The latest on www.elvisinfonet.com:

EIN's Elvis Shop: Today we add to the site the start of our "Elvis Shop". Stage 1 of the shop covers FTD releases which we are offering at very competitive prices. Non FTD items will be added shortly. (News, Source: EIN)

Elvis on coast still a mystery: The "Elvis in Biloxi" jigsaw puzzle is coming together piece by piece, with a few pieces still missing. In Ernst Jorgensen's latest research trip through South Mississippi, he has picked up more pieces of the puzzle that illustrates Elvis Presley's early years. For 18 months before Elvis became a national star with "Heartbreak Hotel," the Mississippi native and his two bandsmen performed anywhere that would have them. He spent at least six days on the Coast, in concert at Keesler Air Force Base, Slavonian Lodge and Biloxi Community House. In the music world, Jorgensen is The Elvis Hunter, and his tenacity to compile the day-by-day accounts of Elvis' life has made him a foremost authority. He lives in Denmark and is researcher-producer for Elvis' record label RCA/FTD, now a subsidiary of Sony/BMG. (News, Source: Associated Press)

More Elvis vinyl releases: The two EPs "Love Me Tender" and "Good Rockin’ Tonight" have been re-released in the UK. The cover and labels are the same as the original releases and the vinyl is multicoloured. (News, Source: Elvis Unlimited)

Sonny West book update: According to Bill E. Burk, the manuscript for Sonny West's new book has so far been turned down by three publishers. Each publisher has said "there is no longer a market for Elvis books". Bill notes that while unit sales for new Elvis books have slumped, there are still many new Elvis titles being published. EIN adds that there has been a significant move away from mainstream published Elvis titles to boutique (smaller publishers) and self-published releases. (News, Source: Bill E. Burk)

Suspicious minds wonder if man is really son of Elvis: There was a confirmed Elvis sighting Friday in Portland - well, sort of, maybe. Elvis Presley Jr. stopped by to promote his two concerts held in St. Marys, Ohio this weekend and to once again lay claim to what he considers his rightful birthright as the illegitimate son of Elvis Sr. Wherever Junior goes he lugs along a binder full of copies of letters, notes and clippings that refer to him as the son of Elvis. He has a copy of Elvis's will with highlighted sections that could be referring to more than one child. His birth mother, he said, is Angelique Delores Pettyjohn, a walk-on in the Elvis Sr. move "Blue Hawaii" who later played in "Clambake" and had roles on several TV shows. He was born on Dec. 24, 1961, in a Gary, Ind., hospital. (News/Odd Spot, Source: TheStarPress.com)

Jailhouse Rock London Staging to Close — The Musical Eyes Broadway: Jailhouse Rock might actually soon rock to the “Jailhouse Rock.” The London musical version of the famous Elvis Presley movie has so far been unable to use any of the film’s classic Lieber and Stoller songs (it uses generic songs of the period instead). However, its forthcoming American production has, after more than a year of haggling, been granted the rights. The news comes at a welcome time for the show. The London staging is due to close at the Piccadilly Theatre on April 23 to make way for the Ewan McGregor-starring production of Guys and Dolls. There had been speculation that Jailhouse Rock might simply theatre hop. However, the producer Alan Janes and director Rob Bettinson have decided to close the show in the U.K. to concentrate on developing the new version for the U.S. (where Rene Sheridan will co-produce). It is hoped that the U.S. version, if successful, will spawn a U.K. tour in 2006. After that, a West End return is the aim. Janes said in a statement, “It is sad to be coming to the end of the London run, but what we do have to look forward to is coming back to London with a completely new version of the show — and the song that has until now eluded us!” (News, Source: Playbill)

Huge Elvis collection for sale: If you've got a cool $800,000.00, then all we can say is check this eBay listing: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=2012&item=3880479011&rd=1 (News, Source: Sanja Meegin)

From Memphis To Denmark: From 2 to 12 April Elvis Unlimited is presenting a a series of shows built up around the many legendary recordings that Elvis did with the fantastic American Sound Studio band back in 1969. Elvis and the guys recorded hits like In The Ghetto, Suspicious Minds, Kentucky Rain, Don’t Cry Daddy, Rubberneckin’ and many others together. This is the first time ever that the American Sound Studio band will play an Elvis show in Scandinavia. The backup singers will be the fantastic Sweet Inspirations. Those wonderful soul ladies are still fantastic singers. The singers/performers on the From Memphis To Denmark show are aline up of great Danish artists like Stig Rossen (Not in Copenhagen), Steen Jørgensen and Bobo Moreno and from Norway is the great Stephen Ackles. (News, Source: Elvis Unlimited)

"Elvis By The Presleys" DVD: The street date in Canada for the soundtrack CD '' Elvis By The Presleys '' is May 3rd, 2005 while the DVD is scheduled for May 17th, 2005. (News, Source: For Elvis CD Collectors Only/BMG Canada)

"First, Second And Forever" DVD: Released in the underground import circuit is a new DVD entitled "First, Second And Forever". It contains "expertly produced" videos to the 50 tracks found on Elvis' releases 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits" and "Elvis 2nd To None". (News, Source: Source: Essential Elvis/ElvisNews.com)

"Return of The Blue Moon Boys" documentary: Susan Graham (200 Cadillacs) is now working on a new documentary about Scotty Moore, D.J. Fontana and the late Bill Black. Susan hopes to have it ready by August. (News, Source: Bill E. Burk)

