Welcome to the Elvis Information Network...for the best news, reviews, interviews; articles about the King of Rock & Roll, Elvis Aaron Presley</span>

Welcome to the "Elvis Information Network", home to the best news, reviews, interviews & articles about the King of Rock & Roll, Elvis Aaron Presley...

Click for latest news on upcoming book by Joe Esposito & Joe Russo: Elvis Straight Up (News, Source: Elvis International Magazine)

Note: Elvis-Celine Dion duet video has now been deleted by YouTube & Yahoo Video

Yet he enters the sessions with such ambition and determination. He delivers a new mature diverse voice. “It's Now Or Never” and “Surrender” are truly challenging for Elvis. He proofs himself to be a truly talented singer and not just a flash in the pan. These recording sessions will forever stand out in Elvis’ history.

It’s almost as if Elvis hit the ground running upon his return. The Colonel had been busy preparing for Elvis' return for a very long time. Not only were the recording sessions lined up, an appearance on the ABC televised Frank Sinatra Special and the filming for “G.I. Blues” were immediately following.

His appearance on the Sinatra Special is warmly received by the public. Elvis innocently steals the show from Sinatra. Yet the repertoire between the two performers is very apparent. “G.I. Blues” is a very successful film for Elvis although Elvis hates being in uniform again.

During this year, Elvis is also experiencing many changes in his personal life. Elvis has met Priscilla while in Germany. But he returns to his long time girlfriend Anita Wood. They continue their relationship where it left off before Elvis left for Germany. Vernon marries Dee, which is hard on Elvis because of the loss of his mother. Elvis also brings many of his friends from Germany home and the Memphis Mafia is formed.

But still the most important thing during the year 1960 is the amazing recording sessions. We have two incredible albums from this year, “Elvis Is Back” and “His Hand In Mine.” Elvis truly proves his ability as a performer. He conquers every challenge he is faced with and proves Elvis is back!

Elvis Is Back will present many never before seen pictures from this period. There will even be some very interesting ones from the filming of G.I. Blues. Those were not used in the Inside G.I. Blues book. (News, Source: Elvis News)

Elvis song in list of 40 Greatest Songs That Changed The World: That's All Right, Mama is listed in Rolling Stone's list of the 40 songs that changed the world. The full list is:

1. Elvis Presley "That's All Right"
2. Ray Charles "I Got A Woman"
3. Chuck Berry "Maybellene"
4. Bob Dylan "A Hard Rain's A-Gonna Fall"
5. The Kingsmen "Louie Louie"
6. The Ronettes "Be My Baby"
7. The Beatles "I Wanna Hold Your Hand"
8. Martha and the Vandellas "Dancing In The Street"
9. The Rolling Stones "(I Cant Get No) Satisfaction"
10. Bob Dylan "Like A Rolling Stone"
11. The Beatles "Strawberry Fields Forever"
12. The Velvet Underground "Herion"
13. Jimi Hendrix "Purple Haze"
14. Aretha Franklin "Respect"
15. Led Zeppelin "Whole Lotta Love"
16. James Brown "Get Up (I Feel Like being a) Sex Machine"
17. Marvin Gaye "What's Going On"
18. John Lennon "Imagine"
19. David Bowie "Ziggy Stardust"
20. Bob Marley "I Shot The Sheriff"
21. Joni Mitchell "Help Me"
22. Bruce Springsteen "Born To Run"
23. Queen "Bohemian Rhapsody"
24. The Ramones "Blitzkrieg Bop"
25. Donna Summer "I Feel Love"
26. The Sex Pistols "Anarchy in the UK"
27. The Sugarhill Gang "Rappers Delight"
28. Black Flag "TV Party"
29. Michael Jackson "Billie Jean"
30. Prince "When Doves Cry"
31. U2 "Pride (In The Name Of Love)"
32. Madonna "Like A Virgin"
33. Dun DMC and Aerosmith "Walk This Way"
34. The Cure "Just Like Heaven"
35. Guns N Roses "Sweet Child O Mine"
36. Public Enemy "Bring The Noise"
37. Nirvana "Smells Like Teen Spirit"
38. Dr. Dre "Nuthin' But A G Thang"
39. Britney Spears "...Baby One More Time"
40. The White Stripes "Fell In Love With A Girl"(News, Source: Rolling Stone/Elvis News)

'Idol' outrage - Elvis, Celine duet: So American Idol gives all six contestants a reprieve this week. Big deal. The talent pool is so shallow and scummy this season that it's hard to care who stays or goes. You just want it to be over.

