Welcome to the "Elvis Information Network", home to the best news, reviews, interviews, Elvis photos & in-depth articles about the King of Rock & Roll, Elvis Aaron Presley...
Anita Wood (Brewer) had died: Very sad news that Anita Marie Brewer (Anita Wood) died Thursday morning of pneumonia at St. Dominics Hospital in Jackson, MS. She was 85.
Anita was born on May 27, 1938, to the late WA and Dorothy Wood in Bells, TN.
In her teens Anita Wood became a media personality, later radio dj and singer, she recorded for Sam Phillips' iconic Sun label and subsequently for the also Memphis based Santo label. She first met Elvis in July 1957 when she was on Wink Martindale's 'Top 10 Dance Party' Memphis tv show. George Klein introduced her to Elvis who invited her to Graceland. They became serious dates from 1957, through the army years, to 1962. Wood signed a contract to work for Paramount Pictures but gave it up to be with Elvis.
Later she married NFL football player Johnny Brewer for 46 years from 1965 until his death in 2011. She devoted her life to children. Anita raised three of her own and taught hundreds more as a preschool teacher at Woodlawn Baptist Kindergarten and Day Care. She was beloved by the children she taught and still had many of their pictures and notes among her possessions. She is survived by her daughter, Jonnita Barrett and husband Chad of FL, sons John Brewer Jr. and Sean Brewer. She had 11 grandchildren.
Memorial services will be held on Sunday, July 2, 2023, at Fisher Riles Funeral Home, 5000 Indiana Ave, Vicksburg, MS.
Back in 2012 Marty Lacker told EIN, "Anita was absolutely great for Elvis because she exhibited a real love for him and understood him very much back then. Fact is Anita was a lot like Elvis' mother in that regard. She is basically and fundamentally a good and friendly person who also got along greatly with those of us in the Memphis Mafia and was not threatened by us always being there.
I strongly believe that if Elvis had married Anita his life would have been much better and more enjoyable for him as well as her and would have turned out to be very different with him possibly not dying at such an early age. .. Anita was in the top two girls that Elvis dated - with that opinion of course based on our close, first hand observations.
Anita is still that good person to this day." RIP Anita Wood 1938 - 2023
For more read EIN's detailed review ofher book 'Elvis and Anita' (News, Source:vicksburgnews/ElvisInfoNet)
'Elvis News Report July 2023': Elvis super-fan Emiel Maier presents all the recent news including.. Riley Keough and Graceland, Priscilla's morbid request, James Burton back on stage (+ great footage), New FTD releases, Tupelo Museum upgrade and much much more..
Clever marketing: 'Captain Marvel Jr. "Hail to the King"': We all know that Elvis was an avid comic book reader in his younger years and Captain Marvel Jr. (the world's mightiest boy) was his favorite comic book. It would later influence the lightning bolt on his TCB emblem and his jumpsuits and capes. The connection also featured in Baz Luhrmann's 'ELVIS' biopic last year.
Mini-Komix has recently reissued many of the Captain Marvel Jr. stories in book form. In promotion for one of the releases, "Hail to the King", the publisher uses both the title and pr blurb to give the impression that the release has some significance re Elvis. The blurb:
'Capt. Marvel Jr.: Long Live The King starring the superhero that inspired Elvis Presley! Freddy Freeman shouts "Shazam" to transform into the World's Mightiest Boy. Captain Marvel Junior tangles with trolls, stops spoil-sports, wrestles with the world's mightiest whale, struggle with a swamp monster, helps out the Weather Man, going back to the days of Robin Hood, and meets himself from the future. 80 pages of electrifying adventures from the Golden Age of comics!'
By all accounts, there is no Elvis content featured in the book which contains a series of stories from the original Captain Marvel Jr. comics in the 1940s. Still, some collectors may find it an interesting, but atypical, inclusion in their Elvis library (and I dare say for many, it will bring back wonderful childhood memories). (News, Source: Mini-Komix; Lulu)
'Reinventing Elvis: The '68 Comeback Special' New Doco: Elvis is coming to Paramount+. The new feature-length documentary 'Reinventing Elvis: The '68 Comeback Special' will premiere exclusively on Paramount+ Tuesday, August 15 in the US and Canada and internationally on Wednesday, August 16 in the UK, Latin America, Brazil, France, Germany, Switzerland, Austria and Italy.
.. When the show initially aired on December 3, 1968, the special was the most-watched television event of the year as nearly half of the TV-watching audience tuned in to see Presley. He famously wore a black leather suit, delivered memorable performances and reinvigorated his career.
After the huge success of the recent ELVIS biopic, '68 Comeback Special' director Steve Binder lends his firsthand knowledge of how it all came together for the new documentary directed by John Scheinfeld and produced by Spencer Proffer's Meteor 17.
Originally pitched to NBC by Presley's notoriously controlling manager, Col. Tom Parker, as a Christmas special, the telecast instead morphed into a celebration of the singer's influences and early years as a rock 'n' roll firebrand. Although that shift in direction made Parker furious, Binder and Presley remained true to their shared vision and successfully sidelined the manager during the months-long production process.
"We were mirrors of each other," Binder muses now. "We had the same internal fire and were willing to put in the work. My whole experience with Elvis was positive, from the very first day I met him to the very last day we said goodbye, and I never saw or talked with him again. You're constantly hearing this yin and yang about him, that he was a great guy and he was also a womanizer. But I just want to live with my experience from '68 where I really loved the guy."
Reinventing Elvis takes a deeper dive into the making of the Comeback Special, featuring interviews from some of the surviving performers and audience members, as well as Presley experts placing it in the context of the times and the singer's career. But as the filmmakers knew, Binder remains the final authority on this particular slice of rock history.
The now-90- year-old director shares some new stories from his one-on-one collaboration with Presley, and why he thinks that Tom Hanks should have gotten an Oscar nomination for his divisive portrayal of Parker in Elvis.
Binder explains that Elvis lived on the NBC studio lot during the shoot while his wife, Priscilla Presley, and their then-newborn daughter, Lisa Marie, were living elsewhere.
"Elvis had rented a home for Priscilla and the baby in Beverly Hills, and didn't want to waste time traveling back and forth".
Binder also doesn't recall any personal set visits from Presley's wife and daughter during the months-long shoot.
In fact, he didn't have his first meeting with Lisa Marie - who passed away in January - until decades later and even then it was over the phone. "Lisa Marie called me up one day and said she was very disturbed with all these rumors going around that Elvis may still be alive. This was when she was still married to Michael Jackson. She wanted to take on the press, but I advised her not to do that. I said, 'That's what they want you to do. Just let it happen and it'll eventually burn out.' Which it did."
That call was Binder's only contact with Presley's daughter, but he says that he's a big fan of the singer's granddaughter, Riley Keough. "She's sensational: I've never met her, but she's a terrific actress. I think it might almost be a detriment that she's so tied to her grandfather, because she can make it on her own. She's that talented."
As a consultant on Luhrmann's ELVIS, Binder had the surreal experience of watching his own
history repeat itself as drama with movie's stellar recreation of the Comeback Special. .... "Baz and I became very close during the making of the film - but I acknowledge some "creative license". For instance, I was never at the Hollywood sign. In fact the only times I ever saw Elvis during the entire production was at my offices on the Sunset Strip, at NBC and at United Western Recorders where we did the orchestra soundtracks. But that was it, otherwise we never went anywhere."
Despite those liberties, Binder counts himself as a big fan of Luhrmann's ELVIS."Overall I was really pleased with it and I thought it served its purpose. People have seen it over and over again, and those who were never exposed to Elvis before got to see him."
You can find out even more at Yahoo-Entertainment (News, Source;Paramount/Yahoo)
(New book) Fact vs. Fiction in the 2022 ELVIS Movie: An Unauthorized Scene-by-Scene Analysis: Trina Young, author of Elvis The Army Years Uncovered; Elvis and the Beatles; and Elvis: Behind the Legend, has released her fourth Elvis book. It is described as:
... Finally, all your questions about the 2022 ELVIS movie will be answered!
This book celebrates the film while also examining it for historical accuracy. Learn the backstory of the film, how Austin Butler was chosen to play Elvis Presley, how director Baz Luhrmann came up with the idea for the movie, how the Presley family was involved, and much more about the filmmaking process -- plus a detailed scene-by-scene analysis of the film exploring what is true and what is not true in the movie.
Fact vs. Fiction in the 2022 ELVIS Movie contains meticulous research by Trina Young, the author of three other books on Elvis Presley. Out of respect for Elvis, this book clears up any misleading information or artistic license that may confuse people between what is shown in the film and what is true Elvis history. The purpose of this book is to offer a balanced side to the story.
Learn the answers to these questions from the storyline of the movie including:
* Was Elvis really stuck in a "cage" in Las Vegas?
* Was the portrayal of Elvis' parents accurate?
* Did Elvis ever hang out with BB King, Little Richard, or Sister Rosetta Tharpe?
* Was Colonel Parker really an evil villain as portrayed in the film?
* What did Priscilla Presley, Lisa Marie Presley and Riley Keough love about the movie?
* How did fate play a part in getting Austin Butler the lead role?
* Why were other women in Presley's life excluded?
* What did Baz Luhrmann wish he could have included in the movie?
* What do Priscilla and Jerry Schilling really think of the Colonel?
* How limited was the focus on Presley's entourage or "Memphis Mafia"?
* Did Elvis fire Parker when he was onstage?
* How did Presley's living relatives and former girlfriends feel about the movie?
* A NEW ELVIS REVELATION TO ELVIS HISTORY - who really discovered Elvis?
and much more!
"In its 2 hours and 39 minutes of screen time, the ELVIS movie covered so many fascinating and controversial facts and details about Presley's life that I wanted to delve into. At first, I considered doing a series of articles about the film. But then I realized there was so much to cover that it would make more sense to go through the entire film, scene by scene, and address, in book format, how accurate the story is to Elvis' true history. My goal is not to criticize the movie, but rather complement it by presenting the related background, context and chronology to what is portrayed in the film. When watching the movie in digital format, it is amazing how many details and historical references can be found on multiple viewings. It's likely that many generations to come will first learn about Elvis from this movie, and this book will help people get the answers to all the questions they may have." - Trina Young, author
The book also includes an 8-page photo section and is available in both softcover and Kindle formats.
EIN will publish a review of 'Fact vs. Fiction' and a deep-dive Trina Young interview about the movie very soon. (News, Source: Trina Young/EIN)
(New book) History of Elvis Presley in Playlists: Another new release (softcover and Kindle) with a very suspect cover image. It is part of the Playlist Journeys in Apple Music series and is described as: ... Elvis Presley remains an iconic figure in the world of music, captivating audiences with his unique style and leaving an indelible mark on popular culture. In recognition of his enduring popularity, this book offers a series of meticulously curated playlists that cover his remarkable career, from his early breakthrough in the mid-1950s to his untimely death in 1977. Recognizing that Elvis's musical style may not appeal to everyone, the curator of this collection took care to cater to different preferences. The primary focus throughout is on listenability, ensuring that the playlists flow seamlessly and resonate with the audience.
To provide a comprehensive exploration of Elvis's diverse body of work, his career is divided into several categories: "Before the Army," "After the Army," "Gospel/Christmas," "Hollywood Soundtracks," "Later Studio," "Live," and "Alternate Tracks."
This is not just a book but a gateway to a world of musical exploration. It celebrates the enduring popularity and influence of Elvis Presley, inviting readers to discover and rediscover his iconic recordings... (News, Source: Amazon)
David Stanley apologises for derogatory remarks: Tabloid media recently had a field day with comments made by Elvis’ youngest stepbrother, David Stanley, in the Amazon Prime documentary series, Elvis’ Women.
Stanley stated: ‘I believe Elvis just couldn't go on. He premeditated taking the medications that killed him. Love, hurt, pain, exposure — he just couldn't take it anymore.'
He also said: 'His taste for young girls, aged 15 or 16, made me sick. I told him that it's a miracle he didn't get busted. He got away with things most people didn't, because of his money, fortune, fame and power, charisma and magnetism. Elvis could talk the socks off you.'
In response to the comments, Elvis fans lit up social media expressing their anger at him. What followed was his backdown apology: 'There is no excuse for my comments, and I can fully understand why you would be angered. I love and will always love Elvis and being part of his family. He is more than worthy of the love you have for him. He loved you. I love you and all I can ask of you is for you to forgive me for my irresponsible actions."
((Un)Fortunately 'Elvis’ Women' is not available on Amazon Prime Australia for EIN to be able to check out this tabloid twaddle)
You can however read EIN's 2012 interview with David Stanley here (News, Source: Daily Mail, Daily Express et al)
Great buy on ebay – 250 issues of Rex Martin’s Worldwide Elvis News Service weekly newsletter: After strong bidding, one lucky buyer recently acquired more than 250 issues (#’s 101-355) of Rex Martin’s legendary newsletter that was shipped weekly to fans all around the world in the pre-Internet age.
'Crazy Little Thing Called Love' – Freddie Mercury and Elvis: Like many artists of his generation, Freddie Mercury grew up listening to Elvis Presley. He believed that copying Elvis’ songs made him a better writer and had a great deal of admiration for Elvis. In 1979 Mercury would write a song that sounded so much like Elvis some people thought it was one of his songs.
Queen's Brian May stated, “It’s Freddie’s tribute to Elvis in a way. Freddie was very fond of Elvis.”
Mercury said that even though he didn’t intend for it to happen, he sang like Elvis in the song.