Billboard Chart update: March 19, 2005 (sg - sales gainer, gg - greatest sales gainer, ne - new entry, re - re-entry) Top Christian Albums - Ultimate Gospel down 2 to #33; Top Country Albums - Ultimate Gospel stays at #54 (sg); Top Pop Catalog Albums - Elvis 30 #1's down 5 to #32; Top Country Catalog Albums - Elvis 30 #1's stays at #3. (News, Source: ElvisCharts.com)

"Good Luck Charm" debuts at #2: Elvis' latest single gave him another #2 on the UK Singles chart. At #1 was the charity single by McFly, All About You/You've Got A Friend. Rock A Hula Baby dropped 23 places to #26. (News, Source: BBC)

Book review - "Elvis Presley's 78's around the world": Andre Helling has done a masterful job of putting together information on more than 900 releases from countries as diverse as Columbia, Mexico, Britain, Japan, Uruguay, Pakistan, the Philippines, the US and New Zealand. (News, Source: EIN)

Pre-orders open for new Lisa Presley album "Now What": Orders are now being taken for Lisa's new album. You can pre-order the album or an album and t-shirt package. (News, Source: Official Lisa Presley site)

Ed Hill of The Stamps Quartet recovering from stroke: Ed Hill, baritone singer for J.D. Sumner And The Stamps Quartet during their years with Elvis and beyond, and a member of today's Stamps Quartet, suffered a stroke last week. Ed is out of the hospital and recuperating at home. If you would like to send him your good wishes, here's the address: Ed Hill P.O. BOX 1471 Brentwood, TN 37024. Ed was scheduled to be with The Stamps on the April/May 2005 tour of Elvis-The Concert. (News, Source: EPE)

"Elvis Today" album revisited: Our recent posting about the July 2005 release of the updated classic album, "Elvis Today" caused a lot of interest. Ernst Jorgensen recently confirmed with EIN that CD2 will feature the Felton Jarvis produced, original Rick Ruggieri "RCA rough-mix". In this interesting article EIN’s Piers Beagley delves a little deeper into ‘Today’ to find out why it was Elvis’ final great LP and highlights some great new cover artwork from Spinout Designs. (Review, Source: EIN)

No "Aloha From Hawaii" CD reissue!: Contrary to our report yesterday Elvis News has found out from EPE that there was an error on the BMG Elvis release schedule. (News, Source: ElvisNews.com)

"Elvis The Concert" Rotterdam ticket sales controversy: Is it sold out or not? Rogier van Luyken from It's Elvis Time and a consultant to BMG Holland has told us reports of a sell-out are false (see 10 March 2005). So if you want to see Elvis on the big screen and his band and back-up singers in person, pick up the telephone and help make the concert register "Sold Out". (News, Source: Rogier van Luyken)

Elvis ready to rock: Elvis is returning to the building. World champion Elvis tribute artist Roy LeBlanc is to entertain on Sunday, April 3, at the 2005 St. Thomas Home, Garden and Outdoor Living Show. LeBlanc, a St. Thomas resident who won his title in 2003 in Las Vegas, is a home show favourite. And though his popular act last year took him as far away as Europe, LeBlanc says hometown audiences are a favourite of his, as well. That’s why he continues to return each year to the Iron Horse Festival stage, for example. “I enjoy it. These are people who came to see me when I didn’t have a band and I was just singing in a Legion.” He’s on stage at 1 p.m. LeBlanc hopes to make a return visit this year to Europe. And he’s in talks to take his act on the road to China, where Elvis acts can command ticket prices which equal as much as two weeks’ pay. LeBlanc also is setting up a Tour of Champions to showcase Elvis artists who have won titles at the annual Elvis festival in Collingwood, Ont. LeBlanc was named best professional Elvis in 2001 at the festival, which attracts an international roster of competitors. (News/Almost Elvis, Source: St. Thomas Times Journal)

"Aloha From Hawaii" CD re-issue next month: New EPE catalog lists a re-issue of Aloha From Hawaii (CD) for release in April. No other details at this time. (News, Source: For Elvis CD COllectors Only messageboard)

Elvis hangs with Miss Mary at Crossroads: Crossroads Hospice patient Miss Mary and Elvis are quite a team. Miss Mary invited Elvis to move into her room at Cordova Health and Rehab where he keeps her company each day. Advertisement Our volunteer with Crossroads (originally from France) discovered Miss Mary's love for Elvis through music therapy at Cordova Health and Rehabilitation. During visits Miss Mary would laugh, sing and dance with Elvis as his tunes filled her room. Miss Mary and Elvis participated in Crossroads's "The Ultimate Gift." Patients with a terminal diagnosis are treated to a special day where one of their most "eternal" wishes is fulfilled. Families and staff participate together to make this "the best day ever." (News, Source: The Commercial Appeal)

Elvis comeback special: It was definitely a case of "Elvis has left the building" when a statue of the King went walkabout. The life-size model, normally seen on the balcony above the Baroque bar in Streatham High Road, rocked up with six mates in a nearby fast-food restaurant. Student Hani Yusuf, 23, who can normally see the statue from her living-room window, had gone into Dallas Chicken & Ribs at 5am on Sunday last week when she saw the familiar figure surrounded by his burger-munching abductors. She said: "I said to them, 'What are you doing with Elvis? That's our neighbour'. "They said, 'Well he's ours now', then picked him up and took him out." Baroque manager Nick Christodoulou, 27, got a call from his neighbour saying Elvis was being abducted. But he soon realised it was just a prank by a mate who had been drinking in the bar that night. The King has since been returned home. Nick said: "I might have to stick a homing device on him." (News/Odd Spot, Source: Streatham Post)

