June 30 - A King In The Making

Due for (re)release from Chartwell Books on October 17, 2017 is the book 'A King In The Making' by Alfred Wertheimer and Peter Guralnick. The book is a hardcover with 224 pages. 

Synopsis:

Alfred Wertheimer was born in Germany in 1930, came to America and settled in Brooklyn as a young boy. He took an early interest in architecture and design, which led him to Cooper Union, from which he graduated in 1951. In the spring of 1956, a series of commercial assignments for RCA Records led to a shoot of a newly signed singer named Elvis Presley. Instantly impressed, Wertheimer devoted four months of his own time to intensely shadow the young star. The result would be the most intimate and candid look at the future legend ever recorded. 

Peter Guralnick is an award-winning biographer of Elvis Presley and author of Last Train to Memphis and Careless Love. A music critic, screenwriter, and historian of American popular music, he is also the author of Dream Boogie: The Triumph of Sam Cooke.

Elvis at Madison Square Garden

The upcoming Follow That Dream cooperation with the Norwegian Flaming Star fan-club ’Elvis at Madison Square Garden’ is back from the printers. The book covers the three concerts by Elvis Presley at Madison Square Garden New York from June 09 to June 11, 1972. The book comes with a CD of the June 9th. 8.30 pm show. 

Elvis - All American Boy

The Elvis One compilation of alternate takes ‚All American Boy’ is out. It contains tracks from the year 1953 until 1960. 

(Source: FECC / Amazon / Flaming Star / Elvis Aktuell)

June 29 - Rolling Stone Collector

Elvis Presley is featured on the cover of the UK Record Collector magazine featuring the theme 'how to collect records properly'.  

The August edition of the German Rolling Stone Magazine features Elvis Presley on the cover and a big article inside on the 40th anniversary of Elvis Presley’s death. This magazine comes with a vinyl SUN single featuring the tracks 'Good Rockin’ Tonight' and 'Blue Moon'. 

(Source: Elvis Club Berlin / Record Collector Magazine / Rolling Stone Magazine)

June 28 - Love Me Tender

One of Elvis Presley's biggest hits is the latest song to be turned into a picture book, and part of an effort to introduce the King to a new generation. Dial Books for Young Readers told The Associated Press on Wednesday that a book based on "Love Me Tender" is coming out November 13, 2017. It will be illustrated by Stephanie Graegin and include an endnote by Presley's widow, Priscilla Presley. 

Dial Books is calling the new release "a heartwarming ode" to the parent-child bond. Presley died 40 years ago this summer, and representatives for his estate are planning a merchandise program for infants and toddlers. 

Elvis Presley - 40 Years On

Due for release from the SM originals label on August 11, 2017 is the sixty track  double CD 'Elvis Presley - 40 Years On'.

(Source: FECC / EM /  Amazon)

June 27 - Elvis Presley Manager Biopic The Colonel in Development

In September of this year, Marvel Comics begins to paint the close ties between music lovers and comic readers by publishing five comics under the name of Marvel Rock. A unique and limited collection, each giving tribute to a classic rock band or artist. One of the covers for Mighty Thor is based on the very first album, Elvis Presley, which released RCA in March '56.

Greatest Alternate Hits

Due for release on August 9, 2017 from the French VPI label is the vinyl double album '40th Anniversary  Best of Singles A & B' containing 32 hits in alternate versions. This release comes on 180 Gr. vinyl and is limited to 1000 copies. 

Vinyl No. 1 - Side A: I Got A Woman (Alternate Take) - Heartbreak Hotel (Take 5) - Shake, Rattle And Roll (Take 8) - I Want You, I Need You, I Love You (Take 15) - One Night Of Sin - Jailhouse Rock (Take 5) - King Creole (Take 18) - A Big Hunk O´ Love (Take 3)

Side B: A Fool Such As I (Take 8) - Stuck On You (Take 1) - I Feel So Bad (Take 1) - His Latest Flame (Take 2) - Can´t Help Falling In Love (Take 13) - Good Luck Charm (Take 1) - She´s Not You (Take 2) - One Broken Heart For Sale (Take 1)

Vinyl No. 2 - Side A: Blue Moon (Take  5) - Lawdy, Miss Clawdy (Take 12) - I Was The One (Take 7A) - I Beg Of You (Take 12) - That´s When Your Heartaches Begin (Take 6) - Loving You ( (Take 8 - Fast Version) - Treat Me Nice (Take 19 - Film Version) - Doncha´ Think It´s Time (Take 39)

Side B: I Need Your Love Tonight (Take 10) - Ain´t That Loving You Baby (Take 11) - I Got Stung (Take 16) - A Mess Of Blues (Take 1) - Fame And Fortune (Take 5) - Rock-A-Hula Baby (Take 3) - Little Sister (Take 3) - Just Tell Her Jim Said Hello (Take 1)

Elvis Presley Manager Biopic The Colonel in Development 

Spencer Proffer, Steve Binder, and Joe Berlinger are developing a feature film about Elvis Presley’s manger Colonel Tom Parker. Production is slated for early 2018. Parker, who died in 1997 at age 87, arrived in America as a 20-year old undocumented Dutch immigrant, and took great pains to hide his past. Before leaving Holland, he might have committed murder. 

