'EPiC' - Elvis Presley in Concert' - Review by Paul Belard: 'EPiC' - Elvis Presley in Concert' opened last week in cinemas worldwide. It has already received rave reviews in the general media and now profilic author Paul Belard provides his take. 
Luhrmann has noted.." In EPiC' Elvis takes the audience through the journey of his life, weaving never-before-seen footage with iconic performances that have never been presented in this way, from the 1970 Vegas show, on tour in 1972 and even precious moments of the 1957 “gold jacket” performance in Hawaii....”

Belard notes that, "This movie was a vindication for me. A unique film in gorgeous colors, scenes that brought chills along the spine, songs that made you want to tap your feet, some that made you hold back tears, seeing this man that brought us so much in regal splendor...  

Go here to read EIN contributor Paul Belard's full review...
(MovieReview, Source;ElvisInformation Network)

‘EPiC’ expands to UK saturation: In the UK Universal has successfully expanded 'EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert' from 53 UK and Ireland IMAX venues last week to 637 cinemas nationwide. 

The UK weekend box office was £1.14m, and adding in the week-long IMAX preview brings the total to £1.9m (US$2.5mill), taking third place at the UK and Ireland box office.
The London 'BFI IMAX' remains the top-performing site.

Check 'Universal UK' for cinemas & tickets
or check with your local cinema, it's playing in nearly every city

New UK openings include  QUAD Derby, Olympic Studios Barnes, Cinema In The Arches Battersea, The Parade Marlborough, Curzon Cinema Clevedon, Zeffirellis Ambleside, Ilkley Cinema and Wetherby Cinema.

The UK Times review gave 'EPiC' five stars
"The King Rises Again - Luhrmann’s Elvis tribute is a five-star delight — and better than his biopic
Drawn from 69 boxes of forgotten footage discovered in a Kansas salt mine, this is a thrilling tribute to The King, even if you’re no fan of his music"

(Source:BFI/EIN) EIN thanks Ed Gibbs for the word-up

'EPiC' Brilliant Cinema Success!: The data is now in for the second weekend internationally.
While IMAX presentations are dropping off, the film is now in most local cinemas. 
And the results are excellent.

US Domestic Box Office - $7,825,920
International Box Office   $6,758,000
Worldwide Box Office -  $14,583,920

This is very impressive for a retrospective music documentary.

Comparing'EPiC' with 2016's 'The Beatles: Eight Days a Week—The Touring Years'.
It too had a famous director Ron Howard, a budget of $5 mill and eventually grossed $12.3 million worldwide.
It also had a similar marketing "push" - although no one does Marketing & Publicity quite like Baz Luhrmann!  
And on week #2 - 'EPiC ELVIS' has overtaken 'The Beatles' - nice! 

In Australia 'EPiC' is the 4th highest grossing film last week, generating nearly $2mill of that International Box-Office.. 
1 Scream 7   - $2,503,400 
2  “Wuthering Heights”  - $11,108,750
3 Crime 101  -  $3,228,100  
4 EPiC Elvis Presley in Concert - $1,874,550 
(News, Source;Numbers/PB/EIN)

'EPiC' Soundtrack in Worldwide Charts: The 'EPiC: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack' has only been out a week but already it is doing extremely well in the charts.
The highest charting Elvis release in years. Let's hope it continues to climb in its second week.

On the UK Album Charts
UK Top 100 Albums - straight in at #17 
UK Soundtrack Albums Chart - #1
UK Physical Albums Chart - #5
UK Album Downloads Chart - #5

In Australia 'EPiC' debuts at #26 on Top 50 ARIA Albums Chart 
Amazon Australia - #3 on 'Best Sellers in Music' 

Scottish Album Chart - #5
German Top Albums Chart debut at #49

Amazon USA 'Best Sellers' EPiC is #3
No sign of it yet on the Billboard charts - 

'EPiC' - Elvis Presley in Concert' EIN Review: Baz Luhrmann's 'EPiC' - Elvis Presley in Concert' opens in cinemas worldwide this weekend. It has already received rave reviews in the general media and now EIN has a deeper look. 
Director Baz Luhrmann explained.."'EPiC' is not specifically a documentary, nor a concert film: Elvis takes the audience through the journey of his life, weaving never-before-seen footage with iconic performances that have never been presented in this way, from the 1970 Vegas show, on tour in 1972 and even precious moments of the 1957 “gold jacket” performance in Hawaii. 
Most importantly, Elvis will sing and tell you about his life in first person, through both classic and contemporary musical prisms.”

Directed by Baz Luhrmann and edited by Jonathan Redmond, the documentary is 96 minutes of stunning insight into Elvis the artist, caring friend and creative genius from small-town Mississippi. 
Watching 'EPiC' on big screen is one of those deeply satisfying tactile experiences that can truly only be felt in your body. A great meal. A satisfying run. Swimming in warm ocean. Crisp mountain air. Playing with your puppy. Having a good buzz...

EIN's Piers Beagley and Vince Alex explain the wonder and excitement of the best Elvis documentary ever produced...
Note that this in-depth review deliberately avoids any major spoilers.
(MovieReview, Source;ElvisInformation Network) 

'EPiC' - Elvis Presley in Concert' EIN Review: Baz Luhrmann's 'EPiC' - Elvis Presley in Concert' opens in cinemas worldwide today Feb 27, 2026. It has already received rave reviews in the general media and now EIN has a deeper look. 
Director Baz Luhrmann explained.."'EPiC' is not specifically a documentary, nor a concert film: Elvis takes the audience through the journey of his life, weaving never-before-seen footage with iconic performances that have never been presented in this way, from the 1970 Vegas show, on tour in 1972 and even precious moments of the 1957 “gold jacket” performance in Hawaii. 
Most importantly, Elvis will sing and tell you about his life in first person, through both classic and contemporary musical prisms.”

Directed by Baz Luhrmann and edited by Jonathan Redmond, the documentary is 96 minutes of stunning insight into Elvis the artist, caring friend and creative genius from small-town Mississippi. 
Watching 'EPiC' on big screen is one of those deeply satisfying tactile experiences that can truly only be felt in your body. A great meal. A satisfying run. Swimming in warm ocean. Crisp mountain air. Playing with your puppy. Having a good buzz...

EIN's Piers Beagley and Vince Alex explain the wonder and excitement of the best Elvis documentary ever produced...
Note that this in-depth review deliberately avoids any major spoilers.
(MovieReview, Source;ElvisInformation Network) 

First, however, Luhrmann had to find the missing sound for all the material in MGM’s archives. Because “Elvis” was a success, Luhrmann was able to hire a researcher who he said was really more of a full-time detective to track down the audio, which often involved shady exchanges in parking lots with people selling a few minutes of sound at a time on the black market. In some cases Luhrmann had to convince collectors who didn’t want to part with their material that his intentions were pure, meeting with them multiple times until they trusted him with crucial footage. 
Once Luhrmann had all of the material, he took it to (Beatles Get Back) Peter Jackson’s Park Road so they could restore the footage to its original glory. Luhrmann was intent on presenting Elvis and his music as they were, so the idea was to preserve the footage without altering it. 
“There’s not a frame of AI in this film. There’s not a visual effect. What Peter and his team do is take the negative and take the abrasions out of it and reproduce it at its highest quality. Then we take it back for color grading, which is a very sensitive art. It’s just spending hours and hours, which I did with our colorist.”

The rigorous work pays off in “EPiC,” which looks and sounds like it was shot yesterday. 
“The pictorial resolution is achieved through painstaking love. Peter and his team have this love and there’s no one like them on the planet. Think of what they did with that first World War picture [‘They Shall Not Grow Old’]. Think of what they did with The Beatles.” 
The restoration work and the enveloping sound design by Wayne Pashley make “EPiC” an extraordinarily visceral experience that not only brings the viewer inside Presley’s perspective but gives a sense of what it would have been like to attend one of his concerts.
“We wanted to make it as much as possible like you’re actually at a

New Cover Artwork for Upcoming "Elvis Dressed to Rock": Karan Feder's 256-page hardcover about Elvis fashion is due for publication on August 4. 
The book description:
"For the first time, take an in-depth look at the fashion pieces that defined the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s style and career, with more than 150 pieces from the archives at Graceland including early suits, jumpsuits, capes, belts, jewelry, original designer sketches, and more.
"In the history of Rock ‘n Roll, no performer ever defined a style like Elvis. From his rockabilly suits of the 1950s to the jeweled jumpsuits of the 1970s, the King’s on-stage fashion became as iconic as his music.
From the now-iconic gold lamé suit in the 1950s and the leather suit from the 1968 Comeback Special to the last jumpsuit Elvis wore onstage in Indianapolis, this comprehensive book contains more than 150 pieces of stagewear spanning Elvis’s entire career.

Stunning jumpsuits, beautifully detailed capes, numerous belts, two-piece suits, studded boots, jewelry, and even chokers that were created for Elvis but never worn on stage are all featured in beautiful new photography created especially for this book. Also included are suits that until now have never been seen as their complete sets, including three Cisco Kid two-piece outfits worn in Las Vegas in 1971, and two of Elvis’s Dude Suits, worn in Las Vegas in 1972.

'EPiC'#2 film in Australia... almost $1M in just 4 days!: Australia does not have a large population, we only have five cities with over 1 million people. 
Yet 'EPiC' is the #2 grossing film in Australia  and has earned almost US$1M in just 4 days!  
'Wuthering Heights' with all its intense publicity is the only film earning more.
'EPiC's popularity means that it is also showing on the 2nd highest number of screens.

Weekend Australia Chart for February 20, 2026
1 “Wuthering Heights”  weekend Gross $2,680,475,  Screens 489,  p/s   $5,482 - 11 days
2  (new) 'EPiC Elvis Presley in Concert'  Gross $941,571, Screens 373,  per/screen $2,524 - 4 days 
3 'Crime 101' Gross $726,008,  Screens 343,  p/s $2,117 -  11 days
4 'Fackham Hall'  G $309,647,  Screens 266,  p/s  $1,164 - 4 days
5 'Marty Supreme' weekend gross  $234,620,  screens 185, p/s -  32 days 

(News, Source;Numbers/NP/EIN) 

‘Why unseen Elvis footage is a five-star triumph': Two reviews from our biggest National newspaper, The Australian.
The first ★★★★★ review by film critic Stephen Romei was in the main newspaper.
‘Unadulterated pleasure’: Why unseen Elvis footage is a five-star triumph'
It included...
.. Baz Luhrmann’s EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert is 100 minutes of unadulterated pleasure. I smiled throughout. Some moments sent tingles up my spine. That is rare. My mother says it transported her back to when she was a young rocker. That is a gift.
I had physical and emotional responses to this documentary. It is inspirational. If you have a young person in your life who dreams of being an entertainer, take them to this.
It’s not about the fat, sad Elvis we see at the end of Luhrmann’s superb 2022 drama ELVIS. It’s the happy, hammy, jocular, modest Elvis. He is utterly and beautifully alive.

