Welcome to the "Elvis Information Network", home to the best news, reviews, interviews, Elvis photos & in-depth articles about the King of Rock & Roll, Elvis Aaron Presley...
Coming soon to EIN ... Book Reviews: 'The Occult Elvis'; and the three latest releases by prolific author, Paul Belard. Talking Elvis: Leo Sayer, Tommy Steele plus Pat Boone CD Review:'From Florida To Hawaii'
Saturday 3 May 2025
'1969 Concert: The King Returns': A Special Las Vegas Event: Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration at Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino! On Thursday, July 31, 2025, we’re bringing the King back to the stage with 1969 Live Concert: The King Returns, a one-night-only performance that authentically recreates Elvis Presley’s legendary 1969 concert.
Las Vegas attracts the biggest acts in music, but few have made as big an impact as Elvis Presley.
This year Elvis would have been 90 and the Westgate (previously Hilton), the main keeper of the Elvis Vegas historical flame, is running a calendar of special events anchored by the one night only '1969 Live Concert: The King Returns', on Thursday, July 31, 2025 the same date as his iconic 1969 debut concert.
... Elvis exploded onto the music scene in the mid-Fifties, and for many years he was the biggest act in the world. But in the Sixties he spent more time in Hollywood than performing. It was Elvis ' 1968 'comeback special' that changed public perception and put him back firmly in the national spotlight. The next year he released a wave of new hits including In the Ghetto, Kentucky Rain and mega-hit Suspicious Minds which help set the stage for his legendary LIVE 1969 comeback concerts in Las Vegas.
Elvis was booked to perform 57 shows over four weeks (unlike today’s stars he often did two performances a night) in the 2,000-seat theater of the new International Hotel, the biggest, shiniest thing in Las Vegas at the time.
The International opened with Barbara Streisand as headliner, but on July 31,1969 Elvis took over and his initial run broke all Vegas entertainment records and was extended again and again until he had been at the International for 7 years, 636 consecutive shows and every one sold out.
Today the International is the Westgate Las Vegas, and it is still a key part of Elvis Presley history and his legacy, with a prominent bronze statue of him in the lobby, which fans still adorn with flowers and gifts.
His original dressing room beneath the stage, complete with private bar, has been partially preserved as was his 30th floor residential suite.
The Westgate offers historic Elvis tours and an annual 3-day King of Las Vegas Elvis festival every summer. 'The King Returns' features acclaimed ETA Travis Powell who will historically recreate the show from the night Elvis made his triumphant return to live performances.
With nine back-up singers and an eight-piece band, numbers that exactly replicate the original concert, the cast will deliver an identical setlist to the night 56 years ago that turned the music scene on its head and made Elvis into the original Las Vegas headliner in residence.
SeeWestgate Hotel for more info & tickets (News, Source;Forbes/Westgate/EIN)
For more on the "real deal" check out our special EIN Spotlight below by super fan Joan Gansky
Elvis; Concert Review 1969: EIN Anniversary special Spotlight: On July 31 1969 Elvis returned to Live concert performances. All the media were there but so were the true fans. EIN contributor Joan Gansky was one of the lucky ones and wrote a delightful, personal review.
"The atmosphere throughout the entire hotel was nail-bitingly electric! It is difficult for me to describe and paint a true portrait of attending in person this unique occasion - but I'll try my best. I want, and hope, you will understand the excitement of what has to be the pinnacle of Elvis' career to date! I vaguely recall the Sweet Inspirations perform - followed by a seemingly lengthy act by comedian Sammy Shore. The audience grew impatient. At last! The curtains closed. A pause. . . . A white shoe, a hand "peeked" round the curtain - now open - the thrill of a lifetime as Elvis simply stood there. He smiled happily, looking far more dynamic than any photo I had ever seen of him! - attired in white, with a long sash (belt) and a splash of color in the red kerchief (scarf). . ."
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.
Second edition of 'ELVIS: The King of the Rings Volume 1': Author Paul Belard has released a 2nd edition of his popular 252-page softcover book, 'The King of Rings Volume 1'. The only change from the original 2023 release is a new cover.
The book is a great, visually colorful record of Elvis' love of glittery jewelry of the ring type.
The book description on Amazon..
.. Elvis liked expensive things: cars, motorcycles, clothes, and jewelry. His jewels befitted a king. He wore sumptuous pendants hung on heavy gold chains; huge and lavish rings set with rubies, sapphires, lapis lazuli, and emeralds; bracelets of gold and precious gems. Like Elvis himself, they were at times dazzlingly tasteful and beautiful,
and at other times flashy and ostentatious. Occasionally, he would design the jewels himself, such as the famous TCB - Taking Care of Business - pendant and ring.
He loved to give his possessions away to people close to him, as well as to complete strangers. The value of the item was of no concern to him. An expensive horseshoe ring was designed by Memphis jeweller Lowell Hays, specifically for Elvis to wear on stage during his televised Aloha from Hawaii performance in 1973. Elvis gave the ring away a few years later. It eventually sold at auction in 2017 for $204,800. - Shown: the 2023 edition (multi-ring cover) and 2025 edition (single ring cover) Read EIN's review of the book: (News, Source:EDBD; Amazon) - get here at Amazon US < or > Amazon UK
'The White Roots of Elvis Presley' New CD: From UK's Jasmine Records a neat compilation to complement their previous recent focus on 'The Black Roots of Elvis Presley.' Their publicity states...
.. Elvis’ original influences have been scrutinised and examined over the decades, and he was always quick to namecheck his main sources and inspirations. Let’s face it, had it not been for Presley, how many of us would have ever heard of Arthur “Big Boy” Crudup?
At the outset of his career there were few suitable original songs being submitted by music publishers, so it was inevitable that he would reach back and revive old favourites.
This compilation presents thirty such examples, examining Elvis’ White music roots, featuring some of the most notable Country, R&R and Pop numbers that he recorded.
Featured artists include Leon Payne, Bill Monroe, Dean Martin, Carl Perkins, Freddie Bell & The Bell Boys, Frankie Laine, Carl Mann, Eddy Arnold, Vern Stovall, Hank Snow, Ned Miller, Ray Peterson, George Jones, and more.
- Out 9 May 2025 See 'All The CD News 2025' for tracklist. - preorder here. (News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
'Elvis ’57: The Final Fifties Tours' New FTD Book:'Elvis ’57: The Final Fifties Tours' is a new 500-page FTD book release. It comes with a compact 33rpm EP.
The book features over 300 photos many rare and unpublished.
...In 1957, Elvis Aron Presley was still a one man phenomenon with six titles on the charts, one movie to his credit, and two movies soon to follow. But while he pursued his dream of becoming a Hollywood actor, the military draft threatened to shatter it along with his wildly successful rock ‘n’ roll career. Elvis couldn’t resist the excitement he found performing on stage before swarms of shrieking teenage girls, and in that final year before he entered the U.S. Army, he went back on the road for three short tours.
(Click for high-res image)
'Elvis ’57' recalls that magical year when the King played to audiences a quarter of a million people strong, and controversy and pandemonium accompanied him wherever he went.
Alan Hanson takes us for a rollicking ride through eighteen major cities in the United States and Canada. Elvis wore his famed gold lame suit and thirteen girls fainted in an effort to reach him. In Vancouver, British Columbia, thousands left their seats and rushed the stage, forcing him to abruptly end the show. Drawing on first-hand accounts from the disc-jockeys on the front lines of Elvis’s exploding career and fans who attended the ’57 concerts, Hanson sweeps you back to the years that forever changed the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
Note that the text of this new edition is the same as the original paperback edition, with only a few errors corrected. The big difference is the 100s of photos from Pal Granlund's collection many rare and unpublished.
EIN Note; Hanson's original paperback 'Elvis ’57: The Final Fifties Tours' was sensational (see EIN review)
He has also published the very enjoyable 'Elvis: The Movies' via 'The Elvis Files'.
Back in 2015 'The Elvis Files' also published the 416-page 'A Touch Of Gold Lame' which included hundreds of stunning photos from Elvis' 1957 concerts.
Not forgetting Paul Sweeney's fabulous 'One Night In Toronto'
It will be interesting to see how the books compare. (News, Source;FTD/ElvisInfoNet)
News from earlier last week ...
