The latest on www.elvisinfonet.com:

Lisa Presley's World Bill Burk's Elvis World Online

FTD Shop Charmaine's "Elvis Graphics"

Buyer Beware!: On 23 April (see story below) we reported that BMG Special Products in the US is issuing the Camden albums, Elvis Sings Flaming Star and Almost In Love. The release date has slipped to sometime in May and both are available online from amazon for under US$10.00. However, we have been advised the albums are being sold by a number of Elvis dealers for up to US$30.00! (News, Source: Amber Smith)

The 'fatal flaw' in the Bill Beeny DNA evidence: Tomorrow, EIN will publish a substantial article about the DNA tests supporting the contention that Elvis did not die in 1977, and other issues around the 'Is Elvis Alive?' conspiracy story. Conducted with the assistance of a licensed investigation company, our findings expose the 'fatal flaw' in the DNA tests! (Source: EIN)

"Elvis" TV mini-series for DVD release in Japan: Last year's CBS television movie "ELVIS" will be released on DVD on May 11, 2007 in Japan. (News, Source: Elvis World Japan/Elvis News)

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #82: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Man on edge of reality need to be "saved'" (Source: EIN)

Elvis Presley In Concert tour "downunder" now official: As EIN reported on 22 April (see below, both 22 & 26 April), Elvis Presley In Concert, formerly known as Elvis-The Concert, will tour in Australia and New Zealand in October 2006. EPE says: The name change is for marketing purposes - to distinguish it better from impersonator shows and to clarify that it stars (via video) the real Elvis Presley. It was decided that using both Elvis's first and last names would give the show a stronger identity. The new name often will be accompanied by the tag line The New Concert Tour.

EPE net profit revealed: According to Forbes magazine, Elvis earned $US45 million ($A59 million) in 2004. Mr Sillerman has since boosted his income by $US5.5 million with the release of a two-hour television and DVD documentary. What Forbes magazine doesn't reveal, but Mr Sillerman's annual reports do, is that the Presley business has expenses (in 2005) of $40 million, meaning Elvis only cleared $US10.5 million last year. (News/Sale of EPE, Source: The Age)

The Remix Singles Collection: Currently listed on eBay is this attractive looking 10 CD remix singles set released in 2005 and available for a very short time. Each CD was numbered and limited to 1000 copies. CD 1: Crying In The Chapel (reggae mix) – In The Ghetto (reggae mix) CD 2: Viva Las Vegas (Ibiza mix) – Extended mix – original version – alternate version CD 3: Bossa Nova Baby (extended version) – original version – alternate version CD 4: Way Down (guitar mix) – Extended Guitar mix – original version – alternate version CD 5: Burning Love (techno mix) – Extended Techno mix – original version – alternate version CD 6: It’s Only Love (extended version) – Original version – alternate version CD 7: Night Life – Original version – Alternate version CD 8: Rubberneckin’ 2002mix – Groove Mix – Jason Nevins mix – Pink vs Elvis CD 9: A Little Less Conversation (Eminem mix) – M/A/R/R/S mix – original version – instrumental version CD 10: Born To Rock – extended version – instrumental version (News, Source: Elvis News)

New BMG promo CD: Currently on ebay is this new BMG ten track promotional CD entirled "Today's Elvis Mix 2006". It has the words : “Not For Sale” printed on the back and frontcover and on the CD. The CD itself is black on front and back instead of silver. Track listing: Fairytale / Green, Green Grass Of Home, I Can't Help / An I Love You So / Susan When She Tried / T.R.O.U.B.L.E. / Woman Without Love / Shake A Hand / Bringin' It Back / Pieces Of My Life. (News, Source: Elvis News)

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #81: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Man who stranger in own home town got big problem" (Source: EIN)

Sid Shaw critical of EIN report - responds with article on legal battle: On 18 April 2006 we published news of concern and actions being taken by ETAs in the light of news reports that Robert Sillerman may be moving to licence or regulate ETAs. Sid Shaw who operates Elvisly Yours in the UK believes we misrepresented his legal battle with EPE. In his latest Elvisly Yours Cyberclub newsletter, Sid provides an illuminating account of his 'David & Goliath' legal battle with EPE (click above to read). (Spotlight, Source: Sid Shaw)

Rivaling Goldman: "Elvis Through My Eyes" - Book Review: Earlier this year there was a tirade of online messages and opinion decrying this new book by Heart Lanier Shapre as told to her by Jimmy Denson. As a result of all the negative publicity, online sales of the book spiked as fans wanted to find out what all the fuss was about. At the time of the outcry, EIN had a copy of the book coming by 'slow boat from China'. Having now arrived, EIN's Nigel Patterson spent a sunny Sunday sipping boat drinks and being alternately riveted to the page and repulsed by a book which rivals the despised Albert Goldman biography in its senstationally revisionist account of the Elvis story. Venture inside a dark fairytale with EIN as our review explores the world of the Lauderdale Courts 'Forrest Gump', a genetically babyfied male requiring daily protection from the oppression of life around him...and, if you believe the story, luckily the Denson brothers were there to provide it. (Book Review, Source: EIN)

New Tunzi book looks at Hawaii 61: Coming this Summer from JAT Publishing is 'Elvis Hawaii 61' featuring the U.S.S. Airizona Benefit Show with over 130 black and white and color photos, many unpublished, informative text, with a special Bonus CD and more. For updates visit the JAT Publishing website at www.jatpublishing.com. (News, Source: JAT Publishing/FECC)

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #80: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Case where he's your uncle not your dad raise serious questions of your mother" (Source: EIN)

Graceland and tornadoes!: When the tornadoes hit the mid-south of America earlier this month, Elvis World publisher, Bill E. Burk sent out this message. It provides a very interesting history of twisters in the Mississippi-Tennessee area, Bill's theory on why twisters never touch the center of Memphis, and an indication of how close they have come to Graceland. (Source: Bill Burk's Elvis World Online)

Sillerman has no control over ETAs outside the US: According to a report on MSNBC, 'Robert Sillerman has no control over Elvis impersonators in foreign countries. His new rule only applies to the US ones'. (Sale of EPE/Almost Elvis/News, Source: Amber Smith)

Ronnie Tutt interview: Elvis Brazil has published their interview with drumming legend, Ronnie Tutt. In his very interesting interview Ronnie talks about Elvis' live performances, studio recording, the TCB Band's recent album, recording 24 songs in German, and mentions there will be a DVD release of 'Elvis The Concert 25th Anniversary' from the Pyramid in Memphis. Elvis Brazil also has an interview with Elvis' bass player, Jerry Scheff. (News, Source: Amber Smith/Charmaine Voisine/Elvis Brazil)

Interesting Elvis and Dolly Parton facts: On the Elvis Number Ones board Ian Anderson posted these facts which are timely with the current Elvis and Dolly Parton Tennessee road trip commercial:

• Chandler Ehrlich creative staff reviewed 13 Elvis films – over 20 hours of film to find the 10-second scene needed for the commercial. They also reviewed hundreds of photos and materials from the archives of Elvis Presley Enterprises. It took approximately 6 months to make all of the arrangements to produce the commercial.
• Dolly’s wardrobe in the commercial was designed as a tribute to Elvis.
• Clambake was filmed in 1967. The car used in the commercial is a customized 1967 Corvette Stingray convertible.
• The music for the commercial was scored to fit the classic 50’s style of Elvis.
• Dolly’s scene was filmed in Knoxville, Tennessee; the original music was written and recorded in Memphis; the editing and special effects were produced in Nashville. Elvis is known for living in West Tennessee (Memphis) and recording in Nashville. His Clambake album was recorded at Music Row’s Studio B. Dolly is known for performing and recording in Nashville and living in East Tennessee (Pigeon Forge) near Dollywood.
• In preparation of the commercial every detail in the 10-second scene had to be studied so that Dolly could be inserted into the car with Elvis seamlessly - countless hours studying camera positions/angles/locations, lighting to match exactly with the 1967 lighting, location of Dolly in the car, her reaction to Elvis in the car, creating wind to blow her hair the same as Elvis’, creating reflections of Tennessee landscape on the car hood, and development of sound effects to compliment the action in the scene.
• Dolly Parton has 25 number one country singles, 55 top ten country hits and eight top 40 pop hits. She has earned 25 gold, platinum and double platinum records and sold over 100 million records in total. She has 41 top 10 country albums – more than any other artist has achieved. She has won seven Grammy Awards, 10 Country Music Association Awards, and five Academy of Country Music Awards. She has two Oscar nominations and has been nominated five times for Golden Globe Awards.
• Elvis Presley has had 18 number one singles, 40 top ten singles, 114 top 40 singles, 10 number one albums and 27 top ten albums on the pop charts, along with outstanding success on the R&B singles chart and country singles and albums charts. His American sales have earned him gold, platinum or multi-platinum awards for 150 different albums and singles. Globally, he has sold over one billion records, more than any other artist. He starred in 33 successful films, made history with his television guest appearances and specials, and triumphed on the concert stage. Elvis received 14 Grammy nominations – his three wins for gospel recordings. He received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award at age 36. Elvis has been honored with induction into the Rock and Roll, Country Music and Gospel Halls of Fame – the only artist to date so recognized by all three. Graceland, his home in Memphis, has been designated a National Historical Landmark. (News, Source: Ian Anderson, ElvisNumberOne Bulletin Board)

Elvis type sunglasses: If you are interested in a pair of sunglasses like Elvis wore in the 1970s (Italian design, Neo Naumatic, 66mm size) contact Graig Waite or buy online at ebay (user name: rockinrollking). The glasses are available in Bronze, Light Blue, Rose and Smoke colors. (News, Source: Charmaine Voisine)

Priscilla Presley working on new film: Priscilla Presley is working with the creator of Sex and the City, Darren Star, on a remake of the classic Peter Sellers film, The Party. (News, Source: Contact Music)

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #79: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Man who sing of money honey must be in a very sticky situation" (Source: EIN)

'Love Me Tender' 50th Anniversary Edition - DVD Review: For the very first time an original Elvis film has been given the special edition treatment on DVD. It has added audio commentary by Jerry Schilling, plus three new featurettes, as well as including Alanna Nash's fascinating insights on The Colonel. It also features the trailer snippet of Elvis singing the sought-after missing song 'Lonely Man' - so is this at last a worthy upgrade? EIN contributor Harley Payette reveals all in this in-depth review. (DVD Review, Source: EIN)

'Elvis Presley In Concert' booked for Melbourne, Australia on 14 October 2006: While we wait for official announcement, more information is filtering out about the upcoming tour of 'Elvis Presley In Concert' in Australia and New Zealand. The Melbourne date is Saturday 14 October. See earlier stories below dated 22 & 23 April (News, Source: Alexander Attard)

'Elvis Week' & 'Elvis Birthday Celebration' dates to 2010: (News, Source: EPE)

Watch the Elvis and Dolly Parton Road Trip through Tennessee TV Commercial

Cover artwork 'Return To Splendour 2006" DVD: This is the cover for the 2006 Memory Records/DragonHeart Productions re-release of the "Return To Splendour" DVD. The DVD features 8 mm footage, 10 songs with lip-sync audio, and Elvis' live concert from August 11, 1972 in 5.1 surround sound. (News, Source: Czech Elvis Presley Fanclub / Elvis News)

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #78: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Lonely man get mess of blues playing for keeps with witchcraft" (Source: EIN)

Best-selling albums of the 1950s: On the list of the Top 100 Best-Selling Albums of the 1950s, Elvis has five enties: #1: Elvis' Christmas Album; #20: Loving You; #21: Elvis Presley; #26: Elvis; #80: King Creole.  Frank Sinatra has the most entries in the list with 10 (ranging from #13 to #86).  (News, Source: The 100 Best Selling Albums of the 1950s, Charlotte Greig)

Elvis' road trip with Dolly Parton: As we reported on 23 April (see original story below) Elvis and Dolly Parton are taking a road trip together: 'They're both timeless music icons, and now through the magic of modern special effects, Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton are taking a "Tennessee Road Trip" in a new TV ad featuring two of the state's most renowned entertainers. Elvis and Dolly's road-tripping commercial comes by way of the Tennessee Department Of Tourism, and will air this summer to promote travel hot spots throughout the state.