Here we hear from the king of rock n roll himself, and his voice, on stage and off, is remarkable.
There is no narration, no interviews, except with Elvis, who discusses his childhood, his army days, his unfulfilling movies (“Same film. Different name. Twelve new songs”) and his musical influences. It’s fascinating.
The director is not silenced as he deftly uses Elvis’s voice. 

The focus is on Elvis in concert. He is extraordinary to watch. He has such fun. He loves the audience. He loves being on stage. The director shifts between the various Vegas gigs and earlier ones elsewhere.

Elvis does tap dance steps as the camera cuts to cheering audience member Sammy Davis Jnr. He laughs while recording The Beatles’ 1969 song Something. “Very suggestible lyrics,’’ he tells his bandmates. He dances with a fan’s bra on his head. We see him pash female fans. “It’s a hard way to make a living,’’ he notes.

Above all, we hear his voice, and what power it has. With hundreds of songs on offer I wondered how Luhrmann would finish. He does it with a perfect medley, including one cover, that tells a story of its own.
★★★★★ 

New film critic Nikki Gemell also added her thoughts in the weekend magazine. Her review included..
.. It looks like a documentary. Sounds like a documentary. But Baz Luhrmann and his creative team state, emphatically, that this is not a documentary. 'EPIC' is a "tone poem".  A phrase possibly deployed in an attempt to break free of obsessive Elvis fandom in pursuit of a broader audience. So. Not documentary, not concert film.. Something else entirely. 
Luhrmann's philosophy- "Let's just get out of the way" i.e., let Elvis tell his own story. The filmmaker worked with Peter Jackson, who collated The Beatles: Get Back documentary, as well as a crack Aussie team on sound and colouring.
The footage has been beautifully restored. No AI, no visual effects. Elvis unfiltered.
With added Baz-dazzlement: in the rapid-fire editing, general tone of busyness, unrelenting pace, diamante-saturated title sequence and remix of Suspicious Minds that may well send you out of the cinema smiling and quite possibly dancing. l did.
This is Baz's maximalist imagining of what a documentary is. Sorry, tone poem.Complete with actual poem, in homage to the great man, written and recited by Bono. Unnecessary, but hey, Bono. Very Baz.

Yet despite being billed as "his side of the story", EPIC doesn't deliver any earth-shattering revelations in terms of Elvis mythology.. his power was in performance. Which is still electrifying, up close. Very up close, if you see this in Imax.

Performers should watch this for a masterclass in connection, charisma and confidence. The most mesmeric singers are relaxed on-stage, which introduces an element of danger, spark and edge and spontaneity. Elvis, in this regard, was electrifying. Reactive. Loose. Free.  "Every song was like, we did it for the first time," he reveals in the interview. "That's one of the secrets." And it's about as revelatory as he gets.

So. Will EPIC break out beyond the world of Elvis obsessives? Not sure, yet it's worth a watch for the sheer glory of the masterful performer. The irrepressible left leg rarely stops shaking, even in rehearsals. And the interest lies in the practice room footage. A world rarely seen.
This is Elvis the musician, marinated in music and talking his muso talk - modulation, beats, voice - as he develops his big-band Vegas sound. We see Elvis jamming and at one point breaking into a tender version of Yesterday. Divine.

There's a natural authority here, in this collaborative and safe environment, among colleagues.

'EPiC' is about homage and wonder and joy. Near its conclusion, Can't Help Falling in Love had audience members shooting up, slipping their arms around each other, swaying and singing. The experience was worth it for that alone; to witness the interaction of an adoring crowd. Its allowed. Luhrmann encourages it. There are lots of Aussie technicians involved in bringing the forgotten footage to life, and I'd like to thank them for this gift. - ★★★½
(News, Source;The Australian/EIN) - EIN thanks Pat O'Donnell for the research 

'EPiC' Big Cinema Success!: The data is in for the opening weekend.
Most countries were only showing it on IMAX, while Australia luckily had it on IMAX as well as in local cinemas. 

The US Opening Weekend earnings = $3,215,440
International Box Office = $2,027,000
Worldwide Box Office = $5,242,440

This is very impressive for a retrospective music documentary.

And it is best to compare 'EPiC' with 2016's 'The Beatles: Eight Days a Week—The Touring Years'.
It too had a famous director Ron Howard, a budget of $5 mill and eventually grossed $12.3 million worldwide.
It also had a similar marketing "push" - although no one does Marketing & Publicity quite like Baz Luhrmann!  

EPiC's "Average per screen $" in USA was also noted as the highest of any film for the weekend box office. 
1 GOAT -   $4,961,563    Screens 3,863   p/s $1,284   
2 Wuthering Heights - $3,580,036   Screens 3,682  p/s  $972   
3 I Can Only Imagine 2 - $1,585,123 Screens 3,105  p/s  $510
7 'EPIC: Elvis Presley in Concert'  - $725,608  Screens 325  per/screen $2,232 

(News, Source;NP/PB/EIN) 

'EPiC' Soundtrack released: The 'EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert' Soundtrack CD was released yesterday and not only is it a fabulous compilation but Baz, of course, has some fun with the cover art. 
It's 75 minutes of "NEW" Elvis truly very, very, very enjoyable. 
It is basically the movie soundtrack (with full length songs where cut down). 
The "mash-ups" are great fun and the original Elvis versions have been remastered to glorious effect, new bass lines and redubbed backing-vocals where needed.
Elvis' vocal is super-clear and has an amazing presence.
It's hard to believe this material was recorded over 50 years ago.  

Some fans didn't like the re-worked 'In The Ghetto' studio version in the movie but the full-length mix is very clever, capturing the power of Elvis' vocal to an eerie empty landscape.   
The soundscape is glorious - as it should be. 
The Hampton Roads live material sound massive.  

'EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert' - Exclusive Clip: A new clip - only runs 47 seconds - from IGN "home for the latest movie and TV show trailers, including exclusive sneak peeks, teasers and first looks"
The clip seems to be semi-official. 

This has some lovely 'Baz Quality' footage of Elvis on stage.
'EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert - Exclusive Clip (2026)'

(News, Source;IGN/EIN) 

Luhrmann does much to rejuvenate the Elvis brand and allow suspicious minds to reassess.
He presents the alluring Elvis. The rehearsal footage is particularly endearing, showing a humble leader around whom the world revolves. 
It’s loose and likeable, even at the point where he slides into a couple of Beatles covers, Yesterday and Something, and doesn’t quite nail them.
The Vegas stage is where it’s at, though, and Luhrmann knows how to play it: long and loud. Most appealingly, EPiC focuses on his big live bangers like the pulsating Polk Salad Annie and Little Sister and lets them run hard, rather than re-hashing the over-exposed hits like Hound Dog or Jailhouse Rock. 
Their driving rhythm sections would not be out of place in a contemporary song.

The restored footage is crisp and colourful, as Elvis’ insane ’70s outfitting deserves. And the sound is crystal clear and thumping. 
Need it be said, this is something to experience in a big cinema.

More 'EPiC' reviews: Other media have similarly heaped praise on 'EPiC – Elvis Presley In Concert'.
The well-respected UK music magazine MOJO noted...
"Beautifully restored document of The King in his live pomp" 
The review includes..
.. What Luhrmann has achieved here is an extremely enjoyable documentary celebration of one of the greatest performers of the 20th century, which delivers what his disappointingly reductive 2022 biopic failed to do. (EIN disagrees with that last point!)  
The footage has been beautifully restored, including 8mm home movie clips; for example, while the 1957 shots of Elvis wearing the gold suit onstage in Hawaii have long been on YouTube, here they positively sparkle. 
Rehearsal sequences reaffirm Elvis’s absolute control of the music, bringing out the best in band and backing vocalists alike, and when treading the boards he clearly has the audience in the palm of his hand. 
At one point in the voiceover he admits to stage fright – “I get it every time” – but this is hard to tell from the way he effortlessly commands the room, patiently saying to a woman attempting to tear off one of the tassels from his jumpsuit “It won’t come off, dear, it’s tied”, and dispensing relaxed, witty asides, “It’s dry up here. I feel like Bob Dylan slept in my mouth”. 
Fans seem close to fainting, Sammy Davis Jr and Cary Grant show up backstage, and the now-lost world of Elvis’s Vegas looks like an impossibly glamorous place to spend an evening.

The sound is mostly pristine, although given a modern gloss which may annoy purist fans, but overall, the film effectively showcases Elvis, front and centre, whose live performances have lost nothing of their intoxicating power with the passing decades.

'Elvis Milton Berle Show June 4 &5, 1956' New book: Prolific author Paul Belard has just published his newest book about Elvis' sensational performance on the Milton Berle TV show. 
... Elvis’ legendary rendition of “Hound Dog” delighted the fans. It still does. However, it enraged the critics. One described his exhibition as “tinged with the kind of animalism that should be confined to dives and bordellos.” Another explained with a suggestion of racism that Elvis “makes up for vocal shortcomings with the weirdest and plainly suggestive animation short of an aborigine’s mating dance.”
The reaction of the Catholic Church was predictable. In an article titled “Beware of Elvis Presley”, it wrote “If the agencies - TV and others - would stop handling such nauseating stuff, all the Presleys of our land would soon be swallowed up in the oblivion they deserve.”
Well, guess who had the last laugh! 

Belard notes, while written about by others, in keeping with the tradition of this series of books which provides an almost 'day by day' look at Elvis' career this pivotal event could not be overlooked. A few colorized pictures brighten the story and several new photos and newspaper articles are included here.
Out Feb 15, 2026 - ‎ 210 pages
Go here to Amazon to check it out
(News, Source;ElvisDayByDay/Amazon)

'Clambake' VINYL Special Edition: A limited edition based on the original UK release and features the Red Dot RCA Victor label. 
The double album includes original soundtrack masters, studio outtakes and bonus tracks.
Includes four versions of Clambake ! but also outtakes of Guitar Man and Big Boss Man.

A 'Clambake' FTD vinyl album has not been previously released.  

