Tribute artist web sites

'She Is The King' interview with EIN: 'She Is The King' is the only woman ever to be selected by EPE to compete in the first ever worldwide sponsored Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist competition. There is no doubt that since her performance at Elvis Week this year she is also rapidly building a cult-following not only in Australia but also in the US. EIN had the opportunity to catch up with her recently, listen to some songs from her new album, as well as ask her some challenging questions such as, 'Shouldn't fat ETAs in bad jumpsuits be banned?!' Her answers were illuminating, and her new album tracks sound very fine indeed. Go here for the interview and more photos. (Interviews, Source; EIN, Oct 2007)

Terry Mike Jeffrey featuring Charlie Hodge and Duke Bardwell "An Elvis Tribute Show" (CD Review): On October 19, 2003, renowned Elvis stylist, Terry Mike Jeffrey, took to the stage in Kunstmin, Dordrecht, The Netherlands to deliver a powerhouse show to an appreciative audience at the "Elvis 2nd To None" Convention organised by the Dutch fan club, It's Elvis Time. Accompanying Jeffrey were one time bass player for Elvis, Duke Bardwell, and Elvis' "scarves and water man", Charlie Hodge. "An Elvis Tribute Album" is a strong show which delicately moves between foot stomping rockers and poignant ballads to soul stirring gospel standards. Read full review ( Source: EIN, 1 Sep 2007)

New dance remix will appeal to long time fans: Leading Australian ETA, Mick Gerace, launches his new remix single on August 16 ahead of its release by Sony BMG Australia. The recording is a "dance" remix of the sublime but little known Elvis track, (I Got A) Feeling In My Body. Backing Gerace is none other than the Sweet Inspirations. As is needed to bring Elvis' music to a new generation, "(I Got A) Feeling In My Body" has very competently used current production techniques and styles to give a classic track a contemporary feel and vibe. Read full review and hear sample of the song (Source: EIN, 12 Aug 2007)

Elvis-A-Rama - What Happened?: In a fascinating, but disturbing, interview, James Warner raises serious questions about the now defunct Elvis-A-Rama contest: Don't Be Cruel: Search For The World's Best Elvis Impersonator. With impressive prizes (which appear not to have been awarded) and names behind the scenes including Jimmy Velvet, Paul Terry King and Chris Davidson, this was a TV show which never aired, leaving contestants financially out of pocket and not knowing what was happening. James Warner's experience is a strong warning about how innocent people can be ripped off by promoters, who at the end of the day, are interested only in their own bank account. (Source: EIN, April 2007)

El Gamble - The Comeback Interview: Last year Australia's legendary Elvis tribute artist returned to the Elvis scene after an absence of nearly 30 years. The man who sold out nearly 300 shows straight in the late 1970s with his phenomenally popular Elvis tribute was back. On the eve of his return to live performing the man with the "Elvis voice" sat down with EIN to talk about his incredible career, what he has been doing for the past 30 years, and how after such a long break from the Elvis scene, and now afflicted with a rare motor neurone disease, he was confronting his self doubts in the hardest of all places, Parkes...recognised as Australia's "Elvis town". What resulted was a heartfelt, at times very funny, and always entertaining look back at an incredible professional life. From his early days when he was fired by Johnny O'Keefe, through his alcohol infused rock 'n' roll years, his incredible 13 months run of sold-out "Elvis" shows, and working with stars such as Kylie Minogue, Digger Revell, Johnny Devlin, Kamahl, John Farnham and (almost) Tom Jones, there are many amazing stories to relish. The drugs, the alcohol, the groupies, the laughter, the tears...it is all captured in an interview you will not easily forget! (Interview, Source: EIN, March 2007)

CD Review - "Memories of Elvis": Australia's "Voice of Elvis", El Gamble, is back with another sublime album of 20 well known and not so well known Elvis tracks. It is this balance between the familiar and not so familiar which gives Memories of Elvis much of its power, a power nicely complemented by a pleasing mix of rock, ballad and spiritual recordings, and El Gamble's trademark Elvis vocal. (CD Review, Source: EIN, March 2007)