'Elvis: June 75' In-depth FTD Review: A new 4CD digi-set 'Elvis June 1975' featuring soundboards of four shows
from Mobile A/S June 2, Houston E/S June 5, Shreveport A/S June 7 and
Jackson A/S June 8 1975.
Disappointingly for collectors all the performances on this new FTD set have been out on bootleg before. However, with the barrel almost bare, there has to be plenty to enjoy in these mid-75 performances.
After all, After all, "This mid-1975 period was a positive return for Elvis. Elvis' good mood throughout is truly infectious and along with his well-sung and committed performances they all go to making these concerts worth listening to."
At the Houston Evening Show Elvis was buzzing with energy, while at the Jackson Afternoon Show the flies were buzzing Elvis! There is plenty of fun to hear and it was always a very fine set-list. Elvis soundboard super-collector Geoffrey McDonnell along with EIN's Piers Beagley explore this new set.... (FTD Reviews; Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
'Elvis Presley. Un fenomeno mondiale nelle cronache italiane. 1970-1974' New Italian book: The 4th volume in Luca Castellino and Ernesto Zucconi's popular series on Elvis in Italy has been released.
Published by NovAntico, the "Italian text" softcover (21 x 29.7 cm) contains 184 pages.
It is a narrative-visual (including archival material) account of Elvis in Italy between 1970 to 1974.
EIN reviewed his first volume in the series noting, "Scrapbook releases can be a lot of fun and in this respect, what Luca Casteelino and Ernesto Zucconi have produced, is a wonderful tribute to Elvis and a terrific addition to the voluminous Elvis book library. Elvis bibliophiles will love this release." (See review here)
Available from Amazon sites.
(Book News, Source:NP/ElvisInfonet)
‘Elvis: Summer In Vegas 1969 – 1973’ New Import: The Elvis One label presents a sequel to their "Winter In Vegas" releases from last year. The publicity states... This is a great collection of tracks with many highlights. Only 10 tracks were released by Elvis' record company. All tracks presented in the best possible sound quality (with respect to how the original recording was recorded).
Most of these recordings are soundboard recordings with very good sound!
Besides many fantastic live versions like the very first live version of 'My Way' and 'What Now My Love', or the spontaneous version of 'Sweet Inspiration', ‘Elvis - Summer In Vegas 1969 – 1973’ also includes 3 radio spots, an interview, announcements after the shows, and rehearsal excerpts. EIN Note: This appears to be a compilation that collectors could compile themselves, all previously released material from FTD, MRS and bootlegs See 'All The CD News 2025' for tracklists and details (News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
‘Elvis: Summer In Vegas 1974’ New Import: The Elvis One label publicity notes... A 2CD compilation of two soundboard recordings in the style of (for example) the ‘Elvis In Concert’ album from 1977. The best of two shows without all the endless monologues between the songs. The complete shows with these recordings have been released. While the songs were often surprisingly different than usual (and good), the endless monologues detracted from this. That's why we released it this way. It has become a surprising album that is wonderful to listen to and lets Elvis live in August 1974 shine!
We’ve only used recordings that are not available through the wonderful FTD Collectors label.
On the second CD we have made room for the monologues, band introductions and a very special Happy Birthday to Kathy Westmoreland. EIN Note: This is compiled from the well-known bootlegs 'Desert Storm' and 'Black Angels In Vegas'. See 'All The CD News 2025' for tracklists and details (News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
‘Elvis Presley - Rarities Vol. 1’ New Import: The Elvis One label publicity states..
.. A very nice collection of recordings mostly not released by Elvis' official record company, including some recordings that have never been heard before. These include interviews, demos, rehearsals, live recordings...
Perhaps one of the most notable recordings is the song ‘Banana’ recorded for the movie ‘King Creole’. This recording comes from the original acetate and was previously unreleased until now! (EIN Note - It is on the recent FTD set!) Other recordings are: Radio Spots for the movie ‘Follow That Dream’, The unedited radio broadcast from Elvis live in Toledo, Ohio, November 22 1956 with original sound - Very good sounding audience recordings from the opening night in Las Vegas, January 26 1974, some rare interviews and much more!
As a special bonus we’ve included some extra tracks, including a private recording from Elvis’ father Vernon Presley. EIN Note: Includes a bunch of oddities including 'Killing Me Softly' sung by Sherrill Nielsen plus the recent MRS 'Fire In Toledo 1956' See 'All The CD News 2025' for tracklists and full details (News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
‘Elvis Presley - Rarities Vol 2’ New Import: The Elvis One label publicity states.
.. A very nice collection of recordings mostly not released by Elvis' official record company, including some recordings that have never been heard before.
Other recordings are: Radio Spots for ‘Follow That Dream’, two previously unreleased demo recordings for the movie ‘Blue Hawaii’ -
Very good sounding audience recordings from the opening night in Las Vegas, January 26 1974, 1974 Soundboard recordings - Some rare interviews previously unreleased on CD - And much more!
As a special bonus we’ve included some extra tracks, including a private recording from; recordings from Elvis' grandfather, a radio broadcast from Red Robinson celebrating 12 years of Elvis... EIN Note: Includes the Frank Sinatra 'Welcome Home Elvis', live 70's songs plus home recordings like 'Blowin’ In The Wind' See 'All The CD News 2025' for tracklists and full details (News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
... 'The most controversial performer in show business today is husky,
long-haired, hip-swinging, rock 'n' roll singer Elvis Presley. ... and he
can afford to smile at the controversy the mere mention of his name
arouses. To date such controversy has meant a million gross within his
first show biz year as well as a comfortable seven-year Hollywood film
contract.
Hal Wallis, who signed Martin and Lewis to their first Hollywood contract, is the astute producer who is willing to gamble on having the right answer to the question: "Elvis Presley - Hollywood Hot Shot or Flop?"
'Elvis News Report May 2025': Elvis super-fan Emiel Maier presents all the recent news including...... Premiere of the Elvis hologram show in London postponed, Elvis Week 2025 high prices, The story of
Wink Martindale and Elvis, Book & vinyl news, Deceased songwriters: Seals & Johnny Tillotson, The missed opportunities for singles success in the 1960s.. and much much more...
'From Florida To Hawaii' Second Pressing:Anthony Stuchbury's new RDM release 'From Florida To Hawaii' Sold Out in the very first week of release. But great news for collectors as, due to popular demand, it is being repressed for a second edition - out later in May.
It features the 'Follow That Dream' mono masters in Stereo that will match the session Stereo outakes
Plus the 'Girls!, Girls!, Girls!' album remixed to give a more authentic and immersive stereo listening experience.
In the original RCA mix all the instruments were left channel, Elvis middle and only The Jordanaires right channel.
Tracks like 'Return To Sender' always sounded very week in the original stereo mix. This has at last been rectified. With the rhythm section blasting the track along from the centre, everything sounds so much better. This will be the STEREO version that fans will play from now on...
Includes a previously unreleased version of 'Dainty Little Moonbeams / Girls, Girls, Girls' End Title Order now from RDM or try UK'sElvis4Sale (News, Source;AS/EIN)
MRS ‘Live At The Houston Astrodome 1974' CD & VINYL OUT NOW: More good news for collectors as the ‘Memphis Recording Service’ (MRS) new CD Deluxe and 180 gram LP titled ‘Live At The Houston Astrodome 1974’ is OUT NOW and at your local Elvis dealers.
Near the start of his extensive tour on 3rd March 1974, Elvis made a major appearance at one of the biggest venues, The Astrodome in Houston Texas, entertaining in excess of 88,000 fans that day.
The CD contains Elvis’ performance from the occasion and, for the first time ever, this recording is presented in stereo.
The Houston show is a truly important performance since there was no room for the usual orchestra and so it was just Elvis, the TCB Band and Backing-Vocalists. Playing on a stage in the middle of the huge Astrodome and without any orchestra back-up this would have been a challenging concert but luckily Elvis was full of energy and both he and the band worked hard to compensate for there being no orchestra.
The recording is totally unique, demonstrating that in 1974 Elvis could still play with just his core musicians to create that 'Presley Magic' for that massive Texas crowd.
