(Book Review) Elvis The Army Years Uncovered (Trina Young): EIN thanks our good friend, Kees Mouwen (administrator of the best Elvis blog on the Internet....Elvis Day By Day), for allowing us to publish his informative review of Trina Young’s latest book.

Despite what some fans may think, Elvis’ Army years were eventful, full of interesting and sometimes sad, incidents.
Those two years in the Army were important in shaping Elvis as a person.
As Kees notes in his enlightening review, in her book, Trina Young “goes behind the superficial public relations story of Presley’s army years”.

Read Kees’ detailed review

(Book Review: Source: Kees Mouwen)

Easton Press Signed First Editions – A Collector’s Paradise: For those fans interested in collecting rare editions of Elvis books, one option is the Easton Press signed limited edition series.

They are gloriously appointed limited editions including leather bound covers, gold lettering, printed using specially milled acid paper, and gilded page edges.

Want to have a book personally signed by Priscilla?

Read EIN’s spotlight article to discover more and view these collectable editions..

(Spotlight, Source:Nigel-P/ElvisInformationNetwork)

Latest release from Paul Belard – Elvis June 1956: Paul Belard’s latest Elvis photo-journal, Elvis June 1956, will be published shortly. Its 220 pages are filled with background information on Elvis; activities that month, rare archival material (reviews, press ads, etc) and hundreds of photos including several colorized images showing Elvis on stage wearing an impressively stylish red jacket.
From the book Preface:
... The 1956 juggernaut is picking up strength during this month. On the 3rd, Elvis gave a concert in Oakland. The next day, he flew to Los Angeles to rehearse his second ap pearance on the Milton Berle show which took place on the 5th. Elvis’ legendary rendition of “Hound Dog” delighted the fans, and enraged the crit ics. One described his exhibition as “tinged with the kind of animalism that should be confined to dives and bordellos.” Another explained with a hint of racism that Elvis “makes up for vocal shortcomings with the weirdest and plainly sugges tive animation short of an aborigine’s mating dance.” The reaction of the Catholic church was predictable. In an article titled “Beware of Elvis Presley”, it wrote: “If the agencies (TV and others) would stop handling such nauseating stuff, all the Presleys of our land would soon be swallowed up in the oblivion they deserve.” It did not happen! Concerts followed through the 10th.

 .. The following day, Elvis was back in Memphis. On the 16th, he

appeared on Wink Martindale’s “Dance Party” show on WHBQ TV. He did not sing, but promoted the July 4 charity show in Memphis. On Tuesday, June 19, Elvis attended “colored night” celebrating Juneteenth, the old est known celebration honoring the end of slavery in the United States. By choosing to attend the black-only event in one of the most racially divided cities in America, he demonstrated his close affinity with African-Americans. It led local newspapers to report that Elvis had violated segregation laws when he attended the Memphis Fair grounds amusement park on ‘“colored night” only. On the 21st, he embarked on a 7-day tour of Georgia, North and South Carolina. The month culminated with a rehearsal for his appearance on the Steve Allen show, which would take place on July 1st, and a concert in Richmond on the last day of the month.

'Elvis June 1956' will be available from Amazon sites soon.
(News, Source: Paul Belard)

(Mini Book Review) 'The Elvis Film Collector An Introductory Guide to Collecting UK Film Memorabilia 1956-1977' (Harry Carrington): Already in its 2nd printing, this is an impressive large hardcover release with 282 pages, which you will browse through time and time again. With great page design offering neat balance and placement between text and image, and good use of white space, it offers a treasure trove of narrative, photo, and many rare archival treats. While largely descriptive, the narrative is interesting and offers the occasional surprise, such as this in the Fun In Acapulco section:

... Elvis' records had been banned from Mexico's radio in 1957 and for complete sale in shops in 1959 after Ernesto Peralta Uruchurtu, a powerful politician had spread the rumour that Elvis had said he “found the country distasteful as a whole and would’ve preferred to kiss three African Americans than a single Mexican.”

Elvis had not said this, and it was later revealed it was the politician’s revenge for Elvis not agreeing to do a private concert for his daughter’s fifteenth birthday.