- - - - - Click for high-res full image

Both products due for April 2026 release
See FTD / SONY CD News for tracklists
(News, Source;FTD/EIN) 

Larry Geller's “Unchained Melody” OUT NOW: The E-Book “Unchained Melody” by Elvis' spiritual confidante Larry Geller is out now. 
He notes, "I'm happy and proud to invite you to LarryGeller.com, where you can purchase my new ebook, Unchained Melody. View all of Elvis' favorite books and learn things about him you never knew".
You probably think you know all there is to know about Elvis… Think again.
Nothing even approaches what is revealed in this exciting and ground-breaking book, the most compelling personal account ever of Elvis Presley… because this is the story Elvis made Larry Geller promise to tell.    
From the confidence born from direct experience, Larry guides us on an epic journey that profoundly deepens our understanding of Elvis’ search for meaning and spiritual growth. 
You will understand the real Elvis. You will know him, and very likely, love him even more. 
Maybe best of all, you will listen in on gripping, in-the-moment conversations that Elvis and Larry shared on a myriad of subjects over the years, including his feelings about the future of his career, women, and life after death.  Elvis was a voracious reader; you will enter his world of esoterica and his library of the world’s great wisdom teachings. 
What Larry reveals about Elvis here will shock some people; it's guaranteed to surprise you. Because what you will discover is a portrait of Elvis that was so intimate and personal that he never publicly let it out in words, only through his music. Yet the purity and authenticity of this story will absolutely convince you that you have, finally, met the real Elvis. 
Through Larry’s eyes, you will also experience the challenging last days of Elvis’ life through the moving personal journal he kept during that final year.
Go here to LarryGeller.com
(News, Source;LG/EIN)

The film has also had its Australian IMAX previews ahead of the rest of the world.
The film opens in regular Australian cinemas on Thursday 19 February.

Check >> Universal Pictures for cinema bookings 
Also check with your local cinema

Check here for Australian IMAX sessions

EIN was super-impressed with the film, without a doubt Luhrmann's use of outstanding sound, colour and fast editing is what makes this movie so great, but that is a given with all his movies. 

Avoiding too many spoilers, highlights included both 'Polk Salad Annie' and 'Burning Love' where both combined Rehearsal and Live performance footage, the upgraded quality of 'Little Sister / Get Back', 'Are You

Lonesome Tonight' (Elvis sitting on the stool), Elvis in his hotel suite relaxing with the guys and new "celebrity Party" footage, the stunning version of 'Oh Happy Day' and, of course, the new footage from Hampton Roads - plus the new audio mash-ups.

Baz neatly highlights the musicians & Elvis' interactions - everyone being totally focused on following Elvis.

EPiC is STUNNING and with all the fast-editing will need several viewings to take it all in.

Luhrmann also posted this great Sydney shot telling everyone that 'EPiC' was happening right now!

(News, Source;Various/EIN) 

Baz Luhrmann Chats 'EPiC': Australian's 'Today' breakfast show - on Ch9 this morning - featured 'EPiC' director Baz Luhrmann discussing his a one-of-a-kind ELVIS cinematic experience.

It's a cute 4 minute look at this great new movie

(News, Source;CH9/EIN)

“King Creole: The Disputed Territories of 1950s American Youth Culture” (Anthony Thomas McKenna, Routledge): This book positions King Creole in the disputed territories of 1950s youth culture. It is one of Elvis’s best regarded films, but one of his least financially successful. It is a portrait of youthful alienation and juvenile delinquency made at a time when these topics were becoming less fashionable in teenpics.
The author argues that King Creole's release during the death throes of rock and roll in America helps to position it as an outlier among youth films of the time in three distinct ways. First, the author demonstrates how the post-rock and roll release of the film allowed for a better harnessing of the star's 'Elvisness.'

Second, the author conducts an extensive examination of the film's production records, which show how the film's portrait of youth alienation and delinquency pre-dated America's big screen fixation on these topics, making the film not wholly bound by concurrent youth conventions.
Third, the author challenges the dominant reading of the film as being about intergenerational conflict and asserts that it is about shared grief. This nuanced approach distinguishes King Creole from other 1950s youth-oriented films and explains its enduring critical acclaim despite commercial underperformance.

Available in hardback and Kindle formats.
See AmazonUSA Hardback / Kindle < - - > >> AmazonUK Hardback / Kindle 

“Rethinking Elvis” (Mark Duffett ed., Oxford University Press): Decades after his passing, Elvis Presley remains one of popular music's greatest icons. He was among the most successful, influential, socially significant, and controversial performers of the twentieth century, with a celebrity so indelible that every recent American president has negotiated its orbit. While much of the coverage of Elvis' life concerns his personal history and musical ability, Rethinking Elvis pushes beyond the familiar to address Elvis' branding, historical and geographic reception, heritage, and fan phenomenon.

Using Elvis' iconography as a point of departure, popular music scholars and historians contend with issues related to the performer's whiteness, Southern identity, and gender, among others, in turn offering myriad opportunities to pursue new approaches in the emergent field of Elvis studies.

Available in Hardback, Softcover and Kindle formats.
See AmazonUSA Softcover / Kindle << -- >> AmazonUK Paperback / Kindle 

See EIN's 'Elvis Book News 2025' for more on Dr. Mark Duffett and his fascinating Elvis publications  

'EPiC' two Ads in Grammy Awards: The Grammy Awards is usually seen by over 18 million viewers on CBS TV in the USA, plus millions more worldwide.
Today the US presentation included the trailer for Baz Luhrmann's 'EPiC' twice during the 3 plus hour broadcast.
With the new 4K quality and fast Baz Luhrmann editing the trailer made a worthy impact.

This was the major publicity Elvis fans needed to see going to a huge and musically appreciative audience. 

Once again proving that Baz Luhrmann knows how to market his movies.

Lisa Marie Birthday: February 1st 2026 would have been Lisa Marie's 58th birthday.
Her tragic death on January 12, 2023 robbed her of an well-deserved old-age surrounded by her loving children.

Priscilla posted this photo and message on instagram ...
'Happy Heavenly Birthday'

Riley Keough shared a touching photo on Instagram - noting "We miss you"- of herself as a baby being held by her loving mother Lisa Marie. 
Photo below left

Go here to EIN's 'Lisa Marie Presley World' for relevant news updates.

Lisa Marie's memoir 'From Here to the Great Unknown' tells her incredible life-story and is well-worth reading, especially via Audio-Book where you can hear her truly emotional recorded words.

(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

Luhrmann explains, “Elvis takes the Simon and Garfunkel song and he turns it into a kind of power ballad, a spiritual. I call him Orphean. Orpheus, the mythical character, was such a great singer that the very rocks and stones would get up and follow him. Elvis could take a song and personalise it in such a way.
People don’t understand the level of musicianship that he naturally had. He just looks at musicians and he’s conducting with his body and his soul.”

The 96-minute film was warmly received at the Toronto Film Festival last September, Variety called it "extraordinary".
“It’s having an effect even on people who don’t have much of a relationship with or even care about Elvis. 
He is someone who’s had many documentaries made about him – and some of them are very good – but they’re generally other people telling you about Elvis. Not actually him telling you in his own voice and in his own words.”

It took more than two years for all this archive footage to be restored by Peter Jackson’s Park Road Post Production and enhanced to cinema quality. 
“It’s called EPiC because Elvis, as a performer, was epic. It had to be a big-screen experience. It had to be a theatrical experience. It had to be as if you were there.
.. I never realised how funny he was. And you get so clearly that he is so, so, so comfortable on stage but so uncomfortable off stage.
One really well-known person, who I won’t mention, but she’s a legend, said to me, ‘No human is built to be that famous’. There’s a level of fame that humanity has trouble dealing with and there’s only a handful of people who have ever been as famous as Elvis.

Elvis came up with the idea of turning karate into dance. At the time … hip hop was also turning martial arts into dance but Elvis created a movement style.

'Wearin’ That Night Life Look' Video: A YouTube treat by Akshat Luthra.

A very cool video looking at the new 'Jamieson Shaw Remix' mashup of Elvis' 'Wearin' That Loved On Look / Night Life' which also features  samples of 'I, John' and 'Let Yourself Go'.

EIN NOTE: This is purely a teaser and not representative of the Baz Luhrmann movie

(News, Source;ALuthra/EIN)

Baz Luhrmann discusses 'EPiC' with EPcore ⚡️: Yesterday Australian director Baz Luhrmann also took time out to talk with his group of supportive fans.
Via EPiC Facebook page and Instagram he assured fans that the movie would be shown in their countries and also on IMAX.

He noted, "Going LIVE w the EPcore ⚡️
Finding the EPiC FB group was an incredible surprise and to support the core I'll be going LIVE to read some of the epic discussions happening on the page… maybe I’ll even answer some of your burning Qs! 
When the EPcore speak, I listen! 
An EPiC IMAX update..
Let’s give ELVIS the World Tour he dreamed of but never had.”

Go here to Instagram 
Go here to Facebook

(News, Source;BazL/JGansky) 

Graceland Closed Due to Snow!: EPE announced that due to winter weather in Memphis, Graceland tours are canceled for the moment. 
Guests planning to visit in the next few days should visit Graceland.com before traveling in case there are further weather impacts.
Freezing rain, subzero temps are expected Sunday as the winter storm continues
The historic deep freeze sweeping through Memphis will continue into Sunday and Monday.
Freezing rain and sleet is expected over the weekend with wind chill temperatures dipping to 8 degrees. 

Check out Graceland in the beautiful snowfall via GracelandCam.
(News, Source;EPE) 

‘Elvis Amarillo Texas - On Tour 1974’ New MRS: UK Label ‘Memphis Recording Service’ (MRS) will release a CD Deluxe and 2LP Gatefold titled ‘On Tour 1974 - Amarillo Texas’ in March 2026.

Early in his summer tour of 1974, Elvis Presley made a memorable stop in Amarillo, Texas. On June 19th, he performed for one night only at the Civic Auditorium, captivating the audience with his legendary stage presence. 

This show has been newly remastered in stereo and includes rare photographs and memorabilia that sets the scene for this event.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Click for high-res pic

The 2LP set and will be available in both Black and Clear vinyl. 
Please note, the clear vinyl is ONLY available from exclusive Elvis dealers and fan clubs and NOT through mainstream public stores. 

CD & 2LP TRACKLIST- 19 JUNE 1974 – Civic Center, Amarillo Texas
1. See See Rider, 2. I Got A Woman/Amen, 3. Elvis Talks, 4.  Love Me, 5.  Tryin’ To Get To You, 6.  All Shook Up, 7. Love Me Tender, 8. Hound Dog, 9. Fever, 10. Polk Salad Annie, 11. Why Me Lord?, 12. Suspicious Minds, 13.  Band Introductions, 14. I Can’t Stop Loving You, 15. Help Me, 16. An American Trilogy, 17. Let Me Be There, 18. Heartbreak Hotel, 19. Elvis Talks 2, 20. Funny How Time Slips Away, 21. Big Boss Man, 22.  Can’t Help Falling In Love (Incomplete)

Click for high-res pic - the vinyl LP cover is again a stunner!

EIN Note: This concert was previously released back in 2005 by FTD as part of their ‘Rockin’ Across Texas’. Back then we thought the audio was “pretty dull and at times the band very distant” - so this concert is an excellent choice for a proper MRS stereo remaster.

(News, Source;MRS/EIN)

“Stump” Monroe, Elvis drummer, has died: It is with profound sadness that the family of Jerome “Stump” Monroe announce his passing. 
He passed peacefully at home after a brief illness. 

