The latest on www.elvisinfonet.com:

Lisa Marie Presley's World Lamar Fike talks about his upcoming book & film, "Fike: An Uncommon Journey" Charmaine's Elvis Graphics

Best of Elvis on YouTube FTD Shop Susan MacDougall's Book Reviews

Strictly Elvis' Rocky Barra talks to EIN: The name Rocky Barra is one synonymous with the Elvis world in the 1970s. As the publisher of the monthly magazine, Strictly Elvis, Rocky became an iconic figure in the history of Elvis publishing. So what has Rocky been up to do since he stopped publishing Strictly Elvis? Rocky recently took time out to talk to EIN about the heady days of Strictly Elvis, why he decided to end its publication, the nearly 70 Elvis concerts he attended, his vast photo archives, how his relationship with Colonel Parker's office changed, and a lot more. (Interview, Source: EIN) Read Rocky's fascinating interview

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Elvis That's The Way It Is – The Complete Works (3DVD/6CD/Book box set): Due for release from the new International label is 'Elvis That's The Way It Is – The Complete Works'.

The stunning lavish box set will come with 6 CD's containing complete recordings of all the 6 shows that were recorded for the original movie Elvis That's The Way It Is. It includes many unreleased tracks (both officially and unofficially) from the shows with all the dialogue in its correct places, much of which is also previously unreleased.

The Set will also contain 3 dual layer DVD's with complete shows never before seen and heard with multi angle viewing and, will include a stunning hardback book. The set has been produced in very limited numbers.

A promo trailer and more details will follow soon. (News, Source: The Phantom)

	Best Elvis book release of 2008?: To date, Joe Tunzi's sublime, Elvis '68 at 40, is the stand-out book release of 2008. In the next few days the highly anticipated, The Elvis Encyclopedia, by Adam Victor is due to be released. Some are predicting it will rival, if not surpass the Tunzi release, as this year's best Elvis book. Stay tuned!

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Elvisly Yours signs new worldwide (except North America) licensing agreement for marketing of its Elvis memorabilia: Elvisly Yours is proud to announce an International Licensing Agreement has been signed with Andrew Maconie's "Licensing Management International Ltd" for LMI to represent the Elvisly Yours trademarks and Elvis photographs worldwide (except North America). Andrew was a pioneer in the Licensing business in the UK. He Licensed the original "Star Wars" and "Raiders of the Lost Ark" films. Elvis will be represented on the LMI Stand #235 at the Brand Licensing Europe Show, Olympia on October 1st and 2nd 2008.

Elvis' ancestors revealed: Did you know that one of Elvis' ancestors was Theudebald Meroving, King of the Franks? Theudebald was born in 530AD and is part of the 45th generation on Elvis' ancestry tree. (News, Source: Ancestors of Elvis Aaron Presley" 50 Generations, Lorina Bolig)

Book Review - The Man Who Made Elvis Laugh: Sammy Shore's second memoir is filled with wonderful stories about his time with Elvis and the countless other celebrities who he either opened for, or were his good friends. From Red Skelton, Bob Hope and Glen Campbell to Barbra Steisand, Sid Caesar and Ann-Margret, Sammy's memoir lives up to its by line of "A Life in American Comedy". There are many delicious one liners and more involved jokes to keep the reader smiling as you engage in Sammy's trip down memory lane to a sadly by-gone era - the Golden Era of Comedy. (Book Review, Source: EIN) Read EIN's full review

Elvis Collector's Plates - is the love affair all over?: EIN recently watched 30 listings of Elvis collector's plates on eBay. The club found that less than one quarter of the plates received a bid and sold. Of the 7 plates which did sell, 5 received only one bid and sold for an average price of US$12.95. With most plates not receiving even one bid and the sale price (of those which did sell) being way under each plate's original release price, is this a sign fans are no longer interested in what was once a burgeoning segment of the Elvis market?

Even the iconic Elvis at the Gates of Graceland plate, which has a book price around US$100.00 is selling on eBay for under $20.00! There are currently 9 copies of the plate listed on eBay with prices ranging from $9.99 to $100.00 (Buy It Now). Not one of the 9 listings has received a bid.

The Elvis collector's plate market really took off after Elvis' death. More than 200 plates have been catalogued with many, if not most, marketed as limited edition investments. Sadly, for those who did buy to invest, the reality is an unfortunate one......one which mirrors many other segments of the Elvis market! (News, Source: EIN)

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Aussie chart update: Elvis The King of Rock 'n' Roll fell 5 placews to #20 on this week's ARIA Music DVD Chart. However, after being at Gold status for many weeks it has finally been certified Platinum! Elvis The '68 Comeback Special is a re-entry on the chart at #40 (it is a former #1 music DVD on the chart). (News, Source: ARIA)

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Las Vegas "all shook up" about Elvis star: Elvis is once again a star on Las Vegas Boulevard.

In a ceremony Friday that featured three of his old pals, the Las Vegas Walk of Stars honored The King with a celebrity star that will go in front of the Riviera near those of fellow icons Liberace and Sammy Davis Jr.

Only a few items left! - 'All The King's Men' rarities for Sale: Marty Lacker has decided to sell some copies of All The King's Men videos as well as two specially packaged complete sets of all 6 volumes which includes as a bonus, the cassette tape of the entire rare conversation between Elvis and Red West in '77 regarding Red's book, Elvis What Happened? These are the only signed videos available anywhere except for Marty's personal copies. In addition he is also selling copies of his original drawing of the Tree Of Life that he designed for Elvis. Marty and the gang had it inscribed in gold in a big white Bible that they gave Elvis for Christmas,'64. Marty then had it engraved on a gold medallion that they gave Elvis for his birthday in January '65. Elvis wore it around his neck for years as it meant a great deal to him. Marty is doing this to help finish a project that he started for his granddaughter. Click here to reach Marty directly (News, Source: Marty Lacker)

'The Complete '68 Comeback Special' CD Review: For the 40th Anniversary BMG/SONY release a 4CD "Complete '68 Comeback Special" to the general public. Hard-core Elvis fans have been overly dismissive, pointing out that we have all bought the same product previously. But is this true? Here we not only get the ORIGINAL Album version (The 'Memories' set was a very different compilation) but also something refreshing about the way this new set has been compiled. The second CD itself cleverly leads us from Elvis jamming with the boys on his very first release 'That's All Right' through a fabulous revitalisation of his classic songs all the way to the stunning 'If I Can Dream' which would be his newest single. It is still a fascinating musical journey. So is this a new chance for us to be revitalised by Elvis' fresh and exciting rock'n'roll renaissance, or just a marketing rip-off? EIN's Piers Beagley spends a while with Elvis in his gorgeous leather suit. Click here for the in-depth review. (News, Source;EIN)

isa Schwarzbaum is a film critic for EW"hounddog" - another view: Film critic Lisa Schwarzbaum was less than impressed by "hounddog": There's no way Hounddog ain't a greasy gumbo of a mellerdrammer (sorry for the language, that's just the effect of too much Southern Gothic cliché gettin' to me). But Deborah Kampmeier's pulp fiction — about a country girly devoted to the music of Elvis Presley in a 1950s backwoods located somewhere near Tennessee Williamsland — might have stood a shot at being judged on its own Black Snake Moan terms had it starred some interesting, unknown girl, and not the famous young phenom Dakota Fanning.

As it is, Hounddog is destined to be described in shorthand, now and forever, as the one where Dakota Fanning Gets Raped. Even so, that violence is only a small, relatively tastefully handled episode in a drama heaped with clichés like...like a big ol' plate of grits. Here, in one swamp, is a drunk, brain-damaged Daddy (David Morse); a twisted, sin-patrolling Granny (Piper Laurie); a battered, sad, sexy lady (Robin Wright Penn), a Wise Black Man (Afemo Omilami) who teaches our heroine about the real, black man's blues music (none of this Elvis hooey); and lots of snakes. Under the circumstances, Fanning is remarkably collected and even dignified. As for the rest of the gang, they ought to be returned to sender. Rating: F (Film Review. Source: Lisa Schwarzbaum, EW.com)

For other reviews of "hounddog" visit EIN's Elvis Celluloid page

Greatest Number 1 Hits: Billboard continues its review of the first 50 years of the Hot 100 chart by announcing the greatest #1 hits since 1958. Elvis features with Surrender (1961). Here is the full list:

1958: All I Have To Do Is Dream - The Everly Brothers
1959: Stagger Lee - Lloyd Price
1960: Stay - Maurice Williams and the Zodiacs
1961: Surrender - Elvis Presley
1962: I Can't Stop Loving You - Ray Charles
1963: Fingertips Pt. 2 - Stevie Wonder
1964: House Of The Rising Sun - The Animals
1965: (I Can't Get No) Satisfaction - The Rolling Stones
1966: Good Vibrations - The Beach Boys
1967: Hello, Goodbye - The Beatles
1968: (Sittin' On) The Dock Of The Bay - Otis Redding
1969: Everyday People - Sly & the Family Stone
1970: The Tears Of A Clown - Smokey Robinson & The Miracles
1971: Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me) - The Temptations
1972: Let's Stay Together - Al Green
1973: Let's Get It On - Marvin Gaye
1974: The Joker - Steve Miller Band
1975: Island Girl - Elton John
1976: 50 Ways To Leave Your Lover - Paul Simon
1977: Hotel California - The Eagles
1978: Stayin' Alive - Bee Gees
1979: Heart Of Glass - Blondie
1980: Another Brick In The Wall, Pt. 2 - Pink Floyd
1981: Starting Over, (Just Like) - John Lennon
1982: Jack And Diane - John Cougar Mellencamp
1983: Beat It - Michael Jackson
1984: When Doves Cry - Prince
1985: Everybody Wants To Rule The World - Tears for Fears
1986: Sledgehammer - Peter Gabriel
1987: With Or Without You - U2
1988: Sweet Child O' Mine - Guns N' Roses
1989: Like A Prayer - Madonna
1990: Vision Of Love - Mariah Carey
1991: Set Adrift On Memory Bliss - P.M. Dawn
1992: Baby Got Back - Sir Mix-A-Lot
1993: I Will Always Love You - Whitney Houston
1994: Bump N' Grind - R. Kelly
1995: Waterfalls - TLC
1996: California Love - 2Pac
1997: Mo Money Mo Problems - Notorious B.I.G.
1998: Doo Wop (That Thing) - Lauryn Hill
1999: Smooth - Santana
2000: Amazed - Lonestar
2001: All For You - Janet Jackson
2002: Hot In Herre - Nelly
2003: Hey Ya! - Outkast
2004: Yeah! - Usher
2005: Gold Digger - Kanye West
2006: SexyBack - Justin Timberlake

Joan Deary Tapes CD released: OUT NOW is the first release from Surprise Records. A new CD full with great Elvis songs taken directly from the Joan Deary Tapes! 24 great Elvis tracks with a total playing time over 77 minutes - in stunning never-before heard sound quality. The late Joan Deary (Elvis' RCA record producer) worked on these tracks for a possible future release on the "Greatest Hits" series, but after Volume 1 was released back then in 1981 (?) a Volume 2 never followed. So these professionally remixed tapes were put into the archives.

