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The latest on www.ElvisInfoNet.com:

Monday 30 January 2017
Sonny & Judy West still need Our Help: Things are very sadly going worse for Sonny West and his wife Judy with both now diagnosed with cancer and needing our help.
Paige Petersen was a fan who happened to overdose on Hycodan one night at Elvis' Palm Springs house around 1973.
She describes how Sony West saved her life and now asks for your help to support Sonny & Judy West...
"As you know, Sonny was one of the original members of the "Memphis Mafia", but to me, he is so much more. This man saved my life. Literally.

If it wasn't for Sonny, I would be dead. I am now 64, but at 17 years old, after a night of partying with Elvis, I fell into a coma. I was unresponsive and Sonny found me, got an ambulance and rode with me to the hospital. He was with me every day, got my mother to me and after a week in a coma, I woke up. The first face I saw was Sonny's. I owe my life to this man. Please pray for Sonny and his beautiful wife, Judy. They both need our prayers and if you can please donate anything at all, I know they would be very grateful. These are good people with bad luck. I wish the Elvis Presley Estate would help out, too. That would be awesome.
But since we cannot count on that, let's all chip in to help this hero and his wife. Please. Please.
Thank you. - Paige Petersen
Bryan West has posted, "Both my mom and dad are two of the kindest and loving individuals I know. Both have been in and out of the hospital due to major health concerns. They need your help and I'm asking for your help. If you can find it somewhere in your heart to contribute, it would be greatly appreciated."
PLEASE CLICK HERE, donate what you can, every little bit helps
West is currently undergoing treatment for cancer shortly after celebrating five years in remission. His wife of 46 years, Judy Jordan, is also undergoing treatment for cancer and will be admitted into surgery next week.
Because of their mounting medical bills, and debt of nearly $22,000, the couple said they are now facing foreclosure, scheduled later this month.
"I just feel very depressed," West said.
To pay off debt they accrued for the various treatments, the couple said they began selling Presley's memorabilia, including the jewelry he gifted West, and a briefcase.
They also started a GoFundMe campaign to raise money to pay off their debt. PLEASE HELP - click here.
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

'Elvis Presley’s #1 Hits' New Graceland Blog: EPE writes.. Elvis Presley had a lot of hit singles. A lot. Seriously. A lot.
If you’ve ever visited Graceland, you’ve no doubt been a little blown away by Elvis’ countless Gold, Diamond and Platinum Records. It’s fun to pick out your favorite songs on the walls and even snap a selfie with your favorite Gold Record.
To celebrate Elvis’ iconic and groundbreaking music, EPE are covering Elvis’ #1 hits on their Graceland Blog. They’ll share the backstory of each song, who played on it, where it landed on various charts and more.
They’ll tackle a few at a time, and every few months or so.

Don't Be Cruel, One Night, In the Ghetto, His Latest Flame and The Wonder Of You are all featured
Click here to EPE for the stories of a few of Elvis’ #1s, picked at random.

 


(News, Source;EPE/ElvisInfoNet)


Judge rules Elvis guitar belongs to National Museum: The debate has been going since July 2014 but now a federal judge ruled this morning that a guitar played by Elvis Presley rightfully belongs to the National Music Museum at the University of South Dakota and not a Memphis-based memorabilia collector.
The decision means that the museum will not have to turn over the guitar to collector Larry Moss, who sued both the museum and Robert Johnson, a broker who negotiated the deal that led to the museum acquiring the guitar.
Moss argued that he had a deal in 2008 with Johnson to purchase the Martin D-35 guitar, which the rock icon played on his final tour in 1977. The guitar was damaged during a show in St. Petersburg, Fla., and Presley gave it to a fan. He died six months later.
But the guitar, one of several instruments negotiated between Moss and Johnson, was never delivered to Johnson. Nor did money change hands for that guitar, although Moss did pay Johnson $70,000 for two other guitars.
Based on correspondence between the two, Schreier ruled that the D-35 was one part of two separate deals negotiated between 2007 and 2010 – one for the two guitars Moss did receive and the other which included the Martin D-35 that was never completed.
The museum hoped Elvis’ broad appeal would help attract visitors.
Knowing the ownership history of the objects entering Museum collections is becoming ever more vital, not only for the educational value of that information, but for legal, ethical, and moral reasons.
“As a non-profit organization,” he added, “of course, we were pained by the expense required to protect this important instrument in our collection, but we’re thrilled that our further investment will allow the Elvis guitar to remain in the public’s eye at the NMM for the learning and enjoyment of our future visitors.”
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

'Sahara Tahoe' New Import: AudiRec proudly presents 'Sahara Tahoe' - probably last “listenable” Lake Tahoe “Summer of 1971” audience recording. Recorded with non-professional equipment by a female fan in the audience - on July 31st, 1971 at the Dinner Show - it is the first time that this concert is available on a “real” cd.
Elvis stint at the “Sahara Tahoe” Hotel in the summer of 1971 isn't well documented. What seems to be pretty clear from our research is that Elvis had a really good time at this first engagement at the (compared to Las Vegas) smaller venue. Rex Martin´s weekly publication for the worldwide Elvis fan base delivered first hand information from fans who were at the shows at the “Sahara Tahoe”. So for instance fans were able to read astounding facts like this in Issue´s number 24 and 25: “Elvis sang Happy Birthday to a 12-year old girl and gave her a 4-LP set! He was giving away those gift sets from the stage now and then….”
It is also interesting to learn that these unusual songs have been heard by fans at at least one of the other shows: Treat Me Nice / Old Shep / Sweet Caroline / It´s Impossible / I Was The One / It´s Over / Hawaiian Wedding Song / My Babe / Help Me Make It Through The Night. Issue number 24 tells us “Elvis wore many white jumpsuits, plus a black and red outfit. Red jacket with black trim, black slacks, red shirt, black Onyx ring” and also “He split his pants once and was so embarrassed!”.
Check dealer's sound samples before buying.
Click Elvis - All the CD News 2017 for more details & tracklistings
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

Thursday 26 January 2017
RIP Mary Tyler Moore: This morning we learnt that actress Mary Tyler Moore had died aged 80. Although best known  for her roles as Laura Petrie in The Dick Van Dyke Show (1961 – 1966), and as Mary Richards in The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1971 – 1977), Mary Tyler Moore is also remembered by Elvis fans as Sister Michelle Gallagher in Elvis’ final scripted film, Change Of Habit (1969).
Born in Brooklyn, New York, and initially living in Flushing, Queens, Moore and her family moved to Los Angeles when she was eight. At age 17, she decided that she wanted to be a dancer. However, she ended up moving into acting, appearing in guest roles on such television shows as 77 Sunset Strip, Wanted: Dead Or Alive, Surfside Six, and Hawaiian Eye (N.B. Surfside Six featured Diane McBain, and the cast of Hawaiian Eye included Anthony Eisley, and Poncie Ponce, all of whom would appear in Elvis’ 1960s movies).
Moore’s big break came in 1961 when she was cast as Laurie Petrie, wife of Rob Petrie, Dick Van Dyke’s character in The Dick Van Dyke Show.  The show ran until 1966, and earned Moore two Emmy Awards as Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series.
Subsequently, she found greater success playing Mary Richards in The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1970 – 1977) (which also featured Ed Asner who had appeared with Elvis in Kid Galahad, and Change of Habit). The show earned a then-record 29 Emmy Awards (including four for Moore herself, who also won a Golden Globe for the series), and has become a television classic. She continued to work in television on and off until 2013, with her last appearance being a guest spot on Hot In Cleveland.
Moore also made 15 movies, including Thoroughly Modern Millie (1967), and Ordinary People (1980), for which she was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress (losing out to Sissy Spacek for Coal Miner’s Daughter).  She also appeared in Elvis’ final scripted film, Change of Habit. The movie – made as part of the NBC deal that included the 1968 Elvis ‘comeback’ television special. – was filmed between March and May 1969, and released nationally on 10 November the same year, reaching #17 on the year-end list of top-grossing films (which was quite impressive given its late release date!).
In a December 1969 article for Coronet magazine, Moore is quoted as saying “I was an Elvis fan before I ever met him, but probably later than most girls were. I began to like the way he sang when he began to put more feeling into his songs. You know, I thought anybody who had been the centre of all that insanity for so long would have some of it rub off on him …

Most of my preconceived notions were not borne out. For instance, I was very surprised at how awfully good he is as an actor.”

In her 1995 autobiography, After All, Moore noted that “Elvis confessed right from the start that he’d had a crush on me since The Dick Van Dyke Show. He was so shy about it he was literally kicking at the dirt below him as he talked. He had a tendency, even though I was younger, to call me ‘ma’am’ out of respect: ‘Yes ma’am. Be right there, ma’am.’”
In an interview with Larry King, Moore recalled her time shooting Change of Habit as “a wonderful experience”, however, co-star Barbara McNair had recalled her as being “kind of standoffish”, with Jane Elliot remembering that Moore “didn’t get involved. She didn’t socialise.” Additionally, the film’s Director, William Graham, noted that Moore “wondered what she was doing in an Elvis Presley movie”, and that “she was a little bit on the prissy side, but that was okay, because she was playing a nun”. Whether the reserve Moore displayed was due to her strong work ethic, or her specific diet which resulted in her eating separately from the other cast and crew, everyone involved in the movie seems to have been in agreement that she was “very cooperative, a real nice person” (Director assistant, Walt Gilmore), “a wonderful actor and a wonderful person” (Director, William Graham), and that she had an excellent work ethic (Co-star, Jane Elliot).

Although there was apparently no affair between Elvis and Moore, interestingly, in 2009, when asked by Parade magazine, which of her co-stars was most her type, Moore responded, “I think maybe Elvis, because he went so against the grain.”
After years of dealing with various health issues (she had been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, was a recovering alcoholic, had undergone brain surgery to remove a benign meningioma in 2011, and was apparently suffering from heart and kidney problems), Moore died from cardiopulmonary arrest because of pneumonia in Greenwich Hospital, Connecticut on 25 January 2017, after being placed on a respirator the previous week. She was 80 years old, and is survived by her third husband, Dr S Robert Levine, whom she married in 1983. Levine, and some close friends were with Moore at the time of her death.
RIP Mary Tyler Moore: (29 Dec 1936 – 25 Jan 2017)
With thanks to EIN contributor Neil C.
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

'Elvis On Tour' boxset for 2017?: It would make sense to tie in the 2017 long-awaited 'Elvis On Tour' box-set with the already announced 'Elvis On Tour: 1972' FTD book. 2017 is also the 45th Anniversary of 'Elvis On Tour' and what a treat for Elvis collectors for the 40th Anniversary year.
Now the rumours look even more likely as Memphis audio-engineer Matt Ross-Spang (who did such a good job on the "Way Down in the Jungle Room" legacy release) recently announced to music magazine 'Tape Op' that "Now (Sony) have got me mixing some live shows, and rehearsals from Elvis' live shows."
What other shows could they be with rehearsals that need multitrack re-mixing?
Matt Ross-Spang also commented.. that since moving in to Sam Phillips' Memphis studio, "I've been mixing Elvis in here, which is funny. He got tired of recording in Nashville, so he demanded they record him at home. He'd done the record at American Sound Studio, obviously with From Elvis in Memphis. So then Felton Jarvis bought a bread truck, turned it into a mobile studio, and drove it down to Memphis. It promptly broke down in Jackson, Tennessee, so they towed it to Graceland, where it stayed until after Elvis died. We found one picture of the
outside, but we've been trying to find pictures of the inside of the truck. They recorded a bunch of dates in Graceland's Jungle Room, so I mixed a lot of that.
They put out the original masters, as well as all my mixes of the unreleased music [Way Down in the Jungle Room - see EIN review here]. Now they've got me mixing some live shows, and rehearsals from the live shows.
- (Hearing Elvis' voice) It's amazing! The studio banter is incredible too, because you hear Elvis completely relaxed in his "element." He really controlled the sessions musically, as well. He really pushes the band to get the feeling he wants. When I was mixing, they brought the guys down, so James Burton [guitar], Ronnie Tutt [drums], and Norbert Putnam [bassist] were there.
- (Ronnie Tutt) He's like Animal (from the Muppets) on the drums; just endless energy, especially with that double bass drum! Mixing the Elvis tracks has really inspired me with the artists I have been working with lately. Those Elvis records had incredible arrangements, with horns, strings, and The Stamps Quartet that really make choruses huge and the songs feel so cinematic. I really love the impact that they have on his records, so I've been stealing that idea!

Go here to the full article --- (Cover above is an EIN suggestion!)
EIN thanks Johnny van der Geld for the LINK
(News, Source;JVG/ElvisInfoNet)

Monday 23 January 2017

'The World of FTD' In-Depth Review: The new deluxe book 'The World Of FTD' has been received by some lucky fans and Elvis collector Mike Lodge has provided EIN with a very detailed review - of well over 3 thousand words!

The book was authored and designed by Keith Flynn with input from a large number of other Elvis specialists including EIN's Piers Beagley, EM&HM's Trevor Cajiao, Geoffrey McDonnell, Gordon Minto and many others.
It is 1,200 pages, hardbound three book set, chronicling every release by FTD.The book also features 100s of high-quality photos from the collection Erik Lorentzen
KJ Consulting are proud to publish this Box Set which weighs 8 kilos.

Unfortunately the book has not arrived in Australia yet so I have not seen the final product!
Go here to see his very detailed review - plus more new preview pages - EIN thanks Mike Lodge for the review
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)


Elvis Files Magazine Issue 19: Erik Lorentzen has posted the front cover of the March 2017 issue of his Elvis Files Magazine.

Issue #19 will feature articles on...
1954 - The William Speer photos
1969 - Opening Night, The International, Las Vegas
1974 - Elvis Live at the LA Forum
  

 

Subscribe annually for 4 issues by sending €58 by PayPal to: sales@elvisfiles.no

Or also €15 for a single issue

or click here to Elvis Files subscriptions

 


(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)


Saturday 21 January 2017
Elvis Week 2017 Tentative Schedule of Events: EPE is already making plans for Elvis Week 2017 which will mark the 40th anniversary since Elvis’ passing. Graceland is anticipating this to be the largest Elvis Week ever. Fans from around the world will make the ultimate pilgrimage to Graceland in August 2017 to be close to Elvis' spirit during this very special celebration of his life and legacy.
Elvis Week 2017 will be August 11-19.
Click here to EPE for a tentative schedule of events for Elvis Week 2017 for planning purposes.
EIN notes Wednesday, August 16 features the "Elvis Week Concert Event" for 8pm, which we presume will be the "Elvis with the RPO" performance with special added guests.
EPE notes, additional information will be posted as details are finalized.
(News, Source;EPE/ElvisInfoNet)

EPE being sued over civil rights violations: The City of Memphis and Elvis Presley Enterprises are being sued over civil rights violations. A complaint filed yesterday in federal court stems from an issue that took place at the Candlelit Vigil at Graceland's Elvis Week last August. Five people who are African American claim they were discriminated against and not allowed to participate in the vigil because of their race. They say the treatment violated deprived them of rights under the United States and Tennessee Constitutions, as well as violated a slew of other claims under federal and state law.
During Elvis Week a group associated with the Black Lives Matter movement protested nearby the candlelight vigil, and police in riot gear prevented the protesters from entering an area of a public street where The Elvis fans were gathering. The civil rights lawsuit accuses both Graceland and Memphis police of barring the protesters because of the color of their skin.
Three protesters were ultimately arrested in the Graceland incident. Those suing Graceland and the city of Memphis seek a jury trial and unspecified damages.
The lawsuit also claims some of the plaintiffs who said "black lives matter" while on the grounds were approached by officers and instructed to leave. One claim alleges Memphis Police physically carried someone out by the arms when she did not immediately move.
Memphis Police and EPE are accused of depriving the African American plaintiffs their constitutional rights to equal access, as well as a slew of other claims under federal and state law. The complaint does not say whether any of the five were part of a protest that happened the same evening nearby.
City spokespeople say they cannot comment on pending litigation.
In a statement, EPE said of the lawsuit, "For 34 years now, Graceland has welcomed over 20 million visitors. They have come to celebrate the life and legacy of Elvis Presley from nearly every country on Earth, and they have all been welcomed without incident. Graceland is proud of its worldwide reputation for inclusion and hospitality as it welcomes the next 20 million visitors."
(News, Source;AP/ElvisInfoNet)

'Can't Help Falling In Love' Latest UK BPI Certification: The UK single 'Can't Help Falling In Love' released in January 2005 has received UK BPI Silver Certification (Single) for 200,000 sales on 20 January 2017.