The screenplay will be based on Alanna Nash’s book, “The Colonel: The Extraordinary Story of Colonel Tom Parker and Elvis Presley,” published by Simon & Schuster and one of four Presley books she authored. The team will work from an outline developed by Nash and Berlinger, and Nash will co-write the screenplay. Parker became Presley’s manager in 1956 shortly before the singer broke out with the single “Heartbreak Hotel.” He remained the manager until Presley’s death in 1977.  

“I have wanted to work with Joe for years, given his unique filmmaker’s eye toward marrying music-anchored stories with dramatic storytelling,” said Proffer. “Given that I am a big fan of his Metallica and Paul Simon films, plus Joe’s award-winning crime documentaries, he became my first choice to direct this evergreen and important film. Parker’s story has such a dark edge, and this is precisely why Berlinger’s combo of crime and music documentaries lends the perfect tone for the film.” 

Binder’s credits include producing and directing the 1968 NBC special “Elvis.” “I look forward to working with Spencer, Joe, and Alanna on the making of this film. The Colonel’s ‘real’ story has never been told, and I promise it will have you on the edge of your seat. I was there and I knew the Colonel. 

Move over P.T. Barnum, the ride is about to begin!” Berlinger was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary for 2011’s “Paradise Lost 3: Purgatory” and has received seven Emmy nominations. His credits include “Brother’s Keeper,” “Metallica: Some King of Monster,” “Crude,” “Under African Skies,” and “Intent to Destroy.” “Throughout my career I have tackled unexpected and surprising stories, going beyond the easy headline to get to the truth of the real story,” Berlinger said. “And in ‘The Colonel,’ I see the same exciting opportunity.” Berlinger is currently in pre-production for the feature film “Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile,” a Ted Bundy biopic starring Zac Efron. 

Elvis: Las Vegas April - May 1956

There is a new book out by Paul Berlard entitled 'Elvis: Las Vegas April - May 1956'. The book is a soft cover and has 235 pages. 

Synopsis:
On April 23, 1956. Elvis and his band - Scotty Moore, Bill Black and DJ. Fontana - began a two week engagement at the New Frontier Hotel in Los Vegas. Freddy Martin and his orchestra had been scheduled for a while, as was comedian Shecky Green. Elvis was a belated added attraction.

He was referred to as the "Atomic Powered Singer", since Nevada was where the first atomic bombs were developed. Elvis' manager probably thought the name would be catchy? What he had not figured on was how an older nightclub crowd react to Elvis.

It has been widely reported that Elvis bombed in Las Vegas, even that his contract was canceled after a week. That the middle-aged audience that could afford to visit Las Vegas at the time reacted coolly to Elvis is true enough, but his contract was never broken. Elvis dutifully soldiered on for the contracted two weeks, closing with his last performance on May 6, 1956.

It was Elvis' manager who bombed, proving early on that he had no clue about what made Elvis so popular. "Heartbreak Hotel" was a number one hit, his first album Elvis Presley was on its way to becoming a million seller. Still what escaped Parker was the reality that the single and the album were not bought by the people who come to see an orchestra playing tunes from the Broadway show 'Oklahoma' or a comedian's shlick.

(Source: Variety / UEPS / Elvis Express / EM)

June 26 - A Clear Surrender To Vinyl

The UK based Rockwell Music label announced another edition of their 'Surrender' compilation. This time a limited edition of 140 copies on clear vinyl. 

Side One: Summer Kisses, Winter Tears / Flaming Star / Milky White Way / His Hand In Mine / I Believe In The Man In The Sky / He Knows Just What I Need / Surrender / Mansion Over The Hilltop 

Side Two: In My Father’s House / Joshua Fit The Battle / Swing Down Sweet Chariot / I’m Gonna Walk Dem Golden Stairs / If We Never Meet Again / Known Only To Him / Working On A Building / Lonely Man / Wild In The Country / I Slipped, I Stumbled, I Fell

Elvis Presley - Une Flamme Éternelle

Released by the French Camion Blanc publisher is the 296 page book 'Elvis Presley - Une Flamme Éternelle' by Robert Roman. 

Le Soir

The French newspaper Le Soir will publish a special magazine on the 40th anniversary of Elvis Presley's death this August. 

(Source: Rockwell / Elvis Club Berlin / UEPS)

June 25 - Hot Summer Release

The SR label import-release 'Hot Summer in 1973' has been released. It features the previously unreleased Dinner Show performance from August 19, 1973 as recorded from the audience in Las Vegas. The CD comes in various packages and has a running-time of 46 minutes. 

Tracks Las Vegas August 19, 1973 DS:

01. 2001 Theme 02. See See Rider 03. I Got A Woman/Amen 04. Love Me 05. You Gave Me A Mountain 06. Trouble 07. Blue Suede Shoes 08. Rock Medley 09. Love Me Tender 10. Fever 11. What Now My Love 12. Suspicious Minds 13. Band Introductions 14. I Can’t Stop Loving You 15. Suspicious Minds 16. Band Introductions 17. My Boy 18. Release Me 19. An American Trilogy 20. Mystery Train/Tiger Man 21. Can’t Help Falling In Love/Closing Vamp.

(Source: various)

June 24 - Elvis On Fire

The Straight Arrow import-release 'On Fire In Florida' has been released. It contains audience recordings of Elvis presley's performances of the February 12 and 13, 1977 08.30 pm shows respectively recorded at the Sportatorium in Hollywood and West Palm Beach Auditorium. Both shows were released previously on CD as 'Hot Time In Miami' and 'Coming on Strong'. 