To create the effect, Dolly was digitally transplanted into a scene from Elvis' 1967 film 'Clambake.' The updated scene has the pair driving along a highway with the top down. The commercial opens with Parton riding shotgun in a 1967 Corvette Stingray convertible, with the driver unseen. After a series of Tennessee tourist sites are pictured — Graceland and Beale Street, among them — Parton returns, and the driver is revealed.

"Let’s pick it up a little bit, honey. There’s all kinds of things to do in Tennessee," says Parton, who was filmed in Knoxville and then digitally placed in the car, "But next time, let’s take the pink Cadillac."

The spot signifies the first time Elvis has digitally appeared with another celebrity for a television commercial.

According to Dolly, the commercial was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. "Riding in a convertible with Elvis? What more could a girl ask for?" she gushed. "I am so proud of my Tennessee heritage, and I am thrilled and incredibly honored to be promoting our great state alongside the world's most legendary superstar."

Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen commented, "The idea behind the commercial is to bring together two international stars that symbolize Tennessee's unparalleled musical history. The commercial is a positive, energetic and unforgettable celebration of Tennessee's past, present and future."

Both superstars have famous tourist destinations that bring visitors to the state from all over the world -- Dolly's Smoky Mountain family amusement park, Dollywood, and the King's Graceland Estate, which was recently named a National Landmark.

The ad is also part of the new "Elvis Is" marketing and merchandise campaign. "When Elvis fans around the world see our branding online, in ads, on billboards and other places, they are thrilled that they can also find merchandise featuring those same designs," said Carol Butler, Director of Worldwide Licensing for Elvis Presley Enterprises'. (News, Source: Amber Smith/Elvis News)

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ETA crackdown talk sparks newspaper editorials: The potential move by Robert Sillerman to regulate or licence ETAs continues to occupy hard copy and online media news space. A number of newspaper editorials also have been devoted to the subject. The 'Daily News' in Australia included these clever words in its editorial on 20 April 2006:

Audubon Drive residence passes US$400,000 mark: With well known psychic, Uri Geller, in the bidding, the online sale of Elvis' former Audubon Drive home has passed $400,000.00. Uri Geller held the bid at $351,000 before several other bids came in. Geller, who lives in London, said he would increase his bid substantially. "If I was Bill Gates, I would bid as much as I can," Geller said. "But I also have my limits. Hopefully, though, I will be able to go up and up and up and get it. I have good faith." If successful, Geller, who met Presley in Las Vegas in the 1970s and owns a large collection of Elvis memorabilia, said he wants to turn the 3,000-square-foot (280-sq-metres) home into a museum with a twist.   "It will have all the bizarre things that Elvis Presley believed in," including his fascination with UFOs, Geller told Reuters. "He was ahead of his time." The auction closes on 14 May. (News, Source: ebay/Charmaine Voisine/ Reuters)

Elvis book prices soar: Prices for select Elvis book titles are enjoying boom times. Kathy Westmoreland's memoir, "Elvis and Kathy" got to $233.00 recently on ebay but failed to meet its reserve price, while second hand book dealers in the US have it listed as high as $450.00. The excellent academic examination of Elvis' film career, "Understanding Elvis: Southern Roots vs. Star Image" by Professor Susan Doll is stocked at between $88.00 and $110.00. "Elvis: His Love for Gospel Music and JD Sumner" is stocked by dealers for between $82.00 and $215.00. Meanwhile the much sought after photobook releases by Ger Rijff and Joseph Tunzi continue to sell at auction for between $35.00 and $90.00. (News, Source: EIN)

Click to hear the new tribute song from Doug "The Voice of Elvis" Church:

"I'll Always Be With You"

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #76: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Man on long lonely highway should take next exit" (Source: EIN)

EPE, please take 'Elvis Presley In Concert' to South America!: EIN broke the news yesterday that 'Elvis Presley In Concert' is touring Australia and New Zealand in October (see 22 April below). Sean Ryan on the FECC board has made a long overdue suggestion, why not take the video show to South America. Countries like Argentina, Brazil and Chile have large, avid Elvis followings. This idea has the potential to be a winner for the promoters of the show as its novelty is wearing off in western countries who have already seen it. (News, Source: FECC)

BMG Special Products to release Camden albums: BMG Special products will release Elvis Sings Flaming Star and Almost In Love on CD in the USA on April 25, 2006. The albums were originally released by RCA Camden. Amazon has botyh for US6.99 (not including p&h - click on above titles to order).

'Almost In Love' Track Listing: Almost In Love, Long Legged Girl ( With The Short Dress On), Edge Of Reality, My Little Friend, Little Less Conversation, A, Rubberneckin', Clean Up Your Own Back Yard, U.S. Male, Charro, Stay Away Joe (take 17) (News, Source: Amazon/Elvis Australia)

'Double Trouble' book announced: ElvisMatters will release their next book, entitled “Double Trouble”, on December 1, 2006. The book tells the true story behind the movie, and focuses on interviews with co-stars, a ton of pictures, news paper clippings, facts and figures. In the movie, Elvis (Guy Lambert) visits Belgium – Bruges, Antwerp, Damme – and the UK (London). (News, Source: Elvis Matters /Elvis News)

Cover artwork - John Wilkinson book: Here is the cover artwork for 'My life before, during and after Elvis Presley' (see original story below dated 21 April). (News, Source: Charmaine Voisine)

Dolly Parton going on road trip with The King: Dolly Parton is going on a road trip this spring through Tennessee with Elvis.  See the preview on Entertainment Tonight on 24 April. (News, Source: Amber Smith)

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #75: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Man who live in house of sand got real problem when tide comes in" (Source: EIN)

'Elvis Presley In Concert' to tour Australia & New Zealand: Elvis Presley In Concert, formerly known as Elvis-The Concert, will tour in Australia and New Zealand in October 2006. The name change is for marketing purposes - to distinguish it better from impersonator shows and to clarify that it stars (via video) the real Elvis Presley. It was decided that using both Elvis's first and last names would give the show a stronger identity. The new name often will be accompanied by the tag line The New Concert Tour.

The show will have a dynamic song program similar to that of previous tours, although adjustments in repertoire do occur from tour to tour and production values of the presentation will get a real boost, including the use of Elvis footage camera loads not used on previous tours. Also, for the first time, the show will be accompanied by an exhibit of Elvis costumes and other concert-related items from the Graceland archives. The exhibit will be in the lobby area of each venue and will not have an admission fee.

Original Elvis bandmates scheduled for this tour are: The TCB Band - James Burton (lead guitar), Glen D. Hardin (piano), Jerry Scheff (bass), and Ronnie Tutt (drums); Myrna Smith (vocals) of The Sweet Inspirations, Ed Enoch (vocals) of The Stamps and Joe Guercio (musical director & conductor). Joining Ms. Smith on female backing vocals will new cast members. Joining Mr. Enoch on male backing vocals will be members of his modern-day configuration of The Stamps.

Tickets are expected to go on sale in late June. In advance of the regular on-sale date, will be an advance sale of "golden circle" seats that offer the purchaser special considerations, including premium seating, a backstage reception to meet the cast and more. Details will be posted soon here in News on Elvis.com and on the official site for the show www.ElvisConcertTour.com, and we will spread the word via our free e-newsletters service. Confirmed show dates and venues will be announced sometime in the weeks ahead.

For this same October 2006 tour, efforts are being made to secure some show dates in the Far East. If this works out, information will be shared as soon as it is confirmed. Contrary to rumors on the Internet, there is not a sixth tour of Europe in the works. (News, Source: Bob Hayden/Joan Tillitzki/ EPE)

Marty Lacker selling VHS signed VHS copies of "All The King's Men" - great pre ebay offer: Prominent Memphis Mafia member and co-best man at Elvis' wedding, Marty Lacker sent EIN this message: "I have been cleaning out my closet and I have come across a box containing copies of the first volume of our video series  All The King's men.  These copies are special because they are signed by all 5 of us, Billy Smith, Red West, Lamar Fike, Sonny West and me, Marty Lacker. They initally were sold at a premium price by the distribution company but they sent each of us a number of copies.

"Elvis Presley's Memphis" to re-open on Beale Street: The restaurant once known as EP's Memphis will reopen on Beale Street late this summer, but operating under a distinctly different motif.   Jimmy Ishii has signed a 12-year lease with EPE and will open the place around late August. It is now being called by the working name of "EP - Delta Kitchen and Bar." Ishii and Tommy Boggs are the two best restaurateurs in Memphis and are partners in a couple of locations.  The musical direction of the club will switch from all-Elvis to music from several different genres, including Elvis.  Food-wise (which is where EW felt EPs-Memphis failed miserably), Ishii will go heavy on Southern cuisine, adding his own special touch.

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #74: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Man who riding the rainbow better watch out darkness not fall" (Source: EIN)

'Elvis Inspirational' - CD review: 'Elvis Inspirational' is part of Sony BMG's new "genre" series. Knowing just how awe-inspiring Elvis' spiritual music can be, EIN's Piers Beagley ultimately felt let-down after an Easter weekend's 'soul-searching' with our man. There were magical Elvis moments for certain but something wasn't quite right. (CD Review, Source: EIN)

Junkie XL hopes ghost of Elvis inspires more creative ideas: Renowned DJ and mixer of the massive worldwide hit single, 'Elvis vs JXL', Tom Holkenborg, explains why he rejected offers to remix more Elvis tracks and also tracks for The Beatles. Meanwhile, Junkie XL's latest album, 'Today', is available online from Amazon. Click to read EIN's interview with Junkie XL (News, Source: The Flint Journal/EIN)

Bread firm blames Elvis after profits heartbreak: FRIED peanut butter sandwiches are notorious as a prime ingredient in the demise of The King — so to use Elvis Presley to promote bread sales would seem to be a less than astute move on the part of Kingsmill. And now that the venture has not met dough expectations the company is blaming The King as this article tells. (News, Source: Times Online)

"Charro" DVD for sale through British fan club: The Official Elvis Presley Fan Club of Great Britain is offering "Charro" on DVD. No word on the video quality. A low quality DVD edition of Charro was first sold in the EC in 1998. (News, Source: Elvis News)

"Blue Elvis" portrait sells at auction? (see original story 16 April 2006 below): 8NewsEntertainment reports that Rolf Harris' 2002 'Blue Elvis' portrait apparently sold at auction on Wednesday night for STG51,000 ($A122,700). However, a second report, from Playful's.com indicates the artwork failed to reach its reserve price.