Elvis super-fan Warren Schubert posted this lovely tribute..
... "Today, a friend passed.  This man wasn't just any friend, he is Jerome Stump Monroe, drummer, jokester, ladies man and as nice a person as you could ever be lucky enough to meet. 
I only knew him for a short time, but I loved him like an uncle, you know the one you cant wait to see again?!?!  
Being able to watch him as he brought smiles to others with his kind words and quick wit is something i will always treasure. 
Sitting with him at 35,000 feet and both of us listening to Elvis’s first album and having him drumming along on his leg, saying to me “That's my boy!” Is a memory that only comes but once in a lifetime. 
Elvis, was just one artist he played behind, toss in James Brown, Wilson

Picket, The Sweet Inspirations, and that one time with Little Richard. There were so many other acts famous and almost famous that he kept time for, always finding the perfect pocket to hold that groove in. 
Even knowing this day was coming hasn’t made it any easier to handle. 
I will miss you Stump, as you said to me many times, “You’re good people and I love you, man!” 
You’ll never be forgotten because your huge heart touched so many others."

Jerome 'Stump' Monroe was a charming, down-to-earth, self-effacing man who was an absolute delight to chat to when EIN called for an interview back in 2011 - and despite playing over 1,000 concerts with The Elvis Presley Show he still considered himself as no one special! 
- - - Please check out our 2011 interview below 

With our special thanks to Warren Schubert

(News, Source;FB/Warren Schubert)

'Elvis' Christmas Album' 
A special Christmas package with a calendar card, 1 Elvis Christmas coaster, 2 special surprises and 2 CDs.
1 CD includes the original album tracks (remastered) plus the album tracks in electronically reprocessed stereo as released in the 60s (EIN, Reprocessed Stereo? oh goodie!!) and some alternate tracks. 
This disc was previously released as ‘Elvis’ Christmas Album’ (2016 edition by ElvisOne).
Also included is a Bonus CD with Remixed and Alternate tracks, including remixed versions of ‘Blue Christmas’, ‘Silent Night’ but also ‘Auld Lang Syne’ from December 31, 1976. 
A very nice Christmas special! 

We’ve used the cover artwork from the U.K. re-release of ‘Elvis’ Christmas Album’ (Camden).

see 'All The Elvis CD News 2026' for more details and full tracklist

'Soundtrack Sessions - Hollywood Collector's Edition'
A collection of 22 Alternate Movie tracks with some still not released through Elvis’ record company plus a CD with a collection of interviews, promos and original radio spots for Elvis movies like ‘G.I. Blues’, ‘Roustabout’, ‘Viva Las Vegas’, ‘Tickle Me’, ‘Charro’, ‘The Trouble With Girls’ and others. 
This special package contains a 20 pages booklet, 1 Elvis movie coaster and 3 unique film cells!

Includes the tracks Roustabout (take 16, vocal overdub), Am I Ready (take 6), A Dog's Life (take 1, vocal overdub), Lonely Man (take 3, record version), Smorgasbord  (take 2), Anyone (Could Fall In Love With You) (take 2, semi-binaural), Kissin' Cousins (Hillbilly vocal overdub), My Desert Serenade (take 10), A Cane And A High Starched Collar (take 6), six radio trailers for G.I. Blues, seven radio trailers for Flaming Star, ten radio trailers for Roustabout and many many more 

see 'All The Elvis CD News 2026' for more details and full tracklist

'EPiC' L.A. Premiere: Elvis and James Brown were both regarded at times as the "hardest working man in show-business" but 'EPiC' director Baz Luhrmann is certainly the hardest-working man when it comes to promoting 'EPiC: Elvis Presley In Concert'  
Australia, where EIN is based, is very lucky to have the first 'EPiC' premieres outside of the festival circuit.  
Gold Coast Australian Premiere: AACTA Festival, Saturday February 7
Sydney Premiere with Baz Luhrmann in attendance: OpenAir Cinema, Sunday February 8
Melbourne Premiere with post film Q&A: IMAX Melbourne, Monday February 9.

The next week finds Baz Luhrmann in West Coast USA promoting the movie, where we can also expect him to be appearing on the usual talk-shows. 

The L.A. Premiere which has flown a little under the radar is at Mann’s Chinese Theater... 
L.A. 'EPiC' Premiere w Baz Luhrmann & Guests IMAX on February 18. (Get tickets here)
if you live closer to Burbank then the following day Baz Luhrmann will be there as well.
AMC Burbank- 'EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert' & Q&A with filmmaker Baz Luhrmann, Feb 19, - Go here for AMC tix

Elvis fans and EPE have to be thankful for Baz Luhrmann 'the hardest-working man in show-promoting business' 
(News, Source;EPiC/EIN) - ... EIN thanks Jim Thomton for the word-up

and decision-making. Songs are shaped with care, phrasing adjusted in real time, and energy conserved or released strategically. This emphasis reframes artistry as something sustained under pressure, not something that emerges effortlessly despite it. The film suggests that greatness at this level requires constant negotiation with expectation."
Later in the book very similar lines repeat... 
- "The film suggests that greatness on this scale is not chaotic; it is engineered, practiced, and sustained through shared discipline."
- "By honoring function over recognition, the film reminds us that greatness— especially on this scale— is never solitary."
and "The film suggests that greatness is not defined by novelty, but by the ability to deliver meaning repeatedly without collapse."
NOTHING AT ALL is revealed about the actual film and it is obvious that the author has not even seen the movie!  

Fans know that the key scenes in the actual movie include...
'How Great Thou Art', Hampton Roads - yet neither the song nor the venue are mentioned anywhere in the book.
Similarly 'Burning Love' nor the "all-new" 'That’s All Right' are mentioned in the book
The exciting 'Closer My God To Thee' (brand new footage) is not mentioned in the book.
Other familiar names and songs not featured in the book are James Burton, Charlie Hodge, Ronnie Tutt, Col Parker, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Hawaii, Greensboro, Jacksonville, the all important MGM rehearsals - even SUSPICIOUS MINDS is not mentioned anywhere in the book.

Amusingly there is a chapter on "Key Songs and Defining Moments" where the ONLY song that is mentioned is 'In The Ghetto' with the almighty revelation, "Songs such as In the Ghetto are framed with restraint, allowing the lyrics and vocal delivery to carry weight without visual distraction."
That is it - no other songs listed AT ALL! 

Hilariously in the list "Complete Cast and Crew Credits" the book notes.
'Elvis Presley is the sole on-screen performer featured in the film'. 
The Complete list of band members and musicians is... 
Elvis Presley’s touring band members 
Backing vocalists
Orchestral musicians
Conductors and musical directors featured in the original performances

The book states its purpose as.. "EPiC moves fast.. This review companion is written for those who want to return to the film with clearer eyes and deeper understanding, without losing the electricity that made the experience so powerful in the first place."
Yet there is no doubt that the "author" has not seen the movie, knows nothing about Elvis nor where any of the remastered footage has come from and like all these recent AI publications it is purely there to deceive fans.
I was ripped off - but purposely so that you would not make the same stupid mistake. 
(Book Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork) 

'Train Dreams' Elvis features in the soundtrack song: The stunningly beautiful recent film 'Train Dreams' is a period drama directed by Clint Bentley. The film stars Joel Edgerton - who has been nominated for various awards - Felicity Jones, Kerry Condon, William H. Macy with impressive narration from Will Patton.  (you can watch it on NETFLIX)
Based on the 2011 novella by Denis Johnson it is about logger Robert Grainier who works in the forests of the Pacific Northwest, helping to create a new world at the turn of the century. His journey goes from 1890 to 1968.
There is little reason to imagine Elvis featuring in the movie but the final credits feature a moving song by Elvis fan Nick Cave and includes Elvis... 
The very first lines are..
... I've seen a grizzly big as a house
Walk across an open plain
Heard of a boy called Elvis something
Whose voice could drive young girls insane...

When asked about his Elvis reference Nick Cave explained.. 
"The Elvis thing is from the book. I just remember this amazing scene where he goes to the town and this train has passed through with this guy on it that all the girls are going mad over. And he doesn’t know who this person is, but it’s Elvis Presley, with this magical voice. 
It’s a beautiful part of the book, and it’s not in the film. So there were some images that came out of the book, and some I made up myself."

The Imperials: Years of Impact 1968-1971 (David L. Taylor): This new 131-page book was released last week and is available in softcover and Kindle editions. Not surprisingly, as one of Elvis’ backing groups, the cover image features the Imperials with Elvis, while the back cover includes 12 album covers, five of which are Elvis releases. 
The author is a retired journalist and full-time author. His new book is a follow up to his 2025 release the 283-page “Jewels in the Crown: Jake Hess and the Imperials 1963-1967”, also with some Elvis content.
- - - - - - Click image for full-size & both front & back covers

The new book is described as:
“Gospel music underwent great changes in the late 1960s with numerous influences from the secular music field becoming prominent in both studio recordings and live performances. Southern Gospel Music was changing from the standard four-part harmony with simple piano accompaniment to sophisticated arrangements and recordings. 
“The Imperials, while continuing to present songs with a clear gospel message, began to introduce vocal arrangements akin to those of numerous secular vocal groups who were at the time topping the popular charts. This era included the rise of praise music, the advent of contemporary Christian music, the California-based Jesus music, and even the start of what would be called Christian rock. Their progressive approach to new musical directions led to backup vocal work with Elvis Presley, Jimmy Dean and Pat Boone. 
“While on the cutting edge of the latest developments in musical styles and recording technology, The Imperials continued to present the Message in the most musically proficient, professional and spiritually-uplifting manner befitting the royalty and majesty of their name while

Colorful sight at Parkes Annual Elvis Festival (2026): EIN just loves the creative and unusual (to say the least) attire of some attendees at the annual Parkes Elvis Festival. 

Perhaps they are heading to a ‘clambake’ with a ‘house that has everything’. 
In any case, we rate it A+ for ingenuity and fun! 

(News, Source: Stan Kluzek, footyalmanac.com.au)

‘Elvis South Bend Indiana - On Tour 1974’ OUT NOW: UK Label ‘Memphis Recording Service’ (MRS) has released their CD Deluxe and 2LP Gatefold titled ‘On Tour 1974 - South Bend Indiana’ .

Near the start of his final tour of 1974, Elvis performed in South Bend Indiana, even throwing in a spontaneous performance of ‘Steamroller Blues’ as a crowd request. 

Revealing the true atmosphere of this October 1st show MRS have remastered and mixed this concert into STEREO for the first time ever. - - -- - -- -- - -- -- -- -- Click for high-res pic. 

The accompanying booklet features rare photographs and memorabilia and also includes liner notes that set the scene.