Also released is volume seven in the AudioRec 'Elvis-Hilton Showroom' import-series has been released. This CD, limited to 300 copies, contains contains an audience-recording of the February 17, 1972 dinner-show performance as recorded at the Hilton Showroom in Las Vegas. 

(Source: Elvis Aktuell)

June 23 - Elvis Symphonique

Due from RCA on August 4, 2017 in France is the double CD ’Elvis Symphonique – Elvis Presley Avec Le Royal Philharmonic Orchestra’. It contains the ’The Wonder of You’ and ’If I Can Dream’ albums by Elvis Presley and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. It comes with a 20 page booklet.

(Source: Amazon / Cultura)

June 22 - Re-opened And Released

Gabe Pressman, New York’s first television reporter and a legendary journalist whose career lasted over 60 years, died this morning at the age of 93. He passed away in his sleep after a brief illness. Gabe Pressman covered Elvis Presley's departure to Germany from the Brooklyn pier in New York.

Villa Grunewald To Be re-opened


The German Villa Grunewald, where Elvis hired a room during his army stint in Germany, opens its doors again in August 2017. 

Elvis Presley lived in the German spa town bad Nauheim from October 1958 to March 1960 and spent almost four months in the Villa Grunewald until, due to some complaints from other hotel guests about noise and various pranks from Presley's bodyguards - moved to the house at Goethestraße 14. For Elvis fans, room number 10 has become a pilgrimage center, but in recent years it has only been opened for guided tours.

For fans of the American singer, this is a nice piece of news: you can now sleep in the same bed as the King of Rock'n'Roll, or sit on the black toilet seat, the Elvis Presley especially from the United States States of America. "He probably did not like the then common white toilet seats, so it was transmitted to me," smirks Dröscher. Much of the original decor of the room has remained. With the years, however, unfortunately, a lot has been lost or even parts have been dismantled. At a commode, for example, hotel guests had removed a castle frame.

Released


The Elvis One releases 'Elvis Presley: Kid Galahad/Follow That Dream' Part 1 and 2' have been released. 

These two albums, released in the 'Bootleg Series', contain master, out-take and movie-versions in mono and stereo from the 'Kid Galahad' and 'Follow That Dream' movie soundtracks. 

Also released is the 4 CD set 'Elvis Presley - At The Movies: Volume Two'. This set was released by the  Real Gone Music label.

The 10 CD set 'The Signature Collection – 40th Anniversary Edition' has been released too. This set is limited to 400 copies.

Charts

• The 'ELV1S 30 # 1 Hits' album dropped from #34 to #41 on the Billboard Country Album chart. 
• The 'Ultimate Gospel' compilation dropped from #27 to # 36 on the Billboard Christian Album chart.
• The 'The Wonder Of You' cooperation with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra remained steady at #7 on the Billboard Classical Album chart. 
• The DVD 'The King Of Rock’n’Roll' climbed from #12 to #10 on the Australian Music DVD chart.
• The 3 CD Box 'Elvis – The Platinum Collection' re-entered the Official UK Album chart at #96.
• The 6 DVD set 'The Elvis Collection' dropped from #6 to #9 on the Official UK Music DVD chart. 
• The 3 CD Box 'Elvis – The Platinum Collection' climbed from #86 to #69 pon the Official Scottish Album chart.
• The DVD 'Elvis – The King Of Rock’n’Roll – 30 Hit Performances And More' dropped from #12 to #13 on the Australian Music DVD chart. 
• The 'The Wonder of You' album dropped from #82 to #186 on the Australian Album chart.
• The 'If I Can Dream' album remained steady at #155 on the Australian Album chart.
• The 'The Wonder of You / If I Can Dream' double album dropped from #29 to #264 on the Australian Album chart. 

(Source: Elvis Aktuell / The King's World / Bad Nauheim / Elvis Memories / Official UK Charts)

June 21 - Delayed

The release of the three FTD titles has been delayed about 1 week, now expected the first or second week of July. Along with  'Start Spreading The News': Elvis At Madison Square Garden Book and CD  and 'Too Much Monkey Business' 2-LP Limited Edition, Follow That Dream (FTD) will release the long awaited 'Classic Album' version of 'Roustabout'. Reaching #1 on Billboard in February 1965, it would Elvis' last chart topping album until 'Aloha From Elvis Via Satellite' in 1973. Packaged in 7" format with a full color 16-page memorabilia booklet, it contains previously unreleased material and the recently discovered 'I'm A Roustabout' track.

(Source: Follow that Dream)

June 20 - Released

The Touchdown Records import releases 'Beyond All Bounds' and 'December Heights' are out. 'Beyond All Bounds' contains an audience recording of the April 29, 1973 10 pm performance as recorded at the Seattle Centre Arena, Seattle, WA. 'December Heights' contains an audience recording of the December 11, 1975 8.30 pm show as recorded from the audience at the Hilton Hotel Las Vegas, NV.