Also at the auction a school exercise book containing the "earliest thoughts" of John Lennon and a drawing of a walrus by the then 12- year-old future Beatle sold for 126,500 British pounds (226,000 dollars) at auction in London. But a fateful letter from Paul McCartney to Beatles bandmates Lennon, George Harrison and Ringo Starr failed to reach its 50,000 pounds reserve price. Some experts believe the letter, linked to a dispute between McCartney and the others over who would manage the group, was the final nail in the Beatles' coffin. (News, Source: 8NewsEntertainment/Playfuls.com)

Elvis Insiders LiveChat with Michelle Hovey: Members of EPE's 'Elvis Insiders' can log on to the members only Forum on Friday, April 21 at 4 PM CT for a LiveChat with Michelle Beaulieu Hovey. Michelle, who was instrumental in the Elvis by the Presleys project, met and became close to Elvis when he dated and married her sister, Priscilla. You can log on now to the Forum to post your questions for her in the LiveChat section of the forum. (News, Source: EPE)

New book on life of John Wilkinson: An American admirer has written a new book on the life of John Wilkinson. In "My life before, during and after Elvis Presley", author Nick Moretti talks about John's career. John R. Wilkinson might be best known as Elvis's '70s-era rhythm guitar player, but he has worked with several other singers and groups as well, including the Kingston Trio. The book is to be released next month. (News, Source: Elvis Matters /Elvis News)

'Elvis Close-Up' boxset on sale for US$9.98!: 'thenexte', on the FECC board has posted that the BMG Music Club has a 'clearance sale' of the 4CD boxset, 'Elvis Close-Up' for $9.98. With postage, taxes etc, total cost apparently comes to around $20.00 (still a great deal for members of the Club). (News, Source: FECC)

Kiwi Elvis impersonators "all shook up": Kiwi Elvis impersonators could be in for more of a lawsuit than a jumpsuit if the gyrating one's impersonators are outlawed by an American businessmen. News that a media entrepreneur, Robert Sillerman, has bought the rights to Elvis's name and likeness has impersonators across America all shook up. Last year, Sillerman took an 85 per cent stake in Elvis Presley Enterprises, and has since claimed that some clones have made the burning hunk o' love more of a laughing stock than the king of rock.

The news has rippled through New Zealand's tiny Elvis impersonator community, leaving some with suspicious minds. Brian Childs, a full-time Elvis impersonator and former policeman, is glad he has decided to move into real estate sales next month. When The Press spoke to Childs yesterday, the Wellington-based Elvis impersonator was performing at a fundraiser for Golden Bay High School. On hearing an American billionaire could be giving all Elvises the boot, Childs said he was extremely disappointed.

"Lisa-Marie and Priscilla could've done this years ago but they chose not to. They were keeping the name and the music alive. This is just a big commercial arrangement and I don't have the money to fight a billionaire. "In America, people can make a huge living out of impersonating Elvis. In New Zealand, it's more of a passion and a hobby."

Childs' act focuses on the 1968 to 1973 Elvis era, from the sleek black suits to the jewelled jumpsuit phase. Christchurch impersonators come in the form of odd-job Elvises and singing telegrams.

Occasional Elvis impersonator and Christchurch entertainer Pat Kearns said he was not too worried about the possible ban. He felt he was getting a bit long in the tooth for the likeness to be similar. "But from a distance the illusion is quite good," he said.

Kearns said the real King, with trademark accessories of dark glasses and rhinestone jumpsuits, made it easier to be impersonated because no matter how dissimilar their facial features, they could always be disguised. Court Jesters, a Christchurch theatre group who occasionally provide Elvis-shaped singing telegrams, were shocked by the notion of an Elvis ban. Manager Kirsty Gillespie said the idea was a nonsense. See related EIN stories on 18 & 19 April 2006 below (Almost Elvis/News, Source: stuff.co.nz)

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #73: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Man who needs change of habit shouldn't dress in nun's clothes" (Source: EIN)

Elvis and British comedian, Frankie Howerd: Fans of the late British comedian Frankie Howerd will get a unique insight into his colourful life this weekend when his home is opened to the public for the first time. Howerd's cottage, Wavering Down, was the venue for a host of parties with some of Hollywood's biggest stars in the 1970s. A pair of swords from the film Cleopatra were given to him by Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor. Two stone cats from his close friend Lord Olivier, stand by the fireplace. A painting of Elvis given by the King himself hangs on a wall, along with a picture the Queen Mother sent as a house warming gift. (News, Source: Automan on FECC board/The Independent Online)

DVD reissues in Australia: Several reissues of Elvis DVDs have been announced. The Kim Basinger movie, Elvis Has Left The Building is being reissued with a price reduction from 27 April. Also on 27 April, the 8 disc set, The Elvis Jukebox is reissued at a discounted price, to be followed on 15 May by a "revised" reissue of the biggest selling music DVD in Australia in 2002, The Definitive Elvis (8DVD) boxset. On 15 May Elvis: A 50th Anniversary Celebration and Rock Milestones - Elvis Presley The Rock 'N' Roll Years (previously issued as one of the 'Classic Albums' series). Then on 17 May, Elvis The Early Years (Universal). On 1 May Casey Kasem's Rock 'N' Roll Goldmine Elvis: The Echo Will Never Die is released in Australia. Also, for Aussie fans, many retail stores, including EzyDvd and K-Mart, are currently offering a number of Elvis films for below A$10.00. The titles include Roustabout, Jailhouse Rock, Spinout, Speedway, The Trouble With Girls, It Happened At The Worlds Fair and Harum Scarum. (News, Source: EzyDvd/K-Mart)

"Return To Splendour 2006" DVD release: The next DVD project from the Czech Memory Records label is the DVD "Return To Splendour 2006". This DVD is set for release at the end of April 2006.

The differences with the previous edition: This edition is NTSC. The new version is underlined by original Elvis music, making the commentary more efficient. This edition comes with bonus material; 10 concert recordings, digitally remastered and in lip synch. And as an audio bonus a full Elvis Las Vegas concert in 5.1 Dolby Surround. The DVD and cover contain beautiful pictures, kindly supplied by Keith Alverson. On the cover a completely new, never before published, photo by Keith. (News, Source: Czech Elvis Presley Fan Club /Elvis News)

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #72: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Any day now probably mean tomorrow never comes" (Source: EIN)

Law professor comments on possible move to register ETAs in Australia: Associate Professor of Law at Melbourne University, Andrew Kenyon, who specialises in copyright law, said it was unlikely unauthorised Elvis impersonators could be stopped in Australia. "The law's approach to protecting an image varies quite a lot between the UK, US and Australia,'' he said. "There is not a specific area of law that applies to it (in Australia). There might be certain registered intellectual property rights that could apply. There might be things like defamation. There might also be commercial actions related to passing off or deceptive conduct.
"If you could have a mix of those then that might apply." See related stories below and earlier story dated 18 April 2006 (Sale of EPE / Almost Elvis, Source: Amber Smith)

Elvis in All His Glory: Notecard Box: Now available from the Te Neues Publishing Company (ISBN: 3823847694) is this hardcover box featuring 20 Elvis notecards. Available to buy from Amazon (News, Source: Amazon)

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #71: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Man with woman always on his mind need change record" (Source: EIN)

ETA's ready to revolt against Sillerman (EIN Comment): Recent reports that Robert Sillerman may 'register' Elvis tribute artists (ETAs), has ETA's around the world ready to mobilise. In Australia, TV news reports today indicate ETAs are preparing a series of concerts in opposition to the perceived Sillerman move and annual Elvis festivals are seeking clarification on what is planned.

The offending statement was made in reference to his planned Las Vegas cabaret show based around Elvis. Sillerman said:

"If we were going to do a show that was based on Elvis impersonators, then obviously it wouldn't make sense to have unauthorised Elvis impersonators."

On the surface Sillerman's statement refers only to an EPE sponsored show, but the use of the word "unauthorised" raises the spectre of ETA's having to be approved by EPE if they want to go on performing. The $64,000 question (with a really easy answer) is whether any move to register ETAs is about ensuring quality performances or simply revenue raising? Obviously, Sillerman is looking for quick ways to recoup his substantial investment in the Elvis brand.

To ensure a better overall ETA performance will never work. The reality is the majority of ETAs work either on an irregular, casual basis or even an itinerant basis, and many come and go regularly from the marketplace. Only a small percentage manage to make a full-time living as an ETA.

The financial cost of administering a scheme to improve the ETA product simply won't work, even just in the US, and as many will be quick to state, this is not what the possible Sillerman move is arguably about. Not to mention, how do you decide what is in good taste, or professional, and what isn't?

With an estimated 30,000 ETAs worldwide, Sillerman will face a logistical and legal nightmare should registration be a real issue on his mind. The Elvis trademark is yet to be fully tested outside US borders (the EPE vs Elvisly Yours/Sid Shaw case in England was a mixed result). Perhaps, after nearly 30 years of unrestrained and variable performances by ETAs, they will be the focus for testing if the Elvis trademark is recognised globally as a legal right. (Sale of EPE/Almost Elvis, Source: EIN/ABC News/Various Others)

"One Night Only" from Madison label: Here is the covert art of the soon to be released ''One Night Only!''. Madison will present ''One Night Only!'' containing Elvis' inspired, one-time only Boston performance of November 10th, 1971. This show was previously released on disc in 1997 as '' The Power Of Shazam.'' Unfortunately, the sound quality left a lot to be desired, and diminished the impact of Elvis' tremendous effort that night. This is all about to change, as the Madison label managed to recently acquire a first-generation soundboard of Elvis' wild and rockin' night in the Boston Garden. The audio is excellent and will prove to be the best 1971 show ever released, period. The packaging will include a 16 page, illustrated booklet and relevant text.

"It's Elvis Time" reaches milestone: Congratulations to the Dutch fan club on reaching the 250th issue of its magazine. This is a great achievement. The 250th edition contains news, reviews of the latest releases, a "Loving You" pictorial and articles on Elvis' April 9, 1972 concert, Bad Nauheim and his "Tree Of Life". (News, Source: Elvis News)

Polish Elvis CD: On April 21, 2006 the Polish newspaper "Gazeta Wyborcza” will release the first CD in a series with legendary rock ’n ’roll hits. It will be called “Krol Elvis I Jego Dwor” which means “King Elvis and His Kingdom”.