But what really rankled on Idol was that House of Wax "duet" between Elvis Presley and Celine Dion. Somewhere Col. Tom Parker must be smirking. Thirty years after the King's death, they're still finding shabby ways to sell off pieces of his soul.

Yes, it was tacky when they used footage of Fred Astaire for a vacuum-cleaner ad. And annoying when John Wayne became a posthumous beer salesman. But pairing Elvis with Dion is downright sacrilegious.

It's true they both ended up as Vegas headliners, but that's where the similarity ends. Elvis was a stark refutation of everything Dion represents. He was dark, dangerous, and radiantly charged with charisma. She is a plastic figurine with a freakish voice.

Legend has it that whenever Elvis saw singer Robert Goulet (whose parents were French Canadian) perform on television, it would offend him so deeply, he would grab a pistol and shoot out the picture tube.

Celine Dion is just a waifish contemporary replica of Goulet. She's perfect for Idol, but anathema for Elvis. (News, Source: David Hiltbrand, Inquirer Television Columnist, Philly.com)

Duet hits #1 on iTunes: The Elvis and Celine duet completely wowed television viewers and has been making the news around the world. Today, the duet is the number one video download on iTunes. The purchase of the download benefits Idol Gives Back. (News, Source: EPE)

No release planned for Elvis-Celine duet: The breathtaking duet of 'If I Can Dream' with Elvis and Celine Dion has caused a stir across the globe, newspapers call it historic, some have even stated that the Idols Give Back show was dull and was only saved by the emotionally charged duet.............And yet EPE look set to allow this jaw-dropping performance to fall into music obscurity just like they did with the duet 'Don't Cry Daddy' performed by Elvis and Lisa Marie.

In an email sent to us by one of our listeners, Todd Morgan of Elvis Presley Enterprises wrote, "This was a
one-time, stand-alone event for last night's Idol Gives Back special and an iTunes video download only." He also states "No release of the video on DVD is in the works." (News, Source: Elvis Express)

EIN Comment: EIN agrees with Elvis Express' sentiments on the If I Can Dream duet. Unlike the Elvis-Lisa duet on Don't Cry Daddy, which was a special thing Lisa wanted to do (and therefore we should respect her wishes for it to be a once off, non released performance), the latest duet is a wonderful opportunity for all parties (Celine Dion's best selling album days are behind her) to reinvigorate their faltering sales position.

Junkie XL teaching appointment: Junkie XL, famed among us Elvis fans and beyond for remixing Elvis Presley’s "A Little Less Conversation" into the international hit in 2002 has been appointed as a teacher of composition and Music Design at the ArtEZ School of Music in the Netherlands. Although he lives in Venice, Los Angeles, he will visit three times a year, then coach students online. (News, Source: Elvis UK On-line/Elvis News)

Billboard and Elvis' sales in 1977: The following is an excerpt from an article written in 2001 by Ernst Jorgensen and Roger Semon:

The RIAA certifications are based on documented sales figures and in the case of older artists these figures simply do not exist any more. In the case of Elvis the RCA figures are incomplete, most importantly sales during the 12 months after Elvis' death are unaccounted for. BILLBOARD wrote in September 1977 that RCA shipped 20 million records a week. They had as many as 40 pressing plants working overtime to cope with the demand. RCA November releases were postponed, in order to supply Elvis product and at one time during the period more than 1/3 of all sales in the country market was Elvis Presley product. On top of this tens of millions of records sold through outside companies including record clubs, are mainly unaccounted for in RIAA totals. (News, Source: EIN Archives)

Elvis-Celine duet - how did they do it?: A number of readers took us to task over our story yesterday about the Elvis and Celine Dion duet of If I Can Dream on this week's American Idol. Our story, sourced from Contact Music, incorrectly stated Elvis appeared in hologram form. As was correctly pointed out to us, the TV audience saw a cleverly video splice of Elvis and Ms Dion, while those in the live studio audience actually saw Celine performing with leading ETA Ryan Pelton (miming to Elvis' vocal). (News, Source: Various)

Elvis lyrics to go online: Yahoo and Gracenote have reached a deal to provide Yahoo! users with legit, official lyrics to hundreds of thousands of songs contained in Gracenote's database, which is in development for more than two years. The new service by Yahoo! Music will be the first mass-market Web service to offer licensed lyrics.

