Book release - "The Life Of Elvis Aaron Presley Elvis Facts For Elvis Fans": Another self-published book, this book by Steve Landers can be bought from www.lulu.com

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Book release in Germany: A new 288 pages book will be published on the exhibition "Mehr als Elvis: 60 Jahre Amerikaner in Hessen" (More than Elvis: 60 Years Americans In Hessen") in the Capri-Club (the former Ray Barracks) in Friedberg Germany. The book has the same title as the exhibition an contains 300 images - partly unpublished - and documents the history of the Americans in Hessen in seven themes (ISBN: 9783937774657). (News, Source: Elvis News /Elvis Club Berlin)

Black Angels in Vegas (Book & CD review): The new book + 2CD release from Venus Productions recently caught our eye and ear. What we found was a first rate release which will delight all fans. With rare photos, an excellent narrative account of Elvis in 1974 and great sound resonating from the audio component, there is much to be enjoyed and wondered about with this release. Elvis's use of the "F" word during the show has sparked debate and while some other shows in his 1974 Summer season were ordinary, at midnight on 30 August the King was in particularly fine form. But what is the story with those "angels"? Click here to read our detailed review (Review, Source: EIN)

Wikipedia and Elvis: As serious Elvis researchers of many years EIN is surprised at the frequency with which reasonable comments or info on Wikipedia is changed. We are reminded of Nicholas Stuart’s observation in his excellent article, The Minefields of Cyberspace:

Wikipedia, for example, has almost single-handedly destroyed the business model of Encyclopaedia Britannica. It's now an acceptable reference for school assignments and a repository of general knowledge. But the site isn't static, and authors can build up on-line authority by contributing a rapid succession of minor edits. This results in an anonymous contributor having the power to overrule, say, a professor who holds recognised authority in the off-line world. Cliques dominate process, consigning others to impotent confusion and, finally, alienation. The significance of this is the way its effects are rippling through wider society.

Disconnect is growing. Some young people seem hooked by computers, leading to uncertainty about boundaries between the real and the apparent. The Internet is rapidly becoming a vital part of society something that is central not simply to work, but also to our interactions with others. We've come to depend on something we don't understand. Most importantly, no institution is tasked to tackle this emerging threat to our society.

Wikipedia will be with us for a long time but, without greater rigor aimed at information integrity, its underlying structure and process means it will be an Internet case of "reader beware". (EIN Comment)

Who's the King? Banished from the Kingdom by Sexy Elvis: To understand Elvis, you have to know the music before him. Hot jazz _ so vibrant and affirming in the '20s and early '30s _ had mellowed during the war years. Big bands had grown bigger and softer, their edges worn smooth by an audience seeking comfort and stability in a time of hardship and loss. When the war ended, the country looked to mend its wounds with a sense of unity, shared optimism and hope. The music reflected the time. The popular singers had big, easy voices, from the satiny Nat King Cole to the velvet fog of Mel Torme. Frank Sinatra produced an enviable string of hits such as "I've Got the World on a String" and "I've Got You Under My Skin;" Perry Como crooned "Catch a Falling Star" and the novelty song "Hot Diggity (Dog Ziggity Boom)"; Patti Page sang "The Tennessee Waltz" and "How Much Is That Doggie in the Window?" Great voices all, well trained, mannered. And, as was desired in that postwar era, both the songs and the singers were non-threatening. Very non-threatening. (Opposite: Elvis with Jeanne LeMay Dumas)

But after a decade of safe, tempered, homogenous music, the youth ofAmerica were ready for a change.

In stepped the big train from Memphis. Elvis Presley, the King of Rock 'n' Roll, was barely 21 when he made "Heartbreak Hotel": Music was changed forever. He had the big voice that was expected at the time, but it was unlike anything heard before on the pop charts: Not only did it have a Southern twang, it had a youthful urgency, an irrepressibility, an untamed edge. It was lusting, it was sinful, and to millions of young people bored with the conformity that was suffocating them, it was magnificent.

In a little more than two years, Presley racked up one of the most extraordinary runs in pop music history _ "Heartbreak Hotel," "I Want You, I Need You, I Love You," "Hound Dog," "Don't Be Cruel," "Love Me Tender," "Too Much," "All Shook Up," "(Let Me Be) Your Teddy Bear," "Jailhouse Rock," "Don't," and "Hard-Headed Woman" all hit No. 1 on the Billboard charts. Aside from "Don't," they are all considered classics more than 50 years later.

The crowds went wild, more even than for Sinatra, more than they would for anyone else until the Beatles hit town. His appearances caused near-riots, and the fans who packed his concerts would not leave until the announcement came over the loudspeakers: "Elvis has left the building."

A musical genius with a golden touch, Elvis responded to his influences. Growing up in small-town Mississippi, he was exposed to country music and the gospel singing he heard in church. As a teen, he moved to Memphis, where he was fascinated by the rhythm and blues he heard from black singers on Beale Street. Like many contemporaries, he fused these styles into a hard-driving country sound, rockabilly.

Other rockabilly stars were good (Carl Perkins) and great (Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison). There was only one Elvis.

Elvis had charisma. Even his detractors, and he had many, had to admit that there was something compelling about the man and his music. He could command a stage like no one else, and his distinctive soulful baritone voice was instantly recognizable. And there was one more thing.

Rock music has always been about sex, from the term "rock 'n' roll" to the suggestive beat. And more than any other singer of his day, the young Elvis was the personification of sex, the kind of man parents didn't want their daughters to date. That one shock of hair curled dangerously down his forehead, his lips curled in a haughty sneer, his eyes flashed dark. And of course he shook his hips suggestively whenever he sang.

It wasn't subtle. But it was effective.

Not all of Elvis' efforts to capitalize on this sex appeal and charisma turned out well. He made 31 movies, some of which made a lot of money, but all of which were terrible. Even so, from these cinematic disasters came some of his greatest songs.

"Jailhouse Rock," from the movie of the same name, did more to distill the essence of rock music than any song since "Rock Around the Clock." "You're So Square (Baby, I Don't Care)" also came from "Jailhouse Rock." The great ballad "Love Me Tender" came from the movie of the same name. "Got a Lot of Livin' to Do" came from "Loving You," as did the under-appreciated title song. Even "Viva Las Vegas" has a certain greatness to it, if you're in the right mood.

In his 30s, Elvis settled into a kind of self-parody. The quality of his songs diminished, although he had a nice little string with "In the Ghetto," "Suspicious Minds," and "Kentucky Rain" all released within a few months of each other. His behavior became more outlandish _ handing out free Cadillacs to whoever pleased him _ and his taste became more garish.

This is the period that Elvis impersonators inevitably mimic, with his mutton-chop sideburns and his ghastly rhinestone-encrusted knit white jumpsuit. That was the look he had when he mounted a comeback with two hugely successful televised concerts in 1968 and 1972. This comeback may not have won many new fans, but it gave the millions who had adored him a reason to remember why.

Heavy hangs the head that wears the crown of the King of Rock 'n' Roll. Elvis' excesses got the better of him. The massive amounts of prescription drugs, the overeating, the grossly unhealthy lifestyle caught up to him when he was just 42 years old.

His music is immortal. But Elvis left the building for the last time 32 years ago.

ABOUT THE WRITER:Daniel Neman is an entertainment writer in Richmond, Va. His columns run in Boomer Life Magazine and his movie reviews are online at boomerlifemagazine.com. Readers may send him e-mail at dneman1@verizon.net. He wrote this for the Fredericksburg (Va.) Free Lance-Star.

More on Jerry Scheff not touring with Elvis In Concert (see EIN's earlier story below dated 14 August): Many thanks to Brian Quinn for this information which he received from Elvis In Concert producer, Stig Edgren:

Dear Brian:

The decision to use Nathan East on the upcoming tour was largely mine, after Jerry made it clear he longer wished to work on ETC after the tour of Australia in 2006 and the 30th Anniversary show. Both Duke and Emory were suggested, but with the permission of the estate, I wanted to open up this ‘honor’ to play with Elvis to others who proved themselves in other arenas. Nathan is one of the finest bass players in the world, playing alongside Eric Clapton for years, among many others. I am sure the fans will love watching him, and the other TCB players are also looking forward to playing with him.

Kind regards, Stig Edgren

Twelve new Gold & Platinum awards for Elvis: On August 15, 2009 Elvis was awarded another 12 Gold and Multi Platinum awards. Nearly all the awards were for either the "'68 Comeback Special" and "Aloha Special" DVDs and the "ELV1S 30 #1 Hits" compilation. There was one award for the "Elvis By the Presleys" DVD. (News, Source: Elvis News)

World Record Attempt:

Did a very large group of Elvis look-a-likes achieve their goal?

Click here to find out (News, Source: Matt Shepherd)

Elvis inspired films are a strangely satisfying lot: As we all know of course, Elvis never died. No, none of that ridiculous "he's living with aliens on another planet" conspiracy nonsense. Elvis never really died because he continues to influence the arts, even to this day. Not just in music, but in film as well. Whether he's a sexual deviant, an invisible friend or even a mummy-hunting geriatric, The King lives on in our hearts, minds and movie theaters, and he will for a very long time to come. "Bubba Ho-Tep" (2002): Might as well hit the ground with guns blazing. The conceit behind Don Coscarelli's "Bubba Ho-Tep" alone is enough to sell it. Elvis (Bruce Campbell!) never died; he simply went into hiding in a Texas nursing home, the same place where an in-hiding John F. Kennedy -- who is apparently a black man, played by Ossie Davis -- is also living out his twilight years. That same nursing home becomes the target of an ancient mummy, which preys on residents as they sit on the crapper. Only the geriatric superpowers of JFK and The King can save the day. "Honeymoon in Vegas" (1992): Against all odds, "Honeymoon in Vegas" works. On the eve of their Las Vegas wedding, Jack (Nicolas Cage) and Betsy (Sarah Jessica Parker) are caught in a sticky situation: come up with Jack's $65,000 poker debt -- lost in a rigged game, 'natch -- or leave Betsy in the care of dirty-dealing pro gambler Tommy Korman (James Caan) for the weekend. The predictable beats that follow reach their climax when Jack hitches a ride back to Vegas aboard a plane full of skydiving Elvis impersonators in light-up jumpsuits. Sure, Elvis Presley doesn't actually appear as a character in this movie. But I figure that 100 skydiving King impersonators is a mighty close second.

"True Romance" (1993): In Quentin Tarantino's first script, a love story, Clarence Worley (Christian Slater) and Alabama Whitman (Patricia Arquette) try to run away together by selling off a bundle of stolen cocaine. Of course, anytime a large stash of drugs is stolen you can expect large brutes with guns to follow the trailer. Such is the case in "True Romance," as Clarence and Alabama get mixed up in all sorts of trouble. Through all of the madness, the one thing that keeps Clarence together is his imaginary pal Elvis. Whenever the crises reach unmanageable proportions, he ducks away for a chat with The King -- played by Val Kilmer --to get his head straight.

"Forrest Gump" (1994): Little do we all know it, but the world would have been a much different place if a young Elvis Presley hadn't stopped for a night at a little bed and breakfast in Greenbow, Alabama. That's where The King met a young Forrest Gump (Tom Hanks), who taught the future rock star how to shake his hips. That signature dance move inspired millions of young women, angered twice as many parents and was in many ways the keystone of a cultural revolution. All thanks to little Forrest and those damnable leg braces of his.

"Sleeping Dogs Lie" (2006): Elvis plays a minor role in "Sleeping Dogs Lie," a twisted rom-com from the mind of Bobcat Goldthwait. The bulk of the story revolves around Amy (Melinda Page Hamilton), a newly engaged young woman who labors over whether to share a dirty, shameful secret with her husband-to-be: that she... errr... pleasured her dog on a whim one quiet college evening. In an effort to inspire her daughter to be honest -- not knowing what the secret is of course -- Amy's mother relates the story of Elvis once having her and a friend wrestle in his bedroom while he watched. There's also a Roy Orbison anecdote, but he died in December. (Celluloid Elvis, Source: moviesblog.mtv.com)

CD Review: I Got Lucky: Released last year on the RCA Camden label, this 10 track album is the CD edition of the original Camden album. With Sony BMG's sound maestro, Vic Anesini, in charge of the mastering, does the album stand the test of time?   Read EIN's 'capsule' review to find out

Will Michael Jackson eclipse Elvis beyond the grave?: Michael Jackson has earned £60 million (NZ$145 million) since his death. Executors of the singer's estate claim money from a film deal and merchandising contracts has "flooded" into Michael's bank accounts since he died in June. They predict the pop superstar will make another £60 million by the end of the year, and expect him to overtake Nirvana rocker Kurt Cobain and Elvis Presley - who have made £450 million and £362 million respectively from beyond the grave - as the highest-earning dead celebrity in the next 12 months. Lawyer John Branca, who is co-executor of Michael's estate, said: "Clearly this will be a new record for estates that likely will not be broken. Elvis' estate makes £33 million a year. This will be a bigger estate."

Branca and fellow co-executor, music executive John McClain, have put together a series of deals for commemorative coins, school supplies, a coffee-table book and a film. They have also been retrieving funds held for Michael by anonymous creditors, thought to amount to "several million pounds", and tallying the value of the singer's property, memorabilia and art collections.

While Michael's earnings steadily increase, his older sister La Toya has spoken about her grief at her sibling's passing. She said: "It's a very difficult moment for all of us. It's almost - you don't believe it - so you try to do the best you can by feeling his love, by helping and doing something he would want you to do."

Meanwhile, law enforcement sources claim Michael's doctor Conrad Murray had Propofol hidden in the singer's house. Police officers found three large bottles and five smaller vials of the anaesthetic stashed in a closet in Murray's bedroom at the star's Los Angeles home. They also believe Murray received regular shipments of the powerful drug - reportedly used to help Michael sleep, and believed to have played a part in his death - through courier service FedEx, which he then hid in other locations.

