January 31 - Big Boss Man In Vegas

The Rock N Roll Majesty import-label announced the release of the 4 CD longbox "Big Boss Man In Vegas", a limited edition of 350 numbered sets. Like their previous outings this box contains previously released material; two 1974 concerts (on four discs).

The August 30, 1974 midnight show was released on "Night Fever In Vegas" by the Rock Legends import-label in 1997 and later as "Black Angels In Vegas" by the Venus Productions import-label in 2009.

The September 2, 1974 closing show, was previously released as "Desert Storm" by the Fort Baxter import-label in 1997 and this show was later released by various labels as "Strung Out In Vegas" (Godfather Records) and "Time To Dare" (MxF import-label).

(Source: The Music of Elvis Presley)

January 30 - Released

The 4 LP box-set "Elvis On Stage Revisited" has been released. This is a limited edition of a few hundred copies. The content is taken from the 2011 Backdraft release, "Rebooked At The International - January/February 1970".

On Stage - The Album - The Felton Jarvis Rough Mix
1. See See Rider (Feb. 18; Ds) 2. Elvis Talks (Feb. 18; Ms) 3. Release Me (Feb. 18; Ms) 4. Sweet Caroline (Feb. 16; Ds) 5. Elvis Talks (Feb. 18; Ds) 6. The Wonder Of You (Feb. 18; Ds)

LP 1 - Side B
1. Polk Salad Annie (Feb. 18; Ms) 2. Elvis Talks (Feb. 16; Ds) 3. Proud Mary (Feb. 16; Ds) 4. Walk A Mile In My Shoes (Feb. 19; Ms) 5. Let It Be Me (Feb. 17; Ms) 6. I Can´T Stop Loving You (Feb. 19; Ms)

LP 2 - Side A - Opening Show - January 26, 1970
1. Opening Vamp/All Shook Up 2. That´S All Right 3. Elvis Talks 4. Proud Mary 5. Don´T Cry Daddy 6. Teddy Bear/Don´T Be Cruel 7. Long Tall Sally 8. Let It Be Me 9. Walk A Mile In My Shoes/In The Ghetto

LP 2 - Side B
1. I Can´T Stop Loving You 2. True Love Travels On A Gravel Road 3. Sweet Caroline 4. Polk Salad Annie 5. Introductions 6. Kentucky Rain Suspicious Minds 7. Can´T Help Falling In Love

LP 3 - Side A - Dinner Show - February 18, 1970
1. Long Tall Sally 2. Elvis Talks 3. Don´T Cry Daddy 4. The Wonder Of You 5. Walk A Mile In My Shoes 6. Release Me 7. Polk Salad Annie

LP 3 - Side B - Dinner Show - February 19, 1970
1. Proud Mary 2. Don´T Cry Daddy 3. Kentucky Rain 4. Let It Be Me 5. I Can´T Stop Loving You 6. Walk A Mile In My Shoes 7. Release Me 8. See See Rider

LP 4 - Side A Closing Show - February 23
1. Opening Vamp/All Shook Up 2. I Got A Woman 3. Long Tall Sally 4. Don´T Cry Daddy 5. Hound Dog 6. Love Me Tender 7. Kentucky Rain 8. Let It Be Me 9. I Can´T Stop Loving You

LP 4 - Side B - Dinner Show - February 19, 1970
1. See See Rider 2. Sweet Caroline 3. Polk Salad Annie Blueberry Hill (Elvis At The Piano) 4. Lawdy Miss Clawdy 5. Heartbreak Hotel 6. One Night 7. It´S Now Or Never 8. Suspicious Minds 9. Can´T Help Falling In Love

(Source: Various)

January 29 - Elvis The Beginning

Here is the cover-art for the "Elvis Presley - The Beginning" DVD which is due April 2018 from S'More Entertainment.

Synopsis:
Elvis Aaron Presley was the undisputed King of Rock and Roll, but long before he earned his title, he was just another nervous 19 year old kid looking to make it in the music business. Together with his more worldly and experienced band mates, Scotty Moore and Bill Black, the trio headed out on an unofficial one year tour, driving in a 4,500 mile loop starting in Memphis and stopping for more than 200 one night stands. This fascinating documentary looks at the genesis of Elvis Presley's 1954 to 1955 adventures with his bandmates (whose first appearance happened at a drug store grand opening). 

With seldom heard recordings of Elvis and interviews with guitarist and band mate Scotty Moore, booking agents, song writers, disc jockeys and fans... basically, anyone who's paths they crossed. You'll experience the raw power and innocence of the man who would become King.' The program starts with an Elvis appearance on a KWKH radio broadcast from October 16, 1954, taken from a Louisana Hayride performance by the then 19 year old. You travel the same route they traveled, seeing the small clubs, honky tonks, churches, high schools and other venues they performed at and motels they slept in during this year long odyssey, There are radio promos and even clips of Elvis, who talks about the stress of touring, doing multiple shows each day, the pressure of day to day life on the road. 

Emmy winner Jack Perkins's narration and idiosyncratic style sets the tone for a thoughtful look back at Elvis's trials and tribulations on the road to stardom.

