First Printing "SOLD OUT" - 'Elvis Presley on Compact Disc: First Australian Edition' (Books One to Five): Bob Hayden has advised EIN that following our news item last week about his latest set of Elvis books, the first printing has "SOLD OUT". Due to the demand for the books, Bob is arranging for a second printing which should be available later this month.
EIN's original news item:
Prolific Australian Elvis and rock and Roll author-researcher, Bob Hayden, has just released his latest, five-volume Elvis set. Elvis On CD showcases all of Elvis' CD releases in Australia between 1985 and 2023, including RCA, BMG, Sony, various artists compilations, box sets, promo releases, known CD sales, and more. Both CDs printed in Australia and RCA/BMG/Sony "import" releases, are featured as well as release variations.

The books are softcover and printed on high quality gloss paper stock. Each CD is presented in glorious full colour (front and back covers, CD disc, plus promotional material). There is also an alphabetical listing of the 248 CDs featured in the set. Book One includes informative and detailed narrative sections about the History of Elvis CDS in Australia (RCA-BMG-Sony), and Elvis Downunder: A Fragmented Experience - RCA/BMG/Sony, The Fans, Record and Compact Disc Sales. Each book contains 72 to 76 pages.

Bob originally considered publishing the set as a one volume “coffee table” book, but at around 360 pages with hundreds of colour photos, the cost was prohibitive.

To find out more or order the books, Bob can be contacted by email at: elvis2594@gmail.com
(News, Source: EIN)

As the song wound down to a close, a tearful Cecily gave a hug to Austin and to her other fellow cast members as she bid them all a final farewell on stage.
The track was a perfect way to end the SNL episode, but Austin Butler was a brilliant success as a debut host on the show, beginning with his opening monologue where he choked up as he paid tribute to his late mother.

The former Disney channel star stepped onto the decorated stage as the audience excitedly welcomed him with a cheerful applause at the beginning of the episode.
He opted for a sleek, black suit comprising of a double-breasted jacket and loose-fitting slacks.
The star chose to not add a shirt underneath the jacket for a stylish flare.
You can see all the Highlights here via NBC Insider
(News, Source;NBC/ElvisInfoNet)

Brian Petersen, Elvis Super-Fan has died: Sad news as we heard that Elvis authority Brian Petersen died last week.
A friend beautifully noted, "I am saddened to announce the demise of Brian Petersen, a true Elvis fan.
Brian never hesitated to answer my queries re dates and info on certain Elvis photos.
He is a big loss to the Elvis fandom and I will surely miss him.
May he rest in peace! I am sure he is now in a better place with Elvis.
Thank you, Brian, for keeping Elvis’ memory alive and true and accurate for us and future generations of Elvis fans."
Back in 1994 Brian Petersen published the book 'The Atomic Powered Singer' "240 pages of solid facts - a must for any true, rock historian" a top-notch book of the era published as a day-by-day calendar of Elvis Presley's 1956 - the year that took him from being "the most promising C & W artist" to movie star status.
The book is a classic of its time and Brian Petersen was an authority on every aspect of Elvis' legacy.

He will be missed.
You can check out his website Brian's Elvis Corner here

RIP Brian Petersen
(News, Source;PhoenixElvisForum/EIN)

Spinout actress Diane McBain died aged 81: Diane McBain best-known to Elvis fans for her role in Spinout as Diana St. Clair author of the book ‘The Perfect American Male’ (!) has died. She was 81.
McBain's career began at the age of 17 after a talent agent scouted her during a high school performance. Following a short stint as a model she made her television debut in 1959 on the western series Maverick and then appeared in TV ‘77 Sunset Strip’ and ABC crime show ‘Surfside 6’.

She left Warner Brothers in 1964 and vied for Elvis Presley’s attention with Shelly Fabares and Deborah Walley in the 1966 movie 'Spinout' she also played Pinky Pinkston on TV's 'Batman'.

See Elvis singing 'All That I Am' to Diana here

In Tom Lisanti’s 2001 book, Fantasy Femmes of Sixties Cinema, McBain said she regretted being typecast as bad girls. “I wanted to play the ingénue. I could never understand why everyone wanted to play the bitch. Because when you go into society, people view you as they see you onscreen. It’s terrible to be thought of as this messy, horrible person when you’re not!”

She starred opposite Richard Burton in the 1960 film Ice Palace and her résumé also included the films Five the Hard Way (1969), I Sailed to Tahiti With an All Girl Crew (1969)

and episodes of Burke’s Law, The Wild Wild West, Police Story, The Man From U.N.C.L.E., Hawaii Five-O, Charlie’s Angels, Eight Is Enough, Dallas, Days of Our Lives and Knight Rider.

In an interview McBaine explained, “I loved Elvis. He was wonderful. He was in good shape at that time. I remember him being tall, slender and so beautiful and he had this beautiful voice. I liked him a lot. He probably had affairs with some actresses or co-stars, but not with me. We had a really nice friendship on set. He was a spiritual guy, and he loved to read anything about being spiritual. He wasn’t so much religious, but spiritual. And I, too, was fascinated by those things. So we bonded over that. We used to exchange books on set and it was great fun. We would have conversations all the time about being spiritual. It was a good relationship, very solid. I just thought he was so terrific.”

(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet/The Hollywood Reporter)

Elvis Presley on Compact Disc - First Australian Edition (Books One to Five):  Prolific Australian Elvis and rock and Roll author-researcher, Bob Hayden, has just released his latest, five-volume Elvis set. Elvis On CD showcases all of Elvis' CD releases in Australia between 1985 and 2023, including RCA, BMG, Sony, various artists compilations, box sets, promo releases, known CD sales, and more. Both CDs printed in Australia and RCA/BMG/Sony "import" releases, are featured as well as release variations.