There is also background information on both each film and its soundtrack, UK screening dates, lobby cards, press ads, Cinema and Press Information Sheets, and some great film posters. Each of Elvis’ narrative and concert films has its own chapter and there are also sections on the 1975 Grand

Elvis books rank well on Amazon Children’s Rock Music (CRM) Top 100 Sales Chart: On the 19 September Amazon CRM Top 100 chart, Elvis had eight titles. Highest placed was the softcover book, Who Was Elvis Presley? (Geoff Edgers) at #2 (The Story of Rock was #1). This release is part of a “Who is/was/were?” series and others in the Top 100 Chart included editions for the Beatles, Rolling Stones and Bruce Springsteen. Geoff Edgers’ book also ranked at #34 for its Kindle edition and #46 for the Audible Audiobook release.  At #32 on the chart was an allegedly “Official” 2022 Elvis Calendar (as it is independently published, EIN has a suspicious mind about it being an “official” calendar), #56 was Elvis is King (Jonah Hill - hardcover), #73 Elvis and the Talent Show (Charles Weaver - softcover), #76 Elvis The Story of the Rock & Roll King (Bonnie Christenen – hardcover), and at #96 was the Kindle of edition of Elvis is King (Jonah Winter).

EIN found it a major positive that Elvis books are appealing to a young audience.

With Christmas fast approaching they could make a novel addition under the Christmas tree or in the Christmas stocking.

(News, Source: EIN/Amazon)

Trina Young talks to EIN: Music journalist, Trina Young’s latest Elvis book, Elvis: The Army Years Uncovered: Behind the Scenes of the Two Years That Changed The King of Rock and Roll's Life, is now available.

Trina recently took time out to speak with EIN’s Nigel Patterson about her new book, her earlier Elvis books, the concerning issue of plagiarism of her works, and more.

Read Trina’s full interview

(Interview, Source: ElvisInformationNetwork)

New book release - From Elvis in Japan (David Ward): The latest detailed and visually attractive Elvis “discography”, is David Ward’s, From Elvis in Japan. Covering Elvis LP (vinyl) releases in Japan between 1956 and 2018, the e-book is full of interesting information about each release and stunning images of the LP covers and discs. The author’s description well covers what his book offers:
..... In 1987, a Japanese Elvis Discography was published, containing colour photographs of nearly every one of his record releases: LPs, EPs and singles. While I have spent many enjoyable hours thumbing through that book, it is far from perfect: it only shows front covers and there is very little information on each release. My goal with this book is to pick up where the Japanese Elvis Discography left off, although I have limited the book to LPs only.

David Ward’s discography contains information on 131 Elvis LP’s released in the “land of the rising sun”, a complete song index, and “value add” sections such as How to Read Elvis’ Name in Japanese, Japanese Albums with US Artwork, and English Lyrics (the translations are often outrageously funny!).

EIN will publish a comprehensive review of From Elvis in Japan and interview with David Ward shortly.
(News, Source: EIN/David Ward)

Sale of 'Elvis Presley Fan Club of Great Britain' UPDATE: Last month (25 August) EIN posted news that the famed British fan club was up for sale at “auction”. Britain’s Daily Mail posted this news update: For, despite his huge popularity in Britain, and strenuous efforts to get him to perform here, Elvis never returned. Regardless, the enthusiasm of the British fans has never been in doubt — and none has been more devoted than Todd Slaughter, the owner and organiser of The Official Elvis Presley Fan Club of Great Britain for nearly six decades. Only now, at the age of 76 and in poor health, has Todd decided to retire: as soon, that is, as he has found the right person to become custodian of Elvis's legacy in Britain.
This week, the fan club, comprising stock, database, office equipment, social media accounts and more, was put up for sale by Omega Auctions in Merseyside, which specialises in music memorabilia.
But the bidding reached only £32,000 — nowhere near the estimate of £50,000 to £100,000 — so Todd's hunt for a successor goes on. There were several keen buyers, but when they realised that running the fan club was a full-time job taking up at least 40 hours a week, they melted away.
Before the internet, joining a club was the only way that devotees could keep up to date with and interact with their idol. But now, although the website gets 50,000 hits a week, these don't translate into the money needed to keep the club going.
At its peak, soon after Elvis' death in 1977, the club had 36,000 members. Now, there are just 3,000.
You don't have to be a jumpsuit-wearing Elvis fanatic to join. Most members are 'normal people', says Todd. 'They don't dress as Elvis or walk around with quiffs.'

The club holds regular conventions around Britain where fans gather at a holiday park for a week of Elvis-themed fun.

Todd Slaughter met Elvis for the final time in June 1977 when he took 200 British fans to what turned out to be Elvis' last two concerts, in Cincinnati and Indianapolis.
Todd told him, 'You are going to have to come to England to see your fans,'
'One day, I will,' Elvis assured him.
He presented Todd with an award for having been president of the UK fan club for ten years.
Elvis noted, 'Both the Colonel and I appreciate what you do for my English fans. Enjoy the show, Todd.'
Todd noticed that Elvis looked tired and pale. Six weeks later, he heard the scarcely believable news: Elvis had died from heart failure on August 16, 1977, aged just 42.