Tracklist: 01. Hey Jude 02. Help Me Make It Through The Night 03. Fools Rush In (Where Angels Fear To Trade) 04. I’’ll Take You Home Again, Kathleen 05. When I’’m Over You 06. Always On My Mind 07. It Ain’’t No Big Thing (But It’’s Growing) 08. I’’m Leavin’’ 09. Where Do I Go From Here 10. Until It’’s Time For You To Go 11. If I Were You 12. Got My Mojo Working / Keep Your Hands Off Of It 13. Fool 14. This Is Our Dance 15. Cindy, Cindy 16. Separate Ways 17. (That’’s What You Get) For Lovin’’ Me 18. Life 19. Love Letters 20. I’’ll Never Know 21. We Can Make The Morning 22. Early Morning Rain 23. Sylvia 24. The Sound Of Your Cry. (News, Source: Herbert Steiner)

STAR Entertainment proudly presents: THE ULTIMATE RELEASE OF 2008! E L V I S Both Sides Of The Show: AMAZING 4 DISC BOX SET! - 3 DVDs and 1 CD - PLUS ...............LIMITED EDITION NUMBERED REPLICA OF A 1970s LAS VEGAS PROMO POSTCARD!!!( and yes... its an EXCACT replica !!)

A TRUE COLLECTORS EDITION, PRESENTED TO YOU BY THE BEST....... STAR! FOOTAGE AND AUDIO INCLUDES:

- THE NEAR COMPLETE JULY 1970 REHEARSALS INCLUDING NEVER BEFORE RELEASED SONGS!

- ELVIS ´ LAS VEGAS 1970 OPENING NIGHT

- FOR THE FIRST TIME ON DVD: THE ORIGINAL ´THAT´S THE WAY IT IS´ SOUNDTRACK ALBUM!

- BY POPULAR DEMAND: ON CD - ´THAT´S THE WAY IT IS´ - THE ALTERNATE ALBUM

ALL HOUSED 1 BEAUTIFUL DESIGNED 4 DISC SET BOX! YOU THINK YOU ARE DREAMING?? NO, ITS REAL, AND IT´S HERE ON SALE... NOW!!!!! FORGET THIS YEARS´ CHRISTMAS WISH LIST, THIS BOXSET IS ALL YOU NEED!

DVD 1 – JULY REHEARSALS – MGM STUDIOS, CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA: Ghost Riders in the Sky/Playing Demos/You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me/Polk Salad Annie/Words/The Next Step is Love/I Got A Woman/Lunch/(Until Then)Just Pretend/Tomorrow Never Comes/ You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me/Yesterday/Hey Jude/I Can’t Stop Loving You/Crying Time/Love Me/One Night/That’s All Right (slow)/ That’s All Right (fast)/Twenty Days and Twenty Nights/How the Web Was Woven/ I’ll Take You Home Again Kathleen/Something/Words/I Just Can’t Help Believing/Little Sister-Get Back/I Washed My Hands in Muddy Water/I Was the One/Cattle Call/ Baby Let’s Play House/Don’t/Money Honey/Hard Headed Woman/A Fool Such As I/Such A Night/It’s Now Or Never/My Baby Left Me/You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me /Stranger in the Crowd/The Wonder of You...................TOTAL PLAYING TIME 108 MINUTES

DVD 2 – AUGUST REHEARSALS/OPENING NIGHT, INTERNATIONAL HOTEL, LAS VEGAS NEVADA: Viva Las Vegas/Don’t Cry Daddy/In the Ghetto/You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling/Mary in the Morning/Cooling Down/We’ve Got Elvis Back With Us/Sweet Caroline/Fear/Tiger Man/Elvis Walks to Stage/A Thing Called Love/That’s All Right/Mystery Train-Tiger Man/I Can’t Stop Loving You/Love Me Tender/The Next Step is Love/ Words/You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling/You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me/Polk Salad Annie/Patch It Up/Can’t Help Falling in Love/I Just Can’t Help Believing...........................TOTAL PLAYING TIME 81 MINUTES

“Although every effort has been made to keep all performances in order, some portions have been altered for your viewing pleasure...”

DVD 3 – The Original “Elvis – That’s the Way It Is” album: I Just Can’t Help Believing/Twenty Days and Twenty Nights/How the Web Was Woven/Patch It Up/Mary in the Morning/You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me/You’ve \Lost That Loving Feeling/I’ve Lost You/Just Pretend/Stranger in the Crowd/The Next Step is Love/Bridge Over Troubled Water/Special Bonus - 4 Hits performed live during the 1970 Summer Festival: The Wonder of You/In The Ghetto/Don’t Cry Daddy/Suspicious Minds...............................TOTAL PLAYING TIME 63 MINUTES

BONUS CD – THE ALTERNATE “Elvis – That’s the Way It Is” album: I Just Can’t Help Believing (Live, 08-10-1970)/Twenty Days and Twenty Nights (take 2)/ How the Web Was Woven (take 1)/Patch It Up (Spliced take)/Mary in the Morning (spliced take)/You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me (take 2)/You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling (Live, 08-11-1970 MS)/I’ve Lost You (Live, 08-10-1970)/Just Pretend (take 2)/Stranger in the Crowd (Live 08-13-1970 DS)/The Next Step is Love (take 6)/Bridge Over Troubled Water (take 1) ......................Order Now: Euro 29,95 plus postage (News, Source: EP Gold)

Love story.......Knut mourns his keeper after bond formed through caring and Elvis: The documentaries that showed him strumming Elvis's "(You're The) Devil in Disguise" on a guitar as he lulled the world's most famous polar bear to sleep were enough to win the hearts of millions of Germans. This week, Thomas Dörflein, the Berlin zoo keeper who raised Knut from cub to full maturity, was found dead in mysterious circumstances in a friend's Berlin apartment. (Reports suggested the cause was cancer or a heart attack, but ruled out suicide.) It emerged that it wasn't only the bear who had been receiving bucketloads of fan mail. With his endearing manner, thick black beard and shoulder-length hair swept back in a ponytail, Dörflein, who was just 44, was an unlikely heart-throb who had been deluged with letters from admiring women. According to reports yesterday, in the past few weeks the keeper had been fending off groupies every time he left the apartment he shared with his girlfriend, Daniela.

Berlin was in mourning yesterday following the news of the keeper's death. "Everyone wanted to be like Thomas Dörflein," is how Berlin's BZ newspaper put it, "he not only cared for Knut; he nurtured our desire to see harmony between man and beast."

Klaus Wowereit, Berlin's mayor, said the city had lost an important symbol. Berlin Zoo itself described the keeper's death as tragic and a "great loss".

So what was it about this man that captured the German imagination? His appeal, of course, had everything to do with the other half of his double-act, the bear Knut. Their relationship became symbiotic not long after photographs and television footage of the tiny, snowy-white and initially blind bear were released, following the animal's birth at Berlin Zoo in December 2006. He had been rejected by his mother, a disturbed East German circus bear called Tosca, and under natural conditions Knut would have died shortly after birth.

Dörflein came to the rescue. For nearly 18 months, the keeper acted as a surrogate mother, hand-feeding his charge day and night with baby bottles full of milk, rubbing his body with baby oil, and playing him sentimental Elvis hits songs. He even christened the bear with an Old Norse name: "He just looks like a Knut," was how Dörflein justified his choice.

By late last year, however, Dörflein, who had practically given up life with his own family to look after Knut, appeared to have had enough. He said that he could wish the bear no better first-birthday present than permanent separation. There had been fears that Knut was becoming dependent on his human parent and the zoo banned physical contact between the two in July 2007. Dörflein defied the ban, however, and continued to enter Knut's enclosure at Berlin Zoo until February this year. But he had misgivings.

"Some day soon, Knut and I will have to split up," he said in an interview last year, adding that the bear needed a bigger compound. Berlin Zoo has been attempting to find a new home for Knut since then.

The extraordinary man-bear relationship became a media saga. Documentaries were pumped out by German television stations, and acres of print were devoted to the bear in the nation's popular press. When Knut first appeared in public at Berlin Zoo in March 2006, more than 500 journalists were present to record the event. Last year, the bear even appeared on the cover of the German edition of Vanity Fair (without Dörflein).

Conservative estimates put the profits that Knut has generated for Berlin Zoo at €10m. Hundreds of cuddly white Knut toy bears are sold as souvenirs to Berlin visitors daily, 25,000 silver commemorative Knut coins have been issued by the Federal Mint as collector's items and Berlin newspapers offer their readers Knut porcelain figurines at €148 apiece. A Hollywood film starring Knut opened in German cinemas this week.

But Knut's celebrity status prompted animal psychologists to warn earlier this year that the bear had developed psychopathic tendencies. Several suggested that Knut had become addicted to humans and their company and would never manage to live successfully with other polar bears or find a mate.