(Source: Amazon)

January 26 - Record Store Releases

Several (re)releases were announced for Record Store Day 2018. The Memphis Recording Service already announced a vinyl re-issue of their “RCA Studio 1: The New York Sessions” set. 

Also due on April 21, 2018 are the soundtrack albums “Loving You” on yellow vinyl, “Girls! Girls! Girls!” And finally the re-issue of the 2016 compilation “Johnny - Elvis: Quand Johnny Repend Elvis”. 

Due for re-release from Friday Music is "Elvis Golden Records - Volume 5". This re-issue comes on 180 Gr. gold colored vinyl packed in a gatefold cover. 

Tracks side A: Suspicious Minds - Kentucky Rain - In The Ghetto - Clean Up Your Own Back Yard - If I Can Dream

Side B: Burning Love - If You Talk In Your Sleep - For The Heart - Moody Blue - Way Down

The Cult Legends label released the LP "The Number One Hit Collection: Elvis Presley".

Tracks side A: Return To Sender - Kiss Me Quick - (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear -  Wooden Heart - Stuck On You - Are You Lonesome Tonight - It's Now Or Never - Love Me Tender - Good Luck Charm

Side B: Don't Be Cruel - Don't - All Shook Up - Hound Dog - Heartbreak Hotel - Jailhouse Rock - Surrender - A Big Hunk Of Love -  Loving You - I Want You, I Need You, I Love You

Billboard Charts

• The “ELV1S 30 #1 Hits” dropped from #22 to #48 on the Billboard Country Album chart.
• The “ELV1S 30 #1 Hits” dropped off the Billboard Top 200 Album chart and The Billboard Rock Album chart. 
• The “Ultimate Gospel” compilation is listed at #22 on the Billboard Christian Album chart. 
• The “Playlist: The Very Best Gospel Of Elvis Presley” is listed at #44 on the Billboard Christian Album chart.  
• The “The Wonder of You” cooperation with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra is listed at #15 on the Billboard Classical Album chart. 
• The “Elvis Christmas With The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra” album dropped off the Billboard Classical Album chart. 

UK Chart

• The 6 DVD set “The Elvis Collection” dropped off the Official UK Music DVD chart.

European Chart

• The "Elvis – El Disco De Oro" dropped from #31 to #44 on the Spanisch Album chart.
• The “The Real … Elvis” dropped from #56 to #63 on the Official Scottish Album chart.
• The “The Platinum Collection” dropped from #89 to #92 on the Official Scottish Album chart.

Australian Chart

• On the ARIA Albums Chart Top 100 for the week commencing January 29, 2018) the 2007 album "Elvis The King" climbed from 78 to #65 and gets double platinum certification (140,000 sales).
• The “Elvis – The King Of Rock’n’Roll – 30 Hit Performances And More” Single DVD dropped from #9 to #14 on the Australian Music DVD chart. 

(Source: Elvis Club Berlin / Laser Freak on FECC / The King's World / Billboard / Official Charts Company)

January 26 - Released

Three new titles have been released; the Big 3 triple CD release “Lovin´ Elvis”, the Unidisc Music double CD re-issue “Édition 75iéme Anniversaire: Elvis” and the triple CD set “Elvis Presley - All The Best” from the Master Music Label.

(Source: Amazon / Elvis Aktuell)

January 25 - A Little Less Compensation

A Scottish brewery has won a legal battle with Elvis Presley's estate over the name of one of their beers. Aberdeenshire-based company BrewDog launched their bestselling grapefruit and blood orange Brewdog Elvis Juice IPA in 2015 but were contacted by the late singer's estate demanding they change the name of the beverage. Now, after a three-year battle the firm has overturned a ruling banning them from using the name and and order to pay Presley's estate £1,500 in costs has been scrapped. 

The Elvis estate said the application overlapped with their registered trade mark 'Elvis' and people could mistakenly believe that the beer was endorsed by them. The UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO), which rules on trade mark disputes, found in favour of the estate last June but Brewdog appealed the decision. The ruling means BrewDog will no longer have to change the name or apply to the Elvis estate for official permission to use it. In evidence given to the original hearing, BrewDog's finance director Neil Simpson said turnover for its Elvis Juice product was £1.9 million in 2016.

Elvis: Harum Scarum

JAT publishing announced a new book "Harum Scarum - The Book" featuring over 150 unreleased photos from the 1965 movie. From the recording sessions, to the backlot, straight to the filming as Elvis brings the big beat to Baghdad.
As a bonus there is an extra chapter on 'Behind The Scenes of Girl Happy'. The book retails at $125 (includes P&H)

(Source: Daily Mail / JAT Publishing)

January 23 - The Searcher Tracks

Here is the track listing for the HBO Special "The Searcher" soundtrack by  Sony Legacy release. This LP is due April 6, 2018. 

1 Trouble / Guitar Man
2 My Baby Left Me
3 That's All Right
4 Baby Let's Play House
5 Heartbreak Hotel
6 Lawdy, Miss Clawdy
7 Hound Dog
8 Crawfish
9 Mona Lisa
10 Milky White Way

1 Like A Baby
2 Are You Lonesome Tonight?
3 It's Now Or Never
4 Tomorrow Is A Long Time
5 Suspicious Minds (Take 6)
6 Separate Ways (Rehearsal Version)
7 Hurt (Take 5)
8 If I Can Dream

RCA Studio 1

The Memphis Recording label announced the release of the LP "RCA Studio 1: The New York Sessions" with April 21 as the release-date. 

Elvis Presley - The Beginning

Due for release on April 2018 from S'More Entertainment is the DVD "Elvis Presley - The Beginning" starring Scotty Moore.

Synopsis:
Elvis Aaron Presley was the undisputed King of Rock and Roll, but long before he earned his title, he was just another nervous 19 year old kid looking to make it in the music business. Together with his more worldly and experienced band mates, Scotty Moore and Bill Black, the trio headed out on an unofficial one year tour, driving in a 4,500 mile loop starting in Memphis and stopping for more than 200 one night stands. This fascinating documentary looks at the genesis of Elvis Presley's 1954 to 1955 adventures with his bandmates (whose first appearance happened at a drug store grand opening). 

With seldom heard recordings of Elvis and interviews with guitarist and band mate Scotty Moore, booking agents, song writers, disc jockeys and fans... basically, anyone who's paths they crossed. You'll experience the raw power and innocence of the man who would become King.' The program starts with an Elvis appearance on a KWKH radio broadcast from October 16, 1954, taken from a Louisana Hayride performance by the then 19 year old. You travel the same route they traveled, seeing the small clubs, honky tonks, churches, high schools and other venues they performed at and motels they slept in during this year long odyssey, There are radio promos and even clips of Elvis, who talks about the stress of touring, doing multiple shows each day, the pressure of day to day life on the road. 

Emmy winner Jack Perkins's narration and idiosyncratic style sets the tone for a thoughtful look back at Elvis's trials and tribulations on the road to stardom.


(Source: FECC / JPC.de / Amazon / Fan.pl / Elvis Club Berlin)

January 19 - Weekend Charts (Updated)

The 2002 “ELV1S 30 #1 Hits” hit compilation re-entered the US Billboard Album Top 200 at #183. The album climbed from #42 to #31 on the US Billboard Rock Album chart and climbed from #28 to #22 on the US Billboard Country Album chart. 

The “Ultimate Gospel” album is listed at #27 on the US Billboard Christian Album chart while the “Playlist: The Very Best Gospel Of Elvis Presley“ is listed at #34 and “He Touched Me – The Gospel Music Of Elvis Presley“ can be found at #43 on that chart. 

The “Elvis Christmas With The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra“ dropped to #14 on the US Billboard Classical Album chart while “The Wonder of You” album, also a cooperation with The Royal philharmonic Orchestra is listed at #13. 

European Chart

• The “The Wonder of You” cooperation with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra dropped from #80 to #96 on the Official UK Physical Sales chart.
• The “The Real … Elvis” compilation dropped from #44 to #56 on the Scottish Album chart. 
• The “The Platinum Collection” set climbed from #96 to #89 on the Scottish Album chart.
• The "ELV1S 30 #1 Hits" compilation dropped off the Irish album chart from last weeks listing a #99.
• The "Elvis – El Disco De Oro" dropped from #28 to #31 on the Spanish Album chart.

Australian Chart

• The “Elvis: The King Of Rock 'N' Roll” DVD dropped from #9 to #14 on the Australian Aria Album chart.

Graceland Named Best Tennessee Attraction 

Elvis Presley’s Graceland was voted #1 “Best Attraction in Tennessee” in USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, it was announced today by 10Best.com.  Graceland was voted into the top spot by the general public and readers of USA Today’s popular 10Best online travel site, who were asked to cast their online ballot for their favorite attraction from a pool of 20 state attractions nominated by a panel of esteemed Tennessee travel writers and photographers.  Voting began on December 18, 2017 and ran through noon on January 15, 2018.

This marks an impressive fourth USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Award win for Elvis Presley’s legendary home, which was previously voted the world’s “Best Musical Attraction” and “Best Historic Southern Attraction” in 2015, and the #1 “Iconic American Attraction” in 2013 by USA Today 10Best readers.

Graceland was in good company, joined by Memphis’ National Civil Rights Museum in the top five in this 10Best Reader’s Choice Awards contest.  Memphis was the only Tennessee city to host two of the top five attractions in the state. The entire top ten is listed at http://www.10best.com/awards/travel/best-tennessee-attraction.

In the past 15 months, Graceland has seen the greatest expansion since opening to the public in 1982, including the AAA Four Diamond rated Guest House at Graceland resort hotel – the largest hotel to open in Memphis in 90 years – and “Elvis Presley’s Memphis,” Graceland’s new, state-of-the art entertainment and exhibit complex featuring over 200,000 square feet of immersive exhibits, themed restaurants and gift shops .

10Best.com provides users with original, unbiased, and experiential travel content of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world. The core of the site's uniqueness is its team of local travel experts: a well-traveled and well-educated group who are not only experts in their fields - and their cities - but discriminating in their tastes. These local experts live in the city they write about so the content is constantly updated. 10Best.com averages 5 million visitors per month. It was acquired by USA TODAY in January of 2013.

(Source: Billboard / The King's World / EPE / Official Charts / The King's World / Aria Charts)

January 18 - Elvis Releases

Due for release from Sony Music CMG is the 4 CD set “Elvis Close-Up”. This is probably the budget edition re-issue of the original release of this set. 

Already Released

The Bounty label 4 DVD set “Elvis Collection”, containing the movies “The Early Years”, “The Rock n Roll Years”, “Up, Close & Personal”, “Aloha From Hawaii” and “The Later Years”.

The Friday Music vinyl re-issue of the classic “Back In Memphis” album has been released on 180 Gr. audiophile translucent gold colored vinyl. This re-issue comes with and additional poster. 

Side A: 1. Inherit The Wind 2. This Is The Story 3. Stranger In My Own Home Town 4. A Little Bit Of Green 5. And The Grass Won’t Pay No Mind
Side B: 1. Do You Know Who I Am 2. From A Jack To A King 3. The Fair’s Moving On 4. You’ll Think Of Me 5. Without Love (There Is Nothing)

(Source: Amazon / Elvis Aktuell)

January 17 - Really ... Elvis Cup

A few years back we had the Elvis Cup Guy, now there Elvis Cup Girl? A paper cup allegedly used by Elvis Presley six decades ago in Oklahoma is up for auction, and bids have already surpassed $1,200. North Carolina resident Wade Jones is a collector of all things Elvis. He tells the Tulsa World that the crumpled blue-and-white Dixie cup was snagged by a fan in April 1956, after Elvis performed at the Tulsa Fairgrounds Pavilion.

Jones says a fan named June allegedly retrieved the cup the day after the performance, right before Elvis left town for a show in Oklahoma City. A letter accompanying the collector’s item says June had asked to keep the cup “as a little memento.” Bids for the now-yellowed paper cup had surpassed $1,280 on eBay by mid-day Wednesday. Jones says the auction closes Sunday evening.

From the eBay listing:
You are bidding on an authenric Dixie Cup that Elvis Presley drank from on
April 19th, 1956 at 10:30 am at the corner of 3rd and Boston in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Elvis had performed the night before in Tulsa (April 18th, 1956).
This cup was obtained from Elvis Presley the following morning (April 19th) at 10:45am after he left his hotel. He ate and went shopping that morning before heading to Oklahoma City for his concert there later that night.

Winning bidder will receive the cup the box it's been stored in since 1956
letter of authenticity notebook full of "research" that had been collected related to the events surrounding the Cup. 

Update January 22, 2018: the item sold for US $3,300.00. 

Proving that some fans are crazier than others, the "crusty paper cup that might've once touched Elvis Presley's lips" sold on EBay for US $3,300.
The cup's supposedly from The King's first concert in Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1956. Elvis was only 21 at the time and played his first show there in April of that year. The cup was supposedly taken from him at his hotel by a woman named June who then kept it in a box with his autographed picture for decades.
North Carolina resident Wade Jones is a collector of all things Elvis. He tells the Tulsa World that the crumpled blue-and-white Dixie cup was snagged by a fan in April 1956, after Elvis performed at the Tulsa Fairgrounds Pavilion.
The auction closed on Sunday hitting the $3,300 mark after 85 bids. 

(Source: eBay / Associated Press / Elvis Information Network)

January 14 - Q&A with Ernst Jorgensen

Ernst Jørgensen did a Q&A on January 13, 2018 in Oslo at an event organized by the Norwegian Flaming Star fan-club.

Asked about future projects he says the "big" thing happening in 2018 will be "The Searcher". He also had this to say about the future of FTD: "There is from time to time rumours that FTD is going to stop. But that is something I don't know anything about." 

He said there is always an anniversary for something in the Elvis world and that this year it is the 50th anniversary for the '68 Special and next year for 1969. Both big years for Elvis. We could maybe take that as a hint for one or two future releases? He did confirm a 3 CD set of “Viva Las Vegas” according to a posting on the FECC forum. 

He talked about "Elvis On Tour" and "Elvis In Concert" without revealing any plans for either one of those specials. Regarding "Elvis On Tour" there are several parties (Warner, SONY and EPE) that need to talk to each-other for that to happen, and there is a costly project of transferring the old film footage and restoring it which means there is very little money to be made. The film company, not RCA, paid for the audio recordings, that's why they can't release it without their consent. He said it's possible that they will release the concerts on CD but it won't be in 2018 or 2019. 

Other topics he talked about:

• Ernst talked at length about the 50's box set from 1992. BMG in Germany believed in the project from the start, but the American record label thought it might sell 10,000 at most. It ended up selling 400,000 in the US, and 600,000 in the rest of the world.
• Will there be an updated version of "A Life In Music". Ernst doesn't really answer this, he says he doesn't want to do it just to make money, there has to be a real good reason to publish a new edition.
• Any surprises? Ernst says no, but that sometimes things turn up like the wire recording of "I Forgot To Remember To Forget". He also says that when they acquire new unreleased material, they will try to release it as soon as possible, and mentions "Live A Little", "Speedway" and "Kissin' Cousins" as examples. An unreleased Elvis recording is no longer a sensation, it will not make headlines, so it makes no sense to keep secrets from the fans - if he finds anything, we will know about it.
• "Elvis In Concert" - Lisa Marie doesn't ever want it released and they respect her wishes. Ernst has no wish to release the concerts on audio, because of the bad shape Elvis was in. So that seems to rule out an FTD release.
• The "Aloha" and "Madison Square Garden" LP:s will eventually be releases in FTD:s classic album series.

The Q&A was done in Danish and Norwegian, for those who understand those languages here is the Q&A from YouTube. 




DVD and Blu-Ray re-issues

Due for release from Koch Media GmbH on February 8, 2018 in Germany are DVD and Blu-Ray re0-issues of “Frankie and Johnny” and “Follow that Dream” (“Ein Sommer in Florida”). 

Due from Alive - Vertrieb und Marketing on April 27, 2018 is a DVD re-issue of "Loving You" ("Gold aus heißer Kehle"). 

Edwin Hawkins Died

Award-winning gospel singer Edwin Hawkins, best known for a hit arrangement of “Oh Happy Day”, has died at the age of 74. Credited with being one of the founders of modern gospel music, Hawkins died Monday at his California home after battling pancreatic cancer, US media reported, quoting the artist's publicist, Bill Carpenter.

“Oh Happy Day" is a 1967 gospel music arrangement of an 18th-century hymn. It became an international hit in 1969. Hawkins' arrangement quickly became a “standard” and has been recorded by hundreds of artists including Elvis Presley in 1970. Elvis Presley never made a studio recording of "Oh Happy day," but he sang it occasionally in concert and thought about using it in his 1968 TV special.

(Source: Flaming Star / FECC / Amazon / Elvis Club Berlin)

January 13 - The King As Seen on TV and on the Charts (Updated)

Due for release from the Wax Love label on January 23, 2018 is the vinyl album “The King As Seen on TV! - The Dorsey Brothers Show & The Ed Sullivan Show 1957“. 

Synopsis:
In his first nationally televised appearance, on the big band leaders Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey's TV variety show, Elvis Presley shocked the country with his sultry and sensational version of all-time classics like "Heartbreak Hotel" and "Blue Suede Shoes". And, although the Dorsey Bros. show might have been his first national appearance, it was the legendary Ed Sullivan performance that truly put him on the map, so to speak. 

Tracks side A: Shake, Rattle And Roll / Flip, Flop And Fly - I Got A Woman - Baby, Let's Play House - Tutti Frutti - Blue Suede Shoes - Heartbreak Hotel - I Was The One - Money Honey

Side B: Don't Be Cruel - Elvis Talks - Love Me Tender - Ready Teddy - Love Me - Hound Dog - Heartbreak Hotel - Too Much - When My Blue Moon Turns To Gold Again - (There'll Be) Peace In The Valley (For Me)

UK Charts

• The “Christmas with Elvis and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra” dropped off the main UK Album chart. 
• The “The Wonder of You” cooperation with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra dropped from #74 to #80 on the Official UK Physical Album Sales chart. 
• The “Christmas with Elvis and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra” album dropped from #54 to #88 on the Official UK   Physical Album Sales chart. 
• The 6-DVD-Box “The Elvis Collection” dropped from #35 to #50 on the Official Uk Music DVD chart. 

European Charts

• The “Christmas with Elvis and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra” dropped off the main Irish Album chart. 
• The “The Real … Elvis” album climbed from #53 to #44 on the Official Scottish Album chart. 
• The “The Platinum Collection” is a re-entry at #96 on the Official Scottish Album chart. 

Billboard charts for the week ending January 13, 2018

• The Elvis Presley Christmas releases dropped off the US Billboard Album Top 200 chart and all other charts.
• The “ELV1S 30 #1 Hits” compilation climbed from #41 to #28 on the Billboard Country Album chart. 
• The “ELV1S 30 #1 Hits” compilation climbed from #49 to #41 on the Billboard Rock Album chart. 
• The “Ultimate Gospel” compilation dropped from #20 to #22 on the Billboard Christian Album chart. 
• The “Playlist: The Very Best Gospel Of Elvis Presley” compilation climbed from #44 to #28 on the Billboard Christian Album chart
• The “The Classic Christmas Album” climbed from #34 to #16 on the Billboard Top Holiday Album chart. 
• The “Christmas with Elvis and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra” dropped from #23 to #25 on the Billboard Top Holiday Album  chart.  
• The “Christmas with Elvis and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra” dropped from #4 to #6 on the Billboard Classical  Album  chart.  
• The “The Wonder of You” cooperation with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra remained steady at #13 on the Billboard Classical  Album  chart.  
• The “Christmas with Elvis and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra” dropped off the Austrian and Swiss album chart.
• The "Elvis – El Disco De Oro" compilation dropped from #22 to #28 on the Spanish Album chart. 

Canadian Charts

• The “Christmas with Elvis and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra” is listed at #34 on the Billboard Canadian Album chart. 
• The “40 Years On - Greatest Hits And More” is listed at #59 on the Billboard Canadian Album chart. 

Charts Down Under

• The “Christmas with Elvis and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra” dropped from #12 to #127 on the Australian Album chart. 
• The “Elvis: The King Of Rock 'N' Roll” DVD climbed from #32 to #9 on the Australian Music DVD chart. 
• The “Christmas with Elvis and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra” dropped off the New Zealand Album chart.

Colonel Parker Has Left The Building

The former house of Elvis Presley's manager Colonel Tom Park at 1215 Gallatin Road South, Madison Tennessee, has been demolished to make space for a carwash. 

Graceland Closed


Talking about closing, due to the snow in Memphis the Graceland Mansion was closed for most of January 12th. and will also be closed January 13, 2018. 


(Source: Official Chart Company / Billboard / Banquet Records / Graceland)

January 12 - Released

Several import albums have been released. The “Rock 'n' On - Volume 1 + 2”, re-issue of the original Australian two volume compilations containing several out-takes. The “The 1972 Elvis Experience” four CD set from the Roll Majesty import-label containing the January 26, 1972 Opening Show, August 11, 1972 Midnight show, August 12, 1972 Midnight show performances and a fourth CD with newly edited bits And pieces from multitrack tapes. And finally the “The Intimate Elvis Presley” compilation from the producers of the Elvis One label with eighteen out-takes. 

(Source: Elvis On CD / Elvis Aktuell)

January 11 - Elvis Presley: The Searcher

The "Elvis Presley - The Searcher, Exploring His Creative Journey" documentary, debuts April 14, 2018. 

This three-hour, two-film presentation focuses on Elvis Presley the musical artist, taking the audience on a comprehensive creative journey from his childhood through the final 1976 Jungle Room recording sessions. 

The films include stunning atmospheric shots taken inside Graceland, Elvis’ iconic home, and feature more than 20 new, primary source interviews with session players, producers, engineers, directors and other artists who knew him or who were profoundly influenced by him. The documentary also features never-before-seen photos and footage from private collections worldwide, and includes an original musical score composed by Pearl Jam lead guitarist Mike McCready.

As previously announced by SXSW, Priscilla Presley, David Porter (legendary Memphis music writer and producer), Thom Zimny (director), Jon Landau (producer) and moderator John Jackson (SVP A&R, Sony Music) will discuss the film, the cultural impact of Elvis’ music and how that impact became the embodiment of rock’n’roll at the 2018 SXSW Festival in March. The panel is expected to cover:

• how Elvis found inspiration in black and white gospel music of Tupelo
• his early experience with the great African-American blues and r’n’b of Memphis
• his evolution as an artist with Sam Phillips
• the creative impact of his time serving in the U.S. Army in Germany
• the creative highs and lows of his career in the 1960s, culminating in the triumphant ’68 special
• an assessment of Elvis as a performing artist in the early ’70s, featuring a discussion of Jon Landau‘s seminal 1971 review of Elvis in concert
• a discussion of the interviews conducted for the film, including insights into the conversations with Scotty Moore, Red West, Bruce Springsteen and Tom Petty, among others
• insight into the creation of the film’s score by Pearl Jam’s Mike McCready
• an inquiry into the artistic and personal struggles that preceded his death in 1977

RCA/Legacy Recordings, a division of Sony Music Entertainment, will release “Elvis Presley: The Searcher," the musical companion to the HBO/Sony Pictures documentary, on Friday, April 6. It will be available in digital and physical configurations.

Elvis Presley: The Searcher is an HBO Documentary Films Presentation in association with Sony Pictures Television; executive producers, Glen Zipper, Priscilla Presley, Jerry Schilling, Andrew Solt, Alan Gasmer and Jamie Salter (chairman and CEO, Authentic Brands Group); producers, Jon Landau and Kary Antholis; directed and produced by Thom Zimny.

(Source: EPE)

January 10 - Ex Wife vs. Ex Girlfriends?

There seems to be some trouble among Elvis Presley's former wife Priscilla and his ex-girlfriends Ginger Alden and Linda Thompson about their roles in the last five years of Elvis Presley's life. 

Read the Facebook post from Ginger Alden and Instagram post by Linda Thompson and make up your mind ...

Ginger Alden wrote:

Dear friends, I have lived my life, happy and normal, trying to stay away from the " Elvis circus" and not hanging onto the " Elvis limelight" throughout the years like so many have done and continue to do. It has come to my attention though, some remarks recently made by Elvis's ex-wife during an Australian interview show called " Sunday night" and I want to take this opportunity, once and for all, to address some things that I have mentioned before, some things that I have not, and some things which I need to clarify although it is very hard to say everything that needs to be said in this one post. 

To begin with, I was the one at Elvis's side and we were engaged. Elvis and his ex-wife had gone their separate ways a few years before Elvis and I began seeing one another and he had no intention of getting back together with her. Let me be clear, he had NO intention of getting back with her. Elvis wanted the two of us to be friends for the sake of his daughter, Lisa Marie. 

In late March, early April of 1977, Elvis was in the hospital with the stomach flu. It was at this time when I first met his ex-wife who had come to visit Graceland where we had a pleasant conversation. 
It is very apparent that since the passing of Elvis, the Estate does not ( nor want) to mention any of the other women in Elvis's life- specifically me, the one woman he was engaged to. Both Elvis and I did not take our engagement lightly. I find the omission of our engagement (as well as my existence) with Elvis bewildering considering Elvis's ex-wife asked for me during Elvis's wake and told me she knew how much Elvis loved me. 

WHAT HAPPENED? It is completely unjust and nothing but a fabricated attempt to re-write history...this disgraceful and absurd denial of the way things truly happened has gone on far too long, right down to the Elvis and Priscilla wedding dolls manufactured a few years back. Really? 
When was the last time you saw a divorced couple being promoted as "happily" married? What a concept! 

Elvis confided in me about many things and I will always be happy that he felt comfortable enough to do so. I recall Elvis mentioning to me that his ex-wife was not interested in his books, as she wanted to hide them away. I told him they should be on shelves. He also mentioned to me that she wanted to use his large plane for a European jewelry venture which he was not happy about. Elvis told me, " She can fly commercial". He also told me about his ex-wife wanting him to set her father up in a wine business in California which he was not pleased about. 

When the news that my book, " Elvis and Ginger" was going to be released, almost immediately, the "Elvis and Priscilla reunion" tale began. Elvis's ex-wife then asked for the "Elvis and Priscilla reunion" tale to be included in a new lie filled book which was being self-published and rushed for release before my book. How do I know this? The editor of that particular book made a public statement that she was witness to this and has since apologized for taking part in the lie filled book which Elvis's ex-wife was photographed holding while smiling along with the author at the Sirius radio station in Memphis. 
Elvis's ex-wife once commented that she was tired of the lies. Well, I am sick and tired of the lies, some of which I have heard were being promoted on the Elvis Sirius radio show. A show which neither Ann- Margret nor myself have been asked to be on. (George Klein did ask me years back, I wasn't ready then, but that seemed to change as time went on by his working for the estate). 

It is my understanding in this particular Australian interview, that Elvis's ex-wife says that during Elvis's last relationship, (my name was never mentioned so I am returning the compliment here) Elvis eventually became unhappy and wanted to end it, even going so far as to say this added to some of his problems. I am appalled and disgusted by these untruths and would like to say to Elvis's ex-wife, how dare you! There are far too many things that I know from Elvis and I certainly don't remember his ex-wife in Lisa Marie's bedroom in the early hours of August 16th when Elvis began discussing wedding plans and setting a date with me. To also put out an untruth that I, in ANY way, contributed to a health problem of Elvis's is nothing but a vicious lie with a hidden agenda and I will not, and REFUSE, to be the scapegoat for a situation that was taking place with enablers that Elvis had in his life long before I came into it. Elvis was not a run down man, pining away for an ex-wife and this is a FACT. 
Elvis and I shared many great times together and tender moments together which I wrote about in my autobiography. Elvis had good days and not so good days during our time together, the same as he did with his ex-wife but Elvis was in a great mood 98% of the time. You had to be there. 

My silence over the years as I worked and then raised my son ( Elvis's ex-wife should understand this, she has a son from a 22 year relationship with another man who is never mentioned, as odd as that is, but I think we know why) only allowed any false stories and speculations to be spread by biographers, most of whom I turned down interviews with. The jealousy surrounding my engagement to Elvis, which he warned me about, has been needless to say, very trying and I have been shocked and angered at the lengths some despicable individuals have gone to in an attempt to diminish Elvis and my relationship. God, myself and Elvis know the truth and these lies and attacks to degrade me or my family must end. 
I don't have a large PR firm that I am paying to represent me but I just want to get some truth out there, hoping others can get a glimpse of what has and does go on behind the scenes in the Elvis world at times. As far as Elvis's ex-wife goes, I will respect her position in Elvis's life when she respects mine.

Linda Thompson on Instagram:

On this special day I want to extend a genuine “thank you” to all the Elvis fans worldwide who have embraced me in your hearts throughout all these years. 💜Although some people have tried to rewrite history, making themselves more a part of the last five years of his life, where are they in these photos & our shared years together? Where are they in any photos of his last years? I don’t mean to be pejorative or confrontational, I just believe in truth and transparency. Elvis loved several women in his lifetime. I was not the only one, but of this I can be sure...we shared a deep, reciprocal love, & I am grateful for our time together. Happy Heavenly birthday to his tender soul. 🙏🏻🌹A LITTLE THING CALLED LIFE.

(Source: FECC / Ginger Alden / Linda Thompson)

January 09 - Premiere of the Searcher

HBO will premieres "Elvis Presley: The Searcher" on April 14, 2018. The films take the audience on a comprehensive creative journey from his childhood through the final 1976 Jungle Room recording sessions. Sony will be releasing a soundtrack CD in conjunction with the documentary. 

Synopsis:
Fans of the King will get an unprecedentedly deep look at his life and music, from his first forays into Memphis blues clubs to his early stardom, up through his late ’60s comeback and exhausting ’70s touring. The nearly three-and-a-half-hour-long, two-part documentary (which will also get a soundtrack released through Sony/Legacy) features new interviews with scholars, stars like Bruce Springsteen and the late Tom Petty, and -- most notably -- Priscilla Presley, who famously met the superstar when she was 14 and was married to him from 1967 to 1973.

(Source: FECC / HBO)

January 08 - Happy Birthday Proclamation for the Rebel

The proclamation and cutting of the birthday cake for the 83th. birthday of Elvis Presley took place 10.00 AM in Memphis, Tennessee. It featured a ceremony with Graceland officials, a birthday cake cutting and proclamation of Elvis Presley Day by Memphis and Shelby County officials. 

In 2018 concerts and exhibitions on five continents and there will be a new record is due around Elvis Week 2018 with “Elvis like you have never heard him before” according to Joel Weinshanker. 

Graceland also marked the occasion by officially opening its newest exhibit at Elvis Presley’s Memphis. The “Hollywood Backlot” exhibit features production sets and artifacts from the acclaimed television series “Sun Records,” produced by ThinkFactory Media and executive produced by Leslie Greif. Filmed in Memphis and aired on CMT network in 2017, the eight-episode series chronicled the meteoric rise to fame of pioneering musicians Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis. Guided by Sun Records founder and producer Sam Phillips, these young musicians combined the styles of “hillbilly country” with the 1950s R&B sound created by artists like Muddy Waters, B.B. King, Fats Domino and Ike Turner, and changed the course of music forever. 

Included in this one-of-a-kind exhibit are iconic set pieces that will transport guests back to the historic Memphis Recording Service studio and WHBQ Radio – exactly as these legendary locations appeared in the series, set in the late 1950’s during the birth of rock ‘n’ roll.

Fans who are unable to attend can watch the ceremony live via Elvis Presley's Graceland Livestream >> here. 

Promo for the Rebel

Here is the official promotional flyer for the upcoming Follow That Dream / Flaming Star book "Rebel with a Cause". Click on the flyer for the details. 

Elvis Birthday Auction Hits A High Note

The Elvis Birthday auction at Graceland made over a Half-Million Dollars. The annual Birthday auction of rare and authentic Elvis Presley artefacts and memorabilia featured an impressive 271 lots on the grounds of Graceland. 

Elvis enthusiasts from around the world bid competitively for a chance to own a piece of memorabilia. The mansion and all artefacts in the Graceland Archives continue to be owned by Lisa Marie and are not for sale. Notable bids on Saturday

Diamond and Platinum Ring Gifted to Linda Thompson for $27,500;
Globe-Shaped Free-Standing Wooden Bar from Elvis' Beverly Hills Home which brought $22,500
Elvis' Colt "Police Positive" .32 Caliber Revolver which sold for $20,000;
1954 Elvis Poster One of the Earliest Known Concert Performance Posters  Eagle's Nest- $18,750
RIAA Gold Record Award for Elvis' 1968 LP Elvis (The 1968 "Comeback TV Special") - Awarded in 1969 which sold for $17,500;
Leather Rocking Chair from the Jungle Room at Graceland which sold for $17,500;
RIAA Gold Record Award for Elvis' 1977 Single "My Way" which sold for $13,750;
1970's Elvis Chief of Police Badge which sold for $8,125;

Numerous films, photos and original acetate recordings were also popular among bidders. The next Elvis Auction at Graceland will take place during the 41st Anniversary Elvis Week on Sunday, August 12, 2018.

(Source: FECC / FTD / EPE / Elvis information Network)

January 07 - Elvis' Memphis #3 (Updated)

Elvis Presley's Memphis was voted the #3 Best New Attraction of 2017 in the United States. The top 3 winners in this category:
1.Wonders of Wildlife - Springfield, Mo.
2.Morgan's Inspiration Island - San Antonio
3.Elvis Presley's Memphis - Memphis

A panel of experts partnered with 10 Best editors to picked the initial nominees, and the top 10 winners were determined by popular vote. Experts Marla Cimini (USA Today), Eric Grossman, Gerrish Lopez and Christopher Parr (Pursuitist) were chosen based on their knowledge and experience of American travel.

Released

From the producers of the Elvis One label four titles were released; "Suppose - The Home Recordings Vol. 2", "Night & Day In Nashville", "Army Days 1958 - 1959 Revisited Part One" and "Army Days 1959 - 1960 Revisited Part Two", all containing previously released hout-takes and home-recordings. 

Also released is the 10 CD set "The King Strikes Back - Summer Festival 1974" from the Audionics import-label containing for the first time ever, all rehearsal and live soundboard recordings released through the years by various bootleg labels and by the official collectors FTD label. Each disc is placed in individually designed cardboard sleeve and there is a 16-page booklet, full of high quality August/September 1974 photos (including several rare ones) and reproductions of fan reviews, published in the hard-to-find Rex Martin “Elvis News Service Weekly” magazine, back in 1974. 

(Source: Brian Quinn on FECC / 10Best / Elvis On CD)

January 06 - Unpacking On Tour

Two import box-sets have been released. The 10 CD set “Elvis Presley - The King Strikes Back! (Summer Festival 1974)” from the Audionics label and the 9 CD / book set “Elvis On Tour - 45th Anniversary Deluxe Edition” from the Amiga label. 

1969 Press Conference Book?

According to a posting on the FECC forum another book project is due from Joe Tunzi’s JAT Publishing. This book, cooperation with Paul Lichter,  should be on the 1969 Press conference.

(Source: FECC / Elvis Information Network / Elvis Aktuell)