“My voice does sound a bit like Elvis’s on ‘Crazy Little Thing Called Love'. That wasn’t something I was trying to do, it’s all sung rather low, so then you soon come close to Elvis, especially with such a 50s-type song. I don’t mind telling you that my girlfriend thought it was a cover song, but that is absolutely not true. I wrote it … while taking a bath.”
Crazy Little Thing Called Love’ does sound like an Elvis track and was an incredibly successful tribute to Elvis, to the point that people believed it was an Elvis song. Written in 1979, two years after Elvis' death, it captured the spirit of ‘50s rock ‘n’ roll. Mercury’s vocals and intonation were very similar to Elvis. In addition, the guitar and drums had a bouncing, hip-shaking quality that would have fit in well with Elvis’ catalog.
Brian May confirmed, “I think the sounds that [sound engineer Reinhold] Mack managed to get, these very elemental, very real sounds, ambient sounds in the studio had a big contribution to make. It does sound very authentic, everything about it is sort of like original rock and roll sounding.”
Freddie Mercury explained that he learned to write songs by copying Elvis…“I think I always liked to sing but I didn’t look upon it as a career. When I was a little baby I was in the choir and I just liked to sing. I would copy Elvis Presley songs, then I suddenly realised that I could actually write songs and make my own music. Call it a natural gift, or whatever.” ('A Life in His Own Words'), ‘Crazy Little Thing Called Love’ was Queen’s first Number One Billboard single and reached #2 on the UK Singles Chart.
While Mercury was never able to meet Elvis in person, it’s clear that the Elvis' music had a big impact on his career. Freddie however got to meet Lisa Marie Presley.
In 1980 Lisa Marie who lived in LA with Priscilla went to watch Queen at The Forum in Inglewood, California.
Lisa Marie told the story that, “I remember bringing Freddie Mercury a scarf of my Dad’s and I gave it to him after the show. I loved it. I loved the theatrics. I loved Freddie. I thought Queen were awesome.” (News, Source: Emma McKee, cheatsheet.com/ElvisInfoNet)
Monday 26 June 2023
Elvis, Ann-Margret, the filming of Viva Las Vegas (aka 'Love in Las Vegas'), the slap heard across Hollywood, (and more): The story of the behind-the-scenes filming of Elvis’ best and highest grossing film, Viva Las Vegas (released in 1964), is colorful, and one that had repercussions for Elvis’ subsequent films as well as a rare loss for Colonel Tom Parker.
Drawing on a wide range of sources, EIN’s Nigel Patterson takes a reflective look at the drama between star, manager, Ann-Margret, Viva Las Vegas film director and what it all meant.
New Book 'Elvis Watches' by Paul Belard: Coming soon a new book from Elvis specialist Paul Belard. Having examined Elvis' love of rings, Paul Belard has now investigated Elvis' fascination with watches.
... Elvis liked expensive things: cars, motorcycles, clothes, jewelry, and watches. His watches befitted a king. Some were given to him, such as the 18 karat white gold and diamond Tiffany Omega wristwatch RCA gave him on February 25, 1961 to commemorate the sale of 75 million records around the world reached in 1960.
On another occasion, Elvis received an 18 karat solid gold Midas Rolex watch from the Houston Livestock and Rodeo Officers, March 1st, 1970. It was Rolex’s most expensive production at that time, retailing for $2,500.
As with other items belonging to him, Elvis gave away some of them, regardless of their value. I often wondered why Elvis was giving away so many of his things. Yes, he was rich. He had everything he could want. But plenty of well-to-do people do not give anything away. As a matter of fact, for some enough is never enough. So I remained puzzled....
This book looks at the watches Elvis owned at one time, in all probability only a fraction. Several, particularly the ones he gave away, have appeared at auctions, offering us the opportunity to admire them. Some are truly one of a kind and gorgeous.
Publishing date and more info coming soon. The examples pages EIN has seen look very interesting.. (News, Source;PB/ElvisInfoNet)
Friday 23 June 2023
“Virtual” Elvis Week 2023: For fans who are unable to visit Memphis for Elvis Week 2023, EPE announced that Virtual Elvis Week will return again this year! Virtual Elvis Week 2023 August 9-16, will allow viewers to celebrate via online experience with live concert events, Conversations with special guests, ETA contests and unique fan experiences.
Highlights include an Elvis Music Salute, Elvis ’68 Special and Aloha from Hawaii events, Conversations on Elvis, and A Celebration of Lisa Marie among others.
All shows included in each pass can be watched live, plus every event is rewatchable for 10 days - unlike last year - so fans can relive their favorite moments again and again.
There are three Virtual Elvis Week Pass options: The Elvis Super Fan Pass, The Elvis Tribute Artist Pass, and The Elvis Fan Pass.
The Elvis Super Fan Pass is the premium offering ($225) for the Elvis fan who doesn’t want to miss a thing. This pass features virtual access to all 9 Sound-stage events on Aug 9-16. Everything from ETA shows, concerts, conversations on Elvis and more! PLUS the special bonus of a pre-recorded virtual tour of Graceland the Entertainment Complex hosted by Angie Marchese, Graceland’s VP of Archives. The Elvis Tribute Artist Pass ($130) features access to the main Elvis tribute artist shows. The Elvis Fan Pass ($130) features access to five key events, Elvis Music Salute, ’68 Special Enhanced Screening, Conversations on Elvis, A Celebration of Lisa Marie and Elvis: Aloha from Hawaii 50th Anniv Concert.
For additional details and to purchase a pass, visit VirtualElvisWeek.com. (News, Source: Business Wire/EPE/ElvisInfoNet)
‘Just horrific’ - EPE officials “apparently” slam new ‘Priscilla’ film: According to media reports, EPE has slammed the upcoming Priscilla biopic. Officials from Elvis Presley Estate are criticizing the upcoming “Priscilla” biopic – based on Priscilla famous memoir, “Elvis and Me” – for being a “money grab.”
The Sofia Coppola-directed film, which stars Jacob Elordi and Cailee Spaeny, was reportedly “produced without the Estate’s knowledge or consent,” estate officials claimed to TMZ. “It feels like a college movie. The set designs are just horrific, it’s not what Graceland looks like,” one official told the outlet.
The officials further slammed Coppola, who both wrote and directed the upcoming movie, for doing an overall “horrible” job.
Priscilla however disagreed with those unnamed officials and had nothing but positive things to say about Coppola and the film.
She told TMZ, “I am very excited to see the interpretation of my book by the masterful Sofia Coppola. She has such an extraordinary perspective and I have always been such an admirer of her work. I’m certain this movie will take everyone on an emotional journey.”
Yet an Elvis estate insider doubled down on claims that Priscilla is just in it for the money.
“Everyone here was shocked when we read Priscilla’s release, she’s talking as if she hasn’t seen the movie and seen what a piece of garbage it is,” the source told Page Six. “This is just another example of Priscilla squeezing every dollar out of her relationship with Elvis and not caring about the ramifications.”
The movie – set to premiere in October – follows Priscilla and Elvis’ love story, from meeting when she was just a teenager to their “long courtship and turbulent marriage”..
EIN comment: These reports are strange. For EPE to say it wasn’t aware of the film doesn’t hold up to scrutiny - Priscilla is involved with EPE and in any case the film was announced and widely publicized last year (were EPE officials living under a rock?). As for Priscilla just being in it for the money, has EPE looked in the mirror recently?
In EIN’s opinion, EPE, if representatives did comment, should have remained silent on the matter – forming a view based on a short, teaser trailer is problematic. Calling it a “piece of garbage” is extreme (based on the available footage) and not what we would expect to hear from a representative of EPE! And also, why would Priscilla have necessarily seen the film as its likely in post-production for its October release? At that time, we can all make up our minds on its relative merits.
EIN can’t help feel these reports are another example of unsubstantiated and sensationalist, tabloid journalism.
One thing is certain, Priscilla (the film) is yet again drawing attention to the legacy of Elvis Presley. The late Colonel Tom Parker would be smiling. (News & Comment, Source: C.Blair, Page 6; EIN)
Unknown authors plagiarising Elvis books!: Twice this year EIN has come across new books which turned out to be "rip offs" of already published releases.
The first book was 'Memphis Mafia Royalty' which turned out to be likely a full plagiarization of Shirley Dieu's entertaining memoir, 'Memphis Mafia Princess'. EIN advised Shirley of the duplicity and she in turn locked horns with everyone's favorite bookseller, Amazon, to have the book delisted. Months later Shirley has had no luck and the bogus book is still listed on Amazon sites. In addition, when she tried to publish a review of the book highlighting its "rip off" nature, Amazon denied her post telling her it was against its rules!
Most recently EIN purchased 'Books about Elvis Presley - Exploring gospel music of Elvis and his
life' by Thomas E Alton. To our surprise, it turned out to be a revision of Billy Stanley's book, 'The Faith of Elvis'. In this case, the "new" author has repeated the full contents page but then rewritten text to make it slightly different to the original text. It also appears significant parts of Billy's narrative have been excised to allow a much shorter book, but one that is effectively a distorted mirror image of the original. EIN have advised Billy but is yet to hear back from him. Meanwhile, Thomas Alton has also published other books, begging the question if he has form.
In 2023 with all the copyright and similar laws we have, it is ridiculous that honest authors are unable to satisfactorily protect their works on online book outlets.
It appears that for Amazon, profit over integrity is an underlying business driver. (News, Source: EIN)
Testing AI / ChatGPT "How did controversy affect Elvis' career?": If real authors work are plagiarised (see story above) what would AI/ChatGPT come up with when asked about Elvis and the media reported controversy?
... Controversy played a significant role in shaping Elvis Presley's popularity throughout his career. While Elvis was an immensely popular and influential figure in the world of music, his impact was not without controversy. Here are a few ways in which controversy affected his popularity:
1. Sexualized performances: Elvis's provocative dance moves and suggestive performances, particularly during the early years of his career in the 1950s, drew criticism from conservative sectors of society. Many considered his movements and style to be overly sexual and morally objectionable, especially given the prevailing cultural norms of the time. However, this controversy also helped him gain attention and attract a dedicated fan base, particularly among younger audiences who were drawn to his rebellious image.
2. Racial integration: Elvis's music, heavily influenced by African-American genres such as rhythm and blues and gospel, brought black music to a predominantly white audience. This cultural integration was met with both support and opposition. Some criticized Elvis for appropriating black music without giving due credit to the original artists, while others appreciated his role in bridging
bridging racial divides through music. The controversy surrounding racial integration in the music industry both heightened Elvis's popularity among his fans and generated backlash from certain segments of society.
3. Draft dodging and patriotism: In 1958, Elvis was drafted into the U.S. Army, which interrupted his successful music career. While serving in the military, he was largely seen as fulfilling his patriotic duty. However, controversy arose when he received a controversial promotion to Sergeant, which some perceived as special treatment due to his fame. Additionally, Elvis's subsequent discharge after serving only two years, instead of the standard three, raised eyebrows and led to accusations of preferential treatment. This controversy had a mixed impact on his popularity, with some fans remaining loyal while others viewed his actions as unpatriotic or indicative of celebrity privilege.
4. Drug abuse and declining health: Towards the end of his life, Elvis struggled with drug abuse and faced declining health. Reports of his excessive drug use and erratic behavior became widespread, tarnishing his image and causing concern among his fans. The controversy surrounding his substance abuse and deteriorating physical condition cast a shadow over his popularity, leading some to view him as a tragic figure rather than an icon.
Despite the controversies surrounding Elvis Presley, his talent, charisma, and impact on popular music ensured that he remained a beloved and influential figure. His popularity continued to endure even after his untimely death in 1977, solidifying his status as the "King of Rock 'n' Roll." (News, Source: Chat GPT / EIN)
Wednesday 21 June 2023
'Priscilla' Movie Poster: The publicity notes that "Sofia Coppola is ready to tell Priscilla Presley's side of the story."
Film production company A24 shared the first look at the poster for the writer-director's Priscilla biopic.
The film stars Cailee Spaeny as Priscilla and Jacob Elordi as Elvis.
This movie "follows Priscilla Presley and her life with Elvis Presley". Director Sofia Coppola has previously had major success with films such 'Lost in Translation' and 'The Virgin Suicides'.
This movie is based on Priscilla’s memoir 'Elvis and Me' which reads nothing like the narrative of Coppola's previous successes.
The cast also includes Emily Mitchell as Lisa Marie, Jorja Cadence as Patsy Presley, Rodrigo Fernandez-Stoll as Alan Fortas, Tim Dowler-Coltman as Red West.
Luke Humphrey plays "Terry West" according to publicity which is odd as "Sonny" West's real name was 'Delbert Bryant West' not Terry. Who is Terry?
Coppola explained, "I've had Priscilla's memoir for years and remember reading it a long time ago. I was just so interested in her story and her perspective on what it all felt like to grow up as a teenager in Graceland. She was going through all the stages of young womanhood in such an amplified world, kinda similar to Marie Antoinette."
Principal photography wrapped up early December. WATCH 1st TRAILER HERE on YouTube.
EIN thinks this is not going to be as successful as the Baz Luhrmann ELVIS movie (News, Source;Insta/EIN)
Priscilla reunited with Riley and Lisa Marie's Twins: Priscilla and Riley shared a beautiful picture of them posing with Lisa Marie's twin daughters, finally looking like a reunited happy family.