Why this single that charted lower than the re-releases of Jailhouse Rock and One Night - and which people surely aren't buying now -  has suddenly been awarded this sales certification is a bit of a mystery.

Having said that, any new official awards for a star that passed away over 39 years ago is still something to celebrate.

 


(News, Source;BrianQuinn/ElvisInfoNet)


Tom Jones dines out with Priscilla: It may be no big deal but paparazzi snapped a photo of 78 year-old Tom Jones and Priscilla 71 out to dinner together. The pair arrived at LA's Craig’s Eatery in the Welsh singer’s white Rolls Royce.
The pair have met before a number of times after Tom met her late husband Elvis back in the Sixties and also hanging out together while in Las Vegas in the seventies.
Priscilla was married to Elvis from 1967 to 1973 and never remarried following her divorce from Elvis. She did however have a long relationship with Marco Garibaldi, the father of her son Navarone.
Sir Tom Jones married childhood sweetheart Linda ten years earlier in 1957 when they were both 16 and remained wed until her death in April last year .
EIN wonders if Jones re-told his story to Priscilla about Elvis coming in to the bathroom of Jones' hotel suite, while Jones was taking a shower. "He was standing there cleaning up, looking in the mirror and so I'm naked and Elvis is half-naked; his pants are down by his ankles."
It's a story you can dine out on!

(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

Latest US Billboard Charts: The joy of Christmas Elvis has departed in the Billboard charts for week ending 28th January, 2017:
Elvis has no albums on the Billboard Top 200 Album Charts

- 'He Touched Me' is 119 on the Top 200 Album Sales Chart (w/e 12.01.2017) and is a new entry at 37 on the Top Catalog Albums Chart
- 'The Wonder Of You' remains at 4 on the Classical Albums Chart
- 'Elvis: Ultimate Gospel' rises from 5 to 4 on the Country Catalog Albums Chart and is 185 on the Top 200 Album Sales Chart (w/e 12.01,2017)
- 'Elvis: 30 No.1 Hits' rises from 7 to 6 on the Country Catalog Albums Chart
- 'If I Can Dream' drops from 12 to 16 on the Classical Albums Chart
- 'He Touched Me: The Gospel Music Of Elvis Presley' (Vols. 1 & 2) remains at 2 on the Music Video Sales Chart
- Elvis is 98 on the Artist 100 Chart
(News, Source;BrianQuinn/ElvisInfoNet)


Tuesday 17 January 2017
'Elvis: Spirit Of Jackson, MS' - FTD In-depth Review: On May 5th 1975 Elvis performed a concert in aid of the McComb tornado victims at the State Fair Coliseum, Jackson, Mississippi. Elvis raised $108, 860 to help residents who were affected by the devastation. Since the audio for this benefit show is damaged beyond repair, 'Spirit Of Jackson, MS' includes two other shows from the State Fair Coliseum. Just over a month after the charity show, Elvis performed in Jackson again on June 8 1975 and this show is featured on Disc 2. Disc 1 is from September 5 1976 and one of his very best performances from 1976, prior to his stunning late December shows.
For once the set’s main show is the previously unreleased September 5, 1976 concert. Knowing how average/poor Elvis’ shows could be in 1976 this really is a positive statement from FTD that this is an important performance, and luckily recorded in superb quality sound...
Go here as Elvis soundboard super-collector Geoffrey McDonnell & EIN's Piers Beagley check out this new FTD double-pack .....
(FTD Reviews, Source;GM/PB/ElvisInformationNetwork) 


'The World of FTD' Mini-Review: The new deluxe book 'The World Of FTD' has been received by some lucky fans and EIN has got a first mini review.

The book was authored and designed by Keith Flynn with input from a large number of other Elvis specialists including EIN's Piers Beagley, EM&HM's Trevor Cajiao, Geoffrey McDonnell, Gordon Minto and many others.
It is 1,200 pages, hardbound three book set, chronicling every release by FTD.The book also features 100s of high-quality photos from the collection Erik Lorentzen
KJ Consulting are proud to publish this Box Set which weighs 8 kilos.

Unfortunately the book has not arrived in Australia yet so I have not seen the final product!
Go here to see the first mini-review plus more preview pages - EIN thanks Stefan Kock for the review
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)


2017 Special Anniversaries: Several websites are commenting on this years special anniversaries. The highlights of 1977, with cinematic first releases such as Star Wars and Saturday Night Fever, the TV miniseries Roots and the death of rock’s first and ultimate superstar Elvis Presley gives ’67 competition in the rose-coloured nostalgia category.
So from Elvis and Summer Of Love to Star Wars and Roots, here are 2017’s most significant anniversaries.
To be honest the most major celebrations are from 50 years ago when the ’60s generation decimated everything in its path, ensuring that every decade in its wake would reverberate with a faint temporal echo.
50 years: Summer of Love.
50 years: Monterey Pop Festival
50 years: Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band
50 years: Hair (the barrier-breaking play) opens off-Broadway
50 years: Aretha Franklin’s “Respect” hits No. 1
40 years: Star Wars is released
40 years: Roots becomes a small screen TV phenomenon

and finally...
40 years: Elvis Presley dies

When the King of Rock and Roll finally succumbed to pressure of constant touring Aug. 16, 1977, it was the first indication that larger-than-life rock icons who had become symbols of eternal youth were fallible.
Previously most "rock casualties" before him had been victims of freak accidents (Buddy Holly, Otis Redding) or late ’60s rock excess (Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison) but if an icon as large as Elvis could die, then anyone could.

Elvis' impact was so great that decades later there are still fans convinced that he has to be alive. Poor Elvis.

(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)


Brendon Chase crowned Parkes Ultimate ETA: They came, they saw, and one conquered, earning the title of Australia Parkes’ 2017 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist. Brendon Chase of New Zealand took on 17 of the top Elvis tribute artists from across Australia and New Zealand in a preliminary round of the 2017 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest, officially endorsed by EPE.
Contestants were judged on vocals, appearance, stage presence and the overall quality of the performance.
The stakes were high, with Brendon Chase not only going through to the semi-final in Memphis, but also winning a $3,000 cash prize and a chance to perform at Elvis in the Gardens 2017.
Brendon Chase has been New Zealand’s number one Elvis tribute artist for more than 20 years. Over the years Brendon has won titles and played in all major venues throughout Australasia.
“Brendon’s ability to inhabit the dynamic stage presence of The King meant he was a deserving winner among a strong group of talented tribute artists,” Parkes Elvis Festival Director Cathy Treasure said.
Second place was awarded to Sean Spiteri of Sydney and third place went to Adelaide's Matt Birse.
(News, Source;Parkes/ElvisInfoNet)


Saturday 14 January 2017 - - - - - - Elvis Birthday Celebrations -
January 14 - 'Aloha Via Satellite': It was on January 14 1973, forty-four years ago, that Elvis performed his classic record-breaking concert. Dressed in his stunning "American-Eagle" jumpsuit, tanned, slim and Adonis-like Elvis was truly at the peak of his later career.
    "$2.5 million in the making and one billion in the watching, the global telecast of Elvis: Aloha From Hawaii was and forever will be a pinnacle in television and music history. No solo performer other than Elvis Presley could have headlined such an undertaking, and for that matter no entertainment enterprise other than RCA could have pulled it off.
    Outside of Elvis himself and the managerial smarts of Colonel Parker it was the technical leadership of RCA that enabled the finished article to be presented in such a hi-tech manner.
    "Aloha From Hawaii" wasn’t the first global satellite broadcast; that was rudimentary arts magazine known as Our World. It might be hard to comprehend now, but ‘in person’ location recordings were still in their infancy when the extravaganza began to take shape."
...
Click here for a look at the Legacy CD release and Boxcar 'ALOHA' deluxe book
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

Parkes Australia Elvis Festival: This morning in the small NSW country town of Parkes near 20 thousands fans turned out for parade celebrating The King of Rock 'n' Roll. Elvis Presley fans of all ages took over the streets of Parkes to celebrate their love for the king of rock 'n' roll.
The street parade is one of the feature events of the Parkes Elvis Festival, which this year celebrates 25 years.
And while temperatures soared into the 40Cs, over 100F, it did not keep dedicated fans from turning out to celebrate the legacy of the rock music pioneer.
At the 25th annual festival there are Elvis tribute artists from all walks of life trying to get noticed with the hope of becoming the next big thing.
There was also an increase in the number of younger fans at the festival, which is tipped to draw 25,000 visitors.

Organisers hope the support of young people will lead to another 25 successful years of the festival, that is estimated to boost the local economy by $11 million.
Festival director Cathy Treasure said the week-long event has developed an international profile and is drawing Elvis enthusiasts from abroad.
"I think it's a great reputation as a festival … word's just spreading throughout the world about it," Ms Treasure said.
The festival runs until Sunday and includes a range of events, including a competition to find the best Elvis tribute act.

Go here to the Parkes Elvis Festival website for info
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)


The Elvis Express - leaves the station: Sydney's Central Station was all shook up Thursday morning when hundreds of Presley fans boarded the Elvis Express. The train will take a seven-hour trip to the town of Parkes where the annual Australian Elvis Presley Festival will celebrate the life and music of the King.
Commuters probably notices something different at the station this morning when a large number of the crowd turned up looking like Elvis and Priscilla in all shapes and colours.
The tickets for this special trip sold out in hours way back in September 2016. Travellers were treated to Elvis-tastic tribute performances before and during the rail trip.
"From humble beginnings eleven years ago when we had 16 fans aboard, this year we will welcome almost 400 dedicated followers of the King to start their festival party before leaving Sydney," NSW TrainLink Chief Executive Rob Mason said.

The Elvis Presley Festival is in its 25th year and is running with the theme 'Viva Las Vegas'. The festival is predicted to be bigger than ever with up to 25,000 people expected to rock and roll in Parkes from 11th to 15th January.
The idea for the Elvis festival came about in 1993 at a birthday party in a restaurant organised by keen Elvis fans, including a man who changed his name to Elvis via deed poll.
Geography professors Chris Gibson and John Connell have co-authored a book about the phenomenon called 'Outback Elvis' which will be launched at the festival tomorrow. Between them, they have attended every Elvis Festival for the last 15 years.
From its humble beginnings as a small town parade to today's five day extravaganza of Elvis, the festival is now the largest annual tourism event in Parkes. It's now so popular that some hotels are booked out during the second weekend in January for the next five years -- there are even rumours that some people have booked their room for the festival until they die.

(News, Source;GMcDonnell/ElvisInfoNet)


Latest US Billboard Charts: The joy of Christmas Elvis has departed in the Billboard charts for week ending 21st January, 2017:
Elvis has no albums on the Billboard Top 200 Album Charts.

'He Touched Me' is 150 on the Independent Mass Merchant Album Charts selling some 2,115 last week
'The Wonder Of You' drops from 43 to 50 on the Top Rock Albums Chart and rises from 6 to 4 on the Classical Albums Chart
'Elvis: Ultimate Gospel' rises from 12 to 5 on the Country Catalog Albums Chart
'Elvis: 30 No.1 Hits' drops from 6 to 7 on the Country Catalog Albums Chart
'Heart And Soul' drops from 20 to 22 on the Country Catalog Albums Chart
'If I Can Dream' drops from 10 to 12 on the Classical Albums Chart
'He Touched Me: The Gospel Music Of Elvis Presley (Vols. 1 & 2) rises from 3 to 2 on the Music Video Sales.
(News, Source;BrianQuinn/ElvisInfoNet)


Wednesday 11 January 2017 - - - - - - Elvis Birthday Celebrations -

2017 Elvis Birthday Celebration Memphis: Graceland celebrated Elvis’ birthday as construction continues on schedule for the new, state-of-the-art “Elvis Presley’s Memphis” entertainment complex across the street from the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s Memphis mansion. Graceland guests, fans from around the world, Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland and Shelby County Mayor Mark Luttrell officially celebrated with a proclamation of “Elvis Presley Day” on the front lawn of Graceland and by cutting the largest birthday cake in Graceland history.
Also includes T.G Sheppard talking about Graceland.
Other birthday events included concerts and panel discussions, with special guests including “Follow That Dream” movie co-stars Robin and Gavin Koon and award-winning filmmaker Andrew Solt, who made a number of acclaimed films and television specials about Elvis Presley. For the first time ever, birthday celebration events were hosted at Graceland’s new The Guest House at Graceland. The birthday celebrations kick-off the 40th anniversary year of Elvis’ passing.
You can CLICK HERE to Live stream to watch the 2017 Elvis Birthday Proclamation Ceremony
None of the Presley family were in attendance this year.  - Run 40 minutes in total.

(News, Source;EPE/ElvisInfoNet)


Graceland Auction Nets over $330,000: On Saturday the Auction at Graceland netted $330,531 in sales from the 160 pieces of Elvis Presley memorabilia up for auction.
Highlights included a Gold and Diamond Lion Head Ring Elvis owned and gave to Charlie Hodge, one of the Memphis Mafia. It was estimated to sell for $10,000 - $15,000 and went for $37,500. Elvis’ Colt “Police Positive Special” .32 Caliber Pistol which he gave to bodyguard Richard Grob sold for $10,625.00 on an estimate of $4,000 - $6,000.
Elvis Kid Galahad Boxing Glove made $11,875, this was also above the top estimate of $10,000.
There were also two other pieces that Elvis gave to Charlie Hodge, which included a sapphire and gold ring along with an “Indian Head” gold coin ring dated from 1911.
Other items that were especially popular at the Graceland auction were images of Elvis. Some of these included Terry Wood photographs which showed Elvis Presley’s 1956 concert held in Tupelo, Mississippi, Presley’s hometown, which earned $8,125.

There were also 35mm negatives that were originals of an Elvis Presley jam session which featured the guitarist Scotty Moore, who passed away last year. These were estimated to be worth $2,000, but sold for $6,250. (see two pics below). Trude Forsher also held an archive of photos that sold for $6,250, with the pre-auction estimate listed at $1,500.
There are numerous other items at the Auction at Graceland that held interest for bidders, especially personal belongings of Elvis which had been used often. These included things like a platinum album award for Aloha from Hawaii, which sold for $9,375, a blue suede jacket that Elvis Presley wore which fetched $4,750, a diamond cluster cocktail ring that was auctioned at $13,750, a card which showed that Presley was certified as a sixth-degree black belt in karate received $2,375, and a Union 76 credit card from the 1970s which sold at $3,375.
Go here to EPE for full results

(News, Source;Various/ElvisInfoNet)


'TCB Band - Still Taking Care Of Business" New Book: Word of a new book from photographer Eddie Michel Azoulay who has followed the TCB Band for two years. His beautiful photos are now included in the new book 'TCB Band - Still Taking Care Of Business' which came about in collaboration with "Elvis Unlimited / Memphis Mansion" Henrik Knudsen. Knudsen is of course known for the recent issues with "Graceland Randers" now renamed the "Memphis Mansion" in Denmark. The book has 144 pages with pictures of the current members of the TCB Band backstage before, during and after performances, concerts on stage, and much more. Thomas La Cour is responsible for the English text in the book.
Limited to 1000 copies.
It has been noted that the book features no new interviews with the TCB Band and provides no credits as to where the TCB Band intervew material has been sourced.
Respected author Arjan Deelen (publisher of the most in-depth interviews with the TCB Band) wrote to EIN..
...
"The text, only about 13 pages A4, I feel does not do the band justice. There's almost nothing about their many collaborations through the years (John Denver, Gram Parsons, Emmylou Harris, Roy Orbison, etc)... it's basically only about their work with Elvis. A lost opportunity if you ask me.
I feel that my in-depth interviews with the TCB Band were a major source yet La Cour mentions no sources and provides no credits.
As for the factual content: there's a lot, quite a lot, that I recognize from my own interviews with the TCB guys.
Those that have the book are welcome to compare what La Cour writes about each player with my own interviews, such as with Ronnie Tutt and Jerry Scheff - GO HERE.