Previously released by FTD but the show was edited, the MRS version includes the whole show
See 'All The ELVIS CD News' for more details   
Check with your Elvis dealers. OUT NOW
(News, Source;MRS/EIN)

'Almanaque Elvis 2025' New Brazilian Annual: Elvis super-fan Waldenir Cecon in Brazil has announced the release of his latest Elvis annual, following the same format as Kees Mouwen's 'Elvis Day By Day' annuals.
Brazilian author Waldenir Cecon has posted..
"Our annual edition of our Elvis almanac, 'Almanaque Elvis 2025' will be published in February with even more unmissable content for fans. 
In a 19 x 27 cm format and with over 160 pages, the Elvis Almanac 2025 presents a complete overview of everything released worldwide in 2025 related to Elvis Presley. 
Books, LPs, CDs, videos, and general news are gathered in a carefully curated selection, making it easy to keep track of the hundreds of releases that appear every year. 
In addition to the great annual retrospective, the edition features selected special articles, delving into key moments in Elvis's life and career, with information, analysis, and trivia for those who want to learn even more about the King of Rock.

See Elvis-Presley-Brazil website for more info and to order

(Book News, Source;NP/EIN) 

Baz Luhrmann would never have allowed that.
In fact having financed the movie himself Luhrmann took  'EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert' to the Toronto Film Festival without the film having any kind of distribution deal - despite the fact that the footage came from the Warner Brothers vaults!   

With 'EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert' it is great to see such a BLAST of publicity on every major TV station plus news networks such as CNN and major social media  presence.
EPE is lucky to have Baz Luhrmann as their favourite Elvis fan!

Go here for EIN's spotlight on everything 'EPiC' 
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

International Martial Arts Magazine: The January 2026 edition of this publication features the two-page article, “Elvis Presley: The Karate King of Rock & Roll”. 

It is described as: ‘Discover how the King fused music and martial arts, creating a legacy that transcends generations’. 
An earlier edition of the magazine featured the cover article, “The Legacy of Ed Parker Sr. Kenpo Karate 70 Years Later”. 
Ed Parker was a legendary martial arts master, the "Father of American Kenpo," and a very close friend, confidant, and unofficial bodyguard to Elvis for over 17 years, training him in karate, even awarding him black belts, and often traveling with him as a protective companion, as detailed in Parker's book Inside Elvis. 

In remembrance of Lisa Marie Presley, taken from her friends and family way-too-early three years ago, January 12, 2023.

Lisa Marie Presley Has Died: In absolutely shocking news, Lisa Marie Presley only child of Elvis and Priscilla Presley, has died at the age of 54, after suddenly being hospitalised on Thursday January 12, 2023.
Her 77-year-old mother confirmed Presley’s death later that night.
“It is with a heavy heart that I must share the devastating news that my beautiful daughter Lisa Marie has left us
She was the most passionate strong and loving woman I have ever known.
We ask for privacy as we try to deal with this profound loss.
Thank you for the love and prayers.
At this time there will be no further comment.”
Lisa Marie was rushed to hospital from her home in Calabasas, California, following a cardiac arrest.
Priscilla asked fans to keep her daughter in their prayers in a statement issued when the news first broke.

(News, Source;AP/Presley)

Taken from us way too early: Back in 2003 Lisa Marie talked about her life and Elvis with Rolling Stone, 'I go to Graceland and nothing has been touched. It's exactly the same. There was a whole life in that house. It's a beautiful sadness. It's either really painful or it's very comforting- it can go either way. The carpet is the same. My room is exactly the same. Nothing has been touched. Upstairs, which has never been open to the public, is my room and his room, next to each other, and an attic. It's pretty creepy. It's a shrine'
Usually I go up there alone. 'It's very comforting for me, The books, the videos, everything is there still. The Godfather, Citizen Kane, Pink Panther, Bruce Lee - all of his videos are still there. All of his records'.
'In my eyes Elvis was, to me, so overwhelmingly grand and powerful - and sometimes dark, depending on mood. And there was that for the first nine years of my life. Maybe I have been in search of something like that.
It's very hard to compete with that in my mind. That's what he was to me as a child, this huge, electrifyingly powerful, grand, beautiful presence."

Lisa Marie was her father's daughter, similarly a powerful, grand and beautiful presence.
And a beautiful soul all too sadly taken from us way too early.

Priscilla Wishes Elvis Happy Birthday: Another person wishing Elvis Happy Birthday was his ex-wife.
Priscilla, now 80 years-old, shared this photo on Instagram, writing

 
“It’s hard to believe you would be 91 today—surely just as handsome as ever. 
No one could ever truly understand the depth of what we shared. 
Our love never faded, even through the difficult times. 

Each year, I celebrate your birthday quietly in my heart, knowing you are surrounded by the family you loved so deeply.

Happy Birthday, Elvis - P”

Priscilla did not attend the Graceland Birthday celebrations, nor has she been present at the recent 'Elvis Weeks' in August

(News, Source;Insta/EIN)

“Unchained Melody” new book by Larry Geller: Elvis' spiritual confidante and hair stylist, Larry Geller has written a new book. 
He tells EIN that when it comes out it will be available from Amazon sites, Google Books, Apple Books and on other major platforms.

There will also be an audiobook where Larry will be narrating, with "Elvis" (narrated) also featuring in many conversations and venues over the years. 

Geller notes that the publication will be a few weeks away.
Geller's new website as mentioned elsewhere www.larrygeller.com is not yet up and running.
Larry has promised EIN more info very soon. 

For more on Larry Geller and his friendship with please check out our EIN interviews.

Larry Geller talks to EIN 2019
Larry Geller interview 2007
Larry Geller interview with EIN - Elvis in The Sixties and The Seventies

(News, Source;LG/EIN) 

'Wearin’ That Night Life Look' Preview: Fans who know their Elvis collections should be rather interested in the new track on the 'EPiC' official soundtrack album called 'Wearin’ That Night Life Look' by Elvis & Jamieson Shaw.
It sounds like a cool Mash-Up of Elvis' 1969 'Wearin' That Loved on Look' and 1963's 'Night Life' - and it is! 

In fact it also features 'Wearin’ That Loved On Look' / 'Night Life' / 'I, John' and 'Let Yourself Go' to hopefully “create an entirely new track from Elvis DNA,” as envisioned by Luhrmann and 'EPiC' music producer Jamieson Shaw.

Go HERE to various streaming platforms for a free Preview

(News, Source;RCA/EIN)

Two New Graceland Exhibits: Graceland celebrates Elvis’ Birthday with two new exhibits, 'Elvis 1956' and 'EPIC: Elvis Presley in Concert' now open at Elvis Presley’s Memphis. 

'EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert' exhibit is inspired by Baz Luhrmann’s new film. 
The exhibit showcases stagewear, jewelry, guitars, movie posters, and rare performance memorabilia, including several pieces never before displayed.
Featured items include:
-  Concho Jumpsuit worn by Elvis; also the first suit seen in EPIC: Elvis Presley in Concert
- Red Outfit worn by Elvis during rehearsals for his Las Vegas shows
- TCB Sunglasses made by Optique Boutique in California

'Elvis 1956' exhibit explores the landmark year that took Elvis Presley from hometown sensation to a global superstar. 
At age 21, Elvis recorded iconic hits like “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Hound Dog,” “Don’t Be Cruel,” and “Blue Suede Shoes,” made historic television appearances, filmed his first movie, Love Me Tender, and participated in the legendary “Million Dollar Quartet” session at Sun Studio.
Artifacts on display include:
- Key to the City of Tupelo presented to Elvis during his homecoming show in September 1956
- White stage shoes worn by Elvis in Tupelo and many other early concert appearances
- Large display of 1956 Elvis memorabilia including fan-made skirt, buttons, lipstick, and RCA record player
- Elvis’ First TV Guide cover from September 1956

Both exhibits are now open - Go here to Graceland for more info and tickets 
(News, Source;EPE/EIN)

Watch the 2026 Proclamation Ceremony: It's somebody's Birthday!

The special ceremony starts at 8:30am CT/14:30 UTC January 8. Join us as we celebrate the King of Rock 'n' Roll's birthday live from Graceland Mansion's north lawn with a ceremony featuring a birthday cake cutting and a proclamation of Elvis Presley Day by Memphis and Shelby County officials.

Fans who are unable to attend can watch the Ceremony REPLAY online for free via Vimeo here
(News, Source;EPE/Elvisinfonet)

Elvis' Birthday Celebrations START Tomorrow: Celebrate Elvis' birthday in Memphis, January 7–11, with concerts, conversations, and more!  Highlights include...
Jan 8 - 'Elvis Birthday Proclamation Ceremony' - Graceland Mansion. Free to attend.
- An exclusive sneak-peek of Baz Luhrmann’s EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert, just for fans celebrating Elvis’ birthday in Memphis! 
- 'Elvis 1956' Concert 
1956 was a landmark year for Elvis, it was the year he became a superstar and the lightning rod for the controversy of early rock 'n' roll.  Appearances by Jerry Schilling, Billy Blackwood & The Blackwood Brothers Quartet, and Ultimate winner Emilio Santoro. 
- 'The Jungle Room Sessions'
Celebrate the 50th anniv of Elvis’ iconic 1976 recording sessions at Graceland with an intimate evening of music. This special tribute honors the soulful sounds captured in the legendary Jungle Room. 
- 'Conversations On Elvis'
Hosted by Tom Brown, guests include Jerry Schilling, TCB's Jerry Scheff, Elvis’ Imperials Terry Blackwood and Jim Murray, Larry Strickland, and Tony Brown (TCB pianist) plus Jonathan Redmond, editor of 'EPiC' to take you behind-the-scenes.

Matt Shepherd's 'The Fabulous 50s': Starting this month 'Matt Shepherd's Golden Years' includes a new feature "Elvis 56 style" where throughout the year, in each show, he will be playing an Elvis song from that break out year of 1956 and telling the story behind the track.
On Golden Years 217 - "The Fabulous 50s" provides the soundtrack for the show featuring Eddie Cochran, The Drifters, Gene Vincent and many more. 
Plus he continues the new series "Elvis 56 Style" with Presley's take on a Ray Charles classic. 
Starting with Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry and Gene Vincent  don't miss out on some great Rock'n'Roll 
Go here to MixCloud for the joy of 'Golden Years 217'

and don't miss out on Golden Years 216 Matt's first show of 2026 with "Elvis 56 style" Part One! 
(News, Source;MattShepherd/EIN)

Elvis Christmas Charts: Usually the Christmas season is a great time for Elvis to make a higher than usual appearance in the US & UK Charts but this year our hero didn't make the usual impact.
Perhaps the after-effect of the 'ELVIS' movie has faded.
Let's hope that the power of 'EPiC' increases Elvis impact in 2026

On the Billboard 'Hot 100' singles..
1. All I Want For Christmas Is You - Mariah Carey    
2. Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree  - Brenda Lee 
3. Jingle Bell Rock - Bobby Helms    
4. Last Christmas - Wham!
While Elvis only managed...  
21. Blue Christmas - Elvis Presley    
Notably charting above Elvis was Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, Perry Como, Andy Williams, Dean Martin even Burl Ives.. 