Elvis on "Dead Famous": Elvis features on the final episode of the current series of the TV program Dead Famous next Tuesday, 15 March in the UK. (News, Source: For Elvis CD Collectors Only Messageboard)

Elvis werewolf: What do you get when you mix Elvis with a werewolf? "Blue Suede Paws," a musical, will be performed by fifth- through eighth-grade students from Monroe Grade School at 7 p.m. March 17 in the school gym. The play is a 1950s rockin' horror show, complete with a mad scientist, a cool high school football player, a nerdy student, an uptight football coach, and of course, that wild werewolf. Monroe Grade School puts on a play every year, and this year, 30 students are participating. "We did a musical this year because we've got a lot of kids with good voices," said teacher Lory Bechtold. "It's a really fun play. It ought to be a great production." The event is free, though donations will accepted. (News, Source: gazettetimes.com, USA)

Believe it or not!: The items listed on eBay just get more ridiculous. Wade Jones, aka "Elvis Cup guy" is now selling the braces he was wearing on his teeth, the night he obtained the famous Elvis Cup..ebay auction#3879857032. (News/Odd Spot, Source: Wade Jones)

"Raised On Rock" (2CD) to be 1 October FTD release: Ernst Jorgensen has told Andylon Lensen that Raised On Rock is planned for release by FTD on 1 October. Ernst also advised Andylon that the following other Elvis albums would receive similar double CD treatment and release by FTD in the future: Elvis - Fool; Promised Land, From Elvis Presley Boulevard, Good Times. (News, Source: EPGold.com)

Poor taste item on eBay?: BargainBox4u in the UK has listed an actual size replica of Elvis' gravestone. The pr reads: "Commisioned actual size Elvis presley bronze finish gravestone, this item will take me two weeks to complete, and then the finished product can be set into your garden or a place of your choice. The product will be very heavy, around 80 pounds. All proceeds from sales of my artwork is going towards creating an Elvis Presley Hotel and restauraunt here in the Lake District. All Elvis fans will benefit." The url is: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=433&item=3879504709&rd=1 (News, Source: eBay)

Elvis The Concert in Rotterdam SOLD-OUT: The Elvis the Concert show on Wednesday 27 April 2005 at the Ahoy Sports-Arena in Rotterdam, Netherlands is officially "sold out". (News, Source: Macuser, For Elvis CD Collectors Only messageboard)

"Aloha" and "68 Comeback" single disc re-release: Both the the "Aloha From Hawaii" and the "'68 Comeback Special" DVDs will be re-released worldwide as single disc versions by Sony BMG later this year. In Australia Sony BMG will also release "Elvis By The Presley's" on DVD and CD. It will be interesting to see how well both Aloha and the Comeback Special sell as cheaper single discs. (News, Source: Elvis Australia)

New book - "Conversations with Elvis": Suzanne Leigh (Paradise, Hawaiian Style) is busy working on a new book, tentatively called Conversations With Elvis. It will be a collection of stories from celebrities about their interaction with Elvis. (News, Source: Bill E. Burk)

Lisa Presley "Now What" dates: Dates for April and May, 2005 has been verified for Lisa's upcoming 'Now What' Tour. New dates and venues will be added to the list as they are verified. (News, Source: Official Lisa Presley site)

Look-alike treat for Elvis fans: British Club members and guests have something to look forward to next week. An evening featuring comedy and Elvis is being held at the club's Windsor Room. Elvis fans are in for a treat as a look-alike, Elvis Brettini, aka Damian Brett, will be performing at the event. Damian was enticed from a career as a successful tri-lingual sales professional to become a tribute to the King of Rock and Roll. His professionally trained vocal skills developed during his early years singing in his school choir and have allowed him to sing just like Elvis. "People know what they want from an act like mine," said Damian. "They know the difference between a good Elvis and a bad Elvis. Damian has performed all over Europe and the US, including appearances at the Stardust in Las Vegas, as well as the International Elvis Convention in Nashville, Tennessee. (News/Almost Elvis, Source: Gulf Daily News)

Rare (alleged) Elvis reel to reel (circa 1955) for sale: Another intriguing, if suspect item, has been listed on eBay. From the pr blurb: "You are bidding on a very rare LIVE reel to reel taped recording on Elvis Presley rehearsing for a 1955 Detroit Michigan concert when he was 21 years old. This is the only known copy to exist. The rehearsal and interview was taped by talent agent Charlie Ray (Ambassador Charlie Ray’s International talent group) in Nashville, TN. Carl Perkins is Elvis’ lead guitarist on the tape." The tracks are One Night of Sin, When It Rains It Really Pours, Mona Lisa, Swing Down Sweet Chariot and Plantation Rock. A number of issues: Elvis' first concert in Detroit was on 25 May 1956 (not 1955) and some sources suggest that Plantation Rock (discarded from the film Girls! Girls! Girls!), written by Giant, Baum & Kaye, was not penned until the 1960s. The eBay url is: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=2012&item=3878862732&rd=1 (News, Source: eBay)

Elvis The Man and his Music: If you are interested in investigating the more serious side of Elvis, then this quarterly magazine, 'The Man & His Music' is one of the very best. EIN looks inside the latest issue. (Review, Source: EIN)

