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Sunday 31 December 2006

2007 is going to be another major ELVIS year. EIN ends this year with one of the first of many crazy Elvis headlines that we can all expect next year. Wishing you a very happy New Year's Eve to all our readers.

Will this be the year Elvis returns?: We live in a world of attention-grabbing headlines. So, as 2006 draws its last breath and makes its way into the history books, it's time to look forward to 2007. Headline-wise, I'm sure we'll see all kinds, and to that end there are certainly some that we will not likely see, or for that matter want to. The entertainment world could provide us with a vicarious thrill or two. Aside from the obvious antics of Madonna absconding a child or two, or Britney, Paris, and the like, I mean. So what could be better than spitting out your morning cornflakes as you see at the top of the page: "Elvis Presley ends 30-year hoax, announces world tour". Yeah, like we'd want to see a man approaching 70 cavorting around on stage like he's still 30, .. - sorry Mick. (News, Source:EIN/Winnipeg Sun)


Another Elvis connection dies: Songwriter Pierre Delanoe: Pierre Delanoe, who wrote the lyrics for more than 5,000 songs died Wednesday aged 88. He was known for writing some of France's best-loved tunes, many with singer-songwriter Gilbert Becaud. One was "Et maintenant," which was translated into English to become "What Now My Love," and was covered by artists including Elvis, Frank Sinatra and Barbra Streisand. Another of their famous hits was "Je t'appartiens," which became "Let It Be Me," was covered by the Everly Brothers, Tom Jones, Bob Dylan as well as a sensational version by Elvis.

In 2006 we also lost Elvis friends & colleagues Charlie Hodge, James Brown, Dennis Linde, William Speer (photographer), Richard Egan (actor), Shelley Winters (actor), Buddy Killen (music publisher) and now Pierre Delanoé. (News, Source: Various/EIN)


Lisa Marie & Priscilla Presley usher in 2007 in remote Irish castle: With barely a day left to wave 2006 goodbye, people all  over the world are getting ready to party and celebrate as they usher in the New Year. However, Elvis Presley's widow Priscilla and daughter Lisa Marie have opted for a quieter option. The two celebs are reportedly going to bring in 2007 holed up in a remote Irish castle to which they travelled to recently. The two Presleys will be staying at the exclusive Castle Gorteen Le Poer in Kilasheen, Co Tipperary, the home of Priscilla's pal, the reclusive Austrian artist Gottfried Helnwein. An insider revealed that the two will not have time to get bored, for while at the castle, they will be able to enjoy skeet shooting, archery and falconry, as well as pony treks in the vast castle grounds. "Priscilla is a big fan of Gottfried's art and there is loads for them to do," (News, Source: Various/EIN)


'Vegas Christmas with Elvis' DVD released: A 2 DVD import set that includes footage from 5 different shows Elvis did during the '75 and '76 Christmas Season engagements is out just in time for Christmas. It includes the 5th December 1975 show as well as four 1976 shows including the Closing show. The cover notes: 'Its a well-known fact that Elvis really enjoyed the Holiday Seasons and this really shows in his performances during this time. He was is excellent form and great mood throughout the shows. Jumpsuits for these performances include the "V-Neck", Indian, Inca Leaf, Blue Rainbow Swirl, & 'King Of Spades' that was worn the last time Elvis was to perform in Las Vegas'. This DVD set includes never-before-seen footage in excellent sound and picture quality. Each DVD runs over 1 hour. (News, Source: EIN)

 

Saturday 30 December 2006

Four Elvis Christmas videos: As we head towards the final days of 2006, EIN is still feeling the Elvis festive spirit and so we present you with four of our favourite Christmas YouTube videos for you to enjoy. Merry Christmas - and remember what Elvis sang,
 
Give thanks for all you've been blessed with
And hold your loved ones tight
For you know the Lord's been good to you
On a snowy Christmas night


Elvis Blue Christmas. By Rizzy25. Includes great footage of Graceland with its 1974 red decor.

Elvis - Blue Christmas, a 1977 performance - By Jeroen

Elvis - Santa Claus Is Back In Town - Elvis images by Frances (Kindhearted1)

On a Snowy Christmas Night - (picture compilation)  From  SonnyTCB


The Jordanaires' Ray Walker, the EIN interview: The Jordanaires formed in 1948 and are still going strong. Their style was recognised by a young Elvis who realised that they were the perfect backing group to match his own vocal style. They ended up working with Elvis until 1970 and performed on over half of his recorded material. During Christmas 2002 EIN spent a while talking with bass-singer Ray Walker. Ray told us some delightful stories about his life and time spent with Elvis. We are very happy to have the chance to republish this exclusive interview during this festive season. (Interviews, Source: EIN)

New Elvis CD, 'Pink Cadillac - The Recordings Of 1956': As Elvis' music falls into the public domain we are going to see more and more of these dodgy compilations. The first major sign is this 1956 selection 'Pink Cadillac - The Recordings Of 1956'. Described as "Elvis Presley's most beloved recordings were his Sun sides and the first years with RCA just prior to his induction into the army in 1958. In 1956, he had his first truly successful year, releasing some of his biggest hits ('Hound Dog', 'Don't Be Cruel', 'Heartbreak Hotel', etc.) and touring the U.S. to sell-out crowds. In the studio, he was a caged tiger, but live is when he really tore the place up. These 25 recordings come from this extremely prolific year and features many of his hits and album favorites performed as only Elvis could! Features 'Blue Suede Shoes', 'Lawdy Miss Clawdy', ' I Want You I Need You I Love You' and many more". EIN says, Buy the deluxe 'Elvis Presley' FTD CD instead. (News, Source: EIN)


James Brown's 'Elvis' dream for a Graceland style home: "Godfather of Soul" James Brown wanted his home turned into a Graceland-like museum after his death, according to his would-be widow. "James and I talked about that all the time," said Tomi Rae Hynie, "That's what he wanted. He wanted a Graceland." Tomi Rae, who's been barred from entering the singer's Beech Island, home ever since his Christmas Day death in Atlanta at age 73, said Brown's personal manager has legal documentation that permits her to live there as long as she wants before converting it into a museum in his memory. Efforts to reach the manager, Charles Bobbit, to confirm her claim were not successful. But Brown's agent recalled a conversation with Brown about Graceland about two years ago. "He said his house could be another Graceland," said Frank Copsidas. "He said 'Elvis did it, why can't I?' " He noted that Tomi Rae was not with Brown when he died and hadn't seen him for several weeks because she was "in California in rehabilitation." She was at a "retreat" fighting her dependence on anti-depressants, Tomi Rae told the Chronicle. "With my marriage and working and touring, I needed that, and James paid for that," she said. "I wanted to get off those pills, and I wanted to do it to help him get off those pills." (News, Source: EIN)

 

Friday 29 December 2006

"Elvis and I are the only true American originals. I love him and hope to see him in heaven. There'll never be another like that soul brother." - James Brown. (1933 -2006) R.I.P.


New expanded Graceland Museum exhibit for 2007: In March 2007 a special exhibit of Elvis' stage costumes from 1969-1977 will open in the Graceland visitor center at the Sincerely Elvis Museum. This is an exhibition space that will feature a new themed exhibit each year. The permanent exhibits at Graceland relating the story of Elvis' career, also featuring a significant display of costumes, will remain. The special exhibit however will feature more than 50 additional Presley stage outfits, such as the famed "jumpsuits," with metal and rhinestone studding and matching capes, and others with elaborate embroidery. In addition, there will be related photographs, archival documents and performance footage. The special exhibit will be on display for two years. (News, Source; EPE/Sanja/EIN)


EPE announces plans to carry the Elvis phenomenon to even greater heights in the new millennium: With younger and younger audiences discovering Elvis and the number of projects planned for 2007, the King of Rock & Roll continues to entertain with a career reaching new generations. The anniversary year begins with the January 8 celebration of his birthday at Graceland and continues through Elvis Week 2007 in August, which promises to be the largest ever.