Their joint statement says that through the agreement, consumers can search for song lyrics from the Yahoo! Music Search bar, simply by entering even a partial lyric from the song. Consumers will have viewing access to lyrics from nearly 100 music publishers, including the top five: BMG Music Publishing, EMI Music Publishing, Sony/ATV Music Publishing, Universal Music Publishing Group, Warner/Chappell Music, and dozens of prominent independent publishers.

"You mean Bob Dylan isn't actually saying 'The ants, my friend, are in a bowling pin?'" asks Ian Rogers, general manager of Yahoo! Music. "Finally, a free, legal and definitive way to settle a bet with the guy sitting next to you at the bar who is certain the Ramones' most famous anthem declares, 'I wanna piece of bacon.'"

The new service will also allow users to search for lyrics containing a specific verse or phrase. Of course, a classic hierarchical structure will allow people to look up the Artist section within Yahoo! Music, which offers a lyrics page, allowing users to easily browse all song lyrics for that artist.

"Song lyrics are continually among the top 10 searches performed on major search engines, though the results often provide consumers a frustrating experience filled with inconsistent and incomplete lyrics, and annoying pop-ups," said Craig Palmer, president and chief executive officer of Gracenote.

"With Gracenote and Yahoo!, consumers will have access to the largest database of high quality lyrics linked directly to the rich album and artist content available throughout Yahoo! Music."

Apparently, Gracenote is also in talks with Apple, as well as with various other music partners, about its lyrics database. "We wouldn't be in the business to launch just one service, so stay tuned," said Palmer. So probably lyrics from Gracenote will pop up also on Apple's iTunes soon. They already have an ongoing collaboration for Gracenote's music database, formerly known as CDDB.

Yahoo’s lyrical database will reportedly be stocked at first with some 40,000 songs issued by an impressive 9,000 recording artists that will include the timeless class of The Beatles, Bob Dylan, and Elvis Presley, through to more modern musical pacesetters such as U2, Prince, Beyonce, and Kanye West.

"The major advantage is that they’re going to start getting paid for something that has been available for free," said Inside Digital Media analyst Phil Leigh, to Guardian Unlimited. "It’s just taken the publishers a long time to get their act together."

Before, searching for lyrics would have pointed you to an illegal source of lyrics, on often dubious websites infected with trojans.

Formerly known as CDDB, Gracenote powers leading services including Apple iTunes, Yahoo! Music Jukebox, AOL Winamp; home and automotive products from Alpine, Panasonic, Philips and Sony; and mobile music applications from Samsung, Sony Ericsson, KDDI (Japan), KTF (Korea), Musiwave (Europe), and others. (News, Source: Playfuls.com)

A Tribute Program by Red Robinson 15. Elvis 12 Years in showbusiness

Q&A 16. Interview with J.D. Sumner

Special bonus tracks: 17. CBS Newscast including an overview of Elvis’ career.
18. Dutch Newsreport # 2* With reactions from a Dutch Elvis Presley fanclub president, a Beatles fanclub president and others. (News, Source: Elvis Corner /Elvis News)

In 2005 West -- also known as a songwriter and friend of Elvis Presley -- was in "Forty Shades of Blue" that won the grand jury prize at the Sundance Film Festival. In 2006 he nailed a juicy role in the Jerry Bruckheimer-produced sports flick "Glory Road." And less than two weeks ago he showed up in the pilot of the new FX channel hit "The Riches" in a recurring role. The critically acclaimed series stars Eddie Izzard and Minnie Driver as a family of Irish Travelers who take over the identities of a couple killed in a car crash.

Irish Travelers are nomadic clans often viewed as thieves and troublemakers -- and they certainly are in "The Riches." The nuclear family headed by Izzard and Driver's characters have split from the larger clan, taking more than their share of the treasury and shattering the usually tight-knit tribe. West's character is the clan patriarch but has been incapacitated. He can communicate only by ringing a bell and staring with eyes that are sometimes baleful, sometimes angry.

West said filming the show was great fun and he hopes -- as all actors do -- that it will lead to more work. The director of one of the episodes told him that "sooner or later" he'd use West in another project. "I said, make it sooner, son."

Wherever he goes, his wife Pat West is always with him. Back in the early Sixties, he was hanging around with Elvis and she was the singer's secretary. They met, and in three weeks were married. Their honeymoon was spent in Florida where Elvis was filming "Follow that Dream" and director Gordon Douglas gave Red plenty of work -- sometimes as an extra, sometimes doing stunt work, sometimes as a double.

"They made him up all different ways," Pat says, "so we had some money for our honeymoon."