Go here to Official Elvis Presley Fan Club of Great Britain website
(News, Source;DM/EPGB/ElvisInfoNet)

MRS ‘Las Vegas International Presents Elvis – September 1970' PREVIEW: MRS will release the most anticipated 'new' ELVIS concert of the year with 'Las Vegas International Presents Elvis – September 1970' on 24th September 2021.
The formats include a 2CD deluxe that will feature a new previously unreleased soundboard from 2nd September 1970 and a bonus CD, that will cover the final rehearsals at the International Hotel on August 10th before the start of the summer festival.
In September 1970 Elvis was still excited to be back on stage and performing for his fans.
Newspaper reviews of his concerts wrote about the excitement and fun Elvis was having back on-stage.
This brand new Las Vegas show truly captures that 1970 excitement.
Other formats include 2 separate 180-gram LPs of the above and a very limited-edition cassette of the September show.
The accompanying 40-page booklet of the CD deluxe includes rare photographs and memorabilia taken during these engagements along with introductory notes.
Now go HERE to Juno records to PREVIEW 20 seconds of every track - It is a true gem and will be hard to beat as THE new release for 2021.

“Mod Squad’s” Peggy Lipton and Elvis: In the late 1960’s, b was a pop culture icon, lighting up the TV screen as Julie Barnes in the hit and hip, TV show, The Mod Squad, with Michael Cole and Clarence Williams III.

EIN’s Nigel Patterson recently read Ms. Lipton's engaging autobiography, Breathing out (St. Martins Press, 2005, ISBN-13: 978-0312324131). Ms Lipton (who died in 2019) was married to famed record producer, Quincy Jones, from 1974 to 1989. In her absorbing autobiography, she devotes 11 pages to her romance, circa 1971, with the “sacred monster of rock ‘n’ roll”, Elvis.

Her account is respectful and honest, its ending recorded as:
'His way of life scared me. I didn’t want to go that far ever again. The people around him, the drugs, the claustrophobia, the insanity before and after his performances – combined with my own obsessive use of cocaine – had all been disorienting and disturbing. A mistake. In my mind the weekends blurred together into a series of distorted and scary images. I didn’t care about any of it. The only thing I cared about was his beautiful soul, but I wasn’t going to be able to save him – nobody was. Besides, I had problems of my own. Who was I to save anybody?'...
(News, Source: ElvisInfoNet)

Elvis Whiskey launch - Grain & Barrel’s Elvis Presley whiskeys: The South Carolina-based spirits producer, Grain & Barrel, has sourced and distilled a line of whiskies in Elvis’s home state of Tennessee. The 45% alcohol per volume whiskey’s will be available online in selected USA states.
They were created in collaboration with Elvis Presley Enterprises, the company set up by the singer’s wife to manage his assets and estate. The expressions will roll out across selected off-premise outlets in the US in the coming weeks.

Though based in South Carolina, Grain & Barrel sourced and blended the expressions in Presley’s home state of Tennessee.
“Given our expertise within premium whiskey, the Elvis expressions are a natural fit for Grain & Barrel Spirits,” said the company’s founder, Matti Anttila. “We look forward to launching the brand, which is sure to be a highly sought-after collector’s item.”

(News, Source: Rhodri Morgan, JustDrinks.com)

Black market Elvis recordings in the U.S.S.R. (RIBS/Bones/x-ray records/roentgenizat): One of the most unusual and least known genre of illegal Elvis records are those clandestinely produced in Russia and its associated eastern European countries from the 1950s to early 1970s. As western popular music was banned in the USSR (home production of western recordings were officially banned in 1958), the only way to hear new American and British songs was to have an original record smuggled in and individual copies made.
Variously known as music on ribs, bones music, and x-ray records, they flourished on the black market. Each record was individually pressed on discarded x-ray films sourced from waste bins at Russian hospitals.
Bones records are highly collectable and due to their fragility, are very hard to find.