Nearly thirty years ago on August 16, 1977, legendary entertainer Elvis Presley died at age 42. At the start of his career, his unique, instinctive, natural blending of pop, country, gospel and R&B music, presented with his charismatic and then-provocative style, touched off a revolution in music and popular culture. Today, his influence still reverberates and his presence seems more ubiquitous than ever. There are at least 400 active independent Elvis fan clubs around the globe and on the Internet there are hundreds of Web sites devoted to interest in the superstar in addition to the official site, Elvis.com. In recent years, Elvis CD and DVD releases have topped the sales charts in territories around the world. Today, licensing activity for official Elvis products and ventures is at an all-time high. Recently Atlantic Monthly magazine published the results of its poll of ten eminent historians to name the 100 most influential figures of American history. Elvis Presley is one of only a handful of entertainment artists to make the list.

Graceland Mansion welcomes over 600,000 visitors per year - half of them today are age 35 and under. In 2006, the Graceland staff played host to President George Bush and avowed Elvis fan, Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi of Japan, an event that generated extensive media coverage everywhere. Also in 2006, Graceland Mansion, the most famous home in America after The White House, was designated a National Historic Landmark in recognition of the fact that Elvis Presley lived there.

Now, EPE Inc. and CKX, Inc., along with their collaborators, licensees and venture partners, are preparing for a full and exciting year of activity in 2007, the 30th Anniversary of Elvis' passing, which is expected to help carry the Elvis phenomenon to even greater heights. It begins with the Elvis Presley Birthday Celebration at Graceland in January, follows through with special DVD and CD releases and special official products from licensees, and crescendos in August with what is expected to be the biggest of all the annual Elvis Week celebrations to date.

DVD and CD Releases: Currently on the global market as the 30th Anniversary year is about to dawn are the Summer 2006 single-disc concert releases Elvis: '68 Comeback - Special Edition DVD and Elvis: Aloha from Hawaii - Special Edition DVD, which are follow-ups to the 2004 smash hit release of deluxe box sets of material shot for these programs, and the November 2005 release Elvis - The Ed Sullivan Shows, a three-disc DVD set containing in their entirety the three Ed Sullivan Show episodes in which Elvis appeared. Completed and in limited release in 2006 are the single-disc DVD Elvis Lives - The 25th Anniversary Concert and the DVD box set Elvis: The Ultimate Movie Collection - Graceland Edition, both of which will see their full retail rollout in early 2007. Anticipated for 2007 are upgraded DVD re-releases and first-time DVD releases of a roster of Elvis Presley movies. In the summer of 2007, EPE is set to release an all-new and expanded edition of its popular DVD, Elvis Presley's Graceland - The Official Tour DVD.

TV Land: Throughout August 2007, the TV network will pay tribute to Elvis featuring his movies, televisions specials and other programming, including material from Elvis: '68 Comeback - Special Edition DVD and Elvis: Aloha from Hawaii - Special Edition DVD. "Elvis Month" on TV Land will be complemented by an off-air promotional campaign.

Graceland's Silver & Gold Anniversary and More: The year 2007 marks not only the 30th anniversary of the death of Elvis Presley, but also the 25th anniversary of the opening of Graceland Mansion for public tours and the 50th anniversary of Presley's purchase of his famed home. Elvis bought Graceland in March of 1957 and it opened to the public in June of 1982. In addition to the aforementioned new Graceland Tour DVD release, commemorating this dual anniversary will be the enormously popular artist Thomas Kinkade, who will unveil his special painting of Graceland Mansion and release limited edition prints, which will be available in both canvas and paper. The painting will be unveiled in a special event at Graceland in March 2007, approximately one year after Graceland was designated a National Historic Landmark.

Elvis 30th Anniversary Harley-Davidson: In January 2007, Bruce Rossmeyer's Harley-Davidson® motorcycles - the preferred brand of cycle enthusiast Elvis Presley - will open a permanent exhibition across the street from Graceland. The company will also introduce the design of a limited edition of thirty Harley-Davidson motorcycles to be specially customized in tribute to Elvis for the 30th Anniversary year. Construction on each of the thirty bikes will commence as each advance order comes in. All are scheduled for completion in the summer and purchasers will be given the option of attending a special ceremony at Graceland in August during Elvis Week 2007 to pick up their custom Elvis Harley-Davidsons. The design will be completed and unveiled in early 2007.

Elvis Week 2007 in Memphis: Tens of thousands of fans are expected to make the 30th Anniversary edition the biggest Elvis Week to date. Along with the traditional Candlelight Vigil at Graceland, key events are the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest, the first-ever official Elvis tribute artist contest presented by EPE, and Elvis: The 30th Anniversary Concert starring the real Elvis Presley via video technology, accompanied live on stage by an orchestra and a large cast of his original concert musicians and back-up singers. Elvis Week 2007, set for August 11-19, will include approximately four-dozen entertainment, social, sports and charity events. The 30th Anniversary Concert, to be staged at FedExForum in Memphis on August 16, is already over 70% sold out even though there has not been an actual press release to announce the concert and the first concert advertisement has yet to run.
The full roster of Elvis Week 2007 events presented by EPE and by participating organizations is still being planned. A continuously updated calendar of events can be found on Elvis.com or one can go directly to the calendar through the address ElvisWeek.com. (News, Source: EPE December 2006)

Thursday 28 December 2006

Scotty Moore celebrates his 75th Birthday: Winfield Scott Moore III was born on December 27, 1931. Scotty Moore was a participant in the historic session at the Sun Studio, July 5th 1954, that marked the birth of rock'n'roll. It is noteworthy that 'That's All Right' (Sun 209) was credited to "Elvis Presley, Scotty and Bill." Scotty would keep on working with Elvis until the 1968 Comeback show. Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones famously said "When I heard Heartbreak Hotel, I knew what I wanted to do in life. It was as plain as day. All I wanted to do in the world was to be able to play and sound like that. Everyone else wanted to be Elvis, I wanted to be Scotty Moore.'

Scotty Moore interview with EIN: Scotty Moore was in the delivery room when Rock'n' Roll was born. On July 5, 1954, guitarist Scotty Moore, bass player Bill Black and a young man from Tupelo, Mississippi, by the name of Elvis Presley recorded ‘That's All Right’ - and the world would never be the same again.’ Winfield Scott Moore III was born on December 27, 1931. To celebrate Scotty Moore's 75th Birthday EIN presents this exclusive Arjan Deelen interview. It is an interview well worth revisiting. (Interviews, Source: Arjan Deelen, EIN)

Elvis 1957 Studio Master tape for sale; Ebay is carrying the sale of an extremely Rare Original 1957 Recording Session Tape. It is a reel-to-reel studio "safety" tape of from Elvis' 1957 Jan/Feb sessions at Radio Recorders, Hollywood. The tape has been verified through BMG/RCA officials. Including twelve Masters including 'Party', 'All Shook Up' & 'Mean Woman Blues' the tape has paper splicing between each recording, a technique that has not been utilized since the 1960’s. It is believed to have belonged to Elvis engineer Thorne Nogar and is being sold for his family. It is, as described, "a piece of music history". However although the Ebay description says that it includes "multiple takes of all of the songs" EIN believes that Ernst Jorgensen has listened to this tape and that it contains nothing unreleased except for some minor studio dialogue. It is of course extremely rare and the bidding starts at US$28,000. Go here for more images. Ebay item number: 280062126156 -

'The Essential Elvis Presley': Sony/BMG have confirmed that 'The Essential Elvis Presley' will be released on January 9th 2007, the day after Elvis' birthday. It is part of their comprehensive series of "Essential" artist double albums.  Sony/BMG note a key selling-point as it being 'The only 2CD Elvis Hits collection available.' EIN note: the 9 Jan release is in the USA and EC. The album will be released in Australia on 2 February.