Elvis Rocks the Wine Charts: Signature Wines "Graceland Cellars" range of Elvis are the hottest small brand of the Year. Wine Business Monthly Magazine Honors Graceland Cellars (News, Source: EPE)

Lisa Marie Presley to appear in Canada: Lisa Presley is coming to Casino Rama in Canada on May 12. Tickets go on sale on Tuesday March 8th at 12 noon. Please note: You must be 19 years of age or older with valid government issued photo ID in order to attend concerts & events at Casino Rama. Tickets: http://www.ticketmaster.ca/ (News, Source: Collingwood Elvis fan club)

"The Headhunter" - literary agent found: An agent has been found to represent The Headhunter book! David Stanley interviewed several agents and is waiting on an agreement letter from the successful person. (News, Source: David E. Stanley)

David Stanley Teleseminar: On March 14 David Stanley will be conducting a Teleseminar to discuss the current success of The HeadHunter. To get more information or sign-up to listen, visit http://www.mentorsmagazine.com/Public/TELESEMINARS/ (there is no charge). (News, Source: David E. Stanley)

Bubba Ho-Tep 2 update: The second Bubba Ho-Tep film is tentatively called Nosferatu: Curse of the She-Vampires. Set in the late 1960s, soon after Elvis Presley starred in Clambake, this movie will present the comedy/horror adventures of the King of Rock and Roll when he was in his early 30s (rather than the senior citizen version that starred in Bubba Ho-Tep). Looking to get away from movie sets, Elvis heads down to New Orleans looking for a good time, and encounters usage of black magic, voodoo and (presuming from the title)... she-vampires. The producers have also revealed plans for a third Bubba Ho-Tep film and that it may be called Bubba Sasquatch and depict Elvis Presley adventures in the north woods, helping someone fight off a pack of bloodthirsty Bigfoots. (News, Source: For Elvis CD Collectors Only messageboard)

"Inside Graceland" new book: A new book entitled "Inside Graceland: Elvis' Maid Remembers" is due for release soon. The book is written by Nancy Rooks and Jim Cox. The book tells the story of what it was like to work for Elvis, and to be at Graceland from 1967 through 1977 and beyond. (News, Source: ElvisNews.com)

Kevan Budd Returns To BMG/FTD: Kevan Budd, known for his remastering of "Elvis At SUN", "Elvis", "Elvis Presley" and "Loving You" confirmed to Elvis News that he has decided to continue working for Sony BMG and the FTD label. He will also be working on the upcoming SUN book & CD set. (News, Source: ElvisNews.com)

Rare Elvis photos for sale: From 1970 to 1977, Elvis traveled the United States, performing in city after city, night after night. More than 50 concerts were photographed up-close and in great quality by George O. Hill. Many photos that are available have NEVER been released... until now! Each photo is developed from Mr Hill's original 35mm slides and negatives. (News, Source: Sanja Meegin)

"From The Archives" CD releases: Set for release soon are two new import releases "From The Archives" volumes 1 and 2 on the Golden Archives label. (News, Source: ElvisNews.com)

Lisa Marie's Upcoming U.S. TV Appearances: Here are some upcoming U.S. TV appearances for Lisa Marie Presley in conjunction with the April 5th release of her second CD Now What. Visit www.lisapresley.com for more information. March 28 - Oprah; March 29 - Good Morning America; March 29 - Larry King Live; April 1 - Late Show with David Letterman; April 5 - Ellen. (News, Source: EPE)

"Burbank 68" revisited: FTD's debut album was a stunner! Read EIN's review of this historic release. (FTD review, Source: EIN)

WNYC Radio's "Soundcheck" To Do Hour of Elvis on March 24: BMG has informed EPE that their recent publicity regarding plans for Elvis in 2005 has inspired radio station WNYC to devote an entire one-hour episode of its Soundcheck program to Elvis Presley. Soundcheck is a US based music talk show which airs daily 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM (Eastern). Music host John Schaefer showcases the finest composers and performers with a program focused squarely on New York's vibrant cultural scene. WNYC is New York's NPR (National Public Radio) station. The Elvis edition of Soundcheck airs at 2:00 PM Eastern on Thursday, March 24th. Tune in on radio if you receive WNYC programming in your area or listen online at http://www.wnyc.com/shows/soundcheck (News, Source: EPE)

"Elvis And Friends" Unplugged CD: A new release from the Golden Archives (003) is the CD "Elvis And Friends Unplugged". It contains a selection of informal recordings from various previously released CDs like "In A Private Moment" (BMG), "The Colonels Collection" (MAC Records) and "Candid Elvis On Camera" (Captain Marvel JR. Records). Track listing: Spanish Eyes - Baby, What You Want Me To Do - I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry - See See Rider - That’s All Right - You’re Life Has Just Begun - Teardrops - Poem by Elvis - I Got A Woman - Blue Moon/Young Love / Happy Day (excerpt) - Guitar Boogie (instrumental)/When It Rains It Really Pours - Blue Christmas - Are You Lonesome Tonight/That’s My Desire (one line only) - That’s When You’re Heartaches Begin/Baby What’s Wrong - Peter Gun Theme (instrumental) - Love Me - When My Blue Moon Turns To Gold Again - Blue Christmas - Santa Claus Is Back In Town - Just A Closer Walk With Thee - I’m Beginning To Forget You - Mona Lisa - Send Me Some Lovin’ - Spanish Eyes (duet with Sherrill Nielsen) - Lighthouse - Lighthouse/I John/I Need Your Lovin’ - It’s My Time To Praise The Lord - Time Has Made A Change In Me/I Should Have Been Crucified. (News, Source: Elvis Club Berlin/ElvisNews.com)

