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FTD Shop EIN's "2007 Elvis Week Tour" from Australia

2007 is going to be another major ELVIS year. EIN ends this year with one of the first of many crazy Elvis headlines that we can all expect next year. Wishing you a very happy New Year's Eve to all our readers.

Will this be the year Elvis returns?: We live in a world of attention-grabbing headlines. So, as 2006 draws its last breath and makes its way into the history books, it's time to look forward to 2007. Headline-wise, I'm sure we'll see all kinds, and to that end there are certainly some that we will not likely see, or for that matter want to. The entertainment world could provide us with a vicarious thrill or two. Aside from the obvious antics of Madonna absconding a child or two, or Britney, Paris, and the like, I mean. So what could be better than spitting out your morning cornflakes as you see at the top of the page: "Elvis Presley ends 30-year hoax, announces world tour". Yeah, like we'd want to see a man approaching 70 cavorting around on stage like he's still 30, .. - sorry Mick. (News, Source:EIN/Winnipeg Sun)

Another Elvis connection dies: Songwriter Pierre Delanoe: Pierre Delanoe, who wrote the lyrics for more than 5,000 songs died Wednesday aged 88. He was known for writing some of France's best-loved tunes, many with singer-songwriter Gilbert Becaud. One was "Et maintenant," which was translated into English to become "What Now My Love," and was covered by artists including Elvis, Frank Sinatra and Barbra Streisand. Another of their famous hits was "Je t'appartiens," which became "Let It Be Me," was covered by the Everly Brothers, Tom Jones, Bob Dylan as well as a sensational version by Elvis.

In 2006 we also lost Elvis friends & colleagues Charlie Hodge, James Brown, Dennis Linde, William Speer (photographer), Richard Egan (actor), Shelley Winters (actor), Buddy Killen (music publisher) and now Pierre Delanoé. (News, Source: Various/EIN)

Lisa Marie & Priscilla Presley usher in 2007 in remote Irish castle: With barely a day left to wave 2006 goodbye, people all  over the world are getting ready to party and celebrate as they usher in the New Year. However, Elvis Presley's widow Priscilla and daughter Lisa Marie have opted for a quieter option. The two celebs are reportedly going to bring in 2007 holed up in a remote Irish castle to which they travelled to recently. The two Presleys will be staying at the exclusive Castle Gorteen Le Poer in Kilasheen, Co Tipperary, the home of Priscilla's pal, the reclusive Austrian artist Gottfried Helnwein. An insider revealed that the two will not have time to get bored, for while at the castle, they will be able to enjoy skeet shooting, archery and falconry, as well as pony treks in the vast castle grounds. "Priscilla is a big fan of Gottfried's art and there is loads for them to do," (News, Source: Various/EIN)

Four Elvis Christmas videos: As we head towards the final days of 2006, EIN is still feeling the Elvis festive spirit and so we present you with four of our favourite Christmas YouTube videos for you to enjoy. Merry Christmas - and remember what Elvis sang,
 
Give thanks for all you've been blessed with
And hold your loved ones tight
For you know the Lord's been good to you
On a snowy Christmas night

Elvis Blue Christmas. By Rizzy25. Includes great footage of Graceland with its 1974 red decor.

Elvis - Blue Christmas, a 1977 performance - By Jeroen

Elvis - Santa Claus Is Back In Town - Elvis images by Frances (Kindhearted1)

On a Snowy Christmas Night - (picture compilation)  From  SonnyTCB

The Jordanaires' Ray Walker, the EIN interview: The Jordanaires formed in 1948 and are still going strong. Their style was recognised by a young Elvis who realised that they were the perfect backing group to match his own vocal style. They ended up working with Elvis until 1970 and performed on over half of his recorded material. During Christmas 2002 EIN spent a while talking with bass-singer Ray Walker. Ray told us some delightful stories about his life and time spent with Elvis. We are very happy to have the chance to republish this exclusive interview during this festive season. (Interviews, Source: EIN)

New Elvis CD, 'Pink Cadillac - The Recordings Of 1956': As Elvis' music falls into the public domain we are going to see more and more of these dodgy compilations. The first major sign is this 1956 selection 'Pink Cadillac - The Recordings Of 1956'. Described as "Elvis Presley's most beloved recordings were his Sun sides and the first years with RCA just prior to his induction into the army in 1958. In 1956, he had his first truly successful year, releasing some of his biggest hits ('Hound Dog', 'Don't Be Cruel', 'Heartbreak Hotel', etc.) and touring the U.S. to sell-out crowds. In the studio, he was a caged tiger, but live is when he really tore the place up. These 25 recordings come from this extremely prolific year and features many of his hits and album favorites performed as only Elvis could! Features 'Blue Suede Shoes', 'Lawdy Miss Clawdy', ' I Want You I Need You I Love You' and many more". EIN says, Buy the deluxe 'Elvis Presley' FTD CD instead. (News, Source: EIN)

James Brown's 'Elvis' dream for a Graceland style home: "Godfather of Soul" James Brown wanted his home turned into a Graceland-like museum after his death, according to his would-be widow. "James and I talked about that all the time," said Tomi Rae Hynie, "That's what he wanted. He wanted a Graceland." Tomi Rae, who's been barred from entering the singer's Beech Island, home ever since his Christmas Day death in Atlanta at age 73, said Brown's personal manager has legal documentation that permits her to live there as long as she wants before converting it into a museum in his memory. Efforts to reach the manager, Charles Bobbit, to confirm her claim were not successful. But Brown's agent recalled a conversation with Brown about Graceland about two years ago. "He said his house could be another Graceland," said Frank Copsidas. "He said 'Elvis did it, why can't I?' " He noted that Tomi Rae was not with Brown when he died and hadn't seen him for several weeks because she was "in California in rehabilitation." She was at a "retreat" fighting her dependence on anti-depressants, Tomi Rae told the Chronicle. "With my marriage and working and touring, I needed that, and James paid for that," she said. "I wanted to get off those pills, and I wanted to do it to help him get off those pills." (News, Source: EIN)

"Elvis and I are the only true American originals. I love him and hope to see him in heaven. There'll never be another like that soul brother." - James Brown. (1933 -2006) R.I.P.

New expanded Graceland Museum exhibit for 2007: In March 2007 a special exhibit of Elvis' stage costumes from 1969-1977 will open in the Graceland visitor center at the Sincerely Elvis Museum. This is an exhibition space that will feature a new themed exhibit each year. The permanent exhibits at Graceland relating the story of Elvis' career, also featuring a significant display of costumes, will remain. The special exhibit however will feature more than 50 additional Presley stage outfits, such as the famed "jumpsuits," with metal and rhinestone studding and matching capes, and others with elaborate embroidery. In addition, there will be related photographs, archival documents and performance footage. The special exhibit will be on display for two years. (News, Source; EPE/Sanja/EIN)

EPE announces plans to carry the Elvis phenomenon to even greater heights in the new millennium: With younger and younger audiences discovering Elvis and the number of projects planned for 2007, the King of Rock & Roll continues to entertain with a career reaching new generations. The anniversary year begins with the January 8 celebration of his birthday at Graceland and continues through Elvis Week 2007 in August, which promises to be the largest ever.

Nearly thirty years ago on August 16, 1977, legendary entertainer Elvis Presley died at age 42. At the start of his career, his unique, instinctive, natural blending of pop, country, gospel and R&B music, presented with his charismatic and then-provocative style, touched off a revolution in music and popular culture. Today, his influence still reverberates and his presence seems more ubiquitous than ever. There are at least 400 active independent Elvis fan clubs around the globe and on the Internet there are hundreds of Web sites devoted to interest in the superstar in addition to the official site, Elvis.com. In recent years, Elvis CD and DVD releases have topped the sales charts in territories around the world. Today, licensing activity for official Elvis products and ventures is at an all-time high. Recently Atlantic Monthly magazine published the results of its poll of ten eminent historians to name the 100 most influential figures of American history. Elvis Presley is one of only a handful of entertainment artists to make the list.

Graceland Mansion welcomes over 600,000 visitors per year - half of them today are age 35 and under. In 2006, the Graceland staff played host to President George Bush and avowed Elvis fan, Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi of Japan, an event that generated extensive media coverage everywhere. Also in 2006, Graceland Mansion, the most famous home in America after The White House, was designated a National Historic Landmark in recognition of the fact that Elvis Presley lived there.

Now, EPE Inc. and CKX, Inc., along with their collaborators, licensees and venture partners, are preparing for a full and exciting year of activity in 2007, the 30th Anniversary of Elvis' passing, which is expected to help carry the Elvis phenomenon to even greater heights. It begins with the Elvis Presley Birthday Celebration at Graceland in January, follows through with special DVD and CD releases and special official products from licensees, and crescendos in August with what is expected to be the biggest of all the annual Elvis Week celebrations to date.

DVD and CD Releases: Currently on the global market as the 30th Anniversary year is about to dawn are the Summer 2006 single-disc concert releases Elvis: '68 Comeback - Special Edition DVD and Elvis: Aloha from Hawaii - Special Edition DVD, which are follow-ups to the 2004 smash hit release of deluxe box sets of material shot for these programs, and the November 2005 release Elvis - The Ed Sullivan Shows, a three-disc DVD set containing in their entirety the three Ed Sullivan Show episodes in which Elvis appeared. Completed and in limited release in 2006 are the single-disc DVD Elvis Lives - The 25th Anniversary Concert and the DVD box set Elvis: The Ultimate Movie Collection - Graceland Edition, both of which will see their full retail rollout in early 2007. Anticipated for 2007 are upgraded DVD re-releases and first-time DVD releases of a roster of Elvis Presley movies. In the summer of 2007, EPE is set to release an all-new and expanded edition of its popular DVD, Elvis Presley's Graceland - The Official Tour DVD.

TV Land: Throughout August 2007, the TV network will pay tribute to Elvis featuring his movies, televisions specials and other programming, including material from Elvis: '68 Comeback - Special Edition DVD and Elvis: Aloha from Hawaii - Special Edition DVD. "Elvis Month" on TV Land will be complemented by an off-air promotional campaign.

Graceland's Silver & Gold Anniversary and More: The year 2007 marks not only the 30th anniversary of the death of Elvis Presley, but also the 25th anniversary of the opening of Graceland Mansion for public tours and the 50th anniversary of Presley's purchase of his famed home. Elvis bought Graceland in March of 1957 and it opened to the public in June of 1982. In addition to the aforementioned new Graceland Tour DVD release, commemorating this dual anniversary will be the enormously popular artist Thomas Kinkade, who will unveil his special painting of Graceland Mansion and release limited edition prints, which will be available in both canvas and paper. The painting will be unveiled in a special event at Graceland in March 2007, approximately one year after Graceland was designated a National Historic Landmark.