Priscilla posted this photo on her Instagram page showing her standing alongside her granddaughters' 14-year-old twin sisters, Harper and Finley and Riley Keough, 34. “Happy Graduation girls! You’re now in high school!!!" Priscilla captioned the snap.
Hopefully the court cases and reported family-fights are now over.
Riley will surely be a positive influence for Elvis' legacy as the owner of Graceland.
(News, Source;Insta/EIN)
'The Movie Files Vol.3' Import:The publicity notes... Petticoat records is back! This time with a fantastic vinyl album full of movie classics.
This high quality album (including bonus CD) featuring 18 rare and hard to find alternate versions is now available.
And as always housed in a STUNNING full color sleeve suitable for framing!
This high quality 180 grams virgin vinyl pressing is now available in RED or BLUE vinyl.
Don't miss out on this wonderful limited edition album.
EIN Note: If you consider 'Wisdom Of The Ages', 'Queenie Wahine's Papaya', Adam and Evil' or 'A Dog's Life' as Elvis movie classics please see your doctor!
'Elvis: From King to Legend 72-73' Review: This new documentary is a unique in-depth look at the incredible 12 month period in Elvis' career that is often skipped through in the usual Elvis biopics.
In two parts it has been researched and produced by Elvis super-fan Dennis Laverty.
Once again he has assembled footage, interviews and memorabilia from hundreds of sources. Packed full of rare interviews plus fabulous old TV clips and pertinent commentaries from more than 40 of Elvis' associates.
Laverty explains, “In this documentary you will go on every Elvis tour and Las Vegas season, see short films from every show plus hear interviews from over 30 associates. The film is a positive one and hopefully after watching both parts the viewer will then ask, "What Happened to Elvis" that he could die four short years afterwards." EIN's Piers Beagley checks it out...
(Spotlight; Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
‘Elvis would be proud’ of Riley trust settlement!: The Presley family trust-fight reporting still continues in the media...
Today tabloids reported that, "Priscilla believes that her late ex-husband Elvis Presley “would be proud” that she reached a legal settlement with her granddaughter, Riley Keough."
In a declaration filed Wednesday the 78-year-old said she’s pleased that she and Keough can finally put their legal tussle behind them.
The pair reportedly reached a million-dollar settlement this month over Lisa Marie Presley’s estate, who died on Jan 12 after going into cardiac arrest. “My daughter’s passing was both devastating and heartbreaking,” Priscilla wrote, according to the outlet. “We have learned that the fans realize that we are ‘Just a Family.’ Elvis would be proud and his and Lisa’s wishes are what are most important to all of us.
My granddaughter, through her counsel, along with my team worked diligently and tirelessly to resolve all misunderstandings as a family."
The legal drama led to an alleged rift between the family, with sources telling "Page Six" that the two women were not on speaking terms.
However, Priscilla brushed off rumors of a quarrel in her motion, saying she fired the lawyers responsible for disputing the will. (EIN Note: It was always reported that Priscilla started the court petition regarding the legality of the will. So why did she start it if she now says "she fired the lawyers"?)
Priscilla wrote, “My January 2023 petition was misconstrued in the press as a ‘fight’ over my beloved daughter’s Trust. That was not the
intent. The petition was filed by a law firm who has since been terminated.
I filed the petition to resolve all potential uncertainty surrounding the interpretation of the Promenade Trust.”
Keough reportedly agreed to give her grandmother over $1 million in order to become the sole trustee of Lisa Marie’s estate.
And interesting to note that part of the agreement is that "Riley will own Graceland and will allow Priscilla to retrieve any personal belongings she has at Graceland or in any storage units controlled by Graceland."
To EIN that doesn't sound that amicable (News, Source;PageSix/EIN)
'Girl Happy' Aussie fans please note: Continuing the run of Elvis films on Australian free-to-air TV, this
Sunday (18 June), 7Flix is screening 'Girl Happy' at 1.30pm. "A singer goes on an undercover assignment to chaperone the rich and sexy daughter of a Chicago mob boss."
Check out this sensational French poster for the movie.
Also note that 'Elvis and the USS Arizona' Documentary is also available via SBS ON Demand until June 30. "Elvis Presley's fundraising concert helps galvanise efforts to finish the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor."
well worth watching.
(News, Source;EIN)
‘Elvis - I Was The One: The Singles Collection’ Import: For collectors only ‘Elvis - I Was The One: The Singles Collection’ five 45rpms +CD.
In June 1983 RCA released a follow-up to the "Guitar Man" remix album. This time David Briggs & Tony Brown were responsible for producing the 'I WAS THE ONE' LP.
The album was produced at the House Of David Studios in Nashville, Tennessee in June 1982.
In some way, the album is comparable with the 'GUITAR MAN' album as completely new backing tracks were recorded just like for the former album.
Though this time the producers were in for an even bigger challenge as the tracks chosen for this album dated back to the mid and late 50's obviously recorded with different techniques.
You love it or you hate it is often said about this album, but a sure thing is that it is part of the Elvis catalogue from the 80's.
Now available is this wonderful 45RPM set containing 5 singles/ep's containing all the tracks from the original album on 45rpm and cd. Go to 'All The CD Release News 2023' for tracklist & details
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
'Elvis - On Stage' Undubbed Import: From the 'Now Entertainment' label 'Elvis - On Stage' Undubbed LP + cd.
At the end of June 1970, RCA released the album ON STAGE. Containing 10 live tracks which weren't immediately associated with Elvis.
Main attraction on the album was the mega-hit "The Wonder Of You" , further the album contained tracks like John Fogerty's "Proud Mary" and Tony Joe White's "Polk Salad Annie".
The album reached gold status 8 months later. Though very powerful and close-to-perfect tracks were selected for this album, still some overdubs had to be done to make the album suitable for release.
Mostly some backing vocals needed to be added or replaced, some new guitar work was done too as well as some applause was added.
Some very false backing vocals by the Sweet Inspirations needed to be covered up too.
This release contains the ON STAGE album in it's undubbed form. A great raw and powerful listen!!
This album is available on 180 grams Orange and White vinyl. A cd version is added too. EIN NOTE: This was previously released in 'Rebooked - At The International' bootleg as cd2 "On Stage" The Felton Jarvis rough mix. Go to 'All The CD Release News 2023' for tracklist & more details
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
Thursday 15 June 2023
Priscilla vs Riley - Lisa Marie Estate Settled: According to media reports Riley Keough will be sole trustee of her late mother Lisa Marie’s estate.
Riley Keough filed a petition Monday in LA County Superior Court to approve a settlement that would involve an undisclosed payout to her grandmother, Priscilla, who agreed not to be co-trustee of the Lisa Marie Presley estate.
The payment is apparently US$1Mil with Riley also paying Priscilla’s legal fees up to an amount of US$400,000.
The petition reveals new details of an agreement reached last month to end a potentially protracted family dispute over control of Lisa Marie's estate, which includes Graceland and many of Elvis' personal possessions.
ET also revealed that Priscilla will now serve as a "Special Advisor to the Trust" with Riley paying her an undisclosed monthly amount for the role. Riley will own Graceland which Elvis gave to Lisa Marie when he died and will allow Priscilla to retrieve any personal belongings she has at
Graceland or in any storage units controlled by Graceland.
Riley will also "to the extent of her authority" allow Priscilla to be buried on the property at the Meditation Garden upon her death "at the location closest to Elvis Presley without moving any existing gravesite."
Keough’s attorney noted, “In settling the claims pending in Priscilla’s petition, the parties are saving significant legal fees and they are likewise avoiding the spectacle of intra-family litigation" to be seen by everyone.
In another surprise PEOPLE magazine says that Lisa Marie's half-brother Navarone Garibaldi Garcia (no relation to Elvis) is in line to be granted 1/9 of her trust.
The decision became public one month after Riley Keough and Priscilla reached an agreement over the late singer's estate. Riley who will also become the trustee of the sub-trusts for her 14-year-old twin sisters Harper and Finley will safeguard and invest the money “in a manner consistent with the needs of the beneficiaries, and not influenced by the desire of a Trustee,” her lawyer wrote.
Priscilla, now 78, will be trustee of the 1/9 sub-trust for her son Navarone, 36, the documents state.
The rest will be split among Riley, Finley and Harper, and Priscilla
will receive a one-time lump sum payment from the trust for an
undisclosed amount. (News, Source;NP/ET/WP/EIN)
'Elvis Prodigy Of Sun' 10-inch vinyl OUT: After a six month delay the special "ten track 10-inch vinyl album" that was supposed to be included with the deluxe Christmas release of 'Elvis Prodigy Of Sun' is finally OUT and in Erik's sweaty hands!
Erik Lorentzen had apologised to fans for the delay which was due to post-covid supply issues.
While author Robert Van Beek told EIN at the time... "Unfortunately the album will be later than expected but the book set is ready. The vinyl album will be sent as soon as possible, free of charge, to everyone who placed an order." 'Elvis Prodigy Of Sun' presents a complete overview in word and image from Elvis’ birth until he signed for RCA. Over 900 pages packed with unique material and documentation interspersed with beautiful photos.
Hundreds of hours of research gives an overall picture of the boy who eventually became a 'king.'
Many new and /or higher /better quality photos have been purchased and distributed in these two volumes.
Go here to our interview with Robert Van Beek for more info.
Check 'The Elvis Files' websitefor details The 'Elvis Prodigy Of Sun' 10-inch vinyl are in the post. (News, Source;ElvisFiles)
(Upcoming academic book release) 'Southern History Remixed…. on Rock ‘n’ Roll and the Dilemma of Race': Professor Michael T. Bertrand, author of Race, Rock and Elvis, has a new 318 page book to be published in late January 2024. Published by the University Press of Florida, the book is described as:
Southern History Remixed spotlights the key role of popular music in the shaping of the United States South from the late nineteenth century to the era of rock ‘n’ roll in the 1940s, ’50s, and ’60s. While musical activities are often sidelined in historical narratives of the region, Michael Bertrand shows that they can reveal much about social history and culture change as he connects the rise of rock ‘n’ roll to the civil rights movement for racial equality.
In this book, Bertrand traces a long-term culture war in which white southerners struggled over the region’s cultural complexion with music serving as an engine that both sustained and challenged white supremacy.
He shows how rock ‘n’ roll emerged as a working-class genre with biracial sources. This book discusses the conflict over southern identity that played out in responses to jazz, barn dance radio, Pentecostal and gospel music, Black radio programming, and rhythm and blues, concluding with a close look at the popularity of Elvis Presley within a racially segregated society.
Southern History Remixed suggests that both Black and white southerners have used music as a tool to resist or negotiate a rigid regional hierarchy. Urging readers and scholars to take the study of popular music seriously, Bertrand argues that what occurs in the music world affects and reflects what happens in politics and history.
Another previously announced (but delayed due to COVID) academic book, 'Rethinking Elvis', by Dr. Mark Duffett, is scheduled for publication on November 30 this year. (News, Source: Amazon/EIN)
'Elvis: A Musical Revolution' Australian Cast Revealed:Rob Mallett will play Elvis in the upcoming Elvis stage musical in Australia. Rob is known for his roles in Disney’s Aladdin, Rocky Horror Picture Show, Singin’ In The Rain and various Australian tv programs such as Home and Away. “I have been influenced by people who have been influenced by Elvis and I didn’t even know it, he is so deeply ingrained in the fabric of our culture. It is an absolute honour to have the opportunity to play him,” says Rob.
Performing the role of Gladys is Noni McCallum (Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Muriel’s Wedding), with Ian Stenlake (Sea Patrol, Stingers, Mamma Mia) as Col Parker. Annie Chiswell (Friends! The Musical Parody, Mamma Mia) performs the role of Priscilla Presley and Kirby Burgess is set to play Hollywood actress Ann-Margaret.
Four triple-threat boys aged between 10-12 years old will share the role of Young Elvis, Oliver Bosward, Rhys James Hankey, Finn Walsham and Tommy Kent.
Sienna Embrey (Hairspray) performs the role of Elvis’ close friend and one time girlfriend Dixie, with Matt Heyward (The Phantom of the Opera, My Fair Lady) playing Vernon Presley, Elvis’ father. Ben Hall (Devil’s Playground, Love Child, Neighbours) will play Memphis
record producer Sam Phillips.
David Abbinanti and Sean Cercone wrote the book for the musical.
“We are honoured to be tackling one of the world’s greatest icons through a Broadway musical. Elvis’ life is such fervent ground for this medium from his epic concerts to his unprecedented meteoric rise to fame. There was no roadmap, no guide, and no limit on what could be created. His journey, from dirt-poor shotgun shack in Tupelo to a singular name, Elvis has fascinated generations and we’re excited to have him tell it in his own way."
The Australian premiere will open at Sydney’s State Theatre, from 5 August, and then move to Melbourne’s Athenaeum Theatre from 6 October.
Visit the official site: elvisamusicalrevolution.com.au (News, Source: Paul Cashmere, Noise11.com)
Largest gathering of Elvis impersonators record attempt to be made in Augusta: Elvis is in the building, err, lots of Elvises!
The Augusta Civic Center will be attempting to break the record for largest gathering of Elvis Impersonators later this summer. The Guinness World Record breaking attempt will be made during Elvis Week on Aug 15, 5pm to 8 pm. (EIN wonders why anyone would do the attempt when hundreds of Elvis Impersonators will actually be in Memphis for Elvis Week!)
The location honors Elvis' only Maine performance on May 24, 1977 at the Civic Center, which is holding its 50th anniversary celebration. (EIN note, so why August 15?)