Tracklist: CD1 - That's All Right, Baby, Let's Play House, Mystery Train, Heartbreak Hotel, I Was The One, Blue Suede Shoes, Hound Dog, Don't Be Cruel, Love Me Tender, All Shook Up, Peace In The Valley, Jailhouse Rock, Trouble, Fever, It's Now Or Never, Reconsider Baby, Are You Lonesome Tonight?, Little Sister, Follow That Dream, Can't Help Falling In Love.

CD2 - Return To Sender, Devil In Disguise, Bossa Nova Baby, Viva Las Vegas, Big Boss Man, A Little Less Conversation, If I Can Dream, Memories, In The Ghetto, Suspicious Minds, Don't Cry Daddy, Kentucky Rain, Polk Salad  Annie, The Wonder Of You, I Just Can't Help Believin', Burning Love, Always On My Mind, Steamroller Blues, Hurt, Moody Blue.  (News, Source: Barry Mclean December 2006)

 

Wednesday 27 December 2006

New Elvis DVD 'Once Upon A Time In 1977': One of this year's cleverest import releases was EID's DVD "Once Upon A Time In 1971" (cover below) which matched Elvis home-video concert footage from November 1971 with the sensational audio of Elvis' Boston concert from the 'One Night Only' CD. While the home footage of Elvis was pretty rough in places, it was a captivating look at Elvis performing in 1971. EID follows up with the new 'Once Upon A Time In 1977 - The Complete February 77 Tour' released this month. Again this DVD cleverly compiles a "complete" 1977 concert using the best video and audio available.
The following 26 performances are featured on the DVD...
See See Rider (Hollywood, FL); I Got A Woman (St. Petersburg, FL); Love Me (Charlotte, NC); If You Love Me (Hollywood, FL); Fairytale (Charlotte, NC); You Gave Me A Mountain (Hollywood, FL); Big Boss Man (Orlando, FL); All Shook Up, Teddy Bear, Don't Be Cruel (St. Petersburg, FL); Jailhouse Rock (Orlando, FL); Fever (West Palm Beach, FL); My Way, Polk Salad Annie, It's Now or Never (Montgomery, AL); Early Morning Rain, Jerry Scheff Solo (Hollywood, FL); Blueberry Hill, Love Letters (St. Petersburg, FL); Hail Hail Rock and Roll, Funny How Time Slips Away (Hollywood, FL); Hurt, Hound Dog, Where No One Stands Alone, Unchained Melody (Montgomery, AL); Can't Help Falling In Love (Hollywood, FL)

This 1977 DVD interestingly coincides with the January FTD release 'Unchained Melody' which features Elvis' February 1977 Charlotte concert, as well as other matching tracks i.e. Blueberry Hill & Love Letters from St. Petersburg, Feb 14. The highlight would have to be the total rarity of 'Where No One Stands Alone' from Montgomery, Feb. 16.
The DVD also features 40 minutes of bonus material. A detailed EIN review will follow. (News, Source: EIN)

 


Nothing can lick the Elvis stamp! This year's Wonders of America set climbed to second place in the most popular stamps, but "Elvis is still The King", the Postal Service said Tuesday. Some 124.1 million of the 1993 Elvis Presley stamps were saved by Americans, according to the post office, which does an annual survey of 10,000 households to determine which stamps are most popular. Rising into second spot was the Wonders of America set with 87.5 million stamps saved, the agency said.  "Stamp collecting continues as one of the worlds most popular educational hobbies that the entire family can enjoy," said Postmaster General John E. Potter. Following Elvis and the 'Wonders of America' in popularity were 'Wildflowers' (1992) 76.1 million stamps saved; Rock & Roll/Rhythm & Blues (1993) 75.9 million and DC Comics Super Heroes (2006) 73.0
million.  And in comparison to Elvis, 'Legends of Baseball' (2000) sold 53.9 million and Marilyn Monroe (1995) 46.4 million. (News, Source: USPS/EIN)

 

Tuesday 26 December 2006

Elvis was in the building: ELVIS Presley may have been the King, but New York was a corner of the kingdom he abandoned in 1957 after his last appearance on "The Ed Sullivan Show." He was a hunk, a hunk o' burning love everywhere except here. Then, in 1972, on his big comeback tour. Presley knew if he wanted to keep his crown he had to play Madison Square Garden.

Anticipation sweetens any moment, so making New York wait 15 years for a four-night engagement in June 1972 had New York in a frenzy. At a press conference, he joked about the state of rock 'n' roll and his last New York gig, saying, "Man, I was tame compared to what they do now. Are you kidding? I didn't do anything but just jiggle."

But jokes aside, his nervousness began to show when he told reporters, "My image is one thing and the human being is another . . . it's hard to live up to an image." Fortunately the King sucked up his fear and in a gleaming white jumpsuit, he more than managed to live up to the image.

The series was a triumph and tomorrow night at 10, it's honored on the MSG Network as one of the Garden's "50 Greatest Moments." Post music critic Al Aronowitz, backstage before the first concert, described a nervous Elvis sipping a Pepsi asking, "How's the crowd? Are they young or old?"

The answer the King got was "Everybody's out there." And they were: hippie kids and their bobbysoxer moms who worshiped Elvis since the '50s. Fellow musicians included John Lennon, George Harrison, Bob Dylan and David Bowie. In Elvis' 21-song set were covers like "Proud Mary" and "Funny How Time Slips Away" and the hits of his youth, including "All Shook Up," "Heartbreak Hotel" and, of course, "Hound Dog." And while the King never officially returned to the Garden, suspicious minds wonder who that guy is trying to order a deep-fried peanut butter and banana sandwich at concession stands. (News, Source: tiny.url - Dan Aquilante/Charmaine Voisine)


Godfather of Soul dies aged 73: James Brown has died following hospitalisation for pneumonia. The charismatic and colorful entertainer was a good friend of Elvis', attending his funeral in Memphis in 1977. Brown's frenetic singing style and bold rhythms brought funk into the mainstream and influenced a new generation of black music. Brown said of Elvis:

"I wasn't just a fan, I was his brother. He said I was good and I said he was good; we never argued about that. Elvis was a hard worker, dedicated, and God loved him. Last time I saw him was at Graceland. We sang Old Blind Barnabus together, a gospel song. I love him and hope to see him in heaven. There'll never be another like that soul brother." (News, Source: Reuters/EIN)


2007 Collingwood Elvis Festival in Canada - tickets now on sale: Don’t miss out on the best seats in the house at the 2007 Collingwood Elvis Festival. Tickets for the 13th annual event celebrating the life and legacy of Elvis Presley go on sale at 10am on Monday, November 27, 2006. Fans of Elvis, Rock & Roll, and summer celebrations alike can purchase tickets by phone toll free at 1-866-444-1162 or save time by ordering and printing your tickets in the comfort of your home online at www.collingwoodelvisfestival.com.

The 13th Annual Collingwood Elvis Festival, the largest of its kind in the world, takes place Thursday, July 26 – Sunday, July 29, 2007 and this year honours the 30th anniversary of Elvis’ passing. Collingwood’s 2007 theme, Elvis – Then, Now & Always, reflects on the life and career of Elvis Presley, his continued fame spanning 30 years since his passing, and the commitment of tribute artists and festivals the world throughout carrying Presley’s legacy into future decades.

In a major new development for 2007, the Collingwood Elvis Festival has partnered with Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. (EPE), and will serve as one of the licensed preliminary competitions for the recently announced EPE official Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest.  Elvis tribute artists selected in Collingwood will participate in the finals during Elvis Week in Memphis in August. (News, Source: Charmaine Voisine)


Most uninformed comment about Elvis in 2006?: It usually takes a lot to rile me when I hear modern day, young music journalists talking about Elvis.  However, I did take exception to Ange Pulvirenti  in an interview she did recently on the Australian entertainment show, Backstage Pass, with one of the current singing sensations, James Blunt.  Apparently James Blunt was in the Army before embarking on his very successful singing/song writing career. 
 
In the interview, Ms Pulvirenti refers to him being unusual in that he is a soldier turned singer.  To his credit Blunt replied mentioning both Elvis and Jimi Hendrix as other soldier-singers. 
 