Beyond All Bounds 29. April 1973:
Also Sprach Zarathustra - See See Rider - When My Blue Moon Turns To Gold Again - I Got A Woman / Amen - Elvis Welcomes The Audience - Love Me Tender - Teddy Bear / Don´t Be Cruel - You Gave Me A Mountain - Steamroller Blues - Surrender / You Don´t Have To Say You Love Me - Love Me - Blue Suede Shoes - Heartbreak Hotel - Long Tall Sally / Whole Lotta Shakin´Goin´On - How Great Thou Art - Johnny B. Goode - Hound Dog - Fever - What Now My Love - Suspicious Minds - Band Introductions - I´ll Remember You - I Can´t Stop Loving You - An American Trilogy - A Big Hunk O´Love - Elvis Thanks The Audience - Can´t Help Falling In Love - Closing Vamp / Announcement Bonus Songs - 29.04.1973 E/S: You Don´t Have To Say You Love Me - Steamroller Blues - You Gave Me A Mountain - I´ll Remember You - Help Me Make It Through The Night - An American trilogy

December Heights 11. Dezember 1975:
Also Sprach Zarathustra -  See See Rider - I Got A Woman / Amen - Elvis Welcomes The Audience - Love Me - Talk With Some Kids (Part 1) -  Fairytale - Talk With Some Kids (Part 2) - And I Love You So - About Cold Intros - Trying To Get To You - About The Vegas Throat - All Shook Up - Teddy Bear / Don´t Be - Hound Dog - Happy Birthday Linda - Until It´s Time For You To Go - Polk Salad Annie - Band Introductions - Just Pretend - How Great Thou Art - Burnung Love - Softly As I Leave You - America The Beautiful - It´s Now Or Never (14.12.1975 C/S) - Can´t Help Falling In Love (14.12.1975

(Source: Elvis On CD / Elvis Aktuell)

June 19 - Sun on 78 RPM Vinyl

With the 40th Anniversary of Elvis' passing comes a special release. Record players sold today are increasingly adding the 78rpm speed to the norm and these 5 Sun 10 inch (inch) replica singles play at 78rpm. 

The singles are: SUN 209: That's All Right - Blue Moon of Kentucky SUN 210: Good Rockin' Tonight - I Don't Care If The Sun Don't Shine SUN 215: Milkcow Blues Boogie - You're A Heartbreaker SUN 217: Baby Let's Play House - I'm Left, You're Right, She's Gone SUN 223: I Forgot To Remember To Forget - Mystery Train

This is the first time since Elvis Sun replicas produced in the 1970's, that have been made to play the original 78rpm speed. Since then some were only made at 45rpm. Each of the 5 Sun replicas have the original etched numbers included with the appropriate song sides and are by far the most original Sun replicas made. All the labels are perfect (as the original) in size, accuracy, and color. All the singles come in the same type sleeves as sold with the original releases. 

The sound quality is excellent with the original Sun sound recordings (including That's All Right) and is pressed on heavy stock vinyl. This is a strictly low limited number release on black vinyl and an extra low limited number release of a crystal-clear version in a clear polybag. A first time ever in this version for any Elvis Sun single replica produced. 

(Source: FECC)

June 18 - Encore Performance Volume

Joe Tunzi's latest book 'Encore Performance Volume VI: '57 at 60 ‐ Tonight Elvis Presley' has been released.

Synopsis from JAT Publishing site:

A new b ook publication by Joseph A. Tunzi / JAT Productions and Daryl W. Restly, 'Encore Performance Volume VI: '57 at 60 ‐ Tonight Elvis Presley', features unreleased photos of Elvis Presley, from the John Sebert collection, that were taken on April 2, 1957 at Maple Leaf Gardens in Toronto, Canada. These photographs are taken from the original negative sources and appear in better quality than you will find in other publications. Back in 2015, while JAT Productions was preparing the book, Encore Performance V: One Performance Only, Featuring Chicago '57, Tunzi acquired the original negatives from the John Sebert collection. This collection included over 300 photographs taken that evening. '57 at 60 ‐ Tonight Elvis Presley will retail at $79.95 (includes shipping & handling) and will feature roughly 250 of these images. 

(Source: FECC / JAT Publishing)

June 17 - Come On In, Young Man!

Hal and Julie Lansky released a childrens book entitled 'Come On In, Young Man!'. A book that tells children never let go of your dreams and always believe in yourself. A simple invitation to come into a store changed everything. "Come on in, young man!" said Bernard Lansky as he was standing outside his clothing store on Beale Street in downtown Memphis, Tennessee.

This book is a play on one of Elvis’s movies, “Follow that Dream”. We tell the story of a young man who worked hard, had confidence in himself, and dreamed he could be anything that he wanted to be. The idea for the children's book has been Hal and Julie's idea for awhile to showcase the relationship that their father and grandfather had with a young man who would become the most famous entertainer of all time ... the King of Rock and Roll - Mr. Elvis Presley. This book was written in hopes that younger generations will continue to keep the legacy of Elvis Presley along with Mr. Lansky's style influence alive. This book has been illustrated to have a retro 1950s feel. Children as well as adults will like the message that Hal and Julie have put on the story of Lansky Bros., the Clothier to the King.

Elvis 1956 Studio Sessions Released

The Memphis Recording Service 3 CD set 'Elvis Studio Sessions '56' has been released. The set is available from >>> Memphis Recording Service.

Synopsis:
The set pays tribute to Elvis Presley’s first recordings made for the RCA label in 1956. The 172-page book focuses on each of Elvis’ studio recording sessions during his first year of national stardom - from the first one in January, held in Nashville, then later in New York, before finishing his final session of the year in Hollywood in September. The full and comprehensive text is complemented by rare and previously unseen photographs and pieces of documentation.  
   
