in Concert |
May 19, 2012 |
Waikiki, Hawaii |
Tupelo Elvis Festival |
May 31 – June 3, 2012 |
Tupelo, Miss. |
LakeGeorge.com Elvis Festival |
May 31 – June 3, 2012 |
Lake George, N.Y. |
Wintersun Festival |
June 1 – 11, 2012 |
Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, Australia |
Atlantic City Ultimate ETA Contest
Presented by Legends in Concert |
June 9, 2012 |
Bally’s, Atlantic City, N.J. |
Rockin' Elvis Fest at Oneida Casino |
June 18 – 20, 2012 |
Green Bay, Wis. |
Penticton Elvis Festival |
June 22 – 24, 2012 |
Penticton, British Columbia, Canada |
Myrtle Beach Ultimate ETA Contest
Presented by Legends in Concert |
June 30, 2012 |
Myrtle Beach, S.C. |
Rockin’ Elvis Fest at Harrah’s
Cherokee Casino & Hotel |
July 19 – 21, 2012 |
Cherokee, N.C. |
Collingwood Elvis Festival |
July 26 – 29, 2012 |
Collingwood, Ontario, Canada |
Hard Rock Cafe
Last Chance Ultimate ETA Contest |
August 10 – 12, 2012 |
Memphis, Tenn.
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For more information on how to compete in these preliminary rounds or attend to cheer on your favorite Elvis tribute artist, visit our Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest website. (Source: Google News, Feb 2012)
Four phases of Elvis feature distinct differences: If you're playing Elvis Presley during the "movie" years, there's a lot of exercise involved.
"You've got stay physically fit and active," says Kevin Mills, the performer charged with capturing that era in "Elvis Lives," a Presley-sanctioned stage show. "Elvis is a good-looking man so you've got to make sure you're in shape."
And in the later years? Mills laughs. "He always looked good. We remember him as the 'healthy' Elvis."
The show -- slated to play the Orpheum Theatre Monday -- covers four periods -- the early years, the movie years, the concert years and the jumpsuit years. Four singers play the roles; an Ann-Margret impersonator joins Mills for some of those movie songs.
"There's a lot of choreography in the show," he says. "And Lori Russo, who plays Ann-Margret, is the best in the business."
Naturally, the two do songs from "Viva Las Vegas" and kindle warm thoughts of the '60s. The voice? "Elvis' voice was higher then and he was more suave than in the early years."
Opposite: Unidentified ETA not part of "Elvis Lives" |
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Six dancers join the segment for some heart-pounding choreography. To get the proper look, Mills says, it takes an hour of makeup and hair. "I have his features -- the jaw and the cheekbones. But it takes some time to create the illusion." When he's not part of the "Elvis Lives" tour, Mills performs in the "Legends" show in Atlantic City.
The gig? It came about on a lark. "I sang in a rockabilly band in the late '80s and I entered a contest as Elvis. There were 80 guys in jumpsuits and I beat them all." After that, Mills was hired to play the role on cruise ships and, for the better part of two decades, Mills has been recreating the King on a nightly basis. "It's awesome," he says. "There's no other character I could imagine doing. Because of his energy and what he brought to the stage, it's exciting."
And, thanks to "Elvis Lives," The King is constantly getting new fans. Elvis Presley Enterprises is responsible for keeping the singer's music alive. "They rebranded his name and introduced him to a new generation," Mills says. Now, at the touring production of "Elvis Lives," casual fans are becoming diehard ones. "We get a standing ovation every night," Mills says. "They love it."
To stay in the hunt, however, takes work. Mills says he has performed routinely in Elvis competitions, placing third in 2009 and second in 2010. Additionally, he performed at Bill Clinton's inauguration. The secret to recalling Presley's essence lies in study, Mills says. "We look at videos to get his mannerisms, his voice. The four of us are always doing that." Those movies Elvis made? "The first four were awesome but the rest were silly," Mils says. "He hated doing them."
Elvis' acting ability? "I thought he was pretty good."
While Mills ventures to Graceland every August (for memorial festivities), he's not a groupie. "I don't have anything Elvis in my home -- nothing on the walls." Instead, he likes the man's image and says it's tough to live up to. "If he were alive today, I think he'd be producing," the former Toronto resident says. "I don't know if he'd be performing. But he'd still be in the industry. He couldn't just walk away." (Source: Bruce R. Miller, siouxcityjournal.com/EIN, 1 Feb 2012)
Details:
What: "Elvis Lives"
When: 7:30 p.m. Monday
Where: Orpheum Theatre
Tickets: Available at all Ticketmaster outlets.
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Jewelry Store 'Takes Care of Business,' Elvis-Style: For most of his life, Tim New has had two separate passions – Elvis Presley and custom jewelry. Now, he has combined them both at the store he owns, New Jewelers Beaver Ruin Road in Norcross.
On Saturday, New’s collection was on display in a corner case during a customer appreciation party. He held up a figurine of Elvis that turned out to be an unopened decanter of bourbon.