The search warrant used to raid the Las Vegas pharmacy frequented by Murray showed investigators were looking for FedEx records relating to "the purchase, transfer, receiving, ordering, delivery and storage of Propofol to Dr Conrad Murray". Police were also looking for credit card receipts relating to a purchase of Propofol the doctor made in May. (News, Source: star.co.nz)

EIN Comment: While it is likely Michael Jackson will surpass Elvis in revenue this year, will Jackson's ongoing sales continue to hold up? Kurt Cobain exceeded Elvis 2 years ago but it was momentary (and based on the one off sale of his recording catalog) with Elvis reclaiming his #1 position last year.

Read EIN's article: Elvis or Michael Jackson - who is the bigger star?

Interuption in service - EIN Apology: Many visitors to EIN will have noticed that the site was offline for hours in the past day or so. We apologise for this temporary interuption in service. It was caused by a spike in visitor traffic to the EIN site around 16 August.

Rare Clambake Lobby Card from Italy

Gary Pepper Elvis archives to be auctioned: Leslie Hindman Auctioneers announces a once in a lifetime opportunity for Elvis Presley collectors and fans. Over the years many collectors have asked, “Whatever happened to the Gary Pepper collection of Elvis Presley memorabilia?” Early in his career, Presley befriended Gary Pepper, a young man with cerebral palsy, who ultimately became a close friend and the president of one of the King's first fan clubs, allowing him to amass a significant collection of personal effects gifted to him from Presley himself. When Pepper moved to California, he left the majority of his collection to his friend and nurse, who was originally hired by Elvis to look after Gary. Hopeful that collectors and fans can enjoy the memorabilia so treasured by Gary Pepper (shown opposite with Elvis and Priscilla at their wedding), she has recently decided to sell the collection at auction. Untouched for over three decades, this special collection will be offered for sale at Leslie Hindman Auctioneers, Sunday, October 18th, 2009 with a public exhibition Thursday, October 15th through Saturday, October 17th. A portion of the proceeds from the auction will be donated to United Cerebral Palsy of the Mid-South.

Highlights from the auction include clothing worn by Elvis Presley, a large lock of Presley’s hair, a telegram sent to Gary while Elvis was in the Army, Christmas cards to Gary from Priscilla and Elvis, a significant collection of Elvis LPs and 45s, two near mint Sun records, as well as numerous 45s from Presley's own juke box, autographed record sleeves, an incredible selection of souvenirs, movie stills and Graceland ephemera, and other memorabilia from celebrities such as signed photographs of the Jackson Five and Marilyn Monroe.

Additionally, the auction will include hundreds of candid photographs of Elvis, including photos documenting some of the most intimate moments in Presley’s life and career such as his return home from the Army, his wedding to Priscilla, Lisa Marie’s first days home from the hospital, and other photos taken at Graceland. Many of these images were taken by Gary Pepper with a Polaroid camera that Elvis gave him early in their friendship. A number of these original photographs were featured in The Tankcaster, the newsletter for Elvis’ fan club known as “The Tankers,” which are included in the auction as well as the Polaroid camera itself.

While Elvis’ life has been well documented, the intimate photographs and items in this sale give collectors and historians a new glimpse into Elvis’ life and character through his enduring friendship with Gary from the early days of his career until his death. Thirty two years after his death, this collection presents a remarkable post-script to Elvis’ life and legacy. (News, Source: artdaily.org)

Filming of Bubba Nosferatu to start by end of 2009: In a recent interview with Fangoria Radio Ron Perlman (Hellboy) gave listeners a pretty big update on the status of Bubba Nosferatu, the sequel to Don Coscarelli’s the brilliant and inspired Bubba Ho-tep. Perlman will be taking over the part of Elvis Presley. The rhinestone jumpsuit was previously worn by veteran B-movie actor Bruce Campbell.

According to Perlman, filming has been tentatively scheduled to start before the end of this year. Perlman told Fangoria, “Well, I have this window that’s about to open…I’ll be done shooting [his cable series] Sons Of Anarchy in September, and we’re hoping to get into production on Bubba in my hiatus between seasons two and three.” Perlman added that he has spoken with both director Coscarelli and co-star Paul Giamatti (Giamatti is set to play Elvis’ infamous manager, Colonel Tom Parker) and everyone is keen to get the ball rolling.

Additionally, according to Fangoria, Angus Scrimm (Phantasm) has been added to the cast. Scrimm will “play a Boris Karloff-like horror star who Elvis meets up with (pre-Ho-tep) in Las Vegas on the set of a vampire movie.”

Planning for Bubba Nosferatu has been going on since the release of Bubba Ho-tep in 2002. The growing anticipation only adds to the pile of concerns many fans have for the next installment of Elvis fighting the supernatural. There is no doubt that Perlman is a great actor, but can he capture the essence of Elvis that Bruce Campbell managed to exude in the first film? Audiences will just have to wait and see.  Visit You Tube to see Bubba Ho-Tep preview

Elvis' Personal Desk

Moving into Graceland tribute song by the Johnny Rodgers Band:

http://www.youtube..com/watch?v=3_aw3x6QHRM (Source: Christine Bamford)

Elvis cover songs - Worldwide auditions announced: Hello EIN, we will be holding a worldwide audition of Elvis Presley offical cover songs by the cooperation of Elvis Presley Enterprise! Use KORG DS-10 for part of the instrumental, create an Elvis Presley cover song, and submit entry! The winning cover song will be registered on the KORG DS-10 official viBirth website and will be available for download on iTunes!

More info:

YouTube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBg9hZeMbtY

Audition Offical Site viBirth
http://www.vibirth.com/competition_details/elvis/

MySpace
http://www.myspace.com/elvisaudition

Sony Adopts Open Book Strategy Against Amazon: Sony has suddenly become a champion of open standards, at least in the e-book market. The company says it will scrap its own proprietary technology and support the open ePub format for its Reader e-book devices.

The move is clearly a thrust at Amazon, which has gained an early lead in the e-reader race despite launching the Kindle more than a year after Sony's Reader. Sony doesn't want to see Amazon use its closed system with the Kindle to build a an unassailable position in the e-book business the way Apple has in digital music through iTunes and the iPod.

Of course the irony is that Sony is known for its long history of supporting proprietary formats going back to the Betamax video player. Everyone knows how that turned out. Naturally, Sony doesn't want the Reader to become the Betamax of the e-book world and figures embracing open standards is its best bet to counter Amazon.

The ePub format is currently supported by the Plastic Logic, which will launch a rival e-reader early next year and which recently announced partnering with Barnes & Noble as its e-book supplier. A big question is whether Apple will come down on the closed or open standard size when, as expected, it introduces a tablet computer that can serve as an e-reader.

For its part, Sony is also showing some nimbleness on pricing by dropping the price of new releases and best sellers to $9.99 to match Amazon and launching two new lower-cost models, including a pocket-sized Reader that goes for $199. Amazon's cheapest Kindle costs $100 more.

EIN Note: Some readers may be thinking what this item has to with Elvis.  For those interested in Elvis books, Sony’s move will help keep digital book prices low and support a more open ePub arrangement, rather than numerous competing, but technically different systems. Just as digital downloads are becoming the preferred way of obtaining music, digital downloads of printed matter is gaining momentum and will be commonplace in the next few years. (News, Source: Mark Walsh, Mobile Intelligencer)

Israeli fans mark 32nd anniversary: Elvis Presley fans in Israel have marked 32nd anniversary of their Idols' death, at a diner on the outskirts of Jerusalem. Impersonators and admirers gathered at the diner, performing some of the singer's best-loved hits, and recreating the moves that made him famous.

'I (have been) imitating Elvis Presley (for) about 29 years and I love him. Today we're singing for Elvis, for his memory. We're going to celebrate his death, his life, his legacy,' Eran Lev-Ron, an Israeli Elvis impersonator said.

Elvis died on August 16, 1977 at the age of 42, in Memphis. (News, Source: Bigpond)

Elvis faithful can't visit site of last #1: Presley fans flocking to Memphis this weekend to remember the day he died are being encouraged to also celebrate the 40th anniversary of his final No. 1 hit single, "Suspicious Minds." While they can tour Graceland, the estate where he died 32 years ago, or Sun Studio, which helped make him the King of Rock 'n' Roll, the Elvis faithful can't see the place where that hit record was made. There's nothing left, not even a historical marker, to remind people of the sessions that produced the "From Elvis in Memphis" album. American Sound Studio folded in 1972 and the building was later torn down. In its place is a beauty shop and a crumbling parking lot. "I haven't been back there to see," said Chips Moman, who ran the studio and produced the 1969 Elvis sessions. "I put it out of my mind."

"All of us had always liked Elvis, his early stuff," Moman, 72, said in a telephone interview from his home in LaGrange, Ga. "We didn't like all that movie stuff, so when we got our chance we wanted to cut some stuff that we liked."

Initially, it didn't appear Presley was going to want to move in a different direction. He arrived at the studio in January 1969 with his sizable entourage of friends and handlers, and some potential songs were presented to Moman and the band.

"And of course all those guys were boogalooing to all those terrible songs," recalled Bobby Wood, 68, piano player for the 827 Thomas Street Band. "And we were just standing around wondering, 'What in the world is going on here?"'

Wood said he was approached by Elvis confidant George Klein and asked what he thought about the songs. He answered frankly that he thought "they were a bunch of crap" and was shocked when Klein carried that message back to Presley.

"I didn't know whether Elvis was going to say 'Get out of here,' or what," Wood said. "But he just started laughing, and he was laughing to the top of his voice. So I knew he was all right after that."

The entourage began melting away as Presley began to gel with Moman and the house band in overnight recording sessions. He agreed to record "In the Ghetto," unusual in Elvis' repertoire for its social commentary on the cycle of crime and poverty, and "Suspicious Minds," which became a centerpiece of his live Las Vegas performances that would begin that year.

"I knew that he was only a good song away from being as big as he ever was," Moman said. "I knew Elvis had what it takes. We just gave him something new, and a new kind of groove."

Four years later and well into his jumpsuit-and-cape era, Elvis returned to Memphis to record at Stax Records in an effort to recapture the feel from the American sessions. Wood and several other members of the band — now known as the Memphis Boys since moving to Nashville — were brought in to back him up.

"The whole scenario had changed, and even Elvis didn't seem like he was that interested anymore," Wood said. The studio was teeming with people and there were too many distractions to record quality music, he said. "If you're not in control of the recording and getting it done with a small group of people, it's just not the same," Wood said.

Presley never lived to see another No. 1 single. He died Aug. 16, 1977, of heart disease worsened by years of prescription drug abuse. (News, Source: AP)

Forever Elvis - A commemorative Spotlight: Elvis touched the soul of every true fan and that hot August night in 1977 the fans returned the love. The funeral for the famous musician stopped the city. Thousands of people packed the streets, sharing their grief and love for the man who was gone. They followed the casket, which was festooned with flowers, and then, together, started singing one of the musician's most popular songs. Never before had so many voices joined in glorious harmony.... There is a universality to grief. Just as mourners in Milan did back in 1901 as they joined together to sing one of Verdi's signature tunes, so too in August 1977 did people gather from all over the world at the gates of Graceland to mourn over their lost idol. EIN's Piers Beagley contributes a special Spotlight for August 16th - And Elvis will live, Forever. (Spotlight, Source;EIN)

ELVIS WEEK 2009 - Saturday DAY 8 - EIN exclusive report: ‘C’mon Everybody’ and watch out Memphis because Sanja Meegin, EIN's roving reporter, is back in town once again to give us all the inside scoops on Elvis Week 2009. Day 8 was another packed day. The Conversations On Elvis at the Cannon Centre and earlier in the day the fundraising fun run. Sanja also took in the Gladiators DVD launch as well as the SONY presentation. Finally the always emotional Candlelight Vigil. EIN is the first website with an exclusive diary, plus daily photos - so click here & don't miss these special reports. (Elvis Week 2009, Source:SanjaMeegin/EIN)

Elvis fans wrap up week of activities with farewell vigil: Thirty-two years after the death of Elvis Presley, the faithful still came in droves to pay tribute to "The King" of rock and roll at the annual candlelight vigil Saturday night at Graceland. Police estimated a crowd of 8,500 at the event that concluded Elvis Week 2009, though more than 10,000 fans were expected to attend throughout the night. As always, Elvis fans came to see and be seen along the section of Elvis Presley Boulevard blocked off from traffic for the event. One group was seen wearing large golden E's on their heads. "We're leading a life of E's," joked Donnie Hudiburg of Stillwater, Okla., who was visiting friends Trude and Peter Naff in Memphis. Naff has been wearing the same headgear to vigils since the 20th anniversary of Elvis' death. The singer died on Aug. 16, 1977. Others paid tribute to "The King" in song in the previgil entertainment. After 14 years in the Navy, Scott Michael was told by a friend that he sounded like Elvis when he sang. It's certainly an unusual talent for a blue-collar guy from Staten Island, N.Y.

Chips Moman gives a little more conversation on Elvis' 1969 creative rebirth: By any standard, Chips Moman has an impressive résumé. As a songwriter, Moman is responsible for several true classics, from "Dark End of the Street" to "Luckenbach Texas (Back to the Basics of Love)." As a producer, he helped define Stax Records during its early years before going on to sire a succession of hits at his American Sound Studio. But, perhaps more than any aspect of his storied career, Moman will be remembered as the man who helped midwife Elvis Presley's creative rebirth in 1969. On Saturday, Moman will be back in the Bluff City for a rare public appearance and an even rarer conversation about the King. He'll be here, along with the members of his famed American Studio band, to mark the 40th anniversary their work on the landmark From Elvis in Memphis album. Moman and company will be interviewed on Saturday in a panel discussion at the Cannon Center for Elvis week.