The books are softcover and printed on high quality gloss paper stock. Each CD is presented in glorious full colour (front and back covers, CD disc, plus promotional material). There is also an alphabetical listing of the 248 CDs featured in the set.

Book One includes informative and detailed narrative sections about the History of Elvis CDS in Australia (RCA-BMG-Sony), and Elvis Downunder: A Fragmented Experience - RCA/BMG/Sony, The Fans, Record and Compact Disc Sales. Each book contains 72 to 76 pages.

Bob originally considered publishing the set as a one volume “coffee table” book, but at around 360 pages with hundreds of colour photos, the cost was prohibitive.

To find out more or order the books, Bob can be contacted by email at: elvis2594@gmail.com
(News, Source: EIN)

(Mini review) The Inspirational Success Story, Legacy and the Mysterious Death of Elvis Presley - The Real History About Elvis Presley's Parents. Estate. Wife. Daughter. Wealth. And the Sudden Death of Elvis Presley (Peter Chasey): Out of interest, its relatively cheap price (A$23) for a 400 page book, and being intrigued by its ridiculously long and involved title, EIN bought this new release from Amazon Australia. On initially leafing though the book we chanced upon several passages we thought were quite interesting and thought OK, this may be a good read.
However, on further exploration we found a book where we thought that English was not the author's first language (despite his anglicised name), and which exhibited unusual expressions, e.g.:

Parker had at this point drove Presley into a weighty filmmaking plan, zeroed in on equation based, unobtrusively planned melodic comedies.

That, quite surprisingly, the text seems to have been translated is evidenced by:

An addict XL remix of Presley's "Somewhat Less Discussion" [credited as "Elvis vs JXL"] was utilized in a Nike [ad] promoting effort during the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

There are also clearly "author revised" parts of Wikipedia articles (e.g. Top selling recording artists).

Quite bizarrely, "in a why is it here?" section, Writings (a list of only seven books!), the author changes the title of James Tramontana's entertaining sci-fi novel (which has a neat Elvis related theme), 'Ace Tucker, Space Trucker', to 'Pro Exhaust Space Driver!' - that is some online translator the author was using!

Also, the design of the book is ordinary, with lists of particular things running like normal narrative, and tables of information not being formatted, thereby losing their coherence and impact.

The diverse variety of topics in the book ranges from straight biography to Elvis' awards, musicianship, Elvis Presley Scholastic Capabilities, computer games, sports, equestrian, - you get the idea (it is all over the place). The chapter on Elvis' "mysterious" death offers nothing new.

The page design has excess white space which combined with larger than normal font size means the book could have been produced with a significantly reduced number of pages - however, EIN acknowledges that those of us with diminishing quality of visual acuity will likely appreciate the larger font. There is a Contents page, sadly sans the relevant page numbers (an obvious negative in a 400 page book).

On a positive note, EIN found the author's changing of Sony's collector's label, FTD (Follow That Dream) to "Follow That Fantasy", quite clever, and a few sections (likely Wiki sourced) such as Lost in Hollywood, have some merit.
Overall Verdict: Caveat Emptor!
(Book Review, Source: EIN)

Remember who else played Elvis on screen?: The LA Times recently posted... Three years after Rami Malik won an Academy Award for playing Freddie Mercury in “Bohemian Rhapsody,” Orange County native Austin Butler has been generating Academy Award buzz for channelling Elvis Presley in the Baz Luhrman-directed bio-spectacle ELVIS. In the lavish production, Butler’s Elvis shakes, rattles and rolls in all the right places, but he’s hardly the first actor to walk a mile in the King’s jumpsuit.

Here’s a look at six eye-popping on-screen portrayals of Elvis Presley, with at least another half-dozen out there.

Austin Butler in ELVIS (2022)
Singing: Butler does most of his own singing on the pre-1960s material, recording his vocals in the same Nashville studio favored by Presley back in the day. For Las Vegas-era Elvis, Butler lip-syncs to Presley recordings.
Dancing: To master Elvis’ rubber-legged wiggles and wobbles, Butler worked with British movement coach Polly Bennett, who also trained Malik for “Bohemian Rhapsody.”
All dressed up: Butler moves through more than 90 costume changes, from Young Elvis in pink blazer to the black leather outfit from Presley’s 1968 TV “Comeback Special,” culminating in the ‘70s era Las Vegas jumpsuit from designer Bill Belew.
Significant other: Manager Col Parker (Tom Hanks) stunted Elvis’ artistic growth with a rapacious contract that contributed to the star’s tragic later years.
Credit where it’s due: Little Richard (Alton Mason), Big Mama Thornton (Shonka Dukureh), Sister Rosetta Tharpe (Yola), B.B. King (Kelvin Harrison Jr.) and Arthur Crudup (Gary Clark Jr.) demonstrate how Black artists inspired early Elvis covers like “That’s All Right” and “Hound Dog.”
Preparation: Butler studied with numerous vocal coaches and dialect experts for two years before production began.

Michael Shannon in “Elvis & Nixon” (2016)
Singing: Shannon’s Elvis does not sing.
Dancing: He does not dance. However, this Elvis does show off karate moves in the Oval Office.
All dressed up: Shannon wears a jet-black pompadour wig, black pants, gold belt, white shirt with spread collar and a cape-like black jacket in near-perfect emulation of the clothes worn by Presley in a photo op with Nixon that would become the National Archives’ most requested photograph.
Significant other: Sidekick Jerry Schilling wrote a memoir detailing this stranger-than-fiction 1970 incident. In the film, Schilling (Alex Pettyfer) and Johnny Knoxville’s Sonny dramatize the essential role played by Presley’s “Memphis Mafia” entourage.
Gunplay: Elvis opens fire on a TV set at Graceland. Later, he shocks White House security guards by casually opening a briefcase loaded with pistols.
Preparation: Shannon visited Elvis’ tiny bedroom in Memphis’ Lauderdale Court public housing complex. Standing 6 feet 3, the actor focused less on physical verisimilitude and more on the star’s soft-spoken offstage demeanor.