Dottie West: In response to a photo EIN published in EIN E-Alert #161 featuring Elvis with country singer, Dottie West, Elvis World's "007" sent us this sad story concerning Dottie. (Bill Burk's Elvis World Online, Source: Bill E. Burk, 4 March 2005)

Elvis medication bottle for sale: Sheila Ryan, former girlfriend of Elvis Presley and wife of James Caan is selling a prescription bottle of medication on the auction site, ebay. The bottle of DAPRISAL was prescribed by Dr George Nichopoulos and dated May 17th 1975. The bottle of pills was given to Sheila by Elvis in Graceland to hold for him. Ryan is also writing a book entitled Fame on me which will include many stories of her time with Elvis. Url link is: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=22665&item=3962039108&rd=1 (News, Source: eBay)

UK Single Sales Figures: With first week sales of 27,600, Rock-A-Hula Baby scored the third best tally yet among Elvis Presley's 70th birthday re-issues but still has to settle for a number three debut. This week's sales: 1. Stereophonics 40,378; 2. Nelly 33,778; 3. Elvis 27,600; 4. Cabin Crew 24,878; 5. Britney 17,486. The other singles in order of release, and their first week sales: Jailhouse Rock 21,262; One Night 20,463; A Fool Such As I 20,002; It's Now Or Never 21,887; Are You Lonesome Tonight 28,500; Wooden Heart 28,377; Surrender 24,439; (Marie's The Name) His Latest Flame 27,441. So far, Elvis has had three number ones, four number two's and two number three hits in 2005. (News, Source: ElvisNews.com)

Elvis makes 2004 top selling music DVDs in Australia: The top 100 selling music DVDs in Australia for 2004 have been announced. Elvis ranks at #28 with Elvis: Aloha From Hawai Deluxe Edition and #29 with the '68 Comeback Special Deluxe Edition. (News, Source: Region 4 DVD)

Rarest Elvis books: ElvisBookResearch has released its latest list of the rarest (hardest to obtain) Elvis books (excluding photobooks). They are: Elvis The Sun Years The Story of Elvis Presley in the Fifties (Howard A. DeWitt); Return To Sender The First Complete Discography of Elvis Tribute & Novelty Records 1956-1986 (Howard Banney); The Sounding Story (Peter DeVecchi); A Century of Elvis (Albert Hand); Elvis From Memphis to Hollywood Memories of My Twelve Years with Elvis Presley (Alan Fortas). (News, Source: ElvisBookResearch)

UK Elvis collectors fair: The next all Elvis collectors fair will take place at The Rayners Hotel, Rayners Lane, Harrow (2 mins from Rayners Lane tube) on Saturday 12 March from noon. It will be the best line up of Elvis dealers yet at this one, including "ELVIS UNLIMITED" (from Denmark), "ELVIS COUNTRY" (from Ireland), "WINDMILL RECORDS", ELVIS MEMORIES", "INDIANA FASHIONS" (specialising in Elvis bags, wallets and leather goods), plus several other dealers. Items will include vintage (and recent!) vinyl, DVD's /videos, CD's, FTD releases, imports, sheet music, books, magazines, Vegas and movie memorabilia etc. For any further info, email: TONY.GRACELAND@TALK21.COM (News, Source: FECC messageboard)

"Mystery Train" DVD set for Australian release: Jim Jarmusch's critically acclaimed 1989 film, Mystery Train, is set for DVD release in Australia shortly. Revolving around three Elvis inspired vignettes this quirky film may not be to everyone's taste but it has some darkly funny moments. (News, Source: Region 4 DVD)

Another Top 5 hit for Elvis: Rock A Hula Baby debuted at #3 on the latest UK singles chart. At #2 was Over and Over (Nelly with Tim McGraw) and at #1 was Dakota (The Stereophonics). His Latest Flame dropped to #33, while Surrender is at #34 in the Top 40. (News, Source: BBC)

New Joe Tunzi book & DVD: J.A.T. Publishing will be releasing (late Spring Northern Hemisphere) Elvis: The Documentaries, a 125-page photo journal examining Elvis' two acclaimed documentaries, That's The Way It Is, and Golden Globe winner Elvis On Tour. It may also include a CD. Joseph Tunzi has also announced that the DVD "Hot Shots And Cool Clips - Volume 2" is almost finished. JAT just have to get all the clearances for the footage...the release date will be determined in the next few months. (News, Source: For Elvis CD Collectors Only)

Elvis left the building, but you can sleep in his bedroom: Apartment 328 in the Lauderdale Courts, where Elvis and his family lived in 1949 is now available on a two to six night booking. Bob Dylan intends visiting and the nightly tariff is, not surprisingly, quite a bit more than the US$35.00 per month the Presleys paid. (News, Source: Chicago Sun Times)

Very Rare "Elvis At Sun" Radio Broadcast Promo CD: Recently discovered is this special edition Elvis At Sun Promo CD made specially for Radio Stations in Indonesia. Almost impossible to find. A real collectors' treasure. (News, Source: HT Long/For Elvis CD Collectors Only)

New Memory Records CD - "I Did It My Way": Memory Records (Czech fan club) is releasing (what appears to be an audience recording of) Elvis' 28 April 1977 show in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (News, Source: Elvis Presley Fan Club Czechoslovakia/For Elvis CD Collectors Only)