ELVIS WEEK 2009 - Friday DAY 7 - EIN exclusive report: ‘C’mon Everybody’ and watch out Memphis because Sanja Meegin, EIN's roving reporter, is back in town once again to give us all the inside scoops on Elvis Week 2009. Day 7 was a stunner ending with the fabulous TCB Band '69 Cannon Centre concert (right). Earlier in the day Sanja travelled to Tupelo checking out Elvis' house as well as Johnnies Drive In. She also spent some time learning more about Elvis from Tupelo Hardware Store's Howard Hire. EIN is the first website with an exclusive diary, plus daily photos - so click here & don't miss these special reports. (Elvis Week 2009, Source:SanjaMeegin/EIN)

Let Me Be The One-'Behind Closed Doors' new CD: (As recorded "at home" in 1960 - 1973 - 1974.) If you wanted to hear more than a new live recording and wished for a brand new song, then the new Audionics is the one to buy! The label Audionics will soon release the CD "Let Me Be The One – Behind Closed Doors" containing home demos recorded in April 1974, November 1973 and 1960. Completely new songs recorded by Elvis are hard to find and Audionics is proud to include a completely UNRELEASED gem recorded in April 1974 in Palm Springs, CA. Elvis’ duets rendition with the group Voice of the song "Let Me Be The One" is somewhat spicy to say the least but nonetheless entertaining, all his energy was saved for a great finale that is almost worth the price of the CD by itself. This incredible rarity is followed with the complete November 1973 home demos recorded at Sam Thompson’s house in Memphis, and for the first time ever complete in such EXCELLENT quality. Finally we move back to California thirteen years earlier with Elvis on piano in the privacy of his house on Monovale Drive in Beverly Hills. This time Elvis is surrounded by Nancy Sharp and Red West. Within this intimate setting you are treated with the complete unedited home demos recorded that day, featuring for the very first time a good portion in stereo * (they have use two microphones) and best ever sound quality. This new Audionics production will be presented in a standard jewel case with a 32-page booklet, and accompanying photographs taken during these years or close to them. You will be able to hear and enjoy Elvis in the relaxed atmosphere of these private parties in California and Memphis. Get a copy while you can! AUDIONICS 2009-04-2

Elvis Presley's birthplace in Tupelo, Mississippi now a hot tourist attraction: August 16 marks the 32nd anniversary of the death of Elvis Presley. In death, Elvis seems to be more popular than ever with millions of fans visiting Presley's Graceland mansion in Memphis, Tennessee every year. Now those fans are also making the trip 90 minutes southeast of Memphis to visit the original two-room shack where Elvis Presley was born. Taking a cue from Graceland, the restored shack is just one part of the attraction at the Elvis Presley Birthplace complex at 306 Elvis Presley Drive in Tupelo, Mississippi. The original house was designated a state historical site back in 1978, and since then the Elvis Presley Memorial Chapel was built on the grounds in 1979, and an Elvis Presley Museum was added in 1992. While the two-room house only takes a few minutes to walk through (it's literally only two rooms!), visitors can expect to spend several hours exploring the museum and the beautiful grounds at the Birthplace complex. In the Assembly of God church, visitors can experience an old-time worship service similar to those that Elvis Presley attended as a young boy.

Japanese Elvis statue unveiled in Kobe: Former Prime Minister and keen Elvis fan Junichiro Koizumi, 67, attended a ceremony in Kobe Harborland on Sunday held to unveil the Elvis Presley statue that sat outside the Love Me Tender store in Tokyo’s Harajuku since 1987, but was removed in January this year following the closure of the store. Koizumi joined the crowd of about 1,000 Elvis Presley fans who braved the rain for the unveiling of the statue, which was originally paid for by the former prime minister along with contributions from several hundred other fans. Koizumi said that his love for Elvis was handy in diplomatic relations at times, and in the end seemingly outshone the statue amid the cries of “Jun-chan” that came from the crowd.  Kobe, known as the birthplace of jazz in Japan, was chosen as the new location for the statue after locals campaigned to have it brought to the port city. Harajuku was chosen for the first site in 1987 – 10 years after The King’s passing.    (News, Source:japantoday.com)

Polish Elvis CD Series: One of the most popular daily newspapers in Poland, Gazeta Wyborcza (Election Gazette), in conjunction with Radio Złote Przeboje (Golden Hits Radio), will release a twelve volume series of Elvis books and CDs. Each book will include a CD with Elvis’ songs. The first volume called Wiecznie Żywy (Alive Forever) hits the streets on Monday, August 17th. Volume 2, titled Narodziny Gwiazdy (A Star Is Born), will be released the following day, on August 18th. The remaining ten volumes will be issued weekly (every Tuesday) until October 27th, 2009. Rather strangely the iconic Elvis 68 image on the side appears to be an impersonator and not Elvis! Why would you do that?!   (News, Source;ElvisNews)

ELVIS WEEK 2009 - DAY 6 - EIN exclusive report: ‘C’mon Everybody’ and watch out Memphis because Sanja Meegin, EIN's roving reporter, is back in town once again to give us all the inside scoops on Elvis Week 2009. Day 6 was a full day of Good Rockin' starting out with the "Music Note" dedication on Beale Street to Dewey Phillips. Sanja chatted to Jack Soden as well as catching up with the feisty Bernard Lansky. She also spent some time learning about fine Elvis art with Joe Petruccio (right). EIN is the first website with exclusive info, plus daily photos - so click here & don't miss these special reports. (Elvis Week 2009, Source:SanjaMeegin/EIN)

Bill Cherry new 2009 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Winner: Congratulations to Bill Cherry, who was named the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist of 2009 tonight at the final round of the EPE competition. 2nd Place: Donny Edwards- winner of the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest at Pechanga Casino Resorts Preliminary Round 3rd Place: Kevin Mills - Winner of the Lake George.com Elvis Festival Preliminary Round. As EIN noted yesterday, despite the fan craziness the big news was also that Joseph Hall in the end did not make the Top 5. Congratulations to the three winners and all those who competed in the semifinal and final round of the competition in Memphis. Click here for more about the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest. (News Source;EIN/EPE)

Jerry Scheff quits TCB Band European tour: Rumours have been floating around for quite a while that Jerry Scheff wanted to get out of the European TCB Band 'Elvis The Concert' tour. A recent announcement now informs us that he has now been replaced by bassist Nathan East (right). This is shocking news as the TCB Band looses one of its key members. Elvis bass-player Duke Bardwell had also been considered for the position. Nathan East does however have a great reputation since he has worked with the likes of Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Herbie Hancock, Elton John, Anita Baker, B.B. King and Quincy Jones - along with performing at the Barack Obama Inaugural Celebration Concert "We Are One" at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. But is he part of Elvis' TCB Band? If you are in Memphis for Elvis Week make sure you get to the "Elvis 69" show to see the original TCB band together live on stage - surely not for the last time? (News, Source;EIN)

Top Elvis-soundalike Robert Washington Joins 'The Original Elvis Tribute': Memphis: As he finishes a steaming hot "My Babe" during his well-received performance last night here in Memphis, it's easy to see why Robert Washington is viewed by so many as the world's best Elvis sound-a-like. Close your eyes and you hear the unmistakable voice of The King, with all the intensity and raw emotion that marked his best work. Especially on material from the comeback era (1968 – '70), Washington’s voice is remarkably close to Presley’s. "On August 16th, 1977, I was celebrating my 19th birthday when I heard the devastating news of Elvis' death. I was absolutely gutted", he says. "People were always saying that I sounded like him, and after winning various prizes in talent contests, I started doing live shows. The reponse was just amazing". Washington is very excited about doing a Europe tour in January 2010, as part of the production 'The Original Elvis Tribute 2010'. "I'm really looking forward to coming to Europe with such a tremendous band. These guys are some of the finest players in the business. Elvis' mid-70s bassplayer Duke Bardwell is part of the band, as well as songwriter Michael Jarrett, who wrote great songs like I'm Leavin' and I'll Be Home On Christmas Day for Elvis. This is a fantastic opportunity for me". Washington is particularly pleased with the fact that this show is a genuine tribute, and not an impersonation. "No jumpsuits, man. This is the real deal. We will be performing his songs, but I will not be wearing a jumpsuit or anything like that. This is going to be a fantastic show. We will be celebrating Elvis' 75th birthday performing many of his greatest songs, and we really want to make this a show that he would have been proud of". For more information about this unique tour, please visit: www.myspace.com/theoriginalelvistribute2010 Click here for Robert Washington's performance of  ‘Let Yourself Go’: (News, Source;ArjanD)

Les Paul, the original guitar hero, dies in New York at 94: Les Paul (right) the evergreen musician and inventor who created the solid-body electric guitar which ushered-in the era of rock and roll, and went on to change the face of modern music has died. He was 94. Gibson, maker of the instruments that bear Paul’s name, announced yesterday that he had passed away overnight at White Plains hospital in New York State, following complications related to a bout of pneumonia. He will be mourned by generations of devotees of the Les Paul guitar, which first went on sale in 1952 and is still sold today, together with a cross-section of record producers who owe their success to multi-track recording techniques, which he also pioneered. Dozens of rock and roll legends rose to fame wielding his range of instruments. They range from Paul McCartney and Richie Sambora to Pete Townshend of The Who, Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin, and Steve Jones of The Sex Pistols. Though he owed his own fame to the eponymous guitar, Paul was also a popular musician in his own right. With Mary Ford, his wife from 1949 to 1962, he earned 36 gold records for hits that included "Vaya Con Dios" and "How High the Moon," which were both number ones. Many of the duo’s songs were distinguished by innovative overdubbing techniques that form one of his most significant legacies. Les Paul begun experimenting with overdubbing after the War, when Bing Crosby gave him an early tape recorder. He soon pioneered so-called multi-track recording, which allowed an artist to record different instruments and harmonies at different times, then edit them together. "Without him, it's hard to imagine how rock and roll would be played today," the late Ahmet Ertegun, founder of Atlantic Records, once said. Born Lester William Polfus on June 9, 1915, and brought up in Wisconsin, Les Paul taught himself acoustic guitar during childhood and began his professional career as a teenager, billed as Red Hot Red or Rhubarb Red. A self-confessed "tinkerer," he experimented with guitar amplification for years, before coming up in 1941 with the instrument he described as "The Log," a piece of wood strung with steel strings. "I went into a nightclub and played it. Of course, everybody had me labeled as a nut." Public reactions began to shift when Paul put wooden wings onto the body to give it a traditional guitar shape. Electric guitars gained popularity throughout the 1940s, though it wasn’t until a decade later that Gibson began production on a Les Paul. Friends yesterday described Paul as an ebullient character with a colourful sense of humour. On his induction to the Rock and Roll hall of fame in the 1980s, he joked that people might finally realise that he was a real person, as opposed to a brand of guitar. In recent years, Paul continued to play on Monday nights at New York's Iridium jazz club, where fans like as Jimmy Page, Dire Straits' Mark Knopfler, Bruce Springsteen, Eric Clapton and Eddie Van Halen came to pay tribute and occasionally sit in with him. "I cannot imagine life without Les Paul. He would walk into a room and put a smile on anyone’s face. His musical charm was extraordinary and his techniques unmatched anywhere in the world," said Henry Juszkiewicz, the Chairman of Gibson. "We will dedicate ourselves to preserving Les’ legacy to insure that it lives on forever." (News, Source;EIN) (Right: Elvis and a Gibson double-neck, based on the Les Paul SG)

Elvis fans in Melbourne, Australia don't miss this August 16th Double-Bill! The Astor Theatre in St Kilda presents a double ELVIS Sunday matinee from 2.00pm August 16th. A special double screening of  'That's The Way It Is' and 'Viva Las Vegas.' "The King struts his stuff in 'Elvis: That's The Way It Is — Special Edition', followed by the same Elvis and the same town but a very-different story, Viva Las Vegas, also starring Ann–Margret. Go here for more details. (News, Source;EIN/TonyC)

Ultimate Elvis Auction with Heritage auctions in 2010: January 8, 2010 marks the 75th anniversary of the birth of Elvis Presley and the beginning of eight months of Elvis celebrations and sales by Heritage Auctions, culminating on August 14, 2010, with an entire auction dedicated to presenting the choicest, most desirable Elvis memorabilia ever offered. The "Ultimate Elvis Auction" is scheduled for August 14, 2010 in Memphis. In addition, each auction leading up to the Ultimate Elvis Event will feature a special Everything Elvis section. The dates: March 19-21 and July 16-18 2010. (News, Source;Elvis Matters)

Elvis Presley & Michael Jackson, A legacy for the ages: August is a big month for the Kings of Pop and Rock & Roll. Michael Jackson was born in August of 1958, and Elvis Presley died in August of 1977. As we all know, Michael Jackson passed away earlier this summer at the mere age of 50, while Elvis was only 42 when he died. Now that both of the Kings have passed away, people are beginning to wonder who's "legacy" will last longer. Now, of course you have to take all of this with a grain of salt because times have changed! There is NO accurate way to gauge if MJ will remain more popular than Elvis in the long run. Each artist had an unmeasurable impact on the music world (and many other industries.) And each artist changed the way we listen to, look at, and understand music.