On the Billboard 'Global 200' chart 
'Blue Christmas' was at #29 
On the Billboard Album Chart
Elvis' The Classic Christmas Album was at #22 up from #43 last week.

Meanwhile in the UK Official charts
In the UK Singles Chart 'Blue Christmas' was at #43 last week but disappointingly dropped out of the charts this week
On the UK Top 100 Album charts
'ELV1S - 30 #1 Hits' is up to #62 after the Christmas week but sadly no sign of any Elvis Christmas compilation... 

On the UK Streaming Album chart
'ELV1S - 30 #1 Hits' is up to #48
'The Classic Christmas Album' reached #93 but then quickly  dropped out.
This year it didn't even make the UK main album charts.

With far too many "average" Christmas compilations charting above Elvis it was all in all a rather lacklustre showing this year

(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

'EPiC: Elvis in Concert' Australian Feb 19 release in all cinemas: More good news for Australian Elvis Presley fans, Baz Luhrmann's 'EPiC: ELVIS PRESLEY IN CONCERT' has a 'regular' cinema release date of February 19 2026, a week earlier than the rest of the world.

Meanwhile the Australian IMAX theater release is still February 20, 2026 - one day later.

“Elvis Presley like never before. Featuring long-lost footage discovered by Academy Award-nominated Baz Luhrmann, EPiC: ELVIS PRESLEY IN CONCERT is a one-of-a-kind cinematic experience.”

Aussie Elvis fans check here for IMAX notifications - bookings not yet on-line
For regular cinema 'EPiC' bookings check Hoyts or Palace Cinemas or your local independent cinema for Australian Feb 19 showings

(News, Source;NP/ElvisInfoNet)

Book Review- “Elvis Presley’s Gold Cadillac Limousine - The USA, Australian & New Zealand Tours” (Peter R. “Bob” Hayden): Australia’s most prolific Elvis book author, Bob Hayden, has released a “deluxe”, expanded edition of his critically acclaimed, and retitled, publication about (principally) the tour "downunder" of Elvis' Gold Cadillac limousine!

Including information on how the tour “downunder” was arranged, the author offers a “day-by-day” account of each town or city the Cadillac was on display around Australia. Promotion for the tour included significant media publicity and competitions in many areas to select “Elvis Presley’s Golden Girls”! It was a fascinating era for "Elvis" tours!

EIN’s Nigel Patterson has taken a ride in the golden chariot’s 3rd edition and was more than impressed with its performance improvements.

Read Nigel’s Updated review

(Book Review, Source:ElvisInformationNetwork)

'Blue Moon / Good Rockin' Tonight' OUT NOW: The new RDM CD / Vinyl release from producer Anthony Stuchbury - a unique "mash-up" of Elvis singing 'Blue Moon' backed by Ricky Nelson & the Jordanaires - is OUT NOW and selling FAST!
Two iconic early Sun-era tracks in brand-new restored and enhanced versions:
Blue Moon (2025 Remix) – rich and deeper in sound than ever
Good Rockin' Tonight (Improved Mono II Stereo Mix) – an impressive mix that respects the original Sun sound but with  modern punch and detail.
Go HERE to RDM to order the tantalising clear vinyl version and the CD - or both!
There is also an exclusive alternate version available at ‘Bennies 50’s Store’ in The Netherlands.  Their 45 is on pink vinyl and their CD will contain a bonus track of ‘Blue Moon’ which is an a cappella version.
‘Good Rockin’ Tonight’ is the superior new stereo Re-Master as previewed at Memphis Mansion back at the beginning of October. 

See RDM website for their unique Elvis product
(News, Source;AS/EIN) 

FTD's 'Good Times -The Outtakes' Vinyl Re-Release is also OUT NOW: Back in 2010 the FTD label released their double LP 'Good Times - The Outtakes' in a rather attractive presentation.
This re-release is a 'Limited Number Edition' of 3,500 copies this time on 'Ocean Blue' coloured vinyl.
This follows a trend seen with the best-selling "Gold Sparkle" 'Moody Blue' FTD re-release  

This time FTD have used a 1972 sleeve-photo of Elvis inspired by the cover of the original 45rpm 'I've Got A Thing About You, Baby'. The tracklist is the same 

This double-vinyl has been delayed twice due to printing errors but should now be at your local Elvis dealer.

See 'Elvis FTD SONY News 2025' for all the details 
(News, Source;FTD/EIN) 

'EPiC: Elvis Presley In Concert'  February 27 Worldwide Release: Neon / Universal Pictures have set the global release date for Baz Luhrmann’s "EPiC: Elvis Presley In Concert"
There will be a One-Week EXCLUSIVE IMAX® engagement starting February 20.
The regular movie will open in Theaters World-Wide on February 27.
The one-week exclusive IMAX release on Feb 20, 2026, will allow audiences around the world to immerse themselves in a one-of-a-kind cinematic experience, hearing Elvis perform and tell his story like never before, with the unmatched power of IMAX.
Following the one-week engagement 'EPiC' will hit theaters everywhere on February 27.
The film debuted to critical acclaim and a standing ovation at the Toronto International Film Festival. Vogue hailed the movie as “a burst of concert-film adrenaline,” while Variety described it as “One of the Most Exciting Concert Films You’ve Ever Seen.” EPiC features long-lost footage and treasured 8mm film from the Graceland archive, letting Elvis tell ‘his side of the story,’.
With EPiC, Luhrmann transforms unearthed archival material into an electrifying cinematic odyssey that captures Elvis at his best; raw, human, eccentrically humorous, intimate and electric.

Graceland will host the first advanced U.S. screenings of 'EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert' on Thursday, January 8, 2026 Elvis' birthday.
The Australian Premiere is 7 February 2026 at the ​2026 AACTA festival (Australian Oscars) on the Gold Coast.  
(News, Source;Various/EIN)

The '68 Special - the Anniversary Celebration: How lucky in life would you be to get to the original recording of Elvis' 68 TV Special and also make it to the recent 40th Anniversary screening in L.A? EIN's correspondent Joan Gansky is one of those few very fortunate fans. Joan Gansky not only met Elvis multiple times - but being at the original NBC recording of the 68 Special truly changed her life! Here are her unique recollections of attending the 40th Anniversary celebration - as well as her thoughts on being there back in June 1968.

This EIN exclusive features comments by Steve Binder, Priscilla, Bones Howe as well as great close-up photos by Paul Gansky.

Click here for EIN's 2008 full article.

(Spotlight, Source;EIN/JoanGansky)

'Elvis: Day By Day 2017' Book Review:  From author Kees Mouwen the recent 'Elvis Day-By-Day' publication that looks back at 'Elvis: 2017 The Year In Review'.
The year 2017 marked four decades since Elvis' death. Yet his music still topped charts worldwide, and he earned over a dozen new Gold and Platinum awards. Proof that Elvis "never left the building."
This yearbook preserves all the day-by-day information about every relevant Elvis release, event and milestone from 2017. It includes 55 in-depth reviews by Elvis writers, experts and fans add thoughtful insights from a 2017 perspective. 
Highlights are ‘Elvis At 40: Still Relevant Today’ an 18-page examination of Elvis’ legacy in 2017, the detailed look at all the vinyl releases, all the deluxe book publications as well as Kees’ personal review of attending ‘Elvis Live In Rotterdam’ along with an 8-page review of the ‘Elvis On Tour’ exhibition in London.

Over the 480 pages there is so much to discuss, lots to debate and always stunning images. Plus some delicious negative reviews..
EIN's Piers Beagley checks out this 2017 'Elvis Annual' and finds that there is plenty to read and lots for collectors to discuss
(Book Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

‘Elvis South Bend Indiana - On Tour 1974’ New MRS: UK Label ‘Memphis Recording Service’ (MRS) will release a CD Deluxe and 2LP Gatefold titled ‘On Tour 1974 - South Bend Indiana’ in January 2026.

Near the start of his final tour of 1974, Elvis performed in South Bend Indiana for two nights starting on 30 September. Elvis was in better health and humour for the second concert, presented here, even throwing in a spontaneous performance of ‘Steamroller Blues’ as a crowd request. 

Revealing the true atmosphere of this October 1st show MRS have remastered and mixed this concert into STEREO for the first time ever. 
Click for high-res pic. 

The accompanying booklet features rare photographs and memorabilia from the event and also includes liner notes that set the scene.

The 2LP set and will be available in both Black and Clear vinyl.
Please note, the clear vinyl is ONLY available from exclusive Elvis dealers and fan clubs and NOT thru mainstream public stores. 

Click for high-res pic - the vinyl LP cover is again a stunner!

EIN Notes: There is no doubt that Elvis' fourth tour of 1974 was one of the low points of his career. His opening show in College Park (Sept 27) is often noted as being one of Elvis' worst concerts of all time! 
However by the fifth concert of the tour Elvis was in a very different state of mind from the previous shows.
Elvis is actually in an unusual mischievous mood, laughing and teasing the crowd. He doesn't ramble on as he did in the previous Las Vegas season and is having some fun. He even jokes about the previous night's review. The edited concert was previously released by FTD on 'Dragonheart' back in 2003.

See 'All The CD News 2025' for tracklist, details
(News, Source;MRS/EIN)

CLICK HERE- PART 4: This final part 'August - December 1971' features more insights into Elvis' post 'TTWII' year including his first season at Lake Tahoe...
.. RCA released 'It's Only Love' and 'The Other Sides Gold Awards' box set. A good excuse for 'The Next Step Is Love' unreleased TTWII video plus a crazy 'It's Only Love' clip.
At the Vegas summer season Elvis was singing Perry Como's 'It's Impossible' - I had forgotten this since there are no soundboards available.
Elvis was also faced t-r-o-u-b-l-e with the paternity suit.
Author Jerry Hopkins is interviewed about his new Elvis biography.
Wink Martindale talks about the 'Elvis Presley radio show'
There are also interviews with Jerry Lee Lewis , Al Dvorin, Terry Blackwood, Bill Baize, Sammy Davis Jnr, Ed Enoch, Lisa Marie and Priscilla.
Elvis' November 1971 tour is a real highlight with some excellent photos as well as some rare fan-footage. Great to see 'Lawdy Miss Clawdy' from Houston Nov 12.
The film ends Christmas 1971 with Elvis telling his buddies that Priscilla had left him.
How much more can you ask for??!!