And in "STEREO" fans can better investigate and discover that special 'Presley Magic'.
The booklet includes rare photographs and memorabilia from the event which set the scene for this historic performance.
(click for high-res)
The LP version will be available in both Black and Clear vinyl. Please note, the clear vinyl is ONLY available from exclusive Elvis dealers.
Elvis pianist David Briggs has died: David Briggs who played keyboards on multiple Elvis sessions as well as touring with the TCB Band, died yesterday morning, he was 82.
David Briggs (left in the photo along with his friend Norbert Putman) was born in Alabama and was playing keyboards on sessions by the time he was 14. Briggs plus other future Elvis musicians Jerry Carrigan and Norbert Putnam would be part of The Muscle Shoals band at Rick Hall's Fame Studio. Briggs was 18 when he played piano on Arthur Alexander massive hit ‘You Better Move On.’
He later moved to Nashville working as a session musician and would play on hit records by artists including Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, Reba McEntire, Garth Brooks, Kris Kristofferson and many more. He later co-founded 'Quadrafonic Studio' with Norbert Putnam and would later open his own studio 'House of David'.
Briggs started working with Elvis in 1966 when he stood in for a delayed Floyd Cramer at Elvis' 'How Great Though Art' sessions.
Elvis asked Briggs to play piano on his recording of 'Love Letters' and after impressing Elvis he then continued playing keyboards on the rest of the session.
David Briggs would play a key part in Elvis' 'Nashville Marathon' 1970 sessions and it is his piano playing you hear on Elvis' classic studio versions of Bridge Over Troubled Water, I Really Don't Want To Know, Mary In The Morning, Just Pretend, Rags To Riches and so many more.
He would also play on Elvis 1971 Nashville sessions - it is his lovely blues piano work you hear on the classic 'Merry Christmas Baby' - and would return for the 1973 Stax sessions, again 'Promised Land' is his piano lead. He would also play on Elvis final 'Jungle Room' sessions.
On New Year's Eve 1975 at Pontiac Stadium, David Briggs would join with the TCB Band and in 1976, after Glen Hardin left, he joined the band full-time touring with Elvis. It was on Elvis' second 1976 tour in April that David Briggs' 'Love Letters' would first be included in the band solos.
Briggs would leave the TCB Band after the February 1977 tour when Elvis discovered that he was having a relationship with Linda Thompson. The relationship between David Briggs and Linda Thompson would last three years, although they still remained close friends. Linda credits him with starting her career as a composer.
David Briggs' work with Elvis sessions would continue after 1977 when in 1982 he produced the remix Sessions for 'The Elvis Medley'. The single would chart at #51 UK and #71 in Billboard Top 100.
Briggs also produced the "overdub" sessions for RCA's 'I Was The One' album where the original musicians, Scotty Moore, DJ, Jordanaires etc reworked Elvis' 50's classics into a more contemporary stereo sound. It did not chart.
David Briggs said of Elvis, "Elvis was so charismatic. He was a very magnetic guy. I have never met an entertainer that was that exciting or inspiring. I was always a fan of his. I have worked with a lot of big stars but I never had one that I have enjoyed working with that much as Elvis."
Briggs was inducted into the 'Alabama Music Hall of Fame' in 1999 and the 'Musicians Hall of Fame' in 2019.
Linda Thompson posted on Instagram ... We lost a great talent and a wonderful friend this morning. David Briggs was responsible for my becoming a songwriter. Many years ago he read some of my poetry and insisted that I was a lyricist. He composed music around some of my lyrics and the first cut I ever had was this beautiful song recorded by Kenny Rogers - written by David and me. I owe so much of my success to him. I was able to speak those reaffirming words to him last night in our conversation while he was in hospice.
For those of you who may not know, David was Elvis‘s keyboard player for many years and that’s how I met him. What a blessing it was to be able to reminisce about our good times together and our lasting friendship before he passed away only a few hours after we spoke. Our last words to each other were “I love you.” If you have someone you’ve been meaning to reach out to, do it now, please. You never know how much it might mean to them… And to yourself. God bless your soul, and rest in peace, David…❤️🌹🎶🙏🏻
Will Hutchins Elvis co-star Dies at 94: Will Hutchins who most famously portrayed frontier lawyer Tom Brewster on the 1957-61 ABC Western Sugarfoot, died Monday April 21. He was 94.
Hutchins also appeared in two Elvis films, as Tracy Richards in Spinout (1966) and as Tom Wilson in Clambake (1967) in which he lip-synced the “Who Needs Money?” duet with Elvis.
Marshall Lowell Hutchason was born in LA on May 5 1930. When he was a kid he rode his bicycle down to a film shoot to end up in a crowd scene in the W.C. Fields 1941 classic 'Never Give a Sucker an Even Break'.
As a contract player for Warner Bros he shot to sudden fame as Tom Brewster in ‘Sugarfoot’ who starts out as the naïve new sheriff of Bluerock.
Hutchins also starred as Woody Banner in the 1966-67 NBC sitcom 'Hey, Landlord' and later appeared in the CBS comedy Blondie.
He also guest starred in multiple TV series such as, 'Emergency!' and 'The Streets of San Francisco.'
Hutchins was recently featured in our EIN 'Talking Elvis' series.
He explained... The camera loved Elvis. I'm sure if the Colonel had allowed him to accept meatier roles, he'd have won an Oscar. He was the most talented fellow I ever worked with. Sometimes I'd feel a tad lost. On the last day at the cast party, Elvis gave me a huge picture of ‘himself' in a red shirt. He signed it, 'He'p Us Out, Will - Elvis'. The picture was so big I nailed it on the wall of my garage for all to see. There it remained for 12 years. I'll never lose my memories of 'Spinout', 'Clambake' and The King and his red shirt." (News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
The book description explains...
.. This biography delves into the remarkable life of Elvis, exploring his family background, music career, films, and enduring legacy. Includes QR-Codes for an immersive reading experience.
The author has transformed this biography into an interactive experience like never before. By integrating QR codes throughout the book, readers can instantly access videos and other multimedia content on their mobile devices. This innovative approach makes the biography not just informative but also engaging, immersive, and dynamic, bringing Elvis's story to life in a whole new way.
EIN’s Nigel Patterson spent a leisurely Sunday immersing himself in Lee Jackson’s account of the Elvis Presley story. .. Read Nigel’s review...
FTD Releases Delayed: The FTD label have announced that the upcoming release of 'Girl Happy Special Vinyl Edition' has been delayed due to "production issues."
'The Girl Happy Sessions' Box-Set FTD In-Depth Review:'The Girl Happy Sessions' is the 13th FTD “complete sessions” release.
This 3-CD set contains all the masters and available session outtakes. Highlights include unedited full-length masters and also the rare vocal re-record of 'I Feel That I’ve Known You Forever' especially made for the motion picture 'Tickle Me'.
This set includes previously unreleased takes of 'Puppet On A String', 'The Meanest Girl In Town', 'Girl Happy' (multiple long 'False starts'), 'Cross My Heart And Hope to Die' (multiple long 'False starts'), 16 new outtakes of 'Spring Fever' - and all 36 takes of 'Do Not Disturb' (only 6 outtakes have been released so far!).
So there is a lot of previously unreleased studio session eavesdropping in this release, in fact over 80 new outtakes.
The package also includes a comprehensive 24 page booklet.
Priscilla Presley – the Playboy Photoshoot, potentially starring in Charlie’s Angels, and the Presley name: With Priscilla Presley’s new memoir, Softly, As I Leave You Life After Elvis, only months away, EIN revisited her original memoir, Elvis and Me (1985), and Suzanne Finstad’s book, Child Bride: The Untold Story of Priscilla Beaulieu (1997).
From the latter we suspect many readers will be surprised about these excerpts:
“Things began to happen once Priscilla assembled her entourage, made up of William Morris agents, a personal manager, and the independent scouts she had prowling the industry to find her a contract, make her a star. Hollywood executives, interested in the curiosity value of Priscilla Presley, came forth with offers, badgered by Joel Stevens. Kate Jackson had just left Charlie’s Angels, and Priscilla was asked to replace her, or at least read for the part. She turned down the offer, saying later, “Charlie’s Angels just didn’t appeal to me. I was afraid of getting typed, just like most of the girls did. Once you do a Charlie’s Angels, you are a Charlie’s Angels girl. And you are just pretty. I wanted to do more.”