Jimmy Velvet talks about his book & his life "Inside The Dream": Fans will know Jimmy Velvet as a friend of Elvis’ as well as the creator of the Elvis Presley Museum and owner of one of the world's biggest collectors of rock’n’roll memorabilia. Jimmy Velvet was also a successful recording artist and personally knew almost all the major stars that you can imagine - and was also luckily an enthusiastic photographer who always had his camera with him. He toured with Chuck Berry, Buddy Holly, Jerry Lee Lewis, Little Richard – and ELVIS - just to name a few! Being a contemporary of these mega-stars he managed to capture thousands of candid photographs in a way that a press photographer couldn’t. The photographic memoirs of Jimmy Velvet’s amazing life ‘Inside The Dream’ was released in 2007. EIN’s Piers Beagley recently caught up with him to chat about his amazing journey and how he managed to take so many fabulous candid photos. As a Special Bonus EIN can get you 30% off the price of the book! Read this fascinating Interview to find out how. (Interviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

ELVIS WEEK 2009 - DAY 5 - EIN exclusive report: ‘C’mon Everybody’ and watch out Memphis because Sanja Meegin, EIN's roving reporter, is back in town once again to give us all the inside scoops on Elvis Week 2009. Day 5 was full of Elvis movies at Malco's, Sun Studios, meeting Jimmy Velvet and checking out the Elvis memorablia. Evening found time for some dancin' action as well as a nightime stroll to the Meditation Garden. EIN is the only website with exclusive info, plus daily photos - so click here & don't miss these special reports. (Elvis Week 2009, Source:SanjaMeegin/EIN)

Elvis Movie Marathons on TCM: Elvis may have left the building, but he hasn't left your TV. To mark the anniversary of Presley's passing, TCM will air a 24-hour marathon of 13 of the King's movies, starting at 6 a.m. Sunday. Shake, rattle and roll with TCM as they spin a greatest hits playlist fit for a King - a 13 movie marathon including Jailhouse Rock (1957), King Creole (1958), Fun In Acapulco (1963) and G.I. Blues (1960). Click here for TCM USA ELVIS schedule Search TCM Europe listings here (News, Source;EIN)

New 'Jailhouse Rock' CD: Advertised today on Amazon is a new import CD called Jailhouse Rock. No track details are given. Release date August 25, 2009. We can presume this to be another public domain release. Click here to Amazon for the scant details.   (News, Source;ElvisNews/Amazon)

Lisa Marie Turns to The Duchess For Support: Lisa Marie Presley and the Duchess of York has become close friends with Michael Jackson's ex-wife Lisa Marie Presley. Fergie, 49, is helping Elvis's daughter get over Jacko's death by inviting her on holiday to her £25million rented villa near Marbella, Spain. On Saturday Lisa Marie, 41, joined Fergie and Prince Andrew at Princess Beatrice's 21st birthday party. A source said: "They met in America and have become very close. "It may seem an odd combination but they get on very well and have lots in common. Sarah invited her to Bea's birthday. She came with her children and partner." (News, Source;ElvisUnlimited)

Elvis is still The King after all these years: Elvis Week is in full bloom as fans celebrate the 32nd anniversary of the King’s death on Sunday. Elvis, who died Aug. 16, 1977, would be 74 years old if he was alive today. I was 8 years old when he died. Our TV was out of commission that day, and we had the radio on. Elvis songs were playing all day and night. That was the day I really became a fan — the day he died. Elvis is an authentic Southern legend, who came from dirt poor roots to blossom into the most influential singer in American history. I regret never seeing Elvis in concert. I’ve listened to people describe their experiences, and it’s almost like listening to someone recounting a spiritual encounter. My favorite songs by Elvis are not his most popular. "It Hurts Me" tops the list followed by "It’s Now or Never," "Surrender," "If I Can Dream" and the rousing gospel number "Milky White Way." Elvis was criticized for most of the 31 movies he starred in, but the films still managed to earn money. My favorite of his movies is "Viva Las Vegas." The energy and joy emanating from Elvis when he played Lucky Jackson was palpable. To be fair, playing opposite Ann-Margret probably gave the King’s energy level a natural boost. Graceland in Memphis still welcomes more than 600,000 visitors each year. It’s an interesting tour culminating in a sobering moment at the King’s grave. My favorite memory of Elvis is watching his 1968 Comeback Special on video. I’m as heterosexual of a guy as any guy can be, but no one — man or woman — has ever looked better on TV than Elvis did when he stepped out into the round donned in black leather. Nervous at first, Elvis reminded me of

'ELVIS: Vegas '69' - Book Review: Written by Ken Sharp author of the critically acclaimed ' Writing For The King' the book tells the remarkable story of Elvis' return to the concert stage told through first-hand accounts by those lucky enough to be on hand to witness Elvis' miraculous artistic and creative rebirth. But does 'Elvis:Vegas '69' live up to its promises? EIN's Piers Beagley provides a detailed review of this absorbing and stunning book - and includes some excerpts and images. Don't miss this review - and make sure you order the book before it sells out!   (Book Reviews: Source;ElvisInfoNet)

ELVIS WEEK 2009 - Day 4 - EIN exclusive report: ‘C’mon Everybody’ and watch out Memphis because Sanja Meegin, EIN's roving reporter, is back in town once again to give us all the inside scoops on Elvis Week 2009. Sanja checked out the Elvis Hollywood exhibit as well as a Elvis' Pink Cadillac & playing with some gibson guitars. EIN is the only website with exclusive info, plus daily photos - so click here & don't miss these special reports. (EIN Elvis Week, Source:SanjaMeegin/EIN)

Weather Causes Damage At Graceland! Elvis Unlimited reported that last night just after 7, the sky over Graceland got very dark, the winds begun to whip, and the rain fell. Guests visiting Elvis' grave were asked to evacuate the property but refused. EPE employees exclusively told Elvis Unlimited that it took 15 minutes to get guests to leave the property ( for their own safety) due to the weather conditions. Staff also said, " The fans are passionate. They really love Elvis! And despite the weather, they wanted to stay." And hats off to the Graceland staff for wanting the  fans to come down from the hill until the storm ended. The Graceland staff put safety first. And from the picture shown, you can see why they were so concerned for tourists. A tree on the front lawn fell down during the storm. It fell and broke the original white wooden fence which has been at Graceland while Elvis lived there. I am sure Graceland will have this tree cleaned up and the lawn looking as beautiful as ever ASAP! Luckily no one was hurt not even a squirrel! (Thanks to Tony Stuchbury for the Graceland Squirrel!) (News, Source;ElvisUnlimited/EPEScrapbook/EIN)

IMPORTANT: 'Elvis On Tour' release on DVD: With perfect timing for Elvis Week the Turner Classic Movies website has a list of popular films (not available on dvd) that you can vote for to be produced on DVD. Today 'Elvis on Tour' is on the list at only #92. 1958's 'This Angry Age' staring Anthony Perkins is at number one but with only 6448 votes, Bogart's classic 'The African Queen' is at #2. 'Elvis On Tour' has 1206 votes so far. If everyone who visits this site today CLICKS HERE TO VOTE - we can take 'Elvis On Tour' to the top of the list in one day! Show MGM that Elvis fans care and really do want to see 'Elvis On Tour' finally released. If we can achieve a stunning set of votes then this will push MGM to release the upgraded 'Elvis On Tour Special Edition' DVD and this will get BMG to finally release the 'Elvis On Tour' CD box-set that Ernst has promised. To check out the overall MGM movie list click here or CLICK HERE TO VOTE for 'Elvis On Tour'. Votes are tallied once a day. Go ahead and vote and let your ELVIS voice be heard! (News, Source;EIN)

ELVIS WEEK 2009 - Days 2 & 3 EIN exclusive report: ‘C’mon Everybody’ and watch out Memphis because Sanja Meegin, EIN's roving reporter, is back in town once again to give us all the inside scoops on Elvis Week 2009. Sanja checked out the Elvis Army exhibit as well as a quieter Graceland before the major crowds arrived. EIN is the only website with exclusive info, plus daily photos - so click here & don't miss these special reports. (EIN Elvis Week, Source:SanjaMeegin/EIN)

Vote in EIN's latest poll:

Now for sale on eBay:

Memphis Recording Service The Rise of Elvis Presley Volume II: The long deleted 2nd volume in the critically acclaimed Memphis Recording Service series.   This is a book, DVD audio and 7" release.

MGM acetate of Elvis singing 'Baby I Don' Care': Vinyl acetates are highly sought after, particularly if they were Elvis' personal copy. The copy shown opposite is not attributed to being Elvis' own copy.

The Tupelo-Memphis Murders: A Psychological Study of Self-Destruction and Murder!: The most cryptic 'Elvis underground' book ever published with very controversial themes: murder(s) incest (an issue that will enrage some fans) FBI undercover projects nocturnal visits by men-in-black a very mysterious Government(?) agency the obligatory cover-up Rated by ElvisBookResearch as "the best Elvis conspiracy book in years".

other items currently on eBay are:

Michael Jackson w/ Elvis poster print of painting art		Elvis Owned Personal Acetate, Record "Who Needs Money"
Elvis lady's Italian charm watch		Don't Be Cruel - original 1956 sheet music

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The Memphis Lullaby album for Digital release on August 16: L.A.M. Productions are proud to announce that the album entitled, ‘The Memphis Lullaby’ will be released on August 16th 2009. ‘The Memphis Lullaby’ is Whitehaven’s debut studio album on the independent label L.A.M. Productions. The album has 14 songs all written by Linda Ann McConnell and will feature, the hit songs,‘The Memphis Lullaby’ and ‘Always.’ 

The album will be available from 170 digital stores at midnight on August 16th 2009. (News, Source: LAM)

EIN Note: EIN will publish a review of The Memphis Lullaby album in the next few days!

All 3 artworks by artist, Gerald L. Sabatini

Elvis Presley & James Dean - Original Art Oil Painting (left)

Buy It Now Price: US7,000,000.00!:

Original Oil Painting.........Buy It Now Price: US$4,200,00.00: (Middle

Original Oil Painting (Elvis with teddy bear) .........Buy It Now Price: US$4,200,00.00: (Right)

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‘Showroom Internationale 1971’ Final Details: The latest upcoming box set release from the ‘International’ label titled ‘Showroom Internationale 1971’ will be released 24th August 2009. In conjunction with ‘DAE’ this release will feature a brand new unreleased soundboard performance from the Jan/Feb 1971 Las Vegas engagement, closing night February 23rd 8pm show. The 2CD/Book set will also feature the January 28th Midnight show (previously released on the Fort Baxter label as ‘Lean Mean and Kicking Butt’) but this time, unlike before, it is directly mastered from the original reel tapes thus clearly showing vast noticeable sound improvements to its original release. All the audio restoration and remastering are by DAE. This package also has an accompanying 100-page glossy hardback book featuring great unreleased photographs from the time, as well as a detailed essay encapsulating the actual engagement in January / February which help in putting this time-frame into some historical perspective by looking at what went before and afterwards. This will be the last major release from the International label and the fabulous box set release has only a limited edition run of 999 copies. Preview tracks can be heard on Elvis–Express radio this Friday and next. Preview copies have already been seen in Memphis. Click here for full updated details & tracklists. (News, Source;International)

More videos added to the EPE Elvis Legacy project: Elton Holland - Elton worked for Malco Theatres when Elvis would come in after-hours with friends to watch movies. Jim "Rip" Fanning - Rip met Elvis when he was about 15 years old. He talks about Elvis' love of music and touch football. Margaret DeMoville - Margaret shares her stories of seeing Elvis perform in both 1956 and 1957 in Tupelo. Go here to view the videos: (News, Source;EIN/EPE)

Elvis Week 'Conversations on Elvis and Cirque du Soleil': At Conversations on Elvis - Session Two, in addition to hearing all about Elvis in Vegas in 1969, you’ll also find out about Elvis in Vegas in 2009! As you already know, very soon, Elvis will once again reign over the glittering city in a spectacular performance presented by Cirque du Soleil. In collaboration with EPE Inc. and MGM MIRAGE, the show is destined to be the star attraction at the Las Vegas Strip’s newest mega-resort, ARIA Resort & Casino at CityCenter, due to open in December 2009. As part of Conversations on Elvis - Session Two, Cirque du Soleil Executive Producer Stéphane Mongeau, Director of Creation Armand Thomas and Production Manager Mike Anderson will give an exclusive first look at the new creation. The production aims to pay tribute to Elvis’ music and life, fusing dance and acrobatics, live music and iconic tracks, nostalgia and modernity, high technology and raw emotion. In short, the show will be in Elvis’ image: powerful, sexy, whimsical and truly unique. In addition to hearing some fascinating details on the production, those in the audience will also be among the first in the world to see some fun, behind-the-scenes video of the preparations that are currently taking place. Conversations on Elvis 2 is on Sat August 15 at 1:00 p.m. at the Memphis Cannon Center. Go here for more info (News, Source;EPE/EIN)

'Stripped Of My Heart, My Soul' new CD out now: 36 years after it was recorded the Rainbow Records import release "Stripped Of My Heart, My Soul" has been released. It features Elvis Presley's complete performance recorded in Atlanta, Georgia on recorded July 3, 1973. Tracklist:1. 2001 Theme 2. C.C. Rider 3. I Got A Woman / Amen 4. Help Me Make It Through The Night 5. Steamroller Blues 6. You Gave Me A Mountain 7. Love Me 8. Blue Suede Shoes 9. Medley: Long Tall Sally / Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' on / Mama Don't Dance/Flip, Flop and Fly/Jailhouse Rock 10. My Way 11. How Great Thou Art 12. Hound Dog 13. Fever 14. Something 15. All Shook Up 16. Memphis, Tennessee 17. What Now My Love 18. Suspicious Minds 19. Introductions 20. I'll Remember You 21. I Can't Stop Loving You 22. Release Me 23. An American Trilogy 24. A Big Hunk O' Love 25. Can't Help Falling In Love 26. Closing Vamp (News, Source;Email)

'Elvis and Gladys' author gives back to Tupelo: Last month it was announced that Elaine Dundy, author of the acclaimed "Elvis and Gladys," bequeathed $600,000 to establish the 'Elaine Dundy and Roy Turner Endowment Fund for the Arts'. Roy Turner, a Tupelo native, (right: at the announcement) was an amateur historian when Dundy came to Northeast Mississippi in 1981 to research her book about Elvis Presley. "She paid me $5 an hour and gave me the most fantastic summer of my life," he said at the announcement of the gift at the CREATE Foundation, which will administer the endowment. That summer led to a lasting friendship between Roy Turner and Dundy. She also developed an affinity for Tupelo. Shortly before she left London to research her book, Dundy had a drug overdose. Turner said she found much-needed comfort in Elvis' hometown. "She told her friends that coming to Tupelo and getting to know the people of Tupelo literally saved her life," Dundy was a well-known author before she began work on "Elvis and Gladys." Her first two novels, "The Dud Avocado" and "The Old Man and Me," recently have been released as New

Rosanne (TCB) Elvis fan passed away: It is with great sadness that EIN has learnt that on July 22nd Rosanne Utmom/Solomon, one of the nicest members of the TCB World website and keen Elvis fan, suddenly passed away. She was a great Elvis fan, a great person and her lighthearted posts brightened everyone's day. She is sadly missed by all and of course especially by her family. R.I.P. Rosanne. 4.27.59 - 7.22.09. EIN sends its condolences and for those wishing to send words to her family there is a special MB set up, click here. (News, Source;Franny/TCBWorld).