EIN contributor, Ruben Beekmans, is lucky enough to have a number of Elvis RIBS records in his collection and wrote a fascinating article for EIN about them.
(Spotlight, Source:Ruben Beekmans/ElvisInfoNet)

'Elvis: Fort Worth, Texas 1974' FTD in-depth Review: This FTD double-pack features two concerts from Elvis’ third tour of 1974, both performances from Father's Day in Fort Worth, Texas, June 16 1974. Elvis performed four shows at the 14,000 seater Tarrant County Convention Center in Fort Worth Texas. These were the first four shows of Elvis' Tour #11 so he was ready to rock. Reviews included, "Elvis put on one sharp, uptown and professional show. Wrapped skintight or loosely white bellbottoms and waist-length jacket. Elvis had the show in the palm of his hand".
In fine humour, at the evening show Elvis jokes that the whole band are from Texas... “John Wilkinson from Waco Texas, Ronnie Tutt from Dallas Texas, Duke Bardwell from Abilene Texas, Charlie Hodge from Decateur Texas, Voice from Nashville Texas and Joe Guercio with the all-Texas choir band! And I’m from Tupelo, Texas."
Go here as Elvis soundboard super-collector Geoffrey McDonnell & EIN's Piers Beagley give you the complete low-down on this new FTD double-pack ....
(FTD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

Elvis The Man And His Music #133 Out Now: EIN's favourite Elvis music magazine September 2021 issue is out now

Articles include..
+ Larry Strickland Interview
+ Truly, Madly, Legendary!
+ That Reminds Me…
+ Presley Press – 1965
+ Shout It Out!
+ CD, DVD, Blu-ray & Book Reviews

Go here to NDT for subscriptions and to purchase

(News, Source;NDT/ElvisInfoNet)

- Who were the German girls that Elvis dated?
- Where were the secret concerts that Elvis gave in Germany?
- What happened between Elvis and a famous German actress?
- What incited multiple death rumors while Elvis was in Germany?
- Who was Elvis dating when he met Priscilla?
- Did Elvis have more than one close call with death in Germany?
- How much danger was Elvis in during his military service?
- Who did Elvis meet at the nightclubs in Paris and Munich?
- What lifelong hobby did Elvis start in Germany?
- What special treatment did Elvis get while he served in the army?
- Who spilled the beans that Elvis and Priscilla were dating?
The book also includes an 8-page photo section and an Elvis Army Timeline.

Go here for more info and to purchase.
(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

New glut of Wikipedia/Internet sourced books: Several years ago more than 50 cheap Elvis book titles were published and available from Amazon and B&N (see EIN article: Exposing the Amazon Elvis Rip-Off?).
Each title was based on publicly available information on Wikipedia and the Internet generally.
After a quiet period it appears a new group of books have been released with similar content. Most in both softcover and ebook (Kindle/Nook) format.
Bizarrely, the Kindle editions are listed with a different author name!
Unlike the earlier Internet sourced books, the new releases are at least much better written particularly the Elvis-Beatles books.
 The titles are:
    The Day The Beatles Met Elvis Presley: Ultimate Classic Rock (Kathleen McMurdo)
    When The Beatles Met Elvis Presley Elvis Presley Biography (Michael Duensing) (softcover)
    When The Beatles Met Elvis Presley Elvis Presley Biography (Drucilla Dreibelbis) (Kindle)
    Elvis and The Beatles: What They Thought Of Each Other (Anderson Cowder) (softcover)
    Elvis and The Beatles: What They Thought Of Each Other (Aplpha Weisberger) (Kindle)
    Elvis and Me: The True Story (Tamie Hoffhines)
    Elvis Memories: The Real Elvis Presley (Cristal Krivonec) (softcover)
    Elvis Memories: The Real Elvis Presley (Dallas Makarewicz) (Kindle)
    Elvis Presley: Songs, Death & Daughter, Vaughn Maturi (softcover) - features cover image which is not Elvis
    Elvis Presley: Songs, Death & Daughter, Ray Bequillard (Kindle) - features cover image which is not Elvis

Each book is priced under US$15.00.

The three Elvis-Beatles books all contain 251 pages AND the content in each is the same!
Similarly, the other three titles contain 132 pages and their content is the same.
The Elvis-Beatles books are a reissue of the Trina Young 2018 release, 'Elvis And The Beatles: Love And Rivalry Between The Two Biggest Acts Of The 20th Century' (which is a very good book) - EIN will have an interview with Trina Young shortly.
EIN’s capsule review in 2018 was that the book is well written and features a significant amount of interesting material, for example:

When Elvis was receiving criticism in 1956, [Sophie] Tucker came to his defense saying, “I hear he’s a real nice boy. Some people may not like his style and may not listen again, but they should hear him once and make up their own minds.”
Sophie Tucker sent Christmas cards to Elvis, and Elvis and The Colonel reciprocated. In addition, The Colonel sent several telegrams wishing her well on upcoming performances.

