A teaser on a new Follow That Dream book has been announced by the Norwegian Flaming Star fan-club. The book is entitled "Elvis Presley Rock Around The Bloch!" and is written by David English and Pål Granlund. More information when available.
Henry Strzelecki Died
Tragic news out of Nashville where where prolific and beloved bass player Henry Strzelecki has passed away after being struck by a vehicle while out for a walk Monday, December 22nd. Strzelecki experienced severe injuries including major head trauma in the accident, and was in a coma over the holidays. He eventually passed away from the injuries on December 30th. He worked with Elvis Presley on the "Harem Scarum" sessions and the overdub on "Tomorrow Night" in 1965.
(Source: Flaming Star)
Due for release from Delta Entertainment on January 2, 2015 in Germany is the DVD “Elvis Presley Jubiläums Edition”. The DVD is region free and has a running-time of 212 Minutesn.
(Source: Amazon)
Elvis Presley is listed 3 times on the Dutch Mid-prioce Album chart. "The Classic Christmas Album" remains steady at #3, "The Essential" drops from #14 to #20 and "ELV1S 30 #1 Hits" is a re-entry at #45 in it's 150th week on the chart.
The CD "The Real... Elvis" dropped from #64 to #72 on the Italian Album chart.
(Source: Dutch Charts / Federazione Industria Musicale Italiana / The King's World)
Some new information on the content of the new book titles from Joe Tunzi's JAT Publishing have been announced. The first book is due March 1, 2015.
The book "The Definitive Vinyl Artwork of Elvis Presley 1956-1977" will be an Elvis keepsake forever. This will be the perfect companion piece to the elaborate "Elvis Sessions IV The Recorded Music of Elvis Aron Presley 1954-1977."
The "Vinyl Artwork" book will contain most of the original photography for the albums, singles and extended plays released in Elvis Presley's lifetime. Many of the photos will be the full gorgeous images as they were originally photographed with many never before seen in their entirety. Many of these photos are considered to be some of the greatest photography on Elvis Presley. Pictured with each image will be the original release it was used for. However, the book goes far beyond that, as it also covers the alternate artwork, letters and documents, some of the original artboards and layouts that were worked on, and details examining the photographer, date, and place where they were photographed.
Lastly, it will also investigate the changes and corrections such as the use of reversed photographs and the use of photos that were altered on the original art. In essence, "The Definitive Vinyl Artwork of Elvis Presley 1956-1977" will not just be a photo journal, but rather a historical record on how this artwork was created. The book surely will be a work of art featuring the greatest artist of all time.
The book "From St. Paul To Fort Wayne" will be a photo journal covering Elvis' appearances in St. Paul, Minnesota in October, 1974 and his appearance in Fort Wayne, Indiana on October 25, 1976. There will be roughly 120 unpublished photos.
(Source: FECC)
I wish you all a Merry Christmas and hope you and your family have a happy and wonderful time.
For more Elvis Christmas visit the great Echo's Of The Past website here.
Volume 78 in the German “Elvis Sammlung” collector’s series has been released. This volume contains the usual magazine, memorabilia reproductions en a mini-poster for “Memories” / “Charro”.
Love Songs
Due from the Not Now (H’Art) label on February 6, 2016 is the 3 CD set “Love Songs”.
Tracks:
Can't Help Falling In Love - It's Now Or Never - She's Not You - The Girl Of My Best Friend - I'm Coming Home - Fever - Shoppin' Around - That's When Your Heartaches Begin - A Fool Such As I - One Night - Don't Ask Me Why - I'm Left,You're Right,She's Gone - Blue Hawaii - I Beg Of You - A Mess Of Blues - Love Me - Don't Leave Me Now - Don't - I Forgot To Remember To Forget - How's The World Treating You? - Such A Night - Are You Lonesome Tonight? - Have I Told You Lately That I Love You? - Good Luck Charm - Love Me Tender - Wooden Heart - True Love - Don't Be Cruel - There's Always Me - Starting Today - In Your Arms - Loving You - Treat Me Nice - Anyway You Want Me - Stuck On You - Playing For Keeps - Young Dreams - I'm Counting On You - Young And Beautiful - One-Sided Love Affair - (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear - Wear My Ring Around Your Neck - Your Cheatin' Heart - I Want You,I Need You, I Love You - Surrender - Tonight Is So Right For Love - A Big Hunk O' Love - Return To Sender - What's She Really Like - It's A Sin - Gently ´- Pocketful Of Rainbows - I Gotta Know - Doin' The Best I Can - My Wish Came True - As Long As I Have You - Lover Doll - Just Tell Her Jim Said Hello - I Was The One - I Love You Because - I'm Gonna Sit Right Down And Cry (Over You) - Suspicion - I Need You So - How Do You Think I Feel? - Too Much - I Need Your Love Tonight
(Source: Elvis Aktuell / Amazon)
The latest Billboard Album Charts:
- 'It's Christmas Time' drops from 53 to 64 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Chart for w/e 3rd January, 2015; remains at 6 on the Catalog Album Chart; rises from 12 to 11 on the Holiday Album Chart and drops from 49 to 58 on the Top Album Sales Chart.
- 'Merry Christmas, Love Elvis' drops from 132 to 154 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Chart; drops from 21 to 22 on the Catalog Album Chart; rises from 27 to 24 on the Holiday Album Chart and drops from 5 to 6 on the Country Catalog Album Chart.
- 'The Classic Christmas Album' drops from 105 to 126 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Chart; drops from 12 to 19 on the Catalog Album Chart and drops from 3 to 5 on the Country Catalog Album Chart.