Tracklist for the first CD: 1. BILL HALEY AND HIS COMETS (We're Gonna) Rock Around The Clock/2. CARL PERKINS Blue Suede Shoes/3. ELVIS PRESLEY That's All Right/4. CHUCK BERRY Maybellene/5. FATS DOMINO Blueberry Hill/6. JERRY LEE LEWIS Great Balls Of Fire/7. LITTLE RICHARD Lucille/8. WANDA JACKSON Fujiyama Mama/9. ELVIS PRESLEY Good Rockin' Tonight/10. FRANKIE AVALON Dede Dinah/11. PAT BOONE Speedy Gonzales/12. BRENDA LEE Dynamite/13. BUDDY HOLLY AND THE CRICKETS Peggy Sue/14. THE PLATTERS Only You (And You Alone)/15. GENE VINCENT Be-Bop-A-Lula/16. THE BEATLES Ain't She Sweet/17. ELVIS PRESLEY Blue Moon Of Kentucky/18. LULU AND THE LUVVERS Shout/19. CHUBBT CHECKER Let's Twist Again/20. LITTLE EVA The Loco-Motion/21. CARL MANN Mona Lisa/22. HELEN SHAPIRO Walkin' Back To Happiness/23. BILL HALEY AND HIS COMETS See You Later, Alligator/24. DANNY MIRROR I Remember Elvis Presley (News, Source: Elvis Rocks / Elvis News)

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #70: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Man who feel so bad may have fever" (Source: EIN)

Oscar winning actress Rachel Weisz loves Elvis!: Rachel Weisz who won the 2006 Best Supporting Actress award for her part in 'The Constant Gardener' makes no secret about her love of Elvis. Her heroes include Harry Houdini and Jackie Onassis but her greatest admiration is for Elvis. "I fell in love with him when I was a little girl. He was cute even when he was fat and wasted," she says. "He was the ultimate performer, in that nothing could get between him and his gift." Weisz's attitude to life also reflects Elvis' own generosity. Talking about the film adaptation of John Le Carre's novel 'The Constant Gardener' she says, "The message of the film is that if you can help one person, that's better than not doing anything." Weisz urges people to visit the movie's website ConstantGardenerTrust.org and help by donating money to improve living conditions in Kenya's slums. The charity has already built two schools and a bridge.

Rachel, together with director-fiancee Darren Aronofsky, is expecting her first child in May, EIN wishes them all the best. (News, Source: Piers Beagley EIN)

Clarke County resident got to meet and know Elvis Presley: Cindy Garrick says: "I was talking with one of my tax clients recently about a Scyrene resident being close friends with Elvis Presley. It's amazing, but this particular client, Robert Reid, just happened to serve in the military with Elvis. In fact he was one of 15,000 men who left Ft. Hood, Texas in September of 1958 with Elvis. There were three trains and no one knew which one Elvis was on, but they had a six hour layover in Memphis. There were people lined up on both sides of the trains. I'll bet that was the first time Mr. Reid was a bit afraid of a mob! Just think, Elvis was mobbed like that everywhere he went. So much company and yet so alone.

He remembered when stationed in the 1st MTB in Friedburg, Germany with Elvis, he and the other men in their unit were told to clip (not cut) the grass with the knives from their mess kits. Elvis called his contact and had a lawn mower sent into the compound at his expense. Mr. Reid had been in the unit for quite awhile and had been waiting for the company clerk job to open up. There had been a freeze on the position, but he would be the next in line for the coveted job. Finally he received notice that the job would open up and immediately put in for the position. However, it had only been opened so Elvis could have the job. He also said that Elvis was very nice to all the enlisted men and their families.

Mr. Reid admired the fact that Elvis took the time to sign autographs for everyone who asked him.

There was one time in Germany when Elvis had taken the company jeep sightseeing. The jeep broke down and Elvis paid the Germans to fix it. The Germans then called Mr. Reid to come retrieve the U.S. jeep". (News, Source: The Clarke County Democrat)

Elvis Golf Tournament: The 4th Annual Collingwood Elvis Festival Golf Tournament is set for Thursday, June 1 at the Cranberry Golf Resort & Conference Centre in Collingwood. Only 144 participants will have the chance to compete for a table of prizes that last year listed in the $600 to $1000 value range each, packed with high-end restaurant gift certificates, lifestyle products, golf attire and more. Register by May 1 to reserve your space.

Registration is set at $500 per team or $125 per person, and features a barbecue dinner, live entertainment, green fees, carts and a gift bag stuffed with swag that will meet any golfer's expectations. Soft spike shoes and dress code are in effect -- even for Elvis tribute artists. Sorry, guys.

Tribute artist Glenn Aitchison, the Early Years Non-Professional Champion at the 2005 Collingwood Elvis Festival, will perform during the dinner hour. While we can't say if Elvis himself enjoyed the great game of golf, the Collingwood area is famous for its golf courses and many people, including Elvis tribute artists from all over the area who love to golf. For more details call, (705) 445-1030, ext. 3279 or e-mail mfederer@collingwood.ca (News, Source: Mykawartha.com)

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #69: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Man all shook up lucky he not can of Pepsi" (Source: EIN)

'Elvis Country' - CD review: 'Elvis Country' is part of Sony BMG's new "genre" series. Elvis was always at his best when the lyrics reflected his own moods and this interesting selection captures the sadness, loneliness & regret he felt through his final years. Skilfully avoiding the repeat of recently released songs, if you are in the right mood then this is the best in BMG's new series. EIN pours out a “Water glass full of whiskey” and soaks in these country vibes. (CD Review, Source: EIN, April 2006)

Elvis Unlimited starts bidding on Elvis' Audubon Drive residence: Elvis Unlimited in te EC has registered the first bid on Elvis' former home on Audubon Drive in Memphis. The bidding stands at US$100,000 with the reserve price yet to be reached. (News, Source: ebay)

"Blue Elvis" artwork for sale to fund new Elvis play: The auction house, Cooper Owen, has listed an item by well known entertainer, Rolf Harris, on ebay. The description reads: "Elvis Presley, painting 'Blue Elvis' by Rolf Harris, 2002 oil on canvas. This painting was personally painted and given to a good friend of Harris', who is now selling it in order to raise funds to finance a stage show production called the Gospel According To Elvis. Rolf is completely happy with and endorses the sale of this painting for this purpose. Measures approx. 24 x 24 inch (61 x 61 cm) Please note due to recent regulations this lot is now subject to an additional 4% levy under the Artist's Resale Right/ Droit de Suite law. Contact auctions@cooperowen.com for further details. Upon bidding it will be deemed that you have read and fully understood Cooper Owen's Terms and Conditions and Summary of Charges. These can be found on ebay and Cooper Owen's website. Please note that all terms outlined on Cooper Owen's website take precedance". (News, Source: ebay)

Elvis, Lennon go head-to-head in 'The Frogs': Director Brian Matuszak's adaptation of the climatic duel between ancient Greek playwrights into a battle between Elvis Presley and John Lennon makes more sense than can be believed unless witnessed. In updating Aristophanes "The Frogs" at UWS's University Theatre, Matuszak ultimately demonstrates the enduring truth of the 2,400-year-old script. Ultimately, because the updating of the preceding material often sacrifices the playwright's point to laughs.

Dionysus (Cody Rider), god of drama and wine, disguises himself as Herakles and, with his slave, Xanthias (Chani Ninnemann), descends to Hades to bring back the greatest songwriter of the past, whose wit and wisdom can save humankind from self-destruction. The quest is hampered by a variety of obstacles, including dancing frogs, a manic 1980s ferryman, a troupe of disco-singing Initiates and Dean Martin (Joseph Effinger). Once in Hades, Dionysus discovers that he must judge which of its two contending denizens, Presley or Lennon, is likelier to be humanity's savior.

The digressions, even though they obscure the story, are marvelous fun, thanks to a talented cast, sharp writing and spectacular costumes by Micheal Barbee.

Definitely in the spirit of Aristophanes, the show is liberally laced with local and current allusions:

Dionysus: What's over there?

Xanthias: A lot of mud and darkness.

Dionysus: Oh! Proctor.

Former Mayor Gary Doty and President Bush take some hits, as do Mayor Herb Bergson and a local newspaper theater reviewer, among others.

Barbee's triumphs ranged from the frogs' fantasticgiant-footed jumpsuits to a dead-on little white halter-top dress for Marilyn Monroe (Susan Kusilek).

Modern deceased performers are substituted for names that were celebrities in
405 B.C. Greece but now are known only to obsessive scholars of antiquity. UWS's production includes Judy Garland (Jessica Gast) and Liberace (Nick Nyderek), as well as Presley (Eamon Hill), Lennon (Cory Regnier), and Martin and Monroe.

The show includes musical numbers, mostly rock 'n' roll, but also a duet by Gast and Effinger singing "Hades" to the tune of Stephen Foster's "Swanee," which was a particular hit with Thursday's audience. The big songs, though -- or snippets of big songs -- came during the great duel, as Presley and Lennon challenged each other to sing while the other analyzed and criticized the lyrics. Other than the songs themselves, the lines were as Aristophanes wrote them, with Lennon's scorn of Presley's dramatic staging in place of Euripides's derision of Aeschylus's bombastic style.

Hill and Regnier were both superb, the former in full white satin jumpsuit and cape, with a cartoonish black pompadour, and the latter with rose-tinted granny glasses and an authentic post-Ed Sullivan, pre-Yoko Ono Lennon hairdo. Hill was bluff and grumpy, Regnier snide and condescending. They pressed their arguments with conviction, though Regnier's Liverpool accent at times made Lennon's side of the debate difficult to follow.

On the other hand, though both are excellent singers, the best vocal work was when Regnier mockingly performed bits from some of Presley's biggest hits.

To find out who prevails, though, you'll have to see the show, or at least read the script, which wouldn't be nearly as much fun. (News, Source: Duluth News Tribune)

Elvis' ghost inhabited these boots in seance: Here is another one of those truly odd moments in the Elvis world. Now on ebay: "This is the last of my paranormal collection that I will be auctioning off. These leather boots belonged to me and were worn by me when I made contact with and channeled Elvis Presley's spirit during a seance back on August 16, 1997 (The 20th anniversary of his death). Everything seemed fine until my friend began asking Elvis's spirit about the wedding of his daughter and Michael Jackson. It was evident that Elvis didn't want to talk about it but the constant goading and joking by my friend caused Elvis to lash out and start Karate kicking him. After two minutes the link was broken and he was gone. I was not able to get his autograph, what the seance was intended for, and until I stopped doing seances in 1998 was never able to contact him again.