Berlin Zoo has been attempting to find Knut another home since the beginning of the year, albeit without success. At the same time, zoos across Germany have been involved in a protracted debate about the pros and cons of keeper-raising polar bears that have been rejected by their mothers. Some zoo directors argued that the practice was unnatural after another baby polar bear – also rejected by its mother – was born under similar circumstances at Nuremberg zoo this year.

For his part, Dörflein, who is survived by two grown-up children, aged 21 and 17, always denied suggestions that he had become emotionally involved with Knut.

"Knut is not like my child and he does not arouse the kind of emotions I feel towards my children," he said in an interview. " For me, Knut is always an animal."

Similarly, Berlin Zoo yesterday categorically ruled out suggestions that Knut would experience feelings of loss as a result of his keeper's passing. "It won't be a problem for him," said Klaus Lüdcke, a Berlin zoologist, "Knut has been looked after by a whole team – and for him the most important person is the one who brings the food." (News, Source: Tony Paterson/The Independent)

Elvis vinyl single for sale: 991.com has the following original Elvis single for sale:

ELVIS PRESLEY The Wonder Of You (Scarce 1970 UK orange four prong centre RCA label 7" vinyl single also featuring Mama Liked The Roses. RCA1974). Price: AUD17.68 / £ 8.00

Elvis' half sister update: A 46-year-old woman who claims to be the half-sister of Elvis Presley is asking a court to reopen the estate of the rock-and-roll legend's father, Vernon Presley, and to be admitted as an heir.

According to the petition filed in Shelby County Probate Court, Eliza Alice Presley said her mother gave her up for adoption at birth and that after a lifetime search she learned this summer through DNA testing that Vernon Presley was her father. The divorced mother of four then changed her name from Alice Elizabeth Tiffin.

"I am 99.99 percent sure that Eliza Presley and Elvis Aaron Presley are half siblings and that she is not related to Elvis Presley's mother's relatives and that can only mean that they share a father," said Donald Yates, head of DNA Consulting in Scottsdale, Ariz., who said he has worked on the case for five years.

"There was no DNA from Vernon. The relationship has to be inferred from the DNA from other family members. We're talking about samples from an extended family group." The attorney who handled Vernon Presley's estate was not available for comment and Kevin Kern, spokesman for Graceland, is traveling out of the country. Vernon Presley died June 26, 1979, at age 63. Elvis died in 1977.

He said that included DNA from Elvis, but he would not elaborate on where or how that was obtained.

Probate Court Clerk Chris Thomas said Wednesday a hearing on the Texas woman's petition is set for next month.

"I've never had one where someone comes in after the estate's been closed almost 25 years," he said. "Most of the people involved are dead."

He said Vernon Presley's estate distributed a total of about $200,000 to his heirs and has been closed since 1985. Vernon Presley was the executor of the Elvis estate, the bulk of which went to his only daughter, Lisa Marie.

DNA expert Yates said Eliza Presley's mother, Florence Juanita Sharp, lived across the street from Graceland as a teenager, but that little is know about how she might have met Vernon Presley. He said Sharp moved to Pasadena, Texas, where Eliza was born Jan. 23, 1962, and placed for adoption.

Despite the petition seeking to reopen Vernon Presley's estate and be admitted as an heir, Eliza Presley's motive is not money, Yates said.

"Shake, Rattle and Roll" lewd lyrics: Now, for a good old song that DOES have sexual entendres, how about "Shake, Rattle, and Roll'' by Big Joe Turner?

"I'm like a one-eyed cat, peeping in a seafood store.

I'm like a one-eyed cat, peeping in a seafood store.

Well I could look at you, til you ain't no child no more.''

I heard that song 10 or 12 times before it hit me what those lines meant. Anyway, good song, decent lyrics, and I love the way the saxes come in a little earlier on each beat. It really keeps the song moving. (News, Source: Amber Smith)

'The Essential Elvis Presley' Limited Edition 3.0 CD: New from SONY/BMG US is 'The Essential Elvis Presley' as a 3CD fold-out digipak set. The Limited Edition 3.0 contains a bonus 3rd CD but with only 8 extra tracks. The set however includes a nice booklet. (News, Source; Barry Mclean)

'Back With A Bang! CD Review; This Midnight concert from Friday March 22nd has always been a fan favourite and is one of Elvis’ best Vegas concerts from 1975. Originally released by Fort Baxter on their ‘A Profile Vol.2’ box-set it was the best concert in the series. Now 12 years later it is upgraded and re-released by the Audionics/Fort Baxter team. 1975 was the last time that Elvis made any major changes to his repertoire and the new additions created a fascinating concert, as well as keeping it fresh for Elvis and the band. Despite the fact that ill health had caused Elvis' regular January Vegas season to be postponed for two months, Elvis’ mood and health had improved, perhaps due to the new presence of girlfriend Sheila Ryan - Elvis was indeed "Back With A Bang!" Go here for detailed review. (CD reviews, Source;EIN)

30CD Collection: The Complete Works: As has been known for a while, BMG and Ernst Jorgensen are working on a 30 CD Box Set that will contain all official masters as released during Elvis' life time. The recent news is that it will also include another 3 or 4 hours of the most interesting alternate takes, demos, live recordings, home recordings. The set will be USA made and a limited edition to less than 10,000 units. (Right; Remember the 50 CD original collection?) Ernst Jorgensen: "This is a one shot deal. It's coming, it's here, it's gone as Colonel Parker would say. It will be 30 CDs in a very prestigious packaging with a fantastic book with it. USA made, limited edition less than 10,000. It's killed me for 15 months now. The work load has been absurd but I could not deny it. I could not deny being a part of that. To me, it is the most astonishing wonderful idea. Here's a whole definition at this time is that it is all official masters as released during Elvis' life time with another 3 or 4 hours (and we have to define that) of the most interesting alternate takes, demos, live recordings, home recordings. There will not be 1 unreleased element on that box because that would be brutally unfair and only encourage bootlegging. You have to want to own that thing. We're not taking you as hostages. But at the same time, it is also a total restoration of every Elvis master with new digital technology." EIN Note: This information comes from the latest Magazine Elvis Unlimited, and an exclusive interview with Ernst Jorgensen by Megan Murphy. (News, Source;Elvis Unlimited)

“Hounddog” box office: In its first weekend of limited release in the US, the controversial Dakota Fanning film, “hounddog”, took in US$13,744.00 at the box office.  While this is comparatively small box office receipts, the film was released only in 11 theatres.  When one considers the top 10 grossing films were showing in around 2,500 theatres the gross is not that bad.  In fact, had “hounddog” been released country wide, its $1,249.45 per theatre average would have placed it in the Top 10 films for the weekend! (News, Source: EIN/Yahoo Movies)

'All The King's Men' rarities for Sale: Marty Lacker has decided to sell some copies of All The King's Men videos as well as two specially packaged complete sets of all 6 volumes which includes as a bonus, the cassette tape of the entire rare conversation between Elvis and Red West in '77 regarding Red's book, Elvis What Happened? These are the only signed videos available anywhere except for Marty's personal copies. In addition he is also selling copies of his original drawing of the Tree Of Life that he designed for Elvis. Marty and the gang had it inscribed in gold in a big white Bible that they gave Elvis for Christmas,'64. Marty then had it engraved on a gold medallion that they gave Elvis for his birthday in January '65. Elvis wore it around his neck for years as it meant a great deal to him. Marty is doing this to help finish a project that he started for his granddaughter. Click here to reach Marty directly : (News, Source: Marty Lacker)

'The Talk Of  The Town' new import CD: Here is the covert art of the forthcoming release "THE TALK OF THE TOWN" from the Audionics & 2001 labels. It is their second release of this special partnership and this CD will feature the Las Vegas, January 26, 1972 Opening show as taken directly from first generation DAT copy of original mono soundboard tape.   This classic concert includes first ever live performances of "Never Been To Spain", "You Gave Me A Mountain", "Until It's Time For You To Go", "A Big Hunk O' Love", "An American Trilogy" and "I'll Remember You". For this reissue, we worked directly from the first generation DAT, and we were able to make significant audio improvements, compared to original 1997 release. "Audionics / 2001" hope that this special joint-production will satisfy all those fans who have been asking for a reissue of this essential concert. This CD is scheduled for late October. Excerpt from the sleeve notes: "Mid January 1972. Richard Nixon was in the Whitehouse, the anthemic "American Pie" topped the singles charts and NASA were working hard on Apollo 16, the penultimate manned Moon mission. Ali was still the Champ, and at cinemas all over the world people thrilled to the latest James Bond adventure, as Sean Connery battled the evil mastermind

"Nevada Nights" FTD tracklist & album details: To be released next month the new "Nevada Nights" double CD from FTD will be presented in a double-digipack similar to the earlier 'New Years Eve' FTD. Featuring 44 tracks, it included Elvis stunning Opening Show from August 19th 1974 as well as the Midnight Show from August 21. The CD has been mastered by Lene Reidel. Click here for full details:   (News, Source;ElvisNorway)

"Elvis Country" FTD tracklist & album details: To be released next month the new "Elvis Country" Classic Album from FTD is the upgrade of Elvis' original January, 1971 LP that went to # 12 in the US charts. It comes in a 7" deluxe package and features 40 tracks, including 11 new "takes" and some undubbed masters takes. With updated sound quality it has been mastered by Lene Reidel and Vic Anesini. Click here for full details:   (News, Source;ElvisNorway)

'The Candlelight Vigil' - Elvis Week 2008: The third and final part of our Elvis week 2008 series looks at the Vigil day - plus the Fan Club Presidents' Event with a memorial to Todd Morgan. There is also a link to SeattleSusie's 10 minute video of her highlights from Elvis Week. Susan Graham has worked on several Elvis projects, including the production of the DVD '200 Cadillacs' and is a regular visitor to Memphis. This is the final part of a special EIN series looking at the highlights of this year's Elvis Week. (Spotlight, Source:EIN/SusanGraham