- 'Heart And Soul' rises from 17 to 14 on the Country Catalog Album Chart.
- 'Blue Christmas' remains at 22 on the Holiday 100 Chart; remains at 22 on the Holiday Airplay Chart and drops from 24 to 25 on the Holiday Digital Songs Chart.
- 'Here Comes Santa Claus' remains at 83 on the Holiday 100 Chart.
- 'He Touched Me' - The Gospel Music Of Elvis Presley (Vols. 1 and 2) drops from 7 to 11 on the Music Video Sales Chart.
- Elvis drops from 58 to 64 on the Artist 100 Chart.
European Charts
The Warner Home Video 6-DVD-Box “The Elvis Collection” climbed from #42 to #31 on the UK DVD Chart.
(Source: Elvis Information Network / The King's World)
The classic movie “Flaming Star” will be released on blu-ray on March 4, 2015 in Japan.
(Amazon Japan / Elvis Club Berlin)
According to a post by Eddie Pennington, Chip Young died last night. From his Facebook post:
"He played on so many hit records that there is no way facebook would hold all of it. He came to Nashville with Jerry Reed, and was close to him until Jerry passed. He recorded with Elvis from 1965 until he passed away. He played the guitar part on Dolly Parton's Joline. He did the thumbpicking on Vern Gosdin's Way Down Deep Inside My Soul. He produced many records and Billy Swan's I Can Help was one of Chip's."
Another one of the greats gone. R.I.P. Chip.
In the picture from the recording-sessions at RCA’s Studio B, Nashville Tennessee, June 1970 Chips Young is sitting below, second from the left.
Starting in May 1966, his first session playing for Elvis was of all things - the Grammy-winning How Great Thou Art LP. Then Chip worked on these June 1966 cuts: Indescribably Blue, I'll Remember You, If Everyday Was Like Christmas. He didn't play on a movie soundtrack until Clambake in February 1967. In March 1967, he played on Suppose. The forementioned sessions list Scotty Moore above Chip - but for the Speedway session in June 1967, Scotty wasn't there and Chip is listed at the top.
Chip played on the Sept. 67 Guitar Man session and the Stay Away Joe / Too Much Monkey Business session in January 1968. Ernst book states it was probably Chip who suggested that Elvis do Hi-Heel Sneakers which became a single B-Side. He didn't work with Elvis for a couple years after that because the 68 NBC show and the Memphis album and 69-70 Vegas engagements didn't require Chip's talents.
Chip did go back in the studio with Elvis in June 1970 to work on the now-historic Nashville Marathon sessions. He also did the Sept. 70 session which yielded Snowbird and Rags To Riches. Playing on classics such as Early Morning Rain and I'm leavin' Chip's work is on Elvis Country and Elvis Now and his last session with Elvis was for the Grammy-winning He Touched Me.
(Source: FECC / Gretch Page / ElvisMatters)
The Elvis Radio / Elvis Unlimited CD "Always Elvis: The Classics" has been released in Denmark. This is a limited edition, available for a short time. Part of the profit made on this CD goes to TrygFondens family house in Skejby.
(Source: Elvis And His Music / Elvis Unlimited)
Celebrating 80 years of Elvis Presley, this Newsweek Special Edition is a guide to all things the King, from his early life in Mississippi through the creation of rock & roll in Memphis to the marquees of Las Vegas blazing with his name. Featuring exclusive interviews and stories from those who knew him best, it's a fitting tribute to the man who revolutionized entertainment as we know it today: the one, the only, Elvis Presley.
US Charts
'It's Christmas Time' drops from 52 to 53 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Chart for w/e 27th December, 2014; remains 6 on the Catalog Album Chart; drops from 10 to 12 on the Holiday Album Chart and drops from 43 to 49 on the Top Album Sales Chart.
'Merry Christmas, Love Elvis' drops from 112 to 132 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Chart; drops from 17 to 21 on the Catalog Album Chart; drops from 23 to 27 on the Holiday Album Chart and drops from 80 to 98 on the Top Album Sales Chart.
'The Classic Christmas Album' rises from 118 to 105 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Chart; rises from 20 to 12 on the Catalog Album Chart and rises from 88 to 80 on the Top Album Sales Chart.
'Blue Christmas' rises from 23 to 22 on the Holiday 100 Chart; rises from 24 to 22 on the Holiday Airplay Chart and rises from 31 to 24 on the Holiday Digital Songs Chart.
'Here Comes Santa Claus' rises from 89 to 83 on the Holiday 100 Chart.
Elvis drops from 53 to 58 on the Artist 100 Chart.
European Charts
On the Dutch Mid-price Album chart "The Classic Christmas Album" drop from #2 to #3 in it’s third week on the chart. "The Essential Elvis Presley" climbed from #17 to #14 on that same chart.
The compilation "The Real Elvis" climbed from #69 to #65 on the Italian Album charts.
Good Times
The German Good Times music magazine celebrates the 80th anniversary of Elvis Presley with an Elvis Special.
Vintage Rock Magazine #15 is out!
Issue 15 of Vintage Rock is an Elvis 80th birthday special, complete with four special edition covers to collect.
(Source: Newsweek / FECC / Brian Quinn / Elvis And His Music / The King's World)
In January 2015, Audionics will release something special entitled "Elvis: City Of Angels"; a 120-page hardback book with two CDs, featuring both shows which Elvis performed on May 11th, 1974 at The Forum (Inglewood) in Los Angeles, CA.