Organizers are hoping to reach 1,200 participants, with Maine's Elvis tribute artist Jessi Mallory as the emcee for the date.
The current record for Elvis impersonators was made at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort in 2014, and consisted of 895 impersonators. (News, Source: wmtv.com)
'Running To The End' New Import: From SR Records 'Running To The End' focusses on Elvis’ March 1976 tour, featuring the March 20 1976 evening show previously unreleased on vinyl.
The March 20 Midnight Show was previously released on cd but this is the first time on vinyl format with an incredibly superior sound. The vinyl will be accompanied by a DVD with a complete show using different footage coming from the March tour. A Must have!
Elvis’ first 1976 tour although not in the best shape presents him at the top of his possibilities, delivering great shows.
The show consists of a solid collection of great-quality songs all well-performed. The range of Elvis’ performance is very wide from the rocking with the two classic Polk Salad Annie and Burning Love, the bluesy Steamroller Blues to the dramatic last single Hurt, without forgetting the anthem America and the gospel How Great Song and the You Gave Me a Mountain ending with the story of his life Fairytale.
This new SR special Product will be housed in a deluxe 300 grams single sleeve that includes vinyl and Bonus DVD. EIN Note: Previously released as 'Running For President'
Go to 'All The CD Release News 2023' for tracklist & more details
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
Monday 12 June 2023
New Exhibit at Elvis Presley Birthplace: As part of last weekend's Tupelo Elvis Festival - the 25th Annniversary - a new exhibit was unveiled at the Elvis Presley Birthplace.
The new display, unveiled last Wednesday, is proving popular with the visitors.
Called the 'Elvis Presley Youth Center' Exhibit it lines a hallway inside the museum.
When Elvis performed in Tupelo September 1957 it was to raise money for a Youth Recreation Center to which he donated $14,000.
The exhibit shows a recap of Presley's career through 1955-1958. Go here to see the news clip on WTVA which includes EIN's friend Roy Turner.
(News, Source;WTVA/NP/EIN)
Linda Thompson comments on Luhrmann ELVIS biopic: Despite playing a huge role in the star’s life, Linda Thompson didn’t feature at all – bar a few seconds of archive footage – in the Baz Luhrmann biopic last year.
Nor did Ginger Alden, with the film skipping over the last three years of Elvis' life.
Linda, who at the time of the film’s release said she hadn’t seen it, claimed she’d saved Elvis’ life on a number of occasions.
Linda posted on social media:: “No, I haven’t seen it yet. The trailer looks very entertaining and Austin Butler appears to do a fantastic depiction.
BUT since so many people are left out who were very important and instrumental in Elvis’ life – I wouldn’t call it a biopic.
I spent four years and a half years of my life living with and deeply caring for Elvis on many levels. I shared a hospital room with him every time he was in hospital. I had my own bed next to his during those times. I traveled on every tour with him. I was the only woman to ever do so in this life. I was at every Las Vegas engagement during those years.
I literally saved his life on several occasions.”
See EIN'S review of Linda Thompson's 2016 Biography A Little Thing Called Life here (News, Source:Express/Instagram/EIN)
'Elvis German EPs Record Guide' (Heinz Otto Zimmerman): The ENGLISH text "limited edition" of this book with a bonus 2 x EPs, has been released.
The book was originally published last year with German text.
The book is a strong discography but is pricey at 135 Euros (not including postage).
The book is described as: 596 pages full of information about all German EPs, Army singles, EPs & LPs as well as all “Gospel, Devil and year covers”.
Hardcover and a weight of 2,380 kg. A-4 format and all color photos.
Limited edition written in English and supplemented with 2 EPs.
My Trip With Elvis and Other Stories, With Ten Poems: A Magical Realism Book of Short Stories and Poems (TC Baker): This new short story and poetry book is described as:
... A Scintillating Collection of the Most Amusing Stories and Most Poignant Poems...
Being laid off from his job, a grief-stricken Thomas Charles Baker, or simply TC Baker, finds an escape in smoking a joint with his friend, Richard. But the situation takes an unexpected turn when, during his trip, he meets the great Elvis Presley. Although TC swishes away the trip he took with the star as a mere hallucination, things are not the same for the singer.
Johnny is an avid hunter and fisherman. Inspired by the Indian tribal hunters, he seeks to become one just like them, and even hunt with their preferred weapons – like a bow and an arrow. After several failed attempts at successfully hunting a prey, he loses his confidence in the sport. But Johnny isn’t the one to quit – and he is determined to get what he wants.
This book also features ten enticing poems, each following a thought-provoking theme; like the love of a parent, a man’s best friend, the time you spend with your people.
(News, Source NP/EIN)
Elvis’ cousin lifts Democrats hopes in Mississippi governor’s race: Conservative Mississippi is tough territory for Democrats, but the party sees an unusual opportunity this year to unseat first-term Republican Gov. Tate Reeves. They’re pinning hopes in November on a candidate with a legendary last name who has used his own compelling story to highlight the economic plight of working families in a state that has long been one of the poorest in America.
Democrat Brandon Presley is a second cousin of Elvis Presley, born a few days before the rock ’n’ roll legend died. While campaigning, Brandon Presley talks frequently about government corruption, focusing on a multimillion-dollar welfare scandal that developed when Reeves was lieutenant governor.
Presley, an elected member of the Mississippi Public Service Commission, is unopposed for the Democratic nomination for governor. He is pushing for Medicaid expansion to help financially strapped hospitals while telling voters about his own difficult childhood.
“I understand what working families in this state go through,” Presley told a recent meeting. (News, Source: Emily Wagster Pettus and Sarah Burnett, AP News)
Saturday 10 June 2023
'Aloha from Hawaii' 50th Anniv Release for Elvis Week 2023: The official announcement is out "Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of 'Aloha From Hawaii via Satellite'" - To be released August 11, 2023. 'Aloha from Hawaii via Satellite' is the apogee of an astounding career trajectory that began with Elvis' return to live performance in 1968 with an electrifying "comeback" television special that restored him to pop dominance after a seven year hiatus from the concert stage.
By 1973 Elvis was a living legend whose status as the world's first atomic-powered singer in the 1950s had evolved into movie stardom before his return to live performance generated a new iconography of Elvis. His watershed global telecast was the first full-length concert by any musician to be beamed around the world over communications satellites newly orbiting the earth in ever increasing numbers.
A half century later, the live album and concert film from that performance are perhaps the most revelatory documents of the live shows that Elvis poured so much of his heart and soul into during the 1970s.
The 50th anniversary edition of 'Elvis Aloha from Hawaii via Satellite', newly remixed and remastered, will be out as a 3CD + Blu-ray combined package - as well as 2LP VINYL and on digital on August 11, 2023.
For the first time in one authorized package, the entirety of the original January 14, 1973 performance, the previous night's dress rehearsal with a live audience (recorded in case of technical mishaps during the satellite transmission), several bonus tracks inserted into the US broadcast of the event and a Blu-ray transfer of the concert film. The deluxe set includes a 28-page booklet featuring in-depth liner notes penned by lifelong Elvis fan /respected music critic Randy Lewis, rare photos and memorabilia from the event, Ernst Jørgensen and Matt Ross-Spang have fully remixed the album from the original 16-track live recordings, first captured on tape by esteemed mobile engineer Wally Heider and newly digitized for this release with audiophile 24-bit, 192 KHz transfers, to bring fans a fresh listen to what, for many, is the most treasured performance of Elvis' latter-day years on the road.
Jørgensen noted, "To me that is the biggest thing: Aloha never sounded this good and Elvis never sounded this good."
Elvis Sunday Arvo on Australian TV: A nice Sunday afternoon of Elvis for anyone in Australia with two movies showing on Free-To-Air.
- with two of Elvis' best films from the early sixties 7Flix - 'Viva Las Vegas' 2:10pm – 4:07pm (111 mins)
Race car driver Lucky Jackson goes to Las Vegas to earn money to pay for a new engine for his motor car. Working as a waiter, he still finds the time to court young Rusty Martin. (1964)
followed by 9GEM - Kid Galahad 4:25pm – 6:25pm (121 mins)
Walter Gulick is back in his hometown where he belongs. He takes up a job as a boxer and excels at it. But his promoter friend is in trouble with mobsters. Will Walter help his friend? (News, Source;NP/EIN)
'Elvis: A Musical Revolution' Australia EXTRA DATES. The legend of Elvis must be rockin' HOT in Australia as another THIRTY
TWO performances have been added to 'Elvis: A Musical Revolution' tour Australia 2023.
Presented in partnership with ABG the new musical authorised by Elvis Presley Enterprises is coming to Australia. The Icon. The King. The story of a man who gave the world a musical revolution.
Another sixteen concerts have been added in both Sydney and Melbourne Sydney concerts are August 1 > September 10
Melbourne concerts are Sept 30 > November 26
Penned by acclaimed international writers, Elvis: A Musical Revolution is a new bio-musical exploring the extraordinary life of the award-winning cultural icon and rock ‘n roll superstar, Elvis Presley.
The Aussie premiere will be at Sydney’s State Theatre .
Led by award-winning producer David Venn, this brand-new production will explore pivotal moments in Elvis’ life from his childhood in Tupelo, Mississippi through to his triumphant ‘68 Comeback Special. Featuring over 40 iconic Elvis Presley hit songs, audiences of all ages will have the chance to connect with the music of a generation that continues to have an undeniable cultural impact.
Tickets on sale now - in total NINETY SEVEN performances have now been booked. Go HERE for tickets and more information. (News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
Friday 9 June 2023 - The 51st Anniversary of Elvis conquering Madison Square Garden -
"Elvis: From King to Legend 1972-1973" New Doco: In two parts, this is a new five hour documentary from Elvis super-fan and EIN contributor Dennis Laverty. It is a unique in-depth look at this incredible 12 month period in Elvis' career that is often skipped through in the usual Elvis documentaries.
As Laverty notes, “Regular documentaries seem to bypass 1972-1973 except for Elvis’ divorce and his last major hit of ‘Burning Love’. Madison Square Garden is never mentioned yet it was the catalyst in getting "Aloha From Hawaii" made. In this documentary you will go on every Elvis tour and Las Vegas season, see short films from every show plus hear interviews from over 30 associates.
The film is a positive one and hopefully after watching both parts the viewer will the ask, "What Happened to Elvis" that he could die four short years afterwards."
The interviews include Sammy Davis Jr, James Burton, Myrna Smith, Tom Jones, Mac Davis, The Stamps Richard Sterban, JD Sumner, Jim Murray, Ernst Jorgensen, Roger Semon, Glen D Hardin, Joe Guercio, Jerry Schilling and Priscilla Presley. The film is dedicated to Lisa Marie Presley. GO HERE TO VIMEO TO WATCH PART 1. It runs 2 ½ hours
EIN Note: This is a labour of love by a serious Elvis fan featuring fascinating footage and interviews that we would have all liked to have seen officially in celebration of Elvis' 1972 50th Anniversary. It is free and is a true celebration. Please find time this weekend to enjoy this lovely documentary.
EIN's detailed review will be posted very soon (News, Source; Dennis Laverty/EIN)
'Aloha From Hawaii' 50th Anniv SONY release: While there is no official announcement as yet it looks like SONY will be releasing the 'Elvis: Aloha From Hawaii' 50th Anniversary set for Elvis Week 2023. GoBuz streaming service have announced the release for August 11, 2023 while images of the Deluxe Box-Set with a BLURAY of both Aloha shows & post-concert-recordings has also been posted.
Having sadly missed the 'Elvis On Tour' 50th anniversary for Elvis Week 2022 it is of little surprise that SONY has followed up with this set.
This will be the first time the performances have been released on BluRay.
However since they were recorded for USA TV in basic 525 line format it is unlikely that the BluRay will show any great improvement in image quality over the DVD release.
'James Burton & Friends':James Burton is back and it was great to witness. It truly was a star-studded concert and James Burton seemed in as good health as at his last Elvis Week concerts of 2021.
His show at the London Palladium was reviewed in 'Blues Matters' online.
In part it noted... Queen guitarist Brian May whipped up the highly expectant audience into a frenzy by introducing legendary guitarist James Burton. With Ronnie Wood, Jeff ‘Skunk’ Baxter plus the Leo Green Orchestra they kicked off with 'Hello Mary Lou'.
Brian May bowed in an ‘I’m not worthy’ style towards Burton during his inimitable ‘chicken pickin’ guitar solo run. It was one of many such rare moments as stars of the guitar lined up to pay homage to, and witness at close quarters, the
legendary Burton’s guitar technique that influenced their younger selves to pick up and learn the guitar.
This evening’s compere, Cerys Matthews, reeled off a long list of mind-boggling statistics which included Burton playing on over 5,500 songs. As further proof Jeff ‘Skunk’ Baxter, this show’s ever-present wingman, sat next to Burton as they unleashed an explosive version of Jerry Lee Lewis’ 'Great Balls Of Fire' one of rock ‘n’ roll’s early universal songs on which Burton played on. (EIN note: It was actually Roland Janes who played guitar on the SUN original)
As part of the ‘Wrecking Crew’ LA band Burton played on so many seminal recordings including The Monkees records and Micky Dolenz made an appearance singing 'I’m A Believer' and a dreamy 'Daydream Believer'.
But the best was yet to come as a blue-suited, pork pie hat and blue reflective aviator sunglasses wearing Van Morrison was escorted onstage with Ronnie Wood joining in on 'Blue Suede Shoes' and 'It Takes A Worried Man' another magic moment to end tonight’s first mesmerising set.