Elvis 30th Anniversary Harley-Davidson: In January 2007, Bruce Rossmeyer's Harley-Davidson® motorcycles - the preferred brand of cycle enthusiast Elvis Presley - will open a permanent exhibition across the street from Graceland. The company will also introduce the design of a limited edition of thirty Harley-Davidson motorcycles to be specially customized in tribute to Elvis for the 30th Anniversary year. Construction on each of the thirty bikes will commence as each advance order comes in. All are scheduled for completion in the summer and purchasers will be given the option of attending a special ceremony at Graceland in August during Elvis Week 2007 to pick up their custom Elvis Harley-Davidsons. The design will be completed and unveiled in early 2007.

Elvis Week 2007 in Memphis: Tens of thousands of fans are expected to make the 30th Anniversary edition the biggest Elvis Week to date. Along with the traditional Candlelight Vigil at Graceland, key events are the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest, the first-ever official Elvis tribute artist contest presented by EPE, and Elvis: The 30th Anniversary Concert starring the real Elvis Presley via video technology, accompanied live on stage by an orchestra and a large cast of his original concert musicians and back-up singers. Elvis Week 2007, set for August 11-19, will include approximately four-dozen entertainment, social, sports and charity events. The 30th Anniversary Concert, to be staged at FedExForum in Memphis on August 16, is already over 70% sold out even though there has not been an actual press release to announce the concert and the first concert advertisement has yet to run.
The full roster of Elvis Week 2007 events presented by EPE and by participating organizations is still being planned. A continuously updated calendar of events can be found on Elvis.com or one can go directly to the calendar through the address ElvisWeek.com. (News, Source: EPE December 2006)

Scotty Moore celebrates his 75th Birthday: Winfield Scott Moore III was born on December 27, 1931. Scotty Moore was a participant in the historic session at the Sun Studio, July 5th 1954, that marked the birth of rock'n'roll. It is noteworthy that 'That's All Right' (Sun 209) was credited to "Elvis Presley, Scotty and Bill." Scotty would keep on working with Elvis until the 1968 Comeback show. Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones famously said "When I heard Heartbreak Hotel, I knew what I wanted to do in life. It was as plain as day. All I wanted to do in the world was to be able to play and sound like that. Everyone else wanted to be Elvis, I wanted to be Scotty Moore.'

Scotty Moore interview with EIN: Scotty Moore was in the delivery room when Rock'n' Roll was born. On July 5, 1954, guitarist Scotty Moore, bass player Bill Black and a young man from Tupelo, Mississippi, by the name of Elvis Presley recorded ‘That's All Right’ - and the world would never be the same again.’ Winfield Scott Moore III was born on December 27, 1931. To celebrate Scotty Moore's 75th Birthday EIN presents this exclusive Arjan Deelen interview. It is an interview well worth revisiting. (Interviews, Source: Arjan Deelen, EIN)

Elvis 1957 Studio Master tape for sale; Ebay is carrying the sale of an extremely Rare Original 1957 Recording Session Tape. It is a reel-to-reel studio "safety" tape of from Elvis' 1957 Jan/Feb sessions at Radio Recorders, Hollywood. The tape has been verified through BMG/RCA officials. Including twelve Masters including 'Party', 'All Shook Up' & 'Mean Woman Blues' the tape has paper splicing between each recording, a technique that has not been utilized since the 1960’s. It is believed to have belonged to Elvis engineer Thorne Nogar and is being sold for his family. It is, as described, "a piece of music history". However although the Ebay description says that it includes "multiple takes of all of the songs" EIN believes that Ernst Jorgensen has listened to this tape and that it contains nothing unreleased except for some minor studio dialogue. It is of course extremely rare and the bidding starts at US$28,000. Go here for more images. Ebay item number: 280062126156 -

'The Essential Elvis Presley': Sony/BMG have confirmed that 'The Essential Elvis Presley' will be released on January 9th 2007, the day after Elvis' birthday. It is part of their comprehensive series of "Essential" artist double albums.  Sony/BMG note a key selling-point as it being 'The only 2CD Elvis Hits collection available.' EIN note: the 9 Jan release is in the USA and EC. The album will be released in Australia on 2 February. Tracklist: CD1 - That's All Right, Baby, Let's Play House, Mystery Train, Heartbreak Hotel, I Was The One, Blue Suede Shoes, Hound Dog, Don't Be Cruel, Love Me Tender, All Shook Up, Peace In The Valley, Jailhouse Rock, Trouble, Fever, It's Now Or Never, Reconsider Baby, Are You Lonesome Tonight?, Little Sister, Follow That Dream, Can't Help Falling In Love. CD2 - Return To Sender, Devil In Disguise, Bossa Nova Baby, Viva Las Vegas, Big Boss Man, A Little Less Conversation, If I Can Dream, Memories, In The Ghetto, Suspicious Minds, Don't Cry Daddy, Kentucky Rain, Polk Salad  Annie, The Wonder Of You, I Just Can't Help Believin', Burning Love, Always On My Mind, Steamroller Blues, Hurt, Moody Blue.  (News, Source: Barry Mclean December 2006)

New Elvis DVD 'Once Upon A Time In 1977': One of this year's cleverest import releases was EID's DVD "Once Upon A Time In 1971" (cover below) which matched Elvis home-video concert footage from November 1971 with the sensational audio of Elvis' Boston concert from the 'One Night Only' CD. While the home footage of Elvis was pretty rough in places, it was a captivating look at Elvis performing in 1971. EID follows up with the new 'Once Upon A Time In 1977 - The Complete February 77 Tour' released this month. Again this DVD cleverly compiles a "complete" 1977 concert using the best video and audio available. The following 26 performances are featured on the DVD... See See Rider (Hollywood, FL); I Got A Woman (St. Petersburg, FL); Love Me (Charlotte, NC); If You Love Me (Hollywood, FL); Fairytale (Charlotte, NC); You Gave Me A Mountain (Hollywood, FL); Big Boss Man (Orlando, FL); All Shook Up, Teddy Bear, Don't Be Cruel (St. Petersburg, FL); Jailhouse Rock (Orlando, FL); Fever (West Palm Beach, FL); My Way, Polk Salad Annie, It's Now or Never (Montgomery, AL); Early Morning Rain, Jerry Scheff Solo (Hollywood, FL); Blueberry Hill, Love Letters (St. Petersburg, FL); Hail Hail Rock and Roll, Funny How Time Slips Away (Hollywood, FL); Hurt, Hound Dog, Where No One Stands Alone, Unchained Melody (Montgomery, AL); Can't Help Falling In Love (Hollywood, FL) This 1977 DVD interestingly coincides with the January FTD release 'Unchained Melody' which features Elvis' February 1977 Charlotte concert, as well as other matching tracks i.e. Blueberry Hill & Love Letters from St. Petersburg, Feb 14. The highlight would have to be the total rarity of 'Where No One Stands Alone' from Montgomery, Feb. 16. The DVD also features 40 minutes of bonus material. A detailed EIN review will follow. (News, Source: EIN)

Nothing can lick the Elvis stamp! This year's Wonders of America set climbed to second place in the most popular stamps, but "Elvis is still The King", the Postal Service said Tuesday. Some 124.1 million of the 1993 Elvis Presley stamps were saved by Americans, according to the post office, which does an annual survey of 10,000 households to determine which stamps are most popular. Rising into second spot was the Wonders of America set with 87.5 million stamps saved, the agency said.  "Stamp collecting continues as one of the worlds most popular educational hobbies that the entire family can enjoy," said Postmaster General John E. Potter. Following Elvis and the 'Wonders of America' in popularity were 'Wildflowers' (1992) 76.1 million stamps saved; Rock & Roll/Rhythm & Blues (1993) 75.9 million and DC Comics Super Heroes (2006) 73.0 million.  And in comparison to Elvis, 'Legends of Baseball' (2000) sold 53.9 million and Marilyn Monroe (1995) 46.4 million. (News, Source: USPS/EIN)

Elvis was in the building: ELVIS Presley may have been the King, but New York was a corner of the kingdom he abandoned in 1957 after his last appearance on "The Ed Sullivan Show." He was a hunk, a hunk o' burning love everywhere except here. Then, in 1972, on his big comeback tour. Presley knew if he wanted to keep his crown he had to play Madison Square Garden.

Anticipation sweetens any moment, so making New York wait 15 years for a four-night engagement in June 1972 had New York in a frenzy. At a press conference, he joked about the state of rock 'n' roll and his last New York gig, saying, "Man, I was tame compared to what they do now. Are you kidding? I didn't do anything but just jiggle."

But jokes aside, his nervousness began to show when he told reporters, "My image is one thing and the human being is another . . . it's hard to live up to an image." Fortunately the King sucked up his fear and in a gleaming white jumpsuit, he more than managed to live up to the image.

The series was a triumph and tomorrow night at 10, it's honored on the MSG Network as one of the Garden's "50 Greatest Moments." Post music critic Al Aronowitz, backstage before the first concert, described a nervous Elvis sipping a Pepsi asking, "How's the crowd? Are they young or old?"

The answer the King got was "Everybody's out there." And they were: hippie kids and their bobbysoxer moms who worshiped Elvis since the '50s. Fellow musicians included John Lennon, George Harrison, Bob Dylan and David Bowie. In Elvis' 21-song set were covers like "Proud Mary" and "Funny How Time Slips Away" and the hits of his youth, including "All Shook Up," "Heartbreak Hotel" and, of course, "Hound Dog." And while the King never officially returned to the Garden, suspicious minds wonder who that guy is trying to order a deep-fried peanut butter and banana sandwich at concession stands. (News, Source: tiny.url - Dan Aquilante/Charmaine Voisine)

Godfather of Soul dies aged 73: James Brown has died following hospitalisation for pneumonia. The charismatic and colorful entertainer was a good friend of Elvis', attending his funeral in Memphis in 1977. Brown's frenetic singing style and bold rhythms brought funk into the mainstream and influenced a new generation of black music. Brown said of Elvis: "I wasn't just a fan, I was his brother. He said I was good and I said he was good; we never argued about that. Elvis was a hard worker, dedicated, and God loved him. Last time I saw him was at Graceland. We sang Old Blind Barnabus together, a gospel song. I love him and hope to see him in heaven. There'll never be another like that soul brother." (News, Source: Reuters/EIN)

2007 Collingwood Elvis Festival in Canada - tickets now on sale: Don’t miss out on the best seats in the house at the 2007 Collingwood Elvis Festival. Tickets for the 13th annual event celebrating the life and legacy of Elvis Presley go on sale at 10am on Monday, November 27, 2006. Fans of Elvis, Rock & Roll, and summer celebrations alike can purchase tickets by phone toll free at 1-866-444-1162 or save time by ordering and printing your tickets in the comfort of your home online at www.collingwoodelvisfestival.com.