Please note, these boots were not Elvis Presley's when he was alive. I bought them new in 1996. They are leather, size 9.5D and made in the USA. I never wore them again after that seance so they still have the scuffs from Elvis Presley's spiritual rage. They have been stored for nearly a decade and are still in excellent condition. Imagine, the lucky winner will be the owner of something Elvis briefly wore after his death, and short presence in this world, before returning to the afterlife. If you are an Elvis collector then this would make a unique addition to your collection". (Odd Spot, Source: ebay)

New "limited edition" book featuring undiscovered Elvis photos: Specialist publisher, Genesis Publications, has announced an upcoming book, "Elvis Presley Limited Edition", featuring undiscovered Elvis photos. Anyone interested can register their interest online at the Genesis website. Be forewarned: Genesis titles are incredibly expensive, often costing more than 300 pounds UK. The pr for its Elvis book reads: "Mike McCartney and Lew Allen are behind the work on this exciting new project. Mike is the editor of this large format volume which features Lew Allen's superb photographs of Elvis. Remarkably, these images are previously undiscovered and the collection includes rare shots of Buddy Holly and The Everly Brothers. Lew's photographs were taken in 1956 on a 5"x4" large format camera and therefore the image quality is astounding". (News, Source: Amber Smith)

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #68: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Man with wooden heart need be careful...wrong wood for transplant cause splinter" (Source: EIN)

"Elvis & Kathy" on ebay: One of the rarest and most sought after Elvis books is again on ebay. Kathy Westmoreland's memoir reached new price heights in 2005 approaching US$200.00. In 2006 it has now exceeded US$200.00 with several days left for bidding. (News, Source: email - Only Myself)

What was Elvis' worst day as a performer?: What was Elvis' biggest failure as a performer? Was it his appearance at the Grand Ole Opry in 1955?.....No. Was it Las Vegas in 1956?.....No. EIN takes a look at a little known appearance which was Elvis' worst day on stage. (Spotlight Article, Source: EIN)

Dr Nick's memoir back on track: After years of silence, Dr. Nick (Nichopoulos) has decided to put his memoirs to paper. In a 10 chapter book, he tells the story of his first meeting with Elvis, and how he became to be the always-stand-by physician for the biggest celebrity in the world. Scheduled date of release: 2007. Although 77 years old, Dr. Nick still works at Fed-Ex in Memphis. EIN Note: Around 1990 Dr Nick offered a book synopsis/manuscript (written with Murray Silver), titled "Who Killed Elvis?", to a number of publishers without success. (News, Source: Elvis Matters /Elvis News/EIN)

FTD & Elvis' final Hayride show update: Andylon Lensen from the EPGold website has informed Elvis Express that:

"Ernst mentioned this to me 2 months ago; he did acquired an complete audio recording of Elvis' last performance on the Louisiana Hayride from December 15, 1956 in a reasonable sound quality. He also told me this complete show is round about 20-25 minutes in a total".

Lensen goes on to say that this particular concert was originally intended for release in 2005!
"Ernst also confirmed this show was first planned for the release of the Cd Presley by the Presley's, but because of problems getting the deal done with Joe Kent on some publishing or copyrights if I remember well, the deal was finalized later on and now will be released on a new project."

The song list from the concert is: 01. Heartbreak Hotel/02. Long Tall Sally/03. I Was The One/04. Love Me Tender/05. Don't Be Cruel/06. Love Me/07. I Got A Woman/08. When My Blue Moon Turns To Gold Again/09. Paralyzed/10. Hound Dog". (News, Source: EP Gold/Elvis Express)

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #67: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Man who forgot to remember to forget needs alarm clock" (Source: EIN)

"Prince From Another Planet" DVD: A new import DVD called "Prince From Another Planet" has been released. The DVD comes in digi-pack format and contains 8 mm footage from Elvis at Madison Square Garden in 1972 and as a bonus, the press conference from June 9, 1972. The running time is 66 minutes. (News, Source: EP Gold)

"Chain Reaction" DVD: Anoter new import DVD, "Chain Reaction" has been released. The DVD is in digi-pack format and contains 8 mm footage of Elvis from 1970 and 1971, and has a running time of 73 minutes. (News, Source: EP Gold)

"Live Memories 1970": A third new import DVD is "Live Memories 1970". Again in digi-pack format, this release contains 8 mm footage from 1970 and has a running time of 115 minutes. (News, Source: EP Gold)

"When America Was Rocked" DVD release: Here is a promo DVD for the Elvis episode "When America Was Rocked" from the History Channel series "10 Days That Unexpectedly Changed America". Ten documentaries by ten award-winning filmmakers, airing 4/9/06 - 4/13/06 . This region 1 DVD was sent as an advance copy for media buyers. There also is a 10 DVD box set that was sent out to the press. The DVDs will not be available in stores until this summer. SYNOPSIS: In this illuminating DVD set, explore each of the 10 most pivotal days in American history -- the massacre at Mystic, Shay's Rebellion, the gold rush, Antietam, the strike at Andrew Carnegie's mill, the assassination of President McKinley, the scopes trial, the birth of the nuclear age, the birth of rock n' roll, and the Civil Rights movement. (News, Source: Elvis News)

Bubba Ho-Tep prequel back on track: Don Coscarelli, director of the great little genre hybrid Bubba Ho-tep, has revealed that the oft-discussed sequel to that elderly-Elvis-vs.-a-mummy picture may be back on track. Bubba Nosferatu, a prequel to Bubba Ho-tep, seemed to be dead in the water after a series of setbacks, but now things are looking up for the Elvis/vampire tale. "I'm putting a big effort into doing Bubba Nosferatu now," Coscarelli tells Sci Fi Wire. "The project has a life of its own. ... People seem to want it. We just have to get it finished. The whole idea of Bubba Nosferatu was a joke." What the filmmaker means by that is that the idea of the sequel started with a throwaway end credit in Bubba Ho-tep that promised a follow-up film called Bubba Nosferatu: The Curse of the She-Vampire.

But the fanboys have made that film a reality now, it seems. Coscarelli is working on the script for the film with Joe R. Lansdale, who penned the original short story. The film will portray a younger, thirtysomething Elvis, and the director says that the original film's star Bruce Campbell "can't wait to put his Elvis jumpsuit back on again." And beyond that? Coscarelli hints that a third film isn't out of the question, and he even goes so far as to give it a name: Bubba Sasquatch. (News, Source: nowplayingmag)

Click to read EIN's review of "Bubba Ho-tep"

Elvis adventure to the North Pole: Three polar adventurers are preparing to walk and ski to the top of the world dressed as Elvis. Jonny Clayton, Alex Tate and Steve Goodair believe it will the first time Elvis impersonators have been spotted in the far reaches of the frozen Arctic. They are trekking 368 miles from Cornwallis Island, off Northern Canada, to the 1996 site of the Magnetic North Pole in their specially made Elvis style survival suits, complete with thermal insulation and rhinestones. The three friends are taking part in the 2006 Sony Polar Challenge race which starts at the weekend. (News/Odd Spot, Source:Yahoo News)

One-of-a-kind Elvis owned item for sale: Sandi Pichon sent us this message:

"Elvis The Concert" next tour update: There is speculation on various websites that the video show “Elvis The Concert” won’t return to Europe. Elvis Matters says this isn't true. After a tour in the Far East (first show on October 4th), the crew takes a break for a few months. After that, the super show most likely returns to Europe. The schedule for October is almost set, and details should be officially announced soon. (News, Source: Elvis Matters / Elvis News)

Bidding on Auduben Drive home starts on ebay today: The most serious Elvis Presley fans can lay their heads where The King once laid his own, by buying his old house in East Memphis. Elvis bought the 2,900-square-foot house at 1034 Audubon Drive in 1956 with the profits he earned from "Heartbreak Hotel." Nashville-based Honky Tonk Hall of Fame LLC is helping auction the property on eBay, with bidding beginning today.

Harassed by fans, Elvis bought Graceland 13 months later. Both homes have recently been added to the National Historic Register of Homes. Bidding on the online auction site will open later today on ebay and close on 14 May. (News, Source: Memphis Business Journal)

EPE licenses new Elvis credit card: Elvis Presley Enterprises has licensed a company to create an Elvis branded debit card. The Elvis Presley Prepaid Visa is being created by EDP Technologies Corp., based in Valley Village, Calif., and released by subsidiary EDP Licensing. The company says the Elvis card will be among the first celebrity-branded debit cards.

"We are excited to bring the Elvis legend to our innovative card product line and believe that this marks a milestone in the prepaid card industry," said EDP CEO Paul Cleveland in a statement.

EDP Licensing, EDebitPay and EDP Secure Deposit Card are wholly-owned subsidiaries of EDP Technologies Corp., a leading marketing group in the country. (News, Source: Memphis Business Journal)

No Elvis stamp for Belgium: Ever since 2003, various fan clubs are busy trying to get Elvis a Belgian stamp. But the Belgian Elvis Matters fan club received a ‘no’ from the Belgian Post Service. 2007 seemed to be an ideal year, but general director Frank Daniëls has just confirmed that Elvis is no longer in the running. (News, Source: Elvis Matters / Elvis News)

Dr Nick's son on Dutch TV: The Dutch TV show RTL-Boulevard airs an interview with Dean Nichopoulos tonight. (News, Source: EP Gold)

Linda Thompson joins Elvis hit making team this weekend: Tune in this Easter Friday April 14, 2006 to Donn Webb's "Cruisin' 66" Radio Show on KDSK.com for yet another super-cool live interview with singer John Krondes and Elvis Girlfriend Linda Thompson. Memory Lane TV & Radio Talk show host Joe Franklin of "The Joe Franklin Show" will join the Hit Team this week. Many Moons Ago, Joe Franklin had Elvis Presley on his TV Show with Ann Margaret; Joe was also one of the first DJs to play "The End" by John Krondes and The Jordanaires on US Radio. Donn Webb's Worldwide Broadcast will also be joined by Elvis Fan Club Presidents from all around the world. George Twamley, President of The Elvis Fan Club Of Ireland will call in support of the Elvis "Hit Making Team". Other Elvis World leaders Marcus Henfling from Germany and Jenny Dror from Israel will join the "Hit Team" cast Friday. Uptown Horns Saxophonist Arno Hecht who shared the rockin' solo on the new release "Baby I Love You" will join the group as well Friday.

On this special Easter Week show, USA Radio DJ Donn Webb talks about the miracle of the New Spirit Rising. This week as Christ is Risen on the most important Christian holiday, the spirit of Elvis rises as well to new heights along with his beloved "Hit Making Team" with John Krondes. By an unstoppable order from Rock 'n Roll Heaven, the music plays again and The Dream comes to life after 29 years of silence. For the first time since Elvis Presley died, fate has found literally all of the King's "Original" players back in place making new music with singer John Krondes and The Jordanaires. On this 29th Easter A.E. (After Elvis) prayers of music lovers have been answered; this awesome New Day begins with familiar sounding song and a new life for Elvis. Elvis Disciples from all around the world are putting their hands together and joining the Rock 'n Roll Mission of John Krondes and the Elvis "Hit Making Team" in "Keeping The Music Alive". (News, Source: PR Web)

Woman who helped clothe Elvis dies: Helen Cohn, who along with her husband helped clothe Elvis Presley, Roy Rogers and a host of stars in rhinestone creations during the height of cowboy chic, has died. She was 92. Helen Cohn died Friday at a hospital near her home in Valencia, her granddaughter, Jamie Nudie Mendoza, said Wednesday. From the 1940s through the 1960s, the now-closed Nudie's in North Hollywood was where singing cowboys, country singers such as Hank Williams and other celebrities went for their sparkly duds. 