Pat is an agent for members of the Screen Actors Guild. She's as involved in the film business as Red is, but the Mid-South will soon lose both when they settle in Biloxi, Miss. There they'll be much nearer to New Orleans where film and TV shows are constantly in production. They'll also be nearer to their son, actor John Boyd West, and their grandchildren.

They are departing with mixed feelings. Red bemoans Tennessee's lateness in responding to the film incentives that have been offered since 2002 in Louisiana. Substantial tax breaks have lured a steady stream of productions to the state. Tennessee's General Assembly approved an incentive package last year. It still has not been implemented although an announcement is expected soon from the Tennessee Film, Entertainment and Music Commission, possibly in a few days.

The Wests say, however, that local film boosters have gone all out. Pat pointed out that Memphis and Shelby County Film & Television Commission head Linn Sitler and board chairman Herbie O'Mell have worked tirelessly to bring productions to Memphis. For Red, though, the action keeps pulling him back to the Crescent City. His first movie was "King Creole," starring Elvis and filmed in New Orleans. Since then he's been in dozens of movies and dozens more TV shows.

Another reason that leaving town is so bittersweet is that the Wests are leaving their house in Bartlett with a large pond and stables on the acreage. It certainly has acres of memories. A number of celebrities have been by, many speaking to the acting classes Red held from shortly after he moved here from California in 1991 until last year. They include Benicio del Toro, Billy Bob Thornton, Joe Don Baker, Robert Conrad, T.G. Sheppard, Bo Hopkins and Gene Evans.

When "Forty Shades of Blue" began shooting, director Ira Sachs brought Rip Torn, the film's marquee name, over to Red's house. In part it was so the actors could get to know each other, but mainly it was because Torn is a passionate fisherman.

"He stayed out on the pond all day," Red said. "In his dressing room on the set he put lures together. That was his whole life."

Soon the Wests will pack those 8-by-10 celebrity photos and a houseful of memories. The relocation to Biloxi will cut back on those fuel bills, amped up by frequent Memphis-New Orleans runs. But they'll still take frequent jaunts to Atlanta where Red has a stake in Red's Bar and Restaurant, an eatery where the walls are covered with Red West memorabilia.

But if those walls illustrate his colorful past, he's also an actor still cultivating his career. And for his future, he's got to go where the action is. (News, Source: EP Gold)

He has earned 2 platinum records, 11 gold records and 5 Grammy awards.He has 15 top 40 pop/rock hits and 10 top 40 country hits to his credit. In the film, That's The Way It Is, Elvis mentions recording BJ Thomas' song, Just Can't Help Believin. The Memphis Boys created their unique sound which can not be duplicated at The American Studio in Memphis. They played on countless hits including Elvis' 1969 session at American. They played on such Elvis songs as Suspicious Minds, In The Ghetto, Kentucky Rain, and Don't Cry Daddy. The Memphis Boys played on more "hits" in Billboard's top 40 charts during a six-month period than any other rhythm section in history. Elvis Unlimited has recently added Mark James to the concert. Mark wrote Suspicious Minds, Always On My Mind and Raised On Rock which Elvis recorded. He also wrote Hooked On A Feeling recorded by BJ Thomas.

We are very excited Mark James will be joining the legendary and very talented cast of musicians we have lined up for this historical show! The show will take place at August 17. Doors open at 7 PM. The show starts at 8 PM and an autograph session to follow. This is your chance to experience this legendary sound live with the very talented 5 time Grammy winning artist BJ Thomas! Don't miss this show. Order your ticket today from Elvis Unlimited (info@elvispresley.dk) (News, Source: Elvis Unlimited)

.....Media Release.....

Ottawa/Gatineau To Participate in Search for 2007 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist

Sugarphyx Productions to present an official preliminary round of Elvis Presley Enterprises' Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest.

For the first time ever, Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. (EPE) is holding a world-wide competition to find the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist. The National Capital Round of this important competition, presented by Sugarphyx Productions, will be held at the Lac-Leamy Complex in Gatineau, Quebec on July 6, 2007.

Elvis tribute artists, many of whom have built careers emulating the legendary superstar down to the last jewel on their carefully crafted replica Elvis stage wear, will come to the Ottawa/Gatineau region on Friday July 6^th to compete. The winner will qualify to join other preliminary contest winners from around the world in Memphis, Tenn., in August to compete in EPE's last preliminary rounds, and hopefully the finals, presented as part of the 30^th anniversary edition of Elvis Week. The winner of EPE’s Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest Finals, to be held August 17 at the Cannon Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Memphis, will be crowned the 2007 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist.