“Priscilla posed for a Playboy layout and approved the cover shot but then backed out, a perfect illustration of the good girl–bad girl split that conflicted her. “I reneged on it. I guess they offered quite a bit of money to do it.… I couldn’t live with myself. I’ve always been a bit shy in that area, and I always thought, It will come back to haunt me. I always think of that. And thank God, because look at all the girls it’s come back to haunt.”
“The Charlie’s Angels producers and Hugh Hefner saw Priscilla Presley as a name that would elicit attention and interest from the public. She got her first major contract shortly afterward as a spokesmodel for Wella Balsam, for essentially the same reason. “Because it was ‘Priscilla Presley represents Wella Balsam,’ ” recalled Mike Edwards, who had listened to Priscilla earlier announce that she would drop the Presley name when she got her first job and be known thereafter as Priscilla Beaulieu.
Reality - financial reality - intervened, however. Mike said, “She’s smart enough to know, ‘Wow, I should probably … keep this [name], because it’s a moneymaker.’ ” Priscilla was replacing Jaclyn Smith and Farrah Fawcett - two of the original Charlie’s Angels, ironically - as the face of Wella Balsam.”
Gail Brewer-Giorgio has died: Prolific Elvis author, Gail Brewer Giorgio, has died, aged 85. She is best known for her 1988 million-copy selling book, The Most Incredible Elvis Presley Story Ever Told(HB) / Is Elvis Alive aka The Elvis Tape (softcover + cassette), which was a non-fiction adaptation of her 1978 novel, Orion: The Living Superstar of Song.
The book generated a thriving group of "underground" organisations promoting and activating around the "faked death" theory....... not to forget the thousands of newspapers and magazines that covered the story for several decades. It also resulted in the arrival of the charismatic masked singer, Orion (Jimmy Ellis), who many believed to be Elvis.
Following the success of The Elvis Files/ Tape, Ms Brewer-Giorgio wrote The Elvis Files! (Was His Death Faked?) (1990);Elvis Undercover: Is He Alive and Coming Back? (1999); and a book of poetry, Roses to Elvis.
Ms Brewer-Giorgio was a founding member of the self-appointed Presley Commission, a group which investigated Elvis' death and produced a somewhat disjointed 312-page record (The Presley Report) on its findings.
Ms Brewer-Giorgio was also a key consultant for the two Bill Bixby hosted TV specials, The Elvis Files(1991) and The Elvis Conspiracy(1992). She alleged she was ripped off by the producers of the specials.
Regardless of what you think about Gail Brewer-Giorgio, she has the distinction of being only one of a handful of authors who have released a million-copy selling book about Elvis, and a key figure in what was a large and intriguing community of Elvis fans who believed Elvis may have faked his death. (News, Source: ElvisInfoNet)
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)
Wink Martindale US TV Icon has died age 91: Wink Martindale, the genial US TV game show and friend to Elvis died last Tuesday age 91.
Perhaps best known to the general public for hosting the beloved 'Tic-Tac-Dough' and 'Gambit' he had a remarkable 74-year career.
Born Winston Conrad Martindale on December 4 1933, in Jackson, Tennessee, he loved radio since childhood and began his career as a disc jockey at age 17 at WPLI in his hometown, earning $25 a week. He later moved to Memphis hosting mornings at WHBQ while attending Memphis State.
Wink became close friends with Elvis Presley in 1954 when he worked at WHBQ. Martindale recalls meeting Elvis during a night when the station was playing an acetate of Presley's "That's All Right." The radio station's DJ, Dewey Phillips, played the song multiple times due to the overwhelming listener reaction, and Martindale - who phoned Elvis' mother Gladys - played a key role in getting Presley to come to the studio for an interview.
In 1956 Martindale then approached fellow DJ Dewey Phillips and Elvis to do a joint interview on Martindale’s TV show “Top Ten Dance Party”. Elvis was by then a major star but agreed to the appearance.
Martindale and Elvis stayed in touch through the years and
in 1959 he did a trans-Atlantic telephone interview with Elvis in Germany. Martindale’s second wife, Sandy, briefly dated Elvis after meeting him on the set of 'G.I. Blues' in 1960.
Martindale and Presley remained friends until Elvis' tragic death. (News, Source;Various)
Graceland posted...Wink Martindale, the legendary radio and television icon, passed away on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at the age of 91. He was surrounded by family and his beloved wife of 49 years, Sandra Martindale.
... He started his career as a disc jockey in Jackson at the age of 17. Wink became close friends with Elvis Presley in 1954 when he worked at WHBQ Radio in Memphis.
Most recently, Wink appeared at Elvis' 2024 Elvis Birthday Celebration where he was honored with a Beale Street Note on the Beale Street Walk of Fame.
Wink will be deeply missed by the Graceland family.
In 2001, during COVID, Wink and Sandy Martindale did this delightful virtual interview with host Tom Brown as part of Elvis' 2021 Graceland Birthday Celebration. (News, Source;EPE)
V V - - Other EIN ELVIS treats continue below - - V V
'January - March 2025........ The "likely" AI Book releases': EIN's Nigel Patterson checks out some recent "AI generated" books'.. .. Background...
The introduction of Chat GPT in 2022 followed by other artificial intelligence programs has allowed anyone to "quickly author" a book. Since 2022, there have been hundreds of "likely AI generated" book releases about not only Elvis, but also other notable members of his family.
- The number of titles about Elvis that are "likely" AI generated exceeds 100.
- In 2023, following Lisa Marie Presley's passing in January more than 100 "quickie" biographies about her were published that year!
- There have also been numerous "quickie" books about Priscilla Presley and Riley Keough.
- The AI programs are also being used to produce Elvis quiz and word game books, and calendars.
- The releases can have hardcover, softcover and digital (Kindle) editions.
EIN has spotted more than 14 fake 'AI' releases in the past few months, including the four below.. Go here to EIN's "Elvis Book News 2025" for the full article and check out the other terrible covers and strange text.. Buyer Beware (News, Source;NP/ElvisBookNews)
MRS 'Down In the Alley' Opening Night 1974' CD & Vinyl: UK Label ‘Memphis Recording Service’ (MRS) will release ‘Las Vegas – ‘Down In The Alley’ Opening Night 1974’ as a CD Deluxe and 2LP Gatefold sleeve in both black and clear vinyl titled.
Release date early June 2025.
This CD features Elvis’ opening night show at the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel on 19 August 1974 at the start of his eleventh season, during which he performed an almost completely revamped set-list.
At no other 1970's concert did Elvis perform so many unique songs such as ‘Down In The Alley’, ‘Good Time Charlie's Got The Blues’ and debuts of ‘Promised Land’, ‘It’s Midnight’ plus ‘If You Talk In Your Sleep’ and ‘If You Love Me (Let Me Know)’. ‘Softly As I Leave You’, ‘My Baby Left Me’ and ‘I'm Leavin'’ were also performed. It was an astounding Opening Night.
For the first time ever, the original recording has been newly remastered and mixed into STEREO.
The accompanying booklet features rare photographs and memorabilia from the event and also includes liner notes that set the scene.
(click for high-res)
The LP version will be available in both Black and Clear vinyl. The 2LP sets 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.
EIN NOTE: Fans have been hoping for a new high-quality audio remaster of this unique show, and we have no doubt that MRS will deliver.
'Elvis Book News' New EIN feature: Elvis Presley's influence and legacy has touched every kind of publication and media platform since he became the world's most successful entertainer of all-time back in the 1950s.
This year would have been Elvis' 90th birthday and thanks to RCA / SONY / FTD / MRS, along with the bootleg labels, nearly every minute of music that Elvis ever recorded has now been released. In this century Elvis Presley has now become even more of a pivotal role as part of our socio-cultural fabric... his impact / influence is greater than just his music.
Nowadays fans find more literature about Elvis and his legacy being published than 'new' music.
EIN's “Elvis Book News” will focus on book reviews, news and also the eclectic nature of Elvis' influence across all forms of literature.