From the press-release:
Audionics is aware that these shows were released before (by the Graceland Records label, 2007 and official Sony/FTD label, 2007). To bring out the ultimate sound quality, Audionics worked with direct transfers of the original master tapes.
Compared with its previous release, the evening show is vastly superior in sound. It was not taken from the same compact cassette source you have heard on the FTD soundboard release 'Live In L. A.', but comes from an original reel-to-reel soundboard tape transfer! The sound difference is like night & day. The afternoon show has much improved sound too, coming from the original audience recorded mastertape. The sound (although not excellent) is clearer than before and most of disturbing distortion is gone.
In recent years, some younger fans claimed that Elvis' performances in LA were mediocre. Nevertheless, fans who were present always mentioned these were "kick-ass performances". It's worth mentioning that these shows were attended by a few members of the hard-rock band 'Led Zeppelin' as well as by Bill Wyman, the Rolling Stones bass player.
The 120-page book is filled with many brand new photos of great quality (both b/w and colour) and what’s most important, more than 120 images have never before been published anywhere! The accompanying text was written by an infamous author. This special audiovisual set will mark the ultimate release of Elvis Presley's live appearances at the Los Angeles in May ’74. Every second was digitally restored to achieve the best possible result. This is the first-ever Audionics real audio-visual presentation. It’s a special set which deserves a place in any serious Elvis collection!
CD1 - 11.05.1974 2:30 PM:
01. Introduction: Also Sprach Zarathustra - 02. C. C. Rider - 03. I Got A Woman / Amen - 04. Love Me - 05. Tryin' To Get To You - 06. All Shook Up - 07. (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel - 08. Love Me Tender - 09. You Can Have Her - 10. Steamroller Blues - 11. Hound Dog - 12. Fever - 13. Polk Salad Annie - 14. Why Me Lord - 15. Suspicious Minds - 16. Introductions of singers, musicians, orchestra - 17. I Can't Stop Loving You - 18. Help Me - 19. An American Trilogy - 20. Let Me Be There (with reprise) - 21. Funny How Time Slips Away - 22. Big Boss Man - 23. Can't Help Falling In Love - 24. Closing Vamp / Announcements
CD2 - 11.05.1974 8:30 PM:
01. Introduction: Also Sprach Zarathustra - 02. C. C. Rider - 03. I Got A Woman / Amen - 04. Love Me (with reprise) - 05. Trying To Get To You - 06. All Shook Up - 07. (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel - 08. Love Me Tender - 09. Steamroller Blues - 10. Hound Dog - 11. Fever - 12. Polk Salad Annie - 13. Why Me Lord - 14. Suspicious Minds - 15. Introductions of singers, musicians, orchestra - 16. I Can't Stop Loving You - 17. Help Me - 18. An American Trilogy - 19. Let Me Be There (with reprise) - 20. Funny How Time Slips Away - 21. Big Boss Man - 22. Can‘t Help Falling In Love - 23. Closing Vamp / Announcements
Tracks 21-23 were recorded on May 10th, 1974 in Swing auditorium, San Bernardino, CA, 8:30 PM
Bonus:
23. Robert Plant talks about meeting Elvis - 24. Big Boss Man - 25. Can‘t Help Falling In Love - 26. Closing Vamp / Announcements
Tracks 24-26 were recorded from audience on May 11th, 1974 E/S and they are used for historical reason.
Meet Me ... At Del Webb´s Sahara Tahoe!
The Straight Arrow import-release "Meet Me ... At Del Webb´s Sahara Tahoe!", containing the May 26, 1974 Midnight Show performance as recorded at the Sahara Tahoe Hotel.
Tracks:
Introduction: Also Sprach Zarathustra - C. C. Rider - I Got A Woman / Amen - Love Me - Tryin' To Get To You - All Shook Up - Hound Dog - Fever - Polk Salad Annie - Why Me Lord (With Reprise) - Suspicious Minds - Introductions Of Singers, Musicians, Orchestra - I Can’t Stop Loving You (With False Start) - Help Me - Bridge Over Troubled Water - Let Me Be There - Big Boss Man - The Wonder Of You - Can’t Help Falling In Love - Closing Vamp / Announcements.
Elvis 68 Comeback Special DVD Vol. 1
The import DVD "Elvis, '68 Special Edition Vol. 1 DVD" containing a recut of the "'68 Comeback Special" has been released.
Synopsis:
Many years ago, Elvis fans were delighted with videotape releases containing spectacular outtakes of the famous ’68 Comeback Special featuring sensational camera angles and performances of Elvis during one of his finest moments in his career. Over the years since, most of the footage has seen the light of day in various official releases.
So why then this DVD production? Well, this DVD series takes the ’68 Comeback Special to a whole new level, in a fantastic split screen production combining all the available footage and capturing all the excitement – making watching the ’68 Comeback Special a whole new experience.
(Source: FECC / Elvis Aktuell)
The Venus import label announced the release of the CD "Hard Knocks".
From the press-release:
Venus Productions is proud to present a new CD with more than 70 minutes of Elvis in the ‘60s! As a follow-up to our respected “Unedited Masters Series” we’re offering you 14 unreleased takes in the well-known Venus sound quality on these ‘60s movie songs. This will be a great addition to your Elvis collection.
