Welcome to the "Elvis Information Network", home to the best news, reviews, interviews & articles about the King of Rock & Roll, Elvis Aaron Presley...
The latest on www.elvisinfonet.com:
Elvis' Gretsch Guitar for Live Charity Auction: On February 8th Julien's Grammy Awards Charity Auction will offer various items of music memorabilia including Elvis' Gretsch guitar used by him during the 1969 Las Vegas Season. The estimate is $100,000 and will be, as the star lot, auctioned last as Lot #80. Elvis' Gretsch were used both on stage and in the studio. Elvis was photographed extensively with this guitar on opening night at the Internaional in 1969. According to the auction catalogue, there are two models of this guitar with one still at Graceland. The Gretsch Country Gentleman Guitar was endorsed by Chet Atkins with Elvis, George Harrison and Duane Eddy among players. Accompnaied by a letter of authenticity from Jonathon Taurog, son of Norman Taurog. Norman Taurog was the director of nine Elvis Presley films and was personally given this guitar by Elvis in the 1970s. If anyone would like to buy it for EIN we would be more than happy! Go here for more details.
(News, Source;Ebay) |
 |
Priscilla rumoured for 'Dancing With The Stars': The TV rumour mill is alive with the possible news that Priscilla will be slipping into her blue suede shoes for the US TV show 'Dancing with the Stars'. The word is that Priscilla Presley has signed on, or is close to signing on, to compete in the next season of ABC’s hit dance competition show. The fact that Elvis' 'Viva Las Vegas' documentary was also on ABC makes the news more likely. Although there is no official announcement as yet, if Ms. Presley goes through with it, the 62-year-old grandmother and former wife of the late Elvis Presley will become the oldest woman to compete on the show. Jane Seymour competed last season at age 56.
The oldest man to do some waltzing is George Hamilton, who gave it a try at age 66 in season two. I’m told Hamilton’s former Dynasty costar Joan Collins was in talks for some time with Dancing producers, but a deal was never made. Collins is 74!
A rep for the show said she "can't confirm or deny casting rumors for the show." Priscilla's rep said Presley stated she is not "confirmed to do Dancing." The rep could not confirm nor deny that Presley has been in talks with producers.
(News, Source;e-online)
|
 |
The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll rules again with WagerWorks: Colonel Parker would totally approve when the much anticipated Elvis Multi-Strike online slot machine game was launched by Wagerworks last week - and is proving very popular across the Internet. Based on an original favourite, the Elvis brand is one applauded for quality and success.
The online version features the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll himself, Elvis Presley in a feature-rich slot game that Wagerworks boasts is like playing three games at once, with the chance to multiply payline wins for king-sized awards. Also featured are two bonus rounds where the sounds, sights and songs of the undisputed rock ‘n’ roll legend take players back in time to a memorable Las Vegas of the seventies.
Loaded with features, music and pictures of Elvis Presley, together with memorable video footage of some of his most legendary performances, the new game is already proving to be a big hit with all levels of players.
|
 |
One of the two unique WagerWorks game Bonus features is the Fan-O-Meter Bonus, which presents players with the chance to bet on the crowd’s rousing applause to an Elvis song of their choice. The player selects a concert displayed on one of five television screens, and during the song the crowd goes into celebratory frenzy at different points in the performance. The Fan-O-Meter at the side of the screen indicates the strength of the applause; the louder the applause, the higher the payout.
In the Photo Memories bonus feature, pressing the Spin button starts an arrow spinning on a record surrounded by a collection of Elvis photos. When the arrow stops on a photo, it adds an award to the player’s bonus total and is replaced with a Collect symbol. As the bonus game progresses, additional arrows are added up to a maximum of eight, and the values of the photos increase. However, as photos are collected, more Collect symbols are added to the record, and if an arrow points to a Collect symbol, the bonus is over. A spokesman for the late Colonel Parker said that The Colonel was turning in his grave for not having thought of this marketing idea first. (News, Source;EIN/S.Meegin) |
Faith Hill debut of 'That's All Right' online: Faith Hill's new video of her performance of Elvis’ classic 'That’s All Right' is now on-line. After originally recording both “That’s All Right” and “Peace In The Valley” for the “Viva Las Vegas” 2-hour ABC TV special honoring the late singer, CMT began airing “Peace In The Valley.” But after numerous inquiries “That’s All Right” has also been added to her website.
“We recorded “Mama” and “Peace In The Valley,” last year in a completely empty arena, in the round and stripped down, said Faith. “It was a blast. We channeled Elvis by setting the stage as if we were back in Elvis' 68 TV special. These songs and being a part of the special reminded me of who he was, what he stood for; he defined what it was and is to be an entertainer.”
The “Viva Las Vegas” special, produced in cooperation with EPE originally aired on September 18, 2007. Click here to see the video and for more info go to www.faithhill.com. (News, Source;EPE) |
|
Fires Destroy Fort Chaffee Barracks: Arson is suspected in fires fanned by winds exceeding 50 mph that spread through the old Fort Chaffee engulfing about 150 vacant barracks. Videos of the scene showed flames raging sideways rather than upward because of the wind. By late afternoon, the fire had charred about 100 acres. Sandy Sanders, the former executive director of the Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority, said the fires had missed Building 803, where Elvis Presley submitted to a buzzcut March 25, 1958. The barracks were closed a decade ago but some new businesses that had moved onto the property, now called Chaffee Crossing.
(News, Source;AP) |
 |
 |
New 3-CD 'Love Elvis tin-box set' from Sony/BMG Canada: This is the new 3-CD 'Love Elvis Can Set' featuring 30 tracks and a similar listing to the 2005 'Love Elvis' BMG CD. 'For The Good Times' is still noted as 'previously unreleased Alternate Take 3'. Go here for EIN's original review of 'Love Elvis'.
(News, Source: Barry Mclean) |
 |
TCB Band, Emmylou Harris feature on new Jim Lauderdale CD: Emmylou Harris and Patty Loveless are among the many musicians appearing on Jim Lauderdale and the Dream Players' upcoming album, Honey Songs. The country project will be released Feb. 19 on Yep Roc. Other guests include guitarist James Burton, pianist Glen D. Hardin, bassist Gary Tallent (E Street Band), pedal and lap steel player Al Perkins (Flying Burrito Brothers) and drummer Ron Tutt. Buddy Miller and Kelly Hogan also provide backing vocals.
(News, Source;JB) |
 |
Elvis still helps others set new World Records; A 55-hour "sing-a-thon" sets a new World Record. "Elvis" a.k.a. Suresh Joachim, finished his Elvis impersonation stint at Shoppers World Brampton on Saturday, and he frankly admits setting his 53rd Guinness record was one of the hardest. "My voice is gone," Joachim rasped in a phone interview yesterday. "Learning songs is hard. I had to memorize them, follow the beat – and I had to dance!"
Joachim's 55 hours of singing broke the previous world record for the longest Elvis impersonation – 43 hours and 11 minutes.
Dressed in a white suit, wig and sunglasses, Joachim stepped onstage at 8 a.m. and, taking five-minute breaks every hour – and 30-second breaks between songs – went to work. He was not allowed to remove any piece of his costume throughout the 55-hour performance.
"It was disgusting wearing the wig all the time. I was sweaty," he admitted. Joachim trained for weeks prior to the big day. "I listened to Elvis for 14 days non-stop. When I went to the car, when I walked around, I sang with him. He admitted to a touch of stage fright at the start. "I was struggling for words, but by the end, I looked like the real Elvis. Everyone was cheering and I danced so well."
The Man Who Was Elvis is understandably ecstatic about his record. "I love it. I love it," he said. "It's good for my two sons. They'll achieve different things than I have, but they'll learn from me." The professional record breaker's past accomplishments include running up and down an escalator for seven days and standing for 76 hours and 40 minutes on his left foot. (News, Source;Sanja Meegin) |
$2.5 Million - Crazy Ebay Elvis prices: While on the topic of auctions as above - spotted on Ebay an Elvis RCA 78rpm of 'Blue Moon' up for opening bid of $2.5 Million! Genuinely worth around $100 there is not even a description of its condition. If you have money to burn there are three days to go, no bids as yet! Look here for a laugh. .