Check out our new “Elvis Book News”- more updates coming soon. (Elvis Book News, Source:ElvisInformationNetwork)
'Talking Elvis': EIN's other new feature 'Talking Elvis' is also updated today with new reminiscences from Freddie Mercury, Larry Geller, Mark James and orchestra conductor Bobby Morris.
Meeting ELVIS made an impression on everyone from the poorest fan to the world’s biggest superstars. Even the briefest meeting or chance encounter with Elvis created some lovely memories as well as some fascinating stories.
These smaller encounters often get lost or forgotten and sadly there are fewer and fewer people still alive who had personal encounters with our hero. So EIN has gathered together multiple stories to help us understand and know more. 'Talking Elvis' features reminiscences from people including Elton John, Paul McCartney, Robert Plant, Paul Simon, Cliff Richard, Cher, Linda Thompson, Suzi Quatro, Riley Keough, Ernst Jorgensen, PJ Harvey, Will Hutchins, Dolly Parton, Nick Cave, Billy Smith, Ann-Margret, Barbara Stanwyck, Engelbert Humperdinck, Sam Thompson, Priscilla and many more... Go here to EIN's 'Taking ELVIS' (Interviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
'Elvis Evolution' Postponed!: After the masses of publicity and months of anticipation EIN is shocked to see the announcement on their official FB page that "Elvis Evolution is Postponed" only 4 weeks before opening date of May 10.
.. Dear Elvis fans, we are so deeply sorry to have to move the opening date of Elvis Evolution. This is due to unforeseen delays caused by an outside vendor going into administration. By adjusting the opening date of the experience to 18 July 2025, we will ensure we deliver the world class experience that Elvis' legacy deserves.
We've spent the past few weeks mobilising a team across the globe to finalise this highly specialised work. Please know that this decision has not been taken lightly, and we are doing everything we can to minimise the disruption and, most of all, ensure we deliver a show fit for the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
Your tickets are still valid and you can select a new date and time by visiting: https://elvisevolution.seetickets.com/CustomerService
We really do sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused... EIN NOTE: It appears that while tickets can be exchanged anyone who bought flights, train tickets, plus hotels, accommodation will have to get refunds for themselves. As the event was supposed to launch next month May 10 2025 we suspect that a lot of dedicated Elvis fans will be badly out of pocket. EIN is waiting for updates.. (News, Source;EE/EIN)
This is a fascinating interview covering many issues from Carlos’ interest in aviation, the “Lisa Marie” story pre-Elvis, and how the flight crew pranked Elvis before his first flight, to how EPE brought the “Lisa Marie” back home to its proper home at Graceland (the logistical arrangements make for absorbing reading), and what will surprise many readers, piloting the “Lisa Marie” in flight simulation games.
'Elvis Week 2025': The Memphis Commercial Appeal has posted an Elvis Week update, they note..
Graceland will host Elvis Week from August 8-16, 2025, marking the 48th anniversary of Elvis Presley's death.
The traditional centerpiece of Elvis Week is the annual Candlelight Vigil, set for Aug 15 at Graceland’s front gate. Other highlights of the programming include:
- Aug. 8-10: 2025 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest
- Aug. 13: 'A Night in Elvis’ Hollywood', celebrating his film career with co-stars and live music
- Aug. 14: 'Elvis Music Salute', featuring artists who shared the stage and studio with Elvis
- Aug. 15: 'Conversations on Elvis', intimate stories from Presley’s friends and colleagues.
- Aug. 16: 'Elvis: Live on Stage' a big-screen Elvis experience with a live band.
Among the celebrities set to appear are hitmaking pop singer Tony Orlando, country music star and songwriter Larry Gatlin, Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Famer Brenda Lee, and Nashville session legend Charlie McCoy. Peter Guralnick, author of 'Last Train to Memphis' and the forthcoming 'The Colonel and The King' will be there.
Elvis film co-stars Pat Priest (“Easy Come, Easy Go”), Marlyn Mason (“The Trouble with Girls”), and Robin and Gavin Koon (“Follow that Dream”) will also appear.
Elvis Week perennials including Jerry Schilling, Linda Thompson, the Stamps' veteran Larry Strickland, Elvis’ Imperials Terry Blackwood and Jim Murray, plus Estelle Brown of the Sweet Inspirations will also appear.
Elvis always wanted his concerts priced so that they were affordable for all his fans, so one wonders what Elvis would make of...
The 'Jerry Schilling Graceland Mansion Q&A Experience'An after-hours experience with special guest Jerry Schilling
And ‘Linda Thompson Graceland Mansion Q&A Experience’An after-hours experience with special guest Linda Thompson
Admittedly for only small groups of ten - but costing US$1250 per person!
Additional Elvis Week 2025 events include:
- Aug. 12: Fan Celebration
- Aug. 13: Elvis: An Author’s Perspective (panel discussion with Linda Thompson)
- Aug. 16: Brunch and a Movie
- Aug. 16: Inspired by Elvis
Go here toEPE for tickets and more into (News, Source;CommAppeal/EIN)
- EIN reveals the clues fans should have spotted.
- That Jerry Schilling does not have any Social Media presence
- That EIN advised both Facebook and EPE leading to the removal of the offending page.
Go here as Nigel Patterson reveals the full story.
Thanks to EIN many unsuspecting fans were saved from the scam - which had already cost some enthusiasts between US$120 and US$180 and possibly their credit card details .
'Elvis - a Different Kind of Idol' Presley’s impact piles up fans, fads and fears.
In it they note that, "Up to a point, the country can withstand the impact of Elvis Presley as a familiar and acceptable phenomenon" as the US had seen it before with Sinatra and Rudy Vallee. "The rewards of this, bump and grind, fearless expression are almost unbelievable for the young man who gave up his truck driving job two years ago to become a full-time singer."
Luckily the local Trinity Baptist Church was saying a Prayer For Elvis with the Reverent Gray noting that Elvis "had achieved a new low in spiritual degeneracy."
Elvis' career certainly lasted a little longer than the LIFE magazine writers expected back in 1956!
'ELVIS: On Tour 1974 California' MRS CD Review: The new MRS 3CD Deluxe-set contains three performances from Elvis’ five-day tour of California in May 1974,
during which he performed in front of 60,000 fans, including an
attendance by the legendary British rock band, Led Zeppelin, whom he met
afterwards.
The pack includes 66 live tracks plus Bonus Tracks the ‘Home Recordings’ of 'Spanish Eyes' and 'Let Me Be The One'.
For the first time ever the shows are presented in stereo and with the tape speed correct.
The accompanying booklet includes rare photographs and memorabilia dating from this short tour.
The 3CD set includes Elvis' performances from May 11 Inglewood Forum L.A, May 12 afternoon show Fresno and also May 13 San Bernardino.
The speed correction and new stereo mix breathes new life into the shows and the result is very impressive indeed, capturing Elvis still performing with a real energy.
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.'
'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.
'Elvis: Day By Day 2024' Book Review: From author Kees Mouwen the latest in his 'Elvis Day By Day' series of 'The Year In Review'.
Packed into a colourful 480 pages is all the relevant news of what happened in the Elvis world these past twelve months . 'Elvis Day By Day 2024' features all the news, including a complete overview of all new music, available on CD and on vinyl. Additionally, it covers all the worthwhile books and magazines, all the movies and TV specials released on DVD, Blu-ray, and streaming services. Plus “everything else Elvis” that mattered, while skipping the nonsense.
ELVIS is still impacting the world we live in. His legacy is truly stunning. To appreciate Elvis’ lasting impact we actually need an “Annual” summary where we can take it all in - and this is what ‘Elvis Day By Day 2024’ provides.
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 new 'Elvis Annual' and finds that there is plenty to read and lots for collectors to discuss
(Book Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
Baz Luhrmann Explains more about his new Elvis Documentary: With heightened interest about Luhrmann's future Elvis documentary the director revealed some secrets from outside Graceland and US Deadline also asked him some questions...
Luhrmann was back at Graceland telling all, "I am thrilled to be back in Graceland and to be able to say that it's true, it is very very true.. I can't even begin to tell you what we have found during the making of 'ELVIS', in terms of never before seen concert footage.. and our sleeves are rolled up, we're working hard and we want to make something absolutely unprecedented and special with this material. So it's time, as we like to say, to TCB."