Jonathan Rhys Meyers in “Elvis” miniseries (2005)
Singing: Rhys Meyers lip-syncs to original Elvis Presley recordings.
Dancing: Rhys Meyers pulls off one of Young Elvis’ most audacious moves by skidding across the stage on his knees like he’s sliding into home base.
All dressed up: A shimmering 1958 gold-leaf suit highlights a 1958 performance of “Blue Suede Shoes” at Chicago‘s International Amphitheatre.
Significant other: “I didn’t think of Elvis as the King of rock ‘n’ roll,” Rhys Meyers once said in an interview with Larry King. “I thought of him as a poor, talented boy from Tupelo, Miss., who wanted to buy his mother a house.”
Preparation: The Irish actor visited Graceland and met with members of Presley’s family. Rhys Meyers previously portrayed another charismatic musician, with his David Bowie-like role in 1998’s “Velvet Goldmine.”

Harvey Keitel in “Finding Graceland” (1998)
Singing: Keitel lip-syncs “Suspicious Minds” to a performance by an uncredited vocalist that bears little resemblance to Presley’s actual singing voice.
Dancing: Stocky 5-foot-7 Keitel puts everything he’s got into Elvis’ signature windmill gestures and hip thrusts.
All dressed up: Keitel’s “Elvis” wears a spangly blue jumpsuit for the movie’s climactic musical sequence.
Suspension of disbelief: Keitel’s drifter, claiming to be the not-really-dead Elvis Presley, hitches a ride to Memphis and dispenses home-spun wisdom along the way to his new friend (Johnathon Schaech).
Telling quote: Before Keitel’s nervous Elvis walks on stage, a friend advises: “If you forget any of the words just do some karate.”

(Elvis), Tom Hanks (Colonel Tom Parker), Olivia DeJonge (Priscilla) and other actors will also be on display, plus a look at the worldwide media frenzy surrounding the film.
Opens January 8
Go here to EPE for more 'ELVIS' exhibition info

However EIN bets that EPE will not have the full story of Baz Luhrmann's ELVIS film from May 2014 until now - Go HERE to EIN's exclusive spotlight on 'Elvis The Movie'

(News, Source;EPE/ElvisInfoNet)

..... - - - - -- Elvis and the Art of Timely Marketing:
Has Sony Australia missed a great opportunity for Elvis CD and download sales?: At this time of the year Christmas singles and albums have a strong presence on Top 40 charts around the world. 2022 is no exception, with Mariah Carey’s All I Want For Christmas Is You yet again at #1 on several major Singles charts, while other “golden oldies” riding high include Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree (Brenda Lee), Jingle Bell Rock (Bobby Helms), Andy Williams (It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year), and Last Christmas (Wham). On the Australian ARIA Album chart, Ms Carey (Merry Christmas), Michael Buble (Christmas), Jimmy Barnes (Blue Christmas), and others, are all prominent with festive season recordings.

In past years Elvis’ Blue Christmas single and Elvis’ Christmas Album have registered well on the ARIA charts, but their presence this year is seemingly non-existent, yet they are performing well on the US and UK charts.
It appears Sony Australia has missed a golden opportunity to capitalise on the ongoing success of Baz Luhrmann’s ELVIS biopic!
 (News, Source: EIN; Billboard; Official UK Charts; ARIA)

What has happened to the animated series, Agent King, on Netflix: It was originally slated for 2021 release (but Covid got in the way), and then announced for late 2022. However, it appears Netflix has gone undercover on a release date for the adventures of “undercover” Elvis as a federal agent. From the Netflix synopsis:
"Elvis trades in his jumpsuit for a jetpack when he joins a secret government spy program to help battle the dark forces that threaten the country."

In EIN’s opinion, it appears to be another lost opportunity to capitalise on the back of the runaway success of Baz Luhrmann’s ELVIS.
(News, Source: EIN)

Our apologies. The EIN website was hacked on Friday. And we could do nothing about the nasty "Gambling Website" that appeared in our place.
Our HOST company in Singapore was hacked and we were not the only website affected.

It was extremely tiresome for us - EIN is after all a FREE service which we do only to help keep Elvis' name and legacy burning bright.

Hopefully things are fixed, but more firewall work still needs to be done.

and THANKS to the amazing number of EIN readers who contacted us over the last few days.... It makes it all worthwhile..

ELVIS for more Golden Globes?: Now confirmed ELVIS is up for three Golden Globes. NBC will host the 80th Annual Golden Globe Awards on January 10, 2023.
Best Motion Picture (Drama)
ELVIS (Warner Bros.)
“The Fabelmans” (Universal Pictures)
“Top Gun: Maverick” (Paramount Pictures)
“Tár” (Focus Features)
“Avatar: The Way of Water” (20th Century Studios)
Best Actor in a Leading Role
Austin Butler — ELVIS
Brendan Fraser — “The Whale”
Bill Nighy — “Living”
Hugh Jackman — “The Son”
Will Smith — “Emancipation”
Best Director
Baz Luhrmann — ELVIS

"ELVIS" could win another Golden Globe!
Suck on that Tom Parker!
50 years ago in 1973 'Elvis On Tour' won the Best Documentary Film at the 30th Golden Globe Awards.

(News, Source;BazL/ElvisInfoNet)

‘Las Vegas Hilton Presents Elvis – Opening Night 1972’ New MRS: The UK label ‘Memphis Recording Service’ (MRS) will release a CD Deluxe titled ‘Las Vegas Hilton Presents Elvis – Opening Night 1972' on 27th January 2023.
The CD contains a thrilling new show - featuring a revised setlist - from Elvis’ Opening Night at the Las Vegas Hilton on the 26 January 1972. The soundboard recording has been remastered and for the first time presented in true stereo. The accompanying booklet includes rare photographs and memorabilia along with introductory notes.