The 13th Annual Collingwood Elvis Festival, the largest of its kind in the world, takes place Thursday, July 26 – Sunday, July 29, 2007 and this year honours the 30th anniversary of Elvis’ passing. Collingwood’s 2007 theme, Elvis – Then, Now & Always, reflects on the life and career of Elvis Presley, his continued fame spanning 30 years since his passing, and the commitment of tribute artists and festivals the world throughout carrying Presley’s legacy into future decades.

In a major new development for 2007, the Collingwood Elvis Festival has partnered with Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. (EPE), and will serve as one of the licensed preliminary competitions for the recently announced EPE official Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest.  Elvis tribute artists selected in Collingwood will participate in the finals during Elvis Week in Memphis in August. (News, Source: Charmaine Voisine)

"Elvis in the Beat of the Night: True Stories of Elvis and His Police Buddies" book delayed yet again: Originally due out in August publication of this book has again been delayed. Tentative release date is now late January 2007. (News, ElvisBookResearch)

Schilling memoir toppled: Jerry Schilling's popular memoir "Me and A Guy Named Elvis" has been dethroned in the US as the best selling Elvis book. In the lead up to Christmas, Graceland An Interactive Pop-Up Tour was the most popular book choice with buyers. (News, Source: ElvisBookResearch)

The staff at EIN wish all of our readers a wonderful Christmas and a happy New Year!

What Santa looks like without his beard!

"Songs That Inspired The King Vol. 2": Here is volume 2 of the “Songs That Inspired The King” featuring hits by Elvis and the original version by the original artists. (News, Source: Elvis News)

BBC Radio Elvis Special on 27 December: As we first reported on 20 December, BBC Radio Cornwall's Matt Shepherd is presenting another Elvis Special this Christmas. Matt will be talking to Joe Esposito about his new book, and Todd Morgan from EPE will be talking about Graceland at Christmas, and their plans to mark the 30th anniversary of Elvis' death. There will be classic hits, and rarities with Matt who is a massive Elvis fan. Don't worry if you don't live in Cornwall as you can hear the show live online from 6.05pm UK time on Wednesday 27 December 2006. Just log on to www.bbc.co.uk/cornwall and click on the 'listen live' option at the top of the page. (News, Source: Matt Shepherd)

New CD releases in the EC: The discount label DISKY will release the compilation “Elvis Rocks – Blue Suede Shoes” on January 5, 2007. Several other titles have been released the past month according to the Tower Records website. So far only the first title is a CD that hasn't been released in Europe before. The titles available since November 28, 2006 are: “King of the West 1954”, “Memphis Flash”, “Concert Anthology” and “The SUN Studio Sessions”. (News, Source: Elvis News)

UK fans can celebrate Elvis' birthday in Memphis from £639: A four-night Elvis Extravaganza costs from £639pp, including room-only at the four-star Marriott Downtown Memphis, a Graceland Elvis Entourage VIP tour and car hire. Flight departs Gatwick on January 5. Details: 0870 904 0920, www.americansky.co.uk (News, Source: Sunday Mirror UK)

Elvis' personal copy of "Kenpo Karate" book for sale: This book was written by Elvis' good friend, Ed Parker. It apparently comes from Elvis' personal collection. The description reads: "Elvis Presley's personally owned copy  of  the book "Kenpo Karate The Law Of  The Fist and the Empty Hand"  written by Elvis ' karate instructor Ed Parker. The hard back book measure  9 X 6 inches and has a dust cover which has noticeable wear. Elvis has written on the cover of the book as well as underscored numerous pages throughout the book as well as made handwritten notations in the margins of the book as was his custom. Book is copyright 1960 and has been signed to Elvis by Ed Parker on the inside fly leaf. From Parker's notation it is reasonable to assume Parker has given Elvis  one copy  before as the  inscription makes note of Elvis not losing this copy. It was very common of Elvis to give copies of books to his friends and loved ones.The book has  approximately 15-22 pages of notations throughout.Book comes with a letter of provenance from Homer Gilleland, and Charlie Hodge who was present when the book was given to Alan Fortas whom also includes a letter regarding the book received from Elvis." (News, Source: ebay)

Songwriter Dennis Linde dies: On Friday, 63-year old composer Dennis Linde died. He wrote the Elvis hit record 'Burning Love'. Linde died from a rare long disease. He was rewarded with many awards during his career, among them are the 'Nashville Songwriter of the Year' and 'BMI's Song Writer Of The Year'. Linde wrote approximately 400 songs, of which "I Got A Feeling In My Body" and "For The Heart" ended up in Elvis's repertoire as well. (News, Source: Elvis Matters/Elvis News/Amber Smith)

EPE and Sun Records merchandise agreement: Sun Records (the licensee holders, not the actual studio) has just reached an agreement with Elvis Presley Enterprises. Starting Spring 2007, Sun Records will start selling official Elvis/ Sun souvenirs. So far, only ‘Sun Only’ souvenirs have been made, but that is soon to change. A first example is available at the new website www.sunrecords.com. (News, Source: Elvis Matters/Elvis News)

Elvis alive and well in Viva Las Parkes: In early January, the 10,000 residents of Parkes will add to their town's population by 50 per cent. The occasion? The Parkes Annual Elvis Festival. Now in its 15th year the celebration sees hip-swiveling Elvis impersonators and more than a few Priscilla wannabes arrive from all over the world. Elvis look-alikes play golf, sing gospel, get married in true Las Vegas style with Elvis celebrants and eat lots of fried chicken.

"Elvis A Legendary Performer Vol. 3" released: After volumes 1 and 2, the third edition of A Legendary Performer DVD has now been released. This time, the producers focused on seventies excerpt, highlighting some "unusual" shows from 1977. A TV trailer for the Singer Special (1968) and home movies of the Memphis Sessions (1969) are among the other eyecatchers. (News, Source: EP Gold)

Elvis collectable inadvertently released in Australia: Amber Smith tells EIN that Payless Entertainment in Australia has released a double CD album called Rock 'n' Roll Jukebox. The front cover prominently features Elvis both visually and narratively as one of the artists on the set. The catch is there are no Elvis tracks on the release! Elvis collectors take note. (News, Source: Amber Smith)

Chart update #2: Elvis' Christmas Wishes album is currently #3 in the Midprice album chart in Finland (week 51). Meanwhile, Elvis 30 #1 Hits has sold almost 80,000 copies in Finland. In Finland a gold record is awarded for sales of 15,000 and platinium for 30,000. (News, Source: changeofhabit/FECC)

Libertyland to get a second chance?: There is a good chance that LibertyLand begins a second life next year. However, the deal to open a new amusement park in Memphis hinges on keeping Elvis' favorite roller coaster, the Zippin Pippin. The Memphis City Council approved a nonbinding letter of intent by the Joyland Amusement organization to open a new park by May 31 at the former location of Libertyland.

Second song allegedly co-written by Elvis for sale: Paul Terry King has announced the sale of a second song allegedly co-written by Elvis. As EIN has reported on several occasions during 2006, many Elvis insiders were dismissive of the legitimacy of King's claim regarding an earlier song allegedly co-written by Elvis, If I'd Only Bought Her Roses. With a nice dash of clever hype, here is the story of the latest suspect song:

Songwriter Paul Terry King (co- author of the last known song composed but never released by Elvis) is now auctioning off his copyrighted interest to the song titled, "Just Like Rollin' Up Hill" (registered under Elvis Presley's BMI work number 7600186 on BMI.com).

Elvis Presley and former American Studios songwriter Paul Terry King co- wrote two songs in 1973 and performed them privately - "If I'd Only Bought Her Roses" and "Just Like Rollin' Up Hill."

"If I'd Only Bought Her Roses," US copyright PAu-1810-413, was purchased by Elvis-A-Rama in 2005. Elvis-A-Rama was planning an Elvis impersonation contest with the winning contestant singing "If I'd Only Bought Her Roses."

The song (along with remaining assets of Elvis-A-Rama) were purchased by billionaire Robert Sillerman's company CKX in 2005 for an undisclosed amount prior to release.

Sillerman purchased an 80% stake in Graceland in 2004 and last year acquired the hit show American Idol. To date Sillerman has let Elvis Presley's last known song, "Just Like Rollin' Up Hill," slip through the cracks. You can hear it on http://www.ElvisSong.info.

So, devoted fans, music enthusiasts, entrepreneurs and/or entertainers can now bid and get copyright and performance rights to one of the most prized possessions of the King himself, his music.

"It's Now or Never!": Sillerman is acquiring everything Elvis. This opportunity will never be available to the public again.

The song will be available to the public for auction on eBay Jan. 19th, 2007. Bid opens at $10,000 at 5 PM PST. To listen to song, press inquiries, etc., go to http://www.ElvisSong.info or contact eBay powerseller Mike Waters at 801-628-5323. (News, Source: Google /Elvis News)

EPE buys Chinese restaurant near Graceland: Elvis Presley Enterprises Inc. has bought China Buffet, a restaurant at 3641 Elvis Presley Blvd., from CNL APF Partners LP for $1 million. The 5,200-square-foot restaurant was built in 1991 and sits on .8 acres on the west side of Elvis Presley Boulevard south of Bluebird Road. The Shelby County Assessor in 2006 appraised it at $490,100. CNL Income Fund VIII Ltd., the predecessor company of CNL APF Partners, bought the property in August 1991 for about $877,000.

The restaurant will remain in operation as is, said Todd Morgan, spokesman for Elvis Presley Enterprises (EPE). Morgan said EPE saw this as an opportunity to invest near other EPE-owned properties. The restaurant is adjacent to the driveway of Elvis Presley's Heartbreak Hotel at 3677 Elvis Presley Blvd. In February 2005, Sports Entertainment Enterprises Inc. doing business as CKX Inc., a company owned by Robert F.X. Sillerman, bought an 85 percent interest in EPE. A year later, CKX announced plans to enhance Graceland visitors' experiences in the Whitehaven area around Graceland, while preserving the integrity of the mansion itself. CKX Inc. is traded on Nasdaq under the symbol CKXE. (News, Source: The Daily News Online & Chandler Reports/Charmaine Voisine)

Elvis in new U2 video clip: U2's brand new single, "Window in The Skies", features footage from the Stage Show (1956) and the '68 Comeback Special. The technically amazing clip shows Elvis actually singing to the song. Other artists play a part in the clip too. The clip is available on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VskbxuehP3I (Source: Elvis Matters/Elvis News)

Elvis "Love Me Tender" contract for sale: Movie studio Fox auctions movie star contracts: Movie studio 20th Century Fox will next month auction off more than 200 documents signed by stars such as Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley and Marlon Brando, Daily Variety reported on Wednesday. Proceeds from the sale, set to take place in New York on January 25 through auctioneer Swann Galleries, will benefit the Motion Picture & Television Fund, a charity for Hollywood actors and other employees.