Tracks:
1 Easy Come, Easy Go,Take 10 - 2 I'll take Love, Takes 1-2A and take 3 * - 3 Sing You Children, Takes 18-20 * (take 20 take call only) - 4 She's A Machine, Take 14 * - 5 She's A Machine, Take 15 (master - record version) – 6 The Love Machine, Take 13 - 7 The Love Machine , Take 14 (master - movie version) – 8 Yoga Is As Yoga Does, Take 1 * - 9 Yoga Is As Yoga Does, Take 2 * - 10 Yoga Is As Yoga Does, Take 3 * - 11 Yoga Is As Yoga Does, Take 4 * - 12 Hard Knocks, Take 11 Master – 13 Little Egypt , Take 21 (Master - movie version) – 14 It's A Wonderful World, Take 17 * Track only - 15 Mexico, Takes 1-2 – 16 Marguerita, Takes 7*, 6 - 17 The Bullfighter Was A Lady, Take 10 (remake) - 18 Wisdom Of The Ages, Take 4 * - 19 Wisdom Of The Ages, Take 5 (Master) - 20 Kismet, Takes 1-2 - 21 Kismet, Takes 3*, 4*, 5 (Master) - 22 Hey Little Girl, Takes 1-2 - 23 Shake That Tambourine, Takes 14 * - 24 Shake That Tambourine, Takes 15*, 17,18,19, 20, 16 – 25 What I'd Say, Takes 1,2 – 26 What I'd Say, Take 3 * - 27 What I'd Say, Take 4 (Master) * unreleased.
You always thought that all movie soundtracks sounded bad? Taken from the original tapes, these recordings will prove you wrong!
Love Me Tender
Due from MCP Sound & Media GmbH on January 2, 2015 is "Love Me Tender" a CD and DVD Edition double CD set. Doppel-CD.
Rolling Stone Cover
The next edition of the German "Rolling Stone" magazine (01/2015) features Elvis Presley on the cover and comes with a replica vinyl single of Elvis Presley's debut single "That's All Right". The magazine is available December 18, 2014.
(Source: FECC / Elvis Memories / Amazon)
This is the 2014 Fan Club Presidents CD send out by Elvis Presley Enterprises to the officially recognized fan-clubs. This year's CD contains the songs "I'll Be Home For Christmas", "The First Noel" and "White Christmas" and a "Thank You" note from Priscilla and Lisa Marie Presley.
Such A Night
The Vee-Tone-Records vinyl 10 inch EP "Elvis - Such A Night: Rockin' In The Early 60's" has been released. This release, limited to 1000 copies, contains 12 songs from 1960 to 1962.
Side A:Make Me Know It - I Slipped, I Stumbled, I Fell - Shoppin' Around - Such A Night - Slicin' Sand - Follow That Dream
Side B:
Little Sister - Put The Blame On Me - Steppin' Out Of Line - I Want You With Me - What A Wonderful Life - Gonna Get Back Home Somehow
(Source: Amazon / FECC)
A few days after her stroke Elvis Presley's former soprano background singer of the 50's, 60's and early 70's Millie Kirkham passed away in a hospital in her hometown of Nashville this Sunday, December 14, 2014. Mildred, as her real name was, reached the age of 91.
(Source: Elvis Telegraph / The King's World / FECC)
Elvis Presley's debut album "Elvis Presley" will be re-issued once more. This time the US based Newbury Comics re-issues the album on a bright coloured pink and green vinyl. It is limited to 903 copies and due December 16, 2014.
Tracks:
Blue Suede Shoes , I'm Counting On You, I Got A Woman, One-Sided Love Affair, I Love You Because - Just Because - Tutti Frutti, Tryin' To Get To You, I'm Gonna Sit Right Down and Cry (Over You), I'll Never Let You Go (Little Darlin'), Blue Moon, Money Honey.
New Tunzi Books Announced
Joseph A. Tunzi's JAT Publishing announced two new book-releases for 2015: "The Definitive Vinyl Artwork of Elvis Presley 1956-1977" and "From St. Paul to Fort Wayne".
Joseph Tunzi's book, "Elvis Photographed Live On Stage In Charlotte and Memphis" features pictures from Elvis Presley's concerts in Charlotte, North Carolina on March 9, 1974 and Memphis, Tennessee on March 16, 17 and 20, 1974 has been released.
(Source: Newbury Comics / Elvis Aktuell / JAT Publishing)
The, for many fans, most important book release of the last few years, "The Ultimate Elvis" has been release.
Synopsis:
This is the Complete And Definitive Recording Sessions book. This three-volume, individually numbered, deluxe set (in a beautiful slipcase), not only comprises all the session information available to date, based on Keith Flynn's incomparable website keithflynn.com, but includes comprehensive notes on each session, discographies, reviews of every single, EP and album release, release dates, facsimiles of RCA's paperwork, session logs, listing notices, letters from Colonel Parker's office and RCA's archive, the reproduction of original sheet music covers (courtesy of Chris Giles), a huge index and a host of other things.
Of course, as you have come to expect from The Elvis Files, the icing on the cake is a wealth of stunning photographs - approximately 1500 of them! - many of them previously unseen, relating to the time period in question.
What A Wonderful Life
An unknown label has announced a new CD entitled "Elvis - What A Wonderful Life". This release contains 27 tracks recorded in 1961, including many previously unreleased by Elvis' record company.
From the publisher:
Including all missing outtakes from the movie "Follow That Dream" as well as many other recordings! All outtakes in top notch sound quality. Presented in a cardboard sleeve.