'ELV1S 30#1 Hits' Limited Edition Collector's Crate: Released on August 18, 2009 is this mini crate, T-Shirt and slip-sleeve CD of 'ELV1S 30#1 Hits'. Described as a "CD + T-Shirt + Crate= Must Have Fan Pack!" With a CD, artist t-shirt and custom storage crate, each Limited Edition Collector's Crates package is a fun-filled fan experience that's priced right and time perfectly for the 2009 holiday gift-giving season! Release Date: August 18, 2009. Click here for more info.     (News, Source;Amazon)

John Krondes and the Elvis "Hit-Making Team" new CD & Memphis launch: From the Press Release>>> In a breathe of New Life, the unmistaken Memphis Sound is back in full force.  For the first time since the death of Elvis Presley in 1977, the King's entire "Hit Making Team" has returned to the recording studio with singer/songwriter John Krondes to make new music and keep the dream alive. Nearly Ten Years in the making, and recorded in studios all across America; dedication determination, Inspiration from fans and the love for Elvis has fueled the fire for the "Hit Making Team" to keep moving toward the goal of bringing the Memphis Rock Sound back to deserving loyal fans.  Now a dream has become a "New Beginning" for the King and the re-creation of the successful musical operation that Elvis Presley had built and spearheaded for over Twenty Years.  Joe Esposito of the Memphis Mafia is the Chairman and Godfather of the Elvis "Hit Making Team". John Krondes and the "Hit Making Team" salute the King and dedicate the epic new CD THE END A New Beginning as a fresh start and New Beginning for the music. Significantly, this new reunion CD is the first commerical recording by the original Presley "Hit Team" since the king's passing 32 Years ago. Featured in the new recordings are all of Elvis Presley's vocal groups: the Jordanaires, the former original Stamps Quartet, Imperials, and Sweet Inspirations.  Both of the King's Bands rock the house for the comeback; included are the TCB Band and the American Studios Band - "The Memphis Boys".  Elvis '

New JAT Special Product a 'Vince Everett" CD: JAT Special Product announces the release of a new CD in 10 days from now. All the details are available on the flyer. "Vince Everett" - the Elvis sound-a-like performer - was a pseudonym of singer Marvin Benefield who recorded for ABC-Paramount and in a strange coincidence his records were produced by Felton Jarvis.       (News, Source:EIN/JATProductions)

ELVIS WEEK 2009 - EIN exclusive report: ‘C’mon Everybody’ and watch out Memphis because Sanja Meegin, EIN's roving reporter, is back in town once again to give us all the inside scoops on Elvis Week 2009. While it officially starts Saturday August 8th, Sanja arrived hot from LA and Vegas to check out the calm-before-the-storm. While a little quiet, there are a few new nice displays worth checking out. Sanja also met up with a tired George Klein who had been working his show on Sirius Radio. EIN is the only website with exclusive info, plus daily photos - so click here & don't miss these special reports. (Elvis Week 2009, Source:SanjaMeegin/EIN)

"The Car Elvis Killed" on display in California: Elvis Presley once put a bullet in it, and now you can see it up close and personal. The 1971 De Tomaso Pantera formerly owned by the King of Rock ’n’ Roll will be on display at Italian Concourse as part of its tribute to De Tomaso Automobili and the Pantera at the event’s Centrepiece Display on Friday, August 14, in Monterey, Calif, as one of the kickoffs to the area’s historic race weekend. Built to replace the De Tomaso Mangusta, and designed by Tom Tjaarda, the Pantera was the first De Tomaso made with a steel monocoque design. Not quite on the Ferrari or Lamborghini level despite its sultry Italian coachwork, it created a new niche between exoticars and American muscle cars. With a sleek body and hot performance to challenge Ferrari, the Pantera was powered by a Ford V-8 instead of an alloy V-12. The De Tomaso Pantera featured at Concorso demonstrates Presley’s passion for both guns and cars. In a fit of rage, Elvis shot his Pantera several times when he lost patience at the car not starting. (It is unknown whether gunfire motivated the car to start the next time.) The two bullet holes on the steering wheel rim and one in the floor pan were never repaired and now serve as reminders of the star’s occasional hot temper. To make amends, Presley is rumored to have bought his Pantera a brand new Cadillac. (News, Source:ElvisUnlimited)

'Elvis: Memphis And Beyond' new DVD: This is the cover art of the upcoming 4 DVD set "Elvis: To Memphis & Beyond". This set is due for release September 29, 2009.       (News, Source:ElvisClubBerlin/ ElvisNews)

Elvis Week 2009 - 32 page Event Guide now available online: Elvis Week 2009 runs from Sat 8 Aug to Sunday 16 August 2009 EPE advises its FREE online Elvis Week guide can now be downloaded: Whether you are able to come to Memphis for Elvis Week or not, you can still check out the 2009 Elvis Week Event Guide that will be handed out here in Memphis with the latest details on events, products, Elvis news and more. Please note the link is a large file 15Mg and may take a few minutes to open or download. Click to view the guide

Priscilla has first look at upcoming Elvis Cirque du Soleil Elvis production: Priscilla Presley had her first look at the Cirque du Soleil show inspired by the life and music of Elvis Presley in Montreal yesterday. The 78 cast members will head to Las Vegas on Friday to start rehearsals on stage in the new theatre at ARIA Resort & Casino at CityCenter.

You can check out some video about the show here or, if you plan on being at Elvis Week 2009, you can experience a special presentation by Cirque du Soleil Executive Producer Stéphane Mongeau, Director of Creation Armand Thomas and Production Manager Mike Anderson at Conversations on Elvis, Segement Two on Saturday, August 15 at 10:00 a.m. You can find more information about this segment here. (News, Source: EPE)

Elvis items sell at auction: The auction house 'Gotta Have Rock and Roll' just closed their latest memorabilia auction, including several Elvis (related) items. Some of the items were unsold, but the largest part changed from owner for a much higer price than the estimated prices. The most expensive item is a two-piece outfit that Elvis used in the 70s. The pants and jacket are sold for $55,152 (€38.407). (News, Source: Elvis Matters)

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'From Elvis In Memphis' 40th anniversary release hits US charts: The 40th Anniversary Edition of "From Elvis In Memphis" Legacy Edition has made the charts in the US:

Herald newspaper celebrates Elvis Week with mystery serial: It's all about Elvis, again, isn't it?

For the non-Elvis folks, next week is commonly referred to as "Elvis Week" and leads up to the anniversary of his death Aug. 16, 1977. We Elvis folk at the Daily Journal offer you some fun during local "Elvis Week" with a mystery serial starting Sunday. Its writing was an adventure in itself, with nine staffers each taking a spin with a chapter, then turning the tale over to the next one to craft the succeeding episode.

Part of the fun of writing this tale -- "A 'Hunka, Hunka' Trouble" -- is not knowing what you're going to get. Each of us developed characters, events and twists and turns, so that at least twice per chapter we felt some surprise about it -- the surprise when we received the preceding chapter and our own surprise at how we left off for the next writer.

It's not Faulkner or Agatha Christie, but it's entertaining.

Speaking of Elvis, August marks the one-year anniversary of Elvis' boyhood Assembly of God Church at The Birthplace. The building was moved a few blocks from its original site in East Tupelo and was painstakingly restored to the state as believed when Elvis got some of his first musical influences there. Inside the clapboard building, you'll see an excellent three-screened depiction of a typical worship service attended by Vernon, Gladys and Elvis Presley when he was about 8. While I suggest that the young future King of Rock 'n' Roll should have had blond hair, instead of the dark hair of the film's child actor, it's still a sweet program for every Elvis fan.

If you haven't been through the museum lately, too, the revamp is well done and truly helps explain to the Elvis-educated and uneducated about Tupelo of the 1930s, his family and his influences. Especially interesting are the photos showing local scenes and people, as well as the Presley family at special events. While I was over there Wednesday, it was charming to look up and see at least one slender young man very deliberately clad in jeans and jeans-jacket with the trademark Elvis hairdo. Sweet sight to me.

In preparation for "Elvis Week," I'm going to dust off my copy of my favorite of his movies, "Loving You" with Dolores Hart. Hart appeared in one other movie with Elvis, and six years later became a Catholic nun. I don't believe other leading ladies, like Mary Ann Mobley and Ann Margret, had similar reactions to their pop stardom. The music in this film is really classic early-Elvis, and the movie mirrors his own early career. It also is the only movie his parents appeared in -- part of the audience in the big movie climax. Story goes that after his mother died, Elvis never watched the movie again.

Well, I'm going to. (News, Source: Patsy R. Brumfield, djournal.com)

Elvis brought to life in new "Lonely Street" film: In what will be its only theatrical booking prior to its DVD release next week on the Echo Bridge Home Entertainment label, "Lonely Street" opens Friday at the Hollywood 20 Cinema, in an attempt to attract the fans who are in town for "Elvis Week." The movie -- a comic murder mystery that casts Robert Patrick as a healthy, septuagenarian Elvis -- ends its exclusive run on Aug. 16, which marks the 32nd anniversary of Presley's death. The booking was arranged by John Jerit, whose Bartlett-based American Paper Optics company is one of the nation's largest suppliers of paper 3D glasses. Jerit and his wife, Susan Jerit, are credited as co-executive producers on "Lonely Street" because Jerit was one of the prime investors in the $1.7-million film, which was shot by writer-director Peter Ettinger in New Mexico and on sets in Los Angeles. The direct-to-DVD route taken by "Lonely Street" seems inevitable. The movie's star (and co-producer) is Jay Mohr, who plays Bubba Mabry, an Albuquerque-by-way-of-Mississippi "two-bit gumshoe" (as he is called in the film) introduced in a series of novels (book cover shown opposite) by Steve Brewer. (The movie pays homage to Mabry's creater by having the detective visit the "Brewer Library.")

With its bright lighting (even night scenes feature an attractive neon glow) and cast of familiar-faced non-marquee names (former "Ghostbuster" Ernie Hudson; Joe Mantegna as a sleazy record producer; Mohr's wife, Nikki Cox, as a cleavage-exposing cougar newshound), "Lonely Street" plays sort of like an unsold comedy-mystery TV pilot that was retrofitted with profanity and jokes about vomit, flatulence and genitalia in hopes of attracting theatrical interest. The occasional gross-out humor (complete with sound effects) is the worst thing about the film; it's sometimes accompanied by Mohr's often redundant voiceover narration, much of which seems to have written in post-production, in an attempt to spice up the action.

For example, the scene in which Bubba meets his mysterious client is directed to that the audiences shares the sleuth's shock when "Mr. Aaron" is revealed to be Elvis Presley. The narration almost wrecks the scene, however, by telling the audience what it can see with its own eyes; it's like sitting in front of a guy at the movies who says things like "He's got a gun" when a character onscreen draws a gun.

That "Lonely Street" nevertheless emerges as okay sub-Elmore Leonard entertainment is due primarily to Patrick's dignified, respectful interpretation of the 70-something Elvis as a man who's given up drugs and fried foods for wheat grass, Tai Chi and, apparently, inner peace.

An interesting companion piece to another Bubba/Elvis movie, "Bubba Ho-tep," a horror-comedy that cast Bruce Campbell as a senior-citizen Presley, "Lonely Street" finds Elvis contemplating a comeback after faking his death three decades earlier -- a disappearance that enabled him to escape the self-parody of his final years while becoming a bigger star than ever before. "I'm everywhere and nowhere, all at the same time," he says. "People like Elvis again."

Unfortunately, even in "death," Elvis has to cope with intrusive tabloid photographers, so he hires Mabry to watch out for him -- a move that eventually turns both the detective and the King into murder suspects.

Despite being basically unrecognizable in remarkable prosthetic makeup created by Alec Gillis and Tom Woodruff Jr., Patrick is able to put across Elvis' thoughtfulness as well as his humor -- and in a convincing Elvis accent, too. "Jesus, it really is you!" a reporter (Lindsay Price) exclaims after meeting the King. Replies Elvis: "I'm not Jesus, but I appreciate the comparison." (Celluloid Elvis, Source: California Chronicle)

Visit the official Elvis site for more info

Annual Elvis is Alive 5K run in Chicago: Dress up as the King for the 12th annual non-competitive run (we recommend blue suede shoes, mutton chops and a cape). Meet on the bike path across from the Columbia Yacht Club (near Randolph Street and Lake Shore Drive). A post-race party includes beer, food and live music featuring Joe "Elvis" Tirrito and the Anthony Smith Guitar Street Orchestra. Rain or shine. Registration: Sign up at the race starting at 4 p.m. Thursday. Prices increase the week of Aug. 3 to $30.