Among the offerings are a 1946 internal memo advising that Norma Jean Dougherty was changing her professional name to Marilyn Monroe; a contract allowing Presley to violate strict grooming codes and wear his hair however he saw fit for "Love Me Tender," his 1956 feature film debut; and Brando's 1951 contract for "Viva Zapata," which paid him almost $125,000 for the film, the trade paper said.

Other contracts on the block have been signed by the likes of Lucille Ball, Cary Grant, Will Rogers, Rita Hayworth, Clark Gable, Katharine Hepburn, Lana Turner, Dean Martin, John Steinbeck, Natalie Wood, the Three Stooges, and Judy Garland, according to Swann's Web site.

"These papers are so cool that, as a fan of that history, I will have to restrain myself from bidding," Daily Variety quoted studio co-chairman Tom Rothman as saying. Fox is a unit of News Corp. (News, Source: Reuters)

Elvis Presley - The Collection: Sony/BMG USA has issued a set presenting three original album classics. It contains Elvis Presley (first album), Elvis (second album) and Loving You. (News, Source: Barry McLean /FECC)

Elvis items added to Memphis Hard Rock Cafe: The World famous Hard Rock Cafe on Beale Street in Memphis, has completely been re-designed. Visitors cant walk in without being overwhelmed by the many Elvis related items. One of the eye catchers, is Scotty Moore's Gibson Super 400 guitar, the big, handsome, cognac-colored guitar Elvis wielded in his 1968 comeback special. The much expanded Elvis collection also includes the denim jacket he wore in "Jailhouse Rock”, rare photos of Presley's childhood and teenaged years acquired from Elvis Presley Enterprises., a tank banner from Company D 1st Battalion 32nd Armor Division that was signed by Elvis in Germany, a two-piece stage jumpsuit from 1972, a suit Elvis wore in "Fun in Acapulco" and a parade uniform he wore in "Frankie and Johnny". (News, Source: Elvis Matters/Elvis News)

Jerry Schilling memoir gains a new publisher: Now in its third printing through publishing house, Gotham Books, Jerry Schilling's memoir, Me and a Guy Named Elvis, has been announced for issue by Thomson Gale Publishers in the US in late February 2007. Hardcover; ISBN:078629289X/ISBN-13: 9780786292899. (News, Source: ElvisBookResearch EIN)

Now available - "Elvis Decoded: A Fan's Guide To Deciphering The Myths And Misinformation": Patrick Lacy's long awaited examination of Elvis conspiracy theories has been released. About the book: Author Patrick Lacy is more than an Elvis fan. He has spent nearly ten years researching, writing and talking to some of the most credible -- and incredible -- sources in the strange, claim-filled world surrounding the myths and legend of Elvis.  His travels have taken him from Washington to Memphis, from Lauderdale Courts to Graceland, and from Tupelo to Las Vegas. Author Marshall Terrill says: Patrick Lacy sifts through a mountain of information and dissects the singer's life and death with the precision of a surgeon and the analytical mind of a forensic scientist. If you're still convinced that Elvis is alive after reading this well-researched offering, perhaps you need to have your pulse checked.” (News, Source: Elvis Decoded) Buy the book Visit the Elvis Decoded website Check out EIN's Elvis Conspiracy page

BBC Radio Elvis Special on 27 December: BBC Radio Cornwall's Matt Shepherd is presenting another Elvis Special this Christmas. Matt will be talking to Joe Esposito about his new book, and Todd Morgan from EPE will be talking about Graceland at Christmas, and their plans to mark the 30th anniversary of Elvis' death. There will be classic hits, and rarities with Matt who is a massive Elvis fan. Don't worry if you don't live in Cornwall as you can hear the show live online from 6.05pm UK time on Wednesday 27 December 2006. Just log on to www.bbc.co.uk/cornwall and click on the 'listen live' option at the top of the page. (News, Source: Matt Shepherd)

Special holiday programming on Elvis Radio: Sirius Satellite 13 has a great lineup of special programming from Christmas Eve through New Year's Day.  Much to much to list here, so check it out on the Elvis Radio page of Sirius.com!: (News, Source: EPE)

Keith Alverson opens Elvis Expo in Belgium: Photographer Keith Alverson will present a large number of unique live pictures of Elvis for a One Day Only Exposition in Belgium on January 6, 2007 at the Elvis Birthday Party of the Dutch/Belgian fanclub ElvisMatters . He will comment his pictures during a slide show on big screen. Included in the tickets are live music, warm and cold buffet, free drinks all night and an extra large Birthday Cake. Info and tickets (37/45 euro) through info@elvismatters.com. (News, Source: Elvis Matters/Elvis News)

Book About The History Of Memphis published: Jim Browder of Memphis, informed his book  "Memphis.......JB Style", was published today. Jim tells , It is over 200 pages and tells history of memphis from 1819 to date. It contains  a lot of detailed information about Elvis, and will be available to Elvis fans. (News, Source: Muris Colgan/EP Gold)

2006/12/19                        Muiris Colgan   

A Day In The West Presents Elvis Presley Movie Memories: Sedona, Arizona: When Bob Bradshaw came to Sedona back in 1945 there wasn't much here. Over the next 50 years,  many films were made in Sedona and Bob was a part of most of them, serving as location scout, stuntman, and even actor. He built the first western town for use in the booming movie industry (located beneath Coffee Pot Rock), and was one of the first Marlboro Men - many say he is still alive because he never actually smoked. Bob Bradshaw is also one of the renowned early photographers of Sedona. The Adventure Company and A Day In The West are presenting brief vignettes of selected Bob Bradshaw's photographs and movie memories. In 1967, the movie was Stay Away Joe, starring Elvis Presley, Katy Jurado, Burgess Meredith, Joan Blondell, L.Q. Jones, Warren Vanders, Buck Kartalian, Susan Trustman, Quentin Dean, Henry Jones, Anne Seymour, Thomas Gomez, Doug Henderson, Angus Duncan and Michael Love. The Hollywood studio was MGM.

"Elvis Presley Inspirations": EIN announced publication of this book on 13 Dec 2006. Here is the cover artwork and publisher's pr. This 160 page, 6x6", hardcover book by Mike Evans will be released in May 2007. This is what the publisher, Andrews McMeel Publishing, says about it: "To commemorate the 30th anniversary of Elvis Presley's death on August 16, 2007, music historian Mike Evans introduces direct quotes from Presley—culled from the few rare interviews given during Presley's lifetime—and stylizes them amid a backdrop of black-and-white iconic images." (News, Source: Elvis News)

"The Essential Elvis Presley" CD: Collectors will be interested to know that Sony-BMG Australia has advised EIN that the February 2007 release of this doublke album will be an Australian pressing (as against an imported edition). (News, Source: Sony BMG)

Unusual piece of Presley history bought: The American history buff and Elvis expert Julian Riley has bought the old (abandoned) town hall of Verona, Mississippi where Gladys and Vernon married in 1933. Riley’s wish is to restore the entire site to its former glory. Riley is also one of the authors of a new encyclopaedia on Elvis’s family. The ‘family bible’ with some unusual family pictures should be in print by August 2007. (News, Source: Elvis Matters/Elvis News)

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Schilling memoir into third printing & Elvis-Nixon meeting suit on display: Jerry Schilling was on Sirius the other day he said that his hard cover book is now in it's third printing. The book will be out in paperback edition including an extra chapter in July 2007. Jerry also said that he found out today that the Nixon Presidential Library will have the suit Elvis wore to met Nixon on display, and this may happen as early as January. (News, Source: Elvis Unlimited /Elvis News)

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Biography of legendary songwriter "Doc" Pomus: The only biography of colorful and legendary songwriter Doc Pomus, who wrote such beloved songs as "Lonely Avenue," "Save the Last Dance for Me," and "Viva Las Vegas" "Doc was more than a man among men. He was the sun." (Lou Reed) One of the most original, influential, and commercially successful American songwriters, Doc Pomus (1927-1991) is remembered best for the dozens of hits he wrote during rock 'n' roll's first decade. A role model for several generations of composers, Doc was renowned for his mastery of virtually every popular style, from the gutbucket rhythm and blues of "Lonely Avenue" to the symphonic invention of "Save the Last Dance for Me" to the pop confection of "Viva Las Vegas." His songs have been recorded by everyone from Ray Charles, Elvis Presley, and B.B. King to Bob Dylan, Led Zeppelin, and Bruce Springsteen.

# Hardcover: 416 pages........# Publisher: Da Capo Press (February 26, 2007)......# ISBN: 0306813009

About the Author: Alex Halberstadt's writing has appeared in the New York Times, the Washington Post, GQ, the Los Angeles Times, the Oxford American, Grand Street, Dissent, and elsewhere. He is best known for his award-winning articles on American music that appear on Salon.com. He lives in Brooklyn, New York.

Peter Guralnick (Foreword) is the author of the best-selling two-volume biography of Elvis Presley, Last Train to Memphis and Careless Love. Guralnick was one of Doc's favorite authors and a close friend. He lives in Massachusetts.

"This Is Elvis" DVD update: The Commercial Appeal included this information in a recent article:

Solt says he has more Presley DVDs in the works, including an upgrade of "Elvis: The Great Performances" -- a three volume documentary series from the early '90s that he produced. Solt plans on remastering the discs and adding bonus material and reissuing the discs after the rights revert back to his company in early 2008.

One project that may not be making its way to DVD -- at least in the lavish form that had been expected -- is Solt and Malcolm Leo's 1981 Presley documentary "This Is Elvis." The film, a combination of archival news and performance footage as well as dramatic re-creations, was released in a now out-of-print VHS edition in 1982. That version was different than what was seen in theaters and on television, as the producers could not get clearance to include "Are You Lonesome Tonight" on the video, thus robbing the film of its denouement, a scene of an aging, addled Presley struggling his way through the song's spoken-word recitation. With that rights issue cleared, Solt and Leo also decided that the new DVD version would revamp the documentary's narrative by losing the majority of the re-creation scenes -- featuring a handful of actors playing Presley throughout his life.