Click HERE to EIN's review of  Arjan Deelen's extensive TCB Band interview book 'Walk A Mile In My Shoes'
(News, Source;AD/ElvisInfoNet)

Parkes Elvis Festival Starts Today: The world's biggest Elvis Birthday celebration, Australia’s Parkes Elvis Festival starts today running five days January 11 - 15, 2017.
The festival turns 25 this year and celebrates the "Viva Las Vegas" theme, so get set for a neon lit bejeweled sin city spectacular! Over 18,000 fans are expected to arrive in the small NSW country town with temperatures predicted as HOT HOT HOT, as high as 40C / 104 °F !
The program is jam-packed with leading U.K. Elvis tribute artist Pete Storm and U.S. Elvis tribute artist Jake Rowley guest starring in a double-header 2017 Concert Series.
The return of the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest will see top Elvis tribute artists battle it out in electrifying rounds for the chance to represent Parkes during the Semi Final round of the 2017 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest in Memphis, Tennessee, USA, during Elvis Week next August.
The Elvis Express will roll its way from Sydney to Parkes with passengers enjoying onboard entertainment from a bevy of Elvis tribute artists. The 2017 Goodsell Machinery Miss Priscilla  Dinner sees the sashing of the 2017 Miss Priscilla as the audience enjoys a two-course dinner and show.
Always a highlight of Parkes Elvis Festival, the main Street Parade, with Elvis-themed floats, vintage cars and marching bands to boot.
There is the Busking Competition which draws in talented tribute artists who line the Festival Boulevard to serenade crowds and compete for the title of the 2017 Parkes Elvis Festival Best Busker.
The Cooke Parke Main Stage plays host to a range of free entertainment and competitions including the Junior and Senior Tribute to Elvis Competition and the Rock ‘n’ Roll Dancing Competition.
“We always have an incredible pool of talented Festival-goers who love to get involved with the Festival on many different levels. said Festival Director Cathy Treasure.
The 2017 Parkes Elvis Festival features more than 120 free and ticketed events, shows, concerts and more.
Go here to the Parkes Elvis Festival website for info
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

Tupelo celebrates Elvis' 82nd birthday: Dozens braved the cold to attend the annual birthday celebration for Elvis Presley at the Tupelo birthplace and museum on Sunday. Elvis was born in Tupelo on Jan. 8, 1935. This year he would have been 82.
“This date is always important to Tupelo,” said Birthplace and Museum executive director Dick Guyton. “It’s important to us here as well. We have people come in from all over the world to help us celebrate his birthday. Today is no different.”
“Elvis was always a giver. He gave back to his fans and gave back to people that didn’t even know him that he didn’t know. Over the years, we’ve tried to do the same thing here at the birthplace and give to the fans like he would have done and give to the community like he would have done. It’s a fun time for the fans and a fun time for us to see friends that we’ve made over the years that come from all over.”
Go here for full article
(News, Source;TupleoNews/ElvisInfoNet)

March 2017, Grand Opening Celebration of “Elvis Presley’s Memphis": It was announced that Priscilla Presley will be attending the Grand Opening Celebration of “Elvis Presley’s Memphis,” an entertainment and exhibit complex over 200,000-square-feet in size across the street from Graceland Mansion, opening on March 2, 2017.

The largest entertainment complex of its kind, and exponentially bigger than Graceland’s current visitor center, “Elvis Presley’s Memphis” will enable music fans, pop culture enthusiasts and Memphis visitors to follow the path that Elvis took, surround themselves with the things that he loved, and experience the sights and sounds of the city that inspired him. 

The acclaimed Graceland Mansion tour will continue to present the personal and family side of Elvis’ life, and will soon include a full restoration of Elvis’ racquetball court, so that it once again looks exactly as it did when Elvis was last in the Racquetball Building. 
(News, Source;EPE/ElvisInfoNet)

'The Essential Undubbed Masters 1969-1976' Import box-set: This brand new deluxe 8 CD import set of 146 tracks is out now.
Recording sessions can be time-consuming. The process of recording a song or album is often very interesting.
Small corrections could be made but especially erasing something from the tape was a problem. Later on with the introduction of multi track recording equipment it became much easier to alter the recordings. Channels could be erased or added and levels could be adjusted for each separate channel.
Often a track that ends up on an LP or 45 contains overdubs that were made at a later stage and added to the master take.
Also most of The Elvis masters contain such overdubs.
This set contains the master takes as they were made in the studio, without those overdubs.
It’s as close as it gets to the pure sound of Elvis.
Sit back and enjoy! - Priced at around US$100 if you can find it.
EIN notes that a very large amount of this release has already come out officially on FTD.
EIN has also asked FTD to confirm whether they have any future "Undubbed Masters" releases planned.

Click here to Elvis - All the CD News 2017 for tracklistings
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)


Sunday 8th January 2017 - - - HAPPY BIRTHDAY ELVIS !! - - -

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ELVIS

EIN wishes Elvis all the best, where ever he is, celebrating his 82nd Birthday.

 

Fifty-five years ago today in 1962 Elvis celebrated his 27th birthday at the Sahara Hotel in Las Vegas - (photo right).

  

Elvis was there with Memphis girlfriend Bonnie Bunkley as well as Joe Esposito & friends. Elvis also met up with one of his favourite songwriters Don Robertson.
President Nigel Patterson of the Elvis Information Network Fan Club (Australia's oldest Elvis fan club) was also there to present Elvis with a special Birthday cake. 

Elvis Presley's Birthday:
What does one remember or think about on Elvis Presley's birthday?
The 1950's, or the Army years? What about the sixties movies and Las Vegas?
Or the controversy surrounding his death?
All of those aspects may come to mind when one recalls Elvis; but I have noticed that almost everyone I speak to overlooks one tremendously important aspect: His impact on our world today.
When you look at any truly talented singer today; from the Beatles to Lady Gaga; they are all touched in one way or another by Elvis Presley.
Elvis paved the way for future performers to express themselves

freely and not be stopped by any barrier. Born shortly after the Great Depression, in Tupelo, Mississippi; Elvis was destined for greatness.
By the age of 21, he had a gold record, one million dollars and a movie deal. He inspired people to fulfill the ‘American Dream’ all over the world and demonstrated that it was attainable.
Throughout his life, he gave to people sometimes with donations to various charities or with hope.
Hope for someone, that someday, they would be able to live without the fear of being judged because they are a different race or religion.
Hope to that one kid in every school who was always different and harassed or looked down on. One day they could rise above those who tormented them and be successful and have the life they had always wanted. And so, today on the seventy-ninth anniversary of his birth, let us not remember him for his death or common human qualities; but for his contribution to all generations: past, present and future.
“ It’s rare when an artist’s talent can touch an entire generation of people. It’s even rarer when that same
influence affects several generations.”
--Dick Clark.
Article by EIN contributor Jenna Jachles.
(News, Source;JennaJachles/ElvisInfoNetwork)


Elvis' birthday, complete with a little snow!: This would be an unusual surprise for The King Of Rock 'n' Roll, snow on his 2017 birthday weekend. Snow disrupted operations at the FedEx Express Memphis hub overnight and prompted Delta Air Lines to cancel four Friday afternoon flights between Memphis and Atlanta.
Some flights in and out of Memphis International Airport were delayed by the snow storm.
A airport spokeswoman noted, "We are operating and committed to service to the best of our ability.
Memphis airport spokesman said he wasn't aware of airfield-related issues causing delays or cancellations.
Luckily Elvis had no plans to travel this weekend and the 'Lisa Marie' plane is safely on the ground close-by in Memphis
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

Happy Birthday - Six Great Elvis Moments: The NBC 'Today' show is still loving Elvis tender - and present six great Elvis moments to honor the King's birthday.
... Elvis Presley would have been 82 today, but we lost the King of Rock 'n' Roll when he was just 42, back in 1977. Unless you're one of the crowd that chooses to believe the King never left us, that he's still around somewhere, hanging with Bigfoot or aliens, living a happy life out of the public spotlight that so dominated his life.
But regardless of that, Presley lives on forever in our popular culture. Here are six great moments from the world of the one, the only, Elvis.
- 'Ed Sullivan Show' appearances in 1956 and 1957
Popular television host Ed Sullivan had said Presley was unfit for a family audience, but when the singer was a hit on other shows, Sullivan decided to bring him on.
- Sergeant Elvis
Near the end of 1957, Presley received his draft notice and the joined as a regular soldier.
- 1968 comeback special
Presley's star had slipped a bit by 1968, but his now-famous television comeback special, "Elvis," was a return worthy of the King.
- Elvis meets Nixon
The famed 1970 photo of a velvet-clad Presley shaking hands with
then-president Richard Nixon is the most-requested photo held by the National Archives. Jowly Nixon and sultry Presley might as well have come from different planets.
- Shooting the TV
It sounds like an urban legend, but Elvis' own father confirmed to Good Housekeeping that his son did indeed shoot out a television set. (see in-depth Vernon Presley Interview here)
- Elvis US stamp vote
In 1992, Americans cast their votes for which image of Elvis to use. Incredibly nearly 1.2 million ballots were cast.
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

'Let Me.. Sing Again' New Import: Delayed - but now due out Mid-January, MxF label's second special product called "Let Me.. Sing Again featuring Elvis' Dinner and Midnight show from August 25th, 1973.
These AUDIENCE recordings are taken directly from a first generation of original tapes.
The afternoon show is previously unreleased show, the evening show previously released here is presented in a very improved audio-quality.
August 1973, Elvis Is back for his last summer season..The 1973 was begun in the better way, with the Aloha special at least commercial talking .But the things turned immediately toward the wrong direction..the man had too weight to bear in his human shoulders... But as always for Elvis the music keeps his mind alive and overall active..so the best moments of our man is when He is on the stage..
The August 25 present Elvis in positive mood , both the shows are solid and well performed...Elvis deliveries some killer versions.
This is the second very special Product for this label,
Go to 'All The CD News 2016' for full details and tracklisting
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

Friday 6 January 2017
'Tickle Me' Francine York died aged 80:  It is with great sadness that I share that my dear friend Francine York passed away this morning - writes Celeste Yarnall. I have known Francine since we were both teenagers and began our modeling careers with Max Factor in Hollywood. We always had such fun together traveling to media shows such as Memphis / Graceland, or the Hollywood Shows here in Los Angeles.
I cannot believe that Francine York is no longer here with us here on this physical plain. We have heard she had a fever last night and went to the ER early this morning and passed away there. She was 80 years old. Devastating news for all of us who knew her or loved her work as an actress.
Let’s celebrate a life well lived and keep in her hearts forever! - Celeste.

Francine York  had more than 150 television and film credits and once declared the 1973 cult film “The Doll Squad” her most popular film, but she played everything from an alien to a exotic belly dancer. On “Batman,” she played Lydia Limpet, the hench-woman of the Bookworm (Roddy McDowall). Her credits include guest roles on “Bewitched,” “General Hospital,” “I Dream of Jeannie” and “My Favorite Martian.” She also

appeared in “Tickle Me” with Elvis Presley. Her more recent roles include “Family Man” with Nicolas Cage, “Hot in Cleveland” and “Star Trek: Progeny.”
Born Francine Yerich, she was raised in Aurora, Minn. and Cleveland, where she performed in school plays. She danced as a showgirl in San Francisco before moving to Los Angeles, where she played the Moulin Rouge nightclub. Her screen career was launched when Jerry Lewis cast her in “It’s Only Money,” and she went on to appear in five more Jerry Lewis films.
She appeared in sci fi and cult movies like “Curse of the Swamp People” and “The Centerfold Girls,” often costumed in latex or leather. She told USA Today in a recent interview, “The studios would often hire me because I was attractive, then realized I could act, too!”
(News, Source;PGansky/ElvisInfoNet)

"Take That"s Gary Barlow reveals he wants Elvis Presley back: Gary Barlow (the main half of super-band 'Take That' with Robbie Williams) has revealed he wants to duet with Elvis Presley.
He confirmed “I think Elvis Presley, Elvis was just amazing. I think it reminds me of something I’ve been doing recently that Elvis was like so talented.  Singer, songwriter, actor –  just a total star .
“I’d like to duet with him. He probably wouldn’t want to duet with me though.”
He revealed that Elvis would be the musician he’d like to see ‘back for good’.
With the singer’s increasing involvement in musicals and TV, there are genuine fears he might call it a day after their 25th Anniversary Tour in 2018.
But Gary insists the band will always be active and believes they’ll one day get back together as a five piece – with the estranged Jason Orange back in the fold, as well as Robbie Williams.
(News, Source;NP/ElvisInfoNet)


Latest US Billboard Charts: It must be almost Christmas as Elvis is still in the Billboard charts for week ending 14th January, 2017:
- 'It's Christmas Time' drops from 85 to 199 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart; drops from 53 to 88 on the Top Album Sales Chart and drops from 6 to 19 on the Top Catalog Albums Chart
- 'The Classic Christmas Album' drops from 94 to 119 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart and drops from 5 to 7 on the Country Catalog Albums Chart
- 'Merry Christmas, Love Elvis' drops from 4 to 8 on the Country Catalog Albums Chart
- 'Elvis - Ultimate Christmas' drops from 7 to 19 on the Country Catalog Albums Chart
- 'Elvis - Ultimate Gospel' drops from 9 to 12 on the Country Catalog Albums Chart
- 'The Wonder Of You' drops from 38 to 43 on the Top Rock Albums Chart and remains at 6 on the Classical Albums Chart
- 'If I Can Dream' rises from 17 to 10 on the Classical Albums Chart

- 'Elvis: 30 No.1 Hits' is a re-entry at 194 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart and rises from 13 to 6 on the Country Catalog Albums Chart
- 'Heart and Soul' drops from 17 to 20 on the Country Catalog Albums Chart
- 'He Touched Me The Gospel Music Of Elvis Presley' (Vols.1 and 2) rises from 5 to 3 on the Music Video Sales Chart
Elvis drops from 20 to 45 on the Artist 100 Chart.

Looking at Current Box-Score Concerts (Worldwide Ranking):
at #24 was Elvis In Concert at the Manchester Arena (Nov.24th, 2016) Gross: $513.278 (£414.616). Attendance: 8615 out of 8894.
Elvis In Concert at the First Direct Arena Leeds, and at the SSE Hydro, Glasgow and at the Genting Arena Birmingham were also in the Top 40.
(News, Source;BrianQuinn/ElvisInfoNet)


Thursday 5 January 2017

Elvis' Birthday Celebrations Begin Today at Graceland: The 2017 Graceland annual celebration of Elvis Presley's birthday starts today, January 5, in Memphis. The 40th annual Elvis Birthday Celebration runs through Sunday, January 8, which would have been Presley's 82nd birthday.
For the first time the main events will take place at The Guest House at Graceland, the new resort hotel that opened in October.
Among this year's activities is a Viva Las Vegas sing-along on Thursday at 7 p.m. CT that offers fans the chance to sing tunes from the 1964 Presley film during a screening of the flick. Other events during the four-day bash include Elvis trivia contests, a memorabilia auction, music performances, tours, fan-club get-togethers and much more.
"The Auction at Graceland," a sale of authenticated Presley memorabilia, will be held at The Guest House on Saturday, January 7, at 2 p.m. CT.
At 7:30 p.m. that day at Cannon Center for the Performing Arts in Memphis, a concert dubbed Elvis at the Movies will take place featuring performances of songs from Presley films by singer Terry Mike Jeffrey and the Memphis Symphony Orchestra.
The celebration's final day will feature the traditional Birthday Proclamation Ceremony, which begins at 9:30 a.m. CT on Graceland's north lawn. A number of officials from Graceland and the Memphis area will take part in the event, which will feature the cutting of a birthday cake and a proclamation of "Elvis Presley Day" in Memphis.
Special guest speakers Robin and Gavin Koon will share their memories of co-starring with Elvis in "Follow That Dream," at the Official Graceland Insider's Reception.  Also speaking will be award-winning producer, director, writer Andrew Solt, who has made a number of acclaimed films and television specials about Elvis Presley including the feature

documentary, "This Is Elvis."  Andrew, whose company owns The Ed Sullivan Show library, will be speaking at Graceland on the 60th anniversary of Elvis' third and final appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show. 
Fans who can't attend the ceremony will be able to watch a video of the proceedings later that day on Graceland.com.
Go here to EPE schedule for details and tickets
(News, Source/EPE//ElvisInfoNet)

Happy Birthday To Elvis: Las Vegas is not only celebrating the new E.P Blvd but the Westgate casino also wishes Happy Birthday to the King of Rock & Roll!