When: August 6 : 6:45 p.m...........................Price: $25-$30. Register: fleetfeetchicago.com

Bill Clinton negotiates freedom of US journalists using Elvis items: Bill Clinton returns to the US with freed North Korean prisoners. Weekly World News has acquired a transcript of his exchange with Kim Jong Il. This morning former President Bill Clinton returned on a plane with two American journalists who had been taken prisoner for entering North Korea illegally. Their release was brokered by Clinton in a private meeting he had with the North Korean leader Kim Jong Il. Last week Bill Clinton took it upon himself to fly to North Korea without the blessing of the White House or Washington DC. Flying into Pyonyang the President met with Kim Jong Il to broker the release of the two American prisoners.

Seeing an advantage Clinton offered some rare Elvis memorabilia in exchange for the journalists. Secret Service agents produced the last sequined jumpsuit ever worn by The King in concert. Then they produced an identical replica Clinton had made before leaving, which was fit to Kim Jong Ils measurements. Jong Il was very pleased at this offering. To further sweeten the deal, and to get Jong Ils promise to renew discussions on nuclear weapons, Clinton even threw in rare photographs of Elvis during his first black belt Karate test. These are some of the only known photographs to show a fully grown Elvis being thrown around like a rag doll.

Within hours Clinton was on a plane with the two released journalists. He and the two young ladies were said to enjoy the ride on his private jet, which is the only Former Presidential jet to be equipped with its own dance floor.

Kim Jong Il is said to still be running through his palatial home, wearing his Elvis replica jumpsuit and practicing Karate. (News, Source: Weekly World News)

EIN Note: The foregoing story is a satire and the photo is clearly "photoshopped"!

Could Michael Jackson outdo Elvis in merchandise sales?: Don’t look now but Michael Jackson jeans may soon be in a store near you. According to an Associated Press report, Michael Jackson products may become a reality if a probate judge signs off on a merchandising deal with the singer’s estate. The proposed contracts give an indication of how the King of Pop may be merchandised in the coming months and years. Among the items bandied about are trading cards, T-shirts, calendars, lighters, stuffed animals that play Jackson’s music and digital games, as well as denim products and high-end clothing lines, according to the filings.

Despite a tainted legacy while he was alive, some believe Jackson will even top The King, Elvis Presley, in annual merchandise sales. Presley’s estate generated $55 million in revenue last year, $14 million of which came from retail sales.

EIN Comment: It would not be surprisingly if Jackson comes in at #1 on this year's Forbes' Top Earning Dead Celebrities listing (assuming it retains its October to October reporting period - the 12 months measured has varied since the list's introduction in 2001). Regardless, the real test will be how sales of MJ merchandise hold up in future years.

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Love Me Tender – The Love Songs of Elvis coming to a USA Public Television station near you: Elvis Presley was known as the undisputed King of Rock and Roll, but his true stealth weapon was his arsenal of love songs. Making its television debut is a new documentary, which looks at this warm side of the King. Narrated by Ashley Judd, Love Me Tender – The Love Songs of Elvis presents Presley as you’ve never seen him. It premieres in August on public television stations across the country.

Millions of words have been written attempting to analyze, explain, decipher and translate Elvis Presley’s unique hold over his audience – especially his female audience. But it cannot be charted on a graph. Elvis reached into the heart of the listener and made an immediate and lasting impact.

Elvis’ impact on the women of the world has never been truly measured or calculated. But the anecdotal record of his effect on women music fans around the world showed a lasting and overwhelming Elvis love tsunami. He struck an immediate chord in the hearts of his female followers. Women loved him, and still do.

“After living with this project for six months,” said executive producer Bill Carter, “I clearly understand why Elvis had such appeal to women worldwide. The focus on love songs reveals the sensitivity and tenderness of his personality and the passion he expressed in the delivery of these songs came straight from the heart.”

Love Me Tender is produced by Coming Home Television Productions, in conjunction with Elvis Presley Enterprises – the same people who brought public television viewers He Touched Me: The Gospel Music of Elvis Presley and ELVIS LIVES: The 25th Anniversary Concert. It is produced and directed by Michael Merriman. Executive producers are Barry Jennings and Bill Carter.

Love Me Tender – The Love Songs of Elvis is available at the shops at Graceland and can currently be pre-ordered on ShopElvis.com here. 

Check here for guide to broadcast times and cities

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"Elvis On Tour '72" - a new Praytome Publishing project with photos by Ed Bonja: Because high-quality cameras and films were still very expensive for fans in the early 1970’s, we have few good live shots of Elvis from this period of his career. Because most fans used the then-popular Instamatic Cameras, Elvis can be seen, for the most part, as only a thumbnail or just a small, white mark on the print. Because photographers such as George Hill, Keith Alverson, Shean Shaver or the recently-deceased Harold Newton used 35mm cameras, fans were, for the first time, introduced to very good quality photos. A rumor has persisted that “Praytome Publishing" has been working on a book with live shots from the year 1972. Today, we gladly put this rumor to rest with the announcement that we have, indeed, begun work on such a book: “Elvis Covering the Nation ’72.” The work began several weeks ago with the photographs of Ed Bonja, the official Tour Manager and Photographer for the Elvis Presley Show during the 1970’s. Bonja’s photos are well known world-wide, because Colonel Tom Parker chose many of his photos as cover shots for Elvis’ LP Albums and Singles. Bonja met Elvis for the first time during the shooting of "Girl Happy" in 1964 and later worked with the king on tours during the 70's, as well as in Las Vegas and Lake Tahoe, where he took over 8,000 photos of Elvis and the tour happenings. Many of these photos remain unpublished even today.

For more exclusive updates visit Epgold or www.praytome-publishing.com website. (News, Source: EP Gold)

Elvis is feature article in latest Record Collector magazine: This is what everyone can read, for the complete article you'll need to go to the shop or subscribe to the magazine: "Later this year, one of the biggest collections of Elvis Presley records in the country – and maybe the world – will be put up for sale. “I’ve reached the end of the road, really. I’ve literally got everything,” says proud owner Steve Lacey. “At this stage, there are only a few things that I’m missing and unlikely to get. I’d like to think that there’s someone out there who would buy a collection that has a copy of every single, LP, CD and box set that Elvis has ever released.” Steve started collecting at the (love me) tender age of 11 and, 32 years later, has a complete collection of every record released by Elvis Presley worldwide. “My mum had two Elvis records in the house,” he recalls, “which were How Great Thou Art and You’ll Never Walk Alone. I remember the day Elvis died, I was upstairs in my bedroom and she shouted up that he was dead. I played those two records the next day and started collecting on 17 August 1977 – the day after he died. “The first records I bough were a Sun collection and the Moody Blue LP. Now, 32 years later, I’m still up at quarter-to-four in the morning, bidding on records on the internet!”" (News, Source: Record Collector /Elvis News)

The Boss Pays Tribute to the King! Check out Elvis Matters for more info

Upcoming book release in Germany: The 384 book "Elvis Presley" will be released by the German Paragon-Verlag in December 2009. This biography should contain over 400 unpublished photo's according to the press-release (ISBN: 1407580973). (News, Source: Elvis News)

The Beatles recorded and performed a sizeable clutch of songs by the US rock’n’roll/R’n’B artists who opened the door and influenced them as music-hungry teenagers growing up in ’50s Liverpool. Here, in their original versions, Uncut magazine presents 15 non-Lennon/McCartney compositions that soundtracked the birth of The Beatles more than half a century ago.

"Elvis Presley - "Baby Let’s Play House"

"Recorded in Memphis for Sun in ’55, this was the song that gave Elvis his first US chart entry. Lennon later borrowed the lyric “I’d rather see you dead, little girl, than to be with another man,” for the opening line of “Run For Your Life” on Rubber Soul." (News, Source: Uncut/Elvis News)

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'Elvis - The Collection' 7CD boxset: Here is the cover artwork for the forthcoming 7 CD boxset from Sony BMG.   The albums are: Christmas Album NBC- TV Special From Elvis In Memphis Elvis Presley Blue Hawaii Moody Blue Elvis Country

Elvis Presley and the Original Rock 'n' Roll Kings 3CD set: Released in June 2009 by Big Three/Trad Alive (ASIN: B001FOIEXK). Buy from Amazon

New Elvis style karaoke albums from JAK label: Released earlier this year were 2 volumes in this series.   Buy from Amazon

Elvis song on The Roots of Bob Dylan CD/DVD boxset: Released by 101 Distribution is this 3CD (60 songs) and DVD boxset. Elvis', That's All Right, Mama, is one of the CD tracks. (News, Source: Amazon)

Elvis items announced in upcoming auction: Heritage Auction Galleries has announced it's 2009 November Signature Music & Entertainment Auction. As of now there are only 9 Elvis related items on the auction block. Since consignment is open until mid September more may be added. The bidding begins on October 19, 2009. Two of the auction pieces, the Tiger Eye Ring (see picture) and Monogrammed Lighter come from the collection of Claude Thompson. Claude was Elvis' choreographer on the 68 Comeback Special. Claude Thompson passed away in May of 2007. Also up for auction (again, from the JD Sumner Auction) is a contract signed by both Elvis and JD in November of 1971. The entire Elvis catalogue has 10 items so far, but more may be added. (News, Source: Elvis Matters/EP Gold)

Augusta gearing up for "Jailhouse Rock": Augusta Amusements announces the return of its "Classic Movie Night" series with a screening of the 1957 Elvis Presley classic "Jailhouse Rock" on Saturday at 7 p.m.

"Augusta Amusements is back up and running after a 40-plus-year rest. Our first event is a classic movie at the Imperial Theatre when we will re-screen the 1957 'Jailhouse Rock,' and after the movie, Jason Sikes along with the Sassy Brass Band, will take the stage and perform about 30 minutes of Elvis' hits," said Michael Deas of Augusta Amusements. "Augusta Amusements has a rich history in our community owning/managing theaters in downtown Augusta from 1931 until 1968. Our goal is to bring classic movies back to the community and maybe small concerts from time to time."

"Jailhouse Rock" was Elvis's third movie and his first for MGM. Arguably the best of Elvis Presley's pre-Army films, it showcases the sensual, "dangerous" Elvis who had won the hearts of American kids while earning the animosity of their elders. Usually, the musical numbers in an Elvis Presley movie are more compelling than the plot. But "Jailhouse Rock" is a balance of song and story from beginning to end; seldom would Elvis be so well showcased in the future.

A particular feature of this film is the classic production number to the title song, "Jailhouse Rock." It's a doozy, complete with chorus boys dressed as convicts. It's become one of rock'n'roll's most iconic moments on film, a performance considered by many to be well ahead of its time and the father of modern day music videos.

After the screening of "Jailhouse Rock," Elvis impersonator Jason Sikes, accompanied by The Sassy Brass Band, takes the stage to continue this "Evening of Elvis" in a very personal way. Jason, born in Gloverville in 1977, grew up on Elvis. As a kindergartener, Jason was already performing Elvis routines on playground picnic tables during recess. He entered and won an Elvis contest in 1998 and has been a Memphis world finalist every year since.

Jason has appeared on MTV and in television commercials, as well as on radio stations in Augusta and many large venues throughout the Southeast. Jason has opened concerts for the Marshall Tucker Band, Joe Diffie and .38 Special. Jason's Elvis show has an air of utter authenticity, and it's marked by the same energy that Elvis brought to his own performances.

Concert goers are encouraged to dress in 1950s attire (or Elvis outfits of any era) and to walk the red carpet at the entrance to Augusta's historic Imperial Theatre.

Tickets for this event, available through the Imperial Theatre box office at (706) 722-8341 or online at www.imperialtheatre.com, are just $10 each. A limited number of Golden Horseshoe tickets are available for $15. The ticket price includes the screening at the Imperial and a mini concert by Jason Sikes and The Sassy Brass Band. Doors to the Imperial Theatre open at 6 p.m. and the movie begins at 7 p.m.

On the Web, visit Augusta Amusements at www.augustaamusements.com or the Imperial at www.imperialtheatre.com.

What? Elvis Presley in Jailhouse Rock with Elvis Impersonator Jason Sikes and the Sassy Brass Band after the Movie

When? Aug. 8 at 7 p.m.

Where? Imperial Theatre (News, Source: aikenstandard.com)

Advanced Elvis Course (Book Review): Just when you thought it was safe to venture into the book store, along comes an irreverent, offbeat and at times very funny pilgrimage around Memphis. Author and essentially Elvis philosopher, CA Conrad, has written a book which is verey different to most other books published around Elvis. What makes Conrad's tour so special? Click here to find out (Book Review, Source: EIN)

Sun pioneer dies: Elvis Unlimited is sad to report that at 5:20 AM CST on August 2, 2009, Sun Recording artist Billy Lee Riley passed away. Bill Lee Riley has been battling stage four colon cancer since May. His cancer had spread to his bones. Billy Lee was admitted to St. Bernard's Medical Center in Jonesboro,Arkansas on Saturday. His wife Joyce was shocked by his death early Sunday morning at 5:20 AM. But says he went peacefully. She also said they did not see the end coming. Especially since he had been feeling better lately. Billy Lee was 75 years old. Billy Lee Riley was born on October 5, 1933 in Pocahontas, Arkansas. His father was a sharecropper and the family lived on plantations.

In the early sixties, he moved to Los Angeles and worked with various artists including Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr, and the Beach Boys. In 1969, Billy Lee returned to Sun Records which had been sold and worked under Shelby Singleton. By the 70's he returned to normal life in Arkansas and had a very minor role in music. In 1992, he was rediscovered by Bob Dylan. Dylan considered Billy Lee a hero. In 1997, Billy Lee's album, Hot Damn was considered for a Grammy. In 2005, he had a slip and fall accident at a local store and suffered a broken hip. He had two surgeries. In 2006, he released a country CD titled, Hillbilly Rockin Man.

