Friday, July 31, 2015

July 31 - Released!

Two import CD’s containing audience-recordings have been (re)released. The 

Straight Arrow import-release “Elvis - The Man From Memphis” containing audience-recordings of the May 13, 1973 3 AM show as recorded from the audience at the Sahara Tahoe Hotel and the November 26, 1976 8:30 PM Show as recorded from the audience at the Memorial Coliseum in Portland. 

The 1973 show was previously released as “Elvis - The Man In White Vol. 4 - The Perfect Gift” while the 1976 show saw an earlier release as “Last Time In Portland”.

The E.P. Collector import—label released “Elvis In Fine Form” containing an audience-recording of the February 9, 1973 mid-night show performance as recorded from the audience in Las Vegas. 

Charts
  • The "Heart And Soul" set rises from #24 to #22 on the Billboard Country Catalog Album Chart for the week ending August 8, 2015.
  • The DVD box "Music Legends: Elvis Presley" re-entered the Irish Music DVD chart at #3. 
  • The “ELV1S 30 # 1 Hits” compilation dropped off the Dutch Mid-price Album chart from last week’s listing at #25. 
  • The “The Essential Elvis Presley“ compilation jumped from #19 to #7 on the Belgien Mid-price Album chart. 
  • The “The Real... Elvis“ compilation dropped from #84 to #100 on the Irish Album chart. 
  • The Warner Home Video 6-DVD-Box "The Elvis Collection" re-entered the UK Music Video chart at #46 
(Source: FECC / The King's World / Elvis And His Music)

Thursday, July 30, 2015

July 30 - Johnny Meeks Died

Guitarist Johnny Meeks, a former member of Gene Vincent & His Blue Caps, died Thursday, July 30, in Arkansas. He was 78. Meeks, a longtime member of the Rockabilly Hall of Fame, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Blue Caps in 2012. 

Although Meeks never got the praise and respect often reserved for his Blue Caps lead-guitar predecessor, Cliff Gallup, he was an accomplished guitarist who played on several pivotal Gene Vincent tracks, including "Lotta Lovin'" and "Say Mama," which Meeks wrote.

When the Blue Caps broke up in late 1958, Meeks joined the Tune Toppers, followed by the Champs. He went on to perform with Merle Haggard, Elvis Presley and former Monkee Michael Nesmith, even appearing on Nesmith's Tantamount to Treason album. Johnny Meeks also filmed two songs with Elvis in the movie "Roustabout" ("Little Egypt" and "Big Love, Big Heartache"). 

(Source: ElvisMatters)

Wednesday, July 29, 2015

July 29 - Atlanta Loves the Best Of Brittish

The Follow That Dream colle tors label announced the release of the book / CD set "Elvis: The Best Of British, 1956 - 1960". From the press-release:

Elvis Magnetized 
and mesmerized.
His music moved and inspired a generation!

This is Elvis and in the concluding volume of the trilogy Elvis: The Best of British, this time the focus is on the RCA recordings of 1959-1960 and, consistent with the previous volumes, contains over 500 pages. Discover exactly how Elvis, on his triumphant return from army service, reinvented his career at the top of the entertainment world when RCA declared ‘Elvis is Back!’ before the movie G.I. Blues changed his life forever. His story is graphically told through the music with over FIFTY iconic songs, originally released on the British RCA label, having been extensively researched.

Over 1100 rare or previously unpublished photographs, charts and unique memorabilia, create a visually enhanced record of a superstar with unsurpassed acclaim. Read about the management strategy to keep Elvis’ name in the public eye whilst he was away, which not only succeeded in retaining his image of more than just a singer, but as the pulse at the heart of a generation. With its wealth of invaluable information, this book includes: 

  • Every known photograph and press cutting of Elvis in Scotland, his only time on British soil! 
  • Photographs from the pivotal meeting with Hal Wallis in a German restaurant where Elvis’ future movie career was mapped out!
  • The New York Elvis songwriter who was thrown into the East River by mobsters and the British composer who appeared on a £10 bank note!
This book includes a 30 track CD featuring many performances officially released for the first time. Hear Elvis personally introduce his British chart toppers during this two year period along with other classic tracks, rare movie versions and audio movie promotions. Add to that, exciting songwriter demos as Elvis first heard them and you will own a unique CD to treasure.

Elvis: The Best Of British, The RCA Years 1959 - 1960 charts the fascinating facts about Private Presley’s RCA UK releases during these two years and Colonel Parker’s plan to engineer Elvis’ move away from rock ‘n’ roll to attract a new generation of fans whilst still retaining his crown as ‘The King’. Elvis: The Best Of British, 1956 - 1960, from a boy to a legend!

Track list Elvis: The Best Of British, The RCA Years 1959 – 1960:

Introduced by Elvis, UK Chart Toping Singles:
I Got Stung - One Night - (Now And Then There’s) A Fool Such As I - I Need Your Love Tonight - It’s Now Or Never (O Sole Mio) - Are You Lonesome Tonight?

More Of Elvis´ Introductions
My Wish Came True - A Big Hunk O‘ Love - It Feels So Right - Soldier Boy - I Will Be Home Again - Like A Baby - Such A Night - Fame And Fortune - Doin‘ The Best I Can

Magicial Movie Memories:
G. I. BLUES (Short Movie Trailer) - Pocketful Of Rainbows (Duet With Juliet Prowse) - What’s She Really Like (Shower Song) - Tonight’s All Right For Love (German Single Version) - G. I. Blues (UK Radio Advert No 1) - Frankfort Special (Train Version) - G. I. Blues (UK Radio Advert No 2) - Wooden Heart (Puppet Show Version) - G. I. Blues (UK Radio Advert No 3) - Shoppin‘ Around (Live Nightclub Version) - G. I. Blues (UK Radio Advert No 4) - Big Boots (Take 6 - Slow 2nd Version) - G. I. Blues (Long Movie Trailer)

Songwriter Demo Recordings:
Pocketful Of Rainbows (Vocal: Jimmy Breedlove) - I Gotta Know (Vocal: Paul Evans).

Mastered by Jan Eliasson
(Note: Composer credits for the song titles are listed within the book)
Θ This single was recorded in 1960 and made No 1 in January 1961
ΘΘ Courtesy of Ben Weisman
ΘΘΘ Courtesy of Paul Evans

Atlanta Loves Elvis

The TouchDown import-label announced the release of "Atlanta Loves Elvis". This contains an audience recording of the closing show in Las Vegas on December 15, 1975.