Go to Vimeo to watch PART 4 - runs 1 hour 10 mins
- EIN Highly Recommended - 
(News, Source;DLaverty/ElvisInfoNet)

ELVIS #7 Highest Paid Dead Celebrity 2025: Forbes annual list of the highest earning deceased celebrities for 2025 has been released - and without even leaving his secret hideaway ELVIS is at seventh place!
Culture critic Chuck Klosterman noted “Dying is the only thing that guarantees a rock star will have a legacy that stretches beyond temporary relevance.”
In 2025 the top ten is similar to previous years with music legends Michael Jackson, Elvis Presley, Jimmy Buffett, Bob Marley, John Lennon now with Miles Davis and The Notorious B.I.G. all in the Top Ten.
Joining them this year are the two late co-founders of Pink Floyd, Richard Wright, Syd Barrett who sold off their share of the catalogue getting $81 Million each.
Dr. Seuss is back at #2 earning a cool $85 Million.
Music catalog income and estate deals on 'name, image and likeness' remain the top income generators for deceased recording artists.
Jackson's estate still earns masses staying at #1 with $105 Million (but down from last year's $600 million)
And with income lower due to previous year's ELVIS movie box-office, this year Elvis earned only $17 Million - down from $50 million - and only coming in seventh!
Forbes posted "$17 Million, Elvis Presley. 
Last summer, a bizarre identity theft plot threatened to sell Elvis’ Graceland estate in Memphis to the highest bidder, but was snuffed out in time for the property to remain fully owned by Presley's estate, now controlled by his granddaughter, actress Riley Keough. The family owns just 15% of Elvis Presley Enterprises

TOP TEN 2024
1. Michael Jackson $105 Million
2. Dr. Seuss $85 Million
3&4. Pink Floyd's - Richard Wright $81 Million, #4. Syd Barrett  $81 Million
5. The Notorious B.I.G $80 Million
6. Miles Davis $21 Million
7. Elvis Presley $17 Million
8. Jimmy Buffett  $14 Million
9. Bob Marley $13 Million
10. John Lennon $12 Million

In the past 25 years Elvis has earned a total of $1.2 Billion! 
So while ELVIS may have "left the building" he is still an economic powerhouse this year generating $17 million in income 48 years after his death.

'The Sun Singles of Elvis': In-depth Book Review: Elvis specialist Warren Schubert has published his new book via Memphis Mansion - 'The Sun Singles of Elvis – An Illustrated Guide'.
... The publicity noted
This book reveals all the secrets behind Elvis’ most iconic records: the legendary five Sun singles! 
How many variations of Elvis’ legendary Sun 209 actually exist?
It includes hundreds of high-resolution photographs showing all known variations and expert analysis that separates myth from fact.

If Elvis hadn't walked into the Memphis Recording Service in mid-1953 our world might be very different today. It was his crucial SUN singles that would not only be the bedrock of his stunning legacy but the music on those fragile pieces of shellac would also go on to change the history of rock'n'roll and popular culture. 

EIN's Piers Beagley spent a weekend enthralled in this beautifully presented book and found that there is far more to discover than just the examination of each variation of Elvis' SUN singles.
We guarantee it will make you want to spin your old vinyl! 
(Book Review, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork) 

Paul Dowling ‘Worldwide Elvis RCA Vinyl Discography' Book: Today Paul Dowling celebrates 51 Years in the Elvis business! 
The publication of his massive 'Worldwide Elvis RCA Vinyl Discography' was announced around 5 years ago, even though Dowling notes he has been working on it for decades.
Back in 2016 Dowling told EIN, "It was 1992 when Bernadette Moore (in charge of the BMG Archives, New York) invited me to come up there and do research for my huge Worldwide Discography book which is now around 4000 pages but of course it still hasn't come out as I have found tons and tons of new information and continue to do so daily.
Bernadette gave me total access to any and all files they had on Elvis' vinyl and I found many that even people up there never knew they still had. I came home with over 3000 photocopies of listing notices, production cards, pre production cards, inner office cards, and more.." 
Good news as today Dowling posted..
COMING EARLY 2026! A five volume (or more!) series of WORLDWIDE ELVIS RCA vinyl discography books which will include information, including photos, of all label and covers of every 78, single, EP, LP, and promos that were ever issued on RCA in 63 countries! 

Note: The book cover shown is not the final version. 
(News, Source;WWE/EIN)

CD Review 'King Creole: Original Soundtrack' in Stereo: RDM released their 'King Creole- original soundtrack' Mono II Stereo CD set and 10” vinyl in September 2025. 

Remixed and sequenced by producer Anthony Stuchbury, it includes movie versions of five songs which haven’t officially been available elsewhere.
It was produced in collaboration with David Parker and RDM-Edition. 
"The fans asked for this, and we listened. Now you know what ‘we’ do for an encore."

EIN's Piers Beagley checks out the new 16-track CD set and discovers that the new 'Stereo' versions reveal some previously missed excitements...  

(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork) 

Ernst Jorgensen Talks about 'EPiC': From our friends at Elvis Day-By-Day and interesting discussion about Baz Luhrmann's new film.
.. "During the 'Elvis Presley Weekend' at Memphis Mansion in Denmark, RCA's Ernst Jorgensen did a surprise appearance and talked about the new 'EPiC Elvis Presley in Concert' movie, followed by a short Q&A with the audience, "Ernst tells the story like never before".
Thanks to Anthony Stuchbury.

- Jorgensen explains the "biggest thrill" of 'EPiC'
- Do FTD have audio from Las Vegas August 14 1970 performance?

EIN's "mini review" of Priscilla Presley's new memoir, "Softly, As I Leave You….Life After Elvis": Following its official release the hardcover edition of Priscilla’s new book has risen to #48 on Amazon's "Top 100 in Books" list and is highly ranked (top 3) in various Amazon genre lists. On September 25 it was #2 on Amazon's "Best Sellers in Actor & Entertainer Biographies" list, held from the top spot by Charlie Sheen's "The Book of Sheen".

Not surprisingly, the book includes a lot of information not in Priscilla's original 1985 memoir, "Elvis and Me". 
This includes her post 1985 film and TV career, her son Navarone, both the Baz Luhrmann film, "ELVIS", and the Sophia Coppola film, "Priscilla", Lisa Marie inheriting "Graceland", Lisa Marie's marriages, and poignant accounts of the deaths of Lisa Marie and her son Benjamin.
The narrative flows between highs and lows and fun and heartache.

The book contains a significant amount of content about Lisa Marie and about Navarone (it is obvious how close Priscilla is to her son)! 
While Priscilla spent 22 years in a relationship with Marco Garibaldi (father of Navarone), you wouldn't know it reading this memoir. Marco is barely mentioned.
Priscilla doesn't hold back on her view that "Michael (Jackson) was a manipulative man".

Other accounts involve a "scary" Church of Scientology, the always impressive Leslie Nielsen, and (at one point) a "naked" Michael Edwards - the controversial Edwards and Lisa Marie issue is also addressed. 

Priscilla's references to "Riley and her husband" come across (to EIN anyway) as impersonal and there is no discussion of the legal case involving Priscilla and Riley. These, together with the "absence" of Marco Garibaldi, unbalance the narrative.

Various chapter titles, taken from both the Elvis Presley and Lisa Marie Presley songbooks, reflect themes in the book, including "Separate Ways", "Suspicious Minds", "Don't Be Cruel", "Memories", "Storm and Grace" and "Lights Out" (this chapter being about Lisa Marie's passing).

The book is an easy and entertaining (at times sad) read but nothing in it is likely to assuage the views of those with a dislike for Priscilla Presley. 
It also features many rare "family" photographs. 

(Book Review, Source:NP/ElvisInformationNetwork)

'EPiC' IMAX brings Elvis back to life: A neat summary of seeing Baz Luhrmann's 'EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert' in big screen IMAX. ...
Danielle Solzman's review included...
.. Think you’ve seen every angle of Elvis Presley on screen? Think again. Unearthing rare, previously unseen footage, Luhrmann spent two years remastering and restoring the material for a fresh cinematic experience. 
Larger than life on IMAX the result is a dazzling return of Elvis to the big screen, presented as never before, blending intimate moments with iconic performances.
IMAX is how the film should be seen. The only drawback? You can’t get up and dance or sing along!
But the energy of the music fills the theater, and there’s nothing quite like experiencing Elvis Presley on the big screen in this immersive way.
I was there purely for the musical experience, and my God, it delivers. 
The film transforms archival footage into a living, breathing tribute, combining classic hits with rare and previously unseen performances. 
'Get Back's Peter Jackson’s influence on restoration and post-production work is evident as Park Road Post Production meticulously cleaned and restored 8mm, 16mm, and 35mm footage, bringing archival material to life in unprecedented clarity.
Key sequences come from six nights of Elvis’s TTWII 1970 Las Vegas residency, alongside material from his 1972 summer tour. 
Together, these performances capture Elvis at the peak of his career, as well as during a period of reinvention following the 1968 Comeback Special. 
But 'EPiC' goes beyond just concerts: previously unheard audio of Elvis discussing his life and music is woven throughout the film, creating a dreamscape presentation.

And bringing 'EPiC' to the screen was not just a matter of cleaning film. The team also uncovered numerous 16-track audio recordings, which had to be meticulously synced to match the visuals. This involved lip-reading and assistance from Warner Bros. 

Everything was edited under the steady hand of Baz Luhrmann’s longtime collaborator, Jonathan Redmond. 
The result is a seamless fusion of image and sound, where every note, every gesture, and every glance of Elvis is amplified for the big screen.

Musically it is a feast. Over 70 songs appear in the film, spanning Vegas shows, tours, rehearsals, and classic recordings.
EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert is less about biography and more about the music, the performance, and the magic of Elvis Presley. Every restored frame, every note, every cover feels like a gift to fans old and new. 

It’s a celebration of the King’s artistry, captured in a way that only IMAX can fully deliver - and it’s nothing short of spectacular. 

If you are in a position to see this on the big screen, you will not regret it.
- - - (go here to 'solzyatthemovies' for the full review.
(News, Source;DS/ElvisInfoNet)

Baz Luhrmann recently posted..

.."Thank you Toronto for the love and support for EPiC 🥹🧡
The demand for tickets so far has been incredible, 4 sold out screenings! 
Because of you, the TIFF fans, TIFF has added an additional IMAX screening… EPiC will be back bringing Elvis to the big screen once again!"

go here to Zurich Film Festival for 'EPiC' details and showings

(News, Source;BL/EIN)

“Iconic Albums” series of books about Elvis’ albums: Author Richard Ward has published a more than 140 books (90-130 pages) examining popular album releases. His series includes (to date) six volumes about Elvis albums. 

EIN’s Nigel Patterson offers a mini-review, including addressing the issue of possible AI, based on one of the Elvis volumes, about his debut album, Elvis Presley. 

... In March 1956, the world met a voice, a style, and a swagger that would change everything. Elvis Presley, the debut album, was more than just a collection of songs — it was the birth of modern rock'n' roll.

Read Nigel’s review 

(Book Review, Source: EIN)

the NBC Studios from the summer of 1968 with four key actors playing multiple roles. 
In a separate room, the road from Tupelo to Memphis with all the musical and cultural influences that were burned into Presley’s DNA is well told by a lively cast, in an expansive train carriage setting that’s slightly too long. 

An intermission in a Blue Hawaii-themed cocktail bar merely fuels expectation for the big show (Colonel Tom Parker would surely have approved).
In the initial publicity there was a suggestion that fans might have to wear 'VR' headsets for parts of the event, but this isn't the case.