This was the concert where Elvis premiered the classic songs 'I'll Remember You', 'You Gave Me A Mountain' (sung with a lighter arrangement), 'Never Been To Spain', 'A Big Hunk O'Love' and 'An American Trilogy' as well as the first time 'See See Rider' was used as his opening number.
See 'All The CD News 2022' for full details & tracklist

(News, Source;MRS/ElvisInfoNet)

'8mm Elvis: The Story of Elvis on 8mm film' New Book: The new book '8mm Elvis: The Story of Elvis on 8mm film' should be out in January 2023.
Author Vince Wright notes..
As an Elvis fan and an 8mm fan I was always disappointed about the lack of info that was out there in the Elvis 8mm world.
All that we had was a list here and there and the same old pics.
As an Elvis fan working at Derann Film Services a million years ago I became obsessed with Elvis on 8mm and bought whatever my wage would allow. Later in life I put an advert in the Records Collector and the rarities rolled in
My dream was to own a book just about 8mm Elvis.. but now we will bring the story to life.

Go here to the 8mm Elvis website for more details

(News, Source;AS/VW/ElvisInfoNet)

Mike Freeman has died: Very sad news from Memphis as yesterday we learnt that Elvis scholar Mike Freeman has died.
His family posted, "It is with a broken heart that I let you know that Mike passed away peacefully at 2:14 am this morning. I was by his side. Arrangements will be made tomorrow"
Since 1991 Mike offered guided tours as well as books about the life of Elvis Presley. He co-wrote 'The Best of Elvis in 1992' and 'Memphis Elvis Style' in 1997 with Cindy Hazen.
For eight years they owned and lived in the first home Elvis purchased at 1034 Audubon Drive, Memphis.
In 2007 Mike helped create three DVDS; Elvis’ Memphis and Beyond Elvis’ Memphis with Artsmagic, UK and Elvis: Return to Tupelo with Michael Rose Productions.
His original Mike's Memphis Tours became Memphis Road Tours.
Right; Mike Freeman and another Memphian.
Go here to add your thoughts on his FB page.
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

'Elvis Live 1972 (2-LP)' New RCA Vinyl: In a surprise move we hear from "Bear Family" records that there will be a new RCA double-vinyl release from 'Elvis On Tour', 'Elvis Live 1972'
Interestingly it features a "best of" the four concerts listed below, thus creating the "ultimate tracklist", although the final side then features some kind of Col Parker "Bonus Tracks"...
April 9, 1972 - Hampton Roads Coliseum, Hampton, Virginia
April 10, 1972 - Richmond Coliseum, Richmond, Virginia
April 14, 1972 at Greensboro Coliseum, Greensboro, North Carolina
April 18, 1972 Convention Center Arena, San Antonio, Texas
Release date 27 January 2023
The tracklist however looks most enjoyable.
Priced at $57 I'm looking forward to this one

Go to 'FTD / SONY CD News 2022' for full tracklisting and more details

(News, Source;BearFamily/ElvisInfoNet)

2023 UK Tour - Elvis Presley + The Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, tickets on sale this Friday: Elvis never toured the UK, in recent years the magic of technology has made that possible with a series of acclaimed shows.
Hot on the heels of this year's hit Elvis biopic comes a return of 'The Very Best of Elvis – In Concert, Live On Screen with the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra'.
The unique concert experience is coming back to the UK in autumn 2023, taking in a number of arenas.

"The full-scale concert brings the King up close on screen alongside the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra live on stage performing the King of Rock and Roll’s most well-known 'rocking' songs and his tender, heart-wrenching ballads, with special guests to be announced in due course," said promoters.
'A show like no other, expect an overwhelmingly encapsulating and enthralling evening'
'These shows are a chance to both honour the legacy of an icon who has defined popular culture for over half a century, and for fans to see The King live, who never had the chance to before.'

UPDATED - 'The Elvis RCA Camden Collection' EIN Spotlight: Most fans have had a love-hate relationship with Elvis' Camden collections. On one hand they are seen as an artistic misstep being released at a time when Elvis was back riding high on the charts saturating the market with a series of albums containing little-known songs. Yet on the other hand many younger fans used these budget collections as a way to enter the amazing world of Elvis’ vast back-catalogue.
The RCA Camdens featured the first release of an Elvis live recording, 19 previously unreleased tracks and 58 tracks previously unreleased on an album. That is quite impressive even if Col Parker only had his increased revenue as the main goal.

Now updated with Readers' Feedback - Read this fascinating article and tell us YOUR THOUGHTS about Elvis' Camden releases...
EIN contributor Neil Colombari reveals all...
(Spotlight; Source;Neil Colombari/ElvisInfoNet)

'ELVIS' wins again: 2022 is turning out to be a big Awards year for our hero! The American Music Awards took place last weekend in Los Angeles. The show from dick clark productions was hosted by Wayne Brady.
The star-studded event celebrated the year’s best music and performances, as voted on by fans.
While the night belonged to Taylor Swift who won in all six categories for which she was nominated. This makes her the most decorated artist in AMAs history, with 40 career wins.
However 'ELVIS' won for favorite soundtrack of the year!
Other soundtrack nominees were 'Encanto', 'Sing 2', 'Stranger Things Season 4', and 'Top Gun: Maverick'.