In August, British music magazine MOJO reported that a deluxe edition of "This Is Elvis" -- featuring both the original theatrical version and a new director's cut of the film plus bonus material -- would be released by Warner Bros. in August 2007, to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Presley's death. But Solt and project partner Malcolm Leo now say the deluxe DVD plans have been tabled by Warner Bros., and they're uncertain in what, if any, form the disc will come out next year.

"There was a great deal of planning, and initially the cooperation from Warner Bros was terrific," says Leo. "And then we got into an assessment of how and when was the best time to do it -- obviously with the thirtieth anniversary of Elvis' death coming up, an opportunity was there. But then suddenly certain cost issues came into play."

According to Solt, Warner's current policy on all new, expanded DVD projects is to simultaneously ready a high-definition version of the film in order to meet with that technology when it becomes more prominent in the next couple years.

"Unfortunately, 'This Is Elvis' is a patchwork of a thousand sources, so to go back to every one of them and high-def them is a very, very expensive process," he says. "The studio typically sees things in terms of a normal 35 millimeter feature film, but our film is not that -- it's a patchwork quilt. Unfortunately, as much as they understood that, they still wanted to upgrade to a level that was going to be cost-prohibitive and which has ultimately doomed the project for now."

A similar patchwork documentary, The Who's "The Kids Are Alright," was released to much acclaim in an expanded edition in 2003, and Solt had hoped to do the same for "This Is Elvis," utilizing the digital clean-up process brought to bear on the Sullivan DVDs.

"We had ways of doing a beautiful new version that would've cost a third of what they were suggesting, and that's what we wanted to do," he says. "But they won't go forward unless they can spend the big bucks, and they can't afford to spend the big bucks, so there goes the project for right now."

Another part of what doomed the expanded "This Is Elvis" may have been internal financial issues with Warner Bros.

"The truth is they've had a rough year at Warners -- they've had so many budget cuts," says Solt. "I hate to say it, but I think we got caught up in that." Leo's other pending Warner Bros. project -- a DVD of the unseen screen tests for "Gone with the Wind" -- is also in limbo, likely for the same reasons.

Warner Bros. would not comment specifically about "This Is Elvis." But Warner Home Video representative Ronnie Sass did note that the company "plans on fully honoring Elvis in this coming 30th anniversary year. With Warner Bros. owning 17 Elvis films -- more than any other studio -- you can imagine we'll be offering consumers some pretty wonderful choices."

In all likelihood, Warner's 30th anniversary Presley DVD rollout will include a bare-bones release of "This Is Elvis," while a deluxe edition may yet come out down the line.

"I have every reason to think that version will exist ultimately," says Leo. "Of course, just when that will happen is hard to say." (News, Source: Commercial Appeal)

Listen to "The Million Dollar Quartet" BBC radio show

Elvis owned necklace for sale on ebay: eBay surfers surely must have noticed it: the 14 k gold (heavy) necklace that Elvis got from Barron Hilton in 1973, is now for sale. Elvis wore the necklace both on and off stage, even on the day he devorced Priscilla. The item comes with a COA by Joe Esposito. Bidding starts at $80,000. (News, Source: Elvis Matters /Elvis News)

How much for that Elvis cape?: Elvis Matters in the EC reports: "One of our members asked us how much the 'Planet Cape' sold for at the Dick Clark auction. The answer: 20.000 dollar, although there's no guarantee that this cape is the real thing. B&K Enterprises makes these capes by the dozen. Other items on the same auction block proved to be fake, such as 2 TCB and 1 TLC necklaces, although they sold for up to 1.000 dollars each". (News, Source: Elvis Matters/Elvis News)

Elvis song #2 in list of best Christmas songs: Variety has named "Blue Christmas" one of the top Christmas songs in the world. The song was ranked #2 in the Top 10, with Variety commenting on the "obvious melancholy in Elvis's voice, without the traditional sugar sweet sentimantality". The #1 spot went to The Pretenders with "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas", #3 was U2 and "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)". (News, Source: Amber Smith)

Another Elvis landmark torn down: America is less another Elvis landmark. Workers have demolished the New Haven Coliseum in Connecticut. Elvis performed 3 times at the Coliseum: July 16 and 17, 1975, and July 30th, 1976 for a total of 33.000 fans. The Coliseum was built in 1970 as a Sports center, initially named "Veterans Memorial Coliseum". 36 years later, the Coliseum is no more, although many tried to prevent this 'historic place' from being torn down. There is no Elvis plaque to remember the concerts. (News, Source: Source: Elvis Matters /Elvis News)

Memories of Bill Black on The Elvis Hour: On this week's edition of The Elvis Hour they will talk with Frankie Avalon a teen idol of the late 50's who has fond memories of The King. The program also recalls Elvis' first television appearance and talk with Johnny Cash about a rare sun recording session with the million dollar quartet. There is also a salute Bill Black the bass player who formed that first trio with Elvis and Scotty Moore. Only at www.elvisthemagazine.com (News, Source: Darwin Lamm)

Elvis Presley - Paternity Suit Book & DVD: The latest release from Praytome Publishing is a composite book & DVD release. From the press release: 20 years of research and hard detective work and additional 18 months of pure production time have gone by. Different than our other productions which were most of the time advertised long before their release dates we kept the work about this extreme and highly controversial topic behind the curtain and over the years every little detail of this work has been handled as top secret. A 100-pages full-colour, hard cover book with the use of the outstanding, high quality paper stock being established as best choice paper for books by our releases of the "Elvis - Behind The Image" & "Elvis - Born To Rock". The outstanding and thrilling script of Bud Glass (author of "Elvis - Behind The Image") for the first time breaks down iron walls of silence and leads you behind the scenes of one of the biggest sex scandals in history of music.

The book goes along this line and has original court documents and photos that allow your own research for the mystery behind the most controversial sex scandal in the history of music.

Published by "Praytome Publishing" this 100 pages, full colored, hardback book co-operates perfectly with the included full length 95 minutes DVD documentary and German subtitles for the documentary. Now available direct from Praytome Publishing (Conspiracy, Source: Bud Glass)

Elvis' family tree: Most Elvis Presley fans people know where he was born - Tupelo. They know where he went - worldwide. But beyond Lisa Marie, Priscilla, Vernon and Gladys Presley, most folks don't know Elvis' people. A pair of Lee County fans and researchers aim to change that. Julian Riley of Verona and Rachel Anne Harden of Saltillo have been hiking through cemeteries, rummaging through photo albums and talking with Elvis' kin to flesh out the King of Rock 'n' Roll's family tree.

"I think you can safely say that Rachel and I know more about Elvis Presley's tree than anyone else in the world," Riley said. "You'd have to live here to do it," Harden added. "You couldn't live in Germany or Denmark."

A longtime history buff, Riley owns the original Verona Town Hall, where Gladys Smith married Vernon Presley on June 17, 1933. He talked about the wedding on TV, and Harden, an Elvis fan, wanted to make sure he had his facts right. Once Riley convinced her of his case, the pair got to talking about a project they could undertake together.

"We decided to trace his family all the way back to the Revolutionary War period," Riley said. "We're doing both sides of the family," Harden said.

They've applied bleach to tombstones throughout Lee and Itawamba counties, and they've even repaired a few broken tombstones. They've sat in people's homes, and talked about connections and birthdays. "A lot of the people knew they were related to Elvis," Harden said, "but they didn't know how. We told them how."

Carthey Presley Derrick was the granddaughter of Elvis's great-great-aunt, Rosalinda Presley. Riley and Harden met Derrick about a month before she died. "She let us go through all of her old pictures, and she called all her relatives," Riley said. "She let us in, so to speak. She was such a big help to us."

Derrick and her relatives will be included in a book and Web site that Riley and Harden hope to finish by August in time for the 30th anniversary of Elvis' death.

"Until then, we want to get as many stories as we can," Riley said, adding that he and Harden may be contacted at et1935@comcast.net. "We'd like any help we can get." (News, Source: djournal)

"The Elvis Conspiracy?' - Out of print for years - now available: Dick Grob's huge hardcover is finally available again to the public. The book explores the man, tells the story of his last days and gives the reader the first real insight into a world of which very few were privy. What was it like to be a part of this world behind the famous music gates in Memphis, Tennessee? What exactly happened? How do you go about planning and executing the largest funeral since President Kennedy's assassination? The book details the events and decisions made August 16, 1977, and the days that followed. More importantly, The Elvis Conspiracy? details the players in this tragedy, the actual events which took place, narrated by someone who was there. Thanks to the author's police background and professionalism, he was able to investigate the burning question proposed by Elvis' father and the world...."Did Elvis Have to Die?" (Conspiracy, Source: Jamie Brown)

Aloha Veronica: Elvis's music is here to stay, that's about obvious. The Dutch TV station 'Veronica' is putting the full spotlight on Elvis on December 26th. Scheduled are: "Aloha From Hawaii" (6.55 pm),  "This is Elvis" (8.05 pm),  "Elvis by the Presleys" (10.05 pm) and "Elvis Lives!" (1.10 am). (News, Source: EP Gold)

E.P. in Concert (Book Review): EIN was fortunate to recently obtain a copy of this legendary book by Paul Lichter. Does it live up to its hype as one of the best, if not the best, book about Elvis' concert years from 1969 to 1977? Read EIN's detailed review to find out the answer. (Book Review, Source: EIN)

"Elvis Hits 1956" CD: Here is a new '56 CD entitled "Hits 1956" featuring recordings and several outtakes from 1956. Tracklisting: 01. Heartbreak Hotel, 02. Blue Suede Shoes, 03. I Want You, I Need You, I Love You, 04. Hound Dog, 05. Don't Be Cruel, 06. Blue Moon, 07. Love Me Tender, 08. Any Way You Want Me, 09. I Don't Care If The Sun Don't Shine, 10. I Got A Woman (Alternate Take), 11. Money Honey, 12. I'm Counting On You (Alternate Take 13), 13. My Baby Left Me 14. On Sided Love Affair (Alternate Take 8), 15. So Glad You're Mine, 16. I'm Gonna Sit Right Down And Cry (Over You), 17. Tutti Frutti, 19. Lawdy Miss Clawdy (Alternate Take 9), 20. Shake Rattle And Roll (Alternate Take 2), 21. Playing For Keeps, 22. How's The World Treating You, 23. Long Tall Sally, 24. Paralysed, 25. First In Line (it appears track 18 is missing) (News, Source: Elvis Express)

"Elvis World #82" released: The latest edition of Bill E. Burk's long running quarterly magazine, Elvis World, is available, and as usual is packed with the latest "inside" news and articles direct from Memphis. Take a look inside 'Elvis World #82' with EIN (News, Source: EIN) Visit Bill E. Burk's Elvis World Online (exclusive to EIN)

Download "Elvis The Movie" starring Kurt Russell: Spanish_Eyes posted this news on the FECC board. Click to dowload (Source: FECC)

Elvis song on Vatican CD: We reported some time ago that an Elvis song was being played on Vatican Radio. Well now comes the news: "Almost 30 years after his untimely death, Elvis seems to get recognition from Rome. He is one of the 13 international stars whose music has been translated to Latin. One song made it to the new Vatican CD «Album Omnium temporum latine cantatum optimum». According to Radio Vatican, the cd is proof again that music is universal, and that Latin songs are no exception to that rule." (News, Source: Elvis Matters /Elvis News)

Revenues for the quarter ending September 30, 2006 were $528,097 compared to $415,853 for the same period of 2005. Revenues for the nine month period ending September 30, 2006 were $2,155,323 compared to $1,322,902 for the same period of 2005.