The year 2007 marks the 30^th anniversary of the passing of the undisputed King of Rock 'n' Roll, Elvis Presley, and his life and accomplishments are once again squarely in the spotlight. Elvis Presley had an indelibly profound impact on music in the 20^th century and, as evidenced by the legions of fans he still has, that impact has not subsided. In fact, Elvis Presley’s popularity continues to grow at an amazing rate every year, reaching new audiences of all ages.

“We are truly excited to be hosting one of the global preliminary rounds in a world-class facility like the Lac-Leamy Complex”, said Alison Wilson, Executive Producer of Sugarphyx Productions. “It’s the perfect venue to showcase these incredibly talented and dedicated artists. We believe that their overall performances will be enhanced, by the luxurious 'Vegas Style' 5-star resort they will be able to work and play in.”

When asked why she thought this competition was so important, Ms. Wilson responded, “We believe that this contest marks a turning point in the validation and recognition of Elvis tribute artists everywhere. It’s also one of many great ways to re-introduce Elvis Presley – the man and his music – to a brand new generation of fans, and it's the chance of a lifetime for many of these performers.” she said. “The impact of winning this competition will most surely increase their exposure and allow them to advance their careers to new and exciting levels. We’re expecting a sold-out show.”

The Ottawa/Gatineau competition is open to the first 72 contestants registering. Both amateurs and professionals are welcome to compete. Everyone will be judged by the same criteria in a number of different categories. The contest is a search for the Elvis tribute artist that is the "best representation of the legacy of Elvis Presley." Judges will be looking for talent, appearance, performance, stage presence and each contestant's overall tribute to Elvis.

Elimination rounds will take place during the day, with a sparkling Gala Performance for the top 15 to be held in the evening with one winner being given the top prize and the title of “National Capital Grand Champion” among other great rewards. Cash prizes for first, second and third place will be given away along with a “Fans’ Choice” award.

Fans and contestants are being encouraged to visit www.UltimateElvisTributeContest.com for further information. Registration for contestants begins April 10, 2007 and tickets for spectators are on sale now.

Sugarphyx Productions is an Entertainment and Event Management Company established in 2003, based in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada and is a proud member of the Ottawa Chamber of Commerce. The team at Sugarphyx Productions are dream builders; helping companies and individuals transform their ideas of the perfect event into reality with their unique blend of creativity, ingenuity and enthusiasm while consistently pushing limits of imagination.

Elvis, Elvis Presley and Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest are trademarks of Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. (EPE), a CKX company. For more information about Elvis and EPE visit www.elvis.com. For more about EPE's Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest and all the events of Elvis Week 2007 in Memphis this August, visit www.elvisweek.com.

For more information about the Ottawa/Gatineau contest, please contact: Ms. Alison Wilson, Executive Producer, Sugarphyx Productions, 2446 Bank Street, Suite 656, Ottawa, ON Canada...(613) 513-7499 (News, Source: Sugarphyx Productions)

JAT Productions announces future releases: JAT Productions is announcing its next projects for 2007 including ( Country's Golden Hits ) - available now for those interested. Their next book is a book related to the movie Tickle Me and scheduled for August 2007, while Hot Shots and Cool Clips Volume 3 for late 2007. You can go directly to their website at www.jatpublishing.com for ordering !!! (News, Source: FECC/JAT)

Former Elvis home wins award: Uptown Square in Memphis, once the Lauderdale Courts housing project, where Elvis lived in his formative years, is one of the winners of a NAHB (National Association of Home Builders) Pillars of the Industry Award. The award was for the Best Repositioning/ Conversion of a Multifamily Asset – A title which does not roll off the tongue in a hurry.

A run down area in recent years, the area has now been transformed, with new apartments featuring built in wardrobes, full size washer dryers and free wireless internet access - a huge advance from the humble beginnings Elvis had there. (News, Source: Daily Journal/Elvis News)

Those who attend will enjoy hot hors d’oeuvres and will receive exclusive items featuring this year’s Elvis images. Attendees will also enjoy a screening of the Elvis classic, Jailhouse Rock™ and enjoy complimentary parking. (News, Source: EPE) Please RSVP via email to Lifeblood by April 26th.