Viva Las Vegas fan club President Sue L says - Check out the sign put up yesterday. Isn't this great? Looks even better with the new street name the hotel made happen. The Westgate told me this sign would be up today, so here it is for all of you to see!

 


(News, Source; SueL/ElvisInfoNet)


US Elvis Tribute Birthday Spectacular: If there's one musical artist proven to be recession-proof, politics-proof and truly unifying when it comes to people of all ages, races and cultures, it's that shaky-legged kid from Tupelo, Mississippi.
Elvis Presley, the image, the songs, the very name, transports folks to a simpler time when the nation was united as a people, and kids from coast to coast raced to local record stores to snatch up the latest record by the  rocker.
"Elvis epitomizes a time in our history when a dirt poor sharecropper’s son could grow up to become a king," explains concert promoter of the annual Elvis Tribute Artist Spectacular.
“Quite simply, Elvis Presley was the greatest entertainer of all time, and we celebrate the anniversary of Presley's Jan. 8 birth each year by assembling an amazing collective of performers to recreate the various eras of Presley’s career.
The annual two week traveling Elvis Tribute Artist Spectacular tour kicks off next week, starring internationally-famous Elvis performers Shawn Klush, Ryan Pelton, Cody Ray Slaughter, and Rick Saucedo, who was the first headliner when the tour began 30 years ago. The tour stops at Star Plaza Theatre on Saturday.
The show also hits Skokie's North Shore Center today, Rockford's Coronado Performing Arts Center Friday, and Indianapolis' Pike Performing Arts Center on Jan. 13. The tour also travels to Ohio, New York Utah and Kentucky.
Elvis' original drummer DJ Fontana (heard on all of Presley's records through the 1960s), Mark Blackwood's Blackwood Quartet, and The Sweet Inspirations, all contribute to the Elvis Tribute Artist Spectacular musical performances. They add a sense of authenticity to the mix with their stories about the Elvis they knew.
"The stories and memories they share are wonderful,” said Klush. “DJ was with him from the beginning and The Sweets worked with Elvis from 1969 until June 26, 1977 in Indianapolis for his final concert. Having them perform with us on these shows just as they did with Elvis is phenomenal.”
Full tour and ticket info: elvisbirthdaytribute.com.
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

Burbank Annual Elvis tribute show: Like the honoree himself, the annual Elvis Birthday Bash has seen its ups and downs over the last 31 years.
On Sunday January 8, the 31st edition of the bash will set up at Cody’s Viva Cantina restaurant, also in Burbank. There, a couple dozen mostly L.A.-based roots musicians will pay homage to the King of Rock ’n’ Roll, Elvis Presley, on what would have been his 82nd birthday.
Unlike so many satirical and parody tributes to Presley, performers tapped for the Birthday Bash tend to honor, rather than skewer, him.
“Equally deified and vilified, he was the original cultural warrior, one who embodied our still ongoing struggles over racial division, chastity versus lust". The show will be “in a casual vein — but no spangled jumpsuits.”
That’s always been the case for roots-rock enthusiast, music writer and former record company publicist Fein, who jumped in early to help produce the event started in 1986 by roots-rock musicians Ronnie Mack and James Intveld. It’s now called Art Fein’s Annual Elvis Tribute Show.
The show begins at 4 p.m. proceeds will benefit L.A.’s Midnight Mission.
Full information is available here at the venue’s website
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)


Elvis Birthday Bash, Pittsburgh: Elvis has definitely not left the building according to The Hollywood Theater, Dormont, Pittsburgh: This Sunday, January 8, devotees of the music icon will flock to the historic South Hills movie house to celebrate what would have been Elvis Presley’s 82nd birthday.
There will be a whole lotta shakin’ goin’ on at this birthday bash. Celebrate all things the King, come dressed in your best Tupelo tornado threads (think: guitar-slinging Army sergeant, rockabilly bad boy or 1970s lounge crooner), and practice that swagger as you pose for a keepsake photo with a live Elvis.
The event will feature a special screening of the 1970 concert film, Elvis: That’s The Way It Is. Directed by Denis Sanders, the documentary chronicles the Elvis Summer Festival which took place at the International Hotel in Las Vegas in August of 1970. The fascinating footage follows Elvis’ triumphant return to performing live on stage after a decade-long hiatus. Elvis’ series of concerts in 1969 and 1970 broke box office records and reestablished his status as the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
Documenting the history-making event, Sanders’ feature-length concert film features devoted fans who traveled from all around the globe to attend, and “crosses the footlights, revealing the legendary singer as a man preparing for an emotional career comeback.”
During the electrifying concert, Elvis performs many of his beloved songs, such as “Love Me Tender,” “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Suspicious Minds,” “Don’t Be Cruel,” and many others.
Click here for tickets & info January 8, 7:30—10 p.m.

(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)


Tuesday 3 January 2017
ELVIS - the UK's #5 Top Album of 2016: With 2016 done and dusted, the UK Official Charts Company released its list of the 40 biggest albums of 2016 and unsurprisingly they are primarily comprised of the latest releases by superstar musicians and singers.
However the big surprise is that over 40 years since Elvis Presley entered a recording studio his "new" album is the fifth UK biggest seller of 2016.
Adele of course led the way with her long-awaited album '25', and no other title could come even close. The British superstar’s latest massive album sold just over three-quarters of a million copies in the U.K. throughout 2016. Adele’s third full-length has now sold over three million copies in the singer’s home country alone, which makes it one of just 26 albums in British history to do so.
Behind Adele comes Coldplay’s album 'A Head Full Of Dreams', Michael Ball and Alfie Boe’s 'Together' and Justin Bieber’s 'Purpose'.
Elvis’ most recent orchestral release, The Wonder Of You, which also made it all the way to the No. 1 spot on the albums tally, giving The King a second leader in as many years.
David Bowie’s name appears three times on the full ranking more than any other artist due to the fact that his entire discography was snapped up by millions of fans in the legendary musician’s home country after his death last January. Two other artists, Elvis Presley and Michael Bublé, also managed to place more than just one title on the list, proving themselves to be some of the most popular artists still releasing new collections today.
Elvis' 2015 'If I Can Dream' charted again as #22 best seller.
The UK Top 6 biggest albums of 2016:
1. Adele - 25
2. Coldplay - A Head Full Of Dreams
3. Michael Ball & Alfie Boe - Together
4. Justin Bieber - Purpose
5. Elvis Presley & RPO - The Wonder Of You
6. David Bowie - Blackstar

(News, Source;TOCC/ElvisInfoNet)

'The World Of FTD' OUT NOW: The new deluxe book 'The World Of FTD' is heading out to Elvis dealers today. Publisher Erik Lorentzen apologised to fans saying, "We are all sorry for the delay, but it's nothing we could have done to get it to you before. The printer runs 24 hours a day and they have all tried their very best. Thanks for your patience."
The book was authored and designed by Keith Flynn with input from a large number of other Elvis specialists including EIN's Piers Beagley, EM&HM's Trevor Cajiao, Geoffrey McDonnell, Gordon Minto and many others.
It is 1,200 pages, hardbound three book set, chronicling every release by FTD.The book also features 100s of high-quality photos from the collection Erik Lorentzen
KJ Consulting are proud to publish this Box Set which weighs 8 kilos.

Go here to see the book covers - plus plenty of preview pages - as well as all you need to know about this exciting new book
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

Elvis Presley Way, Las Vegas, now "Elvis Presley Blvd"!: As we noted below in the first story about the new street in Las Vegas being named for Elvis, Viva Las Vegas Fan club President Sue L could not understand why the original name E P Blvd had mysteriously changed to Elvis Presley Way. She then questioned Clark County about Way vs Blvd, and it was immediately verified and corrected! Sadly she did not get to keep the original signs!
She notes that, It was disappointing that there was no fanfare - Elvis deserves that.
The Riviera was fully imploded and destroyed in June. Nice that the street change didn't happen til the Riv was gone.
What a great present to Las Vegas, Elvis fans and to the memory of Elvis Presley!
(News, Source;Sue L/ElvisInfoNet)

Col Parker's Home to become a Car-Wash!: The home previously owned by Col Parker is under contract, and the potential new owner wants to tear it down and build a car wash.
The 80-year-old home was where Colonel Tom Parker lived. It also housed the Elvis Presley Fan Club. The legendary singer would sometimes stay there when he was in Nashville.
“When I was in high school, we used to drive by and look to see if the pink Cadillac was here,” said current owner Steve North. “If it was here, we would know Elvis was off the road and in town.”
North grew up in Madison, not far from Parker’s home. Twenty years ago, North bought the 1215 Gallatin Pike property and turned it into a law office for him and his son.
Now North is retiring and his son, who runs a non-profit organisation needs to sell it.
The house has actually been up for sale for four years, said North. He said he’s gotten few legitimate bites, not even from Graceland.
“I called Graceland and EPE but I don’t think they want to draw away from their Memphis connection.”
North said he finally got an offer from a man who wants to tear the home down and build a car wash.
“It breaks my heart but I’ve got to be realistic,” he said.
If the contract goes through and the Metro Board of Zoning Appeals approves the plan, bulldozers will be out soon.
“I’m going to be here to watch, Parker was a genius, but he was a scoundrel. I doubt he got rid of everything, I want to see what’s hidden in the walls.”
The non-profit group “Historic Nashville” included the Col. Parker home on its 2015 list of Nashville’s “Most Endangered Historic Places.”
The Board of Zoning Appeals meeting is Thursday at 1 p.m.
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

Elvis Fans Pay Up To $1,500 a night to Stay in Graceland Guest House - But with almost No "Elvis"!: - "Elvis Presley fans are alive and well around the world. There are 450 fan clubs, with the biggest ones located in Australia, Canada, Japan, UK and the US. Graceland attracts an average of 600,000 guests annually. It’s the second most visited residence in the country, topped only by the White House. Now these fans have a new hotel in which to stay and play - but with almost no sign of The King!
The Guest House at Graceland is meant to be “subtle Elvis,” explained Gad Risier, one of the managers. EPE spent $90 million on it, sparing no expense when it came to details that would invoke the King without throwing it in visitors’ faces. When guests walk into the lobby the first thing they see is a circular carpet modeled after one of Elvis’ many capes and purple couches with high backs that look like thrones.
Just off the lobby is a hall with a replica of the famous staircase in Graceland that leads to the room in which Elvis passed away.
The lobby lounge bar serves cocktails with names like jailhouse rocks, and the coffee shop next door is titled Shake, Rattle, & Go. Patrons can enjoy their drinks in the lounge where there is live music almost every day of the week or take them just outside where there is a heart-shaped bonfire (It’s called “The Burning Love” fire pit after that hit)  EP’s Bar and Grill, a family-friendly restaurant, has a pool table, because the musician loved playing it, and 13 televisions so guests can watch many stations at once just as he did. - But where is the Elvis Bling?
The Guest House set up a founders program for a select group of lucky fans. For $35,000 this group gets access to VIP events at Graceland and a serene founders lounge at the hotel.
The hotel suites, the largest of which costs $1,500 a night. The largest room is modeled after Presley’s master bedroom in Graceland and has metallic gold and silver finishes and a television above the bed like he had. The Vernon & Glady’s Suite is named after his parents and inspired by his vacation home in Palm Springs. There is even a TCB suite, which stands for “Taking Care of Business.”
Those with standard room get television stations that show Presley’s movies and a live feed of Graceland. They all have touches of purple, the color of royalty, and prints of The King’s outfits.  “True Elvis fans say, ‘Why aren’t there pictures of Elvis?” said Risier. “It’s amazing how many times we hear that.”
- EIN would say the same! Where is Elvis?

(News, Source;Forbes/ElvisInfoNet)

'Elvis Presley: Stories Behind His Songs' New E-Book: BBC Radio Presenter Matt Shepherd (and EIN contributor) is publishing a series of e-books all about Elvis' songs.  
Last week he published exclusive free extracts from future editions of Elvis Presley: Stories Behind His Songs on his facebook page.
Note that Volume two of 'Elvis Presley: Stories Behind his Songs' comes out on Elvis’ birthday
Click here to Facebook to read free extracts
Here's a taste of his thoughts on "A Big Hunk O Love".
The driving song was written by Aaron Schroeder and Sid Wyche. Wyche had been best known for composing the jazz standard "Alright, Okay, You Win".
Whereas Aaron Schroeder was a Rock n' Roll composer through and through, having written hits for many artists but enjoying his biggest success with Elvis Presley. Other tracks Schroeder would co-write included "It's Now or Never" and "Good Luck Charm".
The "Big Hunk O Love" session took place on June 10, 1958 in Nashville, before Elvis headed off to Germany for his National Service. Not only did it create some awesome tunes, it must have been a strange session for Elvis as it was his first ever without Scotty Moore and Bill Black by his side. This marked the first time the musicians hadn't worked with Elvis since his very first recordings for Sun four years earlier. ..

Click here to Facebook to continue reading
Each monthly e-book will tackle around eight songs and will be priced around £1.20 each / US$1.60 so I really hope they represent value for money.
CLICK HERE to AMAZON UK £1.28 > ELVIS PRESLEY: STORIES BEHIND HIS SONGS Volume 1
CLICK HERE to AMAZON USA US$1.60 > ELVIS PRESLEY: STORIES BEHIND HIS SONGS Volume 1
CLICK HERE to AMAZON Australia AU $2.15 ELVIS PRESLEY: STORIES BEHIND HIS SONGS Volume 1
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

Saturday 31 December 2016 - - HAPPY NEW YEAR'S EVE .. Recent news from last week ...

2017 Elvis Birthday Celebrations:  Only five days to go before Graceland's Elvis Birthday Celebrations kick off. For the first time ever Elvis' Birthday Celebration will be held at Graceland's new resort, The Guest House at Graceland
Music fans from around the world will travel to Elvis Presley's Graceland in January 2017 to celebrate the King of Rock 'n' Roll's birthday. Numerous events are scheduled for January 5-8, 2017, including the Elvis Presley Birthday Proclamation Ceremony on Sunday, January 8 at 9:30 a.m. Central Time, featuring cake cutting ceremony on the front lawn of Graceland in Memphis.
Special guest speakers Robin and Gavin Koon will share their memories of co-starring with Elvis in "Follow That Dream," at the Official Graceland Insider's Reception.  Also speaking will be award-winning producer, director, writer Andrew Solt, who has made a number of acclaimed films and television specials about Elvis Presley including the feature documentary, "This Is Elvis."  Andrew, whose company owns The Ed Sullivan Show library, will be speaking at Graceland on the 60th anniversary of Elvis' third and final appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show.  In addition to the Proclamation Ceremony, other events include live music, wine tasting, Archives Show and Tell, the Fan Club President's Event, Club Elvis and The Auction at Graceland.

Go here to EPE schedule for details and tickets

(News, Source/EPE//ElvisInfoNet)


ABOUT TIME! ELVIS added to Mississippi Hall of Fame: A great cartoon from the Mississippi Clarion-Ledger, who could imagine that Elvis wasn't in the Mississippi Hall Of Fame already! As announced 2 weeks ago, the board of the state Department of Archives and History met this month and selected the inductees: Evelyn Gandy, the first woman elected lieutenant governor of the state; Dr. James Hardy, who was a transplant surgeon; former state Rep. Aaron Henry, who was a civil-rights activist; Ida B. Wells, a journalist and women's rights advocate plus one Elvis Presley.
Those chosen can be either native-born Mississippians or people who moved to the state. Hall of Fame portraits hang in the Senate chamber of the Old Capitol in downtown Jackson.

With thanks to EIN's good friend Joan Gansky
(News, Source;JG/ElvisInfoNet)


40 Years Ago Today - Elvis last "GREAT" concert - 'Final Countdown To Midnight' NYE 1976: What a shame this great DVD/CD set looking in detail at Elvis' last ever New Year's Eve concert has not been released officially - The deluxe 2CD/DVD set released by Backdraft label is the ultimate look at Elvis' 1976 New Year's Eve performance. Previously available via CDs with peak-audio distortion and on DVD/VHS with low quality fan-footage, back in 2014 Backdraft published a 106-page book plus remastered high-quality audio and incredible DVD featuring multi-camera angles. It had to be one of the essential Elvis releases of 2014.