On the shelves were numerous souvenirs devoted to the King, ranging from collector’s edition newspapers to a knife decorated with images of Elvis. |
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Two heart-shaped Valentine’s candy boxes also paid tribute to Elvis: One featured a photo of a young Elvis driving a car. The other was wrapped in a miniature Elvis costume. There was a 45 record of the song “Just Because” and an 8-track tape of the singer’s last studio album “Moody Blue,” with a Turtles store price tag still on it for $5.99. New, 48, has been collecting Elvis souvenirs since he was 11, although he admits he has become more avid within the past decade. Many items in his collection were given to him by store customers, he said.
“Many folks come to the store because of their love and admiration for Elvis and his career,” New said. “They know I’m such a big fan. There are so many people out there who are Elvis fans too. This is the pinnacle of the tribute to Elvis.”
For the party, New hired an Elvis tribute artist, Doug Thompson of Hoschton, who has been performing as Elvis since kindergarten and recently turned 40. The two men met at a Christmas tree lighting in Braselton and became friends. Outside the store, customers, friends and family nibbled on food and waited for Thompson to take the “stage.” Dilyse Herring, whose husband works at the store, was there to enjoy the food and music. “I have a lot of Elvis records. I grew up with a lot of his songs,” she said.
In a back room, Thompson and New chatted with a friend, Lee Secrest, who surprised New with a gift: an enlarged photograph of Elvis performing. Secrest has given New several similar photos, including a picture he took of Elvis leaving the Macon Coliseum about a month before he died in 1977, which hangs on the wall of the shop.
As long as he has been an Elvis fan, New has been in the jewelry business. He followed in the footsteps of his father, Harry L. New, who started the jewelry company in 1960. After his death in 2006, the younger New took over the business, moving it from La Vista Road to its current location on Beaver Ruin Road and shortening the name. The store specializes in custom jewelry, repair and estate pieces. Indeed, Thompson, dressed as Elvis, flashed a large ring that New had made for him. Fashioned of sterling silver, yellow gold and diamonds, it features a TCB logo – Taking Care of Business, an emblem dear to the King.
“I feel like Elvis when I’m wearing it,” Thompson said. (Dec 2011 Source: NorcrossPatch.com)
New England Elvis Festival in September: The New England Elvis Festival returns to the Radisson Hotel, Manchester, NH, September 2-4, 2011. Featuring twenty of the world's top Elvis Tribute Artists (ETAs) competing for over $3,500 in prize money and the chance to represent New England at the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest in Memphis.
This year's big Saturday night show will feature the newest sensation in the Elvis world, a young man from England, Ben Portsmouth who will star along with Robert Washington.
We are also proud to present Elvis' friend, confidant and bodyguard Sonny West telling Stories about Elvis on our main stage as a prelude to Saturday's show.
The Festival will also feature an Elvis collectibles sale, a Friday night Champion's Set, plus the free Sunday Morning Elvis Gospel Music Contest.
Go here if you want more info.
(News, Source;NewEnglandElvisFestival)
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Silas Lulic, Acclaimed Elvis Tribute Artist from Melbourne has entertained regularly at Crown Casino Melbourne for the past 3 years running and a regular feature at the Elvis NSW Parkes Festival Main Stage and Parkes Services Club for the past 5 years, along with the honor of winning the title of Elvis Idol two years running. Silas is well know for his large array of authentic costumes, guitars and more, being able to provide a spectacular experience for all.
With his attention to detail The Extremely Elvis Show recreates the essence of Elvis Presley, paying homage right from his humble beginnings, to the most memorable moments of the Kings Career.
For More Inforamtion: www.trybooking.com.au/UFX
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A Special Evening To Honor Sonny West: Don't miss an exciting Evening of ELVIS Music, Memories and Celebrity Guests in Honor of Sonny West TUESDAY AUGUST 30, 2011 in the Las Vegas Imperial Palace Hotel, Main Showroom. . 5 pm to 8 pm. Join Pete "Big Elvis" Vallee as he hosts top Elvis Tribute Artists, Musical Entertainers & Celebrity Guests Honoring SONNY WEST.
People with Elvis connections who will be attending this event are: Sam Thompson, Dick Grob, Charles Stone, Jimmy Velvet, Loanne Parker (Col's Widow), Co-Stars Cynthia Pepper and Darlene Tompkins, Jerome "Stump" Monroe (Drummer for the Sweet Inspirations), Elvis friends/fans/authors, Sandi Miller, Sandi Pichon, Sue McCasland and others. Please get your tickets so you don't miss this fun-filled, worthy event!
(News, Source;SandiPichon) |
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2011 Elvis Week Ultimate ETA Contest: EIN realizes that there is ONLY ONE ELVIS – however the Memphis Ultimate ETA Contests are very popular with a large number of fans, especially during Elvis Week.
EPE reports that there is still time to make your plans to be in Memphis for Elvis Week 2011 when 26 of the best Elvis tribute artists in the world take the stage to compete for the title of Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist of 2011. Held at the historic Orpheum Theatre in downtown Memphis, this will be one event ETA fans will not want to miss.
Tickets are still available for both the semifinal and final rounds on August 11 and 12.
To purchase tickets, click here.
EPE has its own page for Ultimate ETA Contests – Go here if you need to know more.
(News, Source;EPE/EIN)
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Silas Lulic set for Elvis Week: He's a long way from Graceland, but that doesn't stop Silas Lulic pulling on the blue suede shoes. The Australian concreter from Melbourne and Elvis impersonator is gearing up for Elvis Week this week, when the King's disciples around the world celebrate his life and music.