Tracks:
1. Home Is Where The Heart Is (take 12), 2. King Of The Whole Wide World (take 6), 3. Riding The Rainbow (take 6), 4. This Is Living (take 8), 5. Little Sister (master), 6. Rock-A-Hula-Baby (single master / mono), 7. Good Luck Charm (single master / mono), 8. I’m Yours (undubbed single master), 9. That’s Someone You Never Forget (master), 10. Kiss Me Quick (master), 11. Judy (master), 12. Follow That Dream (take 5*), 13. Follow That Dream (master), 14. I’m Not The Marrying Kind (take 1* & 5*), 15. A Whistling Tune (take 1)*, 16. I’m Not The Marrying Kind (take 7* & master), 17. Sound Advice (take 2*, 3*, 4* & 5*), 18. What A Wonderful Life (master), 19. Angel (master), 20. No More (take 9), 21. Beach Boy Blues (take 3*), 22. Slicin’ Sand (take 10), 23. Can’t Help Falling In Love (take 9*), 24. For The Millionth And The Last Time (take 6), 25. I Met Her Today (take 7), 26. Kiss Me Quick (take 11*), 27. On Top Of Old Smokey (movie excerpt) (* Previously unreleased by Elvis record company).
(Source: Elvis Aktuell)
Online bidding has started for the second Auction at Graceland. Fans now have a chance to own an authenticated artifact from the King of Rock 'n' Roll.
The online proxy bidding will culminate in the Live Auction event at 7 p.m. CST January 8, 2015 at the Graceland Archive Studio. Bidders do not have to be present to participate, as all of the collectible artifacts can be viewed online and are available for bidding right now.
All 67 items in the auction are offered from third-party collectors. The mansion and all artifacts at the Graceland Archives continue to be owned by Lisa Marie Presley and are not for sale. The auction will take place on site at Graceland and is powered by Simple Auctions for online bidding. Included in the auction are Elvis' first recorded acetate of "My Happiness," the Louisiana Hayride contract signed by Elvis and his parents and Elvis' first driver's license.
Released
The CDs "Welcome Aboard!" and "Elvis’ Christmas Album" have been released by the Elvis One label. The first CD documents Elvis Presley's 1962 movie "Girls! Girls! Girls! with 68 tracks while the second CD cover the classic 1957 Christmas release. Both releases come with various alternate takes and a 12 page booklet.
US Charts
- 'It's Christmas Time' rises from 95 to 52 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Chart for w/e 20th December, 2014; remains 6 on the Catalog Album Chart; rises from 12 to 10 on the Holiday Album Chart and rises from 78 to 43 on the Top Album Sales Chart.
- 'Merry Christmas, Love Elvis' rises from 180 to 112 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Chart; rises from 26 to 17 on the Catalog Album Chart; rises from 27 to 23 on the Holiday Album Chart; rises from 8 to 4 on the Country Catalog Album Chart and is a new entry at 80 on the Top Album Sales Chart.
- 'The Classic Christmas Album' rises from 190 to 118 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Chart; rises from 28 to 20 on the Catalog Album Chart; rises from 9 to 6 on the Country Catalog Album Chart and is a new entry at 88 on the Top Album Sales Chart.
- 'Heart And Soul' rises from 20 to 19 on the Country Catalog Album Chart.
- 'Blue Christmas' (Album) is a new entry on the Country Catalog Album Chart at 23.
- 'Blue Christmas' remains at 23 on the Holiday 100 Chart; rises from 26 to 24 on the Holiday Airplay Chart and drops from 30 to 31 on the Holiday Digital Songs Chart.
- 'Here Comes Santa Claus' drops from 57 to 89 on the Holiday 100 Chart.
- 'He Touched Me: The Gospel Music Of Elvis Presley' (Vols. 1 and 2) re-enters the Music Video Chart at 4.
Elvis rises from 86 to 53 on the Artist 100 Chart.
European Charts
- The CD "The Real... Elvis" remains steady at # 64 on the Italian Album-Chart.
- The CD "The Classic Christmas Album" remains steady at #2 on the Dutch Mid-price Album chart while "The Essential Elvis Presley" compilation climbed from #21 to #17. "The Platinum Collection - 75 Original Hits On 3 CD's" was a new entry at #40 last week, but dropped off the chart.
(Source: EPE / The King's World / Brian Quinn/ Dutch Charts)
Volume 77 in the German "Elvis Sammlung" series has been released. This volume contains the usual magazine, memorabilia reproductions and a mini-poster for a RCA catalogue.
(Elvis Sammlung)
The vinyl re-issue of the "Something For Everybody" album has been released. It comes on 180 gr. vinyl with two additional bonustracks.
Tracks:
There’s Always Me - Give Me The Right - It’s A Sin - Sentimental Me - Starting Today - Gently - I’m Comin’ Home - In Your Arms - Put The Blame On Me - Judy - I Want You With Me - I Slipped, I Stumbled, I Fell - Bonus Tracks: I Feel So Bad and Little Sister.
Mary Ann Mobley Died
Mary Ann Mobley, a former Miss America, and Elvis' leading lady in "Girl Happy" and "Harum Scarum", passed away today at the age of 75. In recent years, she'd battled Crohn's Disease and breast cancer.
(Source: Elvis Aktuell / FECC)
Imagine finding a copy of an old Christmas record worth more than $15,000. According to vintage vinyl music expert John Marshall (aka “Mighty John the Record Guy”), there are many old Christmas records worth several hundred to several thousand dollars. If most of these records are no longer played on the radio, we wondered, why are they so valuable?
Marshall says a combination of factors can make an old record worth a lot of money. He spoke with TheBlaze Radio and shared his list of the top twelve most valuable Christmas records, detailing the specifics of what makes each one of these discs desirable to vinyl collectors. Presented here, a top five countdown of these valuable recordings.
At No. 5, Gayla Peevey’s 1953 classic, “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” was reportedly a smash back in the 50s, but is rarely heard today. However, if you have a vinyl copy of the single, with the original picture sleeve, it could fetch as much as $250.