There is no doubt that Elvis’ final New Year’s Eve concert was certainly his last "Great" performance of his life. The nearly COMPLETE concert video which premieres to the world here will attest to the above statement. This DVD debuts newly discovered films, some of which have been transferred in High Definition and are positively stunning! The rich, vibrant colours provide a truly novel viewing experience.

The 106 page book boasts many rare and unpublished photos, detailed information about the show and an eyewitness text! The double CD set is also complete (unlike the edited FTD 2003 official release).

Go here - EIN's Piers Beagley provides an in-depth review of this amazing deluxe box-set.

(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)


Petula Clark turned down a date with Elvis: UK pop-legend Petula Clark last week revealed (yet again) how she once turned down the chance of a date with Elvis.
The 84-year-old, best known for her "easy listening" ballads such as Downtown, said she caught the King of rock and roll's eye in the 1960s.
Speaking on Good Morning Britain she told how Presley tried to chat up her when she and fellow singer Karen Carpenter met him in Las Vegas.
Asked whether it was true she snubbed The King, she added: "Yes I did. There's no more to say on that."
Petula once said of the encounter: "The first time I met him he was gorgeous. Then Karen and I went to see him in Vegas. "We went backstage and after 20 minutes I said, Maybe we should go'.
Elvis was making a play for both of us so we left. It was flattering but I shuffled out dragging Karen behind me, saying we had other things to do. He was very amused by that. It was probably the first time anyone had ever turned him down."
The British singer, who has sold more than 68 million records in a career spanning seven decades, was also asked to star in an Elvis film.
Again, she refused, this time because her husband, Claude Wolfe, did not want her to be one of the King's leading ladies.
Petula said: "I was asked to star in Paradise Hawaiian Style. My husband turned it down. Maybe he didn't want me on a beach blanket with Elvis. At the time I didn't even know about it."
Mentioning Elvis is a good way to get publicity - this time it was to promote her 45th studio album.
While the UK tabloids ran the "New" story once again - EIN posted the same story over a decade ago (here)
- the above photo of Elvis with Petula Clark and Karen Carpenter is a clever but well-known fake.
(News, Source;UKTabloids/ElvisInfoNet)

The case of the Elvis Presley-loving Grimes sisters' murders remains cold: Sixty years ago, Barbara and Patricia Grimes were a couple of ordinary teenage girls, addicted to the music of the swivel-hipped heartthrob who was driving women wild all over the country.
On Dec. 28, 1956, the Chicago sisters begged their mother to let them go on a short bus trip to see their idol in "Love Me Tender," Elvis Presley's first movie.
Within days, Mr. Rock 'n' Roll himself would send a personal message to the star-struck sisters.
"If you are good Presley fans, you'll go home and ease your mother's worries," the singer pleaded.

Unfortunately, Barbara, 15, and Patricia, 13, would never know they had received this singular honor. By the time Presley issued his appeal, the girls were already dead.
About a month after Barbara and Patricia set off to on their movie excursion, a construction worker driving along a deserted
road near Willow Springs, Ill., noticed "these flesh-coloured things" in a ditch. They were the frozen remains of the Grimes girls.
The discovery put an end to one of the biggest missing person investigations in the history of the city.
Their mother, Loretta, said she had sent them off that evening with instructions to be home before midnight. A neighbour said she and her 6-year-old sister sat with the girls in the theater.
Several people recalled seeing them after the movie was over, but nothing was certain. They had been spotted driving in a maroon car with two men, on a bus bound for Nashville, hanging around with sailors, in filling stations, hotels and dance halls. A Milwaukee mental patient sent ransom notes. Memphis police went on alert, just in case the sisters had decided to make a pilgrimage to Presley's hometown. Rumors swirled that in addition to the movie, the girls' agenda that night included wild drinking and trysts with secret lovers.
This week marks six decades since their disappearance and many of the players, from Elvis Presley on, are long gone.
But some people still hold onto the hope there may someday be closure.
Ray Johnson, a retired criminal investigator and true-crime historian and author, became interested in the sisters when he was gathering ghost stories for his 2011 book, "Chicago's Haunt Detective." Not surprisingly, there are some eerie local legends connected with the Grimes girls, including sounds of doors slamming and bodies being dumped from an invisible ghost car on the road where the victims were found.
Click here to the Daily News to read the full and tragic story
(News, Source;NP/ElvisInfoNet)

King Creole' Starring Elvis Presley New EPE Podcast: You can check out the latest episode of EPE's podcast, Starring Elvis Presley! EPE are going to cover all of Elvis' movies on the podcast, and on this episode, we're discussing "King Creole."
EPE's' Libby Perry and Sheena Barnett discuss the movie's plot and Elvis' role in the film, and share a few fun movie facts.
This episode also features an interview with Elvis' "King Creole" co-star, Jan Shepard.


CLICK HERE to EPE to listen (audio podcast only)

 

 


(News, Source;EPE/ElvisInfoNet)


Latest US Billboard Charts: It must be Christmas as Elvis is back in the Billboard charts for week ending 7th January, 2017:
- 'It's Christmas Time' drops from 81 to 85 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart; drops from 47 to 53 on the Top Album Sales Chart selling 12,435 last week; remains at 6 on the Catalog Albums Chart and rises from 17 to 12 on the Holiday Albums Chart
- 'The Classic Christmas Album' drops from 92 to 94 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart; is 143 on the Top Album Sales Chart selling 6,542 last week; drops from 25 to 28 on the Catalog Albums Chart; drops from 4 to 5 on the Country Catalog Albums Chart and rises from 38 to 31 on the Holiday Albums Chart.
- 'Merry Christmas, Love Elvis' drops from 167 to 192 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart; is 109 on the Top Album Sales Chart selling 6,711 last week; drops from 18 to 25 on the Catalog Albums Chart; rises from 33 to 30 on the Holiday Albums Chart and drops from 3 to 4 on the Country Catalog Albums Chart
- 'Elvis - Ultimate Christmas' drops from 42 to 50 on the Catalog Albums Chart; rises from 8 to 7 on the Country Catalog Albums Chart and is a re-entry at 50 on the Holiday Albums Chart
- 'Ultimate Elvis' drops from 138 to 161 on the Top Album Sales Chart selling 5,074 last week.
- 'Elvis - Ultimate Gospel' rises from 15 to 9 on the Country Catalog Albums Chart and is 183 on the Top Album Sales Chart selling 4,385 last week
- 'The Wonder Of You' drops from 29 to 38 on the Top Rock Albums Chart and from 6 to 7 on the Classical Albums Chart
- 'If I Can Dream' is a re-entry at 17 on the Classical Albums Chart
- 'Elvis: 30 No.1 Hits' is a re-entry at 13 on the Country Catalog Albums Chart
- 'Heart and Soul' is a re-entry at 17 on the Country Catalog Albums Chart
- 'Blue Christmas (single) drops from 15 to 16 on the Holiday 100 Chart; drops from 18 to 21 on the Holiday Digital Song Sales Chart; down 11 to 12 on the Holiday Streaming Chart; rises from 27 to 24 on the Holiday Airplay Chart; up 18 to 14 on the Rock Digital Song Sales Chart; is a re-entry at 19 on the Hot 100 Recurrent Chart; up 6 to 5 on the Country Streaming Songs Chart and remains at 5 on the Rock Streaming Songs Chart
- 'Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane)(single) drops from 36 to 38 on the Holiday 100 Chart; rises from 26 to 23 on the Holiday Streaming Songs Chart; rises from 9 to 8 on the Country Streaming Songs Chart and drops from 11 to 12 on the Rock Streaming Songs Chart
- 'Silent Night' is a new-entry at 19 on the Country Streaming Songs Chart
- 'He Touched Me The Gospel Music Of Elvis Presley' drops from 4 to 5 on the Music Video Sales Chart
- Elvis rises from 23 to 20 on the Artist 100 Chart.
(News, Source;BrianQuinn/ElvisInfoNet)

Helene Fischer and Elvis Presley TV Duet:  There was an initial idea that the Helene Fischer and Elvis Presley "Wonder Of You" duet, to be performed on her regular Christmas show on German TV, would be a similar "hologram" performance as seen back in 2007 on American Idol with Celine Dion. In the end however the duet was a simple live performance from Helene Fischer with Elvis projected onto a screen.
Despite its simplicity, the design was surprisingly beautiful and emotional.
Priscilla was showcased in the TV audience.


CLICK HERE to YouTube for the video

While I find her voice to "pure" for the emotion of the song the live version certainly works better than the CD version.

See EIN Review of 'The Wonder Of You' here. Send us your comments.
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)


Riviera Blvd, Las Vegas, now Elvis Presley Way: Despite the failure of the Westgate Casino Elvis exhibition, Las Vegas has created something positive with the new naming of Elvis Presley Way.
Viva Las Vegas Fan club President Sue L tells EIN, "IT'S OFFICIAL" as of December 24, 2016.
She notes that, It was disappointing that there was no fanfare - Elvis deserves that.
The other mystery: the official documents said EP Blvd, somewhere it changed back to Elvis Presley Way.
Originally announced Feb 28 2016. Credit due to Mr Siegel, owner of Westgate, who began the process in April 2015.
The Riviera was fully imploded and destroyed in June. Nice that the street change didn't happen til the Riv was gone.
What a great present to Las Vegas, Elvis fans and to the memory of Elvis Presley!
(News, Source;Sue L/ElvisInfoNet)


2016 EPE Presidents' Christmas CD:  The annual Elvis Fan Club President's EPE Christmas CD for 2016 has been released. This year the EP is entitled "Elvis Sings" ..


The tracklisting is
1. Santa Claus Is Back In Town
2. Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane)
3. Santa Bring My Baby Back (To Me)


Nothing particularly exciting - but a nice collectable.
Unfortunately our copy hasn't arrived in Australia as yet (it is usually a couple of days late) so thanks to Elvis Express for the photo.

 

(News, Source;ElvisExpress/ElvisInfoNet)


Sunday 25 December 2016..................... MERRY, MERRY CHRISTMAS BABY. . . . .

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

If Everyday Was Like Christmas
(words & music by Red West)

I hear a choir
Singing sweetly somewhere
And a glow fills my heart
I'm in peace with the world
As the sound of their singing fills the air

Oh why can't every day be like Christmas
Why can't that feeling go on endlessly
For if everyday could be just like Christmas
What a wonderful world this would be

I hear a child
Telling Santa what to bring
And the smile upon his tiny face
Is worth more to me than anything

Oh why can't every day be like Christmas
Why can't that feeling go on endlessly
....
 
Merry Christmas everybody! 



George Michael - Dead at 53: The shocking news has been announced that pop-superstar George Michael died in his sleep at 1.30am Christmas morning.
Reports are that "he passed away peacefully at home" in Oxfordshire UK. The Police say there were no suspicious circumstances.
His talents as a singer, songwriter and music producer made George Michael one of the world's biggest-selling artists.
Blessed with good looks and a fine singing voice, his stage presence made him a favourite on the live concert circuit as he matured from teen idol to long term stardom.
Excluding his Wham! hits, Michael scored seven number one singles in the UK with songs including 'Careless Whisper' and 'Faith' and won three Brit Awards and two Grammys.
Sir Elton John has posted "I am in deep shock. I have lost a beloved friend - the kindest, most generous soul and a brilliant artist. My heart goes out to his family and all of his fans."
In George Michael's "Faith" video he dressed himself to look like a leather-clad hip-swiveling Elvis, while in 2005 George Michael released the song "John and Elvis Are dead"  which described the unfairness where some of the best things in life are taken away from us far too early. Such as John Lennon, Marvin Gaye and Elvis.
"It stayed with me, it keeps messing with my head
He said, "If Jesus Christ is alive and well

And how come John and Elvis are dead?"
I said, if Jesus Christ is gonna save us from ourselves
Then, how come peace, love and Elvis are dead?"

RIP George Michael - June 25, 1963 > December 25, 2016,
"If Jesus Christ is alive and well, how come John and Elvis and Marvin - and George Michael are dead?"
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

EIN exclusives and News from earlier in December . . .

New Book for 2017 - 'Elvis In Person - One Night in Toronto April 2, 1957': A new book due to be released in April 2017 from Paul Sweeney, Jean-Marc Carisse and Erik Lorentzen.

Author Paul Sweeney comments, "Jean-Marc and I have been working hard on this book since March of 2016 in preparation for its April 2017 release. There are over 300 photos from before, during and after the two shows from the John Sebert Collection at Library & Archives Canada. I was blown away when I first set eyes on them earlier this year, and you know me, the candid photos really caught my eye, but you'll have to wait and see for yourselves.
In the meantime, enjoy the ad and I'll keep you posted as we progress towards April."

 


More info soon.

 

 

(News, Source;Erik Lorentzen)


'The World Of FTD' Delayed: Despite publisher Erik Lorentzen's promise of a release before Christmas, the new 'The World Of FTD' publication has been delayed due to an unfortunate error at the printers. Rather than publish the books with a print mistake Erik Lorentzen is making sure that the fault is corrected before being sent out. He apologises to fans but knows the decision is the right one for collectors.
The book was authored and designed by Keith Flynn with input from a large number of other Elvis specialists including EIN's Piers Beagley, EM&HM's Trevor Cajiao, Geoffrey McDonnell, Gordon Minto and many others.
It is 1,200 pages, hardbound three book set, chronicling every release by FTD.The book also features 100s of high-quality photos from the collection Erik Lorentzen
KJ Consulting are proud to publish this Box Set which weighs 8 kilos.
Go here to see the book covers - plus plenty of preview pages - as well as all you need to know about this exciting new book
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

'Viva Las Vegas' Australia Elvis Festival countdown is on: It's only 20 more sleeps until the start of the 2017 Australian Parkes Elvis Festival, so get those jumpsuits preened, sequins shined, clean those sunglasses and make your way to Parkes, Australia  to set your soul on fire!
The Parkes Elvis Festival is held every January in Parkes, Central NSW Australia. The event is held during the second week of January, coinciding with Elvis Presley's birthday.
It'll be a swingin' time as the Festival celebrates its 25th Anniversary with a Viva Las Vegas theme. There will be more than 120 events across five days from 11 - 15 January.
The program is jam-packed with leading UK Elvis tribute artist Pete Storm and US Elvis tribute artist Jake Rowley guest starring in the special doubleheader 2017 Feature Concert Series. They will perform four high-octane shows showcasing the best of The King.
At the 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner and Show. MC Greg Page will lead you through a night to remember, with Festival favourite Mark Andrew paying tribute to The King in this dynamic show.
The Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest, with the best Elvis performers in Australia and New Zealand battling it out are on Friday 13 January and the Final on Saturday 14 January
 Click here to the Festival website for full program details.
(News, Source;ElvisFestival/ElvisInfoNet)

'A Vegas Fling With The King' CD Review: Elvis' 1973 February Las Vegas season has a reputation for being a rather lackluster come-down after the truly stunning success of the Aloha shows just two weeks beforehand.
There is no doubt that Elvis should have had a welcome relax and a break after performing such a record breaking world-wide event. Instead, Col Parker shoved him straight back into the old-routine of playing to the all-too-familiar casino-crowd. Elvis had a right to be uninspired.
However recent releases such as Straight Arrow's audience-recorded double-pack of Elvis' concerts from February 12th 1973 capture him in better than expected form...
In fact Elvis was on great form this night riding high from his recent ALOHA concerts. The Dinner Show is very worthy with more bass apparent than the late show and the TCB band is HOT!
Go here as EIN contributor David Tinson checks out this new Straight Arrow release....
(CD Reviews, Source;DavidTinson/ElvisInfoNet)


'Sun Records' TV Series Great Promo: The new TV series starring Chad Michael Murray as Sun Records founder Sam Phillips starts Feb23 at 10pm US ET. on the CMT channel.
Thursday nights are about to get even hotter on CMT, the heart-pumping teaser features a young Elvis Presley (Drake Milligan) and Johnny Cash (Kevin Fonteyne) on guitars, Jerry Lee Lewis (Christian Lees) jamming out on the piano, and Sun Records founder Sam Phillips (Chad Michael Murray) in the studio demanding to hear something no one’s every heard before: rock ‘n’ roll!
Set in Memphis during the tumultuous early days of the civil rights movement, Sun Records tells the untold story of nothing less than the birth of rock ‘n’ roll. Guided by Sam Phillips, young musicians like Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis combined the styles of hillbilly country with the 1950s R&B sound created
by artists like Muddy Waters, B.B. King, Fats Domino and Ike Turner and changed the course of music forever. The series chronicles these young artists’ often jarring and sudden meteoric rise to fame in the face of sweeping political change and social unrest.
Click here to YouTube for the short but fabulous promo
No word yet on what other channels will carry the series world-wide.
(News, Source;CMT/ElvisInfoNet)