A gold lame suit for Presley and an outfit embroidered with pills and marijuana leaves for singer Gram Parsons weren't even the gaudiest of Cohn's creations. 

Cohn and her husband, Nudie Cohn, were an inseparable business team until his death in 1984. She ran the business for another decade before retiring. She helped her husband sew outfits on a garage pingpong table in the early days and went on to handle the business end of Nudie's for 50 years, her granddaughter said. 

"She was the backbone to my grandfather,'' she said. "She ran the store.'' 

She also was the inspiration for the Nudie's logo, her granddaughter said: a naked cowgirl leaning against a fence, twirling a lasso whose coils spelled out the company name. According to family legend, the logo dates to one evening in the 1940s when she appeared before her husband wearing only a cowboy hat, boots and a holster. The cowgirl on the logo got clothes in the early 1960s, when Nudie Cohn converted to Christianity from Judaism. 

Helen Barbara Kruger met her future husband, a Ukrainian immigrant, at her mother's boarding house in Mankato, Minnesota.  They married and moved to New York City, where they opened Nudie's for the Ladies, selling G-strings and other outfits to showgirls and burlesque dancers in the 1930s. They later returned to Minnesota and ran a tailoring and dry-cleaning shop.  In the 1940s, after hitchhiking across the country several times, they settled in North Hollywood and began creating what would become the famous Nudie's suits.  (News, Source: AP Wire)

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #66: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Man who know she's not you must have had eyes fixed" (Source: EIN)

EPE's ShopElvis under fire: Continuing a series of messabeboard postings critical of the service provided by ShopElvis, RKSNASHVILLE posted this message on the FECC board:

"First off - I apologize if this is off topic, but many of you use shopelvis.com to purchase your FTD's. I pre-ordered the 2 new FTD's back in March. When I did my order over the internet I put in all my info - name, address, country, etc. In the country box it said Albania and it wouldn't let me change it.

So I called to tell them and they said back out and try again - so I did. It still said Albania on the screen but I figured maybe it changed on their end and surely they know Nashville, Tennesse is not in Albania. Last week my Credit card was billed when they we're shipped out. I still have not received them!

So I called to inquire. They said the FTD's we're shipped to Albania. I talked to a supervisor who told me he would call me back. He did and said he contacted UPS and they will try to track the package. It could be another 2 weeks! I asked if they would just send me another order of the FTD's and he said he couldn't do that.

Do I have any other options? In my opinion this is very poor service from shopelvis. Any thoughts? Thanks for any help" (News, Source: FECC)

Rev. Mother Dolores Hart returns to Hollywood: After 43 years in a monastery, Rev. Mother Dolores Hart, who co-starred with Elvis in Loving You and King Creole, has returned to Hollywood. In this interview, the Rev. Mother talks about a range of issues including why she left Hollywood, the mysterious illness she is now fighting, and of course, Elvis. (Interview, Source: San Jose Mercury News)

Sillerman buys marketing rights to Muhammad Ali: Robert Sillerman, whose CKX company owns marketing rights to the Elvis brand, Graceland operation and American Idol, has now acquired the rights to the likeness, name and image for Muhammad Ali. Muhammad Ali, the three-time heavyweight boxing champion who became the most famous athlete of his generation, won his biggest purse 25 years after retiring from the ring. The boxer, who retired in 1981, sold the rights to his likeness, name and image for $50 million to CKX Inc., which also controls Elvis Presley's music and mansion and produces the "American Idol'' television show.

"It may not be that it's been as commercially exploited as some of the modern names you might think of,'' he said. "Ali comes from a different era. He's a cultural phenomenon as much as a sports phenomenon.''

CKX Chief Executive Officer Robert Sillerman said the company will be selective about its deals and will likely search for opportunities outside the U.S.

"This is different than a licensing deal with Elvis Presley,'' Sillerman said in a telephone interview. ``It's appropriate and it's consistent with Elvis that there are over 100-plus licensees. That will not be the case with Muhammad Ali. That's not where the power of this is.'' (News, Source: Bloomberg)

Ultra rare vinyl release on ebay: The ebay listing reads: 'By this time you should have read the information we have shown that appeared in the 'Elvis Monthly' Magazines (No.6 June 1964/No.9 September 1964/No.4 April 1965). I first met Albert Hand (and my first wife come to that) when I went to the Elvis Convention in Brussels in 1966 (pictures of us at the Convention appear in Elvis Monthly No.80 Sep 1966 & a fan letter from me regarding the Convention in Elvis Monthly No.82 Oct 1966).  This is the Original RD 7586 (P2PP 8412 1B) ELVIS FOR YOU 10 Track Album  that was scheduled for issue early in 1965 but was never released! In September of 1965 we got instead RD7723 FLAMING STAR & SUMMER KISSES with the 2 added tracks Are You Lonesome Tonight & It's Now Or Never. The P2PP 8412 1B Number is Stamped in the Run Off Grooves on Both Sides. Disc Is M- & Comes With In ORIGINAL Factory Inner Sleeve With The SAMPLER Still Attached.' (News, Source: ebay)

"Follow That Dream" DVD release in EC: According various video-dvd magazines the DVD of Follow That Dream, region 2 will shortly be released by Warner Home Video in most of the European countries. (News, Source: The United Elvis Presley Society / Elvis News)

Click for ElvisSessions' interview archive

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #64: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Man lucky only a mess of blues, imagine mess if more than one colour" (Source: EIN)

FTD has Elvis' final Hayride performance?: According to a post by Ger Rijff on the FECC board he has been reliably informed FTD has acquired an audio recording of Elvis' final performance on the Louisiana Hayride on 15 December 1956. The only other information currently available is that Elvis' performance of Paralyzed is very audible. (News, Source: FECC)

Kraig Parker's 50th Anniversary Tribute (DVD Review): Kraig Parker is one of America's premier Elvis tribute artists. On watching his impressive DVD, The 50th Anniversary Tribute to the King of Rock and Roll, it is easy to see, and hear, why. Recorded in Dolby Digital 5.1 and HD Widescreen, with The Jordanaires on background vocals, this is a professional and energetic show where all you need to do is pump up the volume and enjoy one of the world's finest. (DVD Review, Source: EIN)

Click to see and hear Johnny Cash imitating Elvis in an amusing performance of 'Heartbreak Hotel'

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #63: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Man who want woman to wear ring around neck must have woman with very small head" (Source: EIN)

Humes High to be renamed after Elvis?: Lakeisha posted this interesting message on the elvisnumberones bulletin board. If true, it is major news:

"A guy I know who knows I'm a big Elvis fan, who lives near downtown told me that he heard through sources that L.C. Humes Junior High could be renamed ELVIS A. PRESLEY JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL as early as this summer, plus plans to re-renovate the school are in the works as well.

Plus, Memphis Mayor Willie Herenton, Shelby County Mayor AC Wharton, and members of the school board are pushing for an Elvis Appreciation Day for ALL schools throughout Memphis and Shelby County to be in affect by next summer. And from what I hear it's possible that August the 16th could be a day out of school for ALL Memphis and Shelby County students as part of that Appreciation day.

This is big for Elvis in Memphis considering that the school system is 80% black students in the city and about 25% in the county.

This could be the biggest news yet for Elvis! Wait until the media gets this news. It'll be all over the world news and talked about for months to come. This is goin to be HUGE!! It's one thing to have your home registered as a national landmark. But it's even a bigger thing to have a school named after you." (News, Source: elvisnumberones)

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #62: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Man who see blue moon of kentucky smoke weird stuff, baby" (Source: EIN)

'Elvis could handle the pressure' says Priscilla: Priscilla Presley believes the pressures of fame are part of being talented and 'The King' was only too aware of them. She said: "The pressures are always there, you don't start out being a victim of fame, you start out with your talent and your passion. You don't really think about the consequences or being catapulted to such a high level." She added she is honoured that the home she shared with 'Elvis is to be made a national monument. Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee, a site of pilgrimage for thousands of Elvis Presley fans the world over, is to receive the prestigious accolade this year. She said: It's quite an honour, it is the highest honour the national parks in our country gives to a home. It is an honour for Elvis as well as this is his beloved Graceland." Priscilla was in London to launch her range of bed linen available at Harrods, which she also believes The King would have approved of. She said: "Well he was a perfectionist so he would definitely have liked what we have done." (News, Source: itv.com)

"Elvis Meets Presley" CD to be re-issued: Elvis News has reported that the import CD "Elvis Meets Presley" is due to be re-released . Besides various out-takes and live performances this CD features the duet "Don't Cry Daddy" Lisa Marie and Elvis performed on August 16, 1997 at the Midsouth Coliseum, Memphis. (News, Source: Elvis News) (One of the two original release artworks opposite)

Jerry Scheff musical memories biography: Jerry Scheff has revealed in an interview that he is working on his musical memoires. A few chapters are spent to his times with Elvis. Jerry, who is living in Scotland now, signed a contract with a London based literary agent. You can find the full interview on the Elvis Brasia site. (News, Source:Elvis Collectors Brasil/ Elvis News)

Ernst Jorgensen interview response: On a thread on the FECC board regarding EIN's recent interview with Ernst Jorgensen, midnightx and Pete Dube, posted the following interesting comments:

midnightx: "BMG is a lost cause and Ernst's politically correct position in that latest interview proves it and proves he has no intention of trying to ever use his influence to give the Elvis Presley catalogue some integrity and organization.

Pete Dube: "I don't necessarily disagree with you midnightx, but in fairness to Ernst he has done much in the recent past to try and bring some order to the catalogue. BMG have pulled the rug from under Ernst so to speak, and brought his re-issue efforts to a halt as far as the mass-market releases go, but we're still much better off having the great Dane on the job than if he wasn't." (News, Source: FECC)

Rare "Orion" album now on CD: This is the original LP "Orion Reborn" now on CD for the first time from Sun Records.  It has the  beautiful yellow Sun label and artwork. This one is a real collector's item!! All 10 tracks from the original LP are included:  Honey, Lover Please, Got You On My Mind, Mona Lisa, Before The Next Teardrop Falls, Ebony Eyes, Washing Machine, Baby I Still Love You, You Can Have Her, and Lonesome Angel For More Information go to  : http://orionjimmyellis.com/pages/6/index.htm (News, Source: EP Gold) 2006/04/06  Andylon Lensen  -  orionjimmyellis.com

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #61: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Man who want only one night not to be trusted" (Source: EIN)

Latest celebrity visitor to Graceland: Kevin Max, formerly of the band dcTalk, and his new band recently visited Graceland while on tour promoting their highly anticipated album titled The Imposter. He and guitarist Erick Cole also visited the Sirius satellite booth at Graceland to talk about Elvis's tremendous influence on their careers. (News, Source: EPE)

Gene Pitney wasn't a big Elvis fan: In a 1993 interview for Goldmine magazine, Gene Pitney, who sadly died this week, said:

"I give Jimmy Webb all the credit for what he's done and all the success he's had, but it's just like — I remember the day that I was out cutting the grass and someone said Australia was on the telephone. I came in, I huffed and puffed up to the phone, and it was a guy that I knew very well, calling from Melbourne, Australia, and he said, "What did you think of Elvis?"