The second set started with a beautiful 'Love Me Tender' accompanied by Burton, May and Baxter as 'Can’t Help Falling In Love' and Nancy Sinatra’s These Boots Are Made For Walkin’ also gave a sense of the classic masterpieces that James Burton enhanced with his guitar playing. (EIN note: Burton of course only played on these Elvis numbers in concert). On an evening when many, many showstopping moments occurred, John Oats added to the history of this ‘theatre of the stars’ with superb heartfelt renditions on Elvis’ 'Don’t Be Cruel' and 'Little Sister'.
It’s incredible to think how Brian May organised all of these stars to gather together, rehearse and nail all of these various arrangements into the fabric of this theatre’s unrivalled memories.
Interestingly Jason Scheff (son of TCB Bands Jerry Scheff) was also there to play bass.
The finale was 'Johnny B Goode' with all the star performers on stage nodding to James Burton who played out tonight’s once-in-a-lifetime sensational show as the curtain came down on an unforgettable evening.
It was a performance that will go down in musical folklore and join the rarified legendary nights at The London Palladium. -
Go here for'Blues Matters' lengthy review
Check out the great Mary Lou YouTube Clip here (News, Source;BM/MattLee/EIN)
How Elvis’ Spirit Lives On in ‘Agent Elvis’: Hollywood Reporter today reports on the fun of making 'Agent Elvis' when co-creator John Eddie discussed how they made the King of Rock’n’Roll a "retro cool" crime fighter in the animated series. The article includes.... 'Agent Elvis' was created by Priscilla Presley and John Eddie, the animated sitcom follows the music icon as he moonlights as a secret agent between performances during the period from 1968 to 1973.
John Eddie says, “It’s a known fact Elvis wanted to be a secret agent. The whole impetus for the series started from that photo of Elvis going to Richard Nixon and offering his services as an undercover agent. I had always pitched it as Elvis Presley as a secret agent fighting crime, as if directed by Quentin Tarantino.”
Eddie explained that he became friends with
Priscilla and Lisa Marie in 2013, when he was a musician on Lisa Marie’s tour.
He pitched the series because he’s a “big Elvis fan” and explains that he chose animation because, until he saw Luhrmann’s 2022 movie with Austin Butler in the lead role, “I always thought, no matter who played Elvis, they never got past the fact that they didn’t really look like Elvis. And I think Austin Butler did an amazing job. But I thought if we did it animated, then we’d be able to capture how Elvis looked and the vibe of Elvis without actually having an actor have to overcome that.”
Matthew McConaughey really brought something different just by not trying to imitate Elvis’ voice. He more just embodied the cool vibe.”
Animator Robert Valley was brought on early and was heavily involved in character design and the
visual style of the series. He said Elvis was the hardest he’s ever designed. He said Elvis is such a beautiful man that if you get one little thing wrong, it throws the whole face off. We even ended up having to take his design and then doing the 3D model to really capture Elvis as our character. A lot of time and effort went into capturing the Elvis character.” -
Go here for the full HR article
See EIN's Spotlight "'ELVIS' biopic vs 'Agent Elvis' Revisionist History and Negative Stereotypes?'"
(News, Source:HR/ElvisInfoNet)
'Blue Hawaii' Classic Album release on UK PD?: Amazon Uk is advertising a direct copy of the 2009 FTD 'Blue Hawaii' Classic Album to be released July 14 but by the Public Domain Greyscale label.
This seems very odd to EIN as most session outtakes were released within the 50 year rule so would not be Public Domain. The Greyscale label Product description is...
.... A slice of frothy escapist fun from 1961, Blue Hawaii rode a wave of fan excitement all the way to No 2 in the US box office. But while the movie may not have tested Elvis Presley's acting skills, it featured one of his most popular soundtracks. A US and UK No.1 that became the second-highest-selling soundtrack album of the 60s (second only to West Side Story), the Blue Hawaii album included the fan-favourite title track and Rock-A-Hula Baby, plus Elvis' definitive version of Can't Help Falling In Love. Offering a glimpse at the inner workings of The King's court, this two-disc edition comes with reams of rarities and studio outtakes, including movie edits and work-in-progress recordings, including an impossible-to-refuse 12 alternate versions of Can't Help Falling In Love.
Priced at £13.38 for the double album.
Out Friday, 14 July
You can pre-order now but I suspect SONY might have something to say about this.
Check outthe FTD 'Blue Hawaii' Classic Album here (News, Source;AmazonUK/ElvisInfoNet)
Saturday 3 June 2023
"Elvis From King to Legend 1972-1973": Coming soon a brilliant new documentary by EIN contributor and Elvis super-fan Dennis Laverty.
The film focuses on the 12 months Jan 1972 > Aloha in 1973 and the previews EIN has seen are stunning.
Dennis Laverty explained to EIN that "Researching and editing this film took a lot of time and I hope that all fans will enjoy this detailed story of these crucial 12 months, especially the new fans who are getting into him after the Elvis Movie.
I also hope that longtime fans will enjoy seeing clips being used as a story to follow Elvis on Tour for one year from January 1972 - January 1973."
He explained, "Of course there are a some great documentaries on Elvis such as 'This is Elvis' and 'The Searcher', even the new Luhrmann ELVIS biopic but each of them seem to skip over 1972-1973 except for Elvis' divorce and his massive hit 'Burning Love'.
Madison Square Garden is so often overlooked as well as all the hard work Elvis put in as the catalyst in getting to "Aloha From Hawaii".
The film is a positive one and hopefully after watching both parts the viewer will the ask, What Happened to Elvis that he could die 4 short years afterwards."
More info coming soon.
To know more, check out Dennis Laverty's two-part documentary on Elvis' stunning year of 1969. Go here. (News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
'Elvis Prodigy Of Sun' 10-inch vinyl at printers: 'Ma Boy, ma boy' it's been a long time coming but the special "ten track 10-inch vinyl album" that was supposed to be included with the deluxe Christmas release of 'Elvis Prodigy Of Sun' is finally at the printers.
Erik Lorentzen had apologised to fans for the delay which was due to post-covid supply issues.
While author Robert Van Beek told EIN at the time... "Unfortunately the album will be later than expected but the book set is ready. The vinyl album will be sent as soon as possible, free of charge, to everyone who placed an order." 'Elvis Prodigy Of Sun' presents a complete overview in word and image from Elvis’ birth until he signed for RCA. Over 900 pages packed with unique material and documentation interspersed with beautiful photos.
Hundreds of hours of research gives an overall picture of the boy who eventually became a 'king.'
Many new and /or higher /better quality photos have been purchased and distributed through these two issues.
Go here to our interview with Robert Van Beek for more info.
Check 'The Elvis Files' websitefor details The 'Elvis Prodigy Of Sun' 10-inch vinyl will be in the post soon. (News, Source;ElvisFiles)
Composer Cynthia Weil Dead at 82: Cynthia Weil who co-composed 'You’ve Lost that Lovin’ Feelin’', 'I Just Can't Help Believing', 'On Broadway', 'We Gotta Get Out of This Place' and many others (with writing partner / husband Barry Mann) has died June 1 at home in Beverly Hills. She was 82.
Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2010. Their first hit was Tony Orlando's 'Bless You' back in 1961. The two composers worked together in the 60s in New York's Brill Building along with Burt Bacharach, Neil Sedaka, Neil Diamond, Carole King etc.
Their major hits were two soaring No.1 singles for the Righteous Brothers 1964's 'You’ve Lost that Lovin’ Feelin’' and 1966's '(You’re My) Soul and Inspiration'.
Other big hits were 'We Gotta Get Out of this Place' (The Animals), 'Just a Little Lovin’' (Dusty Springfield) and 'Here You Come Again' the 1977 Dolly Parton No. 1.
Cynthia Weil was born in 1940 in New York City growing up on the Upper West Side of Manhattan and this influenced another great hit The Drifters 'On Broadway'.
Carole King posted “We lost the beautiful, brilliant lyricist Cynthia Weil Mann,” 'I Just Can't Help Believin'' (written by Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil) was in fact first released by Barry Mann in 1968 before B. J. Thomas made it a hit in 1970. (News, Source;various/EIN)
Elvis News from earlier in the week ...
(Book Review) 'Elvis Aaron Presley - The Man, The Truth' (by Baby Bird):EIN's Nigel Patterson prefers a book he can hold in his hands, but for a change decided to spend an icy
cold, pre-Winter's afternoon in the Australian capital, Canberra, indoors, delving inside the latest Kindle only Elvis release, Elvis Aaron Presley: The Man, The Truth by Baby Bird.
The book promises to counteract previously published "extraordinary unbelievable claims" and also "to try and dispel some of the myths and lies and show who Elvis really was on the inside"....
What he found was very unusual, interesting, but imperfect. Read Nigel Patterson's review
(Book Review, Source:EIN)
'Cooly Rocks On' Festival 2023: The Australian Cooly Rocks On festival which runs JUNE 7-11 features plenty of Elvis and it's right on the beach!
It features the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest 2023 where Australia’s top Elvis Tribute Artists take to the stage to compete.
The celebration also includes Jimmy Holmes and Mark Andrew: The King Returns to Stage '68 - '72
- Wednesday 7 June
And Shawn Klush in concert
- Friday 9 June
- From headlining the annual Las Vegas Elvis Fest to his numerous titles including ‘World’s Greatest Elvis’, this performance will be Shawn’s first show back in Australia in five years and is not to be missed!
The festival also has its own "Elvis Precinct"!
Are you looking to shake, rattle and roll your way to the Elvis Precinct?
The Elvis Precinct is located on the Coolangatta beachfront, Australia's Gold Coast. Enjoy picturesque coastal views at the beachfront bar before heading in to catch one of the various feature shows paying tribute to the legends of yesteryear.
Go here to Cooly Rocks On for all tickets and details (News, Source;EIN)
1956 Cadillac used in ELVIS biopic: Baz Luhrmann brought the life of ELVIS to the big screen in his recent biopic, featuring the King's lifestyle, and also his love of cars.
Greg Dower from Brisbane, Australia owns a 1956 Cadillac which Luhrmann used in the film.
"They repainted, re-chromed, put in new glass plus a new interior," Dower said, while speaking about his purple pride and joy.
As captivating in death as he was on the stage, the Elvis era revolution is far from over.
Elvis' fan-base got a huge boost with the multi-award winning ELVIS biopic and his legacy is again being discovered by a new generation of fans.
All things retro including beautiful cars will be celebrated at this year's Cooly Rocks On festival in Coolangatta, which is kicking off on June 7.
See more details above (News, Source: 9Now ACA)
Tupelo Elvis Festival 2023: The 2023 Tupelo Elvis Festival runs June 7 to June 11 and as it is the 25th anniversary of the Tupelo Elvis Festival it is packed full of ELVIS excitement.
Some events are already sold out, including Opening Night gala but plenty of tickets remain for other concerts and events.
Lucia Randle festival executive director notes that, "The Saturday night symphony performance is going to be outstanding."
The Silver Jubilee Concert with festival host Tom Brown features Pat Dunn and ETAs Ben Thompson, Brandon Bennett, Dean Z and Jay Dupuis along with the T.L.C. Band.
The festival kicks off on June 7 with a Silver Jubilee Gala. Public activities begin June 8, with concerts, the Ultimate Tribute Artist competition, boxing, the Run with the King 5K and other activities before wrapping up June 11 with a gospel concert.
Festival attendees, like most Elvis fans, will visit Tupelo Hardware where he bought his first guitar, and they'll walk around taking their photos in front of murals and other landmarks. They'll also visit the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum.
Birthplace executive director Roy Turner added, "We expect we'll see quite a few more visitors from the festival this year as this is the first festival since the 'Elvis' movie came out, and we're already seeing more people coming here who say they had seen the movie and wanted to come see where Elvis was born."
A record 25 performers will compete in this year's Ultimate Tribute Artist competition.
Go here to Tupelo Elvis Festival Facebook for all the contacts and information. (News, Source;Tupelo/EIN)
Tina Turner dead at 83: The sensational Tina Turner sadly passed away after a long illness on Wednesday, May 24th, 2023.
While there is only a slight connection between Elvis and Tina Turner they of course both recorded ground-breaking versions of Creedence Clearwater Revival's Proud Mary and Tina's husband Ike Turner was one of the early performers to record at SUN Studios.
His SUN recording 'Rocket 88' (Jackie Brenston and his Delta Cats) is often considered a major milestone in the development of Rock'n'Roll.
Priscilla this week noted, “Tina Turner was one of Elvis’ favourite performers.
When she took the stage, it was pure magic. I remember how she held an audience with an energy that was undeniably pure Tina! She has left a remarkable legacy and will be sorely missed by all.”
This YouTube clip of ELVIS vs Tina Turner is well-worth watching.
Turner was born Anna Mae Bullock in Nutbush, Tennessee, to Zelma Currie and her husband, Floyd Bullock, a Baptist deacon. Abandoned by their father "Tina" and her elder sister, Alline, moved to St Louis, Missouri, where they encountered Ike Turner and his band the Rhythm Kings where he recruited her as one of his backing singers.
Featuring nine musicians and a trio of skimpily dressed backing singers, the Ikettes, the Revue took the R&B circuit by storm. Tina rapidly developed into a mesmerising performer with a stunningly powerful voice.