The Canadian BMG sales flyer notes the following... KEY SELLING POINTS Elvis Presley "The Christmas Album" is the best selling Christmas album of all time! First ever Elvis Duets album. Special bonus Renee Martel track on Canada-only version. New Elvis releases have sold over 100,000 units in Canada in the past year alone, proving there continues to be strong sales demand for The King! "The Holiday Collection" Collector's Tin sold over 35,000 units in its first holiday season. MARKETING $125,000 national marketing campaign to include national TV, print & radio. Marketing spends will run from mid-November through Christmas to capitalize on the gift-giving season. 1/2 page Food & Drink ad running November - December issue. U.S. spillover to include TV specials and events including the NYC Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting ceremony RADIO & VIDEO "Blue Christmas" video featuring Martins McBride and Elvis Presley to be serviced to all video outlets 1 hour radio special being produced for placement nationwide. Targeting both English & French versions.  (News, Source, Barry Mclean)

'Red Hot In Richmond' Out Now: Following on from the Madison label's sensational release last month of 'Greensboro Revolution!' (the first stereo release of Elvis’ 1972 ‘On Tour’ Greensboro concert) comes 'Red-Hot In Richmond' (Standing Room Only Tapes Volume Two). This fiery performance, recorded in Richmond, Virginia by the MGM documentary cameras on April 10, 1972 is now released for the first time in top notch sound and in superb stereo! Disappointingly only small parts of this stunning concert made the final cut of MGM's 'Elvis On Tour'. Elvis was in great humour for the whole show and tracks like 'Proud Mary', 'It's Over', 'For The Good Times' and 'An American Trilogy' were first rate. Another great release, worth tracking down. (News, Source;Email)

Graceland Christmas Lighting Event 2008 Set for November 21st: EPE will help kickoff the holiday season with the annual lighting of Elvis’ Graceland mansion. The Christmas festivities officially begin on Friday, November 21st when Elvis’ traditional lights and decorations on the mansion property come to life during a special lighting ceremony at 6:15PM CT at the front gates of Graceland. (*Please note that 11/21 is the Friday before the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.) The extensive spectacle includes hundreds of blue lights along the driveway, a life-size Nativity scene, Santa and his sleigh and much more originally displayed by Elvis and the Presley family. The interior of Graceland mansion will also be decked in Elvis’s Christmas décor for the holiday season and includes his traditional red velvet drapes and Presley family Christmas artifacts on display around the decorated trees. (News, Source;EPE)

Chart Update: On this week's Aussie ARIA Music DVD Chart, Elvis The King of Rock 'n' Roll slips 6 places to #15 after 24 weeks on the chart. It is certified Gold. The Comeback Special DVD dropped off this week's ARIA chart. (News, Source: ARIA)

Greece promo CD: The eleven track compilation "The official RCA Masters" was just released as a promo CD by SONY / BMG Greece. (News, Source: Elvis News/ebay)

What Elvis taught me (Part 2): Richard Glover says: SOME people follow Confucius, others swear by the philosophical insights of Plato or Sartre. Why not instead study the songs of Elvis Presley? Taken as a whole, they contain everything from handy tips about geography ("a river flows surely to the sea") to practical travel advice (the YMCA in Memphis has cheap accommodation), right through to religious instruction ("I'm lonely like Adam, you're evil like Eve"). We conclude Richard's article today:

THE ANIMAL KINGDOM
1. There are few looks in life more intense than that of a one-eyed cat peeping in a seafood store.
2. A passionate kiss can be measured by the fact that even a team of wild horses would be unable to drag apart the two participants.
3. The embrace of a grizzly bear provides a useful point of comparison when considering the pressure necessary to demonstrate real passion during an affair.
4. A good hound dog should be able to catch a rabbit.

GEOGRAPHY
1. People are more likely to be alone during a blue moon than during any other lunar event.
2. In the state of Kentucky, precipitation usually occurs when a man is hitchhiking from town to town, having been abandoned by his baby.

MEDICAL
1. The lips of attractive women tend to taste like breakfast spread, in particular honey.
2. A temperature of 109 is quite common during the early stages of an affair.
3. The experience of love, especially early in life, can have serious medical consequences including sensations of itching, hand tremors, leg spasms, heart palpitations and language difficulties.

HISTORY
1. American soldiers were unable to approach young women in Germany in the period after the war, as local women wore signs in German saying, "Keepen Sie Off The Grass."

PHILOSOPHY
1. Children born in disadvantaged areas such as ghettos should receive special assistance as this reduces the likelihood of them turning to a life of crime, thus perpetuating an endless cycle of disadvantage.
2. A rabbit's foot, while widely considered a creator of good luck, makes only a moderate contribution to one's happiness compared to the impact of finding a good life partner.
3. If you suspect someone is evil check their middle name because it may well be "Misery".

Now, show me one passage in Plato, Sartre or Confucius that can match all of that for depth, width and wisdom. I've lived my life by it, how about you?

RIP Elvis, the King. (News, Source: Sydney Morning Herald)

'Elvis: Return to Tupelo' on US Biography Channel: A reminder for those who missed the first showing, the US Biography Channel will re-air the fascinating documentary of 'ELVIS: Return to Tupelo' on Sunday September 21st! This thought provoking documentary includes fascinating film clips and photos of the deep South, especially Tupelo, from the mid 1930s through Elvis' pivotal return to Tupelo in 1956, and includes unique photos and insightful interviews never seen before. Click here for EIN's review. In the Los Angeles area it is scheduled at 1:00PM in the afternoon. Please check your listings for the time in your area. Click here to the Bio programming details.

After viewing, please send a comment to the Biography TV Channel to thank them for showing this historical Elvis documentary. You can also suggest that they show more intelligent, absorbing documentaries of this caliber on Elvis Presley. This is the link to the comments site. (News, Source;E.I.N/JGansky)

Marty Lacker selling more items: Marty Lacker has decided to sell some copies of All The King's Men videos as well as two specially packaged complete sets of all 6 volumes which includes as a bonus, the cassettte tape of the entire rare conversation between Elvis and Red West in '77 regarding Red's book, Elvis What Happened?  In addition Marty has one each of the Memphis Mafia Beer Mug and MM Coffee Mug that were offered 10 years ago.  These are all the videos and mugs anywhere except Marty's personal copies. If interested you can reach Marty at: moon7332@bellsouth.net   In case you're wondering why he's doing this, it is to finish a project that he started for his granddaughter. (News, Source: Marty Lacker)

Bootleg discography being released: Released in Italy is the book "From The Dark To The Light: The Bootleg Discography" by Mario Coradduzza. On 132 pages the book a lot of vinyl and CD bootlegs come by. (News, Source: Elvis Club Berlin/ Elvis News)

More albums from iTunes: A Twenty tracks compilation entitled "Rock And Roll Days" was released August 28, 2008 on the Smith & Co. label on iTunes. A new iTunes compilation album release on the Delta label is the 20 tracks set "The King's Greatest Hits" which was released September 16, 2008. Also released through iTunes is the CD "The Movies" with seventeen tracks from the movies "Love Me Tender", "Loving You" and "Jailhouse Rock". This has january 2008 as the release date but only showed up on iTunes this week. Released on same day on the Copyright label are the three compilations "The Way It Was- First In Line", The Way It Was - I Want To Be Free" and "The Way It Was - I Was The One". All three compilations contain over twenty tracks. (News, Source: iTunes/Elvis News)

Woman instrumental in Elvis' Toronto concerts dies: Many thanks to Jim Roy for this story: At home, with her family in her heart and at her side, Shirley Deasley passed away in gracious peace. After a 10 month courageous battle with cancer Shirley left our world to join so many others she has loved and lost. Shirley will be dearly missed by her three sons: Craig, Bryan and Grant and their spouses: Meredith, Aleisha, and Karyn. Shirley adored her five grandchildren: Danielle, Taylor, Cole, Paige and William. Her smile and zest for life will live on in them. Predeceased by her husband of 40 years, Harry, she leaves behind many memories shared with her sister Marlene Bunting, her brother Ray and Shirley's best friend and sister-in-law Mary Harris. Shirley was a devoted mother of 3 and the adopted mother' of many. Friends of her boys were always made welcome at her home. Her joys and passions were simple but pure family, friends and a good laugh. Taking pleasure in life's small joys and treasuring each moment. She was a kind and loving woman who touched all those she knew. Her passion for a challenging project started in her teen years as she was instrumental in getting Elvis to appear in Toronto in 1957 his only appearance in Toronto - and continued until her final days as she learned Spanish and navigation / charting in anticipation of a 3 month trip through South America with her Captain John. (News, Source: Toronto Star/James V. Roy)

What Elvis taught me (Part 1): Richard Glover says: SOME people follow Confucius, others swear by the philosophical insights of Plato or Sartre. Why not instead study the songs of Elvis Presley? Taken as a whole, they contain everything from handy tips about geography ("a river flows surely to the sea") to practical travel advice (the YMCA in Memphis has cheap accommodation), right through to religious instruction ("I'm lonely like Adam, you're evil like Eve").

Today, on the anniversary of Elvis's death, it may be time to codify that knowledge. Herewith the 30 things I've learned about life from listening to Elvis.

TRAVEL
1. The typical train is 16 carriages long.
2. All food in Germany consists of hasenpfeffer and black pumpernickel.
3. The Heartbreak Hotel is located at the end of Lonely Street and its desk clerk dresses in black.
4. Hula dancers are best judged by their ability to really move that grass around.
5. A harem in the Middle East contains 20 women.
6. So efficient is the US postal service that it will return an unwanted letter within 24 hours of its initial posting.
7. There are few sounds that make you feel more lonely than that of the midnight train.
8. If hitchhiking, it's hard to choose a better destination than Memphis, Tennessee.

RELATIONSHIPS
1. When inviting a young woman to dance, you may increase your chances by noting that chicken is being served in the barn.
2. If rejected by the older sister in a family, by all means have a crack at her little sister, who may have matured more than you at first noticed.
3. Women named Marie are naturally duplicitous.
4. It's OK to date your cousin, providing she's a distant cousin "but not too distant with you".
5. Girls named Daisy tend to drive you crazy.
6. If caught without a partner during a dance at a federal penitentiary, why not try dancing with a wooden chair?
7. Conversation with a girlfriend can become tiresome if she fails to break up the conversation every now and then with a little action.
8. A .44-calibre pistol is an excellent firearm choice for a woman whose partner was doin' her wrong.