Lionel Richie was honored with the Icon Award for his career contributions to the music industry.
Elton John took home his first AMA win since 1988 for best collaboration with Dua Lipa, becoming the longest-recognised artist in the awards show’s history.
Congrats to ELVIS and the Baz Luhrmann team

(News, Source;ElvisDayByDay/EIN)

Cover artwork - The Chicago Blues - Elvis Encore Performance VII: Joseph Tunzi has released the artwork for the 7th volume in his popular series, Elvis Encore Performance.
This book will feature photos from Elvis' performance at the Chicago Stadium on June 17, 1972.. It will come with a bonus 2023 "pocket" Elvis calendar.

Priced at US$69.95 (plus Shipping)

Visit the JAT site

(News, Source: JAT)

Best Picture frontrunners (as of Nov 2022)
'ELVIS'
'The Banshees of Inisherin'
'Black Panther: Wakanda Forever'
'Everything Everywhere All at Once'
'The Fabelmans'
'Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio'
'TÁR'
'Top Gun: Maverick'
'The Woman King'
'Women Talking'

'ELVIS: Prodigy of Sun Records' AT THE PRINTERS! Elvis Files'  Erik Lorentzen has posted the great news that his stunning 2-book 800-page project with Robert van Beek is at the printers and with the Release date set for December 8 2022!
After all last year's covid delays this is impressive. He notes both Volumes #1 1935-1954 and #2 1955 are printed.
Go to ELVIS FILES to place your order now and have a chance to win a free promo single.
Hundreds of hours of research gives an overall picture of the boy who became a king. Many new quality photos have been purchased, you will be amazed at the mass of information that has come to light.
(News, Source;EL/ElvisFiles /ElvisInfoNet) 

(Interview) Madeleine Wilson, author of the new book Elvis Presley, Gospel Singer – An Inspirational Life, talks to EIN: In an absorbing discussion, Madeleine Wilson sheds light on (among other things):

• the importance of faith to Elvis;
• how he incorporated that faith into his daily life;
• Elvis straying from commitment to his faith;
• why Elvis continued to search for meaning throughout his life;
• how his Hollywood years affected his connection to his faith;
• religious groups based around Elvis;
• Elvis’ inspirational recordings;
• Things about Elvis we don’t know vis a vis the Wanda June Hill tapes, and Elvis and Tommy Steele’s tour of London; and
• Madeleine’s views on Baz Luhrmann’s colorful, Elvis, biopic.  

Read Madeleine’s full interview

(Interview, Source:NigelPatterson/EIN)

'How Great Thou Art' Elvis On Tour Interview: A neatly timed 'On Tour' promo to coincide with our interview about 'Elvis: Gospel Singer'.
EIN readers should enjoy this as it features Ernst Jorgensen and audio engineer Matt Ross-Spang again listening to the session tapes and talking about why 'How Great Thou Art' would have meant so much to Elvis at this point in his career.

(News, Source;EOT/ElvisInfoNet)

(Book Review) Elvis For Vinyl Fans Only Vinyl Discography from Eastern Europe Yugoslavia * Romania (Piotr Soczynski): To date, Polish author Piotr Soczynski has published eight (one more to come) Elvis discographies. His first four books were two volumes chronicling Elvis’ demo and acetate records and two volumes detailing his U.S. Army vinyl records.
His most recent books have been discographies of Elvis’ music released in Eastern European countries.
All eight books are high quality “coffee table” hardcovers full of color and information for all fans, but particularly serious collectors.

EIN’s Nigel Patterson recently selected one of Piotr’s books to review.
You can read his detailed review here - with plenty of fascinating Eastern Europe vinyl images.

(Book Review, Source: ElvisInformationNetwork)

(Interview) Mariusz Ogieglo talks to EIN (and Elvis Day By Day): Mariusz Ogieglo may not be a familiar name to many fans outside Europe, but he founded the popular Elvis: Promised Land blog in 2011 and has written three books about Elvis. His most recent book is Elvis: Wszystkie Plyty Krola 1966-1977 (Elvis: All The King’s Records).

In a wide ranging and intriguing interview, Mariusz discusses how Elvis has been viewed in Poland (during and after Communist rule in the country), how difficult it was to obtain Elvis records before Poland’s transition to democracy, the lengths some fans went to in order to listen to Elvis’ music, Polish media and Elvis, Elvis’ biggest selling record in Poland, Mariusz’s three books about Elvis, and more.
Read the full interview

(Interview, Source:ElvisInfoNet/EDBD)

(Book Review) Elvis Live At The International 50th Anniversary Edition (Kieran Davis): In 2011, Kieran Davis released the highly praised book, Elvis Live At The International. In 2022, he has published an expanded 50th Anniversary edition…and what an expansion it is!
The latest edition dwarfs the original with 432 pages compared to 172 in the original release.
And the added 250+ pages of additional material is stunning, making the 50th Anniversary release one of the best Elvis books published in 2022.

As its title reflects, the book covers Elvis' appearances at the International Hotel in Las Vegas between 1969 and 1971 (it was renamed the Las Vegas Hilton in July 1971). The narrative element is significantly based around fan, Peggy Elzea’s copious diaries, and a bumper array of archival material. Peggy’s experience seeing Elvis in Las Vegas is one every fan will envy.
There is so much fascinating information and so many striking images in the book that it is hard to know where to start in describing it...

Read Nigel Patterson’s detailed 2,700 words review

(Book Review, Source:ElvisInformationNetwork)

'ELVIS: From Vegas to Tahoe' 1973 FTD Review: Released in July as a 3-CD 5” digi-pak, this set features three 1973 midnight shows recorded on January 27 / February 21 (Las Vegas Hilton) and May 12 1973 (High Sierra Theatre, Sahara Hotel, Lake Tahoe).