I thought, what a strange thing for a man to ask, calling me from Australia in the middle of the afternoon. And I said, "Y'know, I was never really that impressed. I was not a great Elvis fan."

Then all of a sudden he stopped me and he said, "Do you know what's happened?" And I said, "Well, I've been out cutting the grass for about three hours. No, to be honest with you." He said, "Elvis has died."

[Both] Jimmy Webb's songs, and Elvis as a performer never had the depth of the people that I liked. I like a lot of people who were obscure. [Original Drifters singer] Clyde McPhatter was one of my favorites, just a unique individual, in his own pattern, not following after anyone else". (News, Source: National Review Online)

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #60: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Man who slip, stumble and fall need to stop drinking" (Source: EIN)

Elvis signed high school yearbook for auction: Rare, signed, museum-quality memorabilia from Thomas Edison, Elvis Presley, Abraham Lincoln, Frank Sinatra and Tupac Shakur -- plus other famous historical figures and cultural icons -- will be auctioned online next week as part of a special, one-day event on bid4assets.com. Bidding takes place from 5 p.m. EDT on Tuesday, April 11, 2006, until 11 p.m. EDT on Wednesday April 12, 2006. The 600 items from the collection of Paul Sabesky and GovernmentAuction.com can be previewed from now until the start of the auction at http://www.bid4assets.com. (News, Source: Sanja Meegin)

Jet engine from the Lisa-Marie on ebay: With a starting price of only US$175,000 (reserve not met), this must be the perfect talking piece for anyone's lounge room! The listing says: "THIS IS ONE OF FOUR GENERAL ELECTRIC CJ 805-3A JET ENGINES THAT WAS REMOVED FROM ELVIS PRESLEY'S  AIRPLANE, THE "LISA MARIE",  A CONVAIR 880-22. THE ORIGINAL TAIL ID NUMBER WAS  N8809E.   WHEN MR.  PRESLEY ACQUIRED THE AIRCRAFT, THE TAIL ID  NUMBER WAS CHANGED TO N880EP ON 05/02/75.

ONE ENGINE WAS DONATED TO A MEMPHIS AVIATION TECH SCHOOL.  ONE ENGINE IS ON DISPLAY AT GRACELAND AND THE OTHER TWO ARE IN THE MOJAVE DESERT.   AROUND 1995  A DALLAS AVIATION TECH SCHOOL, DALFORT TRAINING TECH SCHOOL, OPERATED BY B. E. EUBANKS TRADED A CONTINENTAL TO520 ENGINE TO THE MEMPHIS TECH SCHOOL FOR THE GE CJ 805-3A.   AN ARTICLE APPEARED IN THE BUSINESS SECTION OF THE SHERMAN DEMOCRAT, SHERMAN,TEXAS ON 06/17/96.

IN 2002, THE TECH SCHOOL WENT OUT OF BUSINESS AND MR. EUBANKS SOLD THE ENGINE TO ME.  I HAVE TOYED WITH THE IDEA OF SELLING PARTS OFF THE ENGINE FOR SOUVENIRS BUT DUE TO NUMEROUS HEALTH PROBLEMS, I FEEL IT IS TIME TO SELL IT. THE ENGINE IS IN A CLIMATE CONTROL ENVIRONMENT.

I HAVE FULL DOCUMENTATION TO VERIFY THE AUTHENTICITY OF THIS ARTIFACT." Happy bidding! (News, Source: ebay/Sanja Meegin)

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction booklet for sale: Also available on ebay is the rare booklet given to attendees when Elvis was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986. (News, Source: ebay)

Priscilla Presley wary of reprising role in "Dallas": Actress Priscilla Presley today said she would be “very reluctant” to get involved in the big-screen remake of TV soap opera Dallas, in which she starred in the 1980s. The former wife of Elvis said she believed it would be hard to better the hugely successful original series, which followed the fortunes of Texan oil baron J R Ewing and his family.

Jennifer Lopez, John Travolta, Shirley MacLaine and Luke Wilson are all said to be in negotiations for parts in the film version. Presley said she would want to see the story line and cast before committing to a part in the movie but admitted she couldn’t see herself becoming involved.

“I’m very reluctant about it because I don’t know how it can get better than what we had. This is a whole new generation and I don’t know if they will appreciate it as much as our generation. We grew up with it, we knew the characters very well, we knew the actors very well. It is a different time period now. I don’t know if I would want to be in something that was already successful and risk myself with something that may or may not be,” she said.

Presley, who was in London to promote a new range of luxury bed linen she has designed, also talked about her famous marriage to the “King of rock’n’roll”. She said the breakdown of the relationship was due to a combination of factors, including the difficulty of balancing being a mother to Lisa Marie and a wife to the superstar.

“That life is very difficult, it’s a balancing act of trying to make everything work and I’m somewhat of a perfectionist,” she said. "Elvis was who he was – he was an icon even at that time, when he was alive, and he’s a legend today.”

But she said: “It was a combination (of problems) but it didn’t mean that we didn’t care about each other. We cared very much about each other, even after we were divorced.”

And she said her former husband would have been very honoured by last week’s announcement that his world-famous home Graceland, which attracts half a million visitors a year, had been made into a national monument.

“We had a street named after him while he was alive and he was pleased with that, so I can only imagine how he’d feel to have his beloved home as a National Historic Monument,” she said. (News, Source: ITV.com)

Elvis plates fetch $4500 for safe driving program: The Lockyer Valley Safe Driver Training program is $4500 better off after Tuesday's auction of Elvis Presley personalised plates on the 4GR Graham Healy midday show. The money raised will help subsidise the costs of a defensive driving course for young people.

"In The Early Morning Rain" CD release: The Tin Tin label is to release a new CD, "In The Early Morning Rain". It comprises a compilation of outtakes, instrumental versions and live performances. Track listing : Let Me (Overdubbed version)/Heartbreak Hotel (Live at the Maple Leaf Garden, Toronto April 2, 1957)/I Was The One (Live at the Empire Stadium, Vancouver August 31, 1957)/That's When Your Heartaches Begin (Live at the Empire Stadium, Vancouver August 31, 1957)/I Gotta Know (Alternate version)/Today, Tomorrow And Forever (Instrumental)/Fort Lauderdale Chamber Of Commerce (Instrumental version #1)/Fort Lauderdale Chamber Of Commerce (Instrumental version #2/Charro (Alternate undubbed take)/Don't Cry Daddy (Harmony vocal overdub)/From A Jack To A King (Alternate version)/Mama Liked The Roses (Harmony vocal overdub)/Early Morning Rain (Unbubbed)/Miracle Of The Rosary (Alternate take)/He Touched Me (Alternate take)/Burning Love (Alternate take) Keith F. on the FECC board warns: "This looks like another Bootleg continuing the trend of Ripping Off MP3 samples from web sites, and putting them out on CD! (News, Source: FECC)

"The King Has Landed" CD release: Another CD announced for release shortly is "The King Has Landed". This CD is to feature the April 22, 1977 show, recorded live in Detroit, MI. No information yet on the label, source or track listing. (News, Source: FECC)

Last Train to Memphis - Elvis Presley - Sein Aufstieg 1935-1958 by Peter Guralnick: The German version of Last Train to Memphis was released in February. Info: Bosworth Musikverlag, paperback, 641 pages, ISBN 3865430961. (Source: Elvis Presley A Life In Books)

The King. Elvis Leeft! by Rich Koslowski: The Dutch version of "Elvis The King" by Rich Koslowski wil be released in May 2006. (Source: Proxis / Elvis Presley A Life In Books)

Charmed star for Elvis related movie: Former “Charmed” star Brian Krause is going from McGowan to Memphis. According to TV Guide, the actor (wonder if he’s scrubbed “Return to the Blue Lagoon” off his CV, yet? hmmm) will join media-fave Tom Sizemore (“Natural Born Killers, “Heat”) for a new film called “The Headhunter”. Says the site, “he'll play Elvis Presley's longtime friend and bodyguard. Tom Sizemore is his costar, so that should be a fun shoot.” Indeed. Various other sites have pegged John Bennett Perry (Yeah, Matt’s dad), Max Perlich (Whistler on “Angel”), Peter Dobson (“The Poseidon Adventure”) and Mark Rolston (“Profiler”) for supporting roles. (News, Source: MovieHole)

Elvis lectures in Texas: Steve Davis will discuss “Elvis in East Texas” during the fifth of six lectures in the Texas Music Culture lecture series at Texas A&M University at Galveston. Elvis Presley started his music career playing at venues in East Texas from the Reo Palm Isle in Longview to Driller Park in Kilgore.

Davis said one of the most serendipitous moments in rock ’n’ roll took place in July 1954 when the 19-year-old Presley was working full-time as a truck driver for Crown Electric and got his break into music with his rendition of “That’s All Right Mama.”

Davis is the social science chair in the history department of Kingwood College. He lectures widely about how Presley developed his approach to music while playing at clubs and saloons throughout East Texas.

This program is sponsored by Texas A&M University at Galveston and made possible in part by grants from the Summerlee Foundation, the Galveston Historical Foundation and the Friends of the Rosenberg Library.

WHAT: “Elvis in East Texas,” a lecture by Steve Davis...WHEN: 7 p.m. 5 April....WHERE: Rosenberg Library, 2310 Sealy Ave., Galveston. (News, Source: The Galveston County Daily News)

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #58: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Too many people found crying in the chapel cause flood" (Source: EIN)

Elvis' musical legacy - 'A Complete Body Of Work': Elvis produced more great music than the Beatles did or the Beach Boys or Michael Jackson or Bo Diddley or Chuck Berry. The only artists to come close to matching it, in terms of depth, are Ray Charles, Bob Dylan and maybe James Brown. So why do Elvis fans often have to defend his astounding musical creativity? EIN contributor Harley Payette explores Elvis' musical legacy - could Elvis have done more? (Spotlight Article, Source: EIN)

Graceland confirms Elvis had cosmetic surgery: A posting on the FECC board about whether or not Elvis had cosmetic surgery is settled once and for all:

"Dear Ramiro Sanchez, Yes, Elvis did have cosmetic surgery twice. He had his nose done in 1957 and he had his eyes done in June 1975. As a teen he also had severe acne and he was able to clear that up as most of us do with maturity and skin preparations. And yes, the interview clip you sent was correct. Archives Staff" (News, Source: FECC)

25 new mid-price Elvis titles: SONY/BMG added 25 Elvis titles to the new Mid-Price series (Source: Elvis News) The mid-price Elvis catalog now is:

Elvis in Mid Price Top 100: On the Mid Price Top 100 Elvis is currently listed 3 times:

# 7 White Christmas
# 60 Best Of The Artist Of The Century
# 99 Aloha From Hawaii Via Satellite (News, Source: Elvis News)

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #57: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Any woman who nothing but a hound dog can't be well bred" (Source: EIN)