Luhrmann also explained to Deadline, “There has always been talk amongst Elvis’ fans, both longtime fans and newer fans brought in by our film Elvis, of missing reels and never-before-seen concert footage.
"During the making of ELVIS, from very early on in my process I had the privilege to access the studio’s vaults deep in the salt mines of Kansas, where troves of old film negatives are stored. We were astonished by the sheer volume of unused footage from Elvis: That’s the Way It Is, the film of Elvis’ legendary 1970 Summer Festival in Las Vegas, all shot on anamorphic 35mm, and also from Elvis’s road concert film from two years later, 'Elvis On Tour'.
“Equally exciting was that we found not only material that has never been seen in this quality but also rare behind-the-scenes audio that had been feared lost, especially some fascinating recordings of Elvis telling stories from his own life in his own words.”
“We’re still very much in the middle of creating this work, but there has been so much talk and such enthusiasm for this
that I felt now it was time to share what has been happening with it. I can’t say much more about it, except that I wouldn’t call it a documentary, or a concert film; our aim here is to make something new in the Elvis canon.
My creative team at Bazmark is being led by my longtime editor, Jonathan Redmond, and we’ve partnered with the terrific teams at Authentic Studios and Sony Music Vision, with great support from Warner Bros., to bring something to the screen that befits the magnitude of Elvis as a performer but also offers deeper revelations of his humanity and inner life.”
'Bazmark' / Authentic Studios are producing the documentary.
The film will be distributed by Sony Music Vision, in partnership with SONY Legacy Recordings.
See Official Baz Luhrmann Insta announcement here (News, Source;Deadline/BazL/EIN)
Director Baz Luhrmann confirms his new Elvis Documentary: As reported by EIN at Elvis Week 2024 EPE's Joel Weinshanker confirmed that, "Baz Lurhmann is working on his Elvis documentary.There will be one new Elvis movie between now and 2027 possibly two."
Today ELVIS director Baz Luhrmann also confirmed... .. (check insta here) .."I’m really thrilled that I am finally able to announce that we have all been working hard and collaborating on unearthing and showcasing a treasure trove of unseen footage, sound and other materials to create something special for the big and small screen - TCB!"
The trailer states.. After 10 years away from the stage Elvis made his triumphant return in Las Vegas. For over 50 years there have been rumors of lost footage.. During the production of Baz Luhrmann's Elvis it was found... "
Great news for Elvis fans,
More info when we get it (News, Source;BazInsta/ElvisInfoNet)
'Elvis Last Tours Vol.2' In-depth FTD Review: FTD's 3-CD 5”digipak 'Elvis: The Last Tours Volume 2' features recordings from six Elvis performances in March 1977, Norman OK March 25 & 26 , Abilene Tx March 27, Austin Tx March 28 and Alexandria LA March 29 & 30.
By 1977 Elvis was running on low, his set-list had become stagnant and fans were lucky to hear Elvis perform any rare song in his predictable set-list.
Elvis was not in good health, had been rowing with girlfriend Ginger Alden and the last four dates of this second tour of 1977 had to be cancelled.
So one has to ask how much do you enjoy Elvis’ performances in 1977? Five of these soundboards have never been released before and it is Elvis’ Abilene concert that is the real highlight.
Of course, if you are a collector who appreciates Elvis in 1977 then this set might be perfect for your collection. Elvis soundboard super-collector Geoffrey McDonnell along with EIN's Piers Beagley explore this new six concert pack in-depth to see what fans might discover.. (FTD Reviews; Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
'The Mono to Stereo Interview with Anthony Stuchbury':The new STEREO Elvis box-set 'PRESLEY The Essential '50's Masters' from producer Anthony Stuchbury will be released by the french RDM label next week.
The question of whether Elvis' mono fifties classic recordings should be re-released in "new stereo" is hotly debated among hard-core collectors and this box-set includes all of Elvis' 50's mono masters in STEREO!
So this week is the perfect time to talk to the man behind the mixing desk, for the backstory behind this recent development of mixing Elvis’ original Mono recordings into STEREO.
Tony talks about working with RDM, Memphis Mansion, Ernst Jorgensen, the FTD label ... and much much more.. EIN's Piers Beagley and Elvis Day By Day's Kees Mouwen combined forces to ask "Mono II Stereo" producer Anthony Stuchbury some tricky questions. (Interview, Source;Elvis Day By Day/ElvisInfoNetwork)
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).
'From Here to the Great Unknown’ Book Review: After all the publicity and hype Lisa Marie's revealing memoir has recently been published. There is no doubt that being part of a famous family certainly does not guarantee a happy life.
As Keough explains, “The early parts of the book are mostly my mother's voice, in the tapes she speaks at length about her Graceland childhood, the death of her father, the dreadful aftermath, her relationship with her mother, her difficult teen years. She’s frank and funny about my father, Danny Keough. She talks openly about her relationship with Michael Jackson. She’s painfully candid about later drug addiction and the perils of fame…
If you have ever wondered how Lisa Marie coped with life post-Elvis or noticed those old tabloid news reports saying that she had once again “gone off the rails” or spotted the tension between her and Priscilla, the answers and much, much, more are in this stunning memoir...
While Elvis died when Lisa Marie was only 9 years old there is still plenty new to discover from this intriguing book.. EIN's Piers Beagley checks out this powerful memoir, wonders why the Australian book has been edited - and discovers the delights of the Audio-Book..
(Book Reviews: Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
(Spotlight/Opinion, Source: Rock and roll - an introduction)
UPDATED 'ELVIS / MEMPHIS' In-depth Review: The SONY RCA 'ELVIS / MEMPHIS' 2024 5-CD box-set was released last month.
The publicity promised.. "MEMPHIS is a comprehensive collection that takes listeners through the many recordings Elvis had done while in Memphis - from his songs at SUN Records, to his American Studio and Stax sessions, through to his 1974 hometown show and finally, his last recordings in Graceland.
This 5-CD collection of Elvis’ songs over the years features 111 tracks, 88 of which are newly mixed versions of the select recordings, pure and without overdubs."
The five CDs each focus on SUN Records, American Studios, Stax Studios, LIVE Mid-South Coliseum Memphis and Graceland. Elvis fans have of course bought these tracks multiple times before and FTD have even released most of the "Undubbed masters".
However with 'ELVIS / MEMPHIS' engineer Matt Ross-Spang remixing these crucial recordings, often creating something unique and new for 2024 and there is much to enjoy.
In fact listening to this set is like a five-course 'MEMPHIS degustation' since every individual recording session has a different flavour and vibe. . Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley provides a 5,500 word review checking out every track to reveal what new excitements fans might discover..
You can also 'Have Your Say' - what did you like or dislike about this new release? NOW UPDATED with Readers comments. (CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
EPE Future Plans: For Elvis fans, the really interesting point was when Joel Weinshanker (majority owner of EPE) explained his future plans.
This included the following points
- EPE wants to bring back "the life" to Graceland of when Elvis lived there.
There has been too much sadness recently.
His idea is to only do new concepts that Elvis would do or approve of.
- EPE are going to be doing "something special"on the mansion grounds every few months. Some fans can participate in, some not.
- The new special tour 'Presley for a Day' will be unique and expensive, however a fair portion of the profits are going to charity & good things for the local community.
Part of this tour will be 'Moriah’s House' which was the stable and home for Lisa Marie’s horse. We’re starting with that house. Elvis’ legacy was Lisa. Elvis said, "The best thing I ever did in my life was have Lisa".
Now her daughter Riley has taken over and is extraordinary - and solely focused on what is best for Elvis’ legacy.
“Our Road to fifty” is the new plan as they head to the fiftieth anniversary. We have three years until 2027
- There will be three to four new buildings opened on the mansion property. EPE will be announcing these and they will be doing things that Elvis would have done.
Some of the things that Elvis designed himself.
- One could be a Recording Studio built on the property. This was something that Elvis not only always wanted, but he designed. In the archives there are architectural drawings for that. - There will be one new Elvis movie between now and 2027 - possibly two. - Baz Lurhman is working on his Elvis documentary.