Gary Wesley headlines "World Famous Legends of Rock 'n' Roll" 2006 Australian Tour - read EIN's review

Photographer captures the faces of those who pay tribute to Elvis: Chicago photographer Patty Carroll began by looking for ways to show people's inner lives, but she ended up revealing their inner Elvis. Call them Elvis impersonators, impressionists, stylists, performers, interpreters or imposters; they call themselves ETAs — Elvis Tribute Artists. Immersing herself in the kitschy yet cool subculture, Carroll has taken hundreds of portraits, some of which have been published in a little pink book, "Living the Life! The World of Elvis Tribute Artists." Read full story (Source: Express News, 19 Sep 2006)

The King and I Elle-Vis interprets Elvis Presley’s music from a woman’s perspective in a new tribute show, Katrina Fox reports. Forget any preconceptions you may have about fat men in white jumpsuits doing their worst impressions of the king of rock and roll and get ready to embrace Elle-Vis, a tribute show with a difference.

“I’m being myself, I dress in my own style and dance in my own style.” That style just happens to be very rock and roll, glam and showy. “My outfit and so on has always been me, it just seemed to fit really well with the Elle-Vis theme,” Margarida laughs. “I’m aware there’s probably a lot of scepticism and I understand it. It’s totally new, a woman doing it and maybe some Elvis fans would think ‘Oh, hang on a minute’ but all I ask them to do is come and see the show and they’ll be relieved that I’m just singing his songs the way they would expect me to sing them.”

The idea of a female Elvis is sure to set many a dyke’s heart racing, and Margarida is keen to develop her lesbian fan base. “I’d love to have a lesbian following,” she enthuses. It seems logical (ok, nosy) then to ask her about her own sexuality, but she refuses to give it up. “I’m not going to answer that question; I just don’t feel it has any relevance to the music,” she proffers.

Portuguese in origin, Margarida grew up in Adelaide and during her musical career she’s been in a number of cover bands, mainly in South Australia, and is currently writing some songs which she hopes to release for an album. She’s also had some interest from the UK, US, Asia and New Zealand in regard to Elle-Vis and hopes to tour the show internationally next year.

So, is she ready for the rock and roll lifestyle of her idol, complete with groupies congregating backstage for a piece of her? “I’m a very private person,” she says. “I do all the normal things at home like gardening and looking after my animals, which I call my kids.” Even so, it’s unlikely Elle-Vis will be lonesome on any night if her star continues to rise. “I do have a fan base and people I see continually in the audience,” she says. “It’s very flattering.”

Elle-Vis tribute show, Friday October 6, 8pm, Enmore Theatre, Enmore Rd, Newtown, $63.30/$53.30. Bookings:  Ph 9550 3666 or online at www.ticketek.com (Source: Charmaine Voisine, 15 Sep 2006)

The "inspirational" return of El Gamble: Last Saturday in the Elvis town of Parkes, NSW, EIN witnessed a rare event. Australia's original Elvis tribute artist returned to the stage 28 years after his last Elvis show. Renowned for both his vocal similarity to Elvis and great stage presence, last year El Gamble was afflicted with a rare nerve disease which has literally turned his life upside down. In Parkes, he returned to face his the biggest challenge of his career in front of Australia's toughest Elvis audience. The result was an unforgettable experience for those present and truly inspirational. Click to read how a legendary artist conquered his fears and won over an initially apprehensive audience (Concert Review, Source: EIN)

Press Release On Michael O’Connor As Elvis: As a producer of music lyrics and seeing Elvis live in Las Vegas along with over 150 want to be Elvis impersonators the deep tones and rhythm of Michael O’Connor that he is the only singer that can come close to the computer match of notes and pitches of the true Elvis. Michael can stay on top of notes better than the singers here in Vegas and his stage costumes are the mirror of what Elvis would have used on stage here in Vegas. We are truly lucky to have such a dedicated entertainer as Michael O’Connor.