To this, Ms Pulvirenti says: 'Oh, Elvis doesn't count because he went in to the Army after he was already a star and it was sort of publicity stunt anyway'. (News, Source: Amber Smith)

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


Schilling memoir toppled: Jerry Schilling's popular memoir "Me and A Guy Named Elvis" has been dethroned in the US as the best selling Elvis book. In the lead up to Christmas, Graceland An Interactive Pop-Up Tour was the most popular book choice with buyers. (News, Source: ElvisBookResearch)

 

Monday 25 December 2006 .............................................................................................. Ho! Ho! Ho!

The staff at EIN wish all of our readers a wonderful Christmas and a happy New Year!

What Santa looks like without his beard!

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L.A.M. Productions are proud to announce the World Premiere of Linda Ann McConnell's debut single,

The Memphis Lullaby

 
on the Elvis-express free internet radio show on January 8th 2007.
Visit the Radio site at:
 First there was the book, then the film, now the music... 

 

Track listing:  

1. The Memphis Lullaby.

 2. Always.  

3. The Memphis Lullaby. (String Version)  

4. The Memphis Lullaby. (Alternative Mix) 

5. The Memphis Lullaby Finale. (featuring Elvis Presley)  

(All songs written by Linda Ann McConnell)

  
 
An original tribute to Elvis Aaron Presley.
The single can be purchased from

www.thememphislullaby.com from 8th Jan

(News, Source: L.A.M. Productions)


"Songs That Inspired The King Vol. 2": Here is volume 2 of the “Songs That Inspired The King” featuring hits by Elvis and the original version by the original artists. (News, Source: Elvis News)

BBC Radio Elvis Special on 27 December: As we first reported on 20 December, BBC Radio Cornwall's Matt Shepherd is presenting another Elvis Special this Christmas. Matt will be talking to Joe Esposito about his new book, and Todd Morgan from EPE will be talking about Graceland at Christmas, and their plans to mark the 30th anniversary of Elvis' death. There will be classic hits, and rarities with Matt who is a massive Elvis fan. Don't worry if you don't live in Cornwall as you can hear the show live online from 6.05pm UK time on Wednesday 27 December 2006. Just log on to www.bbc.co.uk/cornwall and click on the 'listen live' option at the top of the page. (News, Source: Matt Shepherd)


New CD releases in the EC: The discount label DISKY will release the compilation “Elvis Rocks – Blue Suede Shoes” on January 5, 2007. Several other titles have been released the past month according to the Tower Records website. So far only the first title is a CD that hasn't been released in Europe before. The titles available since November 28, 2006 are: “King of the West 1954”, “Memphis Flash”, “Concert Anthology” and “The SUN Studio Sessions”. (News, Source: Elvis News)


UK fans can celebrate Elvis' birthday in Memphis from £639: A four-night Elvis Extravaganza costs from £639pp, including room-only at the four-star Marriott Downtown Memphis, a Graceland Elvis Entourage VIP tour and car hire. Flight departs Gatwick on January 5. Details: 0870 904 0920, www.americansky.co.uk (News, Source: Sunday Mirror UK)

 

Sunday 24 December 2006

Elvis' personal copy of "Kenpo Karate" book for sale: This book was written by Elvis' good friend, Ed Parker. It apparently comes from Elvis' personal collection. The description reads:

"Elvis Presley's personally owned copy  of  the book "Kenpo Karate The Law Of  The Fist and the Empty Hand"  written by Elvis ' karate instructor Ed Parker. The hard back book measure  9 X 6 inches and has a dust cover which has noticeable wear. Elvis has written on the cover of the book as well as underscored numerous pages throughout the book as well as made handwritten notations in the margins of the book as was his custom. Book is copyright 1960 and has been signed to Elvis by Ed Parker on the inside fly leaf. From Parker's notation it is reasonable to assume Parker has given Elvis  one copy  before as the  inscription makes note of Elvis not losing this copy. It was very common of Elvis to give copies of books to his friends and loved ones.The book has  approximately 15-22 pages of notations throughout.Book comes with a letter of provenance from Homer Gilleland, and Charlie Hodge who was present when the book was given to Alan Fortas whom also includes a letter regarding the book received from Elvis." (News, Source: ebay)


Songwriter Dennis Linde dies: On Friday, 63-year old composer Dennis Linde died. He wrote the Elvis hit record 'Burning Love'. Linde died from a rare long disease. He was rewarded with many awards during his career, among them are the 'Nashville Songwriter of the Year' and 'BMI's Song Writer Of The Year'. Linde wrote approximately 400 songs, of which "I Got A Feeling In My Body" and "For The Heart" ended up in Elvis's repertoire as well. (News, Source: Elvis Matters/Elvis News/Amber Smith)

 

Saturday 23 December 2006
EPE and Sun Records merchandise agreement: Sun Records (the licensee holders, not the actual studio) has just reached an agreement with Elvis Presley Enterprises. Starting Spring 2007, Sun Records will start selling official Elvis/ Sun souvenirs. So far, only ‘Sun Only’ souvenirs have been made, but that is soon to change. A first example is available at the new website www.sunrecords.com. (News, Source: Elvis Matters/Elvis News)

Updated Today: Almost Elvis: With a raft of Christmas, New Year's and Elvis 2007 Birthday Shows announced, EIN has made a major update to its popular page, Almost Elvis. More than 20 news and visual items have been added.

Elvis alive and well in Viva Las Parkes: In early January, the 10,000 residents of Parkes will add to their town's population by 50 per cent. The occasion? The Parkes Annual Elvis Festival. Now in its 15th year the celebration sees hip-swiveling Elvis impersonators and more than a few Priscilla wannabes arrive from all over the world. Elvis look-alikes play golf, sing gospel, get married in true Las Vegas style with Elvis celebrants and eat lots of fried chicken.
The Elvis festival has had a chequered history, says Parkes Champion Post editor Roel ten Cate, but after a campaign by their paper and support from the local council, it now continues to go from strength to strength. The Elvis Express from Sydney to Parkes is already booked out, but Elvis desperados need not fear, there is space in the Tent City at North Parkes Oval (about $30 per person a night) and many homes are offering to host extra visitors. Parkes is in the central east of NSW, about five hours drive from Sydney (375kms). If you are not up for the drive, there's always the train in 2008.

Watch the tribute to the NSW country town of Parkes and their ongoing love affair with American crooner Elvis Presley. The ClubsNSW Parkes Elvis Festival runs from January 10-14. The interview is with Parkes Champion Post editor Roel ten Cate, interviewer is Brenda Cunningham-Lewis with multi-media by Jay Lowe. (News, Source: Amber Smith)

Visit EIN's "Parkes Elvis Festival 2007" page

View video of "Parkes Elvis Festival"

 

Friday 22 December 2006

Elvis to be awarded U.S. Army Medal: According to a posting on the 2nd To None Messageboard the U.S. Army is going to give Elvis Presley a medal as a birthday present. Representatives from the Army will present the Elvis estate with a special certificate and medal, which Elvis earned but never received. It's in recognition of his Army service during the Cold War. The presentation will come complete with a formal color guard ceremony and will be held on Graceland's front lawn on Jan. 8, Presley's birthday. (News, Source: Elvis 2nd To None /Elvis News)


 Rumors of remaining Elvis films on DVD resurface: According to a posting on the FECC messageboard a Dutch DVD site newsletter mentions possible DVD releases for "This Is Elvis", "Charro", "Girl Happy", "Kissin' Cousins", "Live a Little Love a Little" and "Stay Away Joe". These discs should be due for a possible release in august 2007. No mentioning of "Tickle Me". Remember these lists are with reservations and Warner could change release date or withdraw them. (News, Source: FECC)

"Elvis A Legendary Performer Vol. 3" released: After volumes 1 and 2, the third edition of A Legendary Performer DVD has now been released.

This time, the producers focused on seventies excerpt, highlighting some "unusual" shows from 1977.