The 3CDs contain the complete archival master and session studio recordings of Elvis Presley from 1956, along with bonus interviews.  All 90 tracks have been remastered and restored to their original sound quality. Also for the first time on CD is the complete ‘The Truth About Me’ from an original US 45rpm flexi-disc. Although this has been claimed complete by FTD and other past official releases, they all had a missing sentence that was on the original disc. Included also are all the out-takes from this interview.  

US EP Collection Vol. 1.

Due from the Real Gone Music label on September 01, 2017 is 'US EP Collection Vol. 1.' More information when available.

(Source: FECC / Lansky Brosthers / Amazon / Memphis Recording Service)

June 16 - Country Drums of the Island

Two new import titles were announced, 'Drums of the Islands' and 'Country Memories'.

Details Ultimate Paradise Hawaiian Style Recording Sessions:

A sublime 3 cd boxset with the most complete ‘Paradise Hawaiian Style’ recording sessions, incl. many tracks unreleased by Elvis' official record company. This stunning box also includes the complete film versions and original mono album! Plus a newly discovered demo recording of a song rejected by Elvis and the Colonel and written by Dolores Fuller. Unfortunately never recorded by the man himself. Including a great full color booklet !

CD 1 The Stereo Album
01 Paradise, Hawaiian Style 02 Queenie Wahine’s Papaya 03 Scratch My Back (Then I’ll Scratch Yours) 04 Drums Of The Islands 05 Datin’ 06 A Dog’s Life 07 House Of Sand 08 Stop Where You Are 09 This Is My Heaven 10 Sand Castles The Outtakes 
11 Drums Of The Islands (Aov) / Take 1 12 Drums Of The Islands (Aov) / Take 2 13 Drums Of The Islands (Aov) / Take 3 14 Drums Of The Islands (Aov) / Take 4-5 15 Drums Of The Islands (Aov) / Take 6 16 This Is My Heaven (Fov) / Take 1-2 17 This Is My Heaven (Fov) / Take 3 18 This Is My Heaven (Fov) / Take 4 19 This Is My Heaven (Fov) / Take 5 20 This Is My Heaven (Fov) / Take 6 21 This Is My Heaven (Fov) / Take 7 22 This Is My Heaven (Fov) / Take 8 23 Sand Castles (Ko) / Take 1 24 Sand Castles (Ko) / Take 2-3 25 Sand Castles (Ko) / Take 4-5 26 Sand Castles (Ko) / Take 6 27 Sand Castles (Ko) / Take 7-8 28 Sand Castles (Ko) / Take 9 29 Sand Castles (Ko) / Take 10

CD 2 The Original Mono Album
01 Paradise, Hawaiian Style 02 Queenie Wahine’s Papaya 03 Scratch My Back (Then I’ll Scratch Yours) 04 Drums Of The Islands 05 Datin’ 06 A Dog’s Life 07 House Of Sand 08 Stop Where You Are 09 This Is My Heaven 10 Sand Castles 

The Outtakes
11 Sand Castles (Kov) / Take 1 12 Sand Castles (Koc) / Take 1 & Take Call Take 2 13 Scratch My Back (Cov) / Take 1 & Take Cal Take 2 14 Stop Where You Are (Dov) / Take 1 15 Stop Where You Are (Dov) / Take 2 16 Stop Where You Are (Dov) / Take 3 17 House Of Sand (Hov) / Take 3 18 House Of Sand (H1v) / Take 1-10 19 A Dog’s Life (Eov) / Take 1 20 A Dog’s Life (Eov) / Take 4 21 A Dog’s Life (Eov) / Take 5-6 22 Datin’ (Bov) / Take 1-4 23 Datin’ (Bov) / Take 6-8 24 Datin’ (Bov) / Take 11-12 25 Queenie Wahine’s Papaya (Jov) / Take 1-2 26 Queenie Wahine’s Papaya (Jov) / Take 3 27 Queenie Wahine’s Papaya (Jov) / Take 4 28 Queenie Wahine’s Papaya (Jov) / Take 5 29 Queenie Wahine’s Papaya (Jov) / Take 6

CD 3 The Movie Versions
01 Paradise, Hawaiian Style / Opening Version 02 Queenie Wahine’s Papaya 03 Scratch My Back 04 Drums Of The Islands 05 A Dog’s Life 06 Datin’ 07 A House Of Sand 08 Stop Where You Are 09 This Is My Heaven – Drums Of The Islands – Bula Meleya The Outtakes 10 Paradise, Hawaiian Style (Gov) Take 1 11 Paradise, Hawaiian Style (Gov) Take 2-3 12 Paradise, Hawaiian Style (Gov) Take 4 13 A Dog’s Life (Eov) Take 7 14 A Dog’s Life (Eov) Take 8 & Take All Take 9 15 Drums Of The Islands (Tag A1v) Reh / Take 1-2 16 Drums Of The Islands (Tag A1v) Take 3 17 Stop Where You Are (D1ov) / Take 2-5 18 Queenie Wahine’s Papaya (J1v) / Take 1-2 (Part Cut From Tape) 19 Queenie Wahine’s Papaya (Jo) / Take 1-2 20 Queenie Wahine’s Papaya (Jo) / Take 3 21 Queenie Wahine’s Papaya (Jo) / Take 4-5 22 Queenie Wahine’s Papaya (Jo) / Take 6 (Vocals By Neal Matthews) 

23 Bill Bailey Won’t You Please Come Home? (Vocals By Donna Butterworth) 
Rejected Song Written For The Movie By Dolores Fuller 24 Kamehemea 25 Native Chant (From The Movie) 26 Datin (Score) 27 Scratch My Back (Score) Radio Spot Announcements 28 Version 1 29 Version 2 30 Version 3 31 Version 4 32 Theater Trailer 33 Peter Noone Interviews Elvis On The Movie Set

Details Country Memories

This great country CD, housed in 6 panel digipack, is based on the 1978 RCA vinyl album. It had some strange selections for a country album (like How Great Thou Art and Baby Let's Play House) but it sold like hot cakes, almost a year after Elvis' passing. This CD contains rare alternate and live versions of all 20 original tracks.