Grammy for 'Jailhouse Rock': Elvis' iconic “Jailhouse Rock” has been chosen as the song to make its way into the Grammy Hall of Fame because of the enormous popularity it gained at the time of its release. Moreover, the Recording Academy believes that Elvis’ song will add value to their diverse collection of popular songs that can be truly considered as gems. According to Taste of Country, Neil Portnow, the President of the Recording Academy, spoke about how Elvis’s “Jailhouse Rock” proves to be culturally significant.
“The Grammy Hall of Fame represents all genres of music. Memorable and inspiring, these recordings are proudly added to our growing catalog and are an integral part of our musical, social and cultural history.”
The song was featured in 1957’s Jailhouse Rock, arguably Elvis’s most popular movie, and topped several of Billboard’s charts.
Elvis’s on-screen persona made him instantly famous, and he earned his reputation as the King of Rock and Roll.
Previously, Rolling Stone magazine had placed Elvis’ “Jailhouse Rock” amongst the Top 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, and it has also been placed in Rock and Roll’s Hall of Fame for being amongst the 500 songs that helped to shape the history of Rock and Roll.
(News, Source/SM/ElvisInfoNet)

'Welcome Home Elvis' good-quality soundtrack found: 56 years after the first broadcast of Sinatra's "Welcome Home Elvis" show and 41 years after ABC is said to have discarded the original master videotape, a high-quality source of the soundtrack for the Frank Sinatra-hosted 1960 Timex special has finally been located.
The special, officially titled "It's Nice to Go Traveling", was Sinatra's last for the network, and was conceived as a vehicle to welcome home Elvis Presley, who was returning from Germany, after his separation from the service. Reviews of the show were generally positive, and the highlight of the program was the once-in-a-lifetime pairing of the The Chairman of the Board and The King, as they performed a duet of each other's hits-- "Love Me Tender" and "Witchcraft."
These important performances by Elvis have been released officially over the years but always in sub-standard audio quality.
Two different kinescopes were made before the master tape was wiped but both had technical faults and the only surviving record of the broadcast are very low-quality copies of those films.
While many of the video issues can be solved with a professional transfer of a print of the "good" kinescope, and the application of LiveFeed Video Imaging, the
indifferent quality of the surviving audio has been a sticking point. And having now heard one, I can confidently state that this program is vastly helped by having a high-fidelity soundtrack source, which allows everyone to experience the nuances of each singer's vocalizations and Nelson Riddle's marvelous arrangements.
There was no soundtrack recording released at the time the program was broadcast, and indeed, the idea of coordinating a deal that included Col. Tom Parker, Frank Sinatra's Hobart Productions, Capitol Records and RCA Records seems mind-boggling.
However, the discovery of over 45 minutes of the program's soundtrack on a double-sided 12" acetate have now made a full restoration of the program possible - These were auctioned on Ebay back in November and sold for US$3,500.
In addition to the video program itself, the soundtrack find also adds two new song masters to both Elvis' discography (his live-in-the-studio performance of "Fame & Fortune" and "Stuck on You") and Frank's holdings (his solo versions of "Witchcraft" and "Gone With the Wind") as well as the historic duet between the two singing legends. Presumably, once all of the details are worked out between the various corporate concerns, a separate CD version of the soundtrack would also be contemplated.
EIN thanks Kevin Segura for the info.
(News, Source;HomeTheatreForum/FECC/ElvisInfoNet)

CMT new Sam Phillips TV series 'Sun Records': CMT in the US has announced that 'Sun Records' an original 8-part series about the early days of rock & roll will debut on the cable network Thursday, February 23rd
Based on the Tony Award-winning musical Million Dollar Quartet, about the historic recording sessions featuring Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins, Sun Records focuses on Sun founder and producer Sam Phillips. Played by Chad Michael Murray, Sam Phillips shapes the young musicians whose pioneering blend of country, R&B and blues gave rise to a cultural phenomenon still resonating 60 years after the one-off session on December 4th, 1956.
The series also explores the influential sound created by artists including Muddy Waters, B.B. King, Fats Domino and Ike Turner, set against a backdrop of unprecedented political change and social unrest.
Newcomer Drake Milligan stars as the young Presley, with Billy Gardell as Colonel Tom Parker. Kevin Fonteyne plays Cash, along with Christian Lees as the piano-playing Lewis and Dustin Ingram as Perkins.
(News, Source;CMT/ElvisInfoNet)


'Just Pretend'  composers get Gold Disc in UK: 'Just Pretend'  composer and PRS chairman Guy Fletcher has been awarded a Gold Disc for his songwriting work on the new Elvis Presley and Royal Philharmonic Orchestra album The Wonder of You. PRS is the publishing royalties collection society for writers and publishers in the UK
Fletcher (centre) and long-term writing partner Doug Flett (right) received the accolades for their song Just Pretend late last week.
The Wonder of You was released on 21 October, going straight in at number one on the UK Albums Chart.
It has since been riding high for seven weeks, with sales now in excess of 100,000 – hence the UK Gold Disc.
The album was recorded at Abbey Road Studios by producers Don Reedman (left) and Nick Patrick.
Just Pretend features twice on the set, with award-winning German artist Helene Fischer singing alongside Elvis’ original take for a reworking of the song.
Fletcher noted ‘I was aware that the album had achieved considerable sales but I had absolutely no idea it merited a Gold Disc. Any writer would be thrilled, as I was. It was such a lovely surprise.’
(News, Source;PRS/ElvisInfoNet)

Ray Connolly’s 'Being Elvis' Review: The AU has recently published their review of Ray Connolly’s 'Being Elvis: A Lonely Life' noting that it is an excellent, though tragic, examination of the price of fame.
They note, "On the surface, Elvis Presley seemed to have it all. Money, gold records, women, incredible fame. Yet underneath was a lonely man, addicted to prescription drugs and terrified that, at any moment, it might all be taken away from him. In Being Elvis: A Lonely Life, music journalist and screenwriter Ray Connolly steps into the role of biographer, following the life of a Tupelo dreamer, who achieved a level of fame and notoriety never seen before, and perhaps never seen since.
It’s a compelling picture that Connolly paints. Bolstering his portrait of the King with anecdotes from Presley’s lengthy career in the spotlight, he builds an image of a man isolated by his own naiveté. Connolly traces the insecurities, that would eventually cripple Presley, back to a financially hard upbringing in Tupelo. It was a period that would both inspire Presley to do the best he could for his family, but also leave him unable to fully embrace the greatness that beckoned. Locking himself away in Graceland with his slimming pill addicted mother and a father that never forgot their poor beginnings, relying heavily on the almost Machiavellian Colonel Tom Parker, and bouncing from girl to girl, there’s a sense that Elvis always felt like things could end at any time – a fair assumption given the fickle nature of fame.
Perhaps because we all know how it ends, it’s those early years that make for the hardest reading. The decisions Elvis makes, particularly in allowing himself to be taken under the wing of Parker, and the fight to be taken seriously he faces as a rock and roll singer and a wannabe actor, all seem to be omens of what’s still to come for the young man. It was the beginning of a life that Connolly suggests he

was ill-equipped to deal with; indeed, because the world’s response to him was unlike anything ever seen before, it was impossible for him to be prepared.
Connolly’s music journalist chops are well exercised here, not only by giving him a solid base in music history to work from, but also giving him access to some of the iconic artists that were inspired by Presley. Beginning with the recounting of a conversation with Bob Dylan, that went from awkward interview to a meeting of Elvis enthusiasts, it’s these nods to other great names that help the reader imagine the level of isolating fame that Presley achieved.
The book is a excellent, though tragic, insight into a figure that we may think we recognise, but was in fact just an image projected and distorted by a fame that he could not control. Isolated and increasingly paranoid, Elvis’ final days, as presented by Connolly, seem to be a natural consequence of what came before, the sad outcome of a man who seemed to struggle to believe his own hype, took the critics to heart, and could never settle comfortably into the role of the most famous person on earth – after all, who could?

Go here for their full review  - EIN will publish our own review soon.
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

Tom Moffatt, Hawaii DJ and Elvis friend Has Died: Tom Moffatt one of Hawaii’s most influential figures in the entertainment industry, has died. He passed away at his home Monday night at the age of 85 after battling prostate cancer.
Affectionately known as “Uncle Tom,” Moffatt lived a rich life in public that spanned over five decades. Moffatt was born in Detroit but moved to Hawaii in 1950. He first made his name as a radio disc jockey and personality during the 1950s and ’60s before becoming a noted concert and special events promoter through the remainder of his life.
Moffatt was part of Hawaii radio history and also an integral part of Hawaii’s rock ‘n’ roll history as a member of KPOI’s “Poi Boys,” as well as promoting a string of popular music showcases at the old Civic Auditorium in the late 1950s.
Of all the celebrities with whom Moffatt is affiliated, his fans most closely associate him with Elvis Presley. It was Moffatt who first played an Elvis record on-air, and it was Moffatt who introduced him in his first Hawaii concert in 1957.
Moffatt would go on to assist Elvis’ colorful manager Tom Parker in all of Elvis’ appearances in Hawaii, from Presley’s first concert following his discharge from the Army at Bloch Arena,
Pearl Harbor as a benefit for the Arizona Memorial, to his then-innovative satellite telecast “Elvis Live From Hawaii,” beamed from the Honolulu International Center on Jan. 14, 1973.
In a 1996 interview, Moffatt remembered the first time he brought Elvis to Hawaii. “From the time Elvis arrived in Hawaii, the aloha he felt from the people was very special. He loved the people. He loved Hawaii.”
Moffatt continued to be on the radio late in life until just two months ago. Director Adam Carr said it best: “He was bigger than life. The guy knew Elvis, you know what I mean? He knew Elvis Presley!”
“I remember sitting close by him at Elvis’ concert in Hawaii — two legends,” said a radio caller. “I miss him. I’m going to be crying for days like I did when Elvis passed.”
Moffatt’s Hawaii concert promotions over the decades reads like a who’s who of top-notch pop and rock music talent, from Sam Cooke, Buddy Holly, the Beach Boys, the Grateful Dead, Stevie Wonder, Aerosmith, Frank Sinatra, the Rolling Stones, Elton John, Led Zeppelin, The Who, Michael Jackson and many more.
(News, Source;KHON/ElvisInfoNet)

ALTERNATE “The Wonder of You” Kate Moss Video: The much-anticipated Kate Moss video to promote “The Wonder of You” as the new Christmas single of Elvis with the RPO has been released.
The black-and-white video sees Moss singing along to Presley’s song with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
EIN totally understands why and what the SONY marketing team are trying to do with the new video and she looks GREAT.
But if you are 'new' to Elvis, or don't know who he is ..
a) Why is Kate Moss dressed in that strange leather outfit and in a random studio?
b) Why is she miming very badly to a very old sounding song by "some bloke"?
All they needed to do to reference the video was
a) Morph between ELVIS in leather suit to KATE in leather suit... easy!! (or, damn it, just have her walk in front of a HUGE picture of Elvis in the Comeback suit)
b) At the end fade from Kate Moss to ELVIS in "Wonder Of You" TTWII glory.
That would explain
1) WHAT she is singing about,  (ie 'Wonder of you' is about Elvis & Kate)
2) WHO she is singing to
3) WHY it looks like bad karaoke
4) WHO is actually singing the song (for the potential "new" audience).
Luckily there is an ALTERNATE version of the video that DOES feature Elvis! - Click here to YouTube
(News, Source;BQ-ElvisInfoNet)

'The Wonder Of You' Elvis With The RPO 'VINYL' Is UK Number One! : Only out last week 'The Wonder Of You: Elvis Presley With The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra' as a double Vinyl set for album collectors has gone straight in at Number One on the UK Official Vinyl Album chart.

This continues the big success of the new release where the CD alreday go to Number 1 in the CD charts. The Deluxe release is also out - see details below.

Out Now 'The Wonder Of You: Elvis Presley With The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra' as a double Vinyl set for album collectors.
This set on glorious VINYL presents the iconic artist’s unmistakable voice and most dramatic original performances augmented with lush new orchestral accompaniment. Recorded at Abbey Road Studios in London with acclaimed producers Don Reedman and Nick Patrick, the album spans a variety of musical styles that Elvis embraced, from rock and gospel to country and ballads.
The VINYL set features two 150 gram LPs in a Gatefold package - Click here to Amazon to BUY >>
From Amazon UK for only £18.99
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
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Elvis Birthday Auction 2017: Once again Graceland Auctions are gearing up for Elvis' 2017 birthday celebrations. EPE note that "an amazing array of artifacts from both Elvis' theatrical and musical careers" are up for offer. The upcoming January 7 live "Auction at Graceland" event will also be in held in the new theater at the new Guest House at Graceland.
With a plethora of authenticated artifacts to offer, they hope that you will find a treasure or two to interest you. The auction includes the collection of "Rockin" Robin Roseaaen, whose nickname was given to her by Elvis himself, rings gifted by Elvis to Charlie Hodge, film-worn boxing gloves from Kid Galahad, personal clothing and much more! There is something for each and every collector!
Auction highlights include:
Elvis Owned Gold and Diamond Lion Head Ring Gifted to Charlie Hodge, Estimate $10,000-15,000
Elvis Owned 1911 $2 1/2 Indian Head Gold Coin Ring Gifted to Charlie Hodge, Estimate $10,000-15,000
1970s Elvis Union 76 Gas Gold Card, Estimate $5,000-7,000
Elvis and Priscilla Signed Divorce Document, Estimate $5,000-7,000
1962 Elvis Film-Worn Boxing Gloves from "Kid Galahad" - Purchased from a Member of the Mirisch Family, Estimate $5,000-10,000
1962 "Kid Galahad" Sweater, Worn by Elvis Co-Star Joan Blackman - Purchased from a Member of the Mirisch Family, Estimate $5,000-7,000
Elvis Owned and Used Colt "Police Positive Special" .32 Caliber Pistol Gifted to Bodyguard Richard Grob, Estimate $4,000-6,000
Elvis Blue Suede Jacket, Estimate $3,000-5,000
1971 Elvis 4th Degree Black Belt Card with Letter from Ed Parker and Elvis' Kenpo Karate Handbook - Estimate $3,000-4,000
(News, Source;EPE/ElvisInfoNet)


'Spirit Of Jackson, MS' new FTD OUT NOW: The FTD release planned for December, featuring two soundboard recordings from the Jackson, State Fair Coliseum on June 9th 1975 and a year later September 5th 1976 - is OUT NOW and at dealers.
On May 5th 1975, Elvis performed a concert in aid of the McComb tornado victims at the State Fair Coliseum, Jackson, Mississippi. Elvis raised $108, 860 to help residents who were affected by the devastation. The audio for this show is damaged beyond repair. However 'Spirit Of Jackson, MS' includes two other shows from the State Fair Coliseum. Just over a month after the charity show, Elvis performed in Jackson again and this show is featured on Disc 2. Disc 1 is from September 1976. Spirit Of Jackson, MS is a 2-CD digipack.
Tracklist CD1: 1) Also Sprach Zarathustra 2) See See Rider, 3) I Got A Woman / Amen 4) Love Me 5) Fairytale 6) You Gave Me A Mountain 7) All Shook Up 8) (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear / Don’t Be Cruel 9) And I Love You So 10) Jailhouse Rock 11) Fever 12) America The Beautiful 13) Introductions a) Early Mornin’ Rain b) What’d I Say c) Johnny B. Goode 14) Love Letters 15) Hurt  16) Hound Dog 17) Danny Boy – sung by Sherrill Nielsen 18) That’s All Right 19) Blue Christmas 20) How Great Thou Art 20) Can’t Help Falling In Love 21) Closing Vamp
Go to 'FTD/SONY News 2016' for full tracklists & details
(News, Source;FTD/ElvisInfoNet)

Richard Sterban Talks Elvis: Before Richard Sterban (left in photo) joined the Oak Ridge Boys, he was a member of J.D. Sumner and the Stamps.
Sterban recalls, "Elvis was great. There's no question about it. I recorded with Elvis. I know how he recorded. I was on a record called "Burning Love" Elvis recorded like he performed on stage. He didn't get in a vocal booth. He had the microphone in his hand and he walked around the studio. He was an engineer's nightmare.
He'd just sing through a song a couple times. Then he was ready to move on," he said. "What you got was what you got. But when you listen to his records, you realize how good he was. He basically was never off pitch. He was on it every time."
Working with Sumner and the Stamps was a huge honor for the singer, who recalls his first meeting with Elvis.
"That was an amazing experience. We were in Minneapolis. It was our very first tour together, and we were scheduled to have a rehearsal. We were in the hotel - the Stamps, the Sweet Inspirations, and the TCB Band. We heard this commotion outside the door of people talking, and sure enough, it was Elvis. He comes walking in the room, and I thought 'Wow, I think I understand why he is the biggest star in the entire world.' He went over and hugged JD, then JD started to introduce us. Elvis said 'You don't have to introduce us. I know all of these guys."