He played the Memphis In May celebration in 2007 in Memphis, TN. His final performance came in June of this year, where he appeared with his old Sun label mate Sonny Burgess during an event at the Rock and Soul Museum in Memphis, TN. Riley is survived by his wife, Joyce, their daughter Angela Johns, and three children from his first marriage, Erin Riley, Wendy Kennedy, and Darron Riley. Funeral arrangements are pending. On August 30th, there will be a memorial show in Newport, Arkansas featuring Sonny Burgess and the Pacers, WS Holland and his band, Travis Wammack, Carl Mann, Smoochy Smith, Ace Cannon and his band, Jr. Rogers, Warren Crow, J. M. VanEaton, Dale Hawkins, C. W. Gattin, and the Blues Brothers Band.

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Where is 'From Elvis In Memphis' "downunder"?: While many Australian music outlets do not have From Elvis In Memphis ‘40th Anniversary Legacy’ edition in stock, as usual JB Hi-Fi can be relied on to have copies in stock in most stores.  The retailer is also selling the release below full price at $27.95.  The 2CD album comes with an informative color booklet including rare visuals from the recording sessions and liner notes from rock identity, Robert Gordon and Tara McAdams.  The 2nd disc includes the Original Mono Masters and while there has been some criticism of this, it is completely undeserved as the Masters are as fresh and crisp today as they were all those years ago when many of us were young(er).  If you buy just one Elvis album in 2009 this is the one!! It's a beauty!!!

Sony BMG will release Elvis 30 CD boxset: According to a posting on FECC, Sony states:

"Ernst Jorgensen is working on a 30 CD Box Set that will contain all official masters as released during Elvis' life time with another 3 or 4 hours of the most interesting alternate takes, demos, live recordings, home recordings. The set will be USA made and a limited edition to less than 10,000 units.

Ernst Jorgensen : This is a one shot deal. It's coming, it's here, it's gone as Colonel Parker would say. It will be 30 CDs in a very prestigious packaging with a fantastic book with it. USA made limited edition less than 10,000. It's killed me for 15 months now. The work load has been absurd but I could not deny it. I could not deny being a part of that. To me, it is the most astonishing wonderful idea. Here's a whole definition at this time is that it is all official masters as released during Elvis' life time with another 3 or 4 hours (and we have to define that) of the most interesting alternate takes, demos, live recordings, home recordings. There will not be 1 unreleased element on that box because that would be brutally unfair and only encourage bootlegging. You have to want to own that thing. We're not taking you as hostages. But at the same time, it is also a total restoration of every Elvis master with new digital technology."

Retail Cost believed to be around US$1,000.00!

Elvis Presley’s 1969 Music Is “Ghetto” Fabulous: At 34 years old, Elvis Presley was riding a wave of renewed interest when he returned to Memphis for several recording sessions in early 1969. Just weeks earlier, his landmark ‘68 Comeback Special found him in superb voice and boisterous spirits. Suddenly, millions of curious TV viewers wondered what was coming next. Forty years later, who could forget? “In the Ghetto,” “Kentucky Rain” and “Suspicious Minds” — all recorded in Memphis — became his first million-selling singles in nearly eight years. From Elvis in Memphis: The Legacy Edition, a two-disc set released on July 28, compiles all of the recordings from those invigorating sessions at American Studios. More importantly, it captures a moment in time when Presley took his creative direction from producer Chips Moman, who refused to back down to Col. Tom Parker or anyone else in Presley’s entourage.

Presley’s attitude and charisma in “Wearin’ That Loved On Look” and “Only the Strong Survive” are completely endearing and I can almost picture him crooning “I’ll Hold You in My Heart” with a smirk, taking himself only half-seriously. Country fans may recognize songs like “I’m Movin’ On,” “Gentle on My Mind,” “True Love Travels on a Gravel Road,” “Any Day Now” and “From a Jack to a King,” yet nobody sings them quite like Elvis. That’s why this anniversary collection is essential to anyone interested in Presley’s musical legacy. (CD Review, Source: Craig Shelburne, CMT)

Sixth Annual Elvis Film Festival: The countdown has begun! Dust off the blue suede shoes, prepare for the ultimate journey down memory lane and enjoy a day with hundreds of fans from around the world with Malco Theatres’ Elvis Film Festival! The sixth annual Elvis Film Festival, is scheduled for Tuesday, August 11, 2009 during Elvis Week®, at Studio on the Square in Midtown Memphis. This year’s festival salutes Fun in Acapulco, Roustabout and returning fan favorites Jailhouse Rock and King Creole. Tickets are $5 each and can be purchased at the theatre box office or online at www.malco.com.  All proceeds from the festival will benefit the Elvis Presley® Charitable Foundation.   Festival Schedule: Screen #1 10am Jailhouse Rock 12 noon Fun in Acapulco 2pm Roustabout 4:10pm Jailhouse Rock Screen #4 10:15am Roustabout 12:30pm King Creole 3pm Fun in Acapulco For additional information, please contact Karen Scott, Malco Theatres Marketing Director, at 901.761.3480 or karen@malco.com.   Malco Theatres is headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee and is fourth-generation family-owned and operated. Malco operates over 300 screens in 31 locations across the mid-south. Visit EIN's "Celluloid Elvis" page

Elvis 101: How to Appreciate an Elvis Movie: In Memphis, the anniversary of Elvis Presley's death on Aug. 16, 1977, has transformed over the years from pilgrimage into a weeklong celebration of the King's life and career. In Chicago, Facets Multimedia, for nearly 35 years a bastion for film as an art form, is getting into the act with a midnight screening Aug. 8 of "Viva Las Vegas" as part of its Facets Night School cult and genre film series. Susan Doll (shown opposite), who has a doctorate in film from Northwestern University and is the author of "Elvis for Dummies" and several other books about Presley, will introduce the film with a crash course in "Elvis 101: How to Appreciate an Elvis Movie." In a phone interview, Doll talked about why "Viva Las Vegas" makes the grade.

Q: Why "Viva Las Vegas?"

A: My first choice was "King Creole," but it's summer, and I decided to show one of the musical comedies, something lighthearted. I think the music in this one is really cool. A lot of males come to Facets Night School, and I know that Ann-Margret will be just their ticket. She really matches Elvis shake for shake.


Q: Where do you rank this movie in the Presley canon?

A: It's the high point of the Presley travelogues, which is what he disparagingly called his musical comedies. He would play a race-car driver, or a boat pilot, or an airline pilot, who dropped into some exotic vacation locale and woo the girl.

Q: What will you be talking about before the film?

A: The positive virtues of Elvis' movies. They're universally denigrated, but I'm hoping to redeem them to some degree. I know they're not Academy Award-winners, but until about 1964, they were extremely well-crafted by big-name Hollywood directors. ["Viva Las Vegas" director George Sidney also did "Showboat" and "Annie Get Your Gun."]


Q: How can people best prepare for the screening?

A: The best way would be not to read about Elvis but to watch Elvis. I would recommend (the documentary) "Elvis '56." All you have to do is see that footage of Perry Como from the same period, and it's no wonder Elvis knocked people's socks off. And watch one of his films from the '50s, like "Loving You," "King Creole" or "Jailhouse Rock."


Q: Will there be a test afterward?


A: No, but there will be a drawing and a giveaway.

Log on to facets.org for the Facets Night School schedule. (Celluloid Elvis, Source: Donald Liebenson, Chicago Tribune)

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Aussie chart update: Elvis: The King of Rock 'n' Roll rises 3 places to #35 on tomorrow's ARIA Music DVD Chart. It has been on the chart for 65 weeks with a peak of #4 and is certified 2xP. (News, Source: ARIA)

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Platinum For The King: Elvis Presley picked up a few Gold and Platinum Award (upgrades) for recent DVD and CD releases:

On July 1, 2009:

• Aloha From Hawaii - Deluxe Edition: 2.00 and 3.00 Platinum;
• Elvis #1 Hit Performances: Gold and Platinum;
• Elvis: '68 Comeback Special - Deluxe Edition: 4.00 Multi Platinum.

July 22, 2009:

• ELV1S 30 #1 Hits: 5.00 Multi Platinum.

EPE announced that there will be an award ceremony during Elvis Week 2009. (News, Source: RIAA /Elvis News)

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Heartbreak Hotels burned as Sillerman exits real estate: Bob Sillerman, the billionaire entertainment mogul who owns the rights to Elvis Presley's Graceland, Muhammad Ali and a big share of Simon Fuller's hit TV show "American Idol," is getting out of the real-estate business after losing hundreds of millions of dollars on just two failed projects. "I think I have shown conclusively that I am not knowledgeable enough about the real-estate business," Sillerman told The Post in an exclusive interview. "I think I should leave it to other people to pursue." Sillerman's decision comes amid a flurry of lawsuits surrounding the construction of one of the two projects -- a luxury golf course and resort on the Caribbean island of Anguilla. The project has failed and is in default on loans and guarantees -- some of which are looked after by Credit Suisse. "That project has stopped," Sillerman said. Credit Suisse last week filed a lawsuit seeking repayment of more than $21 million in personal guarantees by Sillerman. A second company -- Anguilla Equity partners -- filed a suit seeking more than $25 million in relation to that same failed project. Sillerman said that he has spent so much of his fortune on the Anguilla project that he should not have to pay Credit Suisse much of the $21 million the bank demands.

"I was originally asked to invest somewhere around $15 million in the Anguilla project," Sillerman said. "But since then I have put in about $200 million more of my own money just to keep it going."

Sillerman said his decision to get into the real estate business was spurred by his love of Anguilla, where he keeps a home with his wife, the writer Laura Baudo.

"The government of Anguilla asked me to do something to help the island so I went in for the right reasons but at the wrong time," Sillerman said.

Sillerman's costs are and include more than $200,000 a month just to water the $12 million Greg Norman-designed championship golf course, court papers show. The golf course is complete but the hotel and villas are not. Without constant watering, golf courses in the Caribbean are doomed. Once the grass dies, they have to be reconstructed virtually from scratch. The fate of the golf course became a bone of contention in a series of e-mails between a Credit Suisse banker and Paul Kanavos, Sillerman's business partner in developing the project.

In the final e-mail on the subject, Kanavos wrote: "Bob Sillerman is unwilling to provide further money to preserve the golf course.

"Tragically it will now be lost and will need to be completely rebuilt."

Credit Suisse declined to comment about the lawsuit other than to say they are agents for a consortium of lenders that invested in the Anguilla project.

Lawyers representing Anguilla Equity partners declined to comment about the other lawsuit.

Sillerman's Anguilla woes come hard on the heels of the failure of a $475 million Elvis-themed Las Vegas hotel being planned by FX Real Estate, a publicly traded property company controlled by Sillerman, of which Kanavos is the CEO.

"The plans for the Elvis Presley Hotel and casino have been cancelled," Kanavos said. "Las Vegas is in a depression and I do not think there will be any need for additional hotel rooms in the city for at least the next five to seven years," Kanavos added. (James Dorman, www.nypost.com /EP Gold)

Visit EIN's comprehensive Sale of EPE Archives

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Kanye West the new Jacko and the new Elvis!: Kanye believe the bare-faced cheek of the man?

It's been less than six weeks since Michael Jackson's death, and yet hip-hop star Kanye West reckons HE should be crowned the new King of Pop.

Oh, and he thinks he's the new Elvis Presley as well.

He said on a website: "You know everyone loves and respects Michael but times change. It's so sad to see Michael gone but it makes a path for a new King of Pop and I'm willing to take that on."

Mmm, frankly, your CV, while impressive, isn't really up to "King of Pop" standards Mister West Undeterred, he goes on: "There's nobody who can match me in sales and so it only makes sense for me to take over Michael's crown and become the new King.

"First there was Elvis, then there was Michael, now in the 21st century it's Kanye's time to rule." (News, Source: mirror.co.uk)

EIN Note: Since the Mirror published this story, Kanye West has come out and denied that he ever made the comments attributed to him.

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EPE's latest marketing item:

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Saturday 1 August 2009

Elvis photographer Richard Weede EIN Interview: On October 28th 1956 Elvis appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show for the second time. This was the first time that Elvis had been at the New York CBS studio since Elvis' previous Ed Sullivan appearance had been linked in live from a studio in Los Angeles. Richard Weede, an aspiring photographer, was also in the CBS Studio that day and captured some fabulous candid images of Elvis at the Ed Sullivan rehearsals. His father was the famous opera star Robert Weede, so Rock'n'Roll was certainly not a staple at his home! It was only recently that an envelope of these lost photographs was discovered - images that beautifully capture a classic moment in Rock'n'Roll history. EIN's Piers Beagley recently interviewed Richard Weede about his iconic 1956 Rock'n'Roll images. Go here for the exclusive interview and 1956 photographs. (Interviews, Source;EIN)

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New ELVIS Cirque du Soleil Update: Every week, staff members and directors of the upcoming Elvis Cirque du Soleil show in Las Vegas offer us a special "insight" on Elvis. It gives fans the chance to meet some of the creators, and discover the creative challenges of this impressive production. New online is a word from the director of the show and the director of creation. "It's gonna be sexy & funny & energetic and Elvis' kinda' humor. There's the bigness of Elvis Presley - but you know what? He was human just like you and me."  Director Vincent Paterson tells us about his background and role in the creation of this major production. There is a summary of the show's story, and starting today Vincent tells us about his first encounter with Elvis' work as a kid. CLICK here for weekly video ELVIS Cirque du Soleil updates (News, Source;EIN/ElvisMatters/Cirque du Soleil)

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"The curse of Elvis" - Forty years on, looking back at a Vegas residency that spawned a stigma: The Las Vegas Weekly yesterday reported the following article. EIN notes however that the article should actually be called "The Curse Of Streisand" as it was Barbra Streisand that opened the International residency and NOT Elvis! It is also a known fact that Vegas hotel reservations went up by 10% when Elvis was in town and that Vegas would be of lesser importance had it not been for Elvis' great impact helping create Vegas as an entertainment centre, as well as a gambling mecca. From The Las Vegas Weekly: On July 31, 1969, Elvis Presley played the first headliner show at the Las Vegas International (soon to be the Hilton). He played to an invited VIP audience. At the time, Las Vegas existed outside the counterculture erupting around the rest of the country. George Carlin could still get fired for swearing here, and Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas had not yet been written.