The majority of the revenues are generated from Sun's catalogue of over 8,000 master recordings. The Company has been working to expand its merchandising of Sun logo products. In October, Sun announced that it had entered into a licensing agreement with Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. for the use of its trademarks in the name, image and likeness of Elvis Presley together with the Sun Records logo. Sun is working on a broad range of Sun/Elvis retail products, the first of which are expected to be available for retail sales in the first quarter of 2007. (Sale of EPE, Source: MSN Money)

Elvis piano expected to fetch US$2m: On Christmas Eve, someone's going to win Elvis Presley's Knabe & Co. grand piano. But it won't come cheap. A fellow from Palm Springs, Calif., has put up $225,100, and that trumps a bid from Atlanta by $100.

"We just turned down an offer of $1 million for it," said Daniel Jelladian, CEO of FreeSell.com, where the King's piano is on auction. "The guy called to ask us to stop the auction for $1 million."

Jelladian said he expects the piano to fetch more than $2 million, and he has reason to believe.

John Lennon once said, "Before Elvis there was nothing." In this case, before Elvis' piano went on the block, Lennon's sold for $2.08 million. "We're getting people contacting us from all over the world," Jelladian said. "We've gotten e-mails from Japan."

The piano is currently at FreeSell.com's headquarters in Fresno, Calif., and it has been in private hands since 1990. Before that, it was housed at the Elvis O-Rama museum in Las Vegas, Jelladian said. According to a history at www.freesell.com, the piano was built in 1911. From the 1930s to 1957, it was in Memphis' Ellis Auditorium and Performance Hall, where musical greats such as W.C. Handy, Duke Ellington, Count Basie and Cab Calloway played it. Elvis bought it in 1957. The authenticity is guaranteed by the seller, and there are signed affidavits, photos and receipts posted at the auction site.

"We've never had an item as important as this piano," Jelladian said.

In the end, there can be only one winner of the auction that ends on Christmas Eve, but take heart because there's still plenty of choice Elvis memorabilia out there.

"We're planning another auction," Jelladian said. "We also have his guitar and his peacock jumpsuit and the suit he wore in 'Clambake.'" (News, Source: Daily Journal)

"Since Cincinnati" CD released: The new re-issue of the CD "Since Cincinnati" is out now. This is actually an upgrade of the original release that was released way back in 1990. This CD features the before last concert of Elvis on June 25th, 1977. The sound has been restored, and will come in a new artwork. The original CD is one of the rarest import CD out there, so now you have a chance to get this CD in your collection and in an improved sound quality. Tracklisting: Golden Mile (by J.D. Sumner & The Stamps)/ If You Don't Come Back (by J.D. Sumner & the Stamps) / Hot Hot Sunday (by The Sweet Inspirations)/ If You Leave Me Now (by The Sweet Inspirations) / Also Sprach Zarathustra / C. C. Rider/ Dialogue / I Got A Woman/ Amen / Love Me / If You Love Me Let Me Know / You Gave Me A Mountain / Jailhouse Rock / O Solo Mio/ It's Now Or Never / Little Sister / Teddy Bear/ Don't Be Cruel / And I Love you so / My way / Introductions / Early Morning Rain / What'd I Say / Johnny B. Goode / I Really Don't Want To Know / Introductions; Vernon on stage / Unchained Melody / Hound Dog / Can't Help Falling In Love / Closing Vamp (News, Source: FECC)

New edition of "Elvis 309 #1 Hits" in Germany: Announced for release February 2, 2007 in Germany is yet another edition of the "ELV1S 30 #1 Hits" compilation. This edition looks like a budget edition in a cardboard box. (News, Source: Collectors Service /Elvis News)

Elvis movies inspire "All Shook Up," a Broadway musical stopping in Seattle: Conjure Elvis Presley....do you hear him in your mind singing " Jailhouse Rock" or "Love Me Tender" in that sultry voice? You're not alone. But what one tends to forget is that Elvis was not just a pop superstar. He was also a movie star, who introduced many hit tunes through his 31 feature films.

Vintage publicity posters for those flicks are now rock collectibles. Look! There's Elvis strumming a ukulele in "Blue Hawaii." And there's Elvis, smooching with Ann-Margret in "Viva Las Vegas." And ... hey! Isn't that Elvis in Seattle? Yup, the Space Needle looms behind him, in the poster for "It Happened at the World's Fair."

Largely dismissed by critics, Presley's films have had nowhere near the shelf life of his music. But at least one person held a private Elvis Presley film festival recently: Joe DiPietro, who wrote the Broadway musical "All Shook Up." Now on national tour, it features two dozen popular tunes Elvis recorded and runs tonight through Sunday at the Paramount Theatre. The Presley estate gave its official blessing to "All Shook Up," with one string attached: The show had to be a fictional musical comedy, not a revue or a biographical work.

"They're sort of amazing," DiPietro says. "Elvis was one of the few entertainers who actually created his own film genre. And all but two of his movies made money."

Today, the Elvis celluloid canon appeals mainly to those who can't get enough of the E-Man in any format. Most of the pics are scenic but highly formulaic, with Elvis gamely playing, say, a penniless fisherman, a circus roustabout, or a race-car driver, as he serenades and woos one comely starlet after another: Ursula Andress, Stella Stevens, Juliet Prowse ...

DiPietro (the writer-lyricist of the hit Off Broadway musical "I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change"), says the Elvis movies "were about beautiful young people falling in and out of love to rock 'n' roll music." But he sees a key distinction between the early releases and what came later. "Early on, like in 'Jailhouse Rock,' Elvis was going for the James Dean, Marlon Brando, rebel thing.

"But he was never comfortable with that image of the hip-swiveling rebel rocker. He always viewed himself as a wholesome country boy. It was a very calculated move by his manager, Colonel Tom Parker, to carefully transform Elvis' screen image into something more wholesome."

It worked. Such songs as the title track from "Blue Hawaii," cracks DiPietro, could have " been sung by Perry Como." And the relative quality of the flicks declined in time. "Sometimes Elvis worked with great directors and co-stars. By the end it was, 'I want to go to Acapulco for a month — let's make a movie.' "

For "All Shook Up," DiPietro cooked up a plot he believes is "like all of Shakespeare's comedies and Elvis' movies rolled into one." The Bard of Avon meets the King of Graceland? "Sure. These are certainly two artists who reflect Western culture — in different ways, of course."

In its 2005 world premiere run on Broadway, "All Shook Up" came on as a genial, tongue-in-cheek romp. Set in 1955, it concerns a hunky drifter who hormonally discombobulates a sleepy little town after he roars in on his motorbike. The show gave a huge boost to the career of the actor who played the Elvis-styled character of Chad: Spokane native Cheyenne Jackson, who had a flourishing stage career in Seattle before hitting it big in New York.

Jackson was praised by critics, but the show itself drew mixed reviews (one dubbed it a "karaoke contest") and lasted barely six months on Broadway. "It came out at a time when the critical community was ready to bash 'jukebox' musicals," suggests DiPietro. "The negative critics made it sound uncool, which is hard to overcome in New York." However, the road version, starring Joe Mandragona as Chad, is selling well — thanks in good measure to a songlist that includes "Don't Be Cruel," "Heartbreak Hotel" and other Elvis faves.

One last question: Of all those Elvis movies, which holds up best? "I'd have to say 'Viva Las Vegas.' It's still fun to watch these two almost freakishly gorgeous people, Elvis and Ann-Margret, fall in love, sing great songs and dance around a ridiculous plot." (News, Source: The Seattle Times)

EPE reacts to Elvis wedding band being auctioned: The "Elvis wedding ring" that is presently publicized for auction by the Profiles in History auciton house is said to have left Elvis's possession when he gave it to an entourage member, David Stanley and his wife – reportedly a sweet gesture of goodwill from Elvis late in his life, wishing the Stanleys the best in their marriage several years after his own marriage had ended. The auction has inspired news coverage and quite a bit of speculation on various Elvis fan sites and message boards.

Priscilla Presley and Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. have no concrete documentation of their own to put them in a position to verify the story of the gift or the authenticity of the ring as having once belonged to Elvis, or to express any doubt about it. However, a couple of points beg clarification.

If the ring being auctioned did indeed belong to Elvis, then it would have to be Elvis's "second" wedding ring - the one Priscilla gave Elvis as a replacement when he lost his original one at their ranch in Mississippi not too long after their wedding. Elvis's original wedding ring had become loose on his finger and he was concerned that it might slip off while he was working on the ranch, so he tied it to a kerchief around his neck. The ring ultimately fell from the kerchief, which Elvis did not notice at the moment it happened. After much searching, the ring was not found. Priscilla soon gave Elvis another ring to replace his original. The second ring was of a completely different design, such as the one presently being auctioned.

Also, in some news stories the ring that is being auctioned has been misidentified as the one Elvis gave to Priscilla on their wedding day. This is not true and the auction company is not the source of that misinformation. Priscilla still has her wedding and engagement rings from Elvis and treasures them. (News, Source: EPE)

"Elvis The Louisiana Hayride Years 1954-56": EIN recently had the pleasure of exploring this book. What we found was an historic treasure trove of impressive narrative and stunning visuals - an enlightening journey which evokes the fun, tension and passion of life experienced by Elvis on the Hayride. (Book Review, Source: EIN)

Million Dollar Quartet radio special in UK: On Saturday 16th December, BBC Radio 2 will broadcast a documentary called Million Dollar Quartet between 8:00pm - 9:00pm. Mark Lamarr tells the story of the Million Dollar Quartet, one of the most famous jam sessions in the history of pop music that saw Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis perform together in a studio in Memphis, Tennessee, on a Tuesday afternoon in December 1956. Including contributions from Peter Guralnick, Colin Escott, Carl Perkins, Sam Phillips, Johnny Cash and Jerry Lee Lewis. (News, Source: EP Gold)

Elvis: Entertainer or Educator?: With Elvis Presley’s seventy-second birthday just around the corner on the eighth of January, it would seem there would be little new to learn about him, but it turns out there is. Although he may not have realized it, Elvis Presley’s sexy moves actually modeled the ideal physical techniques for supporting a rich, warm singing voice – techniques still studied today by some of the recording industry’s biggest stars.