"Elvis" monitors Michael Jackson trial: Dressed as Elvis, part-time foothill resident Matthew Tuttle held a sign reading "Jailhouse Rock Michael" as he stood outside the courthouse in Santa Maria on the opening day of Michael Jackson's child molestation trial. And that's not all...(News/Odd Spot, Source: UnionDemocrat.com)

Magic Elvis: "Holidaying in Los Angeles in 1958, I was privileged to join a vast audience who witnessed a young Elvis Presley give the performance of a lifetime. He was superb. His emotional impact was so overpowering that many members of the audience became hysterical. The reaction was due purely to Elvis's unique vocal talent and outstanding charisma, because his backing musicians didn't enhance his performance in any way. Scotty Moore on guitar provided a rather nondescript rockabilly-influenced style of accompaniment and Bill Black on stand-up 'slap' bass sounded out of tune. Despite this poor accompaniment and a level of amplification that, by today's standards, was almost non-existent, Elvis drove his fans wild and confirmed his status as a true icon of popular culture. His continuing popularity and legendary status is due, in part, to the fact that he possessed a repertoire of truly phenomenal proportions and, throughout his illustrious career, he regularly demonstrated an insouciant mastery of many musical styles. Most people seem to recall Elvis from the time when he was a bloated, tragic parody of his former self, but I remember him when he was at his peak - a vivid memory that will remain with me until the day I die." (News/Recollection, Source: email/Geoffrey Lindley, UK)

UK free CD: The Daily Express gave away a free CD including the studio version of That's All Right (Mama). (News, Source: For Elvis CD Collectors Only)

New Memory Records CD - "Let Me Be There": Memory Records (Czech fan club) is releasing (what appears to be an audience recording of) Elvis' 8 February 1974 (midnight) Vegas show. (News, Source: Elvis Presley Fan Club Czechoslovakia/For Elvis CD Collectors Only)

Rare Elvis audio online: If you haven't had a listen to Keith Flynn's excellent rare Elvis audio site we recommend you do. Among the great material you'll hear is Mean Woman Blues (acetate); I'm Yours (stereo); Stay Away (slow version take 2); Fame and Fortune (comlpete take 2) and 500 miles (home recording). (News, Source: Keith Flynn site)

Wisner searches for a few good Elvises: All eyes — smiling, Irish or otherwise — may take a second glance when Wisner city stages its St. Patrick's Day celebration March 19. That's when the first — and perhaps last — Elvis Lookalike Contest gets under way. (News, Source: Fremont Tribune)

New import CD: The Elvis Express mentions a possible import release by a new import label with a newly remastered version of Elvis' concert performance of his March 22nd 1975 midnight show at the Hilton Hotel in Las Vegas. This concert was first issued on the import release, "A Profile: The King On Stage Vol. 2" but the producers of this upcoming release say that the remastering they have done has given a new and improved sound. Track listing: Also Sprach Zarathustra/See See Rider/I Got A Woman - Amen/Love Me/If You Love Me/And I Love You So/Big Boss Man/It's Midnight/Promised Land/Green Green Grass Of Home/Fairytale/(band introductions)/My Boy/I'll Remember You/Teddy Bear/Don't Be Cruel/Hound Dog/You're The Reason I'm Living/Can't Help Falling In Love. (News, Source: The Elvis Express/ElvisNews.com)

"Let's Be Friends" reissued: According to an update on the Elvis Matters website a Polish reprint of the original and well known album from 1970, “Let’s Be Friends” (as originally released on the budget Camden label) has been released in the import circuit. Track listing: Stay Away Joe/If I’m A Fool/Let’s Be Friends/ Let’s Forget About The Stars/Mama/I’ll Be There/Almost/Change Of Habit/Have A Happy. (News, Source: Elvis Matters/ElvisNews.com)

Chart update: Billboard USA, March 12, 2005 - Top Christian Albums: Ultimate Gospel down 2 to #31; Top Country Albums: Ultimate Gospel stays at #54; Top Pop Catalog Albums: Elvis 30 #1's stays at #27; Top Country Catalog Albums: Elvis 30 #1's stays at #3. Love, Elvis dropped out of the Billboard 200 (Album Chart) this week. (News, Source: Elvischarts.com)

New exhibit at Graceland: Visitors to Graceland this year will be treated to an extraordinary new exhibit about Elvis's life in Memphis, featuring several mural-size Don Newman photographs taken in the late 30's, 40's, 50's and displayed with Elvis artifacts from the Graceland Archives. (News, Source: EPE)

UK fans - win tickets to Elvis The Concert: UK fans can win VIP tickets to see Elvis The Concert at Sheffield’s Hallam FM Arena on Saturday, April 30. (News, Source: Sheffield News)

"Diamond" Joe Esposito touring: Elvis' Best Friend Joe Esposito & Singer John Krondes are hitting the road to New Mexico. (News, Source: Funky Sound of America)

Elvis related film attracting high interest on eBay: Eat The Peach, a little known 1986 film continues to attract fierce bidding on eBay. The Irish comedy tells the story of two young men who after watching Elvis in Roustabout decide to build their own "wall of death". In the past fortnight three second-hand copies of the long deleted VHS video have sold for an average of US$31.50. (News, Source: eBay)