A TV trailer for the Singer Special (1968) and home movies of the Memphis Sessions (1969) are among the other eyecatchers. (News, Source: EP Gold)


Elvis collectable inadvertently released in Australia: Amber Smith tells EIN that Payless Entertainment in Australia has released a double CD album called Rock 'n' Roll Jukebox. The front cover prominently features Elvis both visually and narratively as one of the artists on the set. The catch is there are no Elvis tracks on the release! Elvis collectors take note. (News, Source: Amber Smith)


Chart update #1: Coutesy of Elvis International here are the U.S. Billboard chart listings for the week ending December 30, 2006:

Top Holiday Albums - It's Christmas Time - remains at #17
Top Holiday Albums - Elvis Christmas - up 5 to #22
Billboard Top 200 Albums - Elvis Christmas - down 22 to #105
Comprehensive Album Chart - It's Christmas Time - down 25 to #112
Comprehensive Album Chart - Elvis Christmas - down 23 to #126
Top Pop Catalog Albums - It's Christmas Time - down 3 to #14
Top Country Albums - Elvis Christmas - down 6 to #22
Top Country Catalog Albums - Blue Christmas - remains at #16
Top Country Catalog Albums - Elvis 30 #1 Hits - up 3 to #22(sg)
Hot 100 Singles Sales - Heartbreak Hotel - up 9 to #27(sg)
Top Music Video - Elvis: '68 Comeback Special - up 2 to #13
Top Music Video - Elvis: Aloha from Hawaii - up 2 to #19
Top Comprehensive Music Video - Elvis: '68 Comeback Special - up 2 to #13
Top Comprehensive Music Video - Elvis: Aloha from Hawaii - up 2 to #19 (News, Source: Elvis International)

Chart update #2: Elvis' Christmas Wishes album is currently #3 in the Midprice album chart in Finland (week 51). Meanwhile, Elvis 30 #1 Hits has sold almost 80,000 copies in Finland. In Finland a gold record is awarded for sales of 15,000 and platinium for 30,000. (News, Source: changeofhabit/FECC)


Libertyland to get a second chance?: There is a good chance that LibertyLand begins a second life next year. However, the deal to open a new amusement park in Memphis hinges on keeping Elvis' favorite roller coaster, the Zippin Pippin. The Memphis City Council approved a nonbinding letter of intent by the Joyland Amusement organization to open a new park by May 31 at the former location of Libertyland.
Owner Robert Barnard says the Zippin Pippin is essential to the park. The roller coaster was bought at auction and resold to Carolina Crossroads for only 2.500 dollar. Barnard says his group would be willing to buy the coaster if given a long-term lease on the park. The Zippin Pippin will be restored to its original condition, and plans are to advertise it as ‘Elvis Presley’s Favorite Ride’. The new owners-to-be are willing to invest 1.5 million dollar in the amusement park. (News, Source: EP Gold /Elvis News)

Second song allegedly co-written by Elvis for sale: Paul Terry King has announced the sale of a second song allegedly co-written by Elvis. As EIN has reported on several occasions during 2006, many Elvis insiders were dismissive of the legitimacy of King's claim regarding an earlier song allegedly co-written by Elvis, If I'd Only Bought Her Roses. With a nice dash of clever hype, here is the story of the latest suspect song:

Songwriter Paul Terry King (co- author of the last known song composed but never released by Elvis) is now auctioning off his copyrighted interest to the song titled, "Just Like Rollin' Up Hill" (registered under Elvis Presley's BMI work number 7600186 on BMI.com).

Elvis Presley and former American Studios songwriter Paul Terry King co- wrote two songs in 1973 and performed them privately - "If I'd Only Bought Her Roses" and "Just Like Rollin' Up Hill."

"If I'd Only Bought Her Roses," US copyright PAu-1810-413, was purchased by Elvis-A-Rama in 2005. Elvis-A-Rama was planning an Elvis impersonation contest with the winning contestant singing "If I'd Only Bought Her Roses."

The song (along with remaining assets of Elvis-A-Rama) were purchased by billionaire Robert Sillerman's company CKX in 2005 for an undisclosed amount prior to release.

Sillerman purchased an 80% stake in Graceland in 2004 and last year acquired the hit show American Idol. To date Sillerman has let Elvis Presley's last known song, "Just Like Rollin' Up Hill," slip through the cracks. You can hear it on http://www.ElvisSong.info.

So, devoted fans, music enthusiasts, entrepreneurs and/or entertainers can now bid and get copyright and performance rights to one of the most prized possessions of the King himself, his music.

"It's Now or Never!": Sillerman is acquiring everything Elvis. This opportunity will never be available to the public again.

The song will be available to the public for auction on eBay Jan. 19th, 2007. Bid opens at $10,000 at 5 PM PST. To listen to song, press inquiries, etc., go to http://www.ElvisSong.info or contact eBay powerseller Mike Waters at 801-628-5323. (News, Source: Google /Elvis News)

 

Thursday 21 December 2006

EPE buys Chinese restaurant near Graceland: Elvis Presley Enterprises Inc. has bought China Buffet, a restaurant at 3641 Elvis Presley Blvd., from CNL APF Partners LP for $1 million. The 5,200-square-foot restaurant was built in 1991 and sits on .8 acres on the west side of Elvis Presley Boulevard south of Bluebird Road. The Shelby County Assessor in 2006 appraised it at $490,100. CNL Income Fund VIII Ltd., the predecessor company of CNL APF Partners, bought the property in August 1991 for about $877,000.

The restaurant will remain in operation as is, said Todd Morgan, spokesman for Elvis Presley Enterprises (EPE). Morgan said EPE saw this as an opportunity to invest near other EPE-owned properties. The restaurant is adjacent to the driveway of Elvis Presley's Heartbreak Hotel at 3677 Elvis Presley Blvd. In February 2005, Sports Entertainment Enterprises Inc. doing business as CKX Inc., a company owned by Robert F.X. Sillerman, bought an 85 percent interest in EPE. A year later, CKX announced plans to enhance Graceland visitors' experiences in the Whitehaven area around Graceland, while preserving the integrity of the mansion itself. CKX Inc. is traded on Nasdaq under the symbol CKXE. (News, Source: The Daily News Online & Chandler Reports/Charmaine Voisine)


Elvis in new U2 video clip: U2's brand new single, "Window in The Skies", features footage from the Stage Show (1956) and the '68 Comeback Special. The technically amazing clip shows Elvis actually singing to the song. Other artists play a part in the clip too. The clip is available on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VskbxuehP3I (Source: Elvis Matters/Elvis News)


Elvis "Love Me Tender" contract for sale: Movie studio Fox auctions movie star contracts: Movie studio 20th Century Fox will next month auction off more than 200 documents signed by stars such as Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley and Marlon Brando, Daily Variety reported on Wednesday. Proceeds from the sale, set to take place in New York on January 25 through auctioneer Swann Galleries, will benefit the Motion Picture & Television Fund, a charity for Hollywood actors and other employees.

Among the offerings are a 1946 internal memo advising that Norma Jean Dougherty was changing her professional name to Marilyn Monroe; a contract allowing Presley to violate strict grooming codes and wear his hair however he saw fit for "Love Me Tender," his 1956 feature film debut; and Brando's 1951 contract for "Viva Zapata," which paid him almost $125,000 for the film, the trade paper said.

Other contracts on the block have been signed by the likes of Lucille Ball, Cary Grant, Will Rogers, Rita Hayworth, Clark Gable, Katharine Hepburn, Lana Turner, Dean Martin, John Steinbeck, Natalie Wood, the Three Stooges, and Judy Garland, according to Swann's Web site.

"These papers are so cool that, as a fan of that history, I will have to restrain myself from bidding," Daily Variety quoted studio co-chairman Tom Rothman as saying. Fox is a unit of News Corp. (News, Source: Reuters)


Elvis Presley - The Collection: Sony/BMG USA has issued a set presenting three original album classics.