I'll Hold You In my Heart (overdub version) Welcome To My World (live, january 12, 1973) It Keeps Right On A Hurtin' (take 2) Release Me (live, february 18, 1970) Make The World Go Away (take 2, undubbed) Snowbird (take 2) Early Morning Rain (january 14, 1973) I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry (live, january 12, 1973) Funny How Times Slips Away (undubbed) I'm Movin' On (undubbed) Help Me Make It Throught The Night (unedited master) You Don't Know Me (film version, take 10) How Great Thou Art (live, december 6, 1975) I Washed My Hands in Muddy Water (undubbed) I Forgot To Remember To Forget (stereo version) Your Cheatin' Heart (album version) Baby Let's Play House (stereo version) Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On (undubbed) Gentle On My Mind (track replacement overdubs) For The Good Times (take 3)

Charts

• The ’ELV1S 30 # 1 Hits’ album re-entered the Bilboard Country Album chart at #34.
• The ’Ultimate Gospel’ album climbed from climbed from #31 to #27 on the Christian Album chart. 
• The ’The Wonder Of You’ remained steady at #7 on the Billboard Classical Album chart. 
• The 'The Wonder of You / If I Can Dream' double album is a re-entry on the Australian Album chart at #29.
• The 'The Wonder Of You / If I Can Dream' double CD set dropped off the Belgian Album chart. 
• The 6 DVD-Box 'The Elvis Collection' climbed from #7 to #6 on the official UK Music DVD chart.
• 'The Platinum Collection' dropped from #67 to #86 on the Scottish Album chart.
• The 3 CD set ’Rockin’ Elvis’ dropped of the Scottish Album chart.

(Source: e-mail / The King's World / FECC)

June 15 - 40 years of Elvis Week Candlelight Vigils

Due from The Graceland Archives on August 07, 2017 is the 100 page book '40 years of Elvis Week Candlelight Vigils.' This full-color hardcover book takes the reader on a look back at nearly 40 years of Elvis Week Candlelight Vigils. Photography, images of mementos and newspaper clippings from the Graceland Archives fill the pages of this tribute style guide starting with the first Candlelight Vigil in 1978.

Also due are the previously posted books 'Elvis Presley's Graceland: The Official Guidebook Hardcover Edition' and 'The Elvis Presley Iconic Stagewear Book'.

(Source: EPE)

June 14 - Moody Blue

Due for release from RCA /Legacy on September 01, 2017 is a vinyl re-issue of Elvis Presley's last album 'Moody Blue (40th Anniversary Edition)'.

Elvis In Hollywood - The Original Songs From The Movies

Due for release from Junk Records on August 11, 2017 is the double CD 'Elvis In Hollywood - The Original Songs From The Movies'

CD 1: Love Me Tender - Let Me - Poor Boy - We´re Gonna Move - Loving You - Party - (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear - Mean Woman Blues - Got A Lot ´O Livin To Do - Young And Beautiful - I Want To Be Free - Don´t Leave Me Now - Treat Me Nice - Jailhouse Rock - (You´re So Square) Baby I Don t Care - King Creole - As Long As I Have You - Hard Headed Woman - Don´t Ask Me Why - Lover Doll - Wooden Heart - Tonight´s All Right For Love - G. I. Blues - Blue Suede Shoes - Pocketful Of Rainbows

CD 2: Doin The Best I Can - Flaming Star - Wild In The Country - Lonely Man - Blue Hawaii - Rock-A-Hula Baby - Can´t Help Falling In Love - Aloha Oe - Moonlight Swim - Island Of Love (Kauai) - Follow That Dream - Angel - What A Wonderful Life - I´m Not The Marrying Kind - King Of The Whole Wide World - This Is Living - Ridin The Rainbow - Home Is Where The Heart Is - I Got Lucky - A Whistling Tune.

The Best Notes

Due later this year from the Italian publisher Volonte is the sheetmusic book 'Elvis Presley - The Best Songs'. 

A Little Less Conversation - All Shook Up - Always On My Mind - Blue Moon - Can´t Help Falling In Love - Don´t Be Cruel - Good Luck Charm - Hard Headed Woman - His Latest Flame - I Want You, I Need You, I Love You - Jailhouse Rock - Kentucky Rain - Little Sister - Love Me Tender - Return To Sender - She´s Not You - Suspicious Minds - (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear - Tutti Frutti - Viva Las Vegas - (You´re The) Devil In Disguise

(Source: Amazon / Elvis Aktuell / Elvis Club Berlin)

June 13 - All American Boy

The Elvis One label announced the release of another compilation in their 'Bootleg Series' entitled 'All American Boy'. 