From the press-release:

As 1976 came to an end, there was not much spectacular to find concerning Elvis Presley's career over that year. In spite of well visited concerts and a constant high interest of his fans his live concerts were reaching a low point in summer, which was noticeable at less euphoric feedback's from the press and his fans who were sometimes disappointed by his performance. The following autumn brought an upturn for Elvis. Until the end of the year he managed to turn his low point into his last golden age. His concerts were getting exiting with an Elvis who became more healthy and in shape again. The great mood of the King was showing of in his concerts which made his last tour 1976 to one of the greatest in the 70s. „Touchdown“ presents you his concert from December the 30th 1976 on a new 2 Disc now. Elvis and Atlanta always had a special connection to each other which made concerts in Atlanta even more exiting. Elvis loved Atlanta and Atlanta loved him. An amazing set list and an artist who gave everything for the audience made this show the favorite for many fans. Even though this is just a record from the crowd the quality is amazing and much better than all others known so far what you can hear in the sample. Furthermore this evening Elvis sang and ultra rare and full length „Such A Night“ for his fans.

Tracks:
CD one – Total Playing Time 40:36
Also Sprach Zarathustra – 1:31 See See Rider – 3:52 I Got A Woman/Amen – 8:13 Big Boss Man – 3:09 Love Me – 2:45 Fairytale – 3:20 Happy Birthday,Elvis – 1:30 You Gave Me A Mountain – 3:14 About `It´s Now Or Never´ - 0:51 O Sole Mio/It´s Now Or Never – 3:33 Jailhouse Rock – 1:43 Such A Night – 1:51 Talk With The Audience – 1:28 Reconsider Baby – 2:53 About `Are You Lonesome Tonight´- 0:43

CD two – Total Playing Time 42:37
Are You Lonesome Tonight – 3:18 That´s Alright Mama – 2:03 Having Fun With The Audience – 2:34 My Way – 3:41 Polk Salad Annie – 3:58 Band Introductions – 1:48 Early Morning Rain – 1:48 What`d I Say/Johnny B. Goode – 1:45 Drum Solo by Ronnie Tutt – 1:43 Bass Solo by Jerry Scheff – 1:31 Piano Solo by Tony Brown – 1:02 Love Letters – 2:53 School Days – 1:17 Hurt (with reprise) – 3:56 Hound Dog – 2:26 Unchained Melody – 3:22 Can´t Help Falling In Love – 1:49 Closing Vamp – 1:43


(Source: FECC)

Monday, July 27, 2015

July 27 - Closing Show Books

The AudiRec import-label announced the release of the CD "Elvis Closing Night" a brandnew CD Set which will be released shortly. It includes an audience recording of the complete performance from December 15, 1975 – well known as the “Closing Night” for Elvis´ December Las Vegas 75 Season.

Expectations were high when Elvis returned to Las Vegas in December of 1975. Will the “King” reign again or will he again leave tons of disappointed fans who were waiting for “their” concerts back in August of the same year, only to learn that Elvis had to cancel the main part of his two-week engagements at the Showroom then? To cut it short: Elvis delivered mainly great shows. He seemed to be relaxed and enjoying himself on stage. The fans loved the performances and from what we can hear on several audience recordings and soundboard recordings, too, this Las Vegas Winter season of ´75 was a very good one.

The concert is now being released for the first time in its entirety. The initial release of this show on cd goes back to the early 1990´s and lacks from a couple of missing songs. Furthermore it was even wrongly dated.

Expect a fine, decent 2 CD Set containing a great show and be sure to get your copy at your local dealer! Accompanied by a 16-page booklet with lots of information and pictures from the show itself plus some from the days before this new CD release is - just like the first two releases on AudiRec (the already sold-out titles “Elvis At The Hilton” and “Opening Night 1975”) - also limited to only 300 copies.

Tracks: Closing show, Las Vegas, Nevada, Hilton Hotel:

CD 1:
01. Also Sprach Zarathustra 02. C. C. Rider 03. I Got A Woman / Amen 04. Love Me 05. Tryin' To Get To You 06. And I Love You So 07. All Shook Up 08. Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel 09. Hound Dog 10. Dialogue 11. I' m Leavin' 12. You Gave Me A Mountain 13. Polk Salad Annie

CD 2:
01. Band Introductions 02. What’d I Say (Instrumental - James Burton) 03. Drum Solo (Ronnie Tutt) 04. Bass Solo (Blues - Jerry Scheff) 05. Piano Solo (Glen D. Hardin) 06. School Day #1 07. School Day #2 08. Just Pretend 09. How Great Thou Art (with reprise) 10. Softly As I Leave You (with Sherrill Nielsen) 11. America (The Beautiful) 12. Burning Love (false start only) 13. Sweet, Sweet Spirit (J. D. Sumner & Stamps) 14. Little Sister 15. One Night 16. Until It's Time For You To Go 17. The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face 18. Mystery Train/Tiger Man 19. O Sole Mio (with false start) / It's Now Or Never 20. Can't Help Falling In Love 21. Closing Vamp

Elvis Love Songs

This CD is part of the 8 CD set "The Teen Years" with various artists. The set was published by Zestify Media and available though the webshop zestify.tv. The "Elvis Love Songs" CD is a bonus CD for this set. 

Tracks:
Don't / (Now And Then There's) A Fool Such As I / Love Me Tender / Surrender / Can't Help Falling In Love (With You) / Are You Lonesome Tonight / She's Not You / Blue Moon / Love Me / Loving You / Fame And Fortune / Anyway You Want Me / I Was The One / That's When Your Heartaches Begin

A new book by Red West

Red West is working on a new book. It is a cooperation with  Henrik Knudsen from the Danish Elvis Unlimited fanclub. The book should be due in the summer of 2016. 

Elvis Files Volume 7

Volume 7 in the "Elvis Files" series by Erik Lorentzen's team should be due August 2015. It features all Elvis 'events' from 1974-1975 like The Las Vegas and Lake Tahoe Seasons, a lot of candid moments and plenty of previously unpublished photos according to the update. The team is also working on the book "1957 A Touch of Gold Lame" which originally should be ready at the end of August 2015 but will see a release later this year. 

(Source: FECC / Graceland Randers / Elvis Aktuell / Elvis Information Network / Elvis On CD) 

Saturday, July 25, 2015

July - 25 - Elvis Live In Las Vegas

Here is the cover-art for the SONY rerelease of the 2001 4 CD Box “Elvis Live In Las Vegas”  which is due September 18, 2015. It comes in the same smaller sized budget re-issues as the previous "big"  box sets.

(Source: Amazon)

Friday, July 24, 2015

July 24 - Charts

The the US Billboard Country Album Charts for the week ending August 1, 2015 the "Heart And Soul" compilation dropped from #18 to #24. 

The “The Real... Elvis” climbed from #98 to #84 on the Irish Album chart.

The “ELV1S 30 #1 Hits”  compilation jumped from #49 to #25 on the Dutch Mid-price Album chart. 

The “The Essential Elvis Presley“ dropped from #17 to #19 on the Belgian Mid-price Album chart while the “ELV1S 30 #1 Hits” set re-entered the charts at #35. 