The 4th most desired disc, 1971′s — a Beatles LP from Apple Records – “The Beatles Christmas Album.” This one could bring as much as $500.
Another Beatles-related release is at No. 3. John Lennon’s solo project with Yoko Ono, “Happy Christmas,” is worth a lot of money today. If you can get your hands on the promotional release sent to radio stations in 1971, it sells for as much as $750 in top condition.
The top two spots on Marshall’s list belong to “The King” — Elvis Presley.
Elvis’ 1957 classic “Blue Christmas” sells for up to $3,000. Again, there are many different versions of this vinyl single out there. The really important thing to look for: the white label disc, from 1957.
The leap in value from the No. 2 position to the top of the chart is considerable. As a matter of fact, according to “Mighty John the Record Guy,” the most valuable Christmas vinyl is worth six times what the second place finisher could bring.
At No. 1, the 1957 release from RCA records, the “Elvis Christmas Album” (red vinyl) — in top condition, this one could fetch $18,000.
Marshall stresses that there are a few key elements that must be present to push an “Elvis Christmas Album” into the top tier of collectibility.
- Great condition is vital to bringing top dollar for any vintage vinyl.
- The recording must be pressed on red vinyl. (Black vinyl is still valuable – but the red disc is most desired by Elvis fans.)
- And the disc has to have the catalogue LOC-1035
(Source: The Blaze / ElvisMatters)
The earlier announced Touchdown Productions 2CD-release "Still Crazy After All These Years!" is out! This contains an audience recording of the Evening Show in Asheville, North Carolina on July 22, 1975. This CD comes with a 16 pages booklet with concert reviews and color photos from the Asheville shows.
Lightning Strikes Twice In Portland!
The Straight Arrow import-release “Lightning Strikes Twice In Portland! - The Rick Rennie Master Tapes Vol. 2” containing the November 11, 8.30 PM and April 27, 1973 8 PM shows, both recorded at the Coliseum, Portland.
(Source: Elvis And His Music / Elvis Aktuell)
The UK British Phonographic Industry (BPI) Certifications certified the Sony / RCA "Christmas Peace" compilation "Platinum" for sales of over 300,000 units.
Always Elvis: The Classics
Always Elvis (Radio) And Graceland Randers announced the release of the CD "Always Elvis: The Classics" with December 20, 2014 as the release-date. The CD, which contains 20 tracks, is a limited edition. art of the profit made on this CD goes to the TrygFondens family house in Skejby.
Tracks:
Don’t Be Cruel - One Night - Are You Lonesome Tonight? - Jailhouse Rock - Love Me Tender - I Got A Woman - Blue suede Shoes - Lawdy Miss Clawdy - Hound Dog - Paralyzed - Love me - Heartbreak Hotel - Money Honey - I Was The One - My Baby Left Me - Tutti Frutti - All Shook Up - Peace In The Valley - Shake, Rattle And Roll - I Want You, I Need You, I Love You
Elvis.80
The SONY / SME Media release "Elvis 80" has been released. The 3 CD-set contains one "new" track, a remix of "Shake That Tambourine" by Alle Farben.
US Billboard Charts
- 'It's Christmas Time' drops from 62 to 95 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Chart for w/e 13th December, 2014; drops from 5 to 6 on the Catalog Album Chart and rises from 14 to 12 on the Holiday Album Chart.
- 'Merry Christmas, Love Elvis' drops from 107 to 180 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Chart; drops from 21 to 26 on the Catalog Album Chart; drops from 26 to 27 on the Holiday Album Chart and drops from 5 to 8 on the Country Catalog Album Chart.
- 'The Classic Christmas Album' drops from 128 to 190 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Chart; rises from 30 to 28 on the Catalog Album Chart and drops from 7 to 9 on the Country Catalog Album Chart.
- 'Heart And Soul' re-enters at 20 on the Country Catalog Album Chart.
- 'Blue Christmas' (Single) rises from 35 to 30 on the Holiday Digital Songs Chart and is a re-entry at 23 on the Holiday 100 Chart.
- 'Here Comes Santa Claus' (Single) is a re-entry at 57 on the Holiday 100 Chart.
Elvis is ranked at 86 on the Artist 100 Chart.
European Charts
- The CD "The Real... Elvis" dropped from #45 to #45 on the Italian Album charts.
- The Warner Home Video 6-DVD-Box "The Elvis Collection" entered the UK Video charts at #32.
- The DVDs "Elvis In The Movies" is listed on the Irish Music DVD charts at #6.
- On the Dutch Mid-price charts "The Classic Christmas Album" is a new entry at #2 while "The Essential Elvis Presley" dropped from #18 to #21 and "The Platinum Collection - 75 Original Hits On 3 CD's" is a new entry at #40.
(Source: Elvis Aktuell / Elvis Unlimited / Amazon / The King's World / FECC / Dutch Charts)
Coming out before holiday season is the final Straight Arrow's single-digipack release of 2014 "Meet Me ... At Del Webb's Sahara Tahoe!", featuring May 26th, 1974 Midnight show.
From the press-release:
While Elvis was alive, many fans dreamt of a chance to meet the man. The best chance that people had to meet him was at the Sahara in Lake Tahoe, where the intimacy of the showroom gave Elvis the possibility to interact with his fans ‘upclose and personal’. Those that were lucky enough to witness the star during one of his shows there in May ’74, witnessed a charismatic performer in full control of his art and his audience.