Elvis was still in good form in 1973 and all three are ‘Midnight Shows’ making them all the more interesting. Including You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me, Steamroller Blues, I’m Leavin’, What Now My Love and I’ll Remember You, this could be a very enjoyable set....
Two of the shows are however lesser quality "sound-booth" recordings rather than soundboards. With some noticeable audience laughing and talking, can this 3-CD set really be an essential purchase?
Go here as Elvis soundboard super-collector Geoffrey McDonnell and EIN's Piers Beagley check out this new FTD triple-pack from 1973....
(FTD Reviews, Source;GM/ElvisInformationNetwork)

'ELVIS' DVD, BluRay, 4K OUT Now: Baz Luhrmann's 'ELVIS' movie now released as DVD, BluRay and 4K Blu Ray, out September 13.
The BluRay review includes,, The 1080p transfer offers a very crisp and faithful representation of Elvis' specific appearance. Cinematographer Mandy Walker reportedly shot the entire film .. with custom "Elvis" lenses made from special glass. Meant to evoke the era in which it represents this formula genuinely produces an image evocative of a classic cinematic appearance. With the addition of artificial film grain, the illusion is even more convincing. Still, this is ultimately a purely digital image through and through, and one with a varied color palette that ranges from dark and muted to almost candy-colored in its overall intensity, especially in some of the specific background elements by costume and production designer Catherine Martin.
Bonus features include
- Bigger Than Life: The Story of Elvis (22:22) The challenges and joys of adapting Elvis' life for the big screen.
- Rock 'N Roll Royalty: The Music and Artists Behind ELVIS (7:33)
- Fit for a King: The Style of Elvis (8:02) - An overview of the iconic stage outfits and period clothing used in the film.
- Viva Australia: Recreating Iconic Locations for Elvis (7:26).
- "Trouble" Lyric Video (2:15).
- Musical Moments (19 clips, 46:19 total) All of the music segments.
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet/Bluray.com)

(Book Review) Elvis The King of the Rings Volume 2 (Paul Bélard): The second volume of Paul Bélard’s two volume photo-journal record of Elvis’ love of rings has been released.
While on holiday, EIN’s Nigel Patterson spent a leisurely afternoon perusing the rich narrative detail and jaw dropping, visual splendor on offer....

... They say first impressions last! The cover image of Elvis’ famous TCB ring is truly striking and sets the tone for what is an impressive examination of another 100+ rings that Elvis owned during his lifetime.
This is more than a photo-book and while the mostly colour images dominate, the narrative component contains valuable and interesting information...

This is Nigel’s detailed review- including nine stunning images from the book
(Book Review, Source: ElvisInformationNetwork)

Book Review: 'Elvis Presley, Gospel Singer – An Inspirational Life' (Madeleine Wilson): This new book differentiates itself by being a “Christian biography” where Elvis’ life and career is considered within the prism of his faith and love of gospel music.
It is a long overdue release which covers seminal factors that defined Elvis Presley the person, and Elvis Presley the artist.

... Elvis, “The King”, many times said publicly that there is only one King, and that is Jesus Christ. He not only acknowledged the Lord but also worshipped Him and prayed to Him, often.
(Madeleine Wilson)

It has been said that the formula of a great tragedy is that a fatal flaw prevents tremendous potential from being realized, and the ending is one of ruin not of joy.
In many ways, the life story of Elvis Presley can be seen as one of tragedy…

Read Nigel Patterson’s detailed review.

(Book Review, Source:ElvisInformationNetwork)

‘ELVIS ON TOUR’ Official Announcement: The official SONY announcement has now been posted. EIN was correct with our news item yesterday and the release date is December 2, 2022
... 'Elvis On Tour' is a 6CD + 1 Blu-ray box set comprised of the audio from four of the shows (and two rehearsals) that were part of Elvis’ 1972 North American tour. Originally recorded for the Elvis On Tour concert film that was released later that year, the set features a total of 145 tracks, including 91 previously unreleased tracks, as well as the award-winning concert film on Blu-ray.
It includes 3 Unreleased Elvis Concerts plus the San Antonio Concert Remixed, Pre-Tour Rehearsals and 'Best Documentary Film' Golden Globe winner film on Blu-ray
Release date Friday, December 2.

Fans can get their first taste with the previously unreleased "Burning Love (Rehearsal 2)" recorded live at RCA Recording Studios in Hollywood in March 1972.
RCA/Legacy's Elvis On Tour box set is produced by Ernst Mikael Jørgensen and mixed by Grammy Award-winning Memphis-based producer Matt Ross-Spang.
The original recordings were made by Felton Jarvis and Al Pachucki.

montage sequences supervised by Martin Scorsese. The film was released on November 1, 1972.
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The Elvis On Tour box set includes fascinating behind-the-scenes liner notes by Jerry Schilling, a longtime personal friend and member of Elvis' inner circle.
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The set also features an illuminating essay by rock historian/musician Warren Zanes, founding member of The Del Fuegos and Professor at New York University. According to Zanes: "The set lists and the performances of the Elvis On Tour period bring a rare thing: a fifties legend working in the early seventies who was still taking his audiences to new places.... "

Go here for FULL Tracklists and More
(News, Source;RCA/ ElvisInfoNet)

13. Edge of Reality (Tame Impala Remix) - Elvis & Tame Impala
14. Power of My Love - Elvis Presley and Jack White
15. Polk Salad Annie (Film Mix) - Elvis Presley
16. Suspicious Minds (Film Edit) - Elvis Presley
17. Burning Love (Film Mix) - Elvis Presley
18. I Got A Feelin' In My Body - Elvis Presley & Stuart Price
19. Don't Fly Away (PNAU Remix) - Elvis Presley & PNAU
20. If I Can Dream - Måneskin
21. Suspicious Minds - Paravi
22. In the Ghetto (World Turns Remix) - Elvis feat. Nardo Wick

(News, Source/ElvisInfoNet)

Interview with actor Adam Dunn / Bill Black in 'ELVIS': Elvis author-researcher, Paul Bélard, interviews actor Adam Dunn who plays Bill Black in Baz Luhrmann's movie 'Elvis'.
The interview is particularly of interest as Paul Bélard recently published the first detailed biography of super-bassist Bill Black.