The DVD “The King Of Rock’n’Roll” dropped off the Australian Music DVD chart from last week’s listing at #24.

(Source: FECC / The King’s World)

Thursday, July 23, 2015

July 23 - Italian Tribute Magazine

Released in Italy is a new magazine celebrating Elvis’ 80-year anniversary. It includes a double CD with 36 tracks. 

(Source: Elvis And His Music / Graceland Randers)

Wednesday, July 22, 2015

July 22 - Budget Releases

An unknown label has announced a new CD “Good Rockin' Tonight”. This contains well-known 50’s songs, where at least some of the tracks are live recordings. Due for release on July 31, 2015.

Platinum Legends has announced a new CD: “Elvis Presley - Rock & Roll Legends”. This contains only well-known songs. Due for release on August 7, 2015.

(Source: Elvis And His Music / Amazon)

July 22 - Japanese Re-issues

Sony Music Japan released ten classic albums including "The Sun Sessions". The complete line-up: Elvis Presley – Elvis – Elvis’ Gold Records - Elvis’ Gold Records, Vol. 2 - G.I. Blues - Blue Hawaii - Elvis’ Golden Records, Volume 3 - Elvis That’s The Way It Is - Elvis Aloha From Hawaii and The Sun Sessions. 

(Source: Elvis World Japan / Elvis Aktuell)

Tuesday, July 21, 2015

July 21 - Elvis Loves Studio B.

The UK based Not Now Music released the 3 CD-set "Elvis Love Songs" on a 3 LP set on 180 Gr. red vinyl. 

LP 1:
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?

LP 2:
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.

LP 3:
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.

RCA Studio A placed on National Register of Historic Places
 
A storied recording studio on Nashville's Music Row that was once slated to be demolished to make way for a luxury condo development has been named to the National Register of Historic Places.

The designation of the RCA Victor Studios Building, better known as RCA Studio A, was announced by the National Park Service on Friday. It makes the site eligible to get federal tax credits and qualify for historic preservation grants.

The studio was developed by country music legend Chet Atkins in 1964, and the likes of Elvis Presley, Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings have recorded music there. Singer-songwriter Ben Folds has rented the studio for 12 years and led efforts to save the space that culminated in philanthropist Aubrey Preston's last-minute purchase of the property from the developer in October.

"It seemed to me to be a little bit of a tipping point if an incredible studio like this on Music Row was just to disappear in the dead of night," Folds said earlier this year. "I felt like the identity of Nashville needed to remain."

Music Row has long been home to an eclectic mix of recording studios, record label buildings, publishing houses and music industry office space. But its location just southeast of downtown has also made it a prime target for development.

Like many other nondescript buildings on Music Row, little on the exterior suggests what's happening inside Studio A, which has a recording room large enough to hold a full orchestra. Similar rooms that were once in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Mexico and Rome no longer exist.

The campaign to save the studio helped spawn a larger effort to save Music Row from development. City planning officials in February issued a moratorium on new proposals to raze or significantly alter buildings that helped build up Nashville's reputation as the capital of country music.

The moratorium, which does not affect previously-approved projects, could run for a year and a half while officials work on a comprehensive plan to balance growth with the history of Music Row.


The plans are to the Studio A doors to the public on October 3 in celebration of 50 years on Music Row and the first year of its rebirth.

(Source: Elvis Aktuell / ABC News)

Monday, July 20, 2015

July 20 - Songwriter Carson Died

Wayne Carson, a songwriter known for penning the Elvis Presley / Willie Nelson classic"Always on My Mind" (co-written with Johnny Christopher and Mark James) and the Box Tops / Joe Cocker hit "The Letter", died early Monday morning. He was 72.

Carson had suffered from various health issues and had been in hospice care for the past month.

Born in Colorado to musicians who performed under the stage names "Shorty & Sue," Carson grew up around music and began playing guitar at age 14 after hearing finger-picking great Merle Travis on record. He got his first big cut when Eddy Arnold recorded Somebody Like Me and took it to the top of the country charts in 1966.

Carson's biggest success came with Always on My Mind. The song had been recorded by Brenda Lee in 1972 and later covered by Elvis Presley. Elvis Presley's 1972 recording of the song was a Top 20 hit, while Willie Nelson's soft, bittersweet recording a decade later would top the country music charts and win three Grammy Awards: Song of the Year, Best Country Song and Best Male Country Vocal Performance. Nelson's version proved so popular that Always on My Mind was named the Country Music Association's song of the year in both 1982 and 1983, leading the organization to change its voting procedures so that a song could win the award only once. Pop group the Pet Shop Boys also found chart success with the song. In total more than 300 versions of the song have been recorded.

(Source: Tennesean / ElvisMatters)

Saturday, July 18, 2015

July 18 - Rip It Up On TV

Two new budget import-releases appeared eBay; “Elvis As Seen On TV” and "Elvis Presley In Living Stereo - Rip It Up”. From the listings on eBay:

As Seen On TV
Released for the first time on CD some great highlights from all of Elvis’ TV appearances 1956 – 1977. From the very first beginnings to the final curtain... it’s all here on 1 disc. But there’s more. Real rarities are tv commercials for the ‘68 comeback show’ ‘Aloha From Hawaii’ and ‘Elvis in Concert’ (1977). And don’t forget the stunning full color shot cover picture take at the Steve Allen show. This beauty comes with a 4 page booklet, with lots of pics, newspaper ads and TV magazines. 
Click on image for tracks. 

Rip It Up

This great new silver disc release, contains 25 50’s and early 60’s Elvis songs in Living Stereo! For the very first time you can hear all these great (original mono) recordings in the full stereo sound. And... it sounds really amazing!

In the past there have been many Electronic Stereo records released by RCA, but they sounded really awful. But... it was stereo, and people wanted stereo so … But this new release shows how you can really make a true mono to stereo sound, and it still sounds perfect to your ears. Here are the 50’s rockers in true stereo blasting out of your speakers! You will be blown away ! These are professionaly created stereo tracks from the original mono recordings. Judge for yourself, you won’t be dissapointed! A very limited edition. Stunning 4 page booklet in jewel case.

Tracks Rip It Up
Rip It Up / A Fool Such As I / One Night / Paralyzed / Don’t / Wear My Ring Around Your Neck / Mean Woman Blues / I Was The One / Ready Teddy / Blue Moon / Little Sister / Don’t Be Cruel / Dixieland Rock / Mystery Train / Blue Suede Shoes / Follow That Dream / Baby Let’s Play House / All Shook Up / Hound Dog / Young And Beautiful / My Baby Left Me / A Big Hunk O’ Love / Teddy Bear / Don’t Leave Me Now What A Wonderful Life.