The Phil Spector produced 1966 'River Deep, Mountain High' is regarded as a high point of both Spector’s and Turner’s careers. Later ’80s hit would be 'What’s Love Got to Do with it',
'Private Dancer' and 'We Don’t Need Another Hero (Thunderdome)'. Tina also stared in the 1985 film 'Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome'.
Like Elvis, Tina Turner’s career spanned over decades and boasted multiple Top 40 Billboard hits, 25 Grammy Award nominations, a Kennedy Center Honor, and entry into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2021. RIP Tina Turner 26 Nov 1939 - 24 May 2023 (News, Source;AP/ElvisInfoNet)
'Elvis News Report June 2023': Elvis super-fan Emiel Maier presents all the recent news including.. 'James Burton and Friends' concert, The auction of Elvis's last Harley
Davidson, The barbershop museum at Fort Chaffee, The passing of Bill
Baize, Elvis Trivia Quiz .. and much much more..
3 New JUNE FTD releases: Out late June month, three new FTD sets - 'The How Great Thou Art Sessions' (5cd set), 'Houston, Fort Worth, Baton Rouge 1974' (3cd set), 'Fun In Acapulco' special DOUBLE-VINYL.
- 'The How Great Thou Art Sessions' (5CD set)
This 5 CD collection of "complete" session Masters and outtakes is presented in the usual 8”x 8” slipcase with a 28-page booklet featuring notes, photos, session data and memorabilia.
Recorded in May and June 1966, the 3x Platinum winning album also gave Elvis his first 'Grammy' award for "Best Sacred Performance".
Apart from the excellent gospel performances that include 'Run On', 'Stand By Me', 'So High' and 'Where No One Stands Alone' the sessions also spawned the secular hits 'If Every Day Was Like Christmas', 'Love Letters' and 'Indescribably Blue'. EIN NOTE: While the vast majority of this all-important session has been released by FTD before there are a delightful selection of extra takes and false-starts to keep collectors interested.
Previously unreleased takes include from Down In The Alley, Somebody Bigger Than You And I, Without Him and the delightful Where Could I Go But To The Lord Take 1, albeit only 30 seconds.
Plus the delight of hearing the 'complete' session in chronological order. Go here to FTD / SONY News 2023 for full tracklists
- 'Elvis: Houston, Fort Worth, Baton Rouge 1974' (3xCD SET)
As part of its ongoing live on tour series, FTD is pleased to announce the release of 'Elvis: Houston, Fort Worth, Baton Rouge 1974'.
Released as a 3-CD 5” digi-pak, this set includes three shows from 1974. The Astrodome, Houston, Texas (evening show) March 3, Tarrant Convention Center, Fort Worth (evening show) June 15
and Louisiana State University Assembly Center, Baton Rouge, June 17 EIN NOTE: The Texas Astrodome concert has previously been bootlegged multiple times ie 'Event Number 8' / 8th Wonder Of The World.
It is a fascinating concert for only having Elvis' TCB band and without any orchestra. Hopefully the sound is vastly improved.
FTD have previously released 'Sold Out! CD1 - Tulsa, Oklahoma, March 1st' and alsoFort Worth, Texas 1974 June 16 Afternoon and Evening Show Go here to FTD / SONY News 2023 for full tracklists
- 'Fun In Acapulco' special 180 gram Double-vinyl set.
Inspired by RCA Victor's European release, this 180 GRAM double vinyl soundtrack companion features original soundtrack masters and many excellent alternative outtakes.
Includes Bossa Nova Baby, You Can’t Say No In Acapulco, Mexico, Marguerita and Fun In Acapulco
Bonus tracks include 'Witchcraft (takes 3/M)', 'Love Me Tonight (takes 6-8/M)' and 'Slowly But Surely (takes 5/M)'.
Bill Baize Dead Aged 83: Sad news that the Legendary tenor of The Stamps / Blackwood Brothers Quartet, Bill Baize has passed away aged 83.
The Blackwood Brothers Quartet FB page lovingly states, "Legendary tenor, Bill Baize, graduated to heaven on May 15th."
Bill Baize joined The Stamps and toured with Elvis from 1971 through to June 1976 and was there for Elvis' Jungle Room sessions.
It is Bill Baize who sings the fabulous falsetto high note at the end of 'Burning Love' and you can see him in action in the 1972 movie 'Elvis On Tour'.
In later Elvis performances Bill Baize would sing a solo spot requested by Elvis, 'When It's My Time'.
Baize commented that "Elvis was the hardest working entertainer that I ever saw but he loved to have fun with his friends and colleagues. After the shows we'd all go up to his suite and often sing Gospel for him
Elvis would call out names of his favourites and we would sing them.. sometimes for two or three hours. That could be pretty hard after the late night concert.
To me Elvis was the consummate entertainer. Elvis was unique, there has only ever been one Elvis." (News, Source;FB/ElvisInfoNet)
'From Elvis at Sun' Stereo CD Review: A new ‘From Elvis at Sun’ “Mono II Stereo” release from the Danish Memphis Mansion label.
The compilation includes the five classic SUN SINGLES plus the other nine alternate cuts that RCA would purchase from Sam Phillips.
Keen Elvis fans must surely have a serious fascination about how Elvis' early ground-breaking recordings were created.
Why do Elvis' classic rock’n’roll singles sound so good, especially given the low quality recording equipment of the time? And how were they laid down in the studio?
One way to discover the wonders of 50’s rock’n’roll inventiveness is to examine "stereo" versions of the old mono recordings and it is only since the creation of the cutting-edge audio process DES (Digitally Extracted Stereo) that we can do this.
Previous Mono <> Stereo versions have not quite made their mark. So is it possible that this new 2023 set can help fans appreciate the real magic and brilliance of Elvis at SUN? EIN's 2,600 word review by Piers Beagley looks in-depth at whether new upgrades in "DES" software can help create something special from these old SUN classics...
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
'Elvis’ Women' documentary series on Amazon Prime: Elvis Presley’s relationship with the women closest to him is to be revealed in an Amazon Prime Video documentary series.
Premiering this week, Elvis’ Women aims to “uncover a man who was much more complex than the public perception of the titular American icon,” according to the show’s synopsis. Elvis’ Women goes offstage to reveal more about the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll through the eyes of the women whose love for the man endures: his nurse, his fiancé, his live-in girlfriends, his many dalliances and fans.
Episode one sees his rise to fame in the 1950s recounted by the various women he dated at the time while revealing a mama’s boy who never recovered from his mother Gladys' sudden death, while the second installment follows the ups-and-downs of his relationship with Priscilla Beaulieu and Ann-Margret.
Episode three charts his post-Priscilla search for true love in the 1970s, towards the end of his life.
The show will be available on Prime Video in the UK and other European territories this week and is also streaming on RTL+ in Germany.
It is produced by UK indie Renowned Films, which also makes the likes of Discovery+’s Ice Cold Catch and BBC Three’s The Drop. Go here to Amazon.uk to check it out
'Elvis’ Women' comes off the back of Baz Luhrmann biopic 'ELVIS' which was nominated for eight Oscars including Best Actor and Best Picture. (News, Source;Alanna Nash/Amazon/EIN)
EIN Note: While Alanna Nash posted news of the series on Facebook, it does not appear to have any connection to her excellent book, Baby, Let’s Play House: Elvis Presley and the Women Who Loved Him. Read EIN’s detailed review of the book ………Amazon Prime also features many of Elvis’ films and various documentaries about his life and career.
(Spotlight) 'Elvis biopic and Agent Elvis – Revisionist History and Reinforcing Negative Stereotypes?':In a thought-provoking 3,000 word article, EIN’s Nigel Patterson examines the impact of Baz Luhrmann’s film 'ELVIS' and the adult-orientated animation, Agent Elvis.
Undoubtedly in any mass-media the dehumanisation of Elvis is a real issue but marketing the man has always been more concerned with the “mainstream” commodification of his name since mid-1950s. So are these new millennium productions good or bad for how society views Elvis and which one will have the greatest impact? .. Read the article... Now Updated with YOUR comments
(Spotlight, Source:ElvisInfoNet)
'Elvis Presley: The Airplanes & The King' (Carlos Varrenti): The 3rd edition of Carlos Varrenti's book about Elvis and his airplanes has been published. The 1st edition was in Spanish and the revised, expanded 2nd edition (400+ pages), in English. However, the book was not widely available. The 3rd edition (285 pages) features new information but also has been edited to reduce the total number of pages and make the book affordable for more fans. Unlike the earlier editions this volume is available to all fans from Amazon sites!
The book is described as:
.. As an aeronautical engineer and lifelong Elvis Presley fan, I have always been fascinated by the King's connection to aviation. Since my first visit to Graceland in 2001, I have been compiling every detail I could find about Elvis and his planes - every short paragraph in a book, every video, every photograph, and every bit of information. Now, I am thrilled to share this wealth of knowledge and unique Elvis stories in the third edition of "The Airplanes & the King."
.. This book provides a detailed account of Elvis's aviation history, featuring photos and stories from 1955 through 1977. It offers a fascinating look at Elvis's life on tour from an original and compelling perspective. The book includes archival material, personal stories, and stunning imagery that will captivate aviation enthusiasts and Elvis fans alike. Whether you are a die-hard fan or simply curious about the King's connection to the skies, "The Airplanes & the King" is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of aviation and popular culture.
EIN's Nigel Patterson read the 2nd edition earlier this year. Read Nigel's detailed review (News, Source: EDBD; Amazon/EIN)
Priscilla Settles Dispute over Lisa Marie estate: News just in from CNN.
Priscilla has reached a settlement agreement over her petition questioning the validity of her late daughter's will.
Priscilla's attorney Ronson J. Shamoun stated, “The parties would like to report that they’ve reached a settlement" at the court hearing in LA on Tuesday.
The agreement pertains to the Promenade Trust, which names Riley Keough as the beneficiary of her late mother’s estate. Details of the agreement were not discussed in court.
Attorneys for the parties said they plan to file a motion to seal the settlement agreement.
The judge asked for the settlement and the motion to seal to be filed by June 12 and set another hearing in the case for Aug. 4.
Shamoun told reporters “The families are happy. Everyone is happy, unified, together and excited for the future.”
Riley Keough attorney Justin Gold told CNN “she is very content.”
Lisa Marie died in January after being hospitalized following an apparent cardiac arrest at her California home.
Priscilla disputed a 2016 amendment to her daughter’s will which states that Lisa Marie Presley removed her mother and former business manager, Barry Siegel, as co-trustees, replacing them with her children Riley and Benjamin Keough.
The petition, filed in January alleged that Priscilla Presley did not receive the amendment while her daughter was alive, as required by her Trust, and that the document misspells Priscilla’s name.
The petition also alleged that the amendment was not witnessed or notarized and questioned the authenticity of Lisa Marie’s signature.
Lisa Marie Presley’s cause of death remains under review, according to the LA County Coroner. (News, Source;CNN/EIN) EIN Thanks our friend Larry C for the word-up
While Adolf Hitler is dead, his son, Ivan, is very much alive and seeking vengeance for the death of his mother and father.
He also has access to technology which makes him a threat to the survival and security of the world.
And did I mention, Ivan is also an Elvis tragic!
Regarding our recent article on "'ELVIS' biopic vs 'Agent Elvis' Revisionist History and Reinforcing Negative Stereotypes?'"
EIN was sent this great 'ELVIS' v reality scene comparisons' which truly demonstrates how hard Baz Luhrmann worked to closely re-create Elvis' genuine performances.
Some reenactments are astonishing and blow every previous Biopic version of "Elvis" out of the water. Check it out.
Thanks to Barry for word-up (News, Source;BS/EIN)
ELVIS WEEK 2023 - New Guests Announced: Graceland has added the following guests to the Elvis Week line-up, including three who will be making their first-ever Elvis Week appearance!
They will join us to share their Elvis memories, stories, and music! - Allan Blye -Writer on Elvis' ‘68 Comeback Special
@ ’68 Special Enhanced Screening, Conversations on Elvis - Janice Fadal- Daughter of theater owner and disc jockey, Eddie Fadal. While Elvis was going through boot camp at Fort Hood, Elvis made the Fadal’s home in Waco his “home away from home."
@ Conversations on Elvis - Gene McAvoy- Art director on Elvis’ ’68 Comeback Special
@ ’68 Special Enhanced Screening, Conversations on Elvis - John Schneider - Singer/actor whose acting career includes the iconic role of "Bo Duke" on The "Dukes of Hazzard." In 1981, he released a cover of the song “It’s Now or Never” as his first single and the title track of his debut album It's Now or Never.
@ Elvis Music Salute.
Already announced
special guests include Linda Thompson, Sam Thompson, Jerry Schilling, Glen Hardin, Spencer Sutherland, Mike Deasy, Tanya Lemani George, Terry Mike Jeffrey, The Blackwood Brothers Quartet, 10 Ultimate Elvis tribute artists, among others! Plus more exciting guest and event announcements yet to come!