Happy Birthday James Burton: It was only a few days ago that TCB guitar legend James Burton was regaling Elvis fans at Elvis Week with his still-cutting, chickin-pickin', guitar riffs.

His stunning guitar solos on 'Funny How Time Slips Away' (Nashville Marathon 50th Anniv concert)  along with the brilliant 'Steamroller Blues' (Elvis In Concert) were highlights of the Elvis Week 2021 concerts.

Incredibly this musical legend celebrated his 82nd Birthday last Saturday, August 21st.

Back in 2003, nearly 20 years ago, EIN's Piers Beagley coincidentally called James Burton up for an Interview - again on his birthday.

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO JAMES" as Elvis would sing!

(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

James Burton opens up to EIN: The TCB Band ventured downunder for a successful string of shows in December 2003.

Before their visit to the sunny shores of Australia, guitar maestro James Burton chewed the fat with EIN's Piers Beagley.

He talked about his times with Elvis, early days motor-cycling with Ricky Nelson, Eddie Cochran & Gene Vincent and much more.

Go here to find out more..

(Interviews, Source;ElvisInformation Network)

EIN Interview with Mike Stone: Mike Stone has had a long and successful career in athletics, in the entertainment business, as an author, sports instructor, bodyguard and personal fitness trainer.
Mike Stone was also a key figure in the emotional roller-coaster that described Elvis and Priscilla Presley's lives in the seventies.
In this exclusive EIN interview Priscilla's ex-partner, karate champion and author talks about his amazing life, including...
- Meeting Elvis and Priscilla
- Hawaii, Elvis and Karate
- Being Phil Spector's bodyguard
- Sitting next to John Lennon recording
- Priscilla and karate
- Fans blaming him for Elvis' marriage split-up
- Elvis putting a "Hit" out on him
- Finding peace in the Philippines
- His new autobiography

EIN was delighted to be able to finally talk with the man and find out more. EIN's Piers Beagley asked the questions..

(Interviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

The softcover version of the book is available from multiple Amazon sites.

The hardback version can be ordered from 'Blurb.com' here.

Signed editions can also be published from the author

Photo right shows Kees Mouwen presenting the very first copy to his daughter outside the Danish Memphis Mansion

Go HERE to ElvisDaybyDay for all the order information - as well as preview pages

(News, Source;EDbyD/ElvisInfoNet)

ELVIS Forever 2021: Four decades after his death, Elvis Presley still reigns unchallenged as the King of rock 'n' roll, the greatest superstar the world has ever known.
All the tabloid media reports and old rumours can't change the fact that there never was anyone like him and there never will be an other again.
Elvis was the most extraordinary ordinary man.
Joe Esposito would be with Elvis to the very end...
EIN looks at Joe Esposito's final memories and ELVIS Forever, forty-four years on.

(Spotlight, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

“Nothing really affected me until I heard Elvis. If there hadn’t been an Elvis, there wouldn’t have been a Beatles” - John Lennon

"It was like Elvis came along and whispered some dream in everybody's ear, and somehow we all dreamed it."
- Bruce Springsteen

"When I first heard Elvis' voice, I just knew that I wasn't going to work for anybody; and nobody was going to be my boss. Hearing him for the first time was like busting out of jail."
- Bob Dylan

"Elvis Presley's death deprives our country of a part of itself. He was unique, irreplaceable."
- President Jimmy Carter

Watch Candlelight Vigil REPLAY: Tonight the world honours the life and legacy of Elvis Presley and observe the annual Candlelight Vigil at Graceland on August 15.
The annual Candlelight Vigil and to celebrate the life and legacy of the King of Rock 'n' Roll.
The ceremony for the 43rd anniversary is organized as always by the Elvis Country Fan Club.
You can now watch the vigil replay anytime

WATCH REPLAY via LiveStream

(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

'Elvis: Back In Nashville' Vinyl tracklist: RCA/Legacy Recordings will release Elvis: Back In Nashville, the definitive presentation of Presley's May-June 1971 Nashville studio sessions on Friday, November 12.
The 4 CD collection presents 82 pristine Studio original recordings, free of overdubs.
Graceland is also offering an exclusive 2LP 12" color vinyl collectors pressing of 'Elvis: Back In Nashville'.
A standard 2LP 12" vinyl version of the album will also be available.
The vinyl tracklist features the best selection of outtakes and remixed original recordings
Elvis: Back In Nashville Graceland 2LP 12" vinyl edition is available for pre-order from EPE here. US$24.98

Go HERE to 'Elvis FTD / SONY News 2021' for the tracklist
(News, Source;EPE/ElvisInfoNet)

'I'm Leavin'' Take 1 - Promo New Mix: Don't miss out on this first official audio promo for the new 'Elvis: Back In Nashville' deluxe set.