Sterban worked with the Stamps for a couple of years, until he got word that Noel Fox, the current bass singer for the Oaks, was leaving. That was 1972, and he's been an Oak Ridge Boy ever since, and he doesn't see an end to that in the foreseeable future, as the group still has the same excitement and energy as always.
The time with Presley, obviously, remains a highlight of Sterban's career, even if it was fairly short part of his musical life. "For a year and a half, I had the opportunity to sing with the King, Elvis. At that point, he was probably the biggest star in the world."
(News, Source;SM/ElvisInfoNet)

Australia HOBART Elvis & Orchestra Concert - CANCELLED: While the UK part of the new Elvis & RPO tour is getting rave reviews, now the Tasmanian, HOBART concert has also been "cancelled". The promoter explained to EIN that "it was advertised fully but sadly it never sold like Adelaide, Brisbane, Perth, Melbourne, and Sydney. We really need to do the Elvis brand justice, and perform to sell out crowds, and to where he is the most popular. We have offered Tassie audiences a special deal to come to Melbourne.
The first album went Number 1 in Australia and EPE hope the concerts will be sellouts
Tickets on sale NOW. CLICK HERE for ticket info & purchasing
The Australian & NZ Tour dates now confirmed.
Friday 26 May 2017 – Perth Arena, Perth
Sunday 28 May 2017 – Adelaide Ent Centre, Adelaide
Thursday 1 June 2017 – Brisbane Ent Centre
Friday 2 June 2017 – ICC Theatre, Sydney
Saturday 10 June 2017 – New Show added Margaret Court Arena, Melbourne
Sunday 11 June 2017 – CANCELLED, Tasmania
Friday 7 July 2017 – CANCELLED, Christchurch
Sunday 9 July 2017 – CANCELLED, Auckland

(News, Source,ElvisInfoNet)

EIN review - 'Elvis & RPO In Concert' London: The general media have been very positive in their reviews of the new 'Elvis & the RPO' UK concert tour. It is amazing that almost 40 years after his death, Elvis Presley is still getting fully-deserved standing ovations at packed arenas.
Cleverly put-together, the interaction between an On-Screen Elvis and The Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra works better than many expected.
Once again the new Elvis shows have such an impact that reviews note, "So realistic fans felt Elvis really was in the building! "
Elvis super-fan and EIN contributor Brian Quinn was at the London O2 concert and reports back in detail on the lengthy concert.
Go here for the review, concert photos and more 

(Spotlight; Source;BQ/ElvisInformationNetwork)


“The Wonder of You” Kate Moss Video: The much-anticipated Kate Moss video to promote “The Wonder of You” as the new Christmas single of Elvis with the RPO has been released.
The black-and-white video sees Moss singing along to Presley’s song with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
She’s dressed in a series of outfits inspired by Presley’s style signatures, from leather suits to embellished shirts.
The video begins with a close-up on a black leather jumpsuit, a custom-made piece created for Moss to reference the leather suit Presley made famous in his 1968 Comeback Special.
The supermodel, clad in the leather jumpsuit, is seen singing at London’s famous Abbey Road Studios, where “The Wonder of You: Elvis Presley with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra” album, was recorded. She then goes on to lounge on vintage sofas, and a piano, dressed in an embroidered shirt and fishnet tights. (CLICK HERE to YouTube for the video)
“I was so excited to be asked to be involved in this project — anything for Elvis,” Moss said.
This isn’t the first time that Moss has exercised her vocal chords in the name of Elvis as she once joined singer Candi Staton on an impromptu performance of Presley’s “Suspicious Minds.”
Vaughan Arnell, director at the production company Moxie Pictures, created the concept for the video based on the striking resemblance he observed between some of Moss’ most famous fashion shoots and imagery of Elvis Presley.
EIN Notes that a) It is very odd that ELVIS does not feature anywhere in the video.
b) This new version is NOT Elvis' original single version, but instead the rather underwhelming August 13, 1970 version.
c) The RPO accompaniment makes it sound very 'Karaoke' and rather lame, which perhaps matches Kate Moss' karaoke in the video. A missed opportunity
- even if Kate Moss does look FANTASTIC in Elvis leather!
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

'The Wonder Of You' Elvis With The RPO Deluxe Edition OUT NOW: The Wonder Of You: Elvis Presley With The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra presents the iconic artist’s unmistakable voice and most dramatic original performances augmented with lush new orchestral accompaniment. Recorded at Abbey Road Studios in London with acclaimed producers Don Reedman and Nick Patrick, the album spans a variety of musical styles that Elvis embraced, from rock and gospel to country and ballads. Featuring beloved Presley classics along with several surprises, standout tracks include a sultry new version of “A Big Hunk O’ Love,” the glorious “Amazing Grace,” the heartfelt emotion of “Kentucky Rain” and a stunning new take on the classic “Always On My Mind.”
The Deluxe Edition of the album includes three additional tracks on CD; two, 150 gram LPs in a Gatefold package, a poster suitable for framing and a 12 page booklet, all housed in a 12”x12” lift-off box.
From Amazon UK for only £31.99 & FREE Delivery in the UK. go here for details>

(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
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'The Wonder Of You' Elvis With The RPO 'VINYL' Out Now: Also out this week 'The Wonder Of You: Elvis Presley With The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra' as a double Vinyl set for album collectors.
This set on glorious VINYL presents the iconic artist’s unmistakable voice and most dramatic original performances augmented with lush new orchestral accompaniment. Recorded at Abbey Road Studios in London with acclaimed producers Don Reedman and Nick Patrick, the album spans a variety of musical styles that Elvis embraced, from rock and gospel to country and ballads.
The VINYL set features two 150 gram LPs in a Gatefold package
From Amazon UK for only £18.99
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
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- December 4 - Larry Muhoberac, Elvis piano man, Has Died: After reports two months ago of Larry Muhoberac being in poor health, EIN is very sad to hear the news that Larry passed away. His wife of over 40 years Andra is heartboken, Larry was only 79.

It was Muhoberac who played piano for Elvis' at his sensational Las Vegas return to live performing in 1969. 
In fact, Larry Muhoberac’s hands have also doubled for Elvis’ in several movie scenes of The King playing the piano.
And while Elvis left the building long ago, Muhoberac also played alongside Ray Charles, Neil Diamond and Barbra Streisand before moving to Australia with his wife Andra in 1986.

Early in his career Muhoberac worked as "Larry Gordon" at Elvis' February 1961 Memphis charity shows, and then later on four of Elvis’ films — Frankie And Johnny (1966), Paradise Hawaiian Style (1966), Speedway (1968) and Stay Away Joe (1968) after moving to Memphis to find his musical fortune.
Of working with Elvis in the sixties he noted “It was great fun and you got to see Hollywood. We were looked after really well. All the times were good. . Elvis had a great feeling for the timing of the song. He contributed that and that was a major contribution. If a song was a little under or over the tempo, Elvis was very aware of that.”
You know, of all the people I have ever worked with the only person people ever ask about is Elvis. At the time you just did your job,” he said.
Larry Muhoberac 12 Feb, 1937 - 4 December 2016 RIP.
(News, Source;MSquair/ElvisInfoNet)
'All Shook Up' - FTD CD review: One of the best ways to remember Larry Muhoberac's contribution on piano to Elvis' stunning Las Vegas return is this Midnight concert from August 26th 1969. The excitement of Elvis' return to live performances in August 1969 would never be repeated. On his Midnight shows Elvis had no time limit, was able to perform to his maximum and on this special night he was in a fabulously funny mood & as loose as a goose! ‘All Shook Up’ captures Elvis’ truly infectious laughter while at the same time Larry Muhoberac's piano driven mix. EIN sent Larry a copy of this great CD for his collection back in 2005(FTD Review, Source: EIN)
Sonny West In Desperate Need Of Help: Things are very sadly going worse for Sonny West and his wife Judy with both now diagnosed with cancer and needing our help.
Marty Lacker writes, "Since 2011 Sonny has had nothing but serious medical problems, all unexpectedly. On top of that, because of their combined cancer diagnoses, Sonny's wife Judy is battling breast cancer and their massive medical bills have caused their home to be scheduled to go into foreclosure on December 15. Talk about shitty luck.
Sonny has been a good friend for many years just as he was with Elvis. He was willing to take a bullet for Elvis.
His son Bryan has started a GoFundMe page. I ask that you donate whatever you can to him and Judy to help save their house.
Sonny needs thousands to save it. I will be coming up with something of Elvis' to auction off with all proceeds going to them.
In addition we are trying to put together a concert of artists who we have been associated with to help pay what they owe on their house to save it. This is not the time for them to lose their home while they're both battling dreaded cancer.
If you can help, please do. Thank you."

Bryan has posted, "Both my mom and dad are two of the kindest and loving individuals I know. Both have been in and out of the hospital due to major health concerns. They need your help and I'm asking for your help. If you can find it somewhere in your heart to contribute, it would be greatly appreciated."
PLEASE CLICK HERE, donate what you can, every little bit helps
The US TV programme 'Inside Edition' has also reported about his terrible troubles
.. Speaking from his hospital bed, 78-year-old Sonny West said he is now facing foreclosure this month due to the medical bills associated with his cancer diagnosis.
"I don't want to leave my family behind, penniless, leave them with nothing, I just want to be back to where I can carry the love that I need to carry."

West is currently undergoing treatment for cancer shortly after celebrating five years in remission. His wife of 46 years, Judy Jordan, is also undergoing treatment for cancer and will be admitted into surgery next week.
Because of their mounting medical bills, and debt of nearly $22,000, the couple said they are now facing foreclosure, scheduled later this month.
"I just feel very depressed," West said.
Sonny West started out as one of his bodyguards, and eventually broke into Presley's inner circle, where he remained his good friend for 17 years. He appeared in Presley's 1968 hit film Stay Away, Joe, and Presley reciprocated by acting as the best man at West's wedding.
"I felt good, ambitious, going around the world doing shows, entertaining people, standing up for hours with all my energy and everything," West said.
His lucky streak ended about five years ago, when he was diagnosed with stage 4 throat cancer. West has been on a feeding tube ever since.
To pay off debt they accrued for the various treatments, the couple said they began selling Presley's memorabilia, including the jewelry he gifted West, and a briefcase.
They also started a GoFundMe campaign to raise money to pay off their debt. PLEASE HELP - click here.
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

‘Memphis Recording Service: The Complete Works 1953 – 1955’ OUT NOW: MRS has released their 2CD/100page book compilation titled ‘Memphis Recording Service: The Complete Works 1953 – 1955’ - for Only £29.99.
The 100-page book chronicles Elvis’ short recording career there, from its humble beginnings (his personal acetate recordings from July 1953 and January 1954) through to the final Sun sessions in 1955. The full and comprehensive text is complemented by rare photographs and unseen pieces of documentation. The 2CDs contain the complete archival studio recordings from 1953- 1955:  Elvis’ personal acetates, the Sun masters, along with rare session outtakes. The tracks have been painstakingly remastered and restored.
There are many highlights on this new release. All of the newly remastered tracks now sound much clearer and crisper. For instance, ‘That’s All Right’ has been taken from the ‘Mother’ master of the original Sun 45rpm. Also, for the first time on CD, ‘I Forgot to Remember to Forget’ appears without the false bass RCA added to it in the 1980s when tampering with the master tapes.   Indeed, all previous erroneous mastering faults and miscalculations have been rectified on this release, making it the best collection of these seminal recordings thus far.
Go to 'All The CD News 2016' for full details & tracklisting

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Jimmy Ellis In The Shadow of A King (Book Review): The Jimmy "Orion" Ellis story is an intriguing one with many twists and turns. Born Jimmy Bell in Pascagoula, Mississippi in 1945, his unmarried mother, Gladys Bell (apart from their vocal similarity, Elvis and Jimmy had other things in common), was unable to care for baby Jimmy and gave him up for adoption. The birth certificate listed his father simply as Vernon! (no last name! - more about this later). A talented sportsperson at school, Jimmy's adult life would be inextricably connected to Elvis with a rollercoaster ride dominated by a mask and his vocal similarity to the King. It would also be a life of wild fan adulation and growing resentment on Jimmy's part as he struggled with not being accepted as a talented singer in his own right. Ultimately, his life was cut short in a tragic, double fatal shooting.

EINs Nigel Patterson recently delved into a fascinating account of the late singer's life - read Nigel's in-depth review.

(Book Review, Source: EIN)


Major Elvis Presley HBO Documentary confirmed: As EIN first reported on November 3, the new yet-to-be-titled HBO Entertainment documentary about the life and music of Elvis Presley, co-produced by Zach Russo and Ernst Jorgensen, has just ended pre-production and will debut on the HBO network.
Produced by Sony Pictures Television it is directed by Emmy and Grammy winner Thom Zimny, who has work on multiple Bruce Springsteen documentary and video projects, and written by Alan Light, the three-hour, two-part film presentation takes the audience on a comprehensive journey from Presely's childhood through his final Jungle Room recording sessions in 1976.
The project focuses on the man and his music, deconstructing why Presley's sound and style were so revolutionary, exploring why they made him the world's most legendary musical icon and revealing the cost of the massive success he achieved. The films were produced with the full participation of the Elvis Presley family estate and unprecedented access to Graceland archives. Footage includes shots from inside Presley's iconic home and more than 20 new, primary-source interviews with session players, producers, engineers, directors and others who knew him. The documentary also features never-before-seen photos and footage from private collections worldwide.
"The producers came to HBO and Sony with the idea for a film drawing upon very rare footage that captures Elvis' musicianship in a new and exciting way," reports HBO's Kary Antholis, "The artistry on display in that footage reminded us of the great work by Jon Landau and Thom Zimny on HBO films documenting the studio artistry of Bruce Springsteen, and we are thrilled to have them at the helm to lend their unique cinematic perspectives to this iconic, complex and singular artist."
Jon Landau, Glen Zipper, Priscilla Presley, Jerry Schilling, Andrew Solt, Alan Gasmer and Authentic Brands Group chief Jamie Salter executive produce; Zimny directs and produces; and Zach Russo and Ernst Jorgensen co-produce.
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)



Being Elvis - A Lonely Life - strong sales on Amazon UK book charts: Ray Connolly's new book, Being Elvis - A Lonely Life, is experiencing strong sales in Britain (the book will be released in the USA in Feb 2017). A few days ago it was ranked:


'The Wonder Of You' Elvis with the RPO - In-depth CD Review: It is forty years since Elvis Presley entered a recording studio and he seems very reluctant to record anything new. So in terms of releasing a "new" album of Elvis material the topic has always been a tricky one. After the massive 2015 success of "Elvis with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra" and ‘If I Can Dream’ the follow-up was inevitable and 'The Wonder Of You' recently achieved Number One in the UK album charts.
But can a follow-up really be as impressive - and do the true Elvis fans have to approve of these on-going fake "Revisions"?