(Source: eBay)

Friday, July 17, 2015

July 17 - Songwriters Hall of Fame

Due for release from the Rock Legends import-label is the CD "Las Vegas' Voice - Volume 1 - Rock Legends" containing the February 3, 1974 Midnight Show performance. 
Note: This concert was previously released by the Straight Arrow import label as "With A Humble Heart". 

From the press-release:
Coming soon from the Rock Legends label is the first volume of "Las Vegas' Voice", featuring the complete February 3, 1974 Midnight show. It's not often recordings from Elvis' 10th concert season in Las Vegas were released in such good quality. This show is taken from an unreleased original booth recording and way above average from the standard audience recording. The sound quality is excellent and reveal altogether that Elvis was happy to be back in Vegas, especially with his new contract for appearing only two weeks instead of the usual four weeks up to the August 1973 season. Besides the only released soundboard from the January / February Las Vegas season this is certainly one of the best sounding show ever put out from this engagement. Watch out for the second volume with a complete unreleased show from the very same season! 

Tracks:

01. Introduction: Also Sprach Zarathustra - 02. C. C. Rider - 03. I Got A Woman / Amen - 04. Love Me - 05. Trying To Get To You - 06. Sweet Caroline - 07. Love Me Tender - 08. Johnny B. Goode - 09. Hound Dog - 10. Fever - 11. Polk Salad Annie - 12. Killing Me Softly ( featuring Voice ) - 13. Spanish Eyes - 14. Why Me Lord? - 15. Suspicious Minds - 16. Band Introductions - 17. I Can't Stop Loving You - 18. Help Me - 19. An American Trilogy - 20. Let Me Be There (with reprise) - 21. The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face - 22. Can't Help Falling In Love - 23. Closing Vamp .

Suspicious Hall Of Fame

The Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame will have four new members later this year. Rosanne Cash, Mark James, Even Stevens and Craig Wiseman will be inducted during the organization’s annual ceremony on October 11, 2015 James, Stevens and Wiseman celebrated the news with friends and family Thursday morning at a private gathering on Music Row. 

Pop songs don’t get much bigger than the ones James has in his catalog. In addition to Elvis Presley’s “Suspicious Minds” and Willie Nelson’s “Always On My Mind,” the Texas-bred songsmith wrote “Hooked On a Feeling,” which was heard by millions in last year’s “Guardians of the Galaxy” movie. 

The four songwriters will be inducted at the Hall of Fame’s annual gala, taking place Sunday, October 11 at the Music City Center in Nashville.

(Source: FECC / ElvisMatters)

Wednesday, July 15, 2015

July 15 - Charts

The CD "Heart And Soul" climbed from #19 to #18 on the Billboard Country Catalogue Album chart for the week ending July 25, 2015. 

The “The Real... Elvis” re-entered the Irish Album chart at #98 this week. 

The “ELV1S 30 #1 Hits” compilation is a re-entry at #84 on the Scottish Album charts. 

The “ELV1S 30 #1 Hits” compilation re-entered the Dutch MidPrice Album chart at #49. 

The “The Essential Elvis Presley“ climbed from #18 to #17 on the Belgian Ultratop MidPrice Album chart. 

The 4 disc DVD set “Music Legends: Elvis Presley” dropped off the Irish Music DVD chart. 

The DVD "The King Of Rock’n’Roll" climbed from #24 to #17 on the Australian Music DVD chart. 

One Week In August 1972

The Rock Legends double CD import-release "One Week In August 1972". Both concerts on this set have previously been released. 

From the original press-release:

The first CD features the opening show of August 4, 1972 recorded from the audience and in great quality for such recordings, certainly one of the best sounding audience from that year. The original tape is missing a few songs and those were replaced with the songs from the first concert of the second night and extra bonus tracks from that dinner show, including his first live version of '' Fever ''. The sound of these audience recordings were remastered from the original recordings for the best quality possible.

A week later at the August 12, 1972 M.S. was still in control and has changed a bit the line up and went back to what would become his standard, however since his opening he added some songs performed that year like '' For The Good Times '' and '' Until It's Time For You To Go '', a few others just made it back into the show ; Polk Salad Annie, Suspicious Minds, I Got A Woman / Amen and Proud Mary. This second CD features a show of excellent quality and recorded from the soundboard. 

(Source: FECC / Elvis Aktuell / The King's World)

Tuesday, July 14, 2015

July 14 - The Man From Memphis In Fine Form

The Straight Arrow import label announced the release of a new 2 CD set entitled "The Man From Memphis". It features the May 13, 1973 3 AM show as recorded from the audience at the Sahara Tahoe Hotel, Lake Tahoe, NV. and the November 26, 1976 as recorded from the audience at the Memorial Coliseum, Portland, OR. shows.

From the press-release:
Coming out soon is the 6th and last volume of Straight Arrow's "From The Rick Rennie Master Tapes" series - a double-digipak CD release, called "The man From Memphis", featuring the May 13th 3am 1973 and Portland, November 26th, 1976 shows.

Every great story have its beginning and the end. With this special release, we conclude our „Rick Rennie recordings“ series. We are delighted with the good feedback and excellent reviews that this series has received thus far. And it has been a pleasure to give Rick's recordings new life, attention and care that they deserve.

Technically, Lake Tahoe show is one of Rick's finest recordings. Yes we are aware that FTD label released a soundboard of this highly unusual concert back in 2003, but we feel that this tape is very much listenable and definitely more atmospheric, compared with rather sterile soundboard that they put out. Additionally, Rick's recording captured moments from this show that are not on the soundboard, including the reprise of the 2001 Theme and the second Closing vamp.

The Portland '76 show was the last one captured by Rick. A lot had happened in the three years between the shows on this release, but the Portland concert is actually a pretty decent one for the time. Elvis had lost some weight since the previous tour, he was in good voice, and he seemed a little more upbeat at these shows, though he still looked tired in photos.
Without guys like Rick Rennie, we would be missing many interesting pieces of the Elvis story. Rick had the foresight to capture the excitement of Elvis in concert, and his body of work deserves a place in the collection of every serious Elvis scholar.

As with every Straight Arrow’s upgrade, this beautifully designed double-digipak edition is limited to 500 copies. If you have enjoyed previous five volumes of the "From The Rick Rennie Master Tapes" series, you cannot go wrong with our "Man From Memphis" set!

Tracklist:
CD1 – Sunday, May 13th, 1973 3am, Sahara Tahoe Hotel, Lake Tahoe, NV
01. Introduction: Also Sprach Zarathustra #1 - 02. C. C. Rider - 03. I Got A Woman / Amen - 04. Help Me Make It Through The Night - 05. Steamroller Blues - 06. You Gave Me A Mountain - 07. Love Me - 08. Blue Suede Shoes - 09. Medley: Long Tall Sally / Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On / Mama Can't Dance / Shake Rattle & Roll / Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On - 10. My Way - 11. Hound Dog - 12. What Now My Love - 13. Suspicious Minds - 14. Introductions of singers, musicians, orchestra - 15. I'll Remember You - 16. I Can't Stop Loving You - 17. Bridge Over Troubled Water (with reprise) - 18. Funny How Time Slips Away - 19. It's Over - 20. Release Me - 21. Faded Love - 22. Can't Help Falling In Love - 23. Closing Vamp #1 - 24. Also Sprach Zarathustra #2 - 25. Closing Vamp #2 / Announcements.