Engineer Matt Ross Spang brings out the delightful ambience of Elvis and the band as they rehearse and then try out the exquisite June 1971 single 'I'm Leavin''

The song made #23 in the UK charts but only #36 in the US.

GO HERE TO YOUTUBE.

Hopefully the rest of the sessions glow in this golden light!

(News, Source;ElvisInfoNet)

(Book Review) Elvis November 1956: As fans, we do not always realize that what we think we know about Elvis’ life, happened in short periods of time. Paul Belard’s visual biography series illustrates how hectic Elvis’ life and rise to fame was.
The latest release in Paul Belard’s series of photobooks, covering just one month in 1956, highlights just how much happened.
It was a busy time, Elvis spent time with his girlfriend Natalie Wood and buddy, Nick Adams on his new Harley Davidson. He did a small tour in the south with Scotty, DJ and Bill making stops in Toledo, Cleveland, Troy and Louisville, Kentucky. And managed to squeeze in a 10-day holiday with Bitsy Mott, Gene Smith and Richard Dougher to Las Vegas, returning to the New Frontier Hotel.

EIN’s Nigel Patterson and Elvis Day By Day’s Kees Mouwen joined forces to provide a detailed review of the narrative, visual and archival highlights from what was a a very busy month for the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.

(Book Review, Source:EIN & EDayByDay)

‘Elvis - The First Engagements 1969-70’ In-Depth Review: MRS's new triple-CD set ‘Las Vegas International Presents Elvis - The First Engagements 1969-70’ was released last month. The CDs contain three captivating performances drawn from Elvis’ first two engagements at the Las Vegas International in August 1969 and January thru February 1970.
For the first time ever, these soundboard recordings (formerly in mono) have been remastered and remixed to true stereo with outstanding expertise using the most sophisticated technologies to achieve the best possible sound.
The accompanying 40-page booklet includes rare photographs and memorabilia taken during these engagements along with introductory notes.

EIN's Nigel Patterson and Piers Beagley check out this new collection and discover just how good these concerts sound in stereo - a perfect concert package for any Elvis fan.

(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

Book Review: 'Elvis The King of the Rings Vol 1': Author-researcher Paul Belard has released the latest installment in his ongoing Elvis day-by-day biography series, visually (and narratively) documenting Elvis Presley's life and times. Unlike previous volumes, this book doesn’t cover a specific period of time, it covers a “shiny” part of our man's life, his love for big and glittery jewelry, specifically rings.
Elvis liked expensive things: cars, motorcycles, clothes, and jewelry. His jewels befitted a king. He wore sumptuous pendants hung on heavy gold chains; huge lavish rings dripping of rubies, sapphires, lapis lazuli, and emeralds; bracelets of gold and precious gems.
The singer Robert Goulet described Elvis’ penchant for generosity: “I remember once we sat together backstage for two hours. And he was a charming, delightful man. And at one point I said, “That’s a beautiful ring you have there.” He said, “You like it?” I said, “It’s beautiful!” He took it off his hand and put it on mine. He gave me his ring.”

Belard's new book features 254 pages dedicated to Elvis’ love of rings.
The photos include close-ups of so much glorious "Bling" along with stories of Elvis wearing them on-stage and even where they ended up.
Go here to read our review by Kees Mouwen and Nigel Patterson
(Book Review, Source:DayByDay/ElvisInformationNetwork)

'Jay Thompson and Elvis Presley' Spotlight: In April 1956 Disc-jockey Jay Thompson, from Breckenridge radio station KSTB, interviewed a young Elvis Presley while he was touring through Texas on a string of one-night stands. In that 1956 interview Elvis interestingly revealed that he was previously training to be an electrician, that his first movie would be The Rainmaker and that he did not know Bill Black or Scotty Moore before their Sun session.

In 1982 Elvis fan Scott Wheeler befriended and interviewed Jay Thompson about the experience. Although Jay never actively participated in Elvis-related events or productions in later years he also never sought notoriety for the interview either. However we believe it's important that Jay Thompson be well remembered for his valuable contribution to the history of Elvis.