Elvis Fan appointed as England Cricket Coach: Following the announcement that England cricket coach Duncan Fletcher was stepping down an Elvis fan has been appointed in his place. Sussex Coach and now the new England cricket coach Peter Moores has revealed a passion for singing Elvis numbers and will be joining several other Elvis fans already on the team including bowler Freddie Flintoff. Let's have a bit of Elvis music to liven up the cricket. It's Over maybe? (News, Source: www.elvis.co.uk / www.epgold.com)

Elvis: Close As A Brother TV Special With George Klein: To commemorate the 30th anniversary of Elvis Presley’s death, 3DD Entertainment has finalized a deal with Record Plant Pictures - in conjunction with Elvis Presley Enterprises -for the distribution of an exclusive one-hour TV special entitled Elvis: Close As A Brother, presented by George Klein, one of Presley’s lifelong friends.

The one-hour special, shot in high-definition, will provide a personal and heartfelt perspective on the legendary star’s life through the eyes of Klein, whom Presley had originally met in high school in 1948. The film is laced with a soundtrack of the star’s music, an original score inspired by the era, exclusive photos, and newsreel and archive footage.

“This candid and touching special is a real gem as it marks the first time that George Klein has ever talked in great detail about his friendship with Elvis, exclusively to camera,” said Rick Stevens, the chairman of Record Plant Pictures. “He does so with integrity and honesty, as one of the elite few to have shared the highs and lows with the star.”

“The timing of this deal couldn’t be better as we soon approach the 30th anniversary of Elvis Presley’s demise,” added Lara von Ahlefeldt, the director of music and acquisitions at 3DD Entertainment. “This will no doubt be a huge occasion for fans worldwide and we are delighted to have been appointed distributors of such a prestigious and exclusive TV special.”

Elvis: Close As A Brother will complement another key collection of up-close and personal high-profile specials from 3DD entitled My Best Friend…, featuring five legendary icons—Steve McQueen, Muhammad Ali, Che Guevara, Audrey Hepburn and Mick Jagger—as seen through the eyes of their best friends. (News, Source: World Screen News)

"Elvis in the Beat of the Night: True Stories of Elvis and His Police Buddies" book delayed yet again: Originally due out in August 2006 publication of this book has again been delayed. Tentative release date is now late May 2007 - this is the seventh time the book has been delayed. (News, ElvisBookResearch)

This unique time capsule will transport you back to August 1977 when fans around the world mourned the passing of the greatest entertainer of all time, when Elvis Presley left our building. We thank those broadcasters who have generously let our production company have access to their archives. Please note that some of the material used was recorded off-air and included for historical content, as not all TV companies archive their footage, so the quality of each news report will vary. We hope that you appreciate this documentary piece of TV history. Order your copy from It's Elvis Time (News, Source: It's Elvis Time)

Elvis and Celine Dion "duet" update: Yesterday we broke news of a possible duet between on American Idol. Since our report details have come in. Unfortunately, a "virtual reality" Elvis was nowhere to be seen. This from the FECC board:

First off ... she said it was amazing. Celine sang a song WITH Elvis called "If I Can Dream." Much like her duet with Mr. Sinatra but using an Elvis Impersonator from Vegas for the on-stage person.

Sounds complicated ... I agree, but she said they were going to actually use the REAL Elvis's face and voice, which is why she prerecorded the performance.

The Idols do come on stage through the song doing back-up vocals. They were dressed in all white. Celine wore all black, blazer type top with a shear/mesh type top underneath, hair down and long ... loose curls/flips here and there.

She said Celine was in perfect voice and sweet as could be, even after performing it 5 or 6 times.

This will air Wednesday the 25th. Read original story (News, Source: FECC)

Winner of EIN's Trip of A Lifetime" Competition: Congratulations to Robert Sharp who is the winner of our fantastic Elvis prize pack valued at around A$500.00. The pack includes the boxsets Memphis Recording Service Volume 2 and Inside Roustabout, plus an assortment of CDs, books and DVDs. Robert is one of the excited fans joining EIN in Memphis in August.

And for those Aussie and New Zealand fans yet to sign up as part of our tour to Memphis for Elvis Week 2007 there is still time to do so.....we do not need to confirm hotel room numbers until May 3. See Tour brochure and/or contact EIN for more details.

Keep watching EIN as we have another great competition coming up later this week, and this time it is open to all fans worldwide.