It contains Elvis Presley (first album), Elvis (second album) and Loving You. (News, Source: Barry McLean /FECC)


Elvis items added to Memphis Hard Rock Cafe: The World famous Hard Rock Cafe on Beale Street in Memphis, has completely been re-designed. Visitors cant walk in without being overwhelmed by the many Elvis related items. One of the eye catchers, is Scotty Moore's Gibson Super 400 guitar, the big, handsome, cognac-colored guitar Elvis wielded in his 1968 comeback special.

The much expanded Elvis collection also includes the denim jacket he wore in "Jailhouse Rock”, rare photos of Presley's childhood and teenaged years acquired from Elvis Presley Enterprises., a tank banner from Company D 1st Battalion 32nd Armor Division that was signed by Elvis in Germany, a two-piece stage jumpsuit from 1972, a suit Elvis wore in "Fun in Acapulco" and a parade uniform he wore in "Frankie and Johnny". (News, Source: Elvis Matters/Elvis News)


Annual Elvis Birthday Celebration: The Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway is celebrating Elvis's 72nd Birthday January 6th and 7th in Palm Springs CA with a  Poolside Concert and Elvis Celebrities.  See attached poster for all the details. Visit www.elvishoneymoon.com for ticket purchases and more information (News, Source: Charmaine Voisine)

Jerry Schilling memoir gains a new publisher: Now in its third printing through publishing house, Gotham Books, Jerry Schilling's memoir, Me and a Guy Named Elvis, has been announced for issue by Thomson Gale Publishers in the US in late February 2007. Hardcover; ISBN:078629289X/ISBN-13: 9780786292899. (News, Source: ElvisBookResearch EIN)

 

Wednesday 20 December 2006

Now available - "Elvis Decoded: A Fan's Guide To Deciphering The Myths And Misinformation": Patrick Lacy's long awaited examination of Elvis conspiracy theories has been released. About the book:

Author Patrick Lacy is more than an Elvis fan. He has spent nearly ten years researching, writing and talking to some of the most credible -- and incredible -- sources in the strange, claim-filled world surrounding the myths and legend of Elvis.  His travels have taken him from Washington to Memphis, from Lauderdale Courts to Graceland, and from Tupelo to Las Vegas.

Author Marshall Terrill says: Patrick Lacy sifts through a mountain of information and dissects the singer's life and death with the precision of a surgeon and the analytical mind of a forensic scientist. If you're still convinced that Elvis is alive after reading this well-researched offering, perhaps you need to have your pulse checked.” (News, Source: Elvis Decoded)

Buy the book

Visit the Elvis Decoded website

Check out EIN's Elvis Conspiracy page


BBC Radio Elvis Special on 27 December: BBC Radio Cornwall's Matt Shepherd is presenting another Elvis Special this Christmas. Matt will be talking to Joe Esposito about his new book, and Todd Morgan from EPE will be talking about Graceland at Christmas, and their plans to mark the 30th anniversary of Elvis' death. There will be classic hits, and rarities with Matt who is a massive Elvis fan. Don't worry if you don't live in Cornwall as you can hear the show live online from 6.05pm UK time on Wednesday 27 December 2006. Just log on to www.bbc.co.uk/cornwall and click on the 'listen live' option at the top of the page. (News, Source: Matt Shepherd)


Special holiday programming on Elvis Radio: Sirius Satellite 13 has a great lineup of special programming from Christmas Eve through New Year's Day.  Much to much to list here, so check it out on the Elvis Radio page of Sirius.com!: (News, Source: EPE)


Keith Alverson opens Elvis Expo in Belgium: Photographer Keith Alverson will present a large number of unique live pictures of Elvis for a One Day Only Exposition in Belgium on January 6, 2007 at the Elvis Birthday Party of the Dutch/Belgian fanclub ElvisMatters . He will comment his pictures during a slide show on big screen. Included in the tickets are live music, warm and cold buffet, free drinks all night and an extra large Birthday Cake. Info and tickets (37/45 euro) through info@elvismatters.com. (News, Source: Elvis Matters/Elvis News)


A must have for Lisa Marie Presley fans:
 
Lisa Marie Presley Ringtones (Source: Charmaine Voisine)

Book About The History Of Memphis published: Jim Browder of Memphis, informed his book  "Memphis.......JB Style", was published today. Jim tells , It is over 200 pages and tells history of memphis from 1819 to date. It contains  a lot of detailed information about Elvis, and will be available to Elvis fans. (News, Source: Muris Colgan/EP Gold)

2006/12/19                        Muiris Colgan   

Tuesday 19 December 2006

A Day In The West Presents Elvis Presley Movie Memories: Sedona, Arizona: When Bob Bradshaw came to Sedona back in 1945 there wasn't much here. Over the next 50 years,  many films were made in Sedona and Bob was a part of most of them, serving as location scout, stuntman, and even actor. He built the first western town for use in the booming movie industry (located beneath Coffee Pot Rock), and was one of the first Marlboro Men - many say he is still alive because he never actually smoked. Bob Bradshaw is also one of the renowned early photographers of Sedona.

The Adventure Company and A Day In The West are presenting brief vignettes of selected Bob Bradshaw's photographs and movie memories.

In 1967, the movie was Stay Away Joe, starring Elvis Presley, Katy Jurado, Burgess Meredith, Joan Blondell, L.Q. Jones, Warren Vanders, Buck Kartalian, Susan Trustman, Quentin Dean, Henry Jones, Anne Seymour, Thomas Gomez, Doug Henderson, Angus Duncan and Michael Love. The Hollywood studio was MGM.


"I found a house for him (Elvis) to stay in below King's Ransom on Oak Creek. I found another place for his Memphis Mafia entourage nearby. Security was a big thing, and most of us weren't used to that kind of protection. The movie took 2.5 months to film, and a lot of it was shot on the Bradshaw Ranch. Elvis was a nice guy, very down to earth, and seemed to enjoy the process of filming in Sedona."  - Bob Bradshaw

Bradshaw was the first to offer tours of the Sedona Red Rocks on horseback, and created what is now known as the "Broken Arrow" trail. Although commercial jeeps started driving tours on the Broken Arrow trail in 1958, the trail remained virtually unchanged until 1985. A Sedona icon and popular photographer, you'll see Bob Bradshaw's work all over Sedona and Arizona. For many years he contributed images to Arizona Highways. He still lives in Sedona. (Celluloid Elvis, Source: Rob DeMayo, A Day In The West)

"Elvis Presley Inspirations": EIN announced publication of this book on 13 Dec 2006.

Here is the cover artwork and publisher's pr.

This 160 page, 6x6", hardcover book by Mike Evans will be released in May 2007. This is what the publisher, Andrews McMeel Publishing, says about it: "To commemorate the 30th anniversary of Elvis Presley's death on August 16, 2007, music historian Mike Evans introduces direct quotes from Presley—culled from the few rare interviews given during Presley's lifetime—and stylizes them amid a backdrop of black-and-white iconic images." (News, Source: Elvis News)


"The Essential Elvis Presley" CD: Collectors will be interested to know that Sony-BMG Australia has advised EIN that the February 2007 release of this doublke album will be an Australian pressing (as against an imported edition). (News, Source: Sony BMG)


Unusual piece of Presley history bought: The American history buff and Elvis expert Julian Riley has bought the old (abandoned) town hall of Verona, Mississippi where Gladys and Vernon married in 1933. Riley’s wish is to restore the entire site to its former glory. Riley is also one of the authors of a new encyclopaedia on Elvis’s family. The ‘family bible’ with some unusual family pictures should be in print by August 2007. (News, Source: Elvis Matters/Elvis News)
Schilling memoir into third printing & Elvis-Nixon meeting suit on display: Jerry Schilling was on Sirius the other day he said that his hard cover book is now in it's third printing. The book will be out in paperback edition including an extra chapter in July 2007. Jerry also said that he found out today that the Nixon Presidential Library will have the suit Elvis wore to met Nixon on display, and this may happen as early as January. (News, Source: Elvis Unlimited /Elvis News)
Biography of legendary songwriter "Doc" Pomus: The only biography of colorful and legendary songwriter Doc Pomus, who wrote such beloved songs as "Lonely Avenue," "Save the Last Dance for Me," and "Viva Las Vegas"

"Doc was more than a man among men. He was the sun." (Lou Reed)


One of the most original, influential, and commercially successful American songwriters, Doc Pomus (1927-1991) is remembered best for the dozens of hits he wrote during rock 'n' roll's first decade. A role model for several generations of composers, Doc was renowned for his mastery of virtually every popular style, from the gutbucket rhythm and blues of "Lonely Avenue" to the symphonic invention of "Save the Last Dance for Me" to the pop confection of "Viva Las Vegas." His songs have been recorded by everyone from Ray Charles, Elvis Presley, and B.B. King to Bob Dylan, Led Zeppelin, and Bruce Springsteen.