CD2 – Friday, November 26th, 1976, Memorial Coliseum, Portland, OR
01. Introduction: Also Sprach Zarathustra - 02. C. C. Rider - 03. I Got A Woman (with false start) / Amen - 04. Love Me - 05. If You Love Me (Let Me Know) - 06. You Gave Me A Mountain - 07. Jailhouse Rock - 08. It's Now Or Never - 09. All Shook Up - 10. Medley: (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel - 11. And I Love You So - 12. Fever - 13. America (The Beautiful) - 14. Introductions of singers, musicians, orchestra - 15. Early Mornin' Rain - 16. What'd I Say - 17. Johnny B. Goode - 18. Drum Solo (Ronnie Tutt) - 19. Bass Solo (Blues - Jerry Scheff) - 20. Piano Solo (Tony Brown) - 21. Electric Piano Solo (David Briggs) - 22. Love Letters - 23. School Day - 24. Hurt - 25. Hound Dog - 26. Danny Boy (Sherrill Nielsen) - 27. Walk With Me (Sherrill Nielsen) - 28. Funny How Times Slip Away - 29. Hawaiian Wedding Song - 30. Blue Christmas - 31. That's All Right - 32. Can't Help Falling In Love - 33. Closing Vamp.


Elvis In Fine Form

The E.P. Collector import label announced the release of the CD "Elvis In Fine Form" containing the February 9, 1973 Midnight Show performance as r
ecorded live at the Hilton Hotel, Las Vegas, NV.

From the press-release:
Expected soon is new CD entitled ”Elvis In Fine Form” (label E.P. Collector, EPC 2015-03) recorded in Las Vegas, NV, February 9th, Midnight show.

It's not often that a totally "unknown" concert recording turns up, so we are rather pleased to be able to release this unreleased audience-recorded tape for collectors worldwide. And a rather nice one it is too, with EP in fine form and presenting a more solid and vocally satisfying show than at some of the other shows from this engagement. This tape, recorded during the February 9th, 1973 midnight show, it's very good-sounding recording, and Elvis' strong, no-nonsense delivery that night makes this release a worthwhile addition to your collection!
The CD is packaged in a nicely designed digipak with some less-known, cool images taken on January 14, 1973, in Hawaii.

Tracklist:
01. Also Sprach Zarathustra (2001 Theme) - 02. C. C. Rider - 03. Medley: I Got A Woman / Amen - 04. Love Me Tender - 05. You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me - 06. Steamroller Blues - 07. You Gave Me A Mountain - 08. Fever - 09. Love Me - 10. Blue Suede Shoes - 11. Heartbreak Hotel - 12. Johnny B. Goode - 13. Hound Dog - 14. What Now My Love - 15. Suspicious Minds - 16. Band Introductions - 17. I Can’t Stop Loving You - 18. An American Trilogy - 19. Can't Help Falling In Love - 20. Closing Vamp.
Running time: 45:55


Final Curtain - The Ultimate Edition


Just out now, and also completely sold out before it went into distribution is "Final Curtain - The Ultimate Edition". It features 14 CD's + 7-DVD's. Tracklisting can be seen on the back cover (click image). 

CD 1 - West Palm Beach, FL (13.02.1977):
Little Sister - You Gave Me A Mountain - Blue Suede Shoes - O Sole Mio / It's Now Or Never - My Way - All Shook Up / Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel - And I Love You So - Fever - Blueberry Hill - Hurt - Hound Dog - Jailhouse Rock - Can't Help Falling In Love


St. Petersburg, FL (14.02.1977):
If You Love Me (Let Me Know) - You Gave Me A Mountain - O Sole Mio / It's Now Or Never - All Shook Up / Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel - And I Love You So - Fever - My Way - Blueberry Hill - Love Letters - Introductions / Hail Hail Rock n' Roll - Hurt - Hound Dog - Can't Help Falling In Love - Closing Vamp

CD 2 - Orlando FL (15.02.1977):
Love Me - If You Love Me (Let Me Know) - You Gave Me A Mountain - O Sole Mio / It's Now Or Never - All Shook Up / Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel - Help Me - Big Boss Man - My Way - Introductions - Hurt - Hound Dog - Can't Help Falling In Love

Columbia, SC (18.02.1977): Release Me - Tryin' To Get To You
Charlotte, NC (20.02.1977): Fairytale - My Way - Moody Blue - How Great Thou Art
Norman, OK (26.03.1977): Blue Christmas
Abilene, TX (27.03.1977): My Way - That's All Right
Alexandria, VA (29.03.1977): Bosom Of Abraham / You Better Run
Alexandria, VA (30.03.1977): And I Love You So - Fever - Hurt
Kalamazoo, MI (26.04.1977): Heartbreak Hotel - Blue Suede Shoes

CD 3 - Montgomery, AL (16.02.1977):
You Gave Me A Mountain - O Sole Mio / It's Now Or Never - Little Sister - Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel - My Way - Polk Salad Annie - Hurt - Hound Dog - Elvis Talks / Striptease - here No One Stands Alone - Unchained Melody - Can't Help Falling In Love / Closing Vamp

Charlotte, NC (21.02.1977):
Are You Lonesome Tonight - Reconsider Baby - Love Me - Moody Blue - You Gave Me A Mountain - Jailhouse Rock - O Sole Mio / It's Now Or Never - Little Sister - Teddy Bear / Dont Be Cruel - My Way - Release Me - Hurt - Why Me Lord

CD 4 - Saginaw, MI (03.05.1977):
That's All Right - Trouble - I Got A Woman / Amen - Love Me - Happy Birthday To You - Hound Dog - Trying To Get To You - Jailhouse Rock - My Way - Little Sister - Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel - Help Me - O Sole Mio / It's Now Or Never - Love Me Tender - Why Me Lord - Polk Salad Annie / Microphone Change Over - Polk Salad Annie - Mystery Train / Tiger Man - Can't Help Falling In Love

Toledo, OH (23.04.1977): Polk Salad Annie
Duluth, MN (29.04.1977): Big Boss Man - Bridge Over Troubled Water
Chicago, IL (01.05.1977): My Way
Chicago, IL (02.051977): Fairytale - My Way