Mr Lulic, 32, says he has been a life-long fan of Presley, but his performances have become more frequent over the past five years and he plans to make it his full-time job.
"I'm looking forward to putting down the tools and picking up the microphone," he said, adding that he didn't have a favourite Elvis song.
Elvis Week coincides with the anniversary of the King's death on August 16.
Mr Lulic said his obsession with Presley sometimes came at a cost.
"I can't tell you how much I spend on hair products," he said "It's something that Elvis performers often talk to each other about." Go here to his own website.
(News, Source:AusNews)
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12th Annual Elvis Festival in Costa Mesa, CA: Another Elvis Festival in Costa Mesa, California, following Elvis Week. The curled lip, the intense gaze and the swiveling hips… Elvis Presley’s spirit is kept alive and well via the burning desire of other men to emulate him. The King of Rock-n-Roll remains the most imitated performer on earth and many of them will come together to pay homage to him during the 12th Annual Elvis Festival August 21, 2011 from 9am to 4pm at the Orange County Market Place, the weekend swap meet at the O.C. Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa.
The annual event themed "Elvis in Hollywood" will have seven tribute artists performing songs from Presley’s motion pictures. Though Elvis was only 42 years old when he died, there is no age cap on those who choose to emulate him.
The Elvis Festival is held in conjunction with the weekend swap meet at the Orange County Fairgrounds, which features nearly 1,000 merchants selling a variety of products and services. Since 1969 the Orange County Market Place has been held every Saturday and Sunday. Hours are 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. All events at Elvis Festival are included in the price of admission to the swap meet, which is $2 for general, and free for children 12 and under.
GO HERE FOR Festival INFO
(News, Source,ElvisFestivalCostaMesa)
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'One Night With You' - August shows in Melbourne: In 1968, Elvis made a comeback and in 2011, Mark Andrew recreates The King at his best! A special 2 hour musical presentation starring Mark Andrew and hosted by Frankie J Holden is booked for AUGUST 19/20 in Melbourne, Australia.
In June 1968, Elvis made a memorable comeback with an NBC TV special. It is famous for the great looks of Elvis in his prime, wearing a black leather outfit. 40 + years on, Frankie J Holden will narrate the stories of this event, and the magical show will be brought back to life with a re-enactment from well acclaimed performer Mark Andrew, backed by a 10 piece band and 4 show girls.
The show will feature many segments from this '68 special never performed on a live stage before. The second part of the show, the audience will be treated to a plethora of Elvis hits as Mark recreates Elvis in Concert.
Dates - Friday, 19 August and Saturday, 20 August 2011
Click here for more info
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
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'68 Special Director Added to Las Vegas Elvis Fest Lineup: Steve Binder, director and producer of the 1968 'Comeback Special' has just been added to the July Las Vegas Elvis Fest lineup! Binder will talk about his experiences working on what is now commonly referred to as the '68 Comeback Special. It was one of the biggest TV hits of the year, receiving 40% of the viewing audience, and rave reviews from the public and critics alike.
The Las Vegas Elvis Fest is on July 28-30, 2011 at the Las Vegas Hilton. Other featured speakers include Gene Lubas, artistic director for Viva ELVIS by Cirque du Soleil; Sam Thompson, Elvis' friend and security head; Joe Moscheo and Terry Blackwood of Elvis' Imperials; Estelle Brown of the Sweet Inspirations; and DJ Fontana, Elvis' original drummer and Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame inductee. The event will be hosted by Elvis' road manager and close friend Joe Esposito.
For more information and a complete schedule of Las Vegas Festival events, Click here
(News, Source;LasVegas) |
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- Las Vegas Elvis Festival Details Announced: The first annual Las Vegas Elvis Fest will be held at the legendary Las Vegas Hilton on July 28-30, 2011. As the home to Elvis' record breaking sold out Las Vegas run, there's no better place outside of Memphis to surround yourself in the sights and sounds of the King of Rock 'n' Roll!
The three-day event will be hosted by one of Elvis’ closest friends, Joe Esposito, and will feature over forty of the world’s top Elvis tribute artists participating in a Tribute Artist Showcase, the Heart of the King Awards Concert, and the special recreation of Elvis’ "That’s the Way it Is" concert featuring Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Shawn Klush. He'll appear on stage with Elvis’ back up singers The Sweet Inspirations, Elvis’ Imperials and comedian Sammy Shore who opened for Elvis during the original show.
Other highlights on tap throughout the weekend will include Elvis collectibles, Elvis at the Hilton memorabilia displays, after hours parties and events, discounted tickets to Viva Elvis by Cirque du Soleil, tours of Elvis’ dressing room, and a special celebrity forum where Elvis fans will be able to meet many of Elvis’ friends, confidants and movie co-stars.
Go here for more details.
(News, Source;EPE) - June 23 2011 |
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Dean Vegas Touring Australia last half of 2011. Elvis will Rock the Boat, Norfolk Island Experience and see below for Upcoming Shows. All the details at www.deanvegas.com
Female Elvis Impersonators Talk Shop; When Elvis Presley released his first album 55 years ago, men wanted to be like him and women wanted to be with him. But that concept has evolved. Now women want to be like Elvis, too.