EPE stocks go on sale: Robert Sillerman is pictured at the Nasdaq National Market System yesterday when 34% of the stocks in his company CKX Sports Entertainment Enterprises were put up for sale. CKX Sports Entertainment Enterprises owns EPE and the right to run Graceland as a museum. Robert Sillerman owns 51% of the stocks and Lisa Marie Presley owns 15%. If you are interested in buying stocks then visit Nasdaq National Market System and search for CKXE. (Sale of EPE/News, Source: EPE)

Elvis tribute song for Dundee debut: A moving song, written by a late Dundee musician in honour of his hero Elvis Presley, will be performed in the city for the first time later this month. Why Can’t They Leave Him Alone? was penned by former Dundee entertainer George Christie in 1987 to express his disgust at people profiting from the death of the King by selling stories and scandalising his memory. The song was adopted as the anthem of the official Elvis Presley Fan Club of Great Britain, who empathised with the feelings in the song. It also struck a chord with Elvis impersonator Richard Atkins, who started performing it live on tour with Rockin’ on Heavens Door. The tour comes to the Whitehall Theatre on March 25 and will be the first time George’s song has been performed in his home town. His friend Alec Brown, a piano tuner with the BBC in London, who tuned the piano for Elton John to perform at Princess Diana’s funeral, said, “It’s a powerfully emotional song at the best of times and I heard it the first time it was sung live and could hardly speak afterwards.” George, who died two years ago, was a well-known entertainer in Dundee venues throughout the 50s, 60s and 70s. (News, Source: Evening Telegraph & Post)

New Elvis Behind The Image DVD: Released on the underground import circuit is a factory made DVD "Behind The Image" containing newly discovered homemovies, interviews and live performances. It appears to be a "rip-off" of the Praytome release of the same name. (News, Source: ElvisNews.com)

'Elvis' tribute this weekend for boy with cancer: A "Tribute to Elvis" show will be held Saturday, March 5, to raise funds for Justin Robinson, who will celebrate his second birthday March 1. Little Justin has been diagnosed with cancer on his lungs that has wrapped around his rib cage and has been undergoing chemotherapy treatments. His parents are Jeff, a Murfreesboro firefighter, and Jennifer Robinson. The benefit show will be performed at Coffee County Central High School beginning at 7 p.m. Justin lives in Murfreesboro, but his aunt and uncle, Shelley and Jerry Dunn, live in Hillsboro and are organizing this event for their nephew. Tickets for ages 6 to 12 are $3; for anyone 12 and older tickets will be $5. For more information, call the Dunns at 596-4231 or 247-9068. A trust fund for the child, under the name of Mark Justin Robinson, has been set up in Murfreesboro at the First Tennessee Bank at 1749 S. Rutherford Blvd., 37130. Justin had surgery Feb 15 and is awaiting the results. However, he is in good spirits, Dunn said. Dunn will be impersonating Elvis, backed up by several bands. Band members are Trey, Chris and Bobby Robinson, Travis and Stephen Clower, Richard Emslie Tyler Sherrill and back-up singers Cortney and Ashley. Tickets will be sold at the door the night of the show. (News, Source: The Tullahoma News)

DVD releases in Greece: The remastered DVD sets "Aloha From Hawaii" and the "'68 Comeback Special" have finally been released in Greece. Both entered the Music DVD Top 20: "Aloha" at #13; "Comeback" at #15. (News, Source: ElvisNews.com)

Elvis film update: Photos from the upcoming movie, The King, The Killer & Buddy can now be found at:http://ladyluckmusic.com/radio/hunter/dean-z/. (News, Source: Dean Z site)

New Soundboard CD "Keep The Fire Burning": The Audionics label, which released "El Goes El Paso" last January, will release another soundboard CD, titled "Keep The Fire Burning". This release will contain a previously unreleased soundboard recording of Elvis' tour closing show in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, on May 7th, 1975. (News, Source: For Elvis CD Collectors Only)

'Trying To Get To You' was George Harrison's Favourite Song: George Harrison's favorite song was Elvis' 'Trying To Get To You'. Harrison's widow, Olivia said this in an interview with Ross Stevenson and John Burns on Melbourne radio station 3AW this morning. (News, Source: 3AW/Olivia Harrison/Elvis Australia)

Elvis song made Academy Award Top 10 list: Songwriter, Ben Weisman tells how one Elvis song made the initial shortlist for nomination for an Oscar: "Well, Elvis and I took a picture together, because we wrote a song called "I'll Be Back," which was voted as the top ten in the motion picture category (Best Song in a Movie category). The first time a rock and roll picture was up for a possible Oscar. So It was done as a promo, where we stood there. And we got pretty close. We were voted to top ten. Didn't quite make the five. But there's one song that that Elvis got in the top ten in the motion picture academy. So we posed. That was the picture we posed for. Promo." (News, Source: Elvis World Japan)

New "Elvis, Lennon & JFK" play to tour UK: A national tour of the new play Elvis, Lennon & JFK is happening March - May around the UK. By all accounts it's a great show and there is already interest in it from Canada and the London West End. Web link: www.elvislennonjfk.com (News, Source: Giles C email)

Tarantino to direct Lisa Presley: The director Quentin Tarantino, known for the movies "Pulp Fiction", "Kill Bill" and "True Romance", all filled with various Elvis references, will direct Lisa Marie Presley's video for the single "Dirty Laundry". (News/Lisa Presley's World, Source: Lisa Presley (German)/ElvisNews.com)

Elvis 78's around the world: We recently discovered this great site which will appeal to vinyl collectors. We recommend you take time to browse the site and also check out Andre Helling's book on Elvis 78's. We'll have a review of Andre's book soon. (News, Source: EIN)

More on Elvis' coffin pillow: Southpaw posted the following message on the For Elvis CD Collectors Only messageboard: According to Joe E. the only thing removed from the casket was the TCB ring that he took off for Vernon and handed it to Vernon before the casket was closed. Also Larry Geller just sent this to verify his view of the events. "There is a lot of so-called Elvis memorabilia that suddenly pops up for sale. Here we go again! I was standing there when Joe took the TCB ring off Elvis' finger and gave it to Vernon. Nothing else was removed before the casket lid was closed. It's as simple as that. Larry." (News, Source: For Elvis CD Collectors Only)

New photos from Elvis miniseries: IGN FilmForce has landed yet another King-sized exclusive on the upcoming CBS miniseries, Elvis. They have scored six new photos of the cast and crew, including shots of Jonathan Rhys-Meyers singin' and swivelin' as Elvis, Camryn Manheim as his beloved mother Gladys, and Robert Patrick as dad Vernon. Also seen for the first time are Clay Steakley and Mark Miller as Elvis' bandmates Scotty Moore and Bill Black, respectively. The mini series will screen in the US on 8 and 11 May. (News, Source: ign.com)

DVD set released in China: Apparently released in China is this 5 DVD box Elvis News found on eBay. It contains the "68 Comeback Special Deluxe Edition" (2DVD), "Aloha From Hawaii (2 DVD Set)" and "Elvis That's The Way It Is Special Edition". The DVD set is NTSC format and region free. (News, Source: eBay/ElvisNews.com)

Elvis tribute to move into bigger venue: Those blue suede shoes are hitting the road. San Jose Stage Company has announced it will produce "Idols of the King',' a musical tribute to Elvis, at the newly restored 1,100-seat California Theatre this summer instead of at the company's own 200-seat home. San Jose Stage officials cited strong group ticket sales, better acoustics and more backstage breathing room as reasons for the change. The musical, which spins around hits such as "Heartbreak Hotel'' and "Jailhouse Rock'', will be at the California July 13 through Aug. 7. Single tickets are $25 to $60 and will go on sale in March. For more information: (408) 283-7142, www.sanjosestage.com. (News, Source: Karen D'Souza, The Mercury News)

"Elvis Today" for 1 July release by FTD: One of the 1 July 2005 FTD releases will be a double CD issue of the RCA album, Elvis Today, with bonus tracks. Apparently it will be released with the FTD 7" Cover. (News, Source: Email)

Lisa Presley's World: Today we add a new section to the site - Lisa Presley's World. In it you will find all the latest news, reviews and articles about Lisa, together with more than 50 archival items. It has a different look and feel to the rest of the site, having been designed to appeal to Lisa's key audience. We will be updating the section regularly so please check back. To enter Lisa Presley's World simply click on the heading link or the link above. (Lisa Presley's World, Source: EIN)

Is it really the pillow from Elvis' coffin?: Doubt has been shed on the authenticity of the pillow recently listed on eBay (see Saturday 26 February 2005) - "From Marion Cocke, Elvis' nurse: I actually think this to be a piece of crap - first - I WAS THERE and his head was on a pillow - I drove to the cemetary with Bob Kendall - he drove - and after the service he drove us back to the house - the only way that he could have removed the pillow was to go back to the cemetary after he took us back to the house - and I just don't believe that he would have done that - and - Bob Kendall was divorced from this woman and he died seveeral years ago - its hard for me to believe that he did this and when he would have had the opportunity to do so!! - am gonna forward this on to GK". (News, Source: Sanja Meegin/Marion Cocke)

CKX stock begins trading March 1, 2005: Click to read a press release from Robert Sillerman's group regarding the start of stock trading for CKX, EPE's new parent company. (Sale of EPE/News, Source: EPE)

Elvis owned Army driver's book for sale: Listed yeaterday on eBay is "A rare army driver book from Elvis Presley, signed during his stay with the US Army, ca. 1959/60. The book is signed clearly on the front in blue biro and is guaranteed to be authentic. Any inside parts was marked with blue biro by elvis himself.This came from Elvis landlord in Bad Nauheim, named Mrs Pieper. It was acquired for many years ago from a friend of mrs. pipers family. EXCELLENT COMPLETE CONDITION . Original, NOT A COPY !!" The ebay link is: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=29873&item=3878267825&rd=1 (News, Source: ebay)

"His Latest Flame" sales figures: Here are the sales figures for last week's UK singles chart according to Music Week: 1. Nelly & Tim McGraw's "Over And Over" - 41,528 (the year's second highest tally, debuting at number one, with sales). 2. Jennifer Lopez's - Get Right - 29,406 (overall sales 79,337 enough for it to move to the top of the year-to-date rankings). 3. Elvis Presley - "(Marie's The Name) His Latest Flame" sold a respectable 27,441 copies (nearly 7,000 more than his One Night/I Got Stung which reached #1 in January). (News, Source: ElvisNews.com)

Cher honors Elvis: As part of her Farewell Tour show, Cher acknowledges Elvis, although as the following excerpt from a concert review indicates, not everyone is impressed: "But the true musical low-point was Cher claiming Elvis Presley as her first true hero, and then honouring him not with one of Presley's own gems, but with her version of the atrocious 1991 Marc Cohn song (Who? Exactly!) Walking in Memphis." (News, Source: Sanja Meegin/Martin Jones)

Click for February 2005