CD 5 - Madison, WI (24.06.1977):
See See Rider - I Got A Woman / Amen - Love Me - If You Love Me (Let Me Know) - You Gave Me A Mountain - Jailhouse Rock - O Sole Mio / It's Now Or Never - One Night - Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel - And I Love You So - Danny Boy - Walk With Me - Love Me Tender - Introductions - Early Morning Rain - What'd I Say - Johnny B. Goode - Introductions Continued - I Really Don't Want To Know - Introductions Conclusion - Hound Dog - Introduction Of Vernon Presley - Can't Help Falling In Love - Closing Vamp

CD 6 - Indianapolis, IN (26.06.1977 - Audience Recording):
Also Sprach Zarathustra - See See Rider - I Got A Woman / Amen - Love Me - Fairytale - You Gave Me A Mountain - Jailhouse Rock - O Sole Mio / It's Now Or Never - Little Sister - Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel - Please Release Me - I Can't Stop Loving You - Bridge Over Troubled Water - Introductions - Early Morning Rain - What'd I Say - Johnny B. Goode - Introductions Continued - I Really Don't Want To Know - Introductions Conclusion - Hurt - Hound Dog - Special Thanks By Elvis - Can't Help Falling In Love - Closing Vamp

DVD 1 - Super-8 Magic - Volume 1:
22.05.1977 - Largo, MD (Capital Centre); 23.05.1977 - Providence, RI (Civic Center); 24.05.1977 - Augusta, ME (Civic Center); 25.05.1977 - Rochester, NY (War Memorial); 26.05.1977 - Binghampton, NY (Broome County Veterans Memorial); 24.05.1977 - Binghampton, NY (Broome County Veterans Memorial); 28.05.1977 - Philadelphia, PA (Spectrum); 29.05.1977 - Baltimore, MD (Civic Center); 01.06.1977 - Macon, GA (Coliseum)

DVD 2 - Super-8 Magic - Volume 2:
18.06.1977 - Kansas City, MO (Kemper Arena); 24.06.1977 - Madison, WI (Dane County Coliseum); 25.06.1977 - Cincinnati, OH (Riverfront Coliseum); 26.06.1977 - Indianapolis, IN (Market Square Arena); 20.02.1977 - Charlotte, NC (Coliseum); 01.05.1977 - Chicago, IL (Chicago Stadium); 02.05.1977 - Chicago, IL (Chicago Stadium)

DVD 3 - Omaha, NB (19.06.1977):
Also Sprach Zarathustra - See See Rider - I Got A Woman / Amen - That's All Right - Are You Lonesome Tonight - Love Me - Fairytale - Little Sister - Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel - And I Love You So - Jailhouse Rock - How Great Thou Art - Introductions - Early Mornin' Rain - What'd I Say - Johnny B. Goode - Introductions - I Really Don't Want To Know - Introductions - Hurt - Hound Dog - 0 Sole Mio / It's Now Or Never - Can't Help Falling In Love - Closing Vamp

DVD 4 - Rapid City, SD (21.06.1977):
Backstage Footage - Also Sprach Zarathustra - See See Rider - I Got A Woman / Amen - That's All Right - Are You Lonesome Tonight - Love Me - If You Love Me (Let Me Know) - You Gave Me A Mountain - Jailhouse Rock - 0 Sole Mio / It's Now Or Never - Trying To Get To You - Hawaiian Wedding Song - Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel - My Way - Introductions - I Really Don't Want To Know - Introduction Of Vernon Presley & Ginger Alden - Hurt - Hound Dog - Unchained Melody - Can't Help Falling In Love - Closing Vamp

DVD 5:
Elvis In Concert (The CBS-TV-Special) - CBS TV Trailer (02.10.977)

DVD 6: Elvis Is Dead

Bonus Soundboard Recordings - CD 1:
Alexandria, LA (30.03.1977) - Toledo, OH (23.04.1977)
Bonus - CD 2:
Ann Arbor, FL (24.04.1977) - Kalamazoo, MI (26.04.1977)
Bonus - CD 3:
Omaha, NE (19.06.1977)
Bonus - CD 4:
Rapid City, SD (21.06.1977)
Bonus Audience Recordings Of June 1977 - CD 5:
Lincoln (20.06.1977)
Bonus - CD 6:
Des Moines; IA (23.06.1977)
Bonus - CD 7:
Cincinatti, OH (25.06.1977)
Bonus - CD 8:
Indianapolis, IN (26.06.1977)
Bonus - DVD:

Elvis In Concert: The Alternate CBS TV Special

(Source: FECC / Elvis Club Berlin)

Monday, July 13, 2015

July 13 - Elvis Presley Hologram

The man who once ruled Las Vegas could be returning to the stage next year in a new way thanks to the wonders of modern technology. According to a recent interview with the managing editor of Pulse Evolution, the company is working on a hologram of Elvis Presley for use in a live concert setting.

Pulse Evolution currently owns the rights to creating holograms of Presley, Marilyn Monroe, and Michael Jackson. The company was responsible for last year’s jaw-dropping Michael Jackson hologram performance at the Billboard Music Awards.

If the Jackson example is any indication, a full show performed by a Presley hologram could change the game when it comes to the deceased entertainer’s drawing power. Presley was arguably the biggest draw in the history of Las Vegas, and it’s not a stretch to imagine a realistic, hologram of The King drawing thousands back to the city that he once ruled. Presley sold-out 636 consecutive shows in Las Vegas between 1969 and 1976.

Rudy Mazzocchi, Pulse Evolution’s managing editor, recently spoke about the process involved in creating the holograms during an appearance on the Sarah Westall Radio Show. He confirmed the 15 show opportunity for the Presley hologram to perform in Las Vegas next year. Mazzocchi also spoke of how simple the process would be for the hologram to tour the world, requiring only a crew to set up the stage equipment and a thumb drive containing the hologram’s file. Unlike real-life entertainers, the show’s producers don’t have to worry about travel, security, or keeping the stars happy backstage.

There is no word yet on which version of Presley will grace the stage in Las Vegas, but one would imagine it would be an early 1970s Elvis. Though the process of creating the hologram involves creating a hyper-realistic animation of the star, the highest quality film of Presley performing on stage which could assist in the process comes from 1970’s Elvis: That’s The Way It Is and 1972’s Elvis: On Tour, documentaries that were shot on 35mm and 16mm high resolution film.

By comparison, Presley’s 1968 television special Elvis, commonly referred to now as the ’68 Comeback Special, the 1973 television special Elvis: Aloha From Hawaii, and the 1977 television special Elvis In Concert were recorded on two inch video tape. Thus, the video quality of the concert footage from 1968, 1973, and 1977 is far below what was captured by the 35mm and 16mm cameras during the 1970 and 1972 Elvis concert documentaries.

While Pulse Evolution would need to clarify, it would seem that the ability to create a crystal clear hologram from the Presley performances filmed on two inch video tape could be more challenging. The same goes for a 1956 era Elvis, as the concert film available from the 1950s lacks in picture quality.