When the audience is finally led into the recreated NBC studio, no-one knows what to expect. Yes, there is little in the way of discernible AI, bar a brief dressing room sequence, where we see a leather-suited AI Elvis attempting pre-show nerves via a mirror. 

The hologram idea was apparently ditched long ago (perhaps the cost was too great, the estate got cold feet, or more-likely the company couldn't deliver on-time). 

But when the multi-screen, live-band experience kicks in (familiar to anyone who has experienced the Elvis in Concert shows) the effect is palpable.
It is possible that the video is 'newly enhanced' but then again the 2018 cinema upgrade also had a stunning impact.  

Elvis rocks the house in black leather on a myriad of screens, rattling through his '50s hits with Scotty Moore's electric in his hands.

This stunning segment lasts around 30-40 minutes with a mix of 'Sit-down' and also 'Stand-up' performances  (eg Blue Suede Shoes, with Jailhouse Rock as the encore)

The pre-encore finale of 'If I Can Dream' is as hauntingly powerful as ever.

The main show ends with Elvis doing the 'Thank You, Goodnight' mic drop and on opening night the crowd loved it. 

And so did I! 'If I Can Dream' especially - being so all-encompassing and powerful - Wow.

Could they have ramped up the use of AI? Of course, although I am relieved they didn't.

(Book Review) 'Elvis: April - May 1958': The new Elvis "day-by-day" photo-journal release from Paul Belard, "Elvis April-May 1958 " is out now.
Over 208 pages, and with more than 200 photos, the book looks at Elvis' first two months in the army
These two months would have been the most traumatising for Elvis. None of us can imagine his real feelings as Elvis went from being the world’s biggest entertainer to becoming a regular soldier doing group exercises, sit-ups, marching, shoe cleaning, ‘K.P’ and all the time not knowing what the next two years would bring.
While Elvis would spend these months doing basic training, it would be his interactions with his army mates and the general public that help enrich our knowledge of the kind of person Elvis really was.
With plenty of books presenting the wild-side of Elvis the superstar-performer in 1957, in 'April - May 1958' it's revealing to see more of the "real Elvis."

Go here as Piers Beagley checks out this interesting look at an often ignored part of Elvis' life.
(Book Review, Source:ElvisInformationNetwork)

Spotlight "What You Don't Know About ELVIS PRESLEY" Movie Mirror Feb 1957: Another brilliant vintage article, this time from 'Movie Mirror' magazine February 1957.
Written by Alfred Wertheimer - the photographer - "Untold Facts about ELVIS PRESLEY by a Friend."

.. "Why do the girls go for Elvis? I'm no judge of that, of course! But I'd guess it's because he has very sensuous eyes and lips.
Elvis doesn't care what people think. And he's not bashful. He'll walk up and talk to anybody.
Elvis is completely unorthodox, and unpredictable. As he puts it, "If you wanta’ get ahead, you gotta be different!" And he means it.
With other performers, you can predict pretty well what the act is going to be when they step on a stage. Not with Elvis."

The 6th in an EIN series looking at early magazine articles about Elvis Presley - this time with some great 1956 images..
Go here to this fascinating article and discover more ....
(EIN Spotlight by Piers Beagley / Paul Gansky)

(Book Review) Elvis Presley: Walk A Mile In My Shoes (Otto Fuchs): EIN’s Nigel Patterson takes a look inside a 2023 book that slipped through the cracks and therefore the consciousness of most in the Elvis world.

The publicity notes... Elvis died on August 16th, 1977, at the age of just 42, in his Graceland mansion. His death marked something significant in the collective mind, like the assassinations of John F. Kennedy, Robert Kennedy, or Martin Luther King.
Conspiracy theories took off about the circumstances surrounding his death: Was Elvis murdered by the mob? Was his death faked? Did Elvis commit suicide? Is he still alive? This book sheds new light on many of these questions, while also celebrating his music and legacy.

Read Nigel’s review of a book that is different from most others

(Book Review, Source:ElvisInformationNetwork)

The Lisa Marie – The King’s Flying Graceland (Carlos Varrenti): The latest book from aviation expert and longtime Elvis fan, Carlos Varrenti, is now available from Amazon stores.
The author commented on his new book:
“In the world of music, few names resonate as profoundly as Elvis Presley's. While "The King of Rock 'n' Roll" is celebrated for his legendary music and iconic performances, there exists another dimension to his life that has long captivated me: his enduring romance with the skies.
“In my previous editions of "The Airplanes & The King," I embarked on a journey to explore Elvis's remarkable aviation adventures. I delved into the aircraft he chartered, purchased, and occasionally flew, providing a glimpse into his fearless exploration of the world of flight. Yet, with each passing edition, I couldn't help but feel that there was a significant piece of the puzzle left unexamined as deserved—the centerpiece of Elvis's aeronautical legacy: The Lisa Marie.”

The 550-page hardback is filled with fascinating information, photos, flight plans, Lisa Marie plane technical details, Lisa Marie airplane memorabilia, and stories by those who flew the plane ("Anyone for a sandwich?") and those who flew on it with Elvis.
The author, whose university degree is in Aeronautical Engineering, previously released the acclaimed book, 'Elvis Presley The Airplanes & The King'.
-- Read EIN’s recent interview with Carlos Varrenti  
(News, Source: Carlos Varrenti; EIN)

Book Review - 'Marion Keisker: The Woman Who First Recorded Elvis Presley': Paul Belard's latest book is a detailed account of Marion Keisker's life and her key role in the Elvis story.
"That woman was the one who had faith she was the one that pushed me... Marion did it for me" - Elvis Presley 1971
.. Marion was Sam Phillips' assistant when he established the Memphis Recording Service, and later Sun Records.
She is best remembered as the first person to record Elvis in July 1953, then encouraging Sam Phillips (numerous times) to record him "commercially", therefore playing a pivotal role in Elvis' ascent towards the pinnacle of his career.
Throughout interviews given, Marion discloses the workings of Sun Records, the sessions, Elvis' moods during those first days of his career. There is a trove of little known or unknown anecdotes many fans will delight in.
This book is a fitting and well-deserved tribute to Marion Keisker.'

Packed full of great stories, rare photos and Marion's personal recollections this is a book that any Elvis fan should enjoy.
EIN's Piers Beagley spent some quality time enjoying this very fine tribute to one of the key inspirations behind the Elvis legacy...

(Book Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

(Book Review) 'Elvis UK Compact Volume 1 - The Ultimate Guide to Elvis Presley's British CDs 1983-2005' (John Townson & Gordon Minto): In 2021, the Elvis UK dynamic duo released the voluminous 1,400 page 'Elvis UK 3 The Ultimate Guide to Elvis Presley's British CDs 1983-2005 in digital "flipbook" format.
In 2025, we have the first of three "physical" volumes presenting the contents of the "flipbook".

'Elvis UK3' is an outstanding reference e-book, there is however a keen section of Elvis collectors who prefer to own physical books as opposed to digital versions.
While the original 1,400 page book was too large to print as a single volume, the author’s idea of splitting it into three volumes is a very clever idea.
Leafing through these 478 printed pages of 'Compact Volume 1' gave us another reason to dig deep into Elvis’ CD legacy and enjoying the fascination of some stunning Elvis releases.

Go here as EIN's Nigel Patterson explores this information-packed glorious new printed book.

(Book Review, Source: ElvisInformationNetwork)

More praise for 'Elvis Hero of the Comic Books': Written by EIN’s Nigel Patterson (with “over and above” help from Elvis Day By Day’s, Kees Mouwen) the first in-depth record of Elvis in comic books, graphic novels and cartoons, was published earlier this year.

Reviews have been glowing since day one, the latest including a four-page text and image overview in It’s Elvis Time magazine (Netherlands) and a detailed review in the cult rock & roll magazine, Ugly Things (based in California).

Go here to read what both reviewers had to say - as well checking out as some more cool images from the book..

“WOW! BOOM! POW!”

(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

Elvis in Literature #5 "Rock and roll - an introduction - was Elvis really the king of rock and roll?" (Michael Campbell and James Brody): Continuing our irregular series of how Elvis is discussed in various publications, in this book two professors of music contend that an analysis of Elvis' Sun and early RCA recordings does not support the commonly accepted claim that Elvis was / is the King of Rock and Roll.

Read excerpts from their argument - in our special EIN spotlight series - 'Elvis in Literature #5'

Nigel Patterson investigates..

(Spotlight/Opinion, Source: Rock and roll - an introduction)

(Book Review) Elvis, Hero of the Comic Books (Nigel Patterson): Respected Elvis author and reviewer, Gordon Minto, recently put on his reviewer’s cap to take on what he rightly describes as “a strange landscape” of how Elvis is portrayed in comic books (aka sequential art), a subject, which until now, has not been well covered or understood.

The book in question, Elvis, Hero of the Comic Books, was written by EIN’s Nigel Patterson and sublimely designed by Elvis Day By Day’s, Kees Mouwen.  

The book includes stunning artwork from a number of releases and an eclectic variety of Elvis related comic book ephemera.  Elvis, Hero of the Comic Books features more than 600 images!

Read Gordon’s detailed review to discover why he found the book to be “refreshingly different, extremely eye-catching, well-researched and well-written, while offering a new slant on things”.   

(Book Review, Source: Gordon Minto;ElvisInfoNet)

'Elvis in Print: A Comprehensive Annotated and Illustrated Bibliography 1955-2023 Volume 1' UPDATE: This comprehensive new book was due to be published this month but has been delayed due to editing issues and the discovery of more than 70 new titles and/or editions. A revised publication date for the nearly 500-page book will be announced soon. (non-final cover image pictured)

Compiled and written by EIN's Nigel Patterson, the four volumes of Elvis in Print: A Comprehensive Annotated & Illustrated Bibliography 1955-2023 will comprise around 2,000 pages, with listings for more than 4,000 books and around 2,000 images.
Volume 1 is the first of two detailing English language, “non-fiction” releases. It contains close to 500 pages, listings for more than 800+ titles, book covers for more than 500 listings, and interesting Sidebar articles discussing controversial releases and issues in the massive Elvis book catalog.
Sections in Elvis in Print Volume 1 include:
Academic Releases, Biographies, Compendiums: Catalogs, Discographies, Chart Histories, Interviews...  Conspiracy Theories, Elvis and the Colonel, Elvis and the Law, Elvis as Art and Elvis as Religion (including Psychic Experiences and Spirituality)...   
The 'Listings' include original releases, subsequent re-issues , (including digital editions) and a book synopsis.
'Elvis in Print' will be published in hardcover, softcover, and Kindle formats. It will be available from Amazon stores (the hardcover edition will only be available in those countries where Amazon offers this format).
EIN will publish more information soon.
(News, Source;NP/EIN) 

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

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

(Interviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

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

(Spotlight, Source;PaulSimpson/ElvisInformationNetwork)