(News, Source;Ebay) |
 |
Elvis fanatic found hanged on King of Rock 'n' Roll's birthday: An Elvis fanatic was found hanged on what would have been the King of Rock 'n' Roll's birthday. Devoted Paul Barkham, 40 - known as Elvis - was found dead at home. The dad-of-two did tribute acts wearing a quiff and jumpsuit like his idol. Paul, of Brighouse, West Yorks, also auditioned for The X Factor last year. Mum Catherine, 69, said: "He sounded like Elvis, looked like him, he lived and breathed the man." The King's hits were played at the funeral, where the coffin had a 3ft floral guitar tribute and flowers spelling Elvis.
(News, Source;SanjaMeegin)
|
| More classic Import CD upgrades: In cooperation with the Southern Comfort/Baxter/Bilko and 2001 import labels the Audionics label will
re-issue several old bootleg classics. The 'Cancelled - Request Box' 2CD set will be released March 2008 after which Elvis' March 22, 1975 concert, 'A Hot Winter Night', 'Goodbye Memphis 76' and 'April Fool's Day' (audience recording), the complete "Opening Night 72" and others will also follow. All releases will be remastered from the original tapes, some of which obtained from The Colonel himself. The Audionics team will take care of the audio restoration and remastering while the Baxter/Bilko/2001 team will do the design of the booklets. As previously noted on EIN, these upgrades are taken from the original tapes (this not yet another cheap copy!) using one of the best audio engineers around. Go here for full info on 'Cancelled - The Request Box'. (News, Source;Fort Baxter) |
 |
 |
Graceland to open 2 new Exhibits and expanded VIP Tour: Two new exciting exhibitions chronicling two key periods of Elvis' life - "Private
Presley" and "Elvis 68" - are scheduled to open at the Graceland visitor center in March 2008 and will feature many items from the Graceland
archives that have never been on display to the general public.
"Private Presley" covers the time 50 years ago when, at the zenith of his early superstardom, Elvis was inducted into the army. He performed his duties like any other soldier with none of the special treatment his celebrity status might have afforded him. After completing basic training and initial service in Texas, in October 1958 Elvis was sent to Germany where he served until March of 1960. It will include Elvis' fatigues, dress uniforms, army foot locker, suitcases and more. Another key item never before on display is the cedar chest Elvis kept in the Graceland attic to store both his army clothes and some of his late mother's belongings.
"Elvis 68" exhibit will include the white suit Elvis wore for the "If I Can Dream" finale; a black suit he wore during the "club scenes" of the program's big production number; a wristband he wore with the famous black leather outfit (which is part of the permanent exhibitions at Graceland); a red vest worn for promotional photos; and documents relating to the special including tickets to the tapings, photographs and a script.
New expanded VIP Tour will feature several never-before-seen artifacts. It will also feature the first-ever professional photos of
Elvis. The Presleys could not afford professional photos of the family, but in 1955 Elvis posed for his first photo shoot with William Speers in
Memphis. This portion of the VIP exhibit allows visitors to see the original proofs from that photo shoot including Elvis' personal handwritten notes indicating his favorites. Other new displays include a first hand look at a young Elvis during his days at Humes High School through a display of artifacts including his high
|
 |
| school diploma, Class of 1953 tassel and high school yearbooks. Also for the first time ever, the living room furniture from Elvis and Priscilla's honeymoon hideaway in Palm Springs will be on display as well as the working barn behind Graceland featuring items including Elvis' personal saddle, chaps and other artifacts relating to the Presley's equestrian activities, as well as information on the horses that still live at Graceland. For more info visit Elvis.com. (News, Source;EPE) |
Official UK EP Fan Club Magazine out now: Todd Slaughter's Official UK Elvis Presley Fan Club February/March edition of their magazine is out now. Featuring articles "by fans for fans" the topics include 'It Happened At The World's Fair', Elvis' 160 UK chart hits, the topical Elvis Public Domain issue, reviews and more.
(News, Source:ElvisNews) |
 |
The Dangerous World of Elvis Bootlegging; Vic Colonna reveals all! For the true fan the Elvis world goes way beyond the endless RCA ‘Greatest Hit’ compiles. The real Elvis musical excitement has always been found in the underworld of bootlegs of officially unreleased material. Of course it is the popularity of Elvis Bootlegs that paved the way for Ernst & Roger to create the ‘FTD’ Fan Club label. In the mists of time these bootlegs were of course vinyl albums with stunning classics as the ‘Behind Closed Doors’, ‘The ’68 Comeback’, ‘From The Waist Up’ etc all featuring unreleased classic Elvis recordings that eventually RCA would issue. Vic Colonna is one of the great names from this mysterious world that many fans will recall. EIN was delighted to discover that Vic Colonna is not only alive and well - but is also writing a book about the exciting world of Elvis bootlegs, and we were more than happy to ask the great man some questions. Go here for his revelations and photos. (Interviews, Source;EIN)
|
 |
New Elvis DVD 'Gently' - from STAR: Specially for Valentine's day the STAR label are releasing a brand new DVD featuring 35 Elvis ballads and love songs. STAR promises 35 remixed Elvis videos, all in Dolby Digital sound, plus a free Valentine's card!
Tracklisting: I Love You Because, “Elvis love for fans #1”, Are You Lonesome Tonight, Doin The Best I Can, As Long As I Have You,
Suppose, I Just Cant Help Believing, Gently, Because of Love, Something, Could I Fall in Love – Alternate Harmony version, I Want You I Need You I Love You – take 16, The Wonder of You, It Hurts Me, True Love, All That I Am, “Elvis love for fans #2”, Love Me – “Live, Through the Years”, There Goes My Everything – take 1, Tender Feeling, 68 Ballads, Puppet On A String, I’ll Remember You, Mary in the Morning – take 4, Until It’s Time For You To Go, Today Tomorrow and Forever – Duet with Ann Margret, Do You Know Who I Am, So Close Yet So Far, Almost in Love – remix, Young and Beautiful – remix, Please Don’t Stop Loving Me – remix, Always on My Mind – strings overdub, Pledging My Love - “Elvis love for fans #3”, Memories (alt), Bonus: Are You Lonesome Tonight (laughing), What Now My Love , by popular request from Elvis the Concert 2002. (News, Source: Star)
|
 |
Elvis' TCB Band performs in Sofia, Bulgaria: On January 30 2008, for first time Elvis' TCB band of the King of Rock & Roll will set foot in Bulgaria. The show will start at 7pm at National Palace of Culture Hall 1 in Sofia. The Band includes James Burton (right with Dennis Jale), Glen D. Hardin on piano, Jerry Scheff on bass and Ron Tutt on drums, with special participation of Dennis Jale on vocals, and The Sweet Inspirations as backing-vocals. Elvis worked with the best musicians of his time. His co-musicians were the original band TCB and the vocalists of The Sweet Inspirations, together with the Austrian singer Jale, who will also perform for the Bulgaria audience. They will present the show from Las Vegas, in its authentic form, which includes all of Presley's hits. Bulgarians will have the chance to hear his love ballades, as well as his hottest rock pieces. During the show the band will tell the audience some of the cheerful stories and events they enjoyed while living together with Elvis in the period between 1969 and 1997.Later in their career, these musicians worked with Frank Sinatra, Jerry Lee Luis, Tina Turner, Bob Dilon, The Doors, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, George Harison and many others. The concert in Sofia is organised by Palms Music and SIA. (News, Source; EIN/Sanja Meegin)
|
 |
New final Cover Art for JAT 'Portraits' Book: With a new 68 Comeback image, this has been announced as the final art cover of next JAT Productions book entitled "Portraits". Celebrating twenty years of JAT Productions this special project will be a hardback all-colour book. It is scheduled for the first quarter of 2008.