No location has been announced for the Presley hologram performances, but the new Elvis Presley Theatre at the Westgate Hotel and Casino would seem like the most obvious location. The theatre is where Elvis performed between 1969 and 1976. At that time, the building was known as the International Hotel (1969-1971) and Las Vegas Hilton (1971-2012). Elvis Presley Enterprises began working with the hotel and casino this year with an Elvis exhibit (featuring artifacts on loan from Graceland) and a limited run Elvis impersonator show in the theatre which starred Martin Fontaine.

(Source: Examiner)

Saturday, July 11, 2015

July 11 - Vinyl Love

Due for release from Not Now Music on July 20, 2015 is the 3 LP vinyl edition of the “Elvis Love Songs”. This re-issue comes on 180g red vinyl, packed in a gatefold cover. 

Product Description:
The Elvis recordings collected here have now retained their appeal for over half a century. As Eighties chart-topper and confirmed Presley fan Huey Lewis says, 'The best way to appreciate his greatness is just to go back and play some of the old records. Time has a way of being very unkind to old records, but Elvis' keep getting better and better.' In other words - if you love music, you'll love Elvis' love songs... especially on this superb 3LP gatefold edition on glorious red vinyl!

Elvis Live In Las Vegas

The 2001 “Live In Las Vegas” 4 CD box from Sony will be re-issued in a smaller version on September 18, 2015. 

(Source: Amazon)

Thursday, July 09, 2015

July 10 - The Jungle Room App

Elvis Presley Enterprises released a new version of the Elvis Presley app entitled The Jungle Room App.

Description:
Decorated with exotic plants and animal patterns, the Jungle Room is where Elvis and his close friends would congregate at Graceland. Now, Elvis Presley's Jungle Room app allows passionate Elvis fans around the world to hang out and discuss music, movies, events and anything else you can dream up! 

Users can share their favorite Elvis stories and show off their Elvis Presley record collection all from within the mobile community.

Download Elvis Presley's Jungle Room and get exclusive access to Q&A sessions with real members from Elvis Presley's life.

From iTunes:
Elvis Presley's Jungle Room is now the exclusive mobile destination for passionate Elvis Presley fans to interact and discuss Elvis-themed topics. Learn about Elvis events near you and meet up with passionate Elvis fans. Earn Elvis-themed badges as you create threads and contribute to discussions. Participate in Q&A sessions and get access to exclusive content.

More info: http://www.jungleroomapp.com

Amami Teneramente

Due for release on September 16, 2015 in Italy is the region 2 DVD "Amami Teneramente" (original title "Loving You")

Weekend Charts

The DVD "Music Legends: Elvis Presley" remained steady at #4 on the Irish Music DVD chart.

The "Heart And Soul" rises from #21 to #19 on the Billboard Country Catalog Album Chart for the week ending July 18, 2015.

The DVD "The King Of Rock’n’Roll" dropped from #18 to #24 on the Australian Music DVD chart. 

The “The Essential Elvis Presley“ dropped from #11 to #18 on the Belgian Ultratop MidPrice Album chart.

(Source: The Jungle Room APP / iTunes / Elvis Club Berlin / The King's World / FECC)

July 09 - Elvis Encore Performance V

Joseph A. Tunzi and Jat Publishing has announced a new book; "Elvis Encore Performance V". This new book includes pictures from Chicago 1957. At the same time it seems like the earlier announced book "The Definitive Vinyl Artwork of Elvis Presley 1956-1977" now finally are out.

(Source: Elvis And His Music / JAT Publishing)

Wednesday, July 08, 2015

July 08 - Marie Claire Loves Elvis

The August 2015 edition of Marie Claire UK edition features an article on Elvis Presley entitled "Elvis Presley - The Unseen Pictures (Behind The Scenes With The King)" featuring images by Alfred Wertheimer.

Two New Elvis Markers
 
On August 11, the Shelby County Historical Commission will be dedicating another two markers as part of Elvis Week. The commission will be commemorating Elvis’ hangout the Poplar Tunes record shop as well as the Lauderdale Courts, where the Presley family once resided. 

The markers are part of an “Elvis trail” of sorts that the commission has been developing over the last few years. In 2014, the commission placed a marker at the Family Dollar store at Chelsea and Thomas. The former location of American Sound Studios was where Presley recorded his 1969 “comeback” sessions, and where producer Chips Moman and the studio’s house band conjured up over a 100 chart hits.

The August 11 ceremony at the Poplar Tunes site – 308 Poplar, now home to ASAP Bail Bonds – will take place at 10 am and be followed with a second ceremony at the west side of the Lauderdale Courts (282 North Second Street) at 11 am.

There will be a special "Walk in the Footsteps of Elvis" tour between the two locations, which are four blocks apart. The SCHC has plans for several other music-related dedications in 2016, including markers for the former radiostation WHBQ at the Chisca Hotel and a Johnny Cash dedication in the Cooper-Young neighborhood.

(Source: Elvis Travle Service / ElvisMatters)

Monday, July 06, 2015

July 06 - 80 Years Of Elvis Compilations

Volume 2 of the new "80 Years of Elvis" has been released by Topix Media. This 100 page volume chronicles Elvis on the road in 1955. Volume 3, "80 -Year Scrapbook" will hit the newsstands September 1, 2015.

Camden / RCA Re-issues

An unknown label has just re-issued four Camden / RCA titles. "Elvis Blue" and three volumes in the "The Elvis Presley Collection". The "Elvis Blue" is a reproduction of an Australian 1983 best of… - collection with the same name and contains 25 tracks.

From the publisher:
Elvis Blue was a 1983 19-track LP, with a beautiful painted Elvis portrait on the front sleeve. As the title suggest all tracks on this album had the word ‘Blue’ in it. It was released on the Australian Starcall label. The album was a great success, but it was never released on silver pressed CD. Until now! Housed in sealed card sleeve, this is a stunning miniature vinyl-look CD release, that also includes some special bonus tracks.

Track list Elvis Blue:
1. Blue Moon, 2. Blue Moon Of Kentucky, 3. Milkcow Blues Boogie, 4. Blue Suede Shoes, 5. When My Blue Moon Turns To Gold Again, 6. Mean Woman Blues, 7. Blueberry Hill, 8. Blue Christmas, 9. A Mess Of Blues, 10. GI Blues, 11. Blue Hawaii, 12. Beach Boy Blues, 13. Something Blue, 14. Blue River, 15. Indescribably Blue, 16. Steamroller Blues, 17. Goodtime Charlie's Got The Blues, 18. Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain, 19. Moody Blue
Bonus: 20. Blue Suede Shoes ( 1960 movie version ), 21. Blue Hawaii ( 1973 – take 2 ), 22. Good Time Charlie’s Got The BLues ( unedited string overdub master ), 23. Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain ( take 2 ), 24. Moody Blue ( take 3 ), 25. (Blue) Spanish Eyes.