From the press-release:
"All-American Boy" represents Elvis Presley from the early years, with recordings from 1953 to 1960, including alternate takes and original masters complete with studio banter. Also included are 3 different versions from the song "That's When Your Heartaches Begin" from 1953, 1956 and 1957. 
This album also contains great to hear and rare Elvis tribute songs and recordings from "break-in" records from the fifties and sixties. Plus an answer song ("Yes, "I'm Lonesome Tonight") to "Are You Lonesome Tonight?" from 1960. A nice collection from and about The All-American Boy... Including a 12 pages booklet with photos and recording information, with the history of "break-in" records...

The All American Boy
01. All Shook Up (including count-in) 2:03
02. Don’t (including count-in) 2:56
03. My Wish Came True (including count-in) 2:41
04. Don’t Leave Me Now (02/1957, including count-in) 2:06
05. Treat Me Nice (including count-in) 2:21
06. That’s When Your Heartaches Begin (1957) 3:24
07. Old Shep (alternate take 5) 4:01
08. Blue Suede Shoes (1960, including count-in) 2:13
09. Rip It Up (alternate take 18 + master) 3:53
10. That’s When Your Heartaches Begin (1956 - Informal recording) 2:55
11. Are You Lonesome Tonight? 3:08
12. That’s When Your Heartaches Begin 
(1953 - demo recording) 2:52

All About The All American Boy 
13. All About Elvis (An Interview With P.Q. Rock ‘N’ Roll - Milt Oshins) Part 1 (1956) 2:08
14. All About Elvis (An Interview With P.Q. Rock ‘N’ Roll - Milt Oshins) Part 2 (1956) 1:59
15. This Was Your Life, Elvis PresleySid Lawrence - Part 1 & 2 (1957) 4:53
16. Dear Elvis - With love from Audrey (1956) 3:25
17. My Boy Elvis (by Janis Martin, 1956) 2:07
18. Hey, Mr. Presley (by Pete Debree, 1958) 2:32
19. The Elvis Blues (by Otto Bash, 1956) 2:20
20. Yes, I’m Lonesome Tonight (by Dodie Stevens, 1960) 3:32
21. Dear 5 3 3 1 0 7 6 1 (by The Threeteens, 1958) 2:20
22. The All-American Boy (by Bobby Bare, 1959) 2:56

Das Ziemlich Lebendige Leben des Vermeintlich Toten Elvis

Just released by Rowohlt Verlag Berlin is the German book 'Das ziemlich lebendige Leben des vermeintlich toten Elvis'. According to the German Elvis Presley author Helmut Radermacher it is a fun(ny) book wit a lot of word jokes about Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson, Tom Parker and many more. 

(Source: email / Elvis Memories)

June 12 - Not Uber Elvis FTD Releases

The Follow That Dream collectors label announced their June 2017 releases. A single CD of the 'Roustabout' soundtrack in the Classic Album series, 'Start Spreading The News - Elvis At Madison Square Garden' book and CD, a 2 LP Limited Edition of 'Too Much Monkey Business'.

The label also announced that the following titles will be deleted Dixieland Rocks / Spring Tours / Summer Festival / Unchained Melody / I'll Remember You / Dixieland Delight / Showtime / From Hawaii To Las Vegas.

Details Roustabout Classic Album Edition:

Album Sales Tips From RCA Victor (Special album release for November 1964)  
We’ve had original soundtrack recordings by Elvis in the past and we needn’t dwell on their great success, but the new “Roustabout” album is undoubtedly on of the finest we’ve had! “It’s A Wonderful World” and “Big Love Big Heartache” are delivered smoothly to a smooth Latin-flavored accompaniment. Moist of the tunes however, are the hard-rocker variety, especially “Hard Knocks and “There’s A Brand New Day On The Horizon.” For a special gas, check out the lyrics on “Little Egypt” and “Poison Ivy League.” We’ve got great music, a great cover, the movie tie-in, advertising and promotion support.  

53 years later, FTD is pleased to announce the long awaited “Classic Album” version of “Roustabout”. Reaching #1 on Billboard in February 1965, it would Elvis’ last chart topping album until “Aloha From Elvis Via Satellite” in 1973. Packaged in 7” format with a full color 16-page memorabilia booklet, it contains previously unreleased material and the recently discovered “I’m A Roustabout” track.    

The Original Album
01  Roustabout  2:01
02  Little Egypt  2:21
03  Poison Ivy League  2:05
04  Hard Knocks  1:45  
05  it’s A Wonderful World  1:51
06  Big Love Big Heartache  2:03  
07  One Track Heart  2:18
08  It’s Carnival Time  1:36
09  Carny Town  1:13
10  There’s A Brand New Day On The Horizon  2:03
11  Wheels On My Heels  1:25  

Bonus track
12  I’m A Roustabout  (take 10/M)  2:13  

Outtakes and remixed masters
13  Little Egypt (AO take 15/M, record version) 2:33
14  Little Egypt (revised, AO take 21, part used for movie version) 2:52
15  Poison Ivy League (BO take 7/M) 2:19
16  Hard Knocks (CO take 11/M, record version) 1:53
17  Hard Knocks (COV take 4, movie version)* 1:55
18  Its A Wonderful World (DO take 13/M)  2:07
19  Its A Wonderful World (DO take 17, instrumental)* 2:02
20  Big Love Big Heartache (EO take 17/M) 2:17
21  One Track Heart (FO take 5/M) 2:26
22  It’s Carnival Time (HO take 2/HOV take 9/M, record version) 1:50
23  It’s Carnival Time (HO take 2/HOV take 12, movie version)* 1:45
24  Carny Town (JO take 9/M) 1:29
25  There’s A Brand New Day On The Horizon  (KO take 5/M) 2:13
26  Wheels On My Heels  (LO take 7/M) 1:28
27  Roustabout (NOV takes 1-5*, 6) 7:21
28  Roustabout (NOV takes 7*, 8) 3:00
29  Roustabout (NOV take 9, movie version)* 2:14
30  Roustabout (NOV takes 10-12)* 4:47
31  Roustabout (NOV take 13)* 2:10
32  Roustabout (NOV takes 14-16)* 2:58
33  Roustabout (NOV take 17/M, record version) 2:15  
* previously unreleased

Details 'Start Spreading The News - Elvis At Madison Square Garden', book and CD. The Ultimate book about Elvis’ appearances in the Big Apple, June 1972. comes with a CD of the concert on June 9.