Despite his successes, few acquaintances knew that this writer of jukebox hits led one of the most dramatic lives of his time. Spanning extravagant wealth and desperate poverty, suburban family life and the depths of New York's underworld, enduring love and persistent loneliness, Doc's story remains one of the great untold American lives.

Lonely Avenue is a beautifully written narrative that reads like a novel, fortified by full access to Doc Pomus's family and friends, voluminous journals, and archives.

# Hardcover: 416 pages........# Publisher: Da Capo Press (February 26, 2007)......# ISBN: 0306813009

About the Author: Alex Halberstadt's writing has appeared in the New York Times, the Washington Post, GQ, the Los Angeles Times, the Oxford American, Grand Street, Dissent, and elsewhere. He is best known for his award-winning articles on American music that appear on Salon.com. He lives in Brooklyn, New York.

Peter Guralnick (Foreword) is the author of the best-selling two-volume biography of Elvis Presley, Last Train to Memphis and Careless Love. Guralnick was one of Doc's favorite authors and a close friend. He lives in Massachusetts.

Monday 18 December 2006

"This Is Elvis" DVD update: The Commercial Appeal included this information in a recent article:

Solt says he has more Presley DVDs in the works, including an upgrade of "Elvis: The Great Performances" -- a three volume documentary series from the early '90s that he produced. Solt plans on remastering the discs and adding bonus material and reissuing the discs after the rights revert back to his company in early 2008.

One project that may not be making its way to DVD -- at least in the lavish form that had been expected -- is Solt and Malcolm Leo's 1981 Presley documentary "This Is Elvis." The film, a combination of archival news and performance footage as well as dramatic re-creations, was released in a now out-of-print VHS edition in 1982. That version was different than what was seen in theaters and on television, as the producers could not get clearance to include "Are You Lonesome Tonight" on the video, thus robbing the film of its denouement, a scene of an aging, addled Presley struggling his way through the song's spoken-word recitation. With that rights issue cleared, Solt and Leo also decided that the new DVD version would revamp the documentary's narrative by losing the majority of the re-creation scenes -- featuring a handful of actors playing Presley throughout his life.

In August, British music magazine MOJO reported that a deluxe edition of "This Is Elvis" -- featuring both the original theatrical version and a new director's cut of the film plus bonus material -- would be released by Warner Bros. in August 2007, to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Presley's death. But Solt and project partner Malcolm Leo now say the deluxe DVD plans have been tabled by Warner Bros., and they're uncertain in what, if any, form the disc will come out next year.

"There was a great deal of planning, and initially the cooperation from Warner Bros was terrific," says Leo. "And then we got into an assessment of how and when was the best time to do it -- obviously with the thirtieth anniversary of Elvis' death coming up, an opportunity was there. But then suddenly certain cost issues came into play."

According to Solt, Warner's current policy on all new, expanded DVD projects is to simultaneously ready a high-definition version of the film in order to meet with that technology when it becomes more prominent in the next couple years.

"Unfortunately, 'This Is Elvis' is a patchwork of a thousand sources, so to go back to every one of them and high-def them is a very, very expensive process," he says. "The studio typically sees things in terms of a normal 35 millimeter feature film, but our film is not that -- it's a patchwork quilt. Unfortunately, as much as they understood that, they still wanted to upgrade to a level that was going to be cost-prohibitive and which has ultimately doomed the project for now."

A similar patchwork documentary, The Who's "The Kids Are Alright," was released to much acclaim in an expanded edition in 2003, and Solt had hoped to do the same for "This Is Elvis," utilizing the digital clean-up process brought to bear on the Sullivan DVDs.

"We had ways of doing a beautiful new version that would've cost a third of what they were suggesting, and that's what we wanted to do," he says. "But they won't go forward unless they can spend the big bucks, and they can't afford to spend the big bucks, so there goes the project for right now."

Another part of what doomed the expanded "This Is Elvis" may have been internal financial issues with Warner Bros.

"The truth is they've had a rough year at Warners -- they've had so many budget cuts," says Solt. "I hate to say it, but I think we got caught up in that." Leo's other pending Warner Bros. project -- a DVD of the unseen screen tests for "Gone with the Wind" -- is also in limbo, likely for the same reasons.

Warner Bros. would not comment specifically about "This Is Elvis." But Warner Home Video representative Ronnie Sass did note that the company "plans on fully honoring Elvis in this coming 30th anniversary year. With Warner Bros. owning 17 Elvis films -- more than any other studio -- you can imagine we'll be offering consumers some pretty wonderful choices."

In all likelihood, Warner's 30th anniversary Presley DVD rollout will include a bare-bones release of "This Is Elvis," while a deluxe edition may yet come out down the line.

"I have every reason to think that version will exist ultimately," says Leo. "Of course, just when that will happen is hard to say." (News, Source: Commercial Appeal)


Listen to "The Million Dollar Quartet" BBC radio show


Elvis owned necklace for sale on ebay: eBay surfers surely must have noticed it: the 14 k gold (heavy) necklace that Elvis got from Barron Hilton in 1973, is now for sale. Elvis wore the necklace both on and off stage, even on the day he devorced Priscilla. The item comes with a COA by Joe Esposito. Bidding starts at $80,000. (News, Source: Elvis Matters /Elvis News)

How much for that Elvis cape?: Elvis Matters in the EC reports: "One of our members asked us how much the 'Planet Cape' sold for at the Dick Clark auction. The answer: 20.000 dollar, although there's no guarantee that this cape is the real thing. B&K Enterprises makes these capes by the dozen. Other items on the same auction block proved to be fake, such as 2 TCB and 1 TLC necklaces, although they sold for up to 1.000 dollars each". (News, Source: Elvis Matters/Elvis News)

Elvis song #2 in list of best Christmas songs: Variety has named "Blue Christmas" one of the top Christmas songs in the world. The song was ranked #2 in the Top 10, with Variety commenting on the "obvious melancholy in Elvis's voice, without the traditional sugar sweet sentimantality". The #1 spot went to The Pretenders with "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas", #3 was U2 and "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)". (News, Source: Amber Smith)


Another Elvis landmark torn down: America is less another Elvis landmark. Workers have demolished the New Haven Coliseum in Connecticut. Elvis performed 3 times at the Coliseum: July 16 and 17, 1975, and July 30th, 1976 for a total of 33.000 fans. The Coliseum was built in 1970 as a Sports center, initially named "Veterans Memorial Coliseum". 36 years later, the Coliseum is no more, although many tried to prevent this 'historic place' from being torn down. There is no Elvis plaque to remember the concerts. (News, Source: Source: Elvis Matters /Elvis News)

Memories of Bill Black on The Elvis Hour: On this week's edition of The Elvis Hour they will talk with Frankie Avalon a teen idol of the late 50's who has fond memories of The King. The program also recalls Elvis' first television appearance and talk with Johnny Cash about a rare sun recording session with the million dollar quartet. There is also a salute Bill Black the bass player who formed that first trio with Elvis and Scotty Moore. Only at www.elvisthemagazine.com (News, Source: Darwin Lamm)

 

Sunday 17 December 2006

Elvis Presley - Paternity Suit Book & DVD: The latest release from Praytome Publishing is a composite book & DVD release. From the press release:

20 years of research and hard detective work and additional 18 months of pure production time have gone by. Different than our other productions which were most of the time advertised long before their release dates we kept the work about this extreme and highly controversial topic behind the curtain and over the years every little detail of this work has been handled as top secret.