In the interview Adam Dunn reveals..
- how he got the role,
- how he learnt to play double-bass Bill Black style,
- about meeting Tom Hanks and Austin Butler,
- working with Xavier Samuel and Terepai Richmond who played Scotty and D.J.
- the 'trouble' filming the Russwood Park riot
- and much much more...

Go here for this fascinating Adam Dunn interview - for EIN by Paul Belard..

(Interviews, Source:PB/ElvisInfoNet)

'Elvis: Pine Bluff to Madison '76' FTD In-depth Review: FTD continues their extensive look at Elvis' performances in 1976 with another two previously unreleased concerts. This set features two shows: Pine Bluff Convention Center, September 8, 1976 830pm and Dane County Coliseum, Madison, October 19, 1976 8.30pm.
FTD have already released plenty of soundboards from these two tours including September 6, 1976 Afternoon and Evening shows ‘Elvis In Alabama: The Last Double Date’ and the day before Sioux Falls, Oct 18 (On The Road With Elvis CD2).
By early 1976 Elvis’ set-list had become routine with few surprises along the way and while the Pine Bluff performance has the energy of the Closing show of the tour fans surely don't want to hear Elvis suggest that “we should rehearse more before we tour”!
Elvis soundboard super-collector Geoffrey McDonnell and EIN's Piers Beagley check out this new FTD 1976 double-pack to see whether it is another essential release for your collection.
(FTD Reviews, Source;GM/ElvisInformationNetwork)

(Book Review) Destined To Fly: The Story of Pilot Ron Strauss – From Iowa to Elvis (Sally A. Hoedel): In 2020, Sally Hoedel published her first Elvis related book, the acclaimed Destined To Die Young. Ms Hoedel’s second book, the fascinating story of the pilot of Elvis’ Lisa Marie jet, Ron Strauss, is nearing publication (September 2022).

The book includes a fabulous Elvis-related story about Ron Strauss visiting his bank manager to obtain a home mortgage and the time Ron fell asleep in Elvis’ bed will bring a smile to the reader’s face. Other interesting accounts include Ron’s reaction to Elvis carrying a loaded gun on board (in a pressurized cabin), and many readers will appreciate reading how Ron felt about Linda Thompson and Ginger Alden.

EIN’s Nigel Patterson recently took flight with an advance copy. What Nigel found, not only added appreciably to his knowledge of a rarely written about aspect of the Elvis Presley story and provided greater insight as to who Elvis was as a person, but also offered a wonderfully rich and entertaining account of the life and times of the underappreciated, Ron Strauss.

Read Nigel’s full review

(Book Review: Source:ElvisInformationNetwork)

'Elvis UK Cover Story' Book Review: Elvis experts John Townson and Gordon Minto recently published their new (digital) book 'Elvis UK Cover Story: The Ultimate Guide To Elvis Presley's British EP & LP Sleeves 1956-1977' designed to add to and complement their original 'Elvis UK' book.
It is a 286 page, fully comprehensive book, providing the ultimate guide to Elvis’s EP and LP album sleeves released in the UK between 1956-1977.
Extensively illustrated in full colour and arranged in sections, this book addresses a wide range of topics including back cover photos, printing companies, sleeve notes, etc.
There are extended sections including 'Front Cover – Fact File', and 'For UK Fans Only' an in-depth study of those albums that originated in the UK, or were only ever available in the UK.
It includes a wealth of background info incorporated into the text.
It is a downloadable digital flip-book stored on your own device.
Reading through this fact-filled investigation, the amazing thing EIN discovered was just how many sleeve variations, UK only releases, and cheap RCA / Parker design decisions there were.
For the world’s biggest superstar some of their marketing decisions were truly bewildering. And some of their design choices total madness.

EIN's Piers Beagley spent plenty of time enjoying the craziness of RCA's vinyl marketing though the ages - as well as spinning his old UK vinyl .. see his review...
(Book Reviews: Source;ElvisInfoNet)

'Aloha From Hawaii' Deluxe FTD indepth Review: When seeking Elvis' key career highpoints, if one goes by the sales and the audience viewing numbers, there is only one answer. Aloha From Hawaii Via Satellite. RCA’s double album of the show was released throughout the world in February 1973 and shot to the #1 spot in many countries including the U.S. It is certified 5x Platinum by the RIAA.
While in 2013 RCA/ Legacy released the '40th Anniversary edition' sadly the audio of the main concert left much to be desired.
In 2022 FTD released this upgraded 'Aloha From Hawaii' set with Matt Ross-Spang remixing the original broadcast - plus including the full after-concert 3am 'Insert Song' session in a 3-CD set. In 'large-size 8" format with 24 page booklet it is a stunning package.

However EIN has had numerous requests for a detailed review of this Aloha set as fans haven't been able to decide whether it is worth buying (for US$65) all over again.
To help, EIN's Piers Beagley provides an indepth review to see whether it is really worth buying one more time....
(FTD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

(Interview) Alanna Nash talks to EIN: With the recent reissue of her best-selling book, 'The Colonel: The Extraordinary Story of Colonel Tom Parker and Elvis Presley', renowned author, Alanna Nash, took time out of her busy schedule to discuss Elvis, the Colonel and other related issues with EIN’s Nigel Patterson, Elvis Day By Day’s Kees Mouwen, and prolific Elvis author, Paul Bélard.

In her candid interview, Alanna provides insightful commentary about the Colonel’s early years before coming to America, when he lost his way in promoting Elvis, the controversial source Byron Raphael, Lamar Fike’s finding about the rumor the Colonel was involved in the death of a woman in Holland, why Elvis didn’t take more control of his career, the new Baz Luhrmann 'ELVIS' biopic and much, much more...