The Elvis Presley Collection

The same unknown label also announced a new CD series; "The Elvis Presley Collection". This series of total three CDs is a reproduction of LP-collections released between 1968 and 1975 by RCA/ Camden.

From the Publisher:
Out now on silver pressed CD in beautiful sealed cardsleeves, a great collection of classic Camden / RCA albums. From 1968 to 1975, RCA Camden issued a series of compilation albums. This output primarily consisted of repackaging’s of Presley's 1960s-era movie soundtrack recordings. These albums were very successful, due to the low budget price and the great gatefold album sleeves. For many (young) fans these albums were their introduction to the music of Elvis Presley. Although these albums did not always contained the very best of Elvis’ recordings, the Camden albums taught many customers one valuable lesson: you may find gold, when you least expect it ! "The Elvis Presley Collection" contained 3 volumes. These albums are among the best known Camden releases. And finally, if only for nostalgic reasons, they are released on shiny silver CD. Looking like miniature vinyl albums, these releases will bring back many of the happy memories from the good ol’ days. They come sealed and include some special bonus tracks. More for you money! Please note: only available as a limited edition of 400 copies. 

Tracks Volume 1:
1. You'll Never Walk Alone, 2. Who Am I?, 3. Let Us Pray, 4. Peace In The Valley, 5. We Call On Him, 6. I Believe, 7. It Is No Secret, 8. Sing You Children, 9. Take My Hand Precious Lord, 10. Swing Down Sweet Chariot, 11. Down By The Riverside & When The Saints Go Marching In, 12. They Remind Me Too Much Of You, 13. Confidence, 14. Frankie & Johnny, 15. Guitar Man, 16. Long Legged Girl, 17. You Don't Know Me, 18. How Would You Like To Be, 19. Big Boss Man, 20. Old Macdonald
Bonus: 21. Swing Down Sweet Chariot (1968 Overdubbed Master), 22. You Don’t Know Me (Movie Version), 23. Guitar Man (Re-Recording), 24. Sing You Children (Take 18 – 19), 25. Who Am I ? (Undubbed Master), 26. We Call On Him (Take 3), 27. How Would You Like To Be (Movie Version)

Tracks Volume 2:
1. Separate Ways, 2. Sentimental Me, 3. In My Way, 4. I Met Her Today, 5. What Now, What Next, Where To, 6. Always On My Mind, 7. I Slipped, I Stumbled, I Fell, 8. Is It So Strange, 9. Forget Me Never, 10. Old Shep, 11. C'mon Everybody, 12. A Whistling Tune, 13. I'll Be There (If You Ever Want Me), 14. I Love Only One Girl, 15. Easy Come, Easy Go, 16. Santa Lucia, 17. Tonight Is So Right For Love, 18. Guadalajara, 19. Angel, 20. A Little Less Conversation, 21. Follow That Dream, 22. Long Legged Girl (With The Short Dress On)
Bonus: 23. Separate Ways (Take 25), 24. Always On My Mind (Unedited Overdub Master), 25. I Met Her Today (Take 6), 26. C’mon Everybody (Movie Version Takes 6 – 7), 27. Long Legged Girl (Alternate Master), 28. A Little Less Conversation (Take 10)

Tracks Volume 3:
1. What Every Woman Lives For, 2. Please Don't Stop Loving Me, 3. Change Of Habit, 4. Come Along, 5. Shout It Out, 6. Beginner's Luck, 7. Clean Up Your Own Back Yard, 8. Rubberneckin', 9. Edge Of Reality, 10. Petunia The Gardener's Daughter, 11. Hard Luck, 12. Have A Happy, 13. Flaming Star, 14. Wonderful World, 15. Light Life, 16. All I Needed Was The Rain, 17. Too Much Monkey Business, 18. Yellow Rose Of Texas / The Eyes Of Texas, 19. She's A Machine, 20. Do The Vega, 21. Tiger Man, 
Bonus: 22. Please Don’t Stop Loving Me (Take 9), 23. Edge Of Reality (Take 6), 24. Petunia The Gardener’s Daughter (Take 1), 25. Wonderful World (Take 7 – Movie Version), 26. Night Life (Take 3), 27. She’s A Machine (Take 14), 28. Too Much Monkey Business (Re-Recording).

Elvis Tour Promoter Jerry Weintraub Dead Aged 77

Elvis' tour promoter and Hollywood mega-producer Jerry Weintraub, died Monday of heart failure in Santa Barbara, Calif. He was 77.
Weintraub who got the Ocean's Eleven franchise to the big screen had been in poor health recently. His recent project was executive-producer on the the war-and-politics satire The Brink, for HBO. He was a three-time Emmy winner, his most recent two coming in 2013 for the Liberace biopic 'Behind the Candelabra'. 


It was Weintraub who booked Elvis into Madison Square Gardens in 1972. He noted, "When I was 26, I started with $500, and $500 was a stretch at the time. I had Elvis and we started a tour in Miami Beach and we ended in San Diego. When I got to San Diego, I walked into the venue and my accountants came over and said: ‘Do you know how much money you’ve made on this tour?’ I said, ‘No, I have no idea, I just know we’ve been sold out of all the sessions we’re doing and everything’s great.’ And they said, ‘Well, you have $3-million in the bank.’ I said, ‘I have what? ... That’s not possible.’ I remember pulling back the curtain from backstage and I looked at all the people in the arena, 20,000 people, and it hit me. I said to myself, ‘My God, my life is never going to be the same. It’s changed. I got it. I did it.’  

Elvis was a total original. I grew up on his music and I loved him and it was like a bolt from heaven and I knew my life would never be the same. It was that moment, it was that defining moment. In most successful peoples lives, there is a moment that just happens and I knew it was gonna be like that.

In 1972 I booked Elvis in New York. It was 4 shows - four shows, that's 80,000 people for a music star. They came and slept outside Madison Square Garden for two weeks to get tickets. They slept. They brought beds. They brought cots. They brought bed roles. It was amazing. And that had never been done before. Nobody had done it - but I did it with Elvis." The New York-born exec got his start as a music manager and promoter, at one time working for John Denver and promoting concerts for the likes of Elvis, Frank Sinatra, Neil Diamond and Led Zeppelin. 

Fun In Acapulco

The MOCD label re-issued the "Fun In Acapulco" soundtrack with two additional bonussongs.

Tracks:

Fun In Acapulco - Vino Dinero Y Amor - Mexico - El Toro - Marguerita - The Bullfighter Was A Lady - (Theres) No Room To Rhumba In A Sports Car - I Think Im Gonna Like It Here - Bossa Nova Baby - You Can't Say No In Acapulco - Guadalajara  Bonus Songs: Love Me Tonight - Slowly But Surely

(Source: FECC / e-mail / Elvis Information Network)