Originally, the May 26th Midnight was supposed to be closing show of the season, but due to the huge demand, special 3am show on May 27th was added. The show on this release is a real audience pleaser, as he flirts with the girls on the frontrow and sings all the 1974 show favorites with verve. This is a rather good audience recording that gives you a frontrow perspective of this delightful performance. Ask your local dealer for samples! The May 26th, 1974 M/S is a completely new concert even for die-hard Elvis fans. It has never been in circulation - in any form. The so called „May 26th, 1974 M/S“ audience recording available on tape/CDR is wrongly dated!
"Meet Me ... At Del Webb's Sahara Tahoe!" is taken from a first generation copy of an original audience recorded cassette, obtained from a collector in the US and the date was verified through several very credible sources. Every second was digitally restored to achieve optimal listening pleasure. Straight Arrow is taking the opportunity to thank Elvis Presley fans all over the World for their loyalty and continual support. We are doing the best to deliver you interesting collectors releases in good sound and eye catching packaging. We are always looking for previously unknown concert recordings or superior sounding versions, compared to what is available on tapes/CDRs/old CDs. The year 2015 is a special anniversary for us - it marks 10 years since our initial CD release titled "Pieces Of My Life“. We promise you several surprising releases for 2015 – so stay tuned! The Straight Arrow team would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and prosperous, Happy New Year!
Tracks:
01. Introduction: Also Sprach Zarathustra - 02. C. C. Rider - 03. I Got A Woman / Amen - 04. Love Me - 05. Tryin' To Get To You - 06. All Shook Up - 07. Hound Dog - 08. Fever - 09. Polk Salad Annie - 10. Why Me Lord (with reprise) - 11. Suspicious Minds - 12. Introductions of singers, musicians, orchestra - 13. I Can’t Stop Loving You (with false start) - 14. Help Me - 15. Bridge Over Troubled Water - 16. Let Me Be There - 17. Big Boss Man - 18. The Wonder Of You - 19. Can’t Help Falling In Love - 21. Closing Vamp / Announcements.
Ultimate Elvis: The Complete & Definitive Recording Sessions
To be released December 12, the huge 3 volume "Ultimate Elvis : The Complete & Definitive Recording Sessions" will now be bigger and have more pages than expected. Initially each of the three volumes was set at 500 pages (per book), but now the total has already reached 1700 pages. This individually numbered deluxe set (in a beautiful slipcase) is limited to only 2000 copies and is already sold-out.
The set not only comprises all the recording session details that are available to date, with the help of the fantastic Keith Flynn and his superb research. It also includes detailed discographies, reviews of every single, EP and album release, original release dates, facsimiles of RCA's paperwork, session logs, listing notices, letters from Colonel Parker's office and RCA's archive, the reproduction of original sheet music covers, a huge index and a host of other things. The icing on the cake is a wealth of stunning photographs - approximately 1500 of them - many of them previously unseen (according to the press-release).
(Source: FECC / Elvis Australia)
Sony Japan released the CD "Elvis Presley Selection: Eiichi Ohtaki's Juke Box".
Tracks:
Don't Be Cruel - Hound Dog - King Creole - Lover Doll - G. I. Blues - Doin' The Best I Can - Surrender -Lonely Man - Rock-A-Hula Baby - Can't Help Falling In Love - Return To Sender - Where Do You Come From - Viva Las Vegas - What'd I Say - Do The Clam - You'll Be Gone - Kissin' Cousins - It Hurts Me - Easy Question - It Feels So Right
Tommie Sunshine Remixes Classic Elvis Song
Record producer, remixer and DJ Tommie Sunshine has remixed Elvis' gospel track "I've Got A Feelin' in My Body."
"Working with the original recording session of Elvis Presley is nothing short of a psychedelic experience," Sunshine said. "Hearing his vocals by themselves was a window into how incredible of a singer he truly was."
Sunshine worked with Denver, Colorado-based producer Wuki for the remix. Sunshine honored the song's original smooth STAX groove and added in a fresh electronic dance music sound.
Listen to the link >> here.
First bid on Elvis's airplanes
A bidder with 100% positive feedback has placed a bid of 3.5 million dollars on both of Elvis's airplanes: the Lisa Marie and Hound Dog II. However, since the reserve price wasn't met, there's no deal (yet). The seller, OKC Partnership now has the right to negotiate a 'buy now' agreement with the bidder. Let's see if they reach such an agreement. In anyway, the planes are no longer for sale on eBay.
City Council Approves $77 Million For Graceland Expansion
“Do we get free tickets?” asked Memphis City Councilman Lee Harris of a Graceland representative. The Memphis City Council approved giving $77 million of public resources to Elvis Presley Enterprises for a 120-acre expansion project at Graceland. “It appears based on the numbers that the city is putting in most of the money; will the city get title or any right to enter into the property?” asked Harris.
“This is a private project that the city and all other… it's open to the public if they pay their admission price they can come to the project,” the Graceland representative replied at Tuesday's council meeting. Graceland's expansion project consists of a new theater and exhibit archive, the 450-room hotel on Graceland property and a 300,000 square-foot retail and museum expansion.
While city council provided the money, Graceland reps said they will provide the land. “The large number of expense frightens me, the government getting involved in private enterprise frightens me, the other piece that frightens me is the long term obligation,” said Harris of the 20-year obligation. The funding was approved 10-1 at Tuesday's meeting. Graceland reps say the Elvis Presley landmark brings in nearly $180 million in tourism money for Memphis; they estimate the expansion will bring that to $1 billion during the next 15 years.