Go here to our special Spotlight - plus Elvis' Wichita Falls Interview - by Scott Wheeler / Piers Beagley...
(Spotlight; Source;SW/ElvisInformationNetwork)

'Summer Festival 1970: The Rehearsals' In-Depth Review: MRS's new triple-CD set 'Summer Festival 1970: The Rehearsals' was released last month.
The CDs contain rehearsal highlights from one of the most memorable periods in Elvis’ career - his captivating performances at The International Hotel Las Vegas in the summer of 1970. With remastered audio and accompanying 40-page booklet the package is aimed at the general public, plus Elvis collectors who could not afford last year's FTD fan club deluxe release.
Elvis’ glorious rehearsals on 24 July at RCA studios are the real key to this release. Twenty seven classic performances and with Elvis not only rehearsing the familiar songs we would all come to know from the MGM movie but also songs he would never perform on stage.

EIN's Nigel Patterson and Piers Beagley check out this new collection and discover some neat surprises along the way.

(CD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

'The Best Use of Elvis Music in Recent Movies': In the first two decades after his untimely death it was rare to hear an Elvis song in a new feature film - and certainly not in a TV advert.
EPE / BMG seemed reluctant to licence Elvis' music which is strange considering the amount of sub-standard Elvis products they were pumping out to fans. But everything changed in 2002 with ‘ALLC' hitting number one all around the world .
So with Baz Luhrmann's ELVIS biopic in production it's a good time to revisit some of the best use of Elvis music in recent movies.
Film producers have discovered that using ELVIS in recent movie soundtracks can be a powerful and positive idea.
From the cartoon Lilo & Stitch to the blockbuster Blade Runner 2049 and the Elton John biopic Rocketman, the use of Elvis songs in the soundtrack can add that something special.
EIN lists Movie blog Screenrant's recently posted Top Ten and also adds EIN readers favourites.
Visit our EIN spotlight and also send us YOUR THOUGHTS on your favourite use of ELVIS in modern films.
(Spotlight, Source;SR/ElvisInformationNetwork)

'Elvis Day By Day 2020' Book Review: 2020 is a year none of us will forget. But as we all tried to adapt to a "new normal" the wonderful world of Elvis Presley provided a very fine distraction. 2020 brought us several great Elvis releases on CD and vinyl (lots of it!), many new books, movie releases on DVD, Blu-ray and in cinemas around the world. We had to say good-bye to friends from the Elvis world and there was the Covid-19 pandemic, which had a huge impact on the Elvis world too.

Everything Elvis Presley from 2020 is captured in this comprehensive, day-by-day yearbook. Fully illustrated, with new in-depth reviews, articles and interviews on the main - and odd-ball - releases of the year. The good, the bad, the funny and the sad, and even the news and reviews you may have missed. All packed in one comprehensive book to revisit 2020 as it happened.

The book is.. "Impeccably written, in an attractive and easy to read composition, it is peppered with facts accompanied by high quality B&W and color pictures. It demonstrates in detail that Elvis is still present and influential."
Go here to Elvis author Paul Belard's full review..
(Book Reviews, Source;PB/ElvisInfoNet)

(Book Review) Inventing Elvis – An American Icon in a Cold War World (Mathias Haeussler): The latest academic examination of the Elvis Presley story explores his relationship in the context of a rising trans-national youth culture and Cold War politics. Assistant Professor Mathias Haeussler has written a powerful account of how Elvis’ role in each of the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s was an evolutionary one, reflecting the broader socio-cultural and political changes of each decade.
The subject matter is diverse, ranging from Elvis’ image as a threat to the morals of youth in the 1950s (in a sense mirroring the threat of communism), to the cultural imperialism reflected his 1960s movies (while American culture and political influence was spreading globally), and Elvis’ decline in the 1970s (at a time when America was reeling from its own excesses including the disastrous Vietnam War).

Read EIN Nigel Patterson's in-depth review

(Book Review, Source: ElvisInformationNetwork)

(Book Review) Elvis@Argentina 1963-1969 (Carlos Ares): The second volume in Carlos Ares’ series of “coffee table” books detailing Elvis’ reception in Argentina is another high quality production. With a great balance between informative text, colorful images and impressive archival artefacts, it is a worthy inclusion in any fan’s Elvis library.

It is available in English and Spanish text editions.