In a sea of thousands of Elvis impersonators, three tribute artists stand out: Jacqueline Feilich of Australia, Laura Baxter Herbert of Massachusetts and Helen Anne Gately of Seattle.
These women -- all die-hard Elvis fans -- also moonlight as female Elvis tribute artists, or "ETAs," sporting bejeweled jumpsuits in homage to their all-time favorite singer.
Jacqueline Feilich, a lady Elvis tribute artist from Australia, is known as "She Is The King." She's been moonlighting as a female Elvis for the past 12 years, performing modern-day versions of the rock 'n' roll icon's classic songs.
Despite the male-dominated ETA industry, these lady Elvises each told AOL News that, over the years, they've learned to hold their own as female versions of the "King."
But that doesn't mean their paths haven't been challenging.
Feilich, a singer/songwriter who goes by the trademarked title "She Is The King," has been performing as a female Elvis for the past 12 years and full time as a corporate act for hire since 2006.
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Even with all the experience under her bedazzled belt, she said some audiences still second-guess her abilities as an ETA when she first hits the stage simply because she's a woman.
Feilich, however, is quick to remind the crowd that she's not trying to impersonate the King, but rather honor his legacy through her own modern-day interpretations of his music.
Feilich goes the natural route as well, keeping her black locks long and straight.
As for Laura Herbert, she's open to copying Elvis' coif -- color, sideburns and all.
She said the first time she ever dressed up as a lady Elvis was in 2002 for Halloween. Herbert went all out -- dying her short hair black and gluing some serious sideburns to her face. And, if it meant looking more like Elvis, she'd do it again.
Although being a female ETA certainly has its challenges, Feilich, Herbert and Gately aren't giving up their gigs anytime soon.
They said they'll continue performing as lady Elvises because, ultimately, they think the King would've wanted it that way.
"I really believe Elvis would've gotten a kick out of what I do. Many fans have said that he would've been proud of me," Feilich said.
"I would hope that Elvis would be flattered and find what I do to be sort of cute," Herbert added.
After all, Elvis was a ladies' man.
Go here to EIN's interview with Jacqueline Feilich.
Go here to the full AOL article plus videos "Breaking the Blue Suede Glass Ceiling: Female Elvis Impersonators Talk Shop"
(News, Source;AOL) |
Las Vegas Ultimate ETA Contest next weekend: The Second annual Las Vegas Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest preliminary round will be held at the world famous Fremont Street Experience, Friday, May 6 and Saturday, May 7. First prize is $2,500.00 cash plus qualification into the Semi-Final round of The Ultimate ETA Contest held during Elvis Week 2011. There will be prizes for second and third place finishers, other fantastic giveaways for participants and fans, and several special guest appearances. Contestant forms are available by clicking here. ETA entries will be limited for this prestigious event which produced last year’s Ultimate ETA Finals Champion, so enter early. The road to Memphis goes through Las Vegas.
Click here for info
(News, Source;EPE)
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Elvis Cruises from Sydney, Australia; As the Rock'n'Roll "Blue Suede Cruise" leaves Sydney this Saturday Nov 20 for a week's Rock'n'Rollin' on the high seas - another "The King Tribute Cruise" has been announced for November 2011!
The 2010 'Blue Suede Cruise' features 12 great acts performing 50's and & 60's Rock 'n' Roll over a week long cruise around the South Pacific Islands. Go here for 2010 "Blue Suede Cruise" info.
Meanwhile if you want to book ahead for 2011 check out "The King Tribute Cruise" (right) a 3 day cruise around the Pacific Ocean from Sydney, jam packed with award-winning entertainment performed by some of the worlds favourite Elvis tribute artists.
Go here for 2011 Elvis Tribute cruise info.
(News, Source;EIN'sbeenCruisin)
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Johnny Harra Passes Away: Well known Elvis impersonator Johnny Harra has died. EIN reported his hospitalisation two days ago. Johnny Harra portrayed the 'Older Elvis' in the classic movie "This Is Elvis" and he remains one of the very few people - who are not family - that were allowed to visit Elvis' bedroom after 1977 - to film the opening scene of the movie. Harra died from an obstruction in his lungs.
Johnny Harra started his career performing tributes to Elvis at the young age of only 11 years old.
Click here for an interesting Johnny Harra Interview from 1992
(News, Source;ElvisMatters/ElvisInfoNetwork) |
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New Shawn Klush Tour Dates and Las Vegas Announcement: EPE has officially licensed our upcoming event at the same location where Elvis made History, The Las Vegas Hilton. It will be bigger and better than ever with many new great additions and surprises. The dates are definite July 28th – July 30th, 2011. The new name of the event is "The Las Vegas Elvis Fest" (Heart of the King) We will inform you in advance, prior to the general public, when tickets will be on sale. There will also be a special discount code for Shawn Klush fans. We are in massive meetings over schedules, activities, prices, special guests and so much more. Tickets should be on sale in about a week. Performing in the same room where Elvis made history, with much of the same cast, is very special to Shawn and the guests will include Elvis’ Imperials, the Sweet Inspirations, DJ Fontana, Joe Esposito, Sammy Shore and so much more. Don’t miss the Elvis Event of the Year. Vegas here we come!
Shawn is touring the next few months and from July 22nd Shawn returns to headline the largest Elvis fest in Collingwood, Canada.