The rock generation might not have been going to Elvis’ movies, but he still had its ear as he arrived in Vegas, triumphant off of his still-revered ’68 Comeback Special. Two months before opening in Vegas, he released what might have been his best studio album, From Elvis in Memphis. Sure, 10 years of bad movies were behind him, but Presley was still a major music player re-entering the game, and Las Vegas was to be the staging ground for the ultimate comeback by the then-best-selling solo artist of all time. Putting Presley onstage in Vegas with a band of gospel musicians might not have appeased his early rock following—or endeared him to the counterculture—but it found him revitalized and making his best music since his Sun Studio days. Vegas was not meant to be the grave it became for Presley, but rather the launch of a new model, in which a hot artist could forsake touring and let audiences come to him. Old-school entertainers, like Frank Sinatra, had been doing Vegas for years, but their success did not rise and fall with the charts, nor did their audience expect a tour to follow each new release. Elvis’ always-ingenious manager, Colonel Tom Parker, got his man record sums of money for Vegas, and, at first, Presley responded with some of his best music, bringing all his influences—blues, rock, gospel, country and pop—to one stage. Early live Hilton recordings remain among Presley’s most vital work, offering a sound he had a large hand in creating (compared with his produced studio work). Entering with Elvis Presley, Vegas hit the rock world on top. Had it all stayed there, maybe artists like Bruce Springsteen and Lou Reed would not have avoided the Vegas stage for decades. But Presley died a pathetic, bloated, drug-addled parody of himself in 1977, and that image became nearly synonymous with Vegas. On bootlegs, you can hear the King near the end, talking about karate and cracking bad jokes as much as singing. And his voice, when he does sing, is shocking, lacking any of the cocksure confidence and bottomless power that defined his music as late as singles like “Burning Love.” A year before Presley died, critic Bill Burke, witnessing a Hilton show, wrote a review quoted in Peter Guralnick’s definitive Careless Love: The Unmaking of Elvis Presley: “After sitting through Elvis Presley’s closing-night performance at Las Vegas Hilton, one wonders how much longer it can be before the end comes, perhaps suddenly, and why the King of Rock ’n’ Roll would subject himself to possible ridicule.” Such ridicule became symptomatic, though Presley’s sold-out crowds here seemed indifferent to his dissipated talent. Not until the Joint and House of Blues opened in the 1990s did Vegas became a regular touring stop. Even then, artists playing those hot venues could be found insisting to the press that Vegas was just another tour stop—and not the spot where bygone musicians went to die. The century rolled over by the time Celine Dion opened her Vegas show, A New Day. That’s how long it took for a major artist to repeat the Presley model of 1969. Dion paid tribute to Elvis in her show’s music and style, and, while she lacked Presley’s artistic greatness, the ease of her success helped erode the Vegas stigma. The door once shut by Presley’s Vegas decay suddenly opened for headliners from Elton John to Prince to Santana, the current headliner at the Hard Rock. But before all that, Las Vegas was a symbol for all that was uncool. Forty years ago this week, Elvis Presley opened a world of possibility, and then later destroyed it. EIN Notes - Please compare this to the sensational eye-witness 1969 review below. (News, Source;Richard Abowitz:The Las Vegas Weekly)

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'Elvis: Sessions IV' new JAT book: Rumours of a new and highly anticipated update by JAT Productions of 'Elvis: Sessions IV' coming in 2010. More information soon. Go here to JAT productions for more info. Click here for EIN's review of 'Elvis: Sessions III,     (News, Source: JAT Productions)

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Friday 31 July 2009 . . . - . . . It was Forty Years ago Today

Elvis; Concert Review 1969: EIN 40th Anniversary special Spotlight: Forty years ago today Elvis returned to Live concert performances. All the media were there but so were the true fans. EIN contributor Joan Gansky was one of the lucky ones and wrote a delightful, personal review. "The atmosphere throughout the entire hotel was nail-bitingly electric! It is difficult for me to describe and paint a true portrait of attending in person this unique occasion - but I'll try my best. I want, and hope, you will understand the excitement of what has to be the pinnacle of Elvis' career to date! I vaguely recall the Sweet Inspirations perform - followed by a seemingly lengthy act by comedian Sammy Shore. The audience grew impatient. At last! The curtains closed. A pause. . . . A white shoe, a hand "peeked" round the curtain - now open - the thrill of a lifetime as Elvis simply stood there. He smiled happily, looking far more dynamic than any photo I had ever seen of him! - attired in white, with a long sash (belt) and a splash of color in the red kerchief (scarf). . ."   Click here for her unique eye-witness account & photos of this fabulous event. (Spotlight, Source;EIN)

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'Elvis: Vegas '69', Ken Sharp EIN interview: 'Elvis: Vegas '69', will be the essential Elvis book purchase of 2009. The new 200-page book commemorates the 40th anniversary of Elvis’s historic return to live performance. Written by Ken Sharp author of the critically acclaimed ' Writing For The King' the book tells the remarkable story of Elvis's return to the concert stage told through first-hand accounts by those lucky enough to be on hand to witness Elvis' miraculous artistic and creative rebirth. EIN recently interviewed Ken Sharp to find out more about the book, what to expect, who were his contributors - and whether he has met Lisa Marie! (Yes he has!). Click here to this interview and fabulous Elvis in 1969. . .. (Book Reviews, Source;EIN)

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Preview of 'Elvis At The Gates' documentary: A preview of the forthcoming documentary by Larry Geller's son 'Elvis At The Gates' which premieres this August in Memphis. 'At the Gates' will examine the spiritual journey Elvis lived, where it lead him, and the connection it help to create between himself and his devoted fans after his death. A journey Larry Geller was privileged to accompany him on. A journey that Larry truly believes is one of the reasons we travel to Graceland on August 16th every year. Click here for the YouTube preview &.. Go here for our exclusive 2007 EIN interview with Larry Geller. (News, Source:LGeller)

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Dr Nick day 2 on 'E.T.' and 'The Insider': Once again Dr. Nick appeared on the sensationalistic US TV shows 'E.T' and 'The Insider' in a comparison between the final days of Michael Jackson & Elvis and the influences of their respective doctors. While publicising his new book, out February 2010, Dr. Nick said some rather unbelievable facts about his treatment of Elvis. Dr. Nick stated, "The only times I saw Elvis he was always straight. I never saw any signs that he was taking anything (drugs)." The program played the supposedly 'very rare' fan-video of Elvis on stage while featuring the "Strung Out" Desert Storm dialogue. They showed 1975 Black Aztec jumpsuit footage mislabeling it "Sept 1974" - as well as Elvis slurring his words badly during the Aloha 1972 media announcement.

The program stated that Elvis eyes were "vacant and glazed over" and idiotically stated that in November 1972 "Elvis did not admit to his reliance on prescription drugs."!! ... (As if any pop star would!) Dr Nick went on to state, "I don't regret anything that I gave Elvis, I think they were all medical necessities. The problem was I didn't know everything he was taking from other people." Nichopoulos said drugs in Elvis' system were not at "toxic or lethal levels" when he died. However most of the autopsy team at Baptist Memorial Hospital attributed the death to "polypharmacy" or drug interaction, but former medical examiner Dr. Jerry Francisco said last year he stands by his 1977 ruling that Elvis died of cardiac arrhythmia, not drugs. (News, Source;EIN)

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'Dr. Nick: Medically Irresponsible or Misunderstood?': After Dr Nick's appearance on The Insider what do you think of his actions? Quoting from the book 'The Death Of Elvis'.. "August 17th 1977 and Vernon Presley (right) was trying to control his anger that was directed toward Nichopoulos. He couldn't help blaming Dr. Nick for his son's death. He even harbored the suspicion that perhaps Elvis had been poisoned. Those autopsy papers he signed ought to lead to some answers, and Vernon hoped soon. Meanwhile, he was going to have a showdown with Nichopoulos—and have it before the funeral—to get a few financial matters straightened out. On the Thursday after Elvis's death, Vernon met with Nichopoulos and had his showdown. As executor of Elvis's estate, Vernon signed the consolidation agreement. Then he fired Nichopoulos as his personal physician and warned the doctor never to be late making any monthly repayments of the loan. Later, Vernon would order Baptist Hospital officials never to show Nichopoulos a copy of the autopsy. Under different circumstances he wouldn't mind exposing doctors who handed out pills by the sackful, but this time it would expose his own son. Above all, Vernon wanted to preserve the public myth of Elvis, the clean-living entertainer who opposed drug abuse. Also in the interest of appearances, Vernon allowed Nichopoulos to participate in Elvis's funeral as a pallbearer." Have Your Say - Click here to 'Dr. Nick: Medically Irresponsible or Misunderstood?' (News, Source;EIN)

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'Elvis: Love Me Tender - The Love Songs' CD: Clever marketing to match the new DVD release 'Elvis: Love Me Tender - The Love Songs' DVD the Spring House label will release a fourteen track  lovesongs compilation CD with the same title and cover art on August 25, 2009. From the press-release: Always a true romantic, Elvis recorded many, many love songs throughout his career, beginning with 'I Want You, I Need You, I Love You' in 1956 and running the entire span of his life. Entire eras of his remarkable life and career can be evoked by the mere mention of the title of one of his many love songs. Mention 'Love Me Tender'and a hundred images spring to mind. The same can be said for his many other songs of romance. Elvis and his love songs had remained an unexplored area of Elvis' remarkable career. Now, "Love Me Tender - The Love Songs Of Elvis Presley" tells the warm story of the tender side of the King of Rock and Roll. Tracklisting: Love Me Tender It's Now Or Never Are You Lonesome Tonight For The Good Times Loving You Can't Help Falling In Love What Now My Love I'll Remember You I Want You, I Need You, I Love You Always On My Mind The Wonder Of You I Can't Stop Loving You All That I Am As Long As I Have You (News, Source:EWJ/ElvisNews)

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'Elvis -The Return Of A Prodigy', new August CD: From the producers of “Plugged in & Geared Up”  comes the fully remastered & edited Las Vegas show of “69. The special 40th anniversary "ELVIS LIVE IN LAS VEGAS ’69" Edition Facts: - The earliest known soundboard of 1969 to date - Newly discovered '69 audio - The differences between the later released shows of end August 1969 will strike you. This is the August 3, 1969 Dinner Show, straight from the original ‘69 reference mix. It is completely remastered and edited. This is the earliest soundboard to date of Elvis first Las Vegas engagement in 1969. It’s also only the sixth live performance he gave,  the music is very different from the late August  released live performances. This is to date the closest you can get to the opening show of  July 31st, 1969.

The liner notes are a review of somebody who actually was there. It will give you a very lively idea how it looked. The more than 50 photos of the same show (many in color) included will help you even more to imagine the first few shows of 1969. As a bonus we included some interviews prior to the opening show and original radio spots of 1969. We hope at Gravel road Music  that you all are just as excited as we are about this release cause it’s a historical soundboard recording, placed in the right perspective. Note; The show itself was released by Fort Baxter in 1993 as "Opening Night" no edits were made at the time and an effect was placed on the audio to cover up the tape noise. Now it is upfront clear and very lively as a wild 69 show should be. For the ones who have "Opening night" or the copy from this show, this release will appear as if you hear it for the first time.

Tracks: 01. Opening Theme  02.  Blue Suede Shoes  03.  I Got A Woman  04.  All Shook Up  05.  Love Me Tender 06.  Jailhouse Rock / Don't Be Cruel 07.  Heartbreak Hotel  08. Hound Dog  09.  Memories  10.  Mystery Train / Tiger Man  11.  LIFE STORY (MONOLOGUE)  12.  Baby What You Want Me To Do   13.  Are You Lonesome Tonight?  14.  Yesterday / Hey Jude   15.  introductions   16.  In The Ghetto    17.   Suspicious Minds  18. What I’d Say  19.   Can't Help Falling In Love  20.  Interviews - BEFORE OPENING NIGHT (31 JULY)  21.  RADIO SPOTS FROM 1969. (News;Source;GRoad)

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3,200 Rare Elvis Photos! Click HERE for some Great Images and more EIN photo-site information Don't miss out on these rare and exciting photographs. Now with over 980 members! Why not JOIN NOW! Or click here directly to our EIN Facebook Photos.

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‘FROM ELVIS IN MEMPHIS: LEGACY EDITION’ OUT NOW! & new details: OUT THIS WEEK the new ‘From Elvis In Memphis Legacy Edition’ features 36 tracks - including the Original Mono single Masters. CD 2 features the 10 songs of the LP ‘Back In Memphis’ plus another 10 bonus tracks, grouped as The Original Mono Single Masters. Four are (mono) reprises of songs that appeared on the LPs: "In The Ghetto," "Any Day Now," "The Fair’s Moving On," and "You’ll Think Of Me." The other six were all originally non-LP single sides at the time of their first release: "Suspicious Minds" (the Grammy Hall Of Fame and Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame inductee, written by Mark James); "Don’t Cry Daddy" (Mac Davis) b/w "Rubberneckin’"; Eddie Rabbitt’s "Kentucky Rain" b/w Shirl Milete’s "My Little Friend"; and finally, guitarist Johnny Christopher’s "Mama Liked The Roses." Added to EIN today is the BMG publicity release which promises podcast promos - as well as radio series. Click HERE for FULL BMG Promo Details - Sleeve PHOTOS - and complete tracklisting. (News, Source;Barry McLean/ElvisInfoNet)

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Click here for all the July 2009 Elvis News, Reviews, Articles, Interviews

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