Tickets On-sale Wednesday, April 5
Go here to EPE for more 'Schedule of Events' info (News, Source;EPE/ElvisInfoNet)
ELVIS related books in the pipeline: Other books due for publication later this year include:
o Elvis Presley: Amor deccuidado (Portuguese edition) (Peter Guralnick)
o And Then There Was Elvis - A Superfan Adventures in the Elvis World (Elaine Christian with Virginia Coons)
o From Memphis to Tokyo: A Reference Guide to the Absolute Mastery of Elvis' Japanese Vinyl (David Ward and Dick Dekker)
o Elvis at 21: New York to Memphis (reissue) (Alfred Wertheimer)
o The Airplanes & The King (abridged Amazon edition) (Carlos Varrenti)
o Elvis Encore Performance VII: The Chicago Blues (June 17, 1972) (Joseph Tunzi)
o Elvis and the Colonel: An Insider's Look At the Most Legendary Partnership in Show Business (Greg McDonald and Marshall Terrill)
o Graceland: A Novel (Nancy Crochiere)
o Elvis Presley En España - Una Mirada Critica 1970-1990 (Volume 2) (Rubén Olivares Rosell) History's Most Influential Musicians
o Elvis and Me (reissue) (Priscilla Presley and Sandra Harmon)
o The Faith of Elvis (softcover edition) (Billy Stanley).
(News, Source: EIN; Amazon; EPALIB)
Gordon Lightfoot has died age 84: Gordon Lightfoot, one of Canada’s greatest songwriters, has died at the age of 84. He died of natural causes in a Toronto hospital, Monday May 1, with his passing confirmed by his publicist.
His songs were covered by artists including Elvis Presley, Barbra Streisand and Johnny Cash.
Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau described him as one of the country's greatest singer-songwriters.
Lightfoot hailed from a tiny town in Ontario born in 1938. He first made his name in Toronto's coffeehouse scene and would then find international fame in with "If You Could Read My Mind" in 1971.
That song says Toronto music critic Robert Everett Green, contains what would become some of Lightfoot's favorite themes: loss, longing and nostalgia.
Lightfoot's voice was raspy and regretful, the perfect complement to his rugged hinterlands look. Lightfoot was the epitome of the articulate storyteller in song, with an accompanying gift for unforgettable melodies that remained rooted in acoustic folk, but crossed into the rock world with ease.
Bob Dylan once said that he didn’t think he had ever heard a Gordon Lightfoot song he didn’t like, and described him as a “mentor.”
From early songs such as “Ribbon of Darkness”, “Did She Mention My Name” to the signatures anthems such as “Early Morning Rain,”
“If You Could Read My Mind,” “Sundown,” “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald,” “The Circle Is Small,” his songs captured his fans.
Songs such as "Early Morning Rain" covered by Elvis Presley would describe the ever-changing world "You can't jump a jet plane, like you can a freight train" - Elvis would also cover Lightfoot's "For Lovin' Me"..
Lightfoot’s place in the pantheon of Canadian art cannot be overstated, and he commanded a place of undisputed prominence from his emergence there in the mid-1960s until his death. Lightfoot continued to record and tour exhaustively until he was recently taken ill. (News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
'Trains, Jet Planes and Morning Rain' EIN Spotlight: Elvis Presley’s cover of 'Early Morning Rain' has exerted an enduring appeal, with composer Gordon Lightfoot going as far as to call it his favourite cover of one of his songs.
The 1971 album 'Elvis Now' is still treasured by one Elvis fan. Gordon Lightfoot admitted that, in the 1970s, he hadn’t paid much attention to the King’s cover of his classic song Early Morning Rain. “It didn’t really register until after he was gone, but I loved the job he did on it. I have it right here on my desk. I keep it here. It’s 'Elvis Now'.”
Lightfoot's great regret is that he never met Elvis. He went to one concert hoping to meet up, “There were 18,000 people at the show but by the time I got back there to meet him, a voice said: ‘Elvis has left the building'. I had an appointment! But there were too many people around.” Go here where respected author Paul Simpson takes a fascinating look at this sometimes overlooked song... (Spotlight, Source;PaulSimpson/ElvisInfoNet)
'Elvis LIVE 1972' (double-LP) Review: On this brand new ‘ELVIS LIVE 1972’ double-vinyl release producer Ernst Jørgensen has cleverly included nearly all of the concert highlights from RCA's ‘On Tour’.
The album features a "best of" the four 'On Tour' concerts using one key section from each of the first three concerts (one per vinyl side) plus the missing unique tracks on Side D.
'On Tour' classics from Hampton Roads 'Polk Salad', 'Big Hunk O' Love', from Richmond 'It's Over', Greensboro 'Burning Love', 'Funny How Times Slips Away', 'For The Good Times' plus San Antonio 'Proud Mary', 'How Great Thou Art' are all included...
But if fans already own all these songs from the recent 'On Tour' box-set can this vinyl version really be worth buying?
This title was released on March 24 2023.
Book 'Elvis Remembered: Interviews With the People Who Knew Him Best'(Shelly Powers): This potentially interesting hardcover (240 pages) was announced for publication on October 7, a month or so ago. The cover image is now available. This is the Amazon book description:
.... When Shelly Powers was 7, she told her mother that she'd marry Elvis Presley when she grew up She did -- though he was an impersonator, a tribute artist she met in Las Vegas
But over her 12 years living in Vegas, she joined an Elvis fan club After a few Elvis conventions she met Presley's personal photographer, Ed Bonja, and with him made her first Elvis Interview
What started as one interview became many more, and with them many more friendships with people in Elvis' circle Each of the 11 of Elvis' intimates interviewed here has a good story to tell Each is accompanied by period photographs of Elvis and the friend, movie posters, concert memorabilia, and unusual memories that every fan or Elvis will want to read.
Interviewees include:
• Ed Bonja Tour manager and official photographer 1970-77
• Cynthia Pepper Co-star in the movie "Kissin' Cousins"
• Darleen Thompkins from "Blue Hawaii" and remained close till his death
• Patti Perry Met Elvis when she was 17 and only female member of "Memphis Mafia"
• Myrna Smith Elvis backing singer 1969-77
• Joe (Diamond Joe) Esposito Lifelong friend and best man
• Sonny West Lifelong friend of Elvis and bodyguard
• Jerry Schilling Lifelong friend
• Larry Geller Spiritual advisor and personal hair stylist
• Jimmy Velvet Friend for 20 years and ran an Elvis memorabilia museum in Memphis
Packed with remarkable photographs, this will be a memorable fans' resource and enjoyable reading for anyone.
EIN Notes - While there are a few typos and factual errors in the promotional text, as the book is a series of interviews, it will have merit if those interviews offer new or interesting information. (News, Source: Amazon)
Book Review: 8mm Elvis - The Story of Elvis on 8mm': Long before the days of Bluray, DVD and VHS people watched home movies on 8mm film. '8mm Elvis The Forgotten Format' is a glossy, colour, hardback book cataloguing the history of Elvis on 8mm film.
Author Vince Wright has been collecting all the Elvis 8mm he could find since the 80s.
He explained.. “I was cataloguing all these films hoping someone would write a book about it – I waited, they didn’t, so I did.”
So in 2023, and after many years of searching and researching, the author has released his comprehensive narrative and visual record of Elvis on 8mm.
This book is unique in its narrative and visual content and is an important inclusion in the complex jigsaw puzzle that forms a complete record of the multi-varied story of Elvis Presley. Go here to read Nigel Patterson's review
(Book Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
'Elvis On Tour' Box-Set In-Depth Review:The January 2023 'Elvis On Tour' SONY release 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.
RCA/Legacy's Elvis On Tour box set is produced by Ernst Jørgensen and mixed by Grammy Award-winning Memphis-based producer Matt Ross-Spang.
Elvis' April 1972 concerts were magnificent, so hopefully this expensive 50th anniversary release including newly remastered concert performances captures the magnificence and excitement of the movie and Elvis' stunning shows.
After fifty years surely SONY/RCA will get it right.....
Elvis Week 2023 tickets Now On Sale: This year’s Elvis Week, which runs August 9-17 will mark the 46th anniversary of Presley’s death.
Enjoy an unforgettable nine days filled with live music, panels, contests, tributes, screenings and more – all honoring the man, the star, the icon - the King of Rock 'n' Roll!
Elvis Week 2023 highlights include....
- August 16 Aloha from Hawaii 50th Anniversary Concert featuring Elvis on the big screen backed by a live band;
- ’68 Special Enhanced Screening with Elvis bigger than life in black leather
- Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest and performances
- Conversations on Elvis, with those who knew Elvis best.
- A Celebration of Lisa Marie Presley with Jerry Schilling
- The annual Candlelight Vigil Special guests and performers include Linda Thompson, Jay Osmond, Sam Thompson, Jerry Schilling, Glen Hardin, Spencer Sutherland, Mike Deasy, Tanya Lemani George, Terry Mike Jeffrey, The Blackwood Brothers Quartet, 10 Ultimate Elvis tribute artists, among others!
'Elvis: Let Me Be There 1974' FTD In-depth Review: A 3CD soundboard release from Elvis' January-Feb 1974 Las Vegas season and FTD's first new release for 2023.
Released as a 3-CD 5" digi-pak, this set features three 1974 concerts recorded via soundboard at The Hilton Hotel, Las Vegas on January 28, plus Jan 29 and Feb 1, 1974 Midnight shows.
So far FTD have only released one Dinner Show from this season .
The January 29, 1974 Midnight Show is totally new for collectorsm with the Jan 28 Dinner Show, and Feb 1, 1974 Midnight Show only been released as bootleg AUDIENCE recordings.
While the early 1974 performances are fine quality with new songs 'Help Me', 'Spanish Eyes', 'Let Me Be There', ‘Trying To Get To You’ and ‘My Baby Left Me’ in the set-list - the audio mastering here sadly leaves a lot to be desired. Elvis soundboard super-collector Geoffrey McDonnell along with EIN's Piers Beagley check out this 1974 triple- pack. (FTD Reviews, Source;GM/ElvisInformationNetwork)
Anthony Stuchbury 'From Elvis At Sun' Interview: There are two new 'Mono II Stereo' releases about to come out from the Memphis Mansion label. 'From Elvis At Sun' features all of Elvis' SUN masters in new stereo versions while the 10" vinyl 'Best Of Elvis' is a neat stereo upgrade of the original HMV october 1957 UK album.
The question of whether Elvis' mono fifties classic recordings should be re-released in "new stereo" is hotly debated among hard-core collectors and so EIN wanted to ask Memphis Mansion's producer / audio engineer Anthony Stuchbury some key questions.
Questions including... - Do we really need stereo versions of these mono classics?
- Since EMI are officially releasing The Beatles in "new stereo" perhaps it is time for RCA / SONY to do the same for Elvis..
'Elvis UK - Beyond RCA' Book Review: UK specialists John Townson and Gordon Minto's new book 'Elvis UK - Beyond RCA - The Ultimate Guide To Elvis Presley’s British Non RCA LPs 1974-1997' flipbook follows on from their previous publications in the Elvis UK series.
This book..
• Is extensively illustrated in full colour
• Features a host of background information including a chronological list of all the albums included
• Deals with each album individually, in a detailed and forensic way, while the text is amply illustrated with scans of every known cover and label variation, relevant photographs, and scans of contemporaneous newspaper and magazine articles
• Includes background information about each release including historically significant events of the period
• Contains hitherto unpublished information from company files
• Includes a wealth of background information relating to the record industry incorporated throughout the text.
'Elvis: A Musical Revolution' to tour Australia in 2023. David Venn Enterprises (Cruel Intentions: The ‘90s Musical, The Wedding Singer, Bring It On: The Musical) is thrilled to announce 'Elvis: A Musical Revolution' to tour Australia in 2023.
Presented in partnership with ABG the new musical authorised by Elvis Presley Enterprises is coming to Australia. The Icon. The King. The story of a man who gave the world a musical revolution.
Penned by acclaimed international writers, Elvis: A Musical Revolution is a new bio-musical exploring the extraordinary life of the award-winning cultural icon and rock ‘n roll superstar, Elvis Presley.
The Australian premiere will open at Sydney’s State Theatre from July 2023, before rocking into Melbourne’s Athenaeum Theatre from September 2023.
Led by award-winning producer David Venn, this brand-new production will explore pivotal moments in Elvis’ life from his childhood in Tupelo, Mississippi through to his triumphant ‘68 Comeback Special. Featuring over 40 iconic Elvis Presley hit songs, audiences of all ages will have the chance to connect with the music of a generation that continues to have an undeniable cultural impact.
Songs include Jailhouse Rock, Hound Dog, That’s All Right, All Shook Up, Suspicious Minds, Heartbreak Hotel, Burning Love, Blue Suede Shoes, Good Rockin’ Tonight, Can’t Help Falling In Love, Earth Angel, Don’t Be Cruel, Are You Lonesome, Blue Moon of Kentucky, See See Rider, A Little Less Conversation and more.
With an all-star Australian cast, dazzling choreography, and hit after hit, you simply can’t help falling in love!
Tickets on sale now - in total SIXTY FOUR performances have been booked. Go HERE for tickets and more information. (News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
'Elvis: From Louisiana and Memphis 1976' FTD In-depth Review: FTD continues their extensive look at Elvis' performances in 1976 with three July 1976 concerts. This is a FOUR CD 5” digi-pak, this set features three concerts, Shreveport Louisiana July 1, 1976, Baton Rouge, July 2, 1976 and Elvis' last home-town concert Mid-South Coliseum, Memphis July 5, 1976.
FTD have already released two soundboards from this June-July 1976 tour but both the Louisiana concerts have never been released from soundboard before.