Click here as EIN's Piers Beagley and Bryan Gruszka are back again to cause "Double-trouble" and supply a very detailed review, discovering what's good and bad...
And HAVE YOUR SAY - what do you think of the new album? Are we wrong in our opinions?
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInfoNet)


EIN Advice - Click straight to 'The Elvis Files' website to order the new ‘Elvis and Ann-Margret; Love In Las Vegas’ book for only EuroE.42  - includes world-wide postage. See book details below.
Some naughty online Elvis shops are, as always, ripping fans off charging EuroE70 (AU$99) plus postage for the same 150-page soft-back book!!!

'Love In Las Vegas' New Book: Erik Lorentzen has announced 'Elvis & Ann-Margret; Love In Las Vegas' - a beautiful soft cover book with 150 pages (25 x 30 cm) of PURE LOVE was released in Sweden, Saturday at the Elvis Convention in Västerås.
You can't beat the romance, power & lust of 'Elvis & Ann-Margret'.
It’s written in English and is full of articles and great photos of the beautiful couple.
KJ Consulting are proud to publish this book about one of the biggest (Hollywood) romances of the sixties.

More Preview pages - and looking fantastic!

Click straight to 'The Elvis Files' to pre-order for EU42.

 

 

(News, Source;EL/ElvisInfoNet)


Book Review - Elvis: Truth, Myth & Beyond An Intimate Conversation with Lamar Fike: Many of Elvis’ inner sanctum (family, friends and the Memphis Mafia) have released one or more books about their experience with Elvis. In 2011 it was anticipated that the larger than life, Lamar Fike, would finally publish his memoir. Publication plans were delayed as Lamar courted interest from Hollywood about a screen adaptation of his book. Then, very sadly, before the book was finished, Lamar passed away on 21 January 2011.

In 2016 it became known that before he died, Lamar had also spent several days with researchers L.E. McCullough and Harold F. Eggers, Jr. discussing his 23 years association and friendship with Elvis. The result of those discussions (400 questions and answers) have now been released in the book, Elvis: Truth, Myth & Beyond An Intimate Conversation with Lamar Fike Elvis Presley's Closest Friend and Confidant.

In the shadows of late afternoon, EIN's Nigel Patterson recently took off his blue suede shoes and delved deep inside Elvis: Truth, Myth & Beyond, to explore the germane, always interesting and clever mind of the late Lamar Rielly Fike. This is what Nigel found

(Book Review, Source: EIN)


ASK Marty: Today Marty Lacker answers your questions about....

- Did you think Elvis marriage would possibly last at the time
- When was Graceland upstairs restricted access and did any Memphis Mafia guys stay upstairs
- Elvis at STAX, did he take another direction just to please his fans
- Of all the women in his life, who who looked after him the best
- Did Elvis drive a Chevy truck around undercover around Memphis.
- Did Elvis had any income from alternate investments such as real estate
- What was Elvis singing voice like up close and personal

Go here to 'ASK MARTY' for his answers plus how to send in your questions. 

(Ask Marty, Source;ML/ElvisInfoNet)

 

'The Hometown Shows' FTD In-depth Review: FTD's new release 'ELVIS: The Hometown Shows' is another double-CD this time focusing on Elvis' Memphis performance from 1974 / 75.  It features two legendary shows from the Mid-South Coliseum, Memphis, the March 17, 1974 (Evening show) and June 10, 1975 performance.
The March 17, 1974 ES soundboard is a brand new unreleased show, while June 10 1975 is one of Elvis' best mid-seventies concerts which has been previously out on bootleg. Both are excellent shows and in GREAT sound.
This 1975 concert provided us with the great Ed Bonja cover photo for the 'From EP Boulevard' album so you know Elvis was up for a good time!
Go here as Elvis soundboard super-collector Geoffrey McDonnell & EIN's Piers Beagley check out this new FTD Memphis double-pack and discover both the good and the disappointing facts about this new FTD release
(FTD Reviews, Source;GM/PB/ElvisInformationNetwork) 


 

'The Wonder Of You/If I Can Dream' Elvis/RPO Double set: Yet another version of the new 'Wonder Of You' album has been announced. A double-CD combining both the new album as well as the previous 'If I Can Dream'. I am not sure why any Elvis fans would need this - but it does have a cute alternate cover. So far you can only pre-order this via Amazon in Germany and Japan.
SEE below for Pre-order info for other CD versions.
The Wonder Of You: Elvis Presley With The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra presents the iconic artist’s unmistakable voice and most dramatic original performances augmented with lush new orchestral accompaniment. Recorded at Abbey Road Studios featuring beloved Presley classics along with several surprises, standout tracks include a sultry new version of “A Big Hunk O’ Love,” the glorious “Amazing Grace,” and a stunning new take on “Always On My Mind.”
'The Wonder Of You: Elvis Presley With The Royal Philharmonic'  VINYL release is presented in beautiful gatefold packaging and pressed on 150g vinyl.
'The Wonder Of You: Elvis Presley With The Royal Philharmonic' DELUXE  Edition includes 3 additional tracks on CD, two, 150 gram LPs in a gatefold package, poster and a 12 page booklet, all housed in a 12”x 12” lift off box.
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)


US CD
US VINYL
UK CD
UK VINYL
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EIN's Elvis Facebook page this week celebrates its 20,000 members! - including several of Elvis' own friends and colleagues

So Elvis fans don't miss out on these rare and exciting photographs.

Now with over thousands of great photos, News and with more added every day – including YouTube footage.

Click here to Facebook - Elvis Information Network group.


Book Review: A Little Thing Called Life: Finally, Linda Thompson's memoir has been published.....and it has been well worth the wait! Linda's life, not only with Elvis, but with two other global icons and her own amazing career is an engrossing and revealing read.

Inside its nearly 400 pages Linda reveals her life as an individual, as a mother and as a partner. We learn of the similarities and differences between the three.

Alternating between the light, dark and shades of life in between, A Little Thing Called Life is an honest and intimate account of the incredible life of an amazing woman, from the three men who shared her life and her family to the highly successful and varied career that she continues to enjoy. (Book Review, Source: EIN)

Read Nigel Patterson's detailed review


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UPDATED - 'Secrets and Lies: Getting to the Truth about Elvis' Christmas Album': Probably more than any other album of his career, Elvis’ Christmas Album is generally regarded as having created the most controversy.
Some would argue that the first album in 1956 did this, but actually there was relatively little backlash against it or Elvis in the press prior to the second Milton Berle appearance. Elvis’ Christmas Album, however, has stories of it being banned by radio stations, firings of DJs, and an irate Irving Berlin all attached to it.
These events make for great stories, have been often repeated, and only add to the legend of the boy from Tupelo taking on the establishment and coming out with #1 album.
But are they really true?
Go here to this fascinating EIN spotlight where author Shane Brown investigates and checks the facts and the fantasy - now updated with your comments & more info

(Spotlight, Source;ShaneBrown/ElvisInfoNet)


Trevor Simpson talks about "Elvis: His Songs of Praise": Out later this month is the first of two volumes titled "Elvis: His Songs of Praise" from author Trevor Simpson.
The two volumes will combine to over 700 pages chronicling the 100 sacred, spiritual and inspirational gospel songs sung by Elvis. Volume 1 promises over 350 pages with lavishly illustrated high-quality images, many unseen photographs and graphics as well as a 30-track special bonus CD.

EIN noted that our original 'His Songs Of Praise' tracklisting we posted was not correct. While confirming the track selection EIN's Piers Beagley took the chance to ask author Trevor Simpson some questions about his new book as well as this interesting CD selection.


UPDATED - 'Way Down In The Jungle Room' EIN Review:  Released for August 2016 this SONY Legacy pack celebrates the 40th anniversary of Elvis’ last recording sessions which took place in Graceland’s Jungle Room.
The publicity noted the sessions “have been newly mixed by Matt Ross-Spang at Sam Phillips Recording” and “includes both outtakes and in-the-studio dialog, providing a ‘fly-on-the-wall experience’ of what the sessions were like".
Elvis' original 76/77 albums were fairly uninspired collections (bar a few fine singles) and on the original LPs it was almost impossible to glimpse any sign of creative input from Elvis through the syrupy overdubs. It wasn't until the release of FTD’s magnificent ‘The Jungle Room Sessions’ that many fans began to understand the raw emotion, close camaraderie and Elvis’ personal feelings that were revealed by these intimate Graceland sessions.
To produce that same kind of revelation for the 'General Public' would be a very tricky project but that is exactly what the new legacy team has done - and to great effect.
Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley discovers the old Elvis magic and what is special for Elvis Collectors in our in-depth review
Now Updated & Expanded with Your Comments - James Burton talks about the Jungle Room sessions & more
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
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In Australia - buy this great release for only $23 at JBHiFi click here . delivery only $1.70!

Please Do Not be ripped off by other Australian Elvis shops.


UPDATED - Paul Dowling EIN Interview Part Three: Paul Dowling is without doubt one of the major names in the Elvis World. He started collecting and selling Elvis vinyl over 40 years ago and has one of the world's largest Elvis Presley record collections. He started his "WorldWide Elvis" shop back in the seventies, way before the internet, where fans could get hold of rare Elvis records and memorabilia.
With such a fascination with Elvis, Dowling not only became a big name in the early years of Elvis bootlegs but later became friends with Ernst Jorgensen and helped RCA with various official releases.
In the final part of our fascinating interview Paul Dowling discusses ....
- Dodging the FBI agents that were sent after him
- Unreleased Elvis material that still hasn’t come out
- Why does Ernst Jorgensen doubt this claims
- His BMG project 'For The First Time Ever' - what happened
- The true story of obtaining the Million Dollar Quartet tape
- His thoughts on Paul Lichter, Sean Saver, Sherif Hanna, Rex Martin
- Spending time with Alan Fortas
- Jim Curtin, newly added story 
Go here - Don’t Miss Part Three of our exclusive EIN interview - an essential read for Elvis collectors.
(Interviews; Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

(Book Review) Elvis on Television 1956-60 - new Boxcar deluxe production another winner!: Joseph Pirzada and his Boxcar organisation return with their new deluxe, coffee table examination of Elvis' early television performances. Elvis On Television 1956-60 impacts the reader on several levels – it not only informs, but it entertains and also delights as a potent narrative-visual record of Elvis on 50s-early 60s TV, highlighting its importance in propelling his career beyond being contained only to a regional footprint.

Read Nigel Patterson's detailed review of another winner from Boxcar - including some great Elvis photos !

(Book Review, Source: EIN)


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'Elvis Taking Care Of Business - In A Flash FTD Book Review: Focusing on Elvis in late 1970 and early 1971, "Elvis Presley Taking Care Of Business - In A Flash" is the new FTD Book/CD combo by Flaming Star/FTD.
Produced by David English, Pål Granlund and Paul Richardson, this book presents a detailed chronicle of Elvis’ personal life and public career between the autumn of 1970 and the early weeks of 1971.
It is a hardcover, large-format book with 450 pages that offer detailed coverage of Elvis’ life and career over the important four months from October 1970 to January 1971.
The publicity promised hundreds of photographs, many of them candid and previously unpublished and new and exclusive interviews.
It also comes with a bonus CD with unreleased versions of studio-tracks plus Elvis’ concert in Portland, Oregon on Nov 11th 1970.

Can it really be as good as promised? EIN's Piers Beagley investigates and discovers plenty .. Go here to our indepth review featuring plenty of extracts and wonderful photographs.
(FTD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)


'ELVIS - NBC TV Special' FTD CD Review: Elvis’ NBC TV Special was such a high point in his career - his musical renaissance and the sound of him kicking open the door to his prison cell of movie contracts and dreadful scripts - that can there really ever be enough compilations to satisfy us all?
'ELVIS - Original Soundtrack Recording From His NBC TV Special' is finally released as an FTD "Classic Album" with a 16-page booklet and remastered audio.
The first disc includes the original album plus the expected Bonus Cuts, while Disc 2 contains a full 80 minutes of Elvis' studio sessions of June 21-23 with LA session band 'The Wrecking Crew'.
The vast majority of the session outtakes however have been previously released, so can this FTD Classic Album really offer anything new?
EIN's Piers Beagley investigates and discovers that it is one of FTD's best releases of all time!
Go here for our in-depth review
(FTD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

'ELVIS On Television The Complete Sound Recordings' Review: The 60th anniversary of Elvis’ first appearance on national television is celebrated with this 2CD/100-page set.
The new MRS box-set was publicised as containing the complete archival recordings of Elvis Presley’s television appearances from 1956-60. For the first time ever, these tracks been painstakingly remastered and restored.
The recordings contain all song tracks, comedy sketch routines and interviews including the extended Wink Martindale interview.
The 100-page book is a chronological photo journey following Elvis from the very first in 1956, to his appearance on The Frank Sinatra show in 1960. It contains liner notes accompanied by many rare and new unpublished photographs.

In the individual chapters Gordon Minto provides the main details and highlights of each TV performance. Matching the text, each chapter features around 15 pages of significant photographs, a surprising number of the in colour.

Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley checks out this new MRS CD/Book package with an in-depth review along with some scans from the book showcasing some excellent Elvis images.

(Book/CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInfoNetwork)


Now available:

NOW UPDATED - 'Elvis Presley - The Album Collection' EIN Review: This 60th Anniversary 60-CD Deluxe Edition celebrates RCA Victor's signing of Elvis Presley. It features nearly all of the albums Elvis recorded and RCA released in his lifetime: studio, soundtrack, and live.
It includes a 300-page deluxe fully illustrated hard cover book with complete insightful commentary, discography and recording session data. Elvis Presley-The Album Collection represents a level of artistic achievement unparalleled to this day.
Elvis collectors have bought these Elvis albums time and time again - so can this new set really offer anything more..
Go here as Elvis author Shane Brown investigates the new deluxe box-set and and discovers the good, the bad and truly great value package ...
Now Updated- EIN Contributor David Tinson add his comments on the two classic albums NBC-TV Special and Memphis To Vegas, Vegas To Memphis
(CD Reviews; Source;ShaneBrown/ElvisInfoNet)

'Ultimate Elvis' New Electronic Edition: Announced by Elvis sessions expert Keith Flynn for publication November 1 is the brand new concept of the 1750 page super-deluxe Elvis sessions book 'Ultimate Elvis' Electronic Edition.
This incredible three volume book will now be available as an e-book on an i-pad or android tablet.
- Created in HTML5
Fully updated e-books will open in any web browser on any operating system, so no need for separate downloads for different operating systems.
- Life-Like 'Flipping' Pages
Flip through pages as if you are reading an actual book, but also being able to zoom-in to view smaller images and captions.
- View as Double or Single pages
View as double pages on a computer or laptop etc, and single pages when viewing in portrait on an i-pad or Android tablet.
- Fully Navigational Table Of Contents
Jump back and forth to the sections of the books you want to read, instead of flipping through numerous pages to find what you want.
PRICED AT - all 3 Volumes for £60 = US$93
On sale from November 1st 2015.
Try Before You Buy - Download free zip-file containing 27 pages from Volume 1, before you decide to buy the complete set. - NOTE - These books are MASSIVE so you will need approximately 1GB of spare disc space for these three volumes, - Click HERE to Keith Flynn's 'Ultimate Elvis' Electronic Edition to try.
Go HERE to EIN's independent review of 'Ultimate Elvis'
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

Did Elvis Record 'Tiger Man' At Sun?: A question that has puzzled Elvis fans through the years is whether he actually recorded the song ‘Tiger Man’ during his years at SUN studios.
The basic question is why did Elvis refer to 'Tiger man' several times in concert as “The second song that I ever recorded, not too many people heard it”?
And if Elvis DID record it, then why hasn’t any reference to it at SUN or proof of its existence been found?
Elvis would first perform ‘Tiger Man’ in concert at his first 1969 Las Vegas International season and would continue playing it through the years – usually in a medley with Mystery Train - until his last performance at Saginaw on May 3 1977. He would sing it over 150 times on stage!
The thought that there might be an acetate or undiscovered tape of Elvis at SUN singing ‘Tiger Man’ is a mouth-watering concept - but is it an unlikely fantasy or strong possibility?
Go here to our detailed 'TIGER MAN' spotlight as EIN's Piers Beagley puts in the hard yards to check the facts from the fantasy .
(Spotlight; Source;ElvisInfoNetwork)

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The Elvis Information Network has been running since 1986 and is an EPE officially recognised Elvis fan club.

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- The Elvis Files Vol.8 1976-1977 - in-depth review
- Brian Quinn reviews Elvis & RPO On tour London concert

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