Read Alanna’s fascinating interview

(Interview, Source:EIN/EDBD/PB)

MRS 'Elvis: Mono To Stereo 1956' CD Review: At the end of last year the UK based MRS label released their Double CD/ Book 'Elvis: Mono To Stereo - The Complete RCA Studio Masters 1956'.
The set contains the complete 1956 RCA studio master recordings in mono and (DES extracted) stereo versions. These were thirty classic RCA recordings that would help change the future of popular music.
The accompanying 20-page booklet includes photographs and memorabilia plus introductory notes.
While 'DES Stereo' remastering can sometimes reveal new details about classic MONO studio recordings, trying to create believable stereo from echoey mono masters is not that easy, even when using "highly advanced sound processing techniques".
Can classic mono tracks such as 'Hound Dog', 'Don't Be Cruel', 'My Baby Left Me' and 'Heartbreak Hotel' really sound better in DES stereo?

EIN's Piers Beagley put on some good quality headphones to provide an in-depth review of this recent MRS release.
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

(Book Review) 'Don't Be Cruel, Elvis: The Bill Black Story': It is easy to forget that, in the beginning, Elvis was only one part of a trio put together by Sam Phillips, which included Bill Black on bass and Scotty Moore on lead guitar.
The unique sound that emerged from their early sessions was the result of a close collaboration of like-minded musicians and an engineer who wanted to generate something as yet unheard.
Bill Black's contribution to Elvis’ success went beyond the bass playing. His antics on stage — twirling his bass, riding it as if it was a bronco to be tamed, trading corny jokes with Elvis — delighted the audiences. Scotty confirmed that, “If it hadn’t been for Bill, we would have bombed many times in the early days.”
Memphis Mansion’s Henrik Knudsen fortuitously befriended Bill Black's family and was entrusted with the family’s treasured scrapbook.
Using this key source, plus the investigative power of author Paul Belard, key rock'n'roll bassman Bill Black finally gets the biography he deserves with this impressive 260 page book.

Packed full of rare photos, great stories and interviews, EIN's Piers Beagley spent some quality time enjoying this very fine tribute to "Blackie" a great musician and a true character ... go here to find out more..
(Book Review, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

Interview 'The Airplanes & The King' with Carlos Varrenti & Robert Van Beek: As promised a few months ago, the extremely well-received spanish book 'The Airplanes & The King' by Carlos Varrenti is now being republished as an English version.
Not only that but it has now been expanded to an amazing 400 pages with a lot of unreleased material from Elvis Files' vaults!
The English version is printed as a High quality Hardback book.
Printed and distributed by The Elvis Files Team, EIN has seen some preview pages and it is an absolute stunner.

EIN is delighted to be able to talk with the author Carlos Varrenti - as well as Elvis Files designer Robert Van Beek to find out more.

We find out more about Carlos Varrenti's Argentinian background, how he came to be involved with designer Robert Van Beek and The Elvis Files for the expanded reprint, what highlights are in the book and what new stories fans will be able to discover within the covers.
Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley asked the questions..

(Interview, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

EIN Interview with Mike Stone: Mike Stone has had a long and successful career in athletics, in the entertainment business, as an author, sports instructor, bodyguard and personal fitness trainer.
Mike Stone was also a key figure in the emotional roller-coaster that described Elvis and Priscilla Presley's lives in the seventies.
In this exclusive EIN interview Priscilla's ex-partner, karate champion and author talks about his amazing life, including...
- Meeting Elvis and Priscilla
- Hawaii, Elvis and Karate
- Being Phil Spector's bodyguard
- Sitting next to John Lennon recording
- Priscilla and karate
- Fans blaming him for Elvis' marriage split-up
- Elvis putting a "Hit" out on him
- Finding peace in the Philippines
- His new autobiography

EIN was delighted to be able to finally talk with the man and find out more. EIN's Piers Beagley asked the questions..

(Interviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

‘TTWII 50th Anniversary Collectors Edition’ FTD Book Review: FTD's most expensive set ever published, David English and Pal Granlund bring the complete background story of 'Elvis: That's The Way It Is'. Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the movie's 1970 release, this ultimate collector's edition includes two hardback books, eight cds with over 450 minutes of music, including newly discovered unreleased performances.
With access to 2,000 original negatives and 35mm slides, restored and repaired, many of which have never been seen before, the book also contains items from the MGM and RCA archives including paperwork, documents, memos and recording information.
Two books, 600 pages, plus all the MGM recorded rehearsals - including 70 tracks officially unreleased.
FTD's most expensive set but with the vast majority of the rehearsals already out on bootleg, can it really be worth the US$270 plus postage. Initially Sold Out and already into its first reprint what makes it so desirable?
EIN's Piers Beagley investigates and discovers plenty .. Go here to our 6000 word review including plenty of extracts and stunning images.
(FTD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

'What was Elvis searching for?' EIN Spotlight: The question is raised – but never answered – in the title of HBO’s recent absorbing, imperfect documentary 'Elvis Presley: The Searcher'.
At the start it seems clear what the teenage Elvis was searching for – an escape from the oblivion of poverty in the American South. Yet his quest was cultural as well as financial.
Later Elvis read obsessively, seeking out such books as The Impersonal Life, Joseph Brenner’s guide to self-discovery and Kahil Gibran’s book of fables, The Prophet. In his copy of Gibran’s tome, Elvis jotted down the line: “A singer can sing his songs but he must have an ear to receive the song”.
So what exactly was Elvis searching for? In this fascinating EIN Spotlight respected author Paul Simpson takes a close look at this all important question which, for some reason, was basically ignored in the recent HBO documentary..

(Spotlight, Source;PaulSimpson/ElvisInformationNetwork)