David Stanley talks to EIN: Elvis' youngest brother, David Stanley, is currently making his first motion picture, The Headhunter. Due to open later this year or early 2007, The Headhunter is David's story of growing up around Elvis. In this exclusive interview with EIN, David talks about what fans can expect in The Headhunter, its stars, and several topical issues including the sale of EPE's operational arm to Robert Sillerman, Elvis tribute artists and last year's CBS TV Elvis mini-series. (Interview, Source: EIN)

"Elvis Cinema & Popular Culture" book delay: Release of what is expected to be one of 2006's best Elvis book releases, Elvis Cinema & Popular Culture by Douglas Brode, has been delayed three months until 30 June 2006. (News, Source: ElvisBookResearch)

Jimmy Denson book sales finally falling: As we reported on 30 March 2006, the negative publicity for the Lanier Shapre/Jimmy Denson book, Elvis Through My Eyes, appeared to have backfired as there was a spike in online sales as fans ordered the book to see what all the fuss was about. After peaking inside the top 100,000 list on Amazon's daily sales the book has now fallen back to its position (around 330,000) before the negative pr started. (News, Source: Amazon)

Elvis CDs in 2006: Nearly 30 years after Elvis left the building, can there really be over 30 new Elvis CDs released in the first half of 2006? Check out EIN's updated CD Releases of 2006 for all the details. (Source: EIN)

"Elvis would have loved the tourists" says Priscilla: Ex-wife Priscilla has endorsed the designation of the singer's former home, Graceland, as a US National Historic Landmark, because he would have loved the attention. The rock 'n' roll legend's Memphis, Tennessee mansion was awarded the status last week (27MAR06), joining a select list of American sites including the White House, Pearl Harbor and the Alamo. And Priscilla insists the late star would be thrilled by the honour. She says, "It's very strange to have Graceland declared a National Historic Landmark, because it was our home first and foremost. "I had no idea when I opened the house to the public in 1982 that it would receive so many visitors. Elvis would be very pleased about it." (News, Source: Contact Music/Sanja Meegin)

A little bit of "Elvisness" on "Trading Places": TLC's 'Trading Spaces' aired the first of two Memphis-based shows on Saturday, April 1. The second Memphis show will air on April 8. With the two episodes being filmed in Memphis, we hear there might be a little bit of Elvisness in them. Check your local listings for the time the shows air in your area. (News, Source: EPE)

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #56: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "If man gets tongue tied, must be contortionist" (Source: EIN)

"The Best of Elvis": Following the popularity of EIN's recent article looking at the Top 10 Elvis releases of 2005, we've now gone a step further to identify our listing of the "best ever " Elvis records/CDs, books and DVDs. Today we unveil the first 26 CDs, books and DVDs in a list spanning 50 years of great releases. We will add to the list from time to time as we rediscover some of the greatest things Elvis to have ever come our way. Check inside, explore, and see if you agree with EIN. Have we got it right or have we lost the plot? (Spotlight, Source: EIN)

The History Channel honors Elvis: The History Channel will present 10 Days That Unexpectedly Changed America April 9th - 13th. The following information comes directly from the History Channel news release:

"There are powerful days that make up the fabric of America's history. Some are big and explosive, while others are understated and unexpected. Their importance is realized later as we recognize how they set our nation on the path to what it is today.

10 Days That Unexpectedly Changed America is an expansive, 10-part television event produced and directed by Oscar and Emmy award-winning filmmakers."

When America Was Rocked - April 11th at 9PM/8C:

"When Elvis Presley appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show on Sunday, September 9, 1956, America stopped, watched and listened. An astounding 82% of households with televisions tuned in to see the gyrating 21-year-old from Memphis whose defiant musical style was, until then, mostly heard in black night clubs and on late night radio shows. Elvis Presley's appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show was the symbol of a whole new culture involving teenage independence, sexuality, race relations and a new form of music."

Elvis article in MOJO magazine: Elvis graces the cover of the 150th Collectors Edition of the U.K. Music Magazine MOJO. With this issue (May 2006) comes a free 15-track CD tribute to the King ("Hail to the King") featuring versions of Elvis songs by Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, Jeff Beck, El Vez, Link Wray, The Dead Kennedys and more. (News, Source: Elvis News/Amber Smith)

Elvis rated #2 historical person people would like to meet: A poll for the new magazine, Dr Who Adventures, found the top 10 historical figures people would like to meet were:

1. Winston Churchill
2. Elvis Presley
3. Albert Einstein
4. Marilyn Monro
5. Martin Luther King Jr
6. Ghandi
7. Princess Diana
8. Nelson Mandela
= 9. Isaac Newton
= 9. Elizabeth I
= 9. John Lennon

Does this mean Elvis could turn up in Dr Who? (News, Source: Amber Smith)

Elvii Radio Listener Appreciation Party in Vegas: Plans are coming together nicely for the Elvii Radio listener appreciation party and ETA contest in Las Vegas - June 23,24,25, 2006 at Mardi Gras Hotel and Casino. This is an intimate event focused on networking with fans and ETAs. All attendees (fans and ETAs) will recieve a gift bag. In addition to the great music we will gather for breakfast on Sunday morning. Full details, special guests and itinerary available online soon. But don't delay! Less than 150 tickets and 15 performer slots remain for this event! There will also be other surprises and giveaways exclusively for attendees including a trip and cash prizes. (News, Source: Elvii Radio)

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #55: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "If earth boy love angel, it would be interspecies." (Source: Sanja Meegin)

Junkie XL said "NO" to an Elvis remix album: In a recent interview the Dutch DJ Junkie XL, who had a major break through in 2002 with his remix of Elvis' "A Little Less Conversation" for the global Nike commercial, refused the offer of doing a full CD with Elvis remixes. Tom Holkenborg, his real name, confirmed in the Dutch tv show "De wereld draait door" that had could have won a fortune had he agreed. "But it's not about the money, it's about music", was his comment. He also declined a proposal by the Beatles (Paul, Ringo) who had asked for a remix of "Strawberry Fields Forever".

In 2002 EIN was the first Elvis group to be granted an interview with Tom Holkenborg. In a fascinating interview you can read about his not wanting to do any further Elvis remixes, how he discovered ALLC, how he approached the ALLC remix, and his background in music. (News, Source: Elvis News/EIN)

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #54: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Why man gay every morning...is he straight at night?" (Source: Sanja Meegin)

"Carol's Memories of Elvis" Website has re-opened

David Neale's Elvis items for sale

Elvis "coffin photo" still missing:The anthrax cleanup at the former American Media Inc. building in Boca Raton has taken another twist. It may even have some officials all shook up.

Some 600 to 800 boxes of decontaminated photos from the tabloid publisher's extensive library have been removed from the building - with permission from the U.S. Environmental Agency, which has been overseeing the cleanup. But no one seems to know where the boxes went. Inside those boxes may be the famed "Elvis in his coffin" photo that graced the cover of the National Enquirer soon after the singer's death in 1977.

Palm Beach County health officials don't know where the boxes went. And David Rustine, owner of the building, did not return phone calls to his office. Anthrax was mailed to the AMI building in the Arvida Park of Commerce in October 2001 - only weeks after the 9/11 attacks and before similar outbreaks were reported at other media outlets and government buildings.

The deadly spores killed Sun Photo Editor Bob Stevens and sickened another AMI worker, Ernesto Blanco, who recovered. Bio-ONE decontaminated the building - and last year began to fumigate boxes of building contents that included 4.5 million photos - dead Elvis among them. Bio-ONE left in June after its lease ran out, and Rustine hired MARCOR Remediation to finish.

By the end of 2005, MARCOR had fumigated some 8,600 boxes of photos, documents and other items left behind when employees evacuated. Health officials say most have been incinerated. (News, Source: Boca Raton News)

Chinese "Elvis" proverb #53: Continuing our series of humorous Chinese proverbs based around a line from an Elvis song: "Why girls girls girls said 3 times when only 2 main girls in movie?" (Source: Sanja Meegin)

Hernando's Hideaway for sale: The world famous Honky-Tonk bar Hernando's Hideaway in Memphis (Behind the Visitor's Center on the corner of Elvis Presley Blvd. and Brooks) is for sale now. There been rumors over the years that Elvis played this bar in the 50's, but none of them have been confirmed. But other Memphis stars, among them Jerry Lee Lewis, have played Hernando's Hideaway in the beginning of their careers. For many years Hernando's played host to the heats of the Images of Elvis contest and was a popular venue during Elvis Week's. (News, Source: Charmaine Voisine/EIN)

Quote:"Elvis Presley is the supreme socio-cultural icon in the history of pop culture"

(Dr. Gary Enders)

Quote:"Elvis is the 'glue' which holds our society together....which subconciously gives our world meaning"

(Anonymous)

Quote:"Eventually everybody has to die, except Elvis"

(humorist Dave Barry)

Quote:"He is the "Big Bang", and the universe he detonated is still expanding, the pieces are still flying"

(Greil Marcus, "Dead Elvis")

Quote:"I think Elvis Presley will never be solved"

(Nick Tosches)

Quote:"He was the most popular man that ever walked on this planet since Christ himself was here"

(Carl Perkins)

Quote:"When I first heard Elvis' voice I just knew I wasn't going to work for anybody...hearing him for the first time was like busting out of jail"

(Bob Dylan)

Quote:"When we were kids growing up in Liverpool, all we ever wanted was to be Elvis Presley"

(Sir Paul McCartney)

Quote:"You can't say enough good things about Elvis. He was one of a kind"

(Johnny Cash)

Quote:"And don't think for one moment he's just a passing fancy....he's got enough of it to keep him on top for a long time"

(R. Fred Arnold, Fury magazine, Aug 1957)

Quote:"It isn't enough to say that Elvis is kind to his parents, sends money home, and is the same unspoiled kid he was before all the commotion began. That still isn't a free ticket to behave like a sex maniac in public"

(Eddie Condon, Cosmopolitan)

Elvis records reaching #2 & #3 on the Cashbox Pop Singles chart:

#2: A Fool Such As I (1959)#2: A Big Hunk Of Love (1959) #3: Hard Headed Woman (1958)#3: One Night (1958)

#3: (You're The Devil) In Disguise (1963)

Elvis Facts:

Tickets for Elvis' show on March 29, 1957 in St. Louis cost $2.00 to $2.50While in Germany Elvis was hospitalised with tonsillitis in October 1959Despite being an illegal immigrant, photographic evidence shows Colonel Tom Parker traveled to Canada with Elvis in 1957 Elvis strongly believed there weren't enough good songs in King Creole to justify releasing a soundtrack album. RCA initially agreed, releasing two very successful EPs from the movie. A soundtrack LP eventually followedDuring the 1960s Elvis had his own football team, Elvis Presley Enterprises, which played in the Menphis touch football league. In the 1962 final, EPE narrowlt lost to Delta Automatic Transmission. 6-13In Clambake, (Elvis) Scott Hayward's driving licence shows February 23, 1940...taking 5 years off Elvis' real ageIn the 1970s Elvis was ofered $5m to stage a concert in front of the Pyramids in Egypt. When the Colonel declined the offer, Saudi billionaires raised the offer to $10m