“Elvis was the perfect singing machine,” says celebrity voice coach Renee Grant-Williams. “He had all the right moves.”

“I constantly reference Elvis in my teaching,” claims Grant-Williams. “He had very strong legs, which he used as the basis for his support. He literally pushed into the floor using that karate-type crouch. He kept his entire upper body very loose so that it could resonate. And the way he cocked his head over the microphone really allowed the sound to vibrate freely.”

“Did he know what he was doing?” Grant-Williams asks. “Probably not, but he had extraordinary instincts and in his own way, I think he truly studied singing. He used to sit out on the back porch for hours on late summer nights with the guitar his mother gave him, trying to imitate the singers he heard at gospel churches and nightclubs.”

Grant-Williams teaches the wisdom of using Elvis’ techniques to stars such as Hannah Montana, Faith Hill, The Dixie Chicks, Tim McGraw, Larry Gatlin, Bo Bice, and Huey Lewis.

“My students are surprised and grateful to have someone familiar they can relate to,” Grant-Williams says. “In fact, the first time I worked with Tim McGraw on using his body to support his voice, he looked up with mischief in his eyes and mumbled in true Elvis-style, “Thank you. Thankyouverymuch.”

Grant-Williams feels that even Elvis’ famous lip curl gave his voice an edge. “As sound leaves the body it needs to resonate against something specific,” she says. “There are options – you can direct that flow of sound to the nose, the throat, the jaw or to the sinus cavities in the face. But, I think what Elvis did – as evidenced by his lip curl – was to aim the vibration stream right at his teeth.”

“This was ingenious,” Grant-Williams says. “There’s a kind of sweet spot at the front of the teeth where vibrations can focus and still pick up resonance from all the other areas.”

“Because his moves and techniques live on, Elvis will never completely leave the building,” adds Grant-Williams.

Grant-Williams offers more advice in her book, “Voice Power: Using Your Voice to Captivate, Persuade, and Command Attention” published by AMACOM Books, New York. This book is endorsed by Paul Harvey and was selected by “Soundview Executive Book Summaries.” (News, Source: Renee Grant-Williams/Sanja Meegin)

The King's Crown: Everything Elvis ends up on the auction block. This tim a model of Elvis Presley's teeth and porcelain crown are to be auctioned by former Memphis dentist's family on e-Bay, beginning January 8, 2007.

Memphis, Tennessee - The family of former Memphis dentist Dr. Henry Weiss will put a model of Elvis Presley's teeth and a crown made for the star, still revered by millions around the world, up for auction on e-Bay beginning January 8, 2007 - the date of what would have been Presley's 72nd birthday. Presley died unexpectedly on August 16, 1977. Weiss was Presley's dentist through 1971. He affectionately called the crown the "King's Crown." The model and crown will be accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity signed by Joe Esposito, Presley's Road Manager from 1960 until his death in 1977. The Weiss Family will put the item up for auction.

In his letter, Esposito states, "On several occasions we went to Elvis' dentist, Dr. Henry Weiss, whose offices were located in the 430 Dermon Building in downtown Memphis. He did any and all dental work including the preparation of a porcelain crown for Elvis' front tooth. Dr. Weiss always kept an extra crown on the model of Elvis Presley's teeth in the event that he might chip or crack his crown. In February of 1971, Elvis cracked his crown on a microphone while performing at the International Hotel, currently known as the Hilton Hotel - Las Vegas. Dr. Weiss' son, S. Lewis Weiss, flew a replacement crown to Las Vegas."

Esposito's letter goes on to authenticate and certify that Dr. Henry Weiss was Presley's dentist through 1971 and that members of the Weiss family are, in fact, in possession of the model of Presley's teeth and the porcelain "King's Crown." Esposito was a member of the so-called "Memphis Mafia" - the nickname of a group of Elvis' friends and employees.

Dr. Henry Weiss was born on Christmas day, 1907 and died December 11, 1990. He graduated from the University Of Tennessee College Of Dentistry with a DDS Degree in 1931. He practiced dentistry in Memphis for 57 years and was a recipient of the Tennessee Dental Association's Fellowship Award. (News, Source: The United Elvis Presley Society/Elvis News)

Idea for remixed stereo album in 2007: EIN found this posting by Elvisfan on the 30 Number One's messageboard an interesting one:

Some think Elvis is still alive. But just look at how EPE is ran today and you'll know he's really gone. It's no secret that 2007 is the big 30th anniversary of EP's death but it's also the 50th anniversary of his biggest rock hit Jailhouse Rock.

So why not RCA put together for the first time ever a remixed stereo mix album of the 1957-58 stereo mixes but with EP's voice in the middle and the music in surround format. Back in 1988 RCA released an album called Essential Elvis Volume 2-Stereo 57 of binaural stereo mixes and followed that up a couple years later with Essential Elvis Volume 3-Hits Like Never Before which were all outtakes in stereo from 1958.

So now that we know certain songs have been released in binaural stereo mix, why not a real stereo mix of the 1957-58 tracks in stereo? There's nothing like this on the main stream market and I do believe that it would sell in large numbers with a good amount of promotion. This would be new and creative and appealing to casual fans, die hard fans and newer fans. Plus it's some of his biggest hits from his highest peak. Here's what I was thinking of:

1)Jailhouse Rock 2)Baby I Don't Care 3)Young And Beautiful 4)Treat Me Nice (movie version) 5)I Beg Of You 6)Is It So Strange 7)Blueberry Hill 8)Mean Woman Blues 9)That's When Your Heartaches Begin 10)Tell Me Why 11)All Shook Up 12)Got Alot O' Livin' To Do 13)I Believe 14)King Creole 15)A Fool Such As I 16)Your Cheatin' Heart 17)I Got Stung 18)I Need Your Love Tonight 19)Wear My Ring Around Your Neck 20)A Big Hunk O' Love 21)Crawfish (extened version) 22)Doncha Think It's Time 23)Ain't That Loving You Baby 24)Peace In The Valley (News, Source: Elvis Number One's)

Elvis Outlet - rare items owned by Elvis and The Colonel for sale (News, Source: Charmaine Voisine)

Push for Tupelo stamp honoring Elvis: Muiris Colgan posted this on the Elvis Number One's board:

Considering the huge success of the Elvis stamp, I have suggested to the Mayor of Tupelo it would be a good idea to request a stamp depicting Elvis's birthplace in Tupelo. The US Postal Service has already received my email...........and replied:

The Mayor of Tupelo Ed Neely agrees it is an idea worth pursuing. Please send your request to

CITIZENS' STAMP ADVISORY COMMITTEE
U.S. POSTAL SERVICE
1735 N LYNN ST STE 5013
ARLINGTON VA 22209-6432 (News, Source: Muiris Colgan)

Presley Center Courts banners for auction: In 1976 Elvis entered in to his sole business venture and investment – The Presley Center Courts Racquet Ball Club in Memphis Tennessee. Land was purchased in Memphis with plans to open also in Nashville and across the USA, a very important ‘out of music’ investment. To promote the venture business cards etc were printed and three stunning banners produced. The banners are about to be auctioned. Behind the scenes there was more than a bit of intrigue. Read full story & view large size images of all three banners (News, Source: EP Gold)

New Elvis pencil sketch artist unveils works: Up and coming pencil portrait artist Colvin Ward brings fans a series of sensational life-like pencil portraits. View larger image of four of Colvin's Elvis works (News, Source: Dean Watson)

Cover artwork for "The Gospel Side of Elvis": Here is the cover artwork for this book by Joe Moscheo. See earlier news item below dated 3 December 2006 (News, Source: ElvisBookResearch)

New book announced: Elvis: Inspirations, Mike Evans, Hardcover: 160 pages, Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing (May 1, 2007), Language: English, ISBN: 0740763598 (News, Source: ElvisBookResearch)

More book titles announced for 2007: A number of softcover and reprints of existing Elvis book titles have been announced for release next year. They are:

Fortunate Son: The Life of Elvis Presley, Charles L. Ponce de Leon, Paperback: 256 pages,Publisher: Hill and Wang (August 7, 2007),Language: English,ISBN: 0809016419

Elvis Presley, Bobbie Ann Mason, Paperback: 192 pages, Publisher: Penguin (Non-Classics) (July 31, 2007), Language: English, ISBN: 0143038893

Elvis: A Life in Pictures, Paperback, Publisher: Life (July 24, 2007), Language: English, ISBN: 1933821868 Paperback: 368 pages

Me and A Guy Named Elvis: My Lifelong Friendship with Elvis Presley, Jerry Schilling with Chuck Crisafulli, Publisher: Gotham (July 19, 2007), Language: English, ISBN: 1592403050

Elvis: A Celebration, Mike Evans, Paperback: 608 pages, Publisher: DK ADULT (June 18, 2007), Language: English, ISBN: 0756628849

Judgment and Grace in Dixie: Southern Faiths from Faulkner to Elvis, Charles Reagan Wilson, Paperback: 224 pages, Publisher: University of Georgia Press (June 2007), Language: English, ISBN: 0820329657 (News, Source: ElvisBookResearch)

Visit EIN's comprehensive listing of Elvis books published in 2006 and 2007

....more than 100 books in 2006 and nearly 40 already announced for 2007!

"If you're looking for Trouble!"....clever Elvis & Robbie Williams clip on YouTube

(Audio-Visual, Source; Sanja Meegin)

"Hot Shots and Cool Clips Volume 2" DVD release brought forward: The next video documentary from JAT Productions is expected in late March 2007. Includes unreleased footage of ....Detroit '56, court room '56, first color footage of Graceland '57, introduced at Bobby Darin show 1960, Colonel Birthday Party '64 ( ?? ), Jaycees presentations with special tribute to the 10 best men of 1971, MSG Press conference behind the scenes and more 1972, MSG 1972 footage plus MORE to come... The release you have been waiting for !!! Retail $39.95. This DVD will be copy guarded and will be the copyright of many participating parties. (News, Source: JAT Productions/FECC)

Interactive Elvis Presley Museum going to London - The King's special come back: A private entity is in the process of developing a center in a landmark location in London, which will feature an interactive exhibition using the largest Elvis Memorabilia collection outside Graceland. The exhibition will also include never before seen photos from the early days of “Rock and Roll” together with very rare footage of Elvis’ family, entourage, the Memphis Mafia and Hollywood cast members. The exhibition is set to open by the 30th anniversary of Elvis’ death, in August of 2007. The museum dedicated to the life, loves and legacy of Elvis Presley, will present the collection of over 250 items of Elvis Presley memorabilia in a form allowing the visitor to experience the life of Elvis Presley from poverty to riches, world-wide fame, and to ultimate rock and roll stardom.