A 100-pages full-colour, hard cover book with the use of the outstanding, high quality paper stock being established as best choice paper for books by our releases of the "Elvis - Behind The Image" & "Elvis - Born To Rock".

The outstanding and thrilling script of Bud Glass (author of "Elvis - Behind The Image") for the first time breaks down iron walls of silence and leads you behind the scenes of one of the biggest sex scandals in history of music.

The documentary is like an exciting thriller  ( Movie ) and will put the viewer back and forth emotionally.The time of speculations about these events, taking place during the heighth of Elvis Presley's concert years, is over.

Did Elvis have an illigitimate child or was he the victim of a well calculated extortion attempt ?

The book goes along this line and has original court documents and photos that allow your own research for the mystery behind the most controversial sex scandal in the history of music.

Published by "Praytome Publishing" this 100 pages, full colored, hardback book co-operates perfectly with the included full length 95 minutes DVD documentary and German subtitles for the documentary. Now available direct from Praytome Publishing (Conspiracy, Source: Bud Glass)


Elvis' family tree: Most Elvis Presley fans people know where he was born - Tupelo. They know where he went - worldwide. But beyond Lisa Marie, Priscilla, Vernon and Gladys Presley, most folks don't know Elvis' people. A pair of Lee County fans and researchers aim to change that. Julian Riley of Verona and Rachel Anne Harden of Saltillo have been hiking through cemeteries, rummaging through photo albums and talking with Elvis' kin to flesh out the King of Rock 'n' Roll's family tree.

"I think you can safely say that Rachel and I know more about Elvis Presley's tree than anyone else in the world," Riley said. "You'd have to live here to do it," Harden added. "You couldn't live in Germany or Denmark."

A longtime history buff, Riley owns the original Verona Town Hall, where Gladys Smith married Vernon Presley on June 17, 1933. He talked about the wedding on TV, and Harden, an Elvis fan, wanted to make sure he had his facts right. Once Riley convinced her of his case, the pair got to talking about a project they could undertake together.

"We decided to trace his family all the way back to the Revolutionary War period," Riley said. "We're doing both sides of the family," Harden said.

They've applied bleach to tombstones throughout Lee and Itawamba counties, and they've even repaired a few broken tombstones. They've sat in people's homes, and talked about connections and birthdays. "A lot of the people knew they were related to Elvis," Harden said, "but they didn't know how. We told them how."

Carthey Presley Derrick was the granddaughter of Elvis's great-great-aunt, Rosalinda Presley. Riley and Harden met Derrick about a month before she died. "She let us go through all of her old pictures, and she called all her relatives," Riley said. "She let us in, so to speak. She was such a big help to us."

Derrick and her relatives will be included in a book and Web site that Riley and Harden hope to finish by August in time for the 30th anniversary of Elvis' death.

"Until then, we want to get as many stories as we can," Riley said, adding that he and Harden may be contacted at et1935@comcast.net. "We'd like any help we can get." (News, Source: djournal)


"The Elvis Conspiracy?' - Out of print for years - now available: Dick Grob's huge hardcover is finally available again to the public. The book explores the man, tells the story of his last days and gives the reader the first real insight into a world of which very few were privy. What was it like to be a part of this world behind the famous music gates in Memphis, Tennessee? What exactly happened? How do you go about planning and executing the largest funeral since President Kennedy's assassination?

The book details the events and decisions made August 16, 1977, and the days that followed. More importantly, The Elvis Conspiracy? details the players in this tragedy, the actual events which took place, narrated by someone who was there.

Thanks to the author's police background and professionalism, he was able to investigate the burning question proposed by Elvis' father and the world...."Did Elvis Have to Die?" (Conspiracy, Source: Jamie Brown)


Aloha Veronica: Elvis's music is here to stay, that's about obvious. The Dutch TV station 'Veronica' is putting the full spotlight on Elvis on December 26th. Scheduled are: "Aloha From Hawaii" (6.55 pm),  "This is Elvis" (8.05 pm),  "Elvis by the Presleys" (10.05 pm) and "Elvis Lives!" (1.10 am). (News, Source: EP Gold)

 

Saturday 16 December 2006 .
E.P. in Concert (Book Review): EIN was fortunate to recently obtain a copy of this legendary book by Paul Lichter. Does it live up to its hype as one of the best, if not the best, book about Elvis' concert years from 1969 to 1977? Read EIN's detailed review to find out the answer. (Book Review, Source: EIN)

"Elvis Hits 1956" CD: Here is a new '56 CD entitled "Hits 1956" featuring recordings and several outtakes from 1956.

Tracklisting: 01. Heartbreak Hotel, 02. Blue Suede Shoes, 03. I Want You, I Need You, I Love You, 04. Hound Dog, 05. Don't Be Cruel, 06. Blue Moon, 07. Love Me Tender, 08. Any Way You Want Me, 09. I Don't Care If The Sun Don't Shine, 10. I Got A Woman (Alternate Take), 11. Money Honey, 12. I'm Counting On You (Alternate Take 13), 13. My Baby Left Me
14. On Sided Love Affair (Alternate Take 8), 15. So Glad You're Mine, 16. I'm Gonna Sit Right Down And Cry (Over You), 17. Tutti Frutti, 19. Lawdy Miss Clawdy (Alternate Take 9), 20. Shake Rattle And Roll (Alternate Take 2), 21. Playing For Keeps, 22. How's The World Treating You, 23. Long Tall Sally, 24. Paralysed, 25. First In Line (it appears track 18 is missing)
(News, Source: Elvis Express) 


"Elvis World #82" released: The latest edition of Bill E. Burk's long running quarterly magazine, Elvis World, is available, and as usual is packed with the latest "inside" news and articles direct from Memphis. Take a look inside 'Elvis World #82' with EIN (News, Source: EIN)

Visit Bill E. Burk's Elvis World Online (exclusive to EIN)


Download "Elvis The Movie" starring Kurt Russell: Spanish_Eyes posted this news on the FECC board. Click to dowload (Source: FECC)


Elvis song on Vatican CD: We reported some time ago that an Elvis song was being played on Vatican Radio. Well now comes the news: "Almost 30 years after his untimely death, Elvis seems to get recognition from Rome. He is one of the 13 international stars whose music has been translated to Latin. One song made it to the new Vatican CD «Album Omnium temporum latine cantatum optimum». According to Radio Vatican, the cd is proof again that music is universal, and that Latin songs are no exception to that rule." (News, Source: Elvis Matters /Elvis News)


Sandi Pichon is working on her new book about Elvis: Sandi Pichon says: "After the huge success and the positive criticism on my first book (read EIN's review: Raised on Elvis! Elvis! Elvis!) I have decided to write another book. My first book dealed mainly with my personal memories how I met Elvis at the beginning of the 50s and later in the 70s visited over hundred of his sold out concerts.

My second book will be an illustrated book, dealing with the concert years of the late Elvis 1970 - 1977.

Because I attach great importance to the quality of my books, there could only be one address for where my book should be produced and released. When it comes to Elvis releases "Praytome Publishing" is the standard in all quality concerns. From the actual print, the paper to the complex picture restoration this company has set new standards during the last years. In the tradition of the book "Elvis - Born To Rock" (Bud Glass), which was ground-breaking in terms of quality, cost/performance ratio and content, I want to open another chapter in the Elvis world. I was not only able to win the "Behind The Image - Team" for this project, but was also able to get famous photographers like my good friend Keith Alverson, who contributed a lot of great photos.

The release date is the first quarter of 2007 and during Elvis week 2007 me and the complete Team will be in Memphis, and will be available for signing autographs. I'm looking forward to seeing you all in person and I hope all Elvis fans will like my new book. Sandi Pichon" (News, Source: Praytome Publishing)


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