(News, Source:FECC)
|
 |
| More new UK releases: Continuing the UK re-releasing of Elvis' 1950's product the Avid label will issue a 2-CD set called "Elvis Presley - Essential Collection". It contains Elvis' 1956/1957 material and will be released Feb 11. Also released in the UK in March 2008 are the DVD documentary "Elvis: A Generous Heart" on the Snapper label, plus a 2 DVD set called "Elvis Presley - Collectors Box" on the Classic Rock label which also includes a bonus CD. (News, Source; HMV.uk) |
|
New Elvis Advert From Chile: "Elvis" promotes French-fried potato chips in a new Elvis themed commercial from Chile in South America. The voice, singing "Hound Dog" is from a Chilean impersonator called Deivis Parada. You can watch the commercial on the Chilean Elvis site. Go here to see it.
(News, Source:ElvisNews/ElvisChileFanClub) |
 |
MRS to release "duet" remix of "That's All Right": The next Memphis Recording Service (UK) venture released on 29th January 2008 is a dance remix of ‘That’s All Right’ with Elvis Presley and Lucy Clark. It is exclusively only available on I-Tunes & Music Download Stores around the world (with the exception of the USA).
The remix includes a duet with the sensational US singer Lucy Clark who was originally discovered in the 1980’s by Les Paul and has recorded with the likes of ‘Johnny Cash’ , Reggae artists ‘Sly Dunbar & Robbie Shakespeare’, ‘Keith Richards’, ‘Bon Jovi’ and many more. For more information on Lucy you can visit www.memphisrecordingservice.com for this and for details and sample of the new release.
The new remix is produced by Bob Harris and Clark Enslin (Johnny Cash, "The Great Lost Performance); Executive Producer Joseph Pirzada and is remixed by US producer Bob Harris and Mastered by Real Bouwman (MRS Release: New York RCA Studio 1).
Listen to audio sample
Also available for download, is an extended 9 minute dance version and of course, the original dry version from 1954.
During February, Lucy Clark will be doing a Radio and TV tour of Europe to promote her duet with Elvis and a music video will begin shooting in New York and in New Jersey next week.
At this time there is no set date for a physical release except for the download stores.
However, EXCLUSIVE FOR ELVIS FANS wanting to hear a special preview of the mix can do so on Elvis Express Radio www.elvis-express.com where it will have its WORLD PREMIERE on Friday 25th January.
The links for the Music Download stores will be announced on the day of release next week, so stay tuned. (News, Source: MRS)
1. THAT'S ALL RIGHT, DANCE ALL NIGHT
(RADIO CLUB VERSION)
2. THAT'S ALL RIGHT, DOING IT ALL RIGHT
(EXTENDED CLUB DANCE MIX)
3. THAT'S ALL RIGHT
(ORIGINAL VERSION)
"ELVIS The Lost Session" CD - but no Elvis!!!: This 1997 US RCA Nashville 3:58 promotional CD was distributed as an authentic Elvis item in order to trick media outlets and radio DJ's into listening to it.
In fact, it contains an announcement to promote Sarah Evans and has NO Elvis content.
Despite having no mention of Elvis, this remains a collectable Elvis rarity with a unique Elvis sleeve and custom printed disc! RDJ64880-2
The few copies still in circulation usually change hands for more than US$200.00!
"One of the rarest ever Elvis related collectibles"
|
 |
 |
SAM - aka Stephen Missen - passed away peacefully yesterday afternoon at 1.15pm.
SAM was a delight to know, a truly dedicated Elvis fan and a keen EIN supporter. There are not enough people like him, he was always full of fun & excitement, along with being such a kind, generous and understanding soul.
Our condolences to Pauline, his kids Dale, Rick, Jess and all his family.
Goodbye SAM...we're going to miss you.
|
 |
Disneyland type theme park for Graceland?: Elvis World's Bill E. Burk advises:
'EPE just paid $2.5 million to buy the Royal Oaks apartments on Craft Road, just west of EP Blvd. in Memphis (sitting atop the hill behind the shops).
Though EPE has been extremely tight-lipped about the word "Disney," (see EW86) . . . in announcing the news, the TV dude said "Graceland is planning to build a Disney-like theme park in the area."
In Elvis World #86, we pointed out that most (if not all) the major Elvis things are being re-located on the east (mansion) side of EP Blvd., which would leave all those scores of acres on the west side completely open for something like a Disney development. EW86 informed you there have been "talks" between EPE and Disney.
OUR QUESTION TO YOU IS (and get your answers back to us via e-mail soon as you can and be as verbose as you wish):
How do YOU feel about a Disney-like park being built in the Graceland area? Do you think it will bring in new Elvis fans? Add to the Graceland experience? Or subtract from it? Given all those acres on the west side of EP ... what would YOU like to see placed over there?
Did Elvis and Bob Dylan record together?: While EIN doesn't believe one word of it, the story of a recording session between two of music's greats is periodically discussed in print and on online messageboards.
From All Across The Telegraph by Michael Gray & John Bauldie: This information emerged from Presley-fanatic sources. Here is the songlist from the Presley-Dylan session of May 1971 in Nashville. Elvis was booked in to do Christmas songs; for atmosphere's sake, they had santas and angels, Christmas trees and holly and - not duetting on all titles, we believe (no tape has yet surfaced) - they sang:
All I Really Want To Do
Blowin' In The Wind
Carolyne
House Of The Rising Sun
It Aint Me Babe
Jodie And The Kid
Like A Rolling Stone
Me And Bobbie McGee
Mr Tambourine Man |
My Garden Prayer
The Ghetto
One Too Many Mornings
She Belongs To Me
Say You Love Me One More Time
Silent Night
Subterranean Homesick Blues
Walking Down The Line
Satisfied |
Reportedly they got together again, some time in 1972, at which session they managed only 'If Not For You'. " Now possibly this was an elaborate lie but we know there have been various unheard shambolic jam sessions with other celebs so this could be one of those and those songs were merely drunken fragments not worth hearing (in
the Graceland estates opinion!) Who knows. It'd be nice to think it were true. And The King sings that fragment of I Shall Be Released so tenderly ending with the word "Dylan" said with obvious reverance. Read Google messageboard postings (News, Source: Amber Smith)
First Look drops plans to release "Elvis The Movie" DVD: Elvis Australia advises that First Look Studios is no longer negotiating for the distribution rights of Elvis The Movie starring Kurt Russell, and therefore will not be releasing this title.
Despite this development, as of our publishing the news, the First Look Media website still lists the DVD as one of the company's assets.
The film was originally listed for official DVD release in the US in mid 2007. Unofficial DVDR copies of the film regularly sell on eBay. (News, Source: Elvis Australia/EIN/First Look) |
 |
Fallout from Parkes Elvis Festival: For the fans the recent Parkes Elvis Festival in Australia was a great success with more than 8,000 people attending the event.
However, it was a different story behind the scenes with questions now being raised about the business acumen and strategic awareness of the Parkes Elvis Festival. Did the Committee miss a golden opportunity to put the Festival on the world stage? EIN will have more on this issue shortly.
Jerry Schilling and Joe Guercio sign on to the Elvis Cruise: The Elvis Cruise, LLC (the “Cruise”), the only Elvis Presley Enterprises (EPE) licensed cruise dedicated to the life, times and music of Elvis Presley, has announced that it has signed agreements with Jerry Schilling to act as the Host and Producer of The Elvis Cruise and with Joe Guercio to serve as the Cruises’ Musical Director.
Schilling and Guercio bring decades of professional and personal experience with Elvis Presley to the Cruise’s unique program. In his role as the Cruise’s Host, Schilling, a friend of Elvis for years, is dedicated to making this Elvis experience as authentic and as rich as possible. Guercio, who also was an Elvis close friend and collaborator, will be providing cruisers with the very best in musical production.
“Both Schilling and Guercio were primarily responsible for the various production elements required to make the Cruise a true celebration of Elvis’ music and a tribute to his legacy,” says Michael McKay, Executive Producer of the Cruise. |
 |
After meeting Elvis at a local pick up football game in 1954 at the age of 12, Schilling and Elvis became good friends. In 1964 he went to work for Elvis as the youngest member of The Memphis Mafia. Since then, Jerry has spent the last 45 years in the entertainment industry managing such acts as The Beach Boys, Jerry Lee Lewis and Lisa Presley. Some of his TV and film projects include the A&E Biography's on Brian Wilson and Sam Phillips, and co-producing the ABC prime-time television series "ELVIS, the Early Years." Most recently he has released his memoir "Me and A Guy Named Elvis" My Lifelong Friendship with Elvis Presley. Schilling is still involved in developing projects dedicated to experiencing the life and music of Elvis, such as The Elvis Cruise.