(Source: Elvis Aktuell / ElvisMatters / EPE / Soundcloud)
The Touchdown Records importlabel released the double CD set "Still Crazy After All These Years!" containing an audience recording from the July 22, 1975 Evening show as recorded from the audience in Asheville North Carolina. The set comes with a 16 pages booklet with concert reviews and color photos from the Asheville shows.
Tracks CD 1:
1. Also Sprach Zarathustra - 0,55 2. See See Rider – 3,33 3. I Got A Woman / Amen – 9,28 4. Monologue – 0,52 5. Big Boss Man – 3,16 6. Monologue – 0,21 7. Why Me Lord – 2,44 8. Havin´ Fun With The Band – 2,47 9. Love Me – 3,25 10. If You love Me (Let Me Know) – 2,49 11. Elvis About His Album `Today´ - 0,36 12. Looking For The `C´Cord – 0,42 13. Shake A Hand – 3,12 14. All Shook Up – 1,03 15. Teddy Bear/Don´t Be Cruel – 2,16 16. Hound Dog – 2,06 17. The Wonder Of You – 1,37 18. Elvis Jokes About The `Creepin Crud´ - 3,32 19. Memphis Tennessee – 2,07
Tracks CD 2:
1. Funny How Time Slips Away – 3,16 2. Polk Salad Annie (sl.incompl.) – 3,26 3. Introductions Pt.1 by J.D.Sumner – 1,14 4. Johnny B. Goode by James Burton – 0,37 5. Drum Solo by Ronnie Tutt – 1,30 6. Bass Solo by Jerry Scheff – 1,29 7. Piano Solo by Glen D. Hardin – 1,01 8. Introductions Pt.2 by J.D. Sumner – 1,24 9. School Days – 0,52 10. T-R-O-U-B-L-E – 3,51 11. Bathroom Explanation – 0,43 12. It´s Now Or Never – 2,29 13. You Don´t Have To Say You Love Me – 2,04 14. How Great Thou Art (with reprise) – 4,40 15. Burning Love – 2,34 16. Audience Talk – 0,50 17. Let Me Be There – 2,34 18. Heartbreak Hotel – 1,46 19. Little Darlin´- 1,58 20. Mystery Train/Tiger Man – 2,29 21. Present To J.D.Sumner – 1,48 22. Can´t Help Falling In Love – 1,55
Elvis: Retour à Tupelo
This is the cover-art for the French re-issue of the “Return To Tupelo” which is due from Showshank Films on January 6, 2015.
(Source: Elvis On CD / FECC)
The earlier announced Follow That Dream releases "Flaming Star" and "Elvis 'Christmas Album" have been released.
Tracklist Flaming Star:
Flaming Star - A Cane And A High Starched Collar - Britches - Summer Kisses, Winter Tears - Flaming Star (End Title Version)
Alternate Movie Name Title Tracks:
Black Star - Black Star (End Title Version)
The Outtakes:
Flaming Star (Take 1) - Summer Kisses, Winter Tears (Take 1, 2) - Black Star (Take 5) - Black Star (End Title Version) (Take 1, 2, 4, 5) - Summer Kisses, Winter Tears (Take 3, 4, 7, 8, 9) - Summer Kisses, Winter Tears (Take 10, 12, 14) - A Cane And A High Starched Collar (Take 1, 2, 3, 4, 5) - A Cane And A High Starched Collar (Take 6 And Insert - Take 1, 5, 6) - Summer Kisses, Winter Tears (Movie Version) (Take 2 With Guide Track) - Flaming Star(Take 2) - Flaming Star (Take 3, 4) - Summer Kisses, Winter Tears (Take 15, 16) - Summer Kisses, Winter Tears (Take 17) - Summer Kisses, Winter Tears (Take 19) - Flaming Star (Take 5) - Flaming Star (End Title Version) (Take 1, 3, 4) - Britches (Take 1, 2, 3, 4, 5) - Britches (Take 7 With Insert Take 1) - Summer Kisses, Winter Tears (Take 26) - A Cane And A High Starched Collar (Overdubbed Movie Version) - Summer Kisses, Winter Tears (Overdubbed Movie Version / Vocal Overdub Take 1M)
Tracklist Elvis 'Christmas Album:
Santa Claus Is Back In Town - White Christmas - Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane) - I’ll Be Home For Christmas - Blue Christmas - Santa Bring My Baby Back (To Me) - Oh Little Town Of Bethlehem - Silent Night - (There’ll Be) Peace In The Valley (For Me) - I Believe - Take My Hand, Precious Lord - It Is No Secret (What God Can Do)
Bonus Songs:
My Wish Came True - Treat Me Nice - Don’t
The Binaural Session Tapes:
(There’ll Be) Peace In The Valley (For Me) (Take 1) - (There’ll Be) Peace In The Valley (For Me) (Take 2, 3) - (There’ll Be) Peace In The Valley (For Me) (Take 4) - (There’ll Be) Peace In The Valley (For Me) (Take 5, 6, 7) - (There’ll Be) Peace In The Valley (For Me) (Take 8, 9/M) - It Is No Secret (What God Can Do) (Take 1, 2, 3) - It Is No Secret (What God Can Do) (Take 4, 5) - It Is No Secret (What God Can Do) (Take 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12) - It Is No Secret (What God Can Do) (Take 13/M)
USA Singles Collection
The Real Gone Music label released the 4 CD-Box "Elvis Presley - USA Singles Collection 1954-1962 Plus Bonus EP's" containing 92 songs from the years 1954 until 1962.
(Source: Elvis Aktuell)
25.jpg){kind=small}