There should also be a "streamer" show.
- There is the London ‘Elvis Evolution’ event where you’ll be able to go into virtual rooms that Elvis was in and interact with all of it.
- The whole thing is that in this world of such quick change, where movies and music are all so disposable, Elvis is one of the few things from 70 years ago that is still incredibly relevant.
Elvis was a revolutionary.
- So fans should “spread the gospel of Elvis”.
- Elvis always respected his neighbours even he might disagree with them. So please ignore the bad social media, respect your neighbours. Ask yourself, "What would Elvis do?"
-
So we are all going to keep going to Elevate Elvis’ legacy and keep thinking ‘What would Elvis want, what would Elvis do?’ EIN Note: photo shows Joel Weinshanker with Lisa Marie in 2018 (News, Source;EPE/ElvisInfoNet)
(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)
"That's All Right" 70 Anniversary Spotlight: Seventy years ago today Elvis Presley would walk into 706 Union Avenue and by the end of the evening his recording of 'That's All Right' would change the course of music history.
Elvis author Tony Plews' 'Walk A Lonely Street' is a unique book that tells the tale of Elvis Presley’s rise to fame and presented as a series of consecutive short stories, it offers a new perspective on Presley’s musical and cultural achievements.
Every Elvis biography has, of course, described the recording of “That's All Right” but none have really captured that special day in such a cool, inspiring, involving and natural way.
In 'Walk A Lonely Street' it’s as if Tony Plews was actually there watching... On this 70th anniversary every Elvis fan should read this fabulous spotlight about 'That's All Right'.
(Spotlight, Source;TonyPlews/EIN)
'Elvis: Stateline SAHARA '74' FTD In-Depth Review:'ELVIS: Stateline Sahara 1974 Lake Tahoe' released as a 3-CD 5” digi-pak
features three previously unreleased performances from Elvis' third
Lake Tahoe season -
May 19 (Evening show), May 20 (Midnight show) and May 25 (Midnight show).
Just two weeks before this Lake Tahoe season Elvis had been playing to audiences of over 18 thousand at the Los Angeles Forum, so it is understandable if Elvis sounds a little more on ‘cruise-control’ but being less O-T-T is also a positive in that they sound more intimate.
'The Blue Hawaii Sessions' Box-Set FTD In-Depth Review: Released last month, 'The Blue Hawaii Sessions' was the eleventh in FTD’s “complete sessions” packages. This is the audio-set that was released earlier as part of 'The Making Of Blue Hawaii'. The 8 inch deluxe 4-CD package includes the complete sessions "newly-mixed from the original 3-track tapes", a 24-page booklet with informative flashbacks from musicians, songwriters, session data, memorabilia and global chart information.
The set includes 50 'officially previously unreleased' session outtakes. However most of these have to be 'False-Starts'.
There is however over four hours of Polynesian influenced material to enjoy and lots of studio banter to eavesdrop on. The set also includes all twenty-nine takes of Elvis' classic chart-topper Can’t Help Falling In Love.
'ELVIS: At 3am Sahara Tahoe 1973' MRS CD Review: This Deluxe 2CD set features two shows from Elvis’ May 1973 engagement at The Sahara Tahoe in Lake Tahoe, Nevada. Included is a rare 3am charity performance as well as the midnight show from the previous night. Both shows for the first time are presented in stereo.
The accompanying booklet includes memorabilia and rare photos along with liner notes that set the scene.
Despite having to perform three concerts in the one evening, Elvis was feeling inspired and although it was 3am he still treated the ‘Mother’s Day’ benefit more like a Closing Night performance. Elvis was in extremely jovial spirits, teasing the band and adding some crazy lyrics. He also added unique live versions of ‘My Way’, ‘Faded Love’, ‘Funny How Time Slips Away’ and a rare ‘It’s Over’.
With the cassette hiss removed, the musicians and backing-vocals in stereo and Elvis’ vocal raised to the correct level, this MRS release sounds just like an RCA recorded multi-track and is the best representation of the “real Elvis” live in 1973 that fans could hope for. Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley checks out a sensational STEREO Elvis double-pack. (CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
Book Review 'The King and The Jester': Elvis author Paul Belard's new "special interest" book all about Elvis and manager Col Parker is out now.
The cover notes, "As this uncultured philistine said of himself, "I did not know what to make of Elvis, or his music. I did not care, but I saw the reaction of the audience says and it was enough for me".Parker promptly realised that Elvis was his own ticket to wealth."
Belard's new 260 page book's twenty three chapters include, 'The Hank Snow Affair', 'The Snowman', 'The Lost Years', 'The Narcissist', 'World Wide Tour', 'What Could Have Been' and 'Exposing The Con Man'.
The author makes his disdain for Parker known from the outset and he does not hold back about what he sees as one of, if not the biggest, travesties and examples of unscrupulous mismanagement, in show business history!
The book is a very strong read and one that is very much a counterpoint to the recently published "rose colored glasses" account, 'Elvis and the Colonel: An Insider's Look At The Most Legendary Partnership In Show Business', by Parker employee Greg McDonald and Marshall Terrill.
Some fans have suggested that Baz Luhrmann’s 2022 ELVIS drama made Parker out to be too much of a cartoon villain but after reading this book the movie looks even more truthful than fans might have believed. ... Go here and read EIN's detailed review by glimmer twins Nigel Patterson and Piers Beagley (Book Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
'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)
(Film Review) Priscilla – film by Sofia Coppola: While Baz Luhrmann’s major hit film in 2022, Elvis, was a colorful narrative and frenetic musical explosion, in 2023, Sofia Coppola’s, Priscilla, is more subdued, but still a colorfully hued and musically expressive story.
Coppola is an acclaimed filmmaker and director. Thematically, her films explore themes of identity, isolation, and the complexities of human relationships, and these underscore, Priscilla.
EIN’s Nigel Patterson recently watched the film that has divided the Elvis world.
Now updated with EIN READER comments...
We have had plenty of general negative feedback but also some lengthy and rather interesting discussions on the film.. EIN is also interested in hearing YOUR comments on the movie. (Film Review, Source:ElvisInformationNetwork)
UPDATED- CD Review 'The Joan Deary Tapes Vol1' - and has Ernst won the war?’: Two years ago EIN posted an article suggesting that the Elvis bootleg era was over, that FTD and Ernst Jorgensen had truly won the war.
So it was a surprise to many that a new bootleg label ‘Joan Deary Inc’ suddenly popped up two months ago promising a very similar series of releases to the Madison ‘A Legendary Performer’ set.
They promised "Unique content... with never issued before outtakes. Some very different mixes among other glorious sounding tracks. Every track comes in great sound quality and has been remastered for optimal listening pleasure..."
EIN was suspicious from the start - to be honest I saw no need to purchase this CD - but several EIN readers wanted to know more before they put down their hard earned cash. Go here as EIN's Piers Beagley investigates to see if there is life in this new series of Elvis bootleg releases... Please read this before ordering we've done the work so that you don't have to! Now UPDATED with YOUR comments (CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
Don't miss out on one of EIN's most-viewed and controversial interviews of all-time - Mike Stone tells all.
EIN Interview with Mike Stone: Mike Stone has had a long and successful career in athletics, in the entertainment business, as an author, sports instructor, bodyguard and personal fitness trainer.
Mike Stone was also a key figure in the emotional roller-coaster that described Elvis and Priscilla Presley's lives in the seventies. In this exclusive EIN interview Priscilla's ex-partner, karate champion and author talks about his amazing life, including... - Meeting Elvis and Priscilla
- Hawaii, Elvis and Karate
- Being Phil Spector's bodyguard
- Sitting next to John Lennon recording
- Priscilla and karate
- Fans blaming him for Elvis' marriage split-up
- Elvis putting a "Hit" out on him
- Finding peace in the Philippines
- His new autobiography
Don't forget that EIN's Elvis Facebook page regularly features fabulous RARE newly discovered photos of Elvis. This month EIN celebrates our 45,000 members! - including several of Elvis' own friends and colleagues So Elvis fans don't miss out on these rare and exciting photographs.