“Many people have tried to recreate Elvis, but lost the richness of his soul. So it is exciting to be a part of an experience that has brought that richness and has sought solely to create an entertaining and authentic Elvis experience,” said Schilling. He adds, “I believe Elvis would be proud of what we are doing.”
Best known and admired for his work with Elvis Presley, Guercio has had a prolific career. He was musical director and conductor for Elvis' concert shows from the summer of 1970 to the summer of 1977, when Elvis made his last concert appearance. His other works include: being musical director for the International Hotel in Las Vegas, Diana Ross, Jim Nabors, Florence Henderson, Diahann Carroll, Gladys Knight, Ann-Margret and Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme; being medley arranger for Barbra Streisand’s 1972 hit Sweet Inspiration/Where You Lead; and accompanying blues legend B.B. King to Rome to meet Pope John Paul II and perform in the Vatican's fifth Christmas concert. Guercio's work with Natalie Cole to reunite her on stage in duet with her late father, Nat King Cole, pre-dated her famous early 1990's duet recordings and videos with Mr. Cole.
In addition to being the Musical Director of The Elvis Cruise, Guercio has recently produced The Tanya Tucker Christmas Show.
“Jerry Schilling and Joe Guercio have a genuine personal connection and a history with Elvis Presley. They have put their hearts, souls and wealth of experience into making this program entertaining, authentic and special,” said McKay. “This cruise is the ultimate experience for anyone who admires the work of Elvis, and wishes to mingle and be entertained by the best performers in the music industry.”
The Elvis Cruise, which will embark August 28, 2009, from New Orleans, includes four nights and two afternoons of live onboard entertainment, with each night dedicated to one of the truly spectacular phases of Elvis’ life and career, one afternoon in the Cozumel port of call and many opportunities to interact closely with Elvis’ original cast musical artists.
For more details about the cruise, please visit www.theelviscruise.com, or call 1-800-704-3034. (News, Source: Charmaine Voisine/Business Wire/EPE)
EIN Teasers: "Coming up on EIN tomorrow, an interview with one of the most famous Elvis Bootleggers of all time"............also in the next few days news on the latest Elvis "rock" remix from one of the most recognisable names in the Elvis world!
Elvis liked comedian Andy Kaufman's impression of him: In the biography, Andy Kaufman Revealed!, by Bob Zmuda, the author reveals:
'Elvis Presley was an acquaintence of Mike's [Mike Douglas], and once told him that of all the Elvis impressionists, the King thought Andy was by far the best. When Mike pased that on, Andy was shocked and touched. That he had come full circle from that encounter just outside the cupboard in the Las Vegas Hilton gave him a lot to ponder.'
The earlier episode refers to a young and not yet famous Andy hiding in a cupboard at the Hilton and surprising Elvis by jumping out and handing him a 200 page handwritten book manuscript (the Book of Elvis) he had written about the King. Also from Andy Kaufman Revealed!:
'His manuscript held out in supplication, Andy summoned the guts to speak to his bespangled deity. "Elvis, I'm your biggest fan. I wrote this book about you."
Elvis nodded approvingly. "That's good, that's very good."
(News, Source: Andy Kaufman Revealed!, Bob Zmuda, Little Brown & Company, 1999)
Elvis Cadillac comes to Russia: With Russia's motor industry expanding rapidly today, a group of enthusiasts outside St Petersburg are devoting their lives to restoring car classics. Some of the cars belonged to real-life legends, among them the first man in space Yury Gagarin, Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev and the king of rock 'n' roll, Elvis Presley. To get the vehicles running is the main aim and they have to pass modern technical checks. With several car manufacturers in St Petersburg thrusting the city to the forefront of modern automobile production, the warehouse is ensuring that along with modern cars, the old classics are still roadworthy. Only after they’re completely restored, the cars will be shown to the public. View video (News, Source: Elvis Matters)
| Wednesday 23 January 2008 |
FTD releases announced: The next FTD release for April will be a 2 Cd version of the classic album That’s The Way It Is. This release will of course be in the 7” digipack series including booklet. The tracklisting is not finalized yet.
Additionally will FTD re-release the Cd originally included in the The Way It Was book. This will be a regular 5” Cd including the same material as originally released.
This does not constitute a policy of releasing all book Cd’s as separate re-releases. FTD will in each case evaluate the demand and historic relevance for such releases. (News, Source: Elvis Unlimited)
"Wild In The Country" released...with mistake: Ernst Jørgensen and Roger Semon sent out a newsletter. In this newsletter they mention that it has come to their attention that due to an incorrect quark file being used by their manufacturer, the name "Presley" (Presely) is spelt wrong on the spine of their latest release “Wild In The Country”. As the item has already shipped, they will supply quantities of the corrected sleeve as and when requested. All new orders taken for "Wild In The Country" will feature the corrected sleeve.
The label will release a 2 CD version of "That's The Way It Is" in April in the Classic album series (7” digipack with booklet). Track listing is not finalized yet.
Additionally the label will re-release the CD originally included in the "The Way It Was" book as a regular 5” CD. This does not constitute a policy of releasing all book CD’s as separate re-releases though, the label will in each case evaluate the demand and historic relevance for such releases. (News, Source: Elvis News/Elvis Matters/FTD) |
 |
Lisa Marie recording update: Lisa Marie apparently visited with the rock band, Glasvegas last month in Edinburgh. Lisa and Priscilla had flown over for the Led Zepplin concert and then met the Scottish band in a pub. It seems Lisa had loved their single, Daddy's Gone which singer James Allan wrote about his parents' break up.
Lisa called the group to tell them the song lyrics really touched her. And that she and her mom listened to the song, Daddy's Gone 8 times in a row. James said: "We met Lisa Marie in an Edinburgh pub. She'd never been to Scotland before. Nobody recognized her, even though she looks like Elvis."
"She'd met Alan McGee in LA and told him how much she loved us. She's got a recording studio at home and she's invited us to record a few tracks with her the next time we tour America."
Glasvegas is made up of James, guitarist Rab Allan, bass player Paul Donoghue and drummer Caroline Mackay. Their new single is, It's My Own Cheating Heart That Makes Me Cry will be released on Valentine's Day. (Lisa Presley's World, Source: www.elvisunlimited.com/www.epgold.com)
Final volume in Complete Lyrics series being released: The 10th and last volume in the Words – The Complete Lyrics series will be released on February 4, 2008.
This volume will contain the lyrics and stories behind each title between WHA and Y.
The 10 volumes in the Words series feature more than 800 songs. All recorded or sung by Elvis Presley.
You can pre-order Words 10 – The Complete Lyrics from Elvis Unlimited for US$18.00.
|
 |
Elvis track featured on magazine CD: The next issue of the British rock magazine Uncut comes with a bonus CD featuring "Blue Moon" by Elvis.
The CD offers a range of songs that have influenced Bob Dylan, and clearly this is one of them.
It's no secret that Dylan admired Elvis. Proof of which is the tribute song "The Gypsy" which he wrote and recorded after having seen Elvis live on stage in Las Vegas. (News, Source: Elvis Unlimited) |
 |
"You'll Never Walk Alone" CD release: There are only a few more days before the new "REELTRAX“–label will come up with a brandnew "77 minutes of listening pleasure“ cd titled "You´ll Never Walk Alone“. About five years ago the legendary "2001“ label released it´s series "How Great Thou Art Sessions Vol. 1 – 3“ and the content was absolutely fascinating – especially for those who just love to hear how Elvis was working in the studio on "his“ gospel music. Still the three cds suffered quite a bit from rather bad sound. REELTRAX is now able to present a great variety of HGTA-Outtakes on it's "You´ll Never Walk Alone“- release in absolutely breathtaking sound – MUCH better than you have heard it before.