Click here for more info
(News, Source;ShawnKlush) |
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Priscilla Presley exhibits some wit! Glimpses Priscilla Presley'd wit recently surfaced during her return to Las Vegas to receive the Nevada Ballet Theatre's Woman of the Year honors.
As a pre-event reception was wrapping up Presley was taking a group photo with daughter Lisa Marie, rocker Vince Neil and his girlfriend, Alicia Jacobs.
"What a motley crew," she cracked, in a nod to Neil, the Mötley Crüe frontman who camped out in her Beverly Hills guesthouse a decade or so ago.
The story EIN likes was told by "American Idol" executive producer Nigel Lythgoe regaled the crowd with a classic story about Priscilla's fun-loving side.
Several years ago she and Lythgoe were crossing Las Vegas Boulevard when they spotted a young Elvis impersonator.
Lythgoe said Priscilla dashed up to the Elvis impressionist, removed her oversized sunglasses and said, "Remember me?"
(News, Source,VegasJournal/EIN) |
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Ultimate ETA winner, Justin Shandor, Due In Court: After the recent debacle of UK Elvis impersonator attacking James Burton's son come news that another Elvis impersonator, this time Justin Shandor, was ticketed earlier this month on charges of providing false information to police. Justin Shandor of Salem, Oregon recently won the EPE official 2010 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest title! Sheriff's deputies allege he lied about smoking marijuana before his performance at the Clearwater River Casino east of Lewiston. Shandor, who performed as Elvis at the casino's event center Jan. 16, was ticketed by officers after the show, according to misdemeanor charges filed in Nez Perce County Magistrate Court. Sheriff's deputies responded after reports two men walked to a Volkswagen and were allegedly seen passing a joint prior to the performance.
(News, Source; Charmaine/ElvisInfoNet)
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Tickets for 2011 Tupelo Elvis Festival On Sale Now: The 2011 Tupelo Elvis Festival is June 2-5. Join fans in Tupelo, Mississippi, the Birthplace of Elvis Presley, for a full weekend of fun and entertainment.
Events at the festival will include a 5K run, parade, movie poster exhibit, and Sunday gospel concert. There will also be live performances from artists such as Sonny Burgess and The Pacers with DJ Fontana.
Plus, there will be a 2011 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest preliminary round. The winner will get to compete in the semifinal round in Memphis during Elvis Week 2011. Applications for this Ultimate ETA preliminary round will be accepted through March 25, 2011. Download the entry form to participate!
Tickets for the 2011 Tupelo Elvis Festival are on sale now. Purchase them at the festival's office at 108 South Broadway in Tupelo, Mississippi or by calling 662-841-6598.
(News, Source;EPE) |
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Special Guests Announced for 2012 Elvis Cruise: The EPE January 2012 Elvis Cruise will feature even more entertainers than any previous Elvis cruise! Among the more than 40 entertainers on board the cruise will be internationally known recording artists Terry Mike Jeffrey and Andy Childs, 12 of the worlds most talented Elvis tribute artists, Elvis’ Imperials, the Holladay Sisters who backed up many of Elvis’ hits in the late 1960s, and The Memphis Boys, who were Elvis’ session players on his American Sound Studio recordings. Additional special guests include Elvis’ former music director Joe Guercio, photojournalist Al Wertheimer and ten co-stars from movies like "Kissin’ Cousins," "Speedway," "Girl Happy," and many others.
The cruise, held January 12 to 16, 2012, will help kick off the 35th anniversary year and will sail from Jacksonville, Florida, to Nassau, Bahamas on the Carnival Fascination.
Click here for more Elvis Cruise Info and the list of Cruise Special Guests.
(News, Source;ElvisCruise)
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Elvis Impersonator Assaults James Burton's son: In a story that shows real madness and craziness inhabit some Elvis impersonators, the organiser of a Birmingham Elvis Presley convention has been charged with attacking TCB Band James Burton's son. Jeff Burton suffered a broken nose and cheekbone and cuts to his face following an alleged assault at the Hilton Metropole hotel last Sunday.
The man charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm in connection with the incident has been named as Michael Cawthray.
The 43-year-old, from north Wales, is a director of the Elvis European Championships Ltd, and the is also an Elvis tribute act.
Both men were staying at the Metropole, where 80 Elvis impersonators had been vying to win the championships.
Jeff Burton is recovering after a visit to hospital.
Meanwhile crazed Elvis Impersonator Michael Cawthray has been charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He has been bailed to appear at Solihull Magistrates’ Court later this month. (Right; Jeff Burton - doesn't he look like his dad!)
(News, Source;TheBirminghamNews) |
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Parkes Failed in its World Record ETA attempt: It is estimated that more than 15,000 Elvis fans shuffled their blue suede shoes into central western NSW for the annual Parkes Elvis Festival.
But even with all those fans in town willing to swivel their hips in honour of their favourite rocker, Parkes failed in its world record attempt to have the largest gathering of Elvis impersonators. They needed more than 646 fans to impersonate Elvis to achieve this.
"We didn't break the record, but we did have 610 impersonators - including Priscillas - so we're going to write to the Guinness Book of Records and see if we can get an entry for that," Parkes mayor Ken Keith said.
The town has still had a win of sorts with 3000 extra people thought to be in town compared with last year.