It will be fully developed into a complete entertainment complex including restaurants, shops and shows by 2008, way before the 2012 Olympics in London. The display, lay-out and designs are created by world class artists. Some of the profits generated from the project will be given to charity. Also a grand world tour of Elvis Memorabilia is starting in the near future. (News, Source: mmdnewswire.com)

"The Best of Elvis Presley" CD: This CD has been released in Vietnam by the label Discovery Records Vietnam and under licences by BMG International. The CD contains the usual hits ( 30 ) although there's a few odd titles for such compilation such as '' Santa Lucia '' and '' Angel ''. (News, Source : Barry McLean)

Sheila Ryan Caan claims Elvis doing cocaine: The first national interview with Sheila Ryan Caan-  on "The Insider TV show" in America was aired on Friday, December 8th, 2006  promoting her new "tell all book". She claimed that  "Elvis was doing Cocaine"  in his final years. (News, Source: EP Gold)

"Live A Little, Love A Little" DVD now available: Copies of the new Hollywood Classics DVD release "Live A Little, Love A Little" are now available. Contact Pavel Cernocky for information. (News, Source: Pavel Cernocky)

This week on the Elvis Hour: Nice to have you back as we once again share great memories about the King of Rock n' Roll Elvis Presley.This week we'll be playing it by the numbers, that is we'll have some fun with numbers that were important in the career of Elvis. Along the way we'll test your knowledge of Elvis trivia with a few numbers loyal Elvis fans would know. We'll also talk once again with Ben Weisman who in his career composed 57 songs for Elvis. I think you'll enjoy this very special edition of The Elvis Hour. Sunday evenings at 7:00PM (eastern) (and then repeated throughout the week) only at www.elvisthemagazine.com (News, Source: Darwin Lamm)

New CD from Voice: VOICE, Elvis’ own vocal group has re-united after a thirty year absence and recorded two new CD’s in memory of Elvis’.  The third CD is the CD that VOICE  recorded back in 1974,  entitled “Distilled Gospel” and it has been re-mastered and re-released by VOICE, Inc. as a collector’s edition. Special Offer: Spend CHRISTMAS with ELVIS’ Own Vocal Group VOICE. Only US$18.00 (song list:  The Most Wonderful Time of the Year,  Tennessee Christmas, No Room,  Oh Holy Night,   Do You Hear What I Hear,   Birthday of a King,  Christmas with You, Have a Country Christmas,  Beautiful Star of Bethlehem,  The Christmas Story (featuring J. D. Sumner), VOICE Holiday Greeting). (News, Source: Vocals and 88)

Kevan Budd interview, 'The Million Dollar Quartet' & more; The recent BMG 50th Anniversary release of the complete 'MDQ' was one of the Elvis highlights of 2006. Audio restorer and Elvis researcher Kevan Budd kindly agreed to answer EIN's questions about this new, improved, re-release - and he also revealed some details about the future 'SUN box-set'. (Interview, Source: EIN, December 2006)

EP In Concert "downunder" loses money??: Sid Shaw included this article in his latest informative Elvis Yours Cyberclub newsletter (EIN has asked the promoter for a comment on Sid's claim):

Although the fans loved “Elvis in Concert” on its recent tour Down Under it lost money for the promoters and is unlikely to tour again. It is a very expensive Concert because EPE are so greedy charging huge fees. Unless you can fill auditoriums it is very risky for promoters and ticket prices are too high. Rumour has it the TCB band may be replaced by younger musicians.

In fact, “Elvis in Concert” could go on forever replacing all the original musicians and backing singers but EPE would have to make it much more attractive for promoters and fans. If they want too much to book a Show and promoters have to charge too much for ticket prices there will be no more shows after Memphis in August 2007. There are many complaints from Elvis’ original entourage about the way they are treated by EPE and some will probably not be performing next year in August.

To add to this depressing news for Elvis fans it seems the “Mid-South Coliseum” where Elvis regularly performed may be closed down by the City of Memphis. It has had competition from the Pyramid and Fedex Forum in downtown Memphis and loses money. Just like previous Elvis landmarks such as American Sound Studio, the Tupelo Fairgrounds, Libertyland, RCA Studios in Nashville and the stadium for Elvis’ last concert in Indianapolis I can see more destruction of Elvis and American heritage. In Britain and many other countries such historic buildings are protected by law and cannot be destroyed. (News, Source: Sid Shaw)

Visit the Elvisly Yours website & buy some great Elvis merchandise

Charmaine's latest Elvis graphic: Just in time for Christmas, Charmaine Voisine has unveiled her latest, superb Elvis graphic. Click to view larger image and all other graphics by Charmaine.

KINGTRACKS discounted at Elvii Radio: Elvii Radio advises: Visit the Elvii Radio on-line store before MIDNIGHT Monday Night and take 15% off ALL KINGTRACKS in STOCK, including CDs and MP3 Files. This will be our FINAL KINGTRACK SPECIAL as we will be discontinuing the sale of Kingtracks at elvii.com at that time. (News, Source: Elvii Radio)

Elvis CD releases; final update for 2006: Elvis Presley released around 70 official albums in his lifetime. In 2006 an incredible twenty official Elvis CDs were issued and, including bootlegs, nearly SEVENTY CDs were released. So how many did you miss out on purchasing in 2006? Can a hard-core collector keep up? EIN has been keeping track. (EIN Reference, Source: EIN, Dec 2006)

Sheila Ryan on ET: Sheila Ryan Caan breaks her silence about her relationship with Elvis Presley in a new book. Her interview on Entertainment Tonight/The Insider airs Friday. Sheila Ryan Caan, the most silent of Elvis' lovers to date, has written a new book on her relationship with Elvis and the three years she was the constant companion of the "King." The first national interview with Sheila will air on Entertainment Tonight on Friday, December 8th. Check your local listings for exact time.

The book promises a whole new take on the public's general perception of Elvis and his so-called Memphis Mafia and personal details abound. The story begins when the 20 year-old runaway is plucked out of the Las Vegas concert audience by one of Elvis' minions and brought backstage. After a little innocent flirting Ryan went home, only to be summoned back to Elvis' presence as soon as she answered the phone. She never went back to her apartment again.

Sheila Ryan Caan was subsequently married to James Caan and is the mother of actor Scott Caan. (News, Source: Billboard)

Elvis Presley MP3 on CD Collection: You will find this item currently on ebay. The pr reads: It is a great Elvis Presley compilation included ALL Elvis Presley song’s!!! It is great – you pay only like one CD but you enjoy all Elvis Presley albums song’s in MP3 formatted (that CD be played in  all computers, all mp3 portable players and any DVD players). And just very rare released!!! Make your bids NOW! And enjoy the item! (News, Source: Amber Smith)

Elvis Embroidery Collection CD: One of the more unusual items about to be listed on ebay. A collection of Elvis embroidery designs on a CD. (Source: Amber Smith)

A treasure trove of guitars -- and Elvis' grass skirt: The Seminoles will get control of one the world's largest collections of rock 'n' roll memorabilia -- about 70,000 items from musical artists. The collection boasts guitars from the Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, Bo Diddley, Tom Petty, Pearl Jam, Bon Jovi and the Ramones. Clothing includes John Lennon's army jacket worn on the Imagine album and his "Live in NYC" glasses, Johnny Cash's boots, a vintage fabric tank top worn by Gwen Stefani, a black blazer worn by Bruce Springsteen, Jimi Hendrix's pants and Dolce & Gabbana rhinestone shoes worn by Madonna. Some obscure objects are Elvis Presley's grass skirt and lei from the movie Blue Hawaii and a kilt worn by Axl Rose of Guns N' Roses. Platinum and gold records, posters and album art are also displayed.

Hard Rock's collection is rotated throughout its numerous locations and is constantly expanding, said Deborah Sierchio of Coyne Public Relations, a spokeswoman for Hard Rock International.

Clapton donated the first piece of memorabilia to Hard Rock shortly after its London cafe opened. The cafe was one of Clapton's hangouts and he asked the staff whether he could hang his guitar -- a burgundy Fender Lead II -- to mark his favorite barstool. A week later, Pete Townshend of The Who sent a package to the cafe with a note, "Mine's as good as his! Love, Pete." (News, Source: SunSentinel.com)

"Christmas Wishes" release in Vietnam: Vietnam has released a very colorful edition of "Christmas Wishes". (News, Source: Worldwide Elvis)

View track listing and larger image of front and back covers

Photographer William Speers dies: Photographer William Speer, 89, died on Sunday December 4, 2006 in Memphis. He photographed Elvis Presley in 1954 and 1955 in his "Blue light" studio in the centre of Memphis. (Interview/News, Source: The United Elvis Presley Society /Elvis News)

Read interview and view larger image

Cover art for "Unchained Melody"?: Here apparently is the cover art for the Follow That Dream release "Unchained Melody" which is due for release January 2007. It contains a soundboard recording from an Elvis' concert in Charlotte, North Carolina on February 20, 1977.

For unknown reasons, the engineer never recorded the beginning of the shows on this tour, and consequently the CD starts with Love Me rather than Elvis's usual opening material for this tour.

Bonus songs from other concerts on the same tour are included.

"The Elvis I Remember" book release: Another book release, this time by Beth Williams. The pr for this book is interesting:

As a freelance entertainment reporter in Memphis I was one of the first asked to read “The Elvis I Remember”, before it was made public. By the 6th chapter I could tell the author poured her heart out in telling her story about Elvis. After reading the story I could not decide whether the story was true or not. So I went to those who knew Elvis best, his former associates and family members. When asked about the authenticity of what was written, most changed the subject the moment I mentioned the author’s name. Not because they thought it was just another book written by some obsessive fan, but because they were hiding something. If you want to know more about what has been written in this romantic insight to possibly one of Elvis’s greatest love affairs, then you are going to have to read it yourself. (News, Source: ElvisBookResearch)

New book released: "In The Kingdom of Elvis; The Elviite Chronicles" is a science fiction novel by Phil Emberton. Released in the US by Lulu.com last month, the 472 page book appears to be the full three volume trilogy of the author's work. In 2005 the first volume was published as "In The Kingdom of Elvis; In the City of the Prince with No Name" with the remaining two volumes announced for publication this year.

Both Amazon and Barnes & Noble have the book listed to buy online. (News, Source: ElvisBookResearch)