And if this would not be enough reason to get the cd while you can: Did you ever hear a complete and uncut 12:32 minutes of the first six takes of the title "You´ll Never Walk Alone“? If not, it is now the chance for it! Needless to say that the sound quality on this real treasure is just perfect! The same goes for the unreleased Take 1 of "We Call On Him“. "You´ll Never Walk Alone“ contains a 16 page-booklet with all necessary information regarding Elvis´ love for gospel music. Have a look at the enclosed pictures to get an overview how it looks like. We hope you like our first release on REELTRAX!
|
 |
Tracklist: 01 – You’ll Never Walk Alone [Takes 1,2,3,4,5,6] – 12:32 02 – We Call On Him [Takes 1,2,3] – 05:47 03 – Run On [Takes 1,2,3,4,5,6] – 10:08 04 – Stand By Me [Takes 8,9,10] – 05:39 05 – Where No one Stands Alone [Takes 1,2] – 05:53 06 – Where No One Stands Alone – workpart [Takes 1,2,3] – 03:42 07 – So High [Takes 2,3] – 02:21 08 – Farther Along ] Takes 1,2] – 04:05 09 – By And By [Takes 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9] – 10:30 10 – Somebody Bigger Than You And I [Takes 3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10] – 07:51 11 – If The Lord Wasn’t Walking By My Side [Takes 3,4,5] – 04:04 12 – Statement Ray Walker – 01:05 13 – Statement Joe Moscheo – 01:08 14 – You’ll Never Walk Alone (live July 19, 1975) – 02:21 (News, Source: Elvis Unlimited)
Aussie ETA, Dean Vegas, again running for Mayor of Gold Coast - visit the official website
Gospel re-issues: SONY/BMG USA will re-issue Elvis' three gospel albums "His Hand In Mine", "How Great Thou Art" and " He Touched Me" on March 11, 2008. (News, Source: Elvis World Japan/ Elvis News)
"Tiger Man - An Alternate Anthology Vol. 10" track listing: This is the track listing of volume 10 in the Shake Records import series "Tiger Man - An Alternate Anthology" which contains alternate and live versions of Elvis´songs.
Track listing: Young And Beautiful (Alternate Take) - Summer Kisses, Winter Tears (Take 25) - Something Blue (Take 6) - Just Tell Her Jim Said Hallo (Take 3) - Wisdom OF The Ages (Take 9) - Am I Ready (Take 2) - Stop, Look And Listen (Take 4 + 5) - Fools Fall In Love (Uedited Master) - Come What May (Take 1) - Stay Away (Uedited, undubbed Master) - U. S. Male ("Fucked Up"-Version, Take 2) - Tiger Man (Original master From The "Elvis Sings Flaming Star" Album) - Only Believe (Undubbed Master) - Where Did They Go Lord (Undubbed Master) - The Impossible Dream (Live Version) - I´ll Remember You (Informal Recording) - You Gave Me A Mountain (Informal Recording) - Polk Salad Annie (Informal Recording) - I Can´t Stop Loving You (Informal Recording) - Blue Spanish Eyes (Undubbed Master) - She Wears My Ring (Undubbed Master) - Green, Green Grass Of Home (Undubbed Master) - I Can Help (Undubbed Master) - Mystery Train / Tiger Man (Live Version) - Danny Boy (Unedited Take 7) - That´s All Right (Live Verion) - Way Down (Part Of Take 1 + Take 2) - You Gave Me A Mountain (Live Version) - A Little Less Conversation (From The Motion Picture Soundtrack "Ocean´s Eleven") (News, Source: Elvis Club Berlin /Elvis News)
|
 |
"King Creole/G.I. Blues" 2DVD release: Paramount USA will release a double DVD set featuring these two films on 5 February. (News, Source: Elvis World Japan)
Blue Hawaii/Paradise Hawaiian Style 2DVD release: Paramount USA will release a double DVD set featuring these two films on 5 February. (News, Source: Elvis World Japan)
'The Request Box (Cancelled)' - new Import release: A new reissue of the 'Request Box Shows' released 18 years ago by the Bilko label have been announced. '(Cancelled) The Request Box' will be a double CD featuring the rare recording of Elvis' August 19th & 20th 1975 performances in Las Vegas, where although in poor health Elvis introduced the positive idea of a Request Box for audience song choices. The season was cancelled after only 5 performances. Although only available from audience recordings this upgrade is taken from the original tapes (this not yet another cheap copy!) using one of the best audio engineers around. The 2 CDs also feature more than has been previously released. The August 19th Dinner show is complete with over half of the Midnight show also included. The 20th Dinner show is also complete with a bonus segment from the Midnight performance. Both CDs run the full 80 minutes. From the sensational combination of the two labels Southern Comfort and Audionics, the release date is set for the end of February.
Go here for the full and fascinating story.. (News, Source: The Flying Dutchman) |
 |
Rescued Horses Go To Graceland: Max will never be able to thank Carol-Terese Naser for saving his life.He will never be able to thank Priscilla Presley for adopting him and giving him a new home. Then again, Max is a 3-year-old bay horse.
Max and his brother, Merlin, a magnificent chocolate-colored creature, were scheduled to be slaughtered - along with four other horses in their family in QuŽbec - last summer. Naser, who has had horses of her own since she was a child, stepped into action and bought all six horses just days before they were to be taken to the slaughterhouse. "If we hadn't done this when we did, they'd all be long gone," said Naser, of Palermo. "They would've been (killed) in QuŽbec."
Naser and her friend Cathy Cleaveland found out soon enough that it wasn't easy -- or cheap -- to care for six horses. So they decided to start fundraising. Nothing, however, prepared Naser or Cleaveland for the phone call that would change Max's and Merlin's lives. "I answered the phone and Priscilla Presley was on the other end," Cleaveland recalled with a laugh. "I didn't believe it at first." Yes, that Priscilla Presley - former wife of The King, Elvis Presley. An animal lover, Presley told the women she wanted to adopt Max and Merlin to give them a permanent home at Graceland, the nearly 14-acre spread, 23-room mansion in Memphis that Elvis shared with Priscilla and their daughter until the couple's divorce in the early 1970s. |
 |
"I have always had a bond with horses," Presley said in a telephone interview Wednesday. "Elvis gave me my very first horse. It was the horses that made Graceland home to us." Presley, who called herself "the kid who had to rescue all the animals" growing up, said that when she received the T-shirt from Naser and Cleaveland, the story of the near-slaughter struck her. "It haunted me," Presley said. "I couldn't sleep because I couldn't imagine anyone wanting to do that."
Max arrived at the estate Jan. 10 -- two days after what would have been Elvis' 73rd birthday, Naser said. Merlin will follow in the spring. Presley, who called Naser's saving act "an unbelievable labor of love," said it is her desire to educate people about horse slaughter, including spreading the word about a national call-in day Tuesday to permanently ban the practice. "I know the bill (to ban the practice) is stalled right now and I have no idea why," Presley said. "I would urge everyone to call their senators and U.S. representatives about this."
(News, Source; Google) |
Elvis 'Rock & Roll Legend' - a new Hallmark CD: News of another combined BMG/Hallmark US release, this time featuring 16 "chart topping Hits" from The king Of Rock and Roll. It is the usual selection of Elvis hits but does include 'Viva Las Vegas' and the new millennium chart smash "A Little Less Conversation" is also featured. Interestingly so is 'My Baby Left Me' when surely the only chart topping this track has done in the past 50 years is via rival company M.R.S. on the UK download chart!
(News, Source; Ron Lacourse) |
 |
Martin Guitars introduces the Elvis Presley Commemorative Guitars: While best known for his singing, Elvis' guitar playing served him well, especially in the early years of his career. His pulsing, rhythmic strumming was featured on many of his early recordings and on stage in the mid-1950s, when Martin was his guitar. He began with a used 000-18 in 1954, but within months had traded it in for a 1942 Martin D-18. The next year he got a 1955 D-28; fitted with a custom-tooled leather cover with his name across, it became perhaps his most recognised acoustic due to the many Elvis concert photos in which it appears. A Martin also was Elvis' main acoustic at the end of his career. He played a mid-1970s D-28 during his last concert tour and it was the last guitar he played on stage in June of 1977.