I have myself pushed this mans voice around and seen the results and I'm committed to producing his Elvis music on new CD's that will come out within the next few months and should be out late summer 2006. Many of you in the industry know me and know me well and if I review a singer and post them for entertainment they are among the very best for live shows and productions for films or corporate events. I would highly recommend Michael O’Connor for any event when dealing with the general public and more so the fans of the King. Look for great things to happen with this singer and Shelby Music will be on top of his success in the music industry. From the production staff here at Shelby Music we wish you the best Michael.  Sincerely, Shelby (Studio Music Production Studio number  801-253-2624) (Press Release, 29 May 2006)

Steve Preston's "Promised Land" (DVD release): A "teaser" DVD for an upcoming full concert DVD featuring UK's premier Elvis tribute artist, Steve Preston, has been released. EIN recently sampled what is on offer and found Preston's performances are visually and aurally impressive. They are highly suggestive of a superb concert with a performer not only in control of his artistry, but one who has also established a strong connection with his audience. (Source: EIN)

The tragic story of Jimmy "Orion" Ellis: EIN takes a detailed look at the amazing but eventually tragic story of Jimmy Ellis, a talented performer whose vocal similarity to Elvis was initially the key his success, but eventually part of his downfall. Featuring 25 images (including 19 album covers), several news stories, and EIN's biography of Ellis, we uncover the fascinating, bittersweet story of an entertainer who, as the "masked man", Orion, would briefly enjoy worldwide fame. From his adoption at a young age to his tragic murder, the Jimmy Ellis story is an enthralling ride. (Spotlight/Almost Elvis, Source: EIN)

‘Elvis To The Max’, Concert Review & photos: One of the world’s very best Elvis impersonators Max Pellicano is back in Australia for a 10 week tour. EIN's Sanja Meegin was at his first concert in Melbourne to witness an awesome concert. His voice was tremendous and the packed crowd of 700 truly felt the power of Elvis, as Max’s performance blew the roof off the house! Max’s tour also includes 3 performances next weekend at Sydney’s Star Casino. Check out Sanja Meegin’s concert review & photos, plus full concerts dates. (Almost Elvis, Source: EIN, 24 Sept 2005)

Australia - 'Elvis Leaves His Mark': Melbourne concert review: Acclaimed Australian Elvis Tribute Artist Mark Andrew has just wound up another successful tour of the country with his energetic and highly entertaining show "Elvis Leaves His Mark". For over 2 hours, in the final show of his tour, the audience was treated to a plethora of Elvis hits from all different eras along with a visually dazzling performance. Mark has the moves, the voice, and above all an obvious respect for the man whose memory he is keeping alive. (Almost Elvis: Source EIN)

Hull's pelvis started gyrating during this medley, and it kept going as the evening went on, causing the women in the audience to cheer and yell things like "We love you, Elvis!" While he passed on scarves to some women in the audience, Hull also gave the people another souvenir - a roll of toilet paper that reads, "You can never wipe the King from history." Hull said that Presley was the one artist who was able to dabble in, and be successful in, rhythm and blues, gospel, rock, country, and the movies.

"He covered every base," Hull said. Hull also brought to life such Presley hits as "Viva Las Vegas," "Kentucky Rain," "Suspicious Minds," "Teddy Bear," "Are You Lonesome Tonight?" and "Don't Be Cruel." During the show, Hull did something not many Elvis impressionists can do - he spray-painted an Elvis mural while he sang "Memories." The painting was then auctioned off, with the money going to The Villages Community Philharmonic Orchestra. During the first show, the mural sold for $1,500. The Jordanaires, Presley's backing vocalists, were so impressed with Hull'spaintings that they autographed one of the murals, and it sold for $3,750. Hull never meant to make a career as the King; he actually has a degree in graphic arts and worked in a sign shop. When Hull was about 9 years old, he listened to his mother's Elvis albums; she was a big fan. "I'd sing with a hairbrush and act like the guy," Hull said. In 1979, he entered a talent show singing Presley's tunes.