Now with over thousands of great photos, News and with more added every day – including YouTube footage.
Elvis LIVE Aug 23, 1969 Album Review + Elvis Concert Review 1969: ..."The atmosphere throughout the entire hotel was nail-bitingly electric! It is difficult for me to describe and paint a true portrait of attending in person this unique occasion - Elvis' Return to Splendor LIVE in 1969 - but I'll try my best. I want, and hope, you will understand the excitement of what has to be the pinnacle of Elvis' career to date!" Joan Gansky was lucky because not only was she in the audience for Elvis' TV musical renaissance of the '68 NBC Special but she also saw Elvis at his most dynamic - first at his August 22nd 1969 Midnight Show and then the following night at his August 23rd Dinner Show. Joan Gansky has written this insightful and emotional article for EIN in 2019, fifty years later, looking back at this special event from 1969 as well as providing her review of the new RCA vinyl album of the August 23rd Dinner Show. One of EIN's most important articles we have ever published- Go here for Joan and Paul Gansky's incredible articles and exclusive photos
(Review/Spotlight, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)
'What was Elvis searching for?' EIN Spotlight: The question is raised – but never answered – in the title of HBO’s recent absorbing, imperfect documentary 'Elvis Presley: The Searcher'.
At the start it seems clear what the teenage Elvis was searching for – an escape from the oblivion of poverty in the American South. Yet his quest was cultural as well as financial.
Later Elvis read obsessively, seeking out such books as The Impersonal Life, Joseph Brenner’s guide to self-discovery and Kahil Gibran’s book of fables, The Prophet. In his copy of Gibran’s tome, Elvis jotted down the line: “A singer can sing his songs but he must have an ear to receive the song”.
So what exactly was Elvis searching for? In this fascinating EIN Spotlight respected author Paul Simpson takes a close look at this all important question which, for some reason, was basically ignored in the recent HBO documentary..
Mindi Miller Interview with EIN: Mindi Miller was a working actress when she met Elvis in early 1975. She was interested in karate (she performed all her own movie stunts), exploring spirituality and the Bible and so they had a lot in common. Mindi Miller and Elvis bonded over their common interests and soon afterwards he asked her to go on tour with him in April 1975.
She stayed friends with Elvis through the years - along with members of the 'Memphis Mafia' - and attended his funeral.
EIN's Sanja Meegin recently caught up with Mindi Miller to talk about her close friendship with Elvis over the years.
In this fascinating interview she discusses. . . - Her first night with Elvis
- How Elvis persuaded her to cancel her overseas movie & modelling plans
- Their mutual interest in Karate
- Graceland and meeting Lisa Marie
- Attending Elvis' funeral . . . and much much more... Go here for EIN's Sanja Meegin and her intimate and detailed discussion with the delightful Mindi Miller - Now with Reader Feedback.
'Marty Lacker: A Life Well-Lived' & Elvis at American Studio's Interview: It was with immense sadness that last month EIN had to report on the death of our great friend - and a true friend to Elvis - Marty Lacker. We will miss him dearly. Marty is well-known as one of the key members of the Memphis Mafia and also co-Best Man at Elvis' wedding. He was known for both his honesty and being forthright with his opinions. He was the only member of the Memphis Mafia who still watched and commented on recent Elvis News. He had no issue with holding people to account (especially ones who would inflate their importance within Elvis' legacy) and would regularly ask EIN to add his comments or to correct any inaccuracy. Elvis fans often ask about Marty Lacker's background, how he came to meet Elvis, as well as his involvement in the music industry outside of working for The King.
As a prelude to Ken Sharp's fascinating interview with Marty Lacker and a discussion about Elvis' famous American Studio' Memphis sessions, EIN presents "Marty Lacker: a life well-lived" in which Marty tells of his life in the music industry, his friendship with Elvis along with his dislike of the over-controlling Col Parker. Go here to learn all you need to know about Marty Lacker as well as Elvis outstanding Memphis American Sound sessions in 1969. (Spotlight; Source,KenSharp/ElvisInformationNetwork)
'The World of FTD' In-Depth Review: The new deluxe book 'The World Of FTD' has been received by some lucky fans and Elvis collector Mike Lodge has provided EIN with a very detailed review - of well over 3 thousand words! The book was authored and designed by Keith Flynn with input from a large number of other Elvis specialists including EIN's Piers Beagley, EM&HM's Trevor Cajiao, Geoffrey McDonnell, Gordon Minto and many others. It is 1,200 pages, hardbound three book set, chronicling every release by FTD.The book also features 100s of high-quality photos from the collection Erik Lorentzen
KJ Consulting are proud to publish this Box Set which weighs 8 kilos.
Paul Dowling EIN Interview Part Three: Paul Dowling is without doubt one of the major names in the Elvis World. He started collecting and selling Elvis vinyl over 40 years ago and has one of the world's largest Elvis Presley record collections. He started his "WorldWide Elvis" shop back in the seventies, way before the internet, where fans could get hold of rare Elvis records and memorabilia.
With such a fascination with Elvis, Dowling not only became a big name in the early years of Elvis bootlegs but later became friends with Ernst Jorgensen and helped RCA with various official releases.
In the final part of our fascinating interview Paul Dowling discusses .... - Dodging the FBI agents that were sent after him
- Unreleased Elvis material that still hasn’t come out
- Why does Ernst Jorgensen doubt this claims
- His BMG project 'For The First Time Ever' - what happened
- The true story of obtaining the Million Dollar Quartet tape
- His thoughts on Paul Lichter, Sean Saver, Sherif Hanna, Rex Martin
- Spending time with Alan Fortas
- Jim Curtin, newly added story
'Ultimate Elvis' New Electronic Edition: Announced by Elvis sessions expert Keith Flynn for publication November 1 is the brand new concept of the 1750 page super-deluxe Elvis sessions book 'Ultimate Elvis' Electronic Edition.
This incredible three volume book will now be available as an e-book on an i-pad or android tablet. - Created in HTML5
Fully updated e-books will open in any web browser on any operating system, so no need for separate downloads for different operating systems. - Life-Like 'Flipping' Pages
Flip through pages as if you are reading an actual book, but also being able to zoom-in to view smaller images and captions.
- View as Double or Single pages
View as double pages on a computer or laptop etc, and single pages when viewing in portrait on an i-pad or Android tablet. - Fully Navigational Table Of Contents
Jump back and forth to the sections of the books you want to read, instead of flipping through numerous pages to find what you want. PRICED AT - all 3 Volumes for £60 = US$93
On sale from November 1st 2015. Try Before You Buy -
Download free zip-file containing 27 pages from Volume 1, before you decide to buy the complete set. -
NOTE - These books are MASSIVE so you will need approximately 1GB of spare disc space for these three volumes, -
Click HERE to Keith Flynn's 'Ultimate Elvis' Electronic Edition to try.
Go HERE to EIN's independent review of 'Ultimate Elvis' (News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)
Did Elvis Record 'Tiger Man' At Sun?: A question that has puzzled Elvis fans through the years is whether he actually recorded the song ‘Tiger Man’ during his years at SUN studios.
The basic question is why did Elvis refer to 'Tiger man' several times in concert as “The second song that I ever recorded, not too many people heard it”?
And if Elvis DID record it, then why hasn’t any reference to it at SUN or proof of its existence been found?
Elvis would first perform ‘Tiger Man’ in concert at his first 1969 Las Vegas International season and would continue playing it through the years – usually in a medley with Mystery Train - until his last performance at Saginaw on May 3 1977. He would sing it over 150 times on stage! The thought that there might be an acetate or undiscovered tape of Elvis at SUN singing ‘Tiger Man’ is a mouth-watering concept - but is it an unlikely fantasy or strong possibility?
Go here to our detailed 'TIGER MAN' spotlight as EIN's Piers Beagley puts in the hard yards to check the facts from the fantasy . (Spotlight; Source;ElvisInfoNetwork)
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EIN is a not-for-profit Elvis Fan Club website posting daily news and informative articles for Elvis Presley's legion of fans.
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If you believe we have used copyrighted material please contact us and we will remove it immediately.
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The printed newsletters have extra content, articles and reviews to this website along with the popular Elvis EIN Mega Quiz.
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