Limited to just 175 guitars to mark C.F. Martin's 175th anniversary, the D-28M Elvis Presley Commemorative Limited Edition features rare Madagascar rosewood back and sides, an Adirondack spruce top and Adirondack spruce braces for brilliant, powerful tone. The tooled leather guitar cover made Elvis' original D-28 instantly recognisable. Therefore the D-28M Elvis Presley Commemorative Limited Edition is outfitted with a tooled leather guitar cover modelled after the original and is delivered in a special oversized vintage Geib style hardshell case to accommodate the guitar and cover.
The Elvis motif of these dreadnoughts begins on the polished black ebony headstock, where the silhouette of the King and his Martin - modelled after a famous 1956 photograph - are inlaid in mother of pearl and black pearl. Small pearl-bordered abalone star position markers inlays at the 5th, 7th (two), 9th, 15th, and 17th frets on the fingerboard flank Elvis' signature at the 12th fret. The heelcap features his "TCB Lightning Bolt" logo inlaid in mother of pearl - a design that originated with the "Taking Care of Business" pendants Elvis gave to friends.
The Martin D-28M and D-28 Elvis Presley Commemorative Limited Edition guitars can be pre-ordered immediately and participating dealers will be listed on the Martin Guitar website.
(News, Source; Google)
|
|
Elvis’ Gold Records - Vol 2 - FTD CD Review: From its sensational LP cover to its string of chart-topping singles '50,000,000 Elvis Fans Can't Be Wrong' is an outright Elvis - and pop music - classic. First released for Christmas 1959, the ten original LP tracks all positively burst out with 1950’s exuberance. However with only ten tracks taken from just five singles it reached a disappointing #31 in the US charts. It could almost be seen as The Colonel's first marketing error! However this deluxe FTD also includes 3 bonus Master tracks, masses of outtakes, and with some stunning audio upgrades it provides hours of ROCKIN' entertainment. Having bought this album several times previously, EIN's Piers Beagley digs deep to find out what new delights are in store. (FTD Reviews; Source: EIN Jan 2008) |
 |
More on Earl Brown, writer of 'If I Can Dream': As reported yesterday Walter Earl Brown, known to his friends as Earl, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Sherman Oaks, California on Thursday Jan. 10, 2008 after a lengthy illness. Earl had celebrated his 79th birthday on Dec. 25, 2007 with friends. He will be sadly missed by his many friends and relatives across the country.
W Earl Brown also composed the songs 'Up Above My Head' and 'I Found That Light' which were also included in Elvis' 1968 Comeback Special.
Author Ken Sharp told EIN: "Earl Brown was not only a great songwriter but one of the nicest and kindest people I've ever met. I spent time with him at his home in Sherman Oaks, (the same home where he wrote "If I Can Dream") and had a great time. I knew he was not well but definitely did not expect this. Please say a prayer for him".
When Ken Sharp interviewed Earl Brown for the book 'Writing For The King' his story about composing 'If I Can Dream' revealed the generous soul of a wonderful man.
Earl Brown: "They wanted to close the show with a song of peace and hope and brotherhood - a message song. I talked to them about songs like "You'll Never Walk Alone." But Colonel Parker wanted to own the publishing on the song.. . . But I thought that if I'm gonna write a song, I'm gonna write it myself. I remember thinking that they probably wouldn't use it anyway. "A Change Is Gonna Come" by Sam Cooke was the kind of song I wanted to write. And I thought that if Elvis doesn't record it, I'll give it to Aretha Franklin. So one night my my place in Sherman Oaks, California, I wrote the song in my living room looking out the window at the garden with the sun coming in and thinking how much I mean it, how much I felt. This was not a hack job. I really believed in the song so much. "If I Can Dream" came quickly, words and music. I didn't even sit at the piano, it just came to me. First of all, lyrically, (recite lyrics) "While I can think, while I can talk, while I can stand, while I can walk, while I can dream, please let my dream come true, let it come true right now." It just enfolded. I didn't think about form. It was a very inspired and pure song. |
|
I took it in the next morning and Billy Goldenberg played the piano while I sang it for Bob Finkel, the producer and Steve Binder, the director. They loved it. From the other room I heard Colonel Parker say, "That ain't Elvis' kind of song." From behind me I heard, "I'd like to try it, man." I didn't know that Elvis was standing in the doorway and had heard it. The next thing I know I find myself at Western Recorders and Elvis is recording it and the three Blossoms, Darlene Love and the other girls have tears running down their faces. Darlene Love said to me, "He reallv loves the song. He really believes in the song and means every word of it."
The Colonel was very much against the song. He was used to the Blue Hawaii kind of songs that Elvis was singing in the movies. The Colonel was a very cold man and he never spoke to me ever again. He barely spoke to me before that because I was the enemy.
I still have my original handwritten lyrics for "If I Can Dream." Up in the left corner Elvis wrote, "My boy, my boy. This could be the one!" because he hadn't had a hit in nine years and it was. (see above)
Later when Elvis was playing in Las Vegas at the International Hotel I went into his dressing room. The police were trying to keep all the fans out. I popped in to say hello and tell him how I grateful I was for him recording "If I Can Dream." He was great and hugged me. I deemed it a real honor."
(Go to 'Writing For The King' for more information) - (News, Source; EIN/Ken Sharp) |
Deep Purple's Ian Gillan talks about Elvis: He was the greatest singer that ever lived. I lost interest in Elvis Presley after he made the Blue Hawaii film [in 1961] and went to Las Vegas, but in his prime nobody could touch him. Michael Parkinson once asked the famous New Zealand soprano Kiri Te Kanawa about the greatest voice she’d ever heard, probably expecting her to name [Luciano] Pavarotti or Maria Callas, but she said: ‘The young Elvis Presley, without any doubt.’
Elvis’ voice was unique. Like so many others he had natural, technical ability, but there was something in the humanity of his voice, and his delivery. He was very influenced by Southern blues, and he helped to prove that you could have this bizarre mixture of country’n’western, blues and folk music. Recordings were very honest in those days, and they stand up remarkably well.
|
 |
 |
I was an avid collector of Elvis’ early stuff; for a young singer he was an absolute inspiration. I soaked up what he did like blotting paper. It’s the same as being in school - you learn by copying the maestro.
His personality was also extremely endearing. The shaking of his hips was deemed sensational back then, but unlike Little Richard or Chuck Berry his interviews were very self-effacing. He came over as gentle and was generous in his praise of others.
It was immaterial to me that Elvis didn’t write his own songs. Those were very different days, and he selected whatever suited him best from material supplied by publishing houses and teams of writers – all of whom were extremely conscious of his style of delivery.
Although he appeared in some awful movies, Elvis could also be pretty damn good as an actor. Love Me Tender [1956] and Jailhouse Rock [1957] were both really good but King Creole [1958] was my all-time favourite.
Gradually, though, his youthful vigour and uninhibited style began to ebb away. For me, he sang the last time in the movie GI Blues [1960].
Along with the rest of Deep Purple I once had the chance to meet Elvis. The rest of the guys went along, but I couldn’t stand seeing my hero after he’d changed so much. Those early records are still incredible, though. They can re-mix them and make them hits for the younger generation, and Elvis will always be the King. The reason is simple: He was the greatest singer that ever lived. Ian Gillan (above) is lead singer with Deep Purple. (News, Source: classicrockmagazine.com) |
The City Of Memphis Reclaims The Zippin Pippin: The Zippin Pippin is famous for two reasons, it is the oldest wooden rollercoaster in America and it also happened to be Elvis Presley’s favourite fairground ride. Located at the Mid-South Fairgrounds in Memphis, it has not been used since the park closed in 2005, but earlier this week, the Memphis Heritage met to its future and possible relocation. The Save Libertyland! group that may or may not own the Zippin Pippin has reached an agreement with one of the companies that wants to develop attractions in and around The Pyramid. Steve Mulroy of Save Libertyland! Inc. announced Monday afternoon the group has agreed to let the Ericson Group move and renovate the Zippin Pippin roller coaster as part of Greg Ericson’s $250 million plan for The Pyramid, Mud Island and the surrounding riverfront. The Ericson Group proposal had been known as Pyramid Adventure but recently underwent a name change to Pyramid Harbor. The wooden, 85-year-old roller coaster would be in an amusement park to be built on Mud Island. The island park would be renamed Harbor Island as part of the larger project.