The 12,000 that descended on Parkes for the festival in 2010 managed to generate $5 million for the local economy.
"I'm confident that we'll break the record in 2012," the mayor said.
EIN Note: Disgruntled EIN readers (see 'Save Elvis' Image' above) who think that the Parkes Australian Festival demeans Elvis' image miss |
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out on the fact that Parkes is basically a "Country Fair" with an Elvis theme. It has the same vibe as the Tupelo Elvis Festival - but without the real connection! There is ELVIS music blasting out of every corner of this small country town and the vibe is fantastic. How could it not be with 12,000 fans all who love Elvis and who are all in a great mood? Everyone chats to you and strangers become friends just through the Elvis connection. The final Sunday Elvis Gospel service carries a more important and charitable theme and is a very moving experience.
The fact that Parkes did not break the Elvis impersonators record actually shows that the vast majority of the Parkes attendees are ordinary folks not dressed up in appalling white-jumpsuits, who just want to spend the weekend soaking up Elvis' great legacy.
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNetwork) |
Elvis impersonators not so lonesome in Parkes: Thousands of Elvis Presley fans are checking into 'heartbreak' hotels in NSW for the annual five-day Parkes Elvis Festival, which is timed to celebrate The King's January 8 birthday. The die-hard fans at this year's event won't just be singing karaoke and taking in street parades. On Saturday they will attempt to break the Guinness world record for the largest-ever gathering of Elvis impersonators.
The record attempt requires people to be dressed head-to-toe in Elvis attire and be ready to swivel their hips and belt out Love Me Tender at 8:30am AEDT at the Cook Park Main Stage.
Last year's festival brought in 12,000 people - doubling the population of Parkes - and the mayor says they are expecting 10,000 to 12,000 this year. He says it will be worth about $5 million to the town's economy. |
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"We have overseas visitors too - people from Singapore and Finland have already arrived and last year there were fans over from the UK and America."
The mayor says they are expecting "perfect" weather for this year's festival with temperatures expected to be in the low 30s. It will be a lot cooler than last year's event which saw people sweating in their synthetic fibre jumpsuits and wigs as temperatures reached 40 degrees. The festival runs until Sunday January 9.
Former yellow Wiggle Greg Page will be displaying his collection of Elvis memorabilia, worth $3 million to $4 million, during the festival. The sold-out 'ELVIS EXPRESS' train (above) left Sydney for Parkes this morning.
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNetwork) |
Australia Parkes ELVIS Birthday Festival 2011: Meanwhile in Australia, over 12,000 Elvis fans will congregate on the small country town of Parkes to also celebrate Elvis' Birthday with a festival running from January 5 - Sunday Jan 9th. Incredibly Parkes has absolutely no connection at all with Elvis, yet has its own Elvis Museum (with a sensational selection of genuine memorabilia) and it is likely that more Elvis fans will be in Parkes than at Graceland!
The 5 day Parkes Elvis Festival program features a dazzling array of more than 100 individual events and runs from 5 - 9 January 2011. This year the key performer is Dean Vegas who is doing four shows, plus there are the regular Elvis Gospel Church Service, the iconic Elvis Street Parade, the Crowning of Miss Priscilla, the Elvis Golf Day & Dinner, the Back to the Altar Wedding Ceremony.
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This year they are also trying to beat the Guinness World Record for 'The Largest Gathering of Elvis Impersonators'. You can join in at 8.30AM on Saturday 8th January at the Cook Park Main Stage. Dean Vegas, Renowned Australian Elvis Tribute Artist will host the Guinness World Records™ attempt.
In 2007, 147 Elvis impersonators converged on Parkes to sing Love Me Tender, breaking the previous record of 78.
Click here to Parkes Elvis Festival website for Festival Schedule and complete details.
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNetwork) |
Australian 'Rock'n'Roll' Cruise for November: The "Blue Suede Cruise" about to set sail 20th Nov, 2010 leaving from Sydney, Australia. The luxury cruise features 12 great acts performing 50's and & 60's Rock 'n' Roll over a week long cruise around the South Pacific Islands. From Elvis, to The Beatles, Roy Orbison, including some great early Australian talent like Lonnie Lee, Jade Hurley, Darryl Cotton and more. Elvis entertainment features Mark Andrew, Elvis to the Max, plus She is the King.
Go here to check it out.
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
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Welsh Porthcawl Elvis Festival this weekend: It's the same every year the Welsh coastal village of Porthcawl is swamped with Elvis's from all over the world, here to celebrate one of Europe's biggest Elvis festival. This weekend thousands upon thousands of Elvis fans will fill the hotels and pubs around Porthcawl - it's all great fun though and there's something entertaining in watching scores of Elvis's compete to be the year's official best Elvis.
The beach, windswept and looking desolate in the September chill, was full of Elvis's on horseback. It's all quite bizarre and left me, all shook up.
The Grand Pavilion will tonight host the Elvies the annual award for the best Elvis impersonator -
(News, Source;ElvisPorthcawl)
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Dean Vegas on tour in Australia: Having recently returned from a successful tour in the USA, Australia's Dean Vegas is back on tour, playing weekends throughout September to December including the October Tallangatta Rock'n'Roll Festival in Victoria.
If you are in Australia and want to catch up with one of the contest winning ETAs..