Read EIN Nigel Patterson’s detailed review

(Book Review, Source:ElvisInfoNetwork)

'Walk A Lonely Street' Book Review: Recently published Tony Plews, 'Walk A Lonely Street: Elvis Presley, Country Music & The True Story of Heartbreak Hotel' is a unique volume that tells the tale of Elvis Presley’s rise to fame as viewed through the lens of his era-defining first hit record, “Heartbreak Hotel”. Presented as a series of consecutive short stories, it offers a new perspective on Presley’s musical and cultural achievements, and reveals the true and dramatic saga behind the breakthrough song that changed the world.
In EIN Piers Beagley's detailed review he discovers that.. the true joy of this book is Tony Plews’ delightful and engaging writing style. His detailed research and his mix of facts and imagination blend together to create an emotional narrative that really draws the reader in. At times he also adds a nice British, somewhat droll, sense of humour that can make you laugh out loud. A totally enthralling musical journey, Tony Plews writes with a truly engaging, colourful and passionate style. If your love of Elvis is based upon his amazing musical legacy then this is the book for you....
Go here to EIN's 'Walk A Lonely Street' in-depth review
Coming Wednesday.. EIN interviews author Tony Plews
(Book Review, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

(Book Review) 'Technicolor to Black & White' (Jean-Marie Pouzenc): The latest ‘coffee table” multi-media” (book, CD and 10” vinyl) set from Jean-Marie Pouzenc continues his history of producing fan pleasing, high quality, releases!
Focusing on Elvis’ film career in France it is a wonderfully expressive record of its subject and offers a neatly balanced package between its narrative, visual, archival and audio elements.

Elvis didn’t incarnate almost supernatural heroes, he was you and he was all of us. He played an everyday guy, an ordinary character with a job....(Jean-Marie Pouzenc)

Read EIN’s detailed review by Nigel Patterson

(Book Review, Source: ElvisInformationNetwork)

(Book Review) From Elvis in Memphis (Eric Wolfson): The 150th volume in the popular Bloomsbury Academic 33 1/3 series of music history and criticism books is Eric Wolfson’s From Elvis in Memphis (due out on 12 November).
EIN’s Nigel Patterson recently sat down and submerged himself in what is the first (and long overdue) extensive examination of any Elvis album.
What Nigel found was a deeply considered, strongly written, and thought provoking analysis of what many regard as Elvis’ finest album.

.. "In 1968, Elvis Presley was worse than dead – he was irrelevant. After helping to establish rock and roll as a cultural force and becoming its biggest star in the 1950s, he now found himself eclipsed by the music. New artists like the Beatles and Bob Dylan blew the mid-1960’s rock landscape wide open.. Elvis, once the epitome of the young and exciting rock and roll star, had become old and stale.
From the moment that From Elvis in Memphis begins with a rock and roll Odysseus returning home after “a little while”, the album refuses to settle. Over the course of the record, people drive eight-wheel locomotives, ride in long black limousines, and soar like beautiful birds...."

Read Nigel’s detailed 3,000+ words review of From Elvis in Memphis

(Book Review, Source:ElvisInformationNetwork)

‘TTWII 50th Anniversary Collectors Edition’ FTD Book Review: FTD's most expensive set ever published, David English and Pal Granlund bring the complete background story of 'Elvis: That's The Way It Is'. Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the movie's 1970 release, this ultimate collector's edition includes two hardback books, eight cds with over 450 minutes of music, including newly discovered unreleased performances.
With access to 2,000 original negatives and 35mm slides, restored and repaired, many of which have never been seen before, the book also contains items from the MGM and RCA archives including paperwork, documents, memos and recording information.
Two books, 600 pages, plus all the MGM recorded rehearsals - including 70 tracks officially unreleased.
FTD's most expensive set but with the vast majority of the rehearsals already out on bootleg, can it really be worth the US$270 plus postage. Initially Sold Out and already into its first reprint what makes it so desirable?
EIN's Piers Beagley investigates and discovers plenty .. Go here to our 6000 word review including plenty of extracts and stunning images.
(FTD Reviews, Source;ElvisInformationNetwork)

'What was Elvis searching for?' EIN Spotlight: The question is raised – but never answered – in the title of HBO’s recent absorbing, imperfect documentary 'Elvis Presley: The Searcher'.
At the start it seems clear what the teenage Elvis was searching for – an escape from the oblivion of poverty in the American South. Yet his quest was cultural as well as financial.
Later Elvis read obsessively, seeking out such books as The Impersonal Life, Joseph Brenner’s guide to self-discovery and Kahil Gibran’s book of fables, The Prophet. In his copy of Gibran’s tome, Elvis jotted down the line: “A singer can sing his songs but he must have an ear to receive the song”.
So what exactly was Elvis searching for? In this fascinating EIN Spotlight respected author Paul Simpson takes a close look at this all important question which, for some reason, was basically ignored in the recent HBO documentary..

(Spotlight, Source;PaulSimpson/ElvisInformationNetwork)