Ericson said he hopes to reach an agreement with the city to move the nearby Grand Carousel at the former Libertyland theme park to Mud Island as well. (News, Source: Various) |
Mark Bego, co-author of Fike: An Uncommon Journey talks to EIN: The name Mark Bego may not be an instantly recognisable name in the Elvis world but it soon will be. With more than 10 million books in print across 50 titles, Mark Bego is an authority on many major music and acting stars, designs jewellry, and has his own coffee line!
The co-author of Lamar Fike's upcoming memoir recently sat down to discuss Fike: An Uncommon Journey and the cream of the entertainment world.
In a fascinating interview Mark discusses what we can expect in Lamar's memoir, opens up about his own amazing life in Hollywood, and provides his informed views on celebrities ranging from Rock Hudson, Three Dog Night and Bette Midler to Patsy Cline, The Monkees, Aretha Franklin and Leonardo DiCaprio. Be it the incredible talent of Madonna and Cher or the sad self destruction of Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston, you will be captured by Mark's insights about the stars. (Interview, Source: EIN)
Read the interview
|
 |
Earl Brown has passed away: Ken Sharp has told EIN: "Earl Brown, who wrote "If I Can Dream", has passed away. He was not only a great songwriter but one of the nicest and kindest people I've ever met. I spent time with him at his home in Sherman Oaks, California (the same home where he wrote "If I Can Dream") and had a great time. I knew
he was not well but definitely did not expect this. Please say a prayer for him".
Walter Earl Brown, 1928-2008: Walter Earl Brown, known to his friends as Earl, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Sherman Oaks, California on Thursday, Jan. 10, 2008 after a lengthy illness. Earl had celebrated his 79th birthday on Dec. 25, 2007 with friends. He will be sadly missed by his many friends and relatives across the country. Earl was born in Salt Lake City, UT on Christmas Day, 1928, to Walter L. and Hattie Earl Brown. Earl’s father, Walter played in a "swing" big band so as a child Earl traveled with his parents, living in several cities. Eventually moving to Logan to be close to his mother's family, Earl attended Woodruff Elementary school. During his years in Logan, Earl made lifelong friendships with Ralph Dunn, his cousin Gerry Earl, as well as many others. Earl had a prolific and illustrious career in show business as a singer, composer, vocal arranger, and writer of special material. His work in
television, films, revues, musical recordings and nightclubs began at an early age and continued until his passing. During the 40’s and 50’s Earl is remembered for having been the arranger and singer in the highly acclaimed vocal group The Skylarks.
He wrote a hit song for Elvis Presley in 1968 entitled If I Can Dream, which has been re-recorded by Barry Manilow and others and which was recently performed on American Idol by Celine Dion as a duet, with Elvis
resurrected on stage as a holographic image. Earl wrote songs for Dianne Reeves, including the Grammy winning Who’s Minding The Store?, as well as for Frank Sinatra, Mama Cass, Michael Feinstein, and numerous others. For many years he was the vocal director on many hit variety shows including The Danny Kaye Show, The Dinah Shore Show, The Sonny and Cher Comedy Hour, The Osmonds Brothers Show, The Andy Williams Show, The Carol Burnett Show and many other television programs and specials. Most recently Earl was the vocal arranger and writer of special material for The Palm Springs Follies for the last 13 seasons of the revue.
Earl is survived by cousin Don (Gloria) Earl, Smithfield, UT; cousins-in-law, M. Kae (Ellen Rae) Jeppesen, North Logan, UT; JoAn Earl, Fort Worth, TX, and their families; his "best friend" Ralph (Jackie) Dunn, Logan, UT. He was preceded in death by his parents, aunts, uncles, cousin Carol Jenkins Jeppesen, and his "favorite" cousin and buddy, Gerald E. Earl. (News, Source: Ken Sharp)
Read Ken Sharp's interview with Jerry Schilling
Elvis' abortive romance with Natalie Wood: Lana Wood, sister of screen legend, Natalie Wood, wrote in her book Natalie A Memoir by Her Sister, of the brief relationship in 1956 between Elvis and Natalie:
Then came Natalie's abortive romance with Elvis Presley. They met, and Elvis flew Natalie to his family in Memphis.
They were to be gone almost a week, but just two days into the great adventure, Natalie called.
"Gladys has wrecked everything," Natalie said, referring to Elvis' domineering, jealous mother. "I don't have a chance. Get me out of this, and fast," Natalie said.
It was agreed that Mother would call Natalie back and ask her to come home because of some family emergency. Natalie's romance with the king of rock fizzled out.
"God, it was awful," she told me later. "He can sing, but he can't do much else." (Source: Natalie A Memoir by Her Sister, Lana Wood, G.P. Putnam's Sons, 1984)
|
 |
"Wild In The Country" FTD release delayed: FTD has advised its latest release will now be released during the week beginning Monday 21 January. (News, Source: EP Gold)
Elvis' Childhood Church Moves to Museum: The Elvis Presley Memorial Foundation in Tupelo announced Wednesday it bought the building that once housed the First Assembly of God Church in Tupelo, where Elvis and his family once attended services. Wednesday workers removed the building from it's foundation on Berry Street and moved it over to the museum. Coordinators said the church may bring in new visitors and draw in some returning patrons.
“It'll bring a lot of people who have been to our place, now that we have a new venue they'll come back and see it as well and being the original church makes it even more interesting,” Dick Guyton, executive director of the Elvis Presley Memorial Foundation said.
The building has been a house for the past 50 years; coordinators said they have a lot of work ahead of them to renovate the building to look how it did when Elvis attended the church. Guyton said it should be ready just in time for Fan Appreciation Day in August. (News, Source: EP Gold)
| New book release in the EC: By author Lerma Alcairo Sundita, the 112 page book, "Elvis Lives On!", is listed for release this month. (News, Source: EP Gold) |
 |
Sony BMG Australia to release "Viva Las Vegas" TV special soundtrack: Sony BMG will release the Elvis Viva Las Vegas soundtrack CD in Australia. At this time they are planning this for March 1st as long as production proceeds without any problems. (News, Source: Elvis News/Elvis Australia)
| Wednesday 16 January 2008 |
"I Was The One" unofficial CD release: Due for release from the new Legendary Vinyl Classics label is a re-issue of the 1983 remix album "Elvis I Was The One".
This edition comes with a full color booklet, remastered audio, the original album tracks plus rare bonus tracks. (News, Source: Elvis News) |
 |
"Early Elvis" reissue: BMG Canada released an eco-slipcase edition of the "Early Elvis" compilation on December 17, 2007.
The track listing, which comprises tracks from the King's first two albums, several singles and movie songs, is the same as the original 2007 jewel case editions. (News, Source: Barry McLean) |
 |
| "Elvis Hawaii, USA": A new CD with 25 Hawaiian related - and and according to the update, rare - Elvis tracks has been released. This release contains recordings from the Hawaiian radio, Aloha From Hawaii, the movies, a tribute radio broadcast from March 19, 1961: Elvis and the colonel pay tribute to the victims of Pearl Harbor 1941 and more. (News, Source: Elvis Corner /Elvis News)
Additional track information:
- 2 press conferences
- 2 complete interviews
- Radio promo "hello to Hawaii"
- Elvis talks about the Aloha eagle in Lake Tahoe
- Hawaiian D.J. Tom Moffet calls Elvis in Bad Nauheim, Germany.
- Radio broadcast from March 19, 1961 (songs omitted), including special message from Elvis!
- and more
|
 |
What's happened to?: EIN has made enquiries but no-one is talking about:
- Wider theatrical and/or DVD release of the controversial Dakota Fanning film, Hounddog
- Adam Muskiewicz's The Truth About Elvis documentary film
- Billy Miller's book on his exploits as Elvis' private eye
- Mary Smiley's book on the Elvis is alive conspiracy theory
- DVD release of the acclaimed Kurt Russell biopic, Elvis The Movie
"Portrait Collection": Released on the Musical Memories label is the 2CD "Portrait Collection" with 50 tracks. The CD was released November 26, 2007 but only just appeared on-line.