Go here for Australian TOUR dates and more info
(News, Source;DeanVegas) |
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Justin Shandor Wins EPE Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest: EPE congratulates Justin Shandor of Portland, Oregon, who won the 2010 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest title at the Orpheum Theatre in Memphis. Justin was the winner of the Las Vegas Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest preliminary round presented by Legends in Concert.
Second was Kevin Mills of Cinnaminson, New Jersey, winner of the Tupelo Elvis Festival preliminary round.
Third was Jay Dupuis of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, winner of the Silver Slipper Ultimate ETA Contest preliminary.
Victor Trevino, Jr. and Matt Cordell rounded out the top five.
Go here to Sanja's exclusive Elvis Week report.
And if click here you want to find out more about the 2010 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest.
(News, Source;SanjaM/ElvisInfoNet) |
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EPE announce Top Ten Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest Finalists: While Elvis impersonators upset many hardcore Elvis fans there is no doubt that the Elvis ETA shows are packed out this week in Memphis. On Wednesday night the Orpheum was packed with fans as 23 of the best Elvis tribute artists in the world took the stage to compete for the ultimate title. The following Elvis tribute artists were selected as the top ten that will go on to compete in the final round tonight Friday August 13.
Top ten finalists (in alphabetical order) are: Matt Cordell, Jay |
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Dupuis, Stephen Freeman, Tim Hendry, Dwight Icenhower, Kevin Mills, Justin Shandor, Cody Slaughter, Victor Trevino, Jr., Danny Vernon.
Stay tuned later tonight when the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist of 2010 will be announced. Go here if Elvis ETAs fascinate you. (If not steer clear!)
(News, Source;SanajM/ElvisInfoNet) |
HT Long Sings The Golden Hits of Elvis Presley (CD Review): Malaysia's HT Long has deservedly enjoyed a long and highly successful career as the leading Elvis stylist in South East Asia.
EIN's Nigel Patterson recently put on the headphones to listen to another of HT's wonderful album releases. From the opening lines of I'm Gonna Sit Right Down and Cry to the final bonus mystery song, what he found was a delightful aural treat. HT's smooth Elvis vocal was in its element travelling through tracks including Echoes of Love, Never Ending, I'll Be There, Hawaiian Sunset and a perennial favorite, Love Me Tender. (July 2010)
Read EIN's full review |
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“Geraceland” (CD Review) - rap beats and cool grooves re-energise the Elvis legacy: Leading Australian Elvis stylist, Mick Gerace, has spent the last year recording his latest album, the cleverly titled Geraceland. Featured on the album are the legendary James Burton, Sweet Inspirations and Aussie hip hop artist, Tone Z.
Together Mick and the group have produced a masterful concoction which contemporarises the Elvis catalog with a heady mix of rap beats, cool grooves and engaging vibe.
The music traverses rich territory including a blistering My Babe, funky blues Polk Salad Annie and a sublime rap take on Stranger In My Own Home Town. Geraceland is vibrant aural experience which impresses with its modern sound but familiar lyrics.
Read EIN’s full review |
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| 'Ale house rock' charity record attempt in Suffolk: An Elvis Presley impersonator from Suffolk will attempt to break a Guinness World Record by singing his idol's songs non-stop for three days. Simon Goldsmith, 36, of Little Bealings near Woodbridge, must sing for more than 43 hours, 11 minutes and 11 seconds to beat the current record.
The delivery driver will start singing at 0800 BST on Friday at the White Lion pub in Lower Ufford. Mr Goldsmith is raising money for St Elizabeth Hospice in Ipswich.
His father died of cancer at the hospice last year. Mr Goldsmith, who performs under the name Harry Isaac Presley, needs to beat Thomas Gothje, from Germany, who set the record in 2004.
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Keeping voice fresh'"I love crazy ideas and I wanted to do something a bit special, so I looked up some world records and this one really appealed to me," Mr Goldsmith said. "I've got no problem in staying awake for that long, it's just the effect on my vocal chords. "I'm going to have to work on some tricks to keep my voice fresh." A spokesman for Guinness World Records said: "Simon has been in contact with us with the intention of breaking the current world record. "We'd like to wish him the very best of luck in his effort." (News, Source: BBC, 4 May 2010)
| Elvis appearance opposite Gordon Brown sparks investigation: (Further to our earlier news item below) an official investgation has begun into whether an Elvis impersonator's performance for UK PM, Gordon Brown, broke the law.
He was hailed by Alastair Campbell as the "megastar" who would boost Gordon Brown's flagging election campaign, but an Elvis impersonator has left Labour feeling all shook up.
Mandrake learns that Corby borough council is investigating whether the performance at the weekend breached the Licensing Act.
(May 2010)
Elvis impersonator Mark Wright greets Gordon Brown in Corby Photo: PA
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Lodge Park Technology College, where Mark Wright sang for the Prime Minister, is not allowed to permit performances of live music before 6pm. Damian Wilkins, the health protection manager at Corby council, has contacted Tom Waterworth, the head teacher, to demand an explanation. Under the Act, Campbell, the organiser of the event, and Waterworth, the licence holder, could face criminal prosecution resulting in six months in prison or a £20,000 fine.