1) Also Sprach Zarathustra 0:47 2) That's All Right 2:15 3) Proud Mary 2:39 4) Never Been To Spain 3:43 5) Until It's Time For You To Go 2:36 6) You Don't Have To Say You Love Me 2:02 7) You've Lost That Loving Feeling 4:16 8) Polk Salad Annie 3:05 9) Love Me1:37 10) All Shook Up 1:08 11) Heartbreak Hotel 1:42 12) Teddy Bear/Don't Be Cruel 1:56 13) Love Me Tender 1:46 14) Blue Suede Shoes 1:29 15) Hound Dog 2:05 16) Bridge Over Troubled Water 4:10 17) Suspicious Minds 4:50 18) Introductions by Elvis 1:19 19) For The Good Times 3:08 20) American Trilogy 4:45 21) Funny How Times Slips Away2:49 22) Can't Help Falling In Love 1:40 23) Closing Vamp 1:23 (an audience recording).

Details Too Much Monkey Business, 2 LP Limited Edition:

Based on the original 1981 “Guitar Man” album, FTD Vinyl’s new release contains all the tracks featured on the FTD CD release from 2000. The 2-LP features full overdub session data insert. Pressed on 180 Gram heavyweight vinyl, it’s availability is strictly limited as all previous releases.    

Side 1: 01) If You Talk In Your Sleep 2:32 02) Just Call Me Lonesome 2:04 03) I’ll Be There 3:04 04) Too Much Monkey Business 2:50  05) After Loving You 3:20 06) You Asked Me To 2:58  

Side 2: 01) Faded Love 2:52 02) Clean Up Your Own Backyard 3:08 03) Lovin’ Arms 2:53 04) Guitar Man 2:50 05) Kentucky Rain 3:19 08) In The Ghetto 2:48  

Side 3: 01) Burning Love 2:57 02) I’ll Hold You In My Heart 3:39 03) Only The Strong Survive 3:12 04) She Thinks I Still Care 3:36 05) Long Black Limousine 3:45  

Side 4: 01) I’m Movin On 2:47 02) Hey Jude 4:06 03) Blue Suede Shoes 3:07  
Bonus songs: 04) Paralyzed* 2:24 05) The Elvis Medley + 3:59, Jailhouse Rock - (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear), Hound Dog - Don’t Be Cruel, Burning Love - Suspicious Minds 06) Wear My Ring Around Your Neck* 2:16  *Taken from the album “I Was The One,” 1983. + Taken from the album “The Elvis Medley, “ 1982.

The 50 Greatest Concerts of the Last 50 Years

Rolling Stone magazine listed the 50 greatest concerts of the last 50 years. The list below was born out of some pretty serious arguments. Was Bruce Springsteen better in 1975 or 1978? When did Kanye hit his stride? Which was more awesome, "The Joshua Tree" or "Zoo TV"? The concerts and tours that made the final cut weren't just huge spectacles, they deepened the power of rock & roll itself – from Neil Young thrashing out 20-minute jams with Crazy Horse to Beyoncé turning stadium glitz into a personal outpouring. "You're almost levitating on the energy from the audience," says Keith Richards. "And I miss it when I'm not doing it." Here are the people who've done it best.

The top 3:
1. The Jimi Hendrix Experience Worldwide Tour (1967)
2. James Brown at Boston Garden (April 5th, 1968)
3. Big Brother and the Holding Company American Tour (1968)
4. Elvis Comeback Special (Aired December 3rd, 1968)

"Elvis was hardly ever nervous," says drummer D.J. Fontana, remembering the NBC special that relaunched Presley's career after years in Hollywood. "But he was then." The highlight: an intimate sit-down set with his band, Fontana and guitarist Scotty Moore, that was almost like catching Elvis at the Louisiana Hayride back in 1954. "Performing with Elvis was amazing," remembers Darlene Love, who sang backup for Presley on the show, "because we didn't really know what to expect from him." K.G.

>> Visit Rolling Stone for the complete list.

Effortless Night

The song 'You're The Boss' by Elvis Presley and Ann-Margret is featured in the latest television commercial for the UBER 'taxi' company entitled 'Effortless Night'. In the clip you follow Miles and Grace as they journey effortlessly across their city, on a night that could take them anywhere.

Sad related news is that actor Roger Smith, Ann Magret's husband, has died on June 5, 2017. He was 84. Roger Smith brought glamour to the TV detective genre as a hip private eye on "77 Sunset Strip". The actor died at a Los Angeles hospital after battling a terminal illness. Smith had battled the nerve disease myasthenia gravis for many years.

(Source: FECC / YouTube / Rolling Stone Magazine / Follow That Dream)