Track listings:
Disc: 1 - 1. Hound Dog 2. Heartbreak Hotel 3. Love Me 4. Don't Be Cruel 5. Love Me Tender 6. I Want You I Need You 7. My Baby Left Me 8. I Was The One 9. That's Alright 10. Baby Lets Play House 11. Mystery Train 12. Blue Suede Shows 13. I'm Left You're Right She's Gone 14. Tutti Frutti 15. Ready Teddy 16. Any Way You Want Me 17. Money Honey 18. I'm Gonna Sit Right Down And Cry 19. Blue Moon 20. Rip It Up 21. Long Tall Sally 22. Shake Rattle And Roll 23. Old Shep 24. Lawdy Miss Clawdy 25. Paralysed |
 |
Disc: 2 - 1. Trying To Get To You 2. Blue Moon Of Kentucky 3. I Don't Care If The Sun Don't Shine 4. Good Rockin' Tonight
5. Milk Cow Blues Boogie 6. You're A Heartbreaker 7. I Forgot To Remember To Forget 8. I Love You Because 9. Just Because 10. I'll Never Let You Go 11. I Got A Sweetie (I Got A Woman) 12. Poor Boy 13. We're Gonna Move 14. Let Me
15. Playing For Keeps 16. When My Blue Moon Turn To Gold Again 17. Anyplace Is Paradise 18. So Glad You're Mine
19. I'm Counting On You 20. One Sided Love Affair 21. First In Line 22. How's The World Treating You 23. How Do You Think I Feel 24. I Don't Care If The Sun Don't Shine 25. Baby Let's Play House (News, Source: Amazon.co.uk /Elvis News)
"Elvis" skycrane back on the job in Australia:
Elvis in 2007 UK end of year top 10: On the 2007 Bestselling UK Album Artists Elvis is the #10 best selling artist in the UK. On the singles chart Elvis ranks at #27 with sales of 328,373 singles. If there would have been a chart on most singles on the chart in one year Elvis would probably have topped that with 18 entries. On the DVD chart Elvis is listed at #21 with the "Comeback Special" DVD and #27 with "The King Of Rock And Roll" compilation DVD.
Top 10 album sellers:
1 Amy Winehouse 2,196,362
2 Leona Lewis 1,550,039
3 Take That 1,485,390
4 Mika 1,174,177
5 Westlife 1,146,556
6 Michael Buble 832,137
7 Eagles 822,000
8 The Killers 795,280
9 Foo Fighters 755,155
10 Elvis Presley 740,901
|
"Vegas Variety 2": The Rainbow Records import label has announced Volume two in its "Vegas Variety" series containing a complete and nearly 85 minutes long performance of Elvis' December 11, 1976 Midnight Show in Las Vegas.
Media release: Rainbow Records is going to release a double CD-Set titled „Vegas Variety Volume 2“, containing a complete and nearly 85 minutes long performance of Elvis Presley´s Dec. 11th, 1976 Midnight Show in Las Vegas.
|
 |
The recording of this show has been taken from an early generation (audience recorded) Cassette-Tape and it has been carefully worked on using professional studio-equipment. So the Producers are again able to present exactly what their aim for this series of classic Presley-Style Vegas-Concerts stands for: a real good performance from Elvis´ very last engagement at the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel in good and listenable sound-quality, rounded off by a great 20 page booklet containing a lot of information regarding the show – including a detailed review of the concert written just one day after it took place.
Hear Elvis, who is clearly in a relaxed mood, enjoying himself and doing classy versions of songs like 'Trying To Get To You', 'My Way', 'Hurt'. Elvis also does spontaneous versions of „Reconsider Baby“ plus a gospel song called 'Until Then'.
As a bonus you get even more highlights from the December 76 Las Vegas concerts, such as 'I Just Can´t Help Believin´ from the Opening Show and 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' from the Closing Show. We hope you like our second volume of 'Vegas Variety'!
Disc 1 -
01) 01:12 Also Sprach Zarathustra (Richard Strauss)
02) 03:31 See See Rider (traditional)
03) 08:52 I Got A Woman / Amen (Ray Charles) / (traditional)
04) 03:15 Love Me (Leiber / Stoller)
05) 02:51 Trying To Get To You (Singleton / McCoy)
06) 04:10 O Sole Mio / It's Now Or Never (Schroeder / Gold)
07) 01:51 Jailhouse Rock (Leiber / Stoller)
08) 02:51 Until Then (Stuart Hamblen)
09) 03:15 Blue Christmas (Hayes / Johnson)
10) 04:15 Softly As I Leave You (deVita / Shaper)
11) 02:38 Are You Lonesome Tonight ? (Turk / Handman)
12) 00:49 Introduction of the Presley Family (traditional)
13) 04:02 My Way (Anka / Francois / Revaux)
14) 02:44 Band Introductions (traditional)
15) 01:53 Early Morning Rain (Gordon Lightfoot)
16) 00:50 What'd I Say (Ray Charles)
17) 07:19 Johnny B. Goode & Band Soli (Berry)
18) 03:08 Love Letters (Heyman / Young)
19) 00:55 School Days (Chuck Berry)
20) 01:21 Introductions of Celebrities (traditional)
21) 02:08 Hurt (Crane / Jacobs)
|
Disc 2 -
01) 04:34 My Heavenly Father (traditional)
02) 02:44 Danny Boy (Weatherly)
03) 03:10 Walk With Me (traditional)
04) 00:23 Reconsider Baby -false start (Fulsom)
05) 02:44 Reconsider Baby (Fulsom)
06) 01:45 Can't Help Falling In Love (Weiss / Peretti / Creatore)
07) 00:41 Closing Vamp (Traditional)
08) 05:44 I Just Can't Help Believin' (B.j. thomas)
09) 02:48 Fairytale (Anita & Bonnie Pointer)
10) 10:27 Sweet Caroline (Neil Diamond)
11) 03:08 You Better Run / Rock My Sould (traditional / traditional)
12) 04:16 How Great Thou Art (Stuart Hine)
13) 03:18 Steamroller Blues (James Taylor)
14) 02:06 Little Sister (Pomus / Shuman)
15) 04:42 Bridge Over Troubled Water (Paul Simon)
(News, Source: Elvis News) |
Make your own Elvis Smoothie:
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 small ripe banana, sliced 2 tablespoons peanut butter, creamy 1 tablespoon honey 1 cup cold milk
- banana slice and chopped peanuts for garnish, if desired
PREPARATION:
Set aside a slice of the banana for garnish, and put remaining banana, peanut butter, and honey in a blender. Blend until smooth. Add milk and blend until foamy. Garnish with banana slice rolled in chopped peanuts, if desired. Serve immediately.
Makes about 1 1/2 cups, 1 serving. (News, Source: Charmaine Voisine)
Gospel album re-issues: Both the US and UK Amazon stores have the gospel titles "His Hand In Mine", "He Touched Me" and "How Great Thou Art" on pre-order for release from BMG on March 11. 2008. (News, Source: Amazon.com /Elvis News)
Political "Elvis" prowls the stage like his namesake: As a public figure notorious for his appetites, former President Clinton is inhaling humble pie as he campaigns to give wife Hillary a go-ahead victory in Saturday's Nevada presidential caucuses.
The hourlong speeches of Iowa have been halved as Clinton is, in his words, "giving people the opportunity to talk to me." Students at Green Valley High School were invited to fire questions. The ex-president's first-person references were replaced by "we" and former Nevada Gov. Bob Miller, his warm-up man, repeatedly referred to "the Clintons" as if the United States had a co-presidency during the 1990s.
The politician given the code name "Elvis" by security agents early in his first White House run came to life Monday in a city where the real Elvis was a headliner in the 1960s and 1970s. Like Elvis Presley, Bill Clinton prowled the stage and even came down to the same level as the folks. (News, Source: seattlepi.com)
|