The college was unable to get a Temporary Event Notice authorising the performance of music, as plans to allow last-minute event notices were withdrawn by the Government this month. Wright, who is from Corby, had entered the building as the Prime Minister concluded his speech. The impersonator serenaded the Labour Party supporters with A Little Less Conversation.
No flies on Gordon Brown - Mandrake has an inkling why Gordon Brown was never very enthusiastic about jumping into bed with Nick Clegg. North of the border, Clegg is the word to describe a large blood-sucking fly. (News, Source: Tim Walker, telegraph.co.uk)
Elvis joins the campaign trail: The first signs of UK PM, Gordon Brown "upping the tempo" of his campaign have emerged. Brown has now arrived in Corby, Northamptonshire for an NHS rally, and is joined by an Elvis impersonator. In an apparent explanation he told the gathering:
‘I am going to be introducing Britain's Elvis Presley. Only 4% of people in the world now still believe Elvis Presley is alive. But I think there is only about 4% of people, by the end of this election campaign, that will believe that the Conservatives are not a risk to economic recovery in this country.’
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The King's appearance could also explain Alastair Campbell's rather excited tweeting last night. He had promised that a "megastar" would be joining the prime minister today. He tweeted: ‘We are talking big. I mean mega. Could be highlight of campaign.’ (News, Source: Brian Quinn/Mike Bashford/Guardian.co.uk, 24 April 2010)
Many thanks to Barb for this poster and news:
The legendary, world-famous Jordanaires will be performing at the Chattanooga Choo Choo Centennial Theatre on Friday, May 21. They will be backing performer Ron Moore, recognized internationally as Elvis’ voice clone and who returns to Chattanooga by popular demand. Concert proceeds support the Eagles Wings Ranch horse therapy program and the City of Chattanoooga’s Childrens Education Arts and Culture program. It will also be videotaped for a television series on Elvis and Ron Moore. Tickets are $20 and available through www.tix.com or by calling the Choo Choo box office at (423) 702-8976.
Stephen Freeman "live"
Join award winning Elvis Tribute Artist, Stephen Freeman, and the talented Wohlfahrt Haus Cast as they perform a variety of your favorite Elvis Presley songs. This all new production will feature performances by Stephen never before presented at Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre!!
Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre170 Malin DriveWytheville, VA
For Reservations Call - 1-888-950-3382TWO DAYS ONLY!!!!!!!!
Tuesday, May 18&Wednesday, May 192 Shows each day(Matinee & Evening)
Stephen Freeman's "Echos of a Legend Showband" is a very talented group of vocalists and musicians. Each artist brings a sincere element of authenticity to the band. The Echos of a Legend Showband works very hard to bring you, the Elvis fan, a quality tribute show with their top priority focused on re-creating the music as it was originally recorded. We would like to take this opportunity to introduce you to the members of the Echos of a Legend Showband!
Photo credit: Harm Lourenssen / Jeeri Berkers
Visit the Frank Anthony website (Netherlands)
The Power of Elvis: Tribute artist Dave Yefko admits he doesn't quite understand "the power of Elvis." He just knows it exists.
"When I'm trying to memorize one of his songs, I can play it over and over for four or five days and never get sick of it," he explained. "It's unreal. All of us (tribute artists) want to do our very best, so as not to tarnish his name."
Yefko, 54, of Plymouth, is one of three performers who will sing tonight during an "Elvis Through the Years" fund-raiser in Nanticoke.
The concert is an attempt by the Plymouth and Greater Nanticoke Rotary Clubs to fight polio in Third World countries, where it is still crippling people, Rotary spokesman Dave Carey said. Some 137,000 Rotary Clubs around the world are working to raise $350 million to match a grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, he said.
For fans of "the King," Yefko predicted, the concert should be a great experience, with songs ranging from "Blue Suede Shoes" to "Hound Dog" to "Kentucky Rain" to two versions of "Can't Help Falling In Love."
Josh Slosky will portray the young Elvis and Jimmy T will represent the middle-age Elvis, while Yefko will be the mature Elvis, wearing a jumpsuit.
"Those guys are slim; I'm a little portly," Yefko said with a chuckle, explaining why audiences shouldn't expect much hip-swiveling from him.
The show begins at 7 p.m. at the Greater Nanticoke Area High School on Kosciuszko Street. Tickets are $15. (301-9280) (Mary Therese Biebel, The Times Leader, Wilkes-Barre, Pa, California Chronicle)
Visit the Dean Vegas website (Australia)
Stephen Freeman Concert Update Newsletter
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Stephen Freeman in Concert.......
Liberty Showcase Theatre Presents
Stephen Freeman and his
Echos of a Legend Showband
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Showtime is 7:30 PM
Show Only Advance Tickets: $25.00
Show Only Tickets at the Door: $28.00
*Dinner and Show tickets: $40.00
*Dinner tickets must be reserved in advance*
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This all new show will feature Stephen and the Echos of a Legend Showband with your favorite Elvis Presley songs!!
For ticket information contact:
336-622-3844
Liberty Showcase Theatre
101 Fayetteville St.
Liberty, NC
www.libertyshowcase.com
www.stephenfreeman.com
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Copyright the Elvis Information Network.
Elvis Presley, Elvis and Graceland are trademarks of Elvis Presley Enterprises.
The Elvis Information Network has been running since 1986 and is an EPE officially recognised Elvis fan club.
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