The crowd's joyous reaction gave him the idea to dress up as Presley. His mother was so impressed, she wanted him to perform at her high school reunion. "It got bigger than the sign shop," Hull said. "Four hundred people [were there], and about 200 of them asked me to do their reunions." Since taking on the role of Presley, Hull has worked with the Jordanaires, Chubby Checker, Joey Dee and the Starliters, and Eddie Rabbit. When he opened for Lee Greenwood a Cypress Gardens, Hull performed in front of 20,000 people, the largest crowd ever for him. At one point, Hull considered getting out of the Elvis game because it was taking up too much of his life. But after hooking up with the Spectors, he put that thought aside. "It's been a lot of fun," Hull said. "I'm not sure I have to stop it. I just want to do something to take people back." (Review, The Villages Daily Sun)

In the King's Shadow, Volume 1: There are literally hundreds of albums featuring Elvis tribute artists. While most are instantly forgettable, once in a while a singer comes along with a voice that is eerily reminiscent of The King. (CD Review, Source: EIN)

Jimmy "Orion" Ellis gunned down: We recently found this archival article on the sad death of the singer at the center of the "Is Elvis Alive?" conspiracy throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s, Jimmy (aka the masked man, Orion) Ellis. (Spotlight/Almost Elvis, Source: APB)

Concert review - Greg Page, Mick Gerace & the TCB Band Sydney: In a packed show of over 2 1/2 hours, Sydney got a real treat with some country music classics and a rockin' finale. It was truly like an Elvis "closing night" concert, where the pressure is off and the band can play just for the joy of making great music. (Concert review, Source: EIN)

Kraig Parker brings Elvis to Sherman: For two hours last Friday night, Elvis fans at Sherman's Kidd-Key Auditorium witnessed the "King" once again taking care of business, as Kraig Parker nailed Elvis from vocals to shaking leg. (Concert review, The Herald Democrat, 7 March 2005)

Mick Gerace: talks to EIN about the TCB Band visit "downunder in 2005. (Source: EIN, 17 Feb 2005)

Greg Page talks to EIN about the TCB Band and a lot more: In March, Greg Page is headlining a series of Aussie concerts with TCB Band members, James Burton and Glen D. Hardin. Greg recently talked to EIN about the shows, his CD deal with ABC, the whereabouts of Jerry Scheff, the Taking Care of Country Charity Fund, Greg's plans for a "travelling Elvis museum", and a very special item owned by Elvis that Greg has purchased. (Interview, Source: EIN)

Greg Page in concert: One (Yellow) Wiggle + the TCB Band = a rockin' good time in Nashville!

Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Elvis Impersonators (Part 1): EIN provides a comprehensive look at every aspect of those who either imitate The King or provide a tribute to his legacy. (Source: EIN)

Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Elvis Impersonators (Part 2): EIN provides a comprehensive look at every aspect of those who either imitate The King or provide a tribute to his legacy. (Source: EIN)

Mick Gerace talks to EIN: following the postponement of the TCB Band & Myrna Smith concert, Australia's leading Elvis tribute artist takes time out to talk to EIN about the rescheduled concert and his future plans. (Source: EIN, 28 July 2004)

Mick Gerace: Australia's leading Elvis tribute artist talks to EIN.(Source: EIN, 2002)

I Remember His First Love Song: Billy Rebel's new tribute single allows the listener to recall a time now long gone.

Every man and woman is an Elvis: unusual story from ABC.com's "The Wolf Files" looking at the wide range and types of Elvis impersonators

Almost Elvis: I cannot praise John Paget's insightful and moving documentary enough. It is a fascinating look behind the scenes of the impersonator's world, delving into the private lives and motivations of its protagonists. (DVD review)