"What If?: A Second Chance at Life for Elvis" new book release: Recently published is this 376 page book by Roger Hannah. Available from both Amazon and B&N. (News, Source: ElvisBookResearch)

"That's Alright" CD release: Scheduled for release on the Snp label on Tuesday, June 26, 2007 is the compilation "That's Allright". More information when available. (News, Source: CD Universe/Elvis News)

Latest celebrity visitors to Graceland: Actresses Joan Collins and Linda Evans are in town this week with their tour of the play Legends, in which they co-star. Their Memphis engagement is at the Orpheum. Separately, each came out to Graceland for a tour today. The two actresses are best known for their starring roles in the long running night time soap opera, Dynasty. (News, Source: EPE/EIN)

The motorcycles will feature a 2007 Softail chassis and drive train, and each one will include with its purchase a unique piece by Harley-Davidson painter David Uhl and Harley-Davidson sculptor Jeff Decker. Each of these pieces will be numbered from 1-30 and paired with the corresponding motorcycle.

So you want one, huh? Well, bike numbered "1" will be sold for $100,000, with $40,000 of that being donated to the American Diabetes Association. Bikes 2-24 were offered for sale through a lottery system at yesterday's ride in Memphis, and will be sold for $58,815, and to get in the lottery you had to register for the ride. Bikes 25-29 will be available for purchase at a later date. Bike 30 will be auctioned off Aug. 15 during Elvis Week.

All the bikes will be delivered to the steps of Graceland Aug. 15. The purchase price includes a two-night stay at the Peabody Hotel in Memphis, a Graceland Pre-delivery Party on the evening of Aug. 24, and one round-trip ticket from within the continental United States to Memphis for the delivery experience.

If you can't afford all this, well, I found Tejas Thump Cycles in Meadow, Texas, (www.tejasthumpcycles.com), which has a replica Harley-Davidson Panhead motorcycle kit that is equipped with all the necessary parts, except gas, oil and battery, so you can create Elvis' bike yourself for $16,500. (News, Source: Donna Kessler, Record Online)

Elvis in the land of monks: It’s been 48 long years since the Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, has been in exile in India. But they say that his heart is yearning to see Lhasa — the 1,300-year-old holy city. Lhasa has traditionally been the seat of Tibetan Buddhism and is regarded as the holiest centre in politically distressed Tibet. Tourists find it absolutely fascinating to be in a destination that sits on top of the world. But it is conspicuous to notice that during the last five decades of Chinese rule, the city has undergone a major change: it’s become a regular modern day city.

Height of change: The roads are wide and well planned, weaving in and out of the historical city. Travelling is convenient for tourists; people have the luxury now to travel in swanky SUVs. Tall buildings, skyscraper-like, have sprung out of the ground to touch the city’s sky; the Chinese government have started building flyovers now to manage the growing traffic on the roads.

Made in China: Chinese products too have entered the market and are seen stacked in cheap and attractive packages in the modern newly-built malls. The malls have created a shoppers’ paradise for keen tourists. The young Tibetan women I see have given up their ‘Chuba’ (a traditional dress) and now prefer to sport colourful designer wear clothes. Most of the young and well-dressed girls are seen driving imported vehicles and zooming on motorbikes. And while modernity treads to reach the roof of the world, people now don’t mind spending extra dollars on buying expensive and branded apparels. The modern shopping malls have strong local crowd, who now have a strong purchasing ability.

Recreation and music: It’s easy to spot that snooker is the favourite recreation game for the youth. Almost every locality of Lhasa has at least half-a-dozen snooker clubs, and the new culture seems to grow like a wild fire. The elders spend hours on playing cards, sipping tea and smoking Marlboro or 555 in posh tea cafés. Though English is still an alien language, roadside music stalls have introduced the Tibetans to western music and sell a lot of pirated music CDs and DVDs. While there is a strong Bollywood craze in modern Lhasa, Elvis Presley and Elton John are hot favourites among the guitar-playing Tibetans. (News, Source: Hindustan Times)

EPE announces 30th Anniversary Elvis Week Photo Book: Here is an announcement that is sure to get you all shook up and excited as an Elvis fan. A commemorative Elvis Week publication, dedicated to Elvis and the fans that have kept this annual event going strong for the past 30 years, is in the works.

So, c'mon everybody and break out the old photo albums and jog your memory, because your pictures and captions will be needed to make this book a reality. Over the years, you might have wondered what will be become of those scrapbooks and photos from Elvis Weeks of the past? Well, wonder no more!

Be a part of 30th Anniversary Elvis Week history by submitting your photos for a very special publication that will commemorate 30 years of Elvis Week and fan friendship.