By early 1976 Elvis’ set-list had become routine with few surprises along the way however this tour was one of the best for 1976 and for collectors the previously unreleased Shreveport July 1 1976 soundboard is a real bonus - and Elvis’ final show in Memphis should be in everyone’s collection. Elvis soundboard super-collector Geoffrey McDonnell along with EIN's Piers Beagley check out this new FTD 1976 triple-concert pack to see whether we can learn anything new... (FTD Reviews, Source;GM/ElvisInformationNetwork)
'The Airplanes & The King' In-depth review: The original spanish book 'Los Aviones Y El Rey' by Carlos Varrenti was republished as an expanded English version 'The Airplanes & The King' towards the end of 2022.
Not only that but it was expanded from its original 197 pages to an amazing 400 pages with a lot of unreleased material and stunning photos from the 'Elvis Files' vaults!
The English version was unfortunately delayed by supply issues due to the worldwide Covid pandemic - but has now been published as a High quality Hardback book.
As an Aeronautical engineer and Elvis fan, Varrenti is well qualified to write a book which details Elvis’ history with his aircraft and his link to aeronautics in general. With photos and stories from 1955 through to 1977 - and beyond - the book is also an interesting historical look at Elvis’ life "on tour" but this time with an delightfully original theme.
Lisa Marie / Austin Butler Interview: Here is a delightful and important reminder of what a kind soul Lisa Marie was and how important ELVIS was to her.
Looking in good form, Lisa Marie laughs and joked through the interview and her genuine friendship with Austin Butler is self-evident.
In the ABC interview Lisa Marie comments, "First watching the movie I was gripping my chair scared to death.. Baz Lurhmann is a wild card, I didn't know Austin yet, I didn't know what Baz was doing, I didn't know what I was in for."
"I feel so protective of Austin, I don't want anybody saying anything about him in a negative way" EIN thanks Ed Gibbs for the word-up (News, Source;EG/ElvisInfoNet)
'ELVIS: Opening Night 1972' MRS CD Review: Elvis’ first 1972 Las Vegas season ran from January 26th through February 23rd, 1972. Elvis was in great shape both physically and vocally, and he was once again serious about performing.
While a large number of fans think that Elvis started losing inspiration and impetus after the power-year of 1970, his rejuvenation of his first live performances in 1972 demonstrate another more positive aspect. Introducing the new songs 'You Gave Me A Mountain', ‘I'll Remember You’ , 'A Big Hunk O'Love' and the brilliant 'An American Trilogy' would enrich Elvis’ live shows for the rest of his career. So while Elvis collectors may have heard the bootleg recording multiple times before, you have never truly enjoyed this concert, or appreciated its importance, until this sessional MRS audio Remaster.
Elvis was in superb form and this set-list - along with the new MRS audio remaster - is truly sensational. Check out EIN's detailed review here
(CD Reviews;ElvisInformationNetwork)
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.'
The full Elvis with the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra 2023 tour dates are as follows:
• 25 October – Glasgow OVO Hydro
• 26 October – Manchester AO Arena
• 27 October – Birmingham Resorts World Arena
• 28 October – Newcastle Utilita Arena
• 29 October – Leeds First Direct Arena
• 31 October – London The O2
• 1 November – Cardiff International Arena
Tickets available from Friday, Dec 2 from venues, or via ticketline.co.uk, bookingsdirect.com or ticketmaster.co.uk. (News, Source:MayerNissim, smoothradio.com/EIN)
'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 unreleasedtracks 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 THOUGHTSabout Elvis' Camden releases... EIN contributor Neil Colombari reveals all...
(Spotlight; Source;Neil Colombari/ElvisInfoNet)
(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...
'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)
USA >>>
UK >>>
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...
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.
'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.
(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...
ELVIS 'Austin Butler Pre-Production Test Footage': This is a sensational clip. Forget all those average Elvis Impersonators you might have seen, here Austin Butler truly inhabits Elvis character showing what he could do
at a pre-production jam.
As 'Depper' rightly comments, "Austin was a brilliant choice as there are millions of new young Elvis fans just based on the trailers alone. Many more will join us in the Elvis fanbase as soon as the movie drops. This movie successfully explains the contributions to music of Elvis Presley, to today's current generation. Elvis' legacy has been given a tremendous boost, and will help young people understand that he was a force of good for American music and humanity." (News, Source;EIN)
'ELVIS' EIN movie review: Keith Richards said, "Elvis hit like a bombshell ... it was like the world went from black and white to Technicolor." While those words apply to Elvis Presley they could similarly apply to Baz Luhrmann's style of film direction. Compared to the regular Hollywood output Baz Luhrmann movies have a similar feel of busting out of jail and going from black-and-white to technicolour. They are loud, brash, super-colourful, fast-edited and exciting, they have their own language and style.
The full-bore soundtrack, the glowing colour, the revelation of Austin Butler's truly stunning performance and the real excitement of the fast editing really does make it feel that Luhrmann has grabbed Elvis' true spirit. The film not only tells Elvis’ life but has the genuine excitement of the real Elvis, something that I've never felt from any previous Elvis Bio-Pic.
The incredible fact is that while the movie includes so many snatches of real Elvis (Hy Garner interview, Lisa Marie, Al Dvorin etc) yet Austin Butler has one so enthralled in playing Elvis' character that you can hardly spot the difference.
However typical of a Luhrmann movie you can see why fans' overly detailed fact-checking needs to be left at the door - and knowledgeable Elvis fans should just enjoy the ride. Go here for EIN Piers Beagley's exclusive and detailed review
(Review; Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
Don't miss out on one of EIN's most-viewed and controversial interviews of all-time - Mike Stone tells all.
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
UPDATED- The collapse of the Elvis Bootleg Empire: Has Ernst won the war?’: Back in 1999 Ernst Jorgensen and Roger Semon convinced BMG to let them start the FTD collectors label in order to counteract the Elvis bootleg companies which had been selling unreleased material to fans since the very first vinyl bootleg 'Please Release Me' was issued back in 1970.
Of all the bootleg labels that have come and gone the 'Madison' label was one of the very few that always produced high-quality releases and which happened to start at the same time as FTD. The designs were top-notch and with detailed sleeve notes they easily competed with the legal Elvis releases.
In 2021 ‘Madison’ have returned with the new bootleg ‘A Legendary Performer Volume 9’ but all is not what was promised. The Elvis bootleg vaults are empty and FTD appears to have won the game. Go here as EIN’s Piers Beagley checks out the lack of new material and considers the bootleg era at an end... And EIN wants YOUR SAY -Our article is now updated with YOUR FEEDBACK - and more... (Spotlight; Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
Don't forget that EIN's Elvis Facebook page regularly features fabulous RARE newly discovered photos of Elvis. This month EIN celebrates our 45,000 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.
Elvis "BACK ON DVD!": Paramount have re-released three classic Elvis movies this month on DVD. 'G.I. Blues'- BACK ON DVD! The year was 1960... 'Girls! Girls! Girls!' - BACK ON DVD! The year was 1962... 'Paradise, Hawaiian Style'- BACK ON DVD! The year was 1966...
From Paramount Pictures.-
Release date: March 12, 2021.
From Amazon for $14.99. (News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
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‘From Elvis in Nashville’ Box-set EIN In-Depth Review:
A 4CD collection presenting the definitive chronicle of Elvis' 1970 marathon sessions with the "Nashville Cats".
Recorded live in RCA's Studio B over the course of an epic five day run in June 1970 now, for the first time, the sessions are presented in pristine audio, newly mixed by acclaimed engineer Matt Ross-Spang without the added overdubs appearing on earlier releases.
Elvis’ 1970 Nashville session was very different from the previous Memphis sessions or even Elvis’ later sessions. Nashville was a real mix of Elvis recording RCA supplied demos along with one-take spontaneous favourites Elvis threw into the mix.
As Elvis noted, "It don't take much to get these guys going, boy, I'll tell you…. Just give them a "well..." and they're gone. That's what I call 'Sittin' on ready". EIN's Piers Beagley explores this new box-set to discover one of the best Elvis releases in years..
(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
US CD box-set
US Vinyl
UK CD box-set
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‘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)
Amazon Deals on ELVIS Blu-rays - Beware of excessive prices at some Elvis dealers.
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'ELVIS In The 2010s' A Personal Review of the Past Decade: Rather like Elvis’s own career, each decade since Elvis’s death appears to have had a theme or identity of its own. Clearly the late 1970s were difficult for RCA as they struggled to find the right direction with which to take their posthumous releases, and so it was the 1980s that was the decade when the company slowly but surely learned how to look back at Elvis's legacy and start to make some sense of it.
The 1990s were when that reached a peak, with the decades boxed sets, and the Elvis in the 90s series, thus bringing virtually the whole catalogue back into print in a coherent way.
The 2000s were when errors of judgement at retail level started to occur (despite huge successes like Elv1s), but also when FTD came into its own and flourished. And so what will we make of Elvis releases of the 2010s when we look back on them from the future? Go here for EIN contributor Shane Brown's personal take on the highs and lows of Elvis product that has come our way over the last decade....
(Spotlight, Source;ShaneBrown/ElvisInformationNetwork)
Elvis LIVE Aug 23, 1969 Album Review + Elvis Concert Review 1969: ..."The atmosphere throughout the entire hotel was nail-bitingly electric! It is difficult for me to describe and paint a true portrait of attending in person this unique occasion - Elvis' Return to Splendor LIVE in 1969 - but I'll try my best. I want, and hope, you will understand the excitement of what has to be the pinnacle of Elvis' career to date!" Joan Gansky was lucky because not only was she in the audience for Elvis' TV musical renaissance of the '68 NBC Special but she also saw Elvis at his most dynamic - first at his August 22nd 1969 Midnight Show and then the following night at his August 23rd Dinner Show. Joan Gansky has written this insightful and emotional article for EIN in 2019, fifty years later, looking back at this special event from 1969 as well as providing her review of the new RCA vinyl album of the August 23rd Dinner Show. One of EIN's most important articles we have ever published- Go here for Joan and Paul Gansky's incredible articles and exclusive photos
(Review/Spotlight, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
'Elvis - Made In Germany’ In-Depth Review: The new MRS 'Elvis - Made In Germany – The Complete Private Recordings’ 4CD set contains more than 3 hours of the private recordings Elvis made while off duty in Germany when he was serving as a soldier in the US army during the 1958 -1960 period and, includes rare tracks from a recently discovered tape comprising over an hour of unheard personal recordings. The 152-page hardback book contains rare photographs and documents plus a comprehensive text provided by Gordon Minto, which discusses each of Elvis’ RCA studio (non-film) recording sessions held during 1957-58, before focusing on the private recordings he made in Germany.
The BONUS CD features the essential RCA studio masters from 1957-58.With such an expansive book, along with hours of Elvis jamming with his friends in Germany, there is plenty to discuss as well as finding out what extra material this set contains over the official releases. Go here as EIN's Nigel Patterson & Piers Beagley provide an in-depth review of this new MRS release
(Book 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..
Mindi Miller Interview with EIN: Mindi Miller was a working actress when she met Elvis in early 1975. She was interested in karate (she performed all her own movie stunts), exploring spirituality and the Bible and so they had a lot in common. Mindi Miller and Elvis bonded over their common interests and soon afterwards he asked her to go on tour with him in April 1975.
She stayed friends with Elvis through the years - along with members of the 'Memphis Mafia' - and attended his funeral.
EIN's Sanja Meegin recently caught up with Mindi Miller to talk about her close friendship with Elvis over the years.
In this fascinating interview she discusses. . . - Her first night with Elvis
- How Elvis persuaded her to cancel her overseas movie & modelling plans
- Their mutual interest in Karate
- Graceland and meeting Lisa Marie
- Attending Elvis' funeral . . . and much much more... Go here for EIN's Sanja Meegin and her intimate and detailed discussion with the delightful Mindi Miller - Now with Reader Feedback.
Official Elvis CD Box-sets at bargain prices through Amazon UK
'Marty Lacker: A Life Well-Lived' & Elvis at American Studio's Interview: It was with immense sadness that last month EIN had to report on the death of our great friend - and a true friend to Elvis - Marty Lacker. We will miss him dearly. Marty is well-known as one of the key members of the Memphis Mafia and also co-Best Man at Elvis' wedding. He was known for both his honesty and being forthright with his opinions. He was the only member of the Memphis Mafia who still watched and commented on recent Elvis News. He had no issue with holding people to account (especially ones who would inflate their importance within Elvis' legacy) and would regularly ask EIN to add his comments or to correct any inaccuracy. Elvis fans often ask about Marty Lacker's background, how he came to meet Elvis, as well as his involvement in the music industry outside of working for The King.
As a prelude to Ken Sharp's fascinating interview with Marty Lacker and a discussion about Elvis' famous American Studio' Memphis sessions, EIN presents "Marty Lacker: a life well-lived" in which Marty tells of his life in the music industry, his friendship with Elvis along with his dislike of the over-controlling Col Parker. Go here to learn all you need to know about Marty Lacker as well as Elvis outstanding Memphis American Sound sessions in 1969. (Spotlight; Source,KenSharp/ElvisInformationNetwork)
'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.
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
'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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EIN is a not-for-profit Elvis Fan Club website posting daily news and informative articles for Elvis Presley's legion of fans.
EIN tries to credit all news sources, as well as link to the original articles if excerpts are used.
If you believe we have used copyrighted material please contact us and we will remove it immediately.
EIN also has a local Australian national Elvis Fan Club for paid up members featuring quarterly newsletters along with free EIN members cds plus an annual EIN Elvis Mega Quiz with special prizes.
The printed newsletters have extra content, articles and reviews to this website along with the popular Elvis EIN Mega Quiz.
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