PERSONAL GROOMING
1. If wearing suede shoes, particularly of a light hue, one should make their protection one's No. 1 priority, even above that of preventing arson attacks on one's own home.

Part 2 of Richard Glover's article will be published on Monday. (News, Source: Sydney Morning Herald)

More contemporary remixes: Due for release on the Forte / Cmith & Co. label on October 13, 2008 in the UK is a new remix album entitled "King Elvis Presleys Original Songs Remixed For The Next Century". Synopsis: A new approach to Elvis! Alex "Latino" Zullo and Paolo Bolio have gone back into the studio with their crew to remix and add overdubs, bringing the King right up to date. The result is 13 superb rockers and ballads as well as two remixes of the remixes giving us a couple of tracks that would grace any cutting edge dance club. This is not just another PD album. This is how Elvis would sound if he was recording now and there is nothing like it on the market. A unique product from a unique artist. Tracks: Any Place Is Paradise / Blue Moon / Love Me Tender / Anyway You Want Me (That’s The Way I’ll Be) / Love Me / Money Honey / Blue Suede Shoes / Don’t Be Cruel / Trying To Get To You / Heartbreak Hotel / Tutti Frutti / Hound Dog / Shake Rattle & Roll / Blue Suede Shoes (Remix) / Love Me Tender (Remix). (News, Source: Elvis News)

Inside Blue Hawaii boxset: The latest boxset from Elvis Unlimited has been announced. "Inside Blue Hawaii" will be the fifth movie (after Double Trouble, GI Blues, Love Me Tender and Roustabout) that gets an exclusive and detailed look behind the scenes, combining a book, DVD and vinyl single – all packed in a deluxe collector’s box. Due for release in this quarter. (News, Source: Amber Smith)

Hounddog director speaks about the film's controversy: AFTER talking with her for five minutes, it's hard to believe director Deborah Kampmeier is the same woman who's been accused of exploiting Dakota Fanning in her Southern-Gothic movie "Hounddog," out Friday. "I think we live in a society that doesn't nurture and honor women's sexuality for the beautiful and inspiring gift that it is," says Kampmeier, sounding more earth-mothery by the minute. "Instead of nurturing it, we commercialize it and repress it. I wonder why a girl like [Fanning's character] Lewellen, who's in the blossoming of her body, spirit and sexuality, is seen as asking for it?" It's been a weird couple of years for Kampmeier, whose movie has been, well, dogged with scandal since the day it wrapped in Wilmington, NC, in July 2006. A local conservative radio talk show got its hands on the script that contained a scene in which Fanning's 12-year-old character is assaulted and raped by an older boy.

Cue the knee-jerk outcry.

Various "family values" groups, without having seen the movie, petitioned for legal action against the director and Fanning's family and agent for coercing the young actress into what they imagined to be a disgraceful performance. One child-actor advocate, reported Premiere magazine, wrote an essay in which he argued that "pretending leads to reality. Kids feel it, live it, express it. Children can't shrug it off."

Where was Fanning in all this? Defending the film alongside the director.

"She's been incredibly supportive," Kampmeier says. "Her team was like, 'Nobody touches this script. You do not take this scene out.' "

Furthermore, says the director, anyone who knows anything about filmmaking knows the scene didn't happen the way it plays in the film (which, incidentally, is extremely brief and nongraphic).

"The rape scene was shot so technically," says Kampmeier. "I mean, I think Dakota put it best. She said, 'It's just a movie.' "

Plus, as the director points out, nobody ever levels the same charges at the incredible violence one can find in any number of major movies out right now. "When someone's head gets blown off, why are people not saying, 'Oh my God, did their head really get blown off?' " she says. "It's so uninformed."

The paradox for Kampmeier is that the controversy has brought her film into a much brighter spotlight than she'd imagined - for better or worse. "In my mind it's just a small, personal film," she says. "I wrote it from my heart, with the hope that it would one day touch someone else's heart."

"Hounddog" - the rest of it, aside from that scene - centers on Fanning's character, a young girl trapped in abject poverty with an abusive, alcoholic father (David Morse) and a disciplinarian, Bible-thumping grandmother (Piper Laurie). Her only solace is impersonating Elvis Presley, which she does with uncanny talent.

"For me, the film is about many things," says Kampmeier. "Motherlessness, art, finding your true voice.

"But the thing that I think it's most about," she says, "is articulated by a character in the film - he talks about taking that which can poison you and turning it into something powerful and good. Which is what we, as artists, if we're lucky, get the opportunity to do." (Celluloid Elvis, Source: Sara Stewart, New York Post)

Watch the "hounddog" film trailer (Source: Canmag)

"It's Only Love" The SEXtended REmix (News, Source: Amber Smith/Elvis Zone; YouTube)

Best of the Best Gold "Live": Due for re-release on October 10, 2008 is the "Elvis Live" compilation from the "Genre" series. This edition comes with a paper slipcase in the "Best Of The Best Gold" series. Tracklisting: See See Rider (18.02.1970) - Johnny B. Goode (24.08.1969) - Mystery Train / Tiger Man (24.08.1969) - In The Ghetto (25.08.1969) - Suspicious Minds (22.08.1969) - The Wonder Of You (18.02.1970) - Polk Salad Annie (18.02.1970) - Walk A Mile In My Shoes (19.02.1970) - You've Lost That Loving Feeling (13.08.1970) - I Just Can't Help Believin' (13.08.1970 - 2003 Sony Remaster) - Bridge Over Troubled Water (11.08.1970) - You Gave Me A Mountain (16.02.1972) - An American Trilogy (17.02.1972) - Never Been To Spain (16.02.1972) - What Now My Love (14.01.1973) - Burning Love (14.01.1973) - My Way (14.01.1973) - Steamroller Blues (14.01.1973) - How Great Thou Art (20.03.1974) - Unchained Melody (24.04.1977) (News, Source: Elvis Club Berlin/Elvis News)

Elvis 3D DVD: Due for release on October 11 is the DVD "Elvis 3D". This DVD contains nine classic performances of Elvis Presley in 3D. The DVD is region free. (News, Source: Elvis Club Berlin/Elvis News)

More tin can releases from Sony BMG: SONY / BMG will re-issue two albums in their "collectable tin" format on October 10, 2008. The titles of these 3 CD box-sets are "Greatest Hits" and "Christmas Peace". (News, Source: Elvis News)

DVD Review - "Elvis: Return To Tupelo": Is this new documentary release the best Elvis DVD of 2008 or a poor relation to the excellent Elvis '56? The answer is a resounding YES for Elvis: Return To Tupelo as the best Elvis DVD release of 2008.

Read EIN's detailed review of what is a stunning release!! With its fascinating blend of interviews and archival material Elvis: Return To Tupelo is one DVD you should not miss. (DVD Reviews, Source: EIN)

Aussie chart update: On this week's ARIA Music DVD Top 40, Elvis: The King of Rock 'n' Roll falls one place to #9, while a re-entry on the chart is Elvis: The '68 Comeback Special at #36. (News, Source: ARIA)

Rare 1950s magazine about Elvis!

Elvis Exhibition to rock Sussex: Essential Elvis UK has joined forces with Coopers Jewellers in order to offer a unique six-week exhibition showing a number of impressive items once owned by the King himself, Elvis Presley. The exhibition will be seen at Coopers Jewellers in Hove, East Sussex from September 20th (next Saturday) and will include twenty artefacts consisting of clothing, jewellery, items from Graceland and various paperwork.

Elvis worn "Girl Happy” shirt

Elvis’ Racquetball Racket

Elvis’ US Army Belt

A Personally Signed Cheque

Elvis’ Kenpo Karate Pin

Various Police Badges

A White Concert Scarf

Elvis’ Gold Sunglasses

A Genuine TCB Necklace

Andrew Hearn, editor & publisher of Essential Elvis magazine will be at the store every Saturday during the exhibition to meet fans wishing to attend. Please show your support for this terrific venture. For information call Andrew Hearn - 01903 525917 / Simon Cooper - 01273 739000 (News, Source: FECC/Andrew Hearn)

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Elvis demonstrates iTunes 8: Apple Tuesday rolled out a new version of its iTunes music player application, highlighted by the addition of a playlist-generating feature. The changes to both the iTunes application and the online digital content site kicked off Apple's "Let's Rock" event, in which CEO Steve Jobs walked reporters through an assortment of changes to his company's music offerings.

Last day to enter! - Win an Elvis CD courtesy of Sony BMG: As part of EIN's Sony BMG Elvis month we are pleased to offer readers the opportunity to win one of 6 Elvis CDs courtesy of Sony BMG. The CDs are: Elvis The Complete '68 Comeback Special (4CD set); Elvis Greatest Hits (Steel Box Collection); and Elvis Presley Original Album Classics (5 album set). To enter simply click this link and tell us the name of your favorite Elvis album. It couldn't be easier. The competition closes on 14 September 2008. Visit EIN's "August is Sony BMG Month" page

Elvis saves the day: It always seemed to me that this is the hardest part of the year. Labor Day is past and school is back in session: we are all meant to be serious again after the frivolities of summer. I keep trying to sneak out to see films, but real life keeps thrusting its face forward.

Thus I missed two chances to see "Burn After Reading" already this week and I am now unsure when I'll get to it because the weekend is booked up. Such are the challenges of modern life.

But if frivolity is your bag, check out the Parkway in Minneapolis. Not only is there an Elvis Presley Festival over the next four weekends, showing "Jailhouse Rock," "Viva Las Vegas," "GI Blues," "Love Me Tender," and King Creole," but tonight and on the 27th there is an Elvis Tribute Open Stage where anyone can get up and present their very best Elvis. Details at the Parkway site (Celluloid Elvis, Source: Movie Natters, Euan Kerr)

What has happened to the documentary film "The Truth About Elvis"?: EIN has received a number of enquiries about Adam Muskiewicz's documentary film. Muskiewicz announced it would be released around the 30th anniversary of Elvis' death but despite teaser screenings and a film trailer nothing has been heard about The Truth About Elvis in nearly a year!

Muskiewicz has not responded to several email enquiries by fans and EIN. EIN accepts it is notoriously difficult and often expensive to arrange distribution of an independent film, but it is simply not good enough to leave interested fans in the dark after promising so much. (Conspiracy, Source: EIN)

Elvis Presley: Released September 11, 2008 is the budget double CD simply entitled "Elvis Presley". It was released on the Proper Records label. (News, Source: Elvis News)

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New tribute song: Elvis... Just To Have You Back Again (Source: Anne Maree Burgess)

Listen to "A Song for Elvis" from Anne Maree

LeeAnn Rimes beats Elvis: LeAnn Rimes finishes ahead of Elvis Presley, Kenny Rogers and Shania Twain in a new historical list that celebrates the anniversary of Billboard magazine’s 100-position pop chart. The magazine has come up with The Billboard Hot 100 All-Time Top Songs, and LeAnn’s version of "How Do I Live" ranks at No. 4 on the list, the top showing for a single by a country act.

She’s hardly alone. Elsewhere on the pop list are Johnny Horton’s "North To Alaska," No. 28; Kenny’s "Lady," No. 47; Shania’s "You’re Still The One," No. 66; and a pair of songs by Country Music Hall of Famer Elvis Presley: "Are You Lonesome Tonight?," No. 81; and "It’s Now Or Never," No. 92.

Other songs with country ties abound. Debby Boone’s "You Light Up My Life," a Top 10 country hit in 1977, occupies the No. 7 position; country newcomer Jewel’s pop single "Foolish Games"/"You Were Meant For Me" is at No. 15; Whitney Houston’s remake of Dolly Parton’s "I Will Always Love You" ranks at No. 68; and Ray Charles’ cover of Don Gibson’s "I Can’t Stop Loving You" finishes at No. 98.

Charts prior to August 1958 featured fewer than 100 singles, so the Hot 100’s debut came after such earlier Elvis hits as "Heartbreak Hotel" and "Don’t Be Cruel." Landing at No. 1: Chubby Checker and "The Twist." (News, Source: Great American Country)

'The George Klein Memorial' - Elvis Week 2008: The second EIN spotlight on the highlights of Elvis Week - the George Klein Memorial. It includes tributes and memorials by the following: Knox Phillips, D.J Fontana, Dr Nick, Dean Nichopoulos, Ray Walker, Larry Geller and Marion Cocke. Susan Graham has worked on several Elvis projects, including the production of the DVD '200 Cadillacs' and is a regular visitor to Memphis. This is the second part of a special EIN series looking at the highlights of this year's Elvis Week. (Spotlight, Source:EIN/SusanGraham

Elvis' The Ultimate Remix Album Mp3 DVD: Over 260 Elvis tracks remixed. Surely more painful than root canal treatment! While I agree that a good remix or two for the dance-floor can make a positive impact with the dance-generation (see the first review of 'A.L.L.C' remix) , flooding the market with remix rubbish makes a mockery of Elvis' legacy. Most remixes still sound like those awful 1980's Stars-On -45 embarrassments. From the fabulous magazine 'Elvis The Man And the Music' I can only agree with Gordon Minto who says... "Now whatever your view about the validity or artistic merit of such releases, rest assured this one is a real STINKER - a clear and shameless ploy to exploit his legacy for commercial gain. It's a wanton case of musical vandalism - a travesty of his legacy. And don't for one moment fall for the seductive line about it `encourages more young people to seek out Elvis'. Sorry but this is sheer BS! It comes down to this: would you paint a silly moustache and glasses on the Mona Lisa? No, of course not. So why sanction messing with Elvis' music?" (News, Source;EPGold)

If in Australia or N.Z. click here to order through EIN. The postponement of the release of 'In Person' is said to be due to an overwhelming workload at Sony. Ernst Jorgensen has stated that "'In Person' will now come out around December 1st, together with a soundboard from February 1973 at The Las Vegas Hilton (if anybody knows about any source for great photos from this 1973 season for this FTD release – please let us know). If possible FTD will try to ship these two titles at the end of November. (News, Source: PeterHaan/TheMan&HisMusic)

Elvis' Desk For Sale!: Elvis' office desk is for sale on Ebay for current bid US $25,000.00 with the reserve not met. Following on from our previous news stories about Elvis' Meditation Garden windows (see below) designer Bernard Grenadier's son is selling Elvis' original desk. As reported: "Elvis commissioned Bernard to build a futuristic wood desk for him to use in his study. A desk that would represent Elvis’s style and the grandeur of Graceland. Elvis wanted a desk that brought to life his creative vision of how electronics would be married into our everyday world. The desk would hold a radio, television, 8 track player, telephone directory and calendar to mention several of Elvis’s futuristic ideas. Elvis and Bernard drew out on a piece of paper their thoughts for this desk. Bernard took the drawings to RCA and asks them to build a television that would fit into the design. At the time RCA said that it was impossible. When Bernard went back to Elvis with the response from RCA, Elvis stated impossible is not an option! Bernard went back to RCA again and convinced them to rethink their decision. Bernard told them “money was no problem” - so the vision began to take form. RCA took the diagram to their research and development department to build the small television to fit into the console of the desk. Elvis was so pleased with the design of the desk that he requested not one but two desks to be built. He used and enjoyed both desks for a long time. Elvis decided after Bernard had turned down many gifts over the years from motorcycles to cars, that he would give Bernard the second desk as a token of their friendship. Bernard accepted and treasured the desk for many years.

'The Insiders Conference' Elvis Week 2008: Highlights of the Elvis Week 2008 Insiders Conference. Susan Graham has worked on several Elvis projects, including the production of the DVD '200 Cadillacs' and is a regular visitor to Memphis. In this special EIN series she has contributed three reports looking at the highlights of this year's Elvis Week. This first part looks at The Elvis Insiders Conference and includes some fascinating interviews with the following: Comedian Sammy Shore, The Imperials, EPE owner Robert Sillerman, Jerry Schilling and Joe Guercio, Susan Henning, Celeste Yarnell, Edward Faulkner and Francine York. (Spotlight, Source:EIN/SusanGraham)

You Tube interview: Lamar Fike on his upcoming memoir & movie In Part 3 of Lamar's video interview he talks about his closeness to Elvis' Mother and how his new book will detail more about the crazy world of knowing Elvis in the fifties. Added to YouTube today!

'Then Sings My Soul' new import CD: Soon to be released is the latest production from the “Rainbow Records” label. Here is thier press release: With our 5th release we fulfill a special fan request.The upcoming 2 CD set will contain a never before released show from the Sahara Tahoe – Engagement ’76 – it is the Midnight Show of May 7, 1976. There were several reasons why this show was chosen for a release. First of all – it had to be unreleased. Of course, the show should contain some interesting, unusual material, maybe a short version of a seldom performed song? Another important aspect was to find a tape that has a listenable, decent sound quality for a release. During our research we learned that many people did not expect Elvis to do a show with more than 60 minutes. Well, bad luck for those who tried to tape the show on a 60 minutes tape, because Elvis was on stage more longer than that. So we have restored the Midnight Show performance and added the missing part of “It’s Now Or Never” and “Can’t Help Falling In Love” from the Dinner Show from the same date. You will be surprised about the sound because both sources are very similar. CD also features the rest of the Dinner Show excluding band introductions due to time. Content: There are some real beauties in this set. The first one is “How Great Thou Art”. Actually, Elvis sang the song twice this day - both versions have this special gospel feeling Elvis was able to create. This inspired us to use an excerpt of the lyrics and name this release “Then Sings My Soul”. Then we have “That’s All Right” which demonstrates like “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” that Elvis was able to play acoustic guitar, of course. He performed a rare version of “The Wonder Of You” (1976!!!) during the Midnight Show and during the Dinner Show he entertained the audience by singing “It’s Midnight”, now known as the last live version ever. The 3rd release by Rainbow Records was called “Vegas Variety – Vol.2” and featured the Midnight Show December 11, 1976.

'Elvis - and Quebec, a love story' CD: A new official release from Sony/BMG Canada. This CD is for the province of Quebec. It features a picture disc, and the booklet is all in french. It includes 16 tracks from Heartbreak Hotel through to the A.L.L.C remix. (News, Source; Barry Mclean)

The historic Overton Shell re-opens as Levitt Shell: The renovation of the ‘Overton Park Shell’ in Memphis is just finished and the location re-opened last week as the ‘Levitt Shell’. The opening concerts attracted 1000 people each night, way more than the 600 people the organization expected. Until October 5, each Thursday till Sunday will have a free concert. The season will re-start in May 2009. The Overton Park Shell was the first place Elvis gave an announced concert. During the last decade, the site was abandoned and at some point, the city planned to tear down the whole place. Thanks to the necessary funds, they were able to restore the location and it is now safe for the future. The name ‘Levitt Shell’ is given by clothier Mortimer Levitt who started a foundation in the early 60s in New York to promote free concerts in open air theaters. Across the USA, you’ll find many of those ‘Levitt Theaters’ nowadays. (News, Source: ElvisMatters)

"Hounddog" film due for limited US theatrical release on 19 September: Synopsis: In late 1950's rural Alabama, young Lewellen lives with her stern religious grandmother, Grammie, but spends most of her time with her much-adored, wild and rough Daddy in his falling down shack. Lewellen is deeply talented and finds comfort and safety, as well as a place to put her hurt and rage, in the music of Elvis Presley, even though Charles, the wise groundskeeper of the mansion down the road, tries to convince her that "there is more to fill out that emptiness with than just Elvis." Lewellen and her closest friend, Buddy, are caught in a shed during a heavy rainstorm. During the storm Daddy is struck by lightning and the event leaves him incapacitated as an emotional and mental child. Grammie is convinced that Daddy was stricken down by God to punish Lewellen for her alleged sins with Buddy. Lewellen becomes Daddy's caretaker and their dysfunctional relationship becomes even more pronounced, Lewellen

So, Buddy tricks Lewellen into dancing and singing like Elvis for Wooden's Boy in exchange for tickets he has to the concert. During the impersonation, Wooden's Boy attacks Lewellen and leaves her innocence behind. Lewellen's descent into the cycle of abuse and her own pursuit of self-destruction begins. It is only Charles who can see the spirit in Lewellen and save her soul. He teaches her to use music, "the Blues," to turn her tragedy into a gift. Rated R for disturbing sexual assault of young girl and brief sexuality (News, Source: Yahoo Movies)

Excellent page on the Eagle's Nest, Memphis: James V. Roy has added a wonderful page to his Scotty Moore site full of information and very rare photos about the Eagle's Nest nightclub in Memphis. Check it out (News, Source: Amber Smith)

Elvis' Mercedes for sale: EIN has a feeling of deja vu. From the eBay auction listing: This is definitely a piece of Rolling Art probably better described as Rock and Rolling Art. Elvis purchased this car and titled it in his name. One of the very few cars that were ever titled and registered in his name. This is the one with the famous “Lightning Bolt” in gold leaf with TCB logo on both front doors. I have copies of the original bill of sale, Elvis’s registration card, the Retail Delivery Statement from Mercedes, the title and the finance contract..Yes. The “King” financed this car placing $5500.00 down payment and 36 payments of $344.44 per month. Amazing! I also have a copy of a great photo of Elvis in a tuxedo getting into the Mercedes.

Win an Elvis CD courtesy of Sony BMG: As part of EIN's Sony BMG Elvis month we are pleased to offer readers the opportunity to win one of 6 Elvis CDs courtesy of Sony BMG. The CDs are: Elvis The Complete '68 Comeback Special (4CD set); Elvis Greatest Hits (Steel Box Collection); and Elvis Presley Original Album Classics (5 album set). To enter simply click this link and tell us the name of your favorite Elvis album. It couldn't be easier. The competition closes on 14 September 2008. Visit EIN's "August is Sony BMG Month" page

Update on Elvis Presley Christmas Duets album (see earlier story on 4 Sep): Sony BMG will release two versions of the 'Elvis Presley Christmas Duets' CD on October 14, a very limited deluxe version in a cardboard sleeve where the face of Elvis opens up off the package and standard Jewel case version.

Controversy over planned extension of music copyright law in the EC: A leading academic has warned that the European Commission "wilfully ignored" studies that it paid for whose conclusions disagreed with its policy, and that the Commission is misleading the European Union Council, Parliament and citizens over copyright extension.

Professor Bernt Hugenholtz is the director of the University of Amsterdam's Institute for Information Law (IViR) and has written an open letter (pdf) to Commissioner Jose Manuel Barroso that is starkly critical of its controversial policies on copyright extension.

The Commission last month published its intention to extend the term of copyright on sound to 95 years after the recording has been made, giving the player of an instrument on a recording a similar length of protection as that given to the writer of the music.

Hugenholtz accused the Commission of "wilfully ignoring scientific analysis and evidence" in its policy-making process.

The IViR conducted two in-depth studies on this and related issues which were commissioned and paid for by the EC, but found that none of the evidence of arguments raised in those papers seemed to be used as the basis of EC policy.

The fact that those studies had no perceptible impact on decisions is unacceptable, said Hugenholtz.

"The Commission's obscuration of the IViR studies and its failure to confront the critical arguments made therein seem to reveal an intention to mislead the Council and the Parliament, as well as the citizens of the European Union," he wrote.

He said that the studies were robust pieces of work that have had an influence on others' deliberations.

"Since their completion and publication, both studies have attracted considerable attention in scholarly circles and among stakeholders and continue to play an important role in informing the current debate on the future of copyright law and policy in the EU," said Hugenholtz in his letter. "It comes therefore as a complete surprise to us to discover that our studies have been almost entirely ignored in the [Commission's] so-called 'forward looking package' on Intellectual Property."

Hugenholtz points out that a number of studies carried out by industry and other groups with an interest in the outcome of the debate were referenced by the Commission's policy documents, but that his institute's independent academic studies were not. The studies rejected the arguments in favour of term extension.

The professor said that the Commission has been inconsistent about whether it believes that independent analysis and advice is necessary.

"Amazingly and quite misleadingly, the Explanatory Memorandum states that '[T]here was no need for external expertise'. This is patently untrue, as the terms of reference of the Recasting Study, which were drawn up by the European Commission … expressly asked for the examination of, among other issues, the need for a term extension and the issue of co-written musical works," he said.

Hugenholtz conceded that academic work should not necessarily immediately become governmental policy, but said that it should at least be taken into account.

"We are, of course, well aware that several conclusions of the IViR studies do not agree with the policy choices underlying the Commission's proposals. And we are certainly not so naïve as to expect that the recommendations of an academic institution such as ours, however well researched and conceived they may be, will find their way into the Commission's policies in undiluted form," he said.

"What we would expect however is that our work, which was expressly commissioned by the policy unit in charge of these proposals, be given the appropriate consideration by the Commission and be duly referenced in its policy documents, in particular wherever the Commission's policy choices depart from our studies' main recommendations."

The issue of the extension of copyright in sound recordings has been a controversial one. In 2006 the Gowers Review of Intellectual Property published its report in which it recommended that sound recording copyright protection be kept to the existing 50 year term. (News, Source: The Register)

In search of (the canine) Elvis: To say that I am appalled by the article on the front of the newspaper covered by Kelly Scott in the Aug. 26 Ledger Dispatch ("Forgotten friends") is an understatement.

A year ago, I was told by Animal Control that I had too many dogs - at that time five. All were loved, nourished, given full veterinarian care, all spayed and neutered, shots, grooming at Petco on a regular basis, protected, allowed to run outside on my fenced-enclosed property as well as the run of my home. Most slept in my bed or on a few of the sofas.

I had to relinquish one, a beautiful black Labrador named Elvis. Of all the dogs, he was the one that was surely adoptable. He was born in one of the premier kennels in Louisiana. He had papers but was neutered, as I do not believe in breeding animals. I can only say that the one species that never will turn on us, licks our hands, and covers our backs is routinely left behind, starved, beaten, abandoned and worse. What this says about our own species speaks volumes.

After one of my older dogs collapsed and died, I tried to track down Elvis. It was impossible. It tears me apart that my beloved dog is lost to me. Thank you for your efforts in bringing the crimes against the most loving and valiant to the attention of Amador County. (News, Source: Mary Lou Molina, Pine Grove, Amador Ledger Dispatch)

Madison Square Garden concert released as DVD "The 1972 New York Experience": The all new label Phoenix XP Production announces their very first release: The 1972 New York Experience. It runs 180 minutes and features footage from all four Elvis concerts at Madison Square Garden. - The complete Saturday afternoon show for the first time on DVD - The complete press conference in single or multiple screen - Slide show with many rare and unseen pictures - And so much more... EIN notes that of course the concert is the home-video footage that most serious Elvis fans have seen before but Phoenix XP Productions promise a total upgrade and improvement to what we already have. Comparing their advertised images it appears that the footage unfortunately hasn't been taken from the original 8mm film - and looks remarkably like what has been issued on bootlegs in the past. But please check the trailers for yourself However they do have a very detailed website and we like the banner "They didn't do it so we had to do it." C'mon Warners/EPE! While these alternate versions sell you are missing the marketing opportunity for the official Extended 'On Tour' DVD. The publicity says, "See the Garden concerts as you have never seen them before" Go here for all the info & samples www.phoenix-xp.co.nr (News, Source;Phoenix/EIN)

Elvis 1976 scarf for sale on Ebay: For auction on Ebay is a silk concert scarf worn by Elvis on stage while performing in Las Vegas on December 7, 1976.  Elvis gave the scarf to fan Rosemarie Leech while singing "Teddy Bear," during the midnight show.  This was Elvis' final engagement in Las Vegas. Rosemarie Leech afterwards attached a personal note to the scarf noting the show date and venue where she received it. Current bid is US $355.00 with the reserve not met. Click here for details and to bid. Only 2 days to go. (News, Source;ElvisInfoNet/RobV)

'Heartbreak Hotel' is a Finalist For official Oklahoma Rock Song: Elvis' "Heartbreak Hotel" has made the short list for the official rock song of Oklahoma! The reason is that the song was written by an Oklahoman, Mae Boren Axton. Also included in the list is another song that Elvis performed Three Dog Night's “Never Been to Spain” written by her son Hoyt Axton. Ten songs have been chosen as finalists, all written or sung by Oklahomans. Other contenders include Leon Russell's "Home Sweet Oklahoma"; "After Midnight" by J.J. Cale; and "Do You Realize?" by the Flaming Lips. Voting will continue at www.oklahomarocksong.org through Nov. 15 and the winning song will be announced during the next legislative session. (News, Source;EIN)

Elvis' Christmas Album 2008 re-release: This is the cover art for the upcoming Hallmark 'Elvis Christmas Album' CD which is due September 15, 2008.     (News, Source ElvisNews)

2008 'Comeback Special' Promo CDs: Here are the covers of the '68 Comeback Special Radio Sampler' - and how cool is that cover which includes producer Steve Binder's signature! The CD features 14 tracks. On the right is the also the cover of the 1 hour 'Comeback Radio Special' with featured introductions by country singer/songwriter Laura Cantrell. With thanks to super-collector Barry Mclean. (News, Source; Barry Mclean)

Jailhouse Rock Assistant Director Robert E. Relyea - new book: Fans will be able to learn more about Elvis in the fifties when LA's 'Book Soup' store hosts Jailhouse Rock Assistant Director Robert E. Relyea on September 10 to talk about his new book. Producer Robert E. Relyea, a fifty-year veteran of the movie industry and assistant director on Elvis Presley's most iconic film, Jailhouse Rock, will appear at a world famous book store on the Sunset Strip this month to promote his new action-packed autobiography. The two-hour signing will take place 7 p.m. Wednesday, September 10 at Book Soup, 8818 Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood. Relyea will be signing copies of 'Not So Quiet On The Set: My Life In Movies During Hollywood’s Macho Era', which promises to become a must read for anyone who yearns to know the "real" stories about the movies.

Marty Lacker adds more to 'The story behind the Meditation Garden': EIN thanks Marty Lacker who tells us some more fascinating facts to add to yesterday's story...   " As many fans know Bernard Grenadier was my brother in law and he and my sister, Anne, designed and built the Meditation Garden when Elvis requested he build something beautiful and peaceful for him to go to, to just think and meditate when he needed to. That area had originally been a broken down birdbath and the columns that were there were all rotted and peeling.  The grass was weed ridden. My Brother in law got the stain glass from Spain, the curved wall that held them was made of bricks made in Mexico and the small statues that were in the Garden came from Italy. He turned that small bird bath into that huge fountain that featured fourteen different sprays as well as the colored lights and the torch pots placed around the fountain. The first night Elvis saw it when we had just returned from Hollywood he wanted to see it by himself, when he came back into the house he had tears in his eyes.  He hugged my brother in law and sister and told them he had never seen anything as beautiful.

'Elvis Presley Christmas Duets' CD now available for pre-order: Christmas must be nearly here as the new Elvis duets album is already available for pre-order from shopelvis and will be released on October 14, 2008: They state that pre-orders will ship on or around October 10, 2008. This first-ever Elvis Duets album pairs Elvis with some of Country Music's top female vocalists singing Christmas favourites. Track Listing: 1. Blue Christmas with Martina McBride 2. I'll Be Home For Christmas with Carrie Underwood 3. Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane) with LeAnn Rimes 4. Santa Clause Is Back In Town with Wynonna Judd 5. Silent Night with Sara Evans 6. White Christmas with Amy Grant 7. Merry Christmas Baby with Gretchen Wilson 8. O Little Town Of Bethlehem with Karen Fairchild and Kimberly Schlapman of Little Big Town 9. Silver Bells with Anne Murray 10. O Come, All Ye Faithful with Olivia Newton-John Bonus Tracks 11. The First Noel (2008) Elvis Presley 12. If I Get Home On Christmas Day (2008) Elvis Presley 13. Winter Wonderland (2008) Elvis Presley (News;Source;EPE)

"Elvis taught me how to sing": Classical music superstar, Helmut Lotti, is on record as saying "Elvis taught me how to sing"! Born in 1969, Lotti is one of the revered 'modern' stars of the classical music genre. He started his career as an Elvis impersonator, when as a 19 year old, he placed second in a talent show singing a soulful rendition of "My Boy". By 1995, Lotti expanded his repertoire, embarking on seminal recordings in the classical genre backed by impressive orchestral arrangements. This was the start of a phenomenal career which today sees Lotti called the "Belgian Prince" and "new Elvis" by Flemish media. Like his hero, Lotti has never been afraid to record new genres, and his songbook ranges from opera to Latino to crooner to Elvis! It was in 2002 that Lotti released his tribute to the King (which is available from Amazon.co.uk). The 16 track album ranges from Love Me Tender and One Night With You, to Kiss Me Quick, In The Ghetto and Suspicious Minds. (News, Source: Amber Smith)

The Gospel According to Elvis DVD/CD: The producers of the "Pure Diamonds" four CD set released a new four disc set entitled "The Gospel According To Elvis". It contains three CDs with nearly every gospel recoring - including out-takes plus a few unreleased bits and pieces - and one DVD with a well know documentary about Elvis and his gospel music. The set comes with a book including pictures and text about Elvis' gospel music. The sound quality should be very good accoording to the update. (News, Source: Elvis News/Elvis Unlimited)

Latest issue of Elvis The Man and His Music: IN THE LATEST ISSUE (No 81) OF ELVIS THE MAN AND HIS MUSIC MAGAZINE: The 1961 Memphis Charity Concerts Charlie McCoy Interview Part 1 Circling The Spectrum '74 It's Midnight...or is it the Dinner Show? Part 3 (and updates) CD, DVD & Book Reviews Subscribe to this legendary Elvis magazine

The story behind the Mediation Garden!!   The Elvis Glass tells EIN:   We would like to invite you to go to www.theelvisglass.com for details on an incredibly interesting discovery concerning the Meditation Garden at Graceland.     Please use the link on the site to view the report on NBC Memphis affiliate, WMC-TV on 8/9/2008.

Jerry Reed dies: Jerry Reed, a singer who became a good ol' boy actor in car chase movies like "Smokey and the Bandit," has died of complications from emphysema at 71. His longtime booking agent, Carrie Moore-Reed, no relation to the star, said Reed died early Monday. "He's one of the greatest entertainers in the world. That's the way I feel about him," Moore-Reed said. Reed was a gifted guitarist who later became a songwriter, singer and actor. As a singer in the 1970s and early 1980s, he had a string of hits that included "Amos Moses," "When You're Hot, You're Hot," "East Bound and Down" and "The Bird." In the mid-1970s, he began acting in movies such as "Smokey and the Bandit" with Burt Reynolds, usually as a good ol' boy. But he was an ornery heavy in "Gator," directed by Reynolds, and a hateful coach in 1998's "The Waterboy" starring Adam Sandler. Reynolds gave him a shiny black 1980 Trans Am like the one they used in "Smokey and the Bandit."

He first established himself as a songwriter. Elvis Presley recorded two of his songs, "U.S. Male" and "Guitar Man" (both in 1968). He also wrote the hit "A Thing Called Love," which was recorded in 1972 by Johnny Cash. He also wrote songs for Brenda Lee, Tom Jones, Dean Martin, Nat King Cole and the Oak Ridge Boys. Reed was voted instrumentalist of the year in 1970 by the Country Music Association. He won a Grammy Award for "When You're Hot, You're Hot" in 1971. A year earlier, he shared a Grammy with Chet Atkins for their collaboration, "Me and Jerry." In 1992, Atkins and Reed won a Grammy for "Sneakin' Around."

Reed continued performing on the road into the late 1990s, doing about 80 shows a year. "I'm proud of the songs, I'm proud of things that I did with Chet (Atkins), I'm proud that I played guitar and was accepted by musicians and guitar players," he told the AP in 1992. In a 1998 interview with The Tennessean, he admitted that his acting ability was questionable. "I used to watch people like Richard Burton and Mel Gibson and think, `I could never do that.'

"When people ask me what my motivation is, I have a simple answer: Money." (News, Source: AP)

CD releases: The "Elvis In Deutschland" double CD set will be released in a standard, "Friedberg" and "Bad Nauheim" edition on September 26, 2008.

Due for release on the same date is the doule CD budget compilation "The Many Faces of Elvis Presley" on the Membran label.

Sony BMG will re-issue the CD "Elvis Live" on October 10, 2008 in Germany.

In France "Christmas Peace" will be re-issued again on November 3, 2008. (News, Source: Elvis News)

Elvis' fingerprints to be auctioned: Fans of Elvis Presley are to get a once in a lifetime opportunity to own his fingerprints at auction in London this week. The unusual piece of rock'n'roll memorabilia will go under the hammer at the Idea Generation Gallery.

The prints are the only surviving set from The King in existence, according to reports, although it is unclear how much money they will fetch.

Pieces from John Lennon, Ronnie Wood and Marilyn Monroe are among the other lots entered into the "It's More Than Rock And Roll" auction on September 4. (News, Source: Dotmusic/ Visual: Amber Smith)

Inside Blue Hawaii boxset: Elvis Unlimited has announced their latest "Inside" boxset release. This year’s fall, we can expect a new release in the popular ‘Inside’ box sets series, according to Elvis Unlimited. "Inside Blue Hawaii" will be the fifth movie (after Double Trouble, GI Blues, Love Me Tender and Roustabout) that gets an exclusive and detailed look behind the scenes, combining a book, DVD and vinyl single – all packed in a deluxe collector’s box. (News, Source: Elvis News/Elvis Matters/Elvis Unlimited)

Elvis live at Del Webb's Sahara Tahoe website: It's about time to spread the word about the unique content of the new book by Sue McCasland  "Elvis live at Del Webb's Sahara Tahoe - World's Best Kept Secret". Go to the new page which is now available and see more pictures from the book and read about the content. Click here to read all about the content There are several ways of getting your copy of the book. Contact your local Elvis dealer or order it at your favourite book store (ISBN 978-3-00-024816-0). If you are a Non-U.S. resident please click here to order the book online. If you are a U.S. citizen or want to order a signed copy from author Sue McCasland write a mail to rosmc@aol.com. (The book will be shipped from the U.S.) (News, Source: EP Gold)

Influences on the King: Captain Marvel Jr.

What factors shaped the young Elvis and his later style as a performer?

There were a number of particularly important elements, which over time, made Elvis who he was as an adult.

Exposure to the "Captain Marvel Jr." was one such factor...........it was a powerful influence in his on stage and personal style as evidenced by the comic book character's lightning bolt, cape and hair style.

Lisa Marie's floral tribute to her father (Elvis Week 2008): Last month EIN published the following photographs of Lisa Marie Presley's floral tribute to her late father on the 31st anniversary. Amber Smith sent us the photos but did not indicate their original source.

Subsequently, Michelle Rosencrantz contacted EIN to tell us she was had taken the photos. Michelle is President of

Elvis Presley's Sweet Sweet Spirit Fan Club in Toledo, Ohio. Her club has a website and their email address is:
elvis-presley@bex.net

The Sweet Sweet Spirit Fan Club website is a great one with an active messageboard; section on Ed Bonja's photos, an Elvis history and a lot more.

Win an Elvis CD courtesy of Sony BMG: As part of EIN's Sony BMG Elvis month we are pleased to offer readers the opportunity to win one of 6 Elvis CDs courtesy of Sony BMG. The CDs are: Elvis The Complete '68 Comeback Special (4CD set); Elvis Greatest Hits (Steel Box Collection); and Elvis Presley Original Album Classics (5 album set). To enter simply click this link and tell us the name of your favorite Elvis album. It couldn't be easier. The competition closes on 14 September 2008. Visit EIN's "August is Sony BMG Month" page

Part 1		Lamar Fike's 'Video Blog' Interview on YouTube... Fike: An Uncommon Journey (book & film)	Part 2