Deadline to submit photos is May 11, 2007! Visit Official Elvis site for more details and information on submitting your photos for the 30th Anniversary Photo Book. (News, Source: EPE)

Jerry Schilling to promote TCM Event: Jerry Schilling, author of “Me and a Guy Named Elvis” and longtime friend of Elvis, is wrapping up a European visit. He met with his publisher in London, and did promotion work for TCM, including a series of interviews. Jerry will be the tv-host for the special TCM Day on August 16th. Details soon to follow. “Me and a Guy Named Elvis” has sold 40,000 copies so far. Jerry said: “This is beyond my expectation. The book hasn’t been released that long, and there’s already a third print, with the UK release, the pocketbook release and Elvis Week yet to come.” (News, Source: Elvis Matters)

"The Early Years" 2CD set from BMG: Due for release May 4, 2007 from SONY/ BMG is the 2 CD set "The Early Years" containing 24 tracks.

Track listing:

Disc 1: 1. Heartbreak Hotel 2. Just Because - 2004 DSD remaster 3. I'm Left, You're Right, She's Gone
4. Don't Be Cruel 5. Harbor Lights - 2004 DSD remaster 6. Blue Moon 7. That's All Right - New Sound Remastered 8. I Forgot To Remember To Forget - 2004 9. Trying To Get To You - 2004 DSD remaster
10. I Got A Woman 11. Too Much 12. You're A Heartbreaker - 2004 DSD

Disc 2: 1. Hound Dog - 2003 Sony Remaster 2. Baby, Let's Play House - 2004 DSD 3. When It Rains, It Really Pours - 2004 4. Blue Suede Shoes - New Sound Remastered 5. Fool, Fool, Fool 6. Good Rockin' Tonight - 2004 DSD remaster 7. I Love You Because 8. I Don't Care If The Sun Don't Shine - 9. Mystery Train - 2004 DSD remaster 10. Blue Moon Of Kentucky 11. Rip It Up 12. Tomorrow Night - 2004 DSD remaster (News, Source: Elvis Nachrichten / Elvis News)

New US stage play - "Elvis People": Previews for Doug Grissom's new play, Elvis People, will begin June 6 at New World Stages/Stage 1. Directed by Henry Wishcamper, the production will officially open June 21. Casting will be announced shortly.

"No performer before or since," read Elvis People press notes, "has had the impact of Elvis Presley: from that first groundbreaking appearance on 'The Ed Sullivan Show' to Las Vegas to Graceland.

American Demographics reports that 84% of all Americans say their lives have been touched by Elvis in some way. Now, in this new play . . . you will meet some of the funny and touching cast of characters whose lives were forever changed by 'The King' as [playwright] Grissom traces the influence of Presley on our culture."

Elvis People will play Tuesday-Saturday evenings at 8 PM, with matinees Wednesdays and Saturdays at 2 PM and Sundays at 3 PM. Tickets, priced $41 (previews) and $65 (after opening), are available by calling (212) 239-6200. A special performance will be held Aug. 16 on the 30th anniversary of Presley's death. The evening, priced $99, will also include a post-show reception and talkback.

New World Stages is located in Manhattan at 340 West 50th Street, between Eighth and Ninth Avenues. Visit the Elvis People website (News, Source: Playbill.com)

Elvis owned ring to be auctioned: Grey Flannel Auctions reports that on May 16: Movie and Elvis fans will check in to see many sparkling items, among them:

o A fire opal ring given by Presley to Priscilla, then his fiancé;
o Clint Eastwood's jacket worn in the movie "Pink Cadillac"; and
o The bowtie worn by Sean Connery in the .007 movie "Doctor No."

For the latest bids on these spectacular lots, please consult www.greyflannelauctions.com (News, Source: PR.com)

Chart update: The U.S. Billboard Elvis Chart listings for the week ending April 28, 2007:

Top Pop Catalog Albums - Ultimate Gospel - down 13 to #32
Top Country Catalog Albums - Ultimate Gospel - down 1 to #4
Top Country Catalog Albums - Elvis 30 #1 Hits - remains at #16
Hot 100 Singles Sales - Heartbreak Hotel - down 3 to #44
Top Music Video - Elvis Lives - 25th Anniversary Concert - remains at #8
Top Comprehensive Music Video - 25th Anniversary Concert - remains at #8

No new entries or re-entries on the charts this week and no releases drop off the charts. (News, Source: Elvis International/Elvis News)

The landmark concert that Lew Allen serendipitously captured on film, and which is now featured photographically in "Elvis & The Birth Of Rock," took place two months after Presley's world-rocking debut on the Ed Sullivan Show, and just days after the premiere of hi

Memphis gets All shook up™ about Date Night with The King!: