May 30 - Houston, I’m Back Again

The VV Records import label released ‘Houston, I’m Back Again’ featuring the June 4th and 5th 1975 Houston concerts on vinyl with the unreleased June 5, 1975 also included on CD. 

This release comes in four different editions. 

Black vinyl edition - 120 copies
Double vinyl album, housed in gatefold sleeve holding the CD and a 30 x 30 cm art-card.

Colored vinyl edition: 2 editions of 80 copies
Double red vinyl edition housed in a gatefold cover holding the CD, an exclusive LP-sized art-card and art-sticker. 
Double blue vinyl edition housed in a gatefold cover holding the CD, an exclusive LP-sized art-card and art-sticker. 

Deluxe Boxed Edition - 2 editions of 35 copies
Two different versions of a box holding double gold colored vinyl,  a digi-pack with the CD, sticker, keyring with bottle opener, (black or blue colored) t-shirt and a certificate.

Test Pressing - 10 copies
A box holding the double LP, stickers, t-shirt and certificate. 

(Source: Various / FECC)

May 30 - Charts May 2020 - Week 5

The weekly global Elvis Presley chart update.

U.S. Billboard charts:

• Billboard Top 200 Album chart: ‘The Essential Elvis Presley’ dropped from #138 to #153.
• Billboard Catalog Album chart: ‘The Essential Elvis Presley’ dropped from #37 to #42.
• Billboard Top Christian Album chart: ‘Elvis: Ultimate Gospel’ dropped from #32 to #36. 
• Billboard Top Rock Album chart: ‘The Essential Elvis Presley’ dropped from #16 to #21.
• Billboard Top Country Album chart: ‘The Essential Elvis Presley’ dropped from #16 to #17.

Official UK charts:

• Official UK Album chart: ‘The 50 Greatest Hits’ climbed from #56 to #53. 
• Official UK Streaming Album chart: ‘The 50 Greatest Hits’ climbed from #46 to #45.
• Official UK Music DVD chart: ‘Elvis The Searcher’ re-entry #27.
• Official UK Music DVD chart: ‘ The Elvis Collection’ climbed from #48 to #44.

(Source: UK Mix / Billboard / Official Chart Company)

May 29 - That’s How Massive It Is

Some news from FTD for the collectors here: According to the latest The Man and His Music magazine and author David English the upcoming Follow That Dream ‘That’s The Way It Is’ project will be an a double 300-page long-book / 8 CD set housed within a sturdy slipcase. 

The CDs all of the rehearsals from July and August 1970 marathon recording session. The label works towards a release at the end of June or early July.

(FECC / The man and His Music / David English)

May 28 - Brendan Bowyer Died

Irish performer and Royal Showband’s frontman Brendan Bowyer died in Las Vegas, he was 81. 

In the sixties his version of ‘Kiss Me Quick” beat Elvis’ version on the Irish charts, hitting #1. He first met Elvis in 1966, on the set of the movie ‘California Holiday’ (‘Spinout’). Later Elvis would attend his shows at the Stardust Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. He made the Irish charts in 1977 with his tribute ‘Thank You Elvis’. 

(Source: Irish Times)

May 27 - Rare 1956 Concert Poster Up For Auction

Up for auction at Heritage Auctions is a rare 1956 advertising flyer. 

From the auction site:

Elvis Presley Spring 1956 Two-Date Ohio Concert Handbill. A very early Elvis Presley advertising flyer for four concerts in Ohio when "Heartbreak Hotel" was the #1 single and Elvis Presley the #1 album in the country. A terrific design using the King's famous "tonsil shot" photo, which blessedly takes up ¾ of the handbill.

"Elvis Presley Plus 8 All-Star Acts," the flyer proclaims. We're sure Colonel Tom Parker wasn't involved in designing this, due to the latter five words being much bigger than Elvis's name. But this very rare item – some long-time Elvis authorities we contacted had never seen it before – has so much going for it. Nothing's missing: the great picture, the venue names, the dates and concert times, the ticket-buying locations including addresses, and the ticket prices. It's all there. With the two cities being only 70 miles apart, it's a good guess that one promoter handled both shows, and used joint advertising. He couldn't have known in advance how lucky he was to get the newly anointed King of Rock 'n' Roll for four concerts in his two mid-sized Midwestern cities, with a #1 album and single to boot.

Great provenance on this piece, which originated with a woman who owned a record store in the area which sold tickets to the shows. Needless to say, the first time Heritage has ever offered one for sale. We wish there were comparable ones made for other Elvis shows in 1956, but usually nothing was needed... he would always sell out in an instant.

Measures 5 ¾" x 10 ½" and grades to Very Good Plus condition. 

More Information: The thin-paper handbill has some very natural overall toning, plus a darker toning strip along right side starting small at the top and widening as it heads down, but touches none of the photo or lettering. Also a little additional light browning in bottom left and center areas, and some light creasing at the bottom as well. A very slight triangular surface impression below the "A" in "Acts," and a faint diagonal line in upper right corner which is not a crease, so may be a slight printer's flaw.

The details can be found on the >>> auction site.

(Source: Heritage Auctions)

May 24 - On The Auction Block

Julien’s announced another ‘Music Icons’ auction June 19th and June 20th and 2020. 

Some of the most iconic memorabilia and important artifacts ever assembled, representing the legendary multi-genre music artists of our time will be offered: Kurt Cobain, Nirvana, Prince, Elvis Presley, The Beatles, Madonna, Michael Jackson, Johnny Cash, Jim Morrison, the Rolling Stones, Queen, David Bowie, The Police, Guns N’ Roses, Bob Marley, Elton John, Whitney Houston, Cher, and many more. 

It features several Elvis Presley items:

• Elvis Presley army patches.
• Deputy sheriff badge from Forrest County
• Photographs by Terry O’Neill and black and white contact sheets likely from the set of ‘Blue Hawaii’
• RIAA-certified Platinum Record Award for ‘Aloha From Hawaii Via Satellite’. 
• RIAA-certified Gold Record Award for ‘Something for Everybody’.
• An original ticket for the ‘68 ‘Comeback Special’.
• Concert scarfs.
• Elvis Presley stage worn belt and a blue macramé beaded belt.
• Clothing: shirts, jackets, hats, movie-wardrobe and a tie worn during the NY press conference.
• Jewelry: Gold And Diamond Rings, a gold nugget watch, brooch, cufflinks, gold lighters a TCB and TLC Necklaces.
• Furniture, paintings, fighting knives and books.
• Studio equipment (re-Listed from last year).
• Three cars: a 1966 Chevrolet Impala, a 1977 White On White Lincoln Mark V and a 1977 Chevrolet 30 Series Silverado.
• Elvis Presley “EP” guitar-pick.

Visit >>> Julien's Auction for the details. 

The World''s Greatest Conspiracy Theories

The UK newspaper Sunday People ran the article 'The World''s Greatest Conspiracy Theories' featuring conspiracy theories on Elvis Presley death.

Happy Birthday

Priscilla Presley, Elvis' firs and only wife, celebrated her 75th birthday. Congratulations!

(Source: ElvisMatters / Juliens / Colin B FECC)

May 23 - A Plan of God

Further to the premiere of the exclusive photo of Elvis holding baby, Fawn Forbess, the Elvis Information Network added more information about Darrin Memmer's new book entitled 'A Plan of God & SUN: The Magic of Without You'.

Based on new first-hand accounts with those who knew Elvis during his high school and Sun Records days, and an analysis of previously published interviews, the book offers surprising new information about Elvis' Humes High School Class & Carnival Variety / Talent Show performances. Besides that it also offers a new perspective of the back story to the recording of Elvis' breakthrough single, 'That's All Right, Mama', and as the book title suggests 'Without You'. 

Elvis historians will also be pleased to know that the book should feature some very rare archival material from Elvis' SUN days. This includes the previously unpublished photo of Elvis from 1960 which Mary Ruth Forbess and Ms Forbess's important and revealing recollections of Elvis at Humes High.

Happy Birthday

Elvis Presley's former girlfriend Linda Thompson celebrated her 70th birthday.

(Source: Elvis Information Network / Facebook)

May 23 - Charts may 2020 - Week 4

The weekly global Elvis Presley chart update. In the U.S. Elvis Presley is going up, in the U.K. he is going down on the charts. 

U.S. Billboard charts:

• Billboard Album Top 200 chart: ‘The Essential Elvis Presley’ climbed from #157 to #138.
• Billboard Catalog Album chart: ‘The Essential Elvis Presley’ climbed from #47 to #37.
• Billboard Top Rock Album chart: ‘The Essential Elvis Presley’ climbed from #23 to #16.
• Billboard Top Country Album chart: ‘The Essential Elvis Presley’ climbed from #19 to #16.
• Billboard Top Christian Album chart: ‘Elvis: Ultimate Gospel’ climbed from #33 to #32. 

Official UK charts:

• Official UK Album chart: ‘The 50 Greatest Hits’ dropped from #47 to #56.
• Official UK Streaming Album chart: ‘The 50 greatest Hits’ dropped from #36 to #46.
• Official UK Music DVD chart: ‘Elvis Lives - Live From Memphis’ re-entry #32. 
• Official UK Music DVD chart: ‘The Elvis Collection” dropped from #34 to #48.

(Source: Official Chart Company / UK Mix / Billboard)

May 22 - Just For Old Time Sake

Due soon from the U.K. based Rockwell Records is the limited edition vinyl compilation ‘Just For Old Time Sake’. The 18-track compilation comes in two different sleeves. 

Side A: Something Blue / Gonna Get Back Home Somehow / (Such An) Easy Question / Fountain of Love / Just For Old Time Sake / I Feel That I'vs Know You Forever / Suspicion / She's Not You / Just Tell Her Jim Said Hello.


Side B: I Don't Want To / We're Coming In Loaded / Thanks to the Rolling Sea / Where Do You Come From / Girls! Girls! Girls! / Return to Sender / Because of Love / The Walls have Ears / Song of the Shrimp.

(Source: Facebook)

May 21 - Sun Studio To Re-open

Sun Studio announced it will re-open to the public on June 1st. 2020. 

“We’ve missed everyone these past few months and it’s officially time to get back to rockin’ and rollin’! We’ll see you all June 1st. Check in on the website for updated safety protocol before you come. As always, tours will be available first come, first served” 

Meanwhile the Elvis Birthplace Museum is waiting to reopen. When exactly it will reopen is still uncertain because of the CV19 pandemic. Executive Director Dick Guyton said: "I think a lot of people are ready for this to be eased up a little bit so they can do some things that they want to do for their leisure. It's always good for people to be here, we're excited about them being here, and we just want them to keep coming back." - Guyton is waiting to hear from the governor when museums in Mississippi may be permitted to reopen.

(Source: Sun Studio / Memphis Press Scimitar)

May 20 - From Elvis In Nashville

The RCA Victor release ‘From Elvis In Nashville’ with August 7th as the release date appears to be confirmed. The set is availabe for pre-order as a 4 CD set and as a double LP.

This set should contain tracks from the June 1970 Nashville recording sessions. The songs from those sessions can be found on 'That's The Way It Is', 'Elvis Country,' 'Love Letters from Elvis' and 'Elvis Now.' More information when available.

As a bonus the CD box includes a promotional keychain and badge and the vinyl set should contain a series of postcards according to the Memphis Mansion. 

(Source Fan Music Shop / Memphis Mansion)

May 19 - New Book On First Years

Darrin Memmer announced the release of his new - untitled - book examining Elvis’ performances at Humes High school and the recording of his iconic single That’s All Right (Mama)’.

In advance of the book’s publication, Darrin has provided the Elvis Information Network with the first public view of a never-before-seen picture of Elvis Presley holding baby, Fawn Forbess, in 1960.

The 100 Greatest Debut Singles of All Time

Rolling Stone Magazine published the ‘The 100 Greatest Debut Singles of All Time’. 

A great debut single is the opening line in a conversation you never want to end, and hearing a band or artist get it right on their first try is one of the greatest thrills in music. 

The list is heavily titled toward singles that became building blocks to great careers, though there are a couple of seismic one-hit wonders here as well — after all, there’s something to be said for perfecting your musical vision in three minutes, remaking the world, and getting out of the way to let future generations make sense of the mess you’ve created.

Elvis Presley’s ‘That’s All Right’ is listed at No. 8. 

The magazine notes: Elvis Presley was a dirt-poor Mississippi hillbilly kid, but he was cocky — he even wore a pink suit to his audition. You can hear that confidence blast out of “That’s All Right.” Elvis was just trying to cut a straight country ballad one night at Sun Studios, when he started messing with a blues tune, Arthur Crudup’s “That’s All Right.” Sam Phillips rolled tape, and the rest was history. It didn’t much resemble the previous version — Elvis revamped the chords, the lyrics, the tone — and it became something new. He also added his own girlish sighs at the end: “I need your looovin’!” It made him a legend overnight. 

The Top 5:

5. Chuck Berry - ‘Maybellene’.
4. Run-DMC - ‘Sucker M.C.’s / It’s Like That’.
3. The Sex Pistols - ‘Anarchy in the U.K.’.
2. The Jackson 5 - ‘I Want You Back’.
1. Britney Spears - ‘…Baby One More Time’.

For the complete list visit Rolling Stone.

(Source: Elvis Information Network / Rolling Stone)

May 17 - The Gates Of Graceland Are Re-Opening on May 21

EPE announced that the gates of Graceland will re-open on May 21st. With reduced capacity, guest will have the opportunity to see Graceland as never before. 

From the press release: We are so excited to see you back at Elvis Presley's Graceland!

100+ acres dedicated to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll will welcome back guests beginning Thursday, May 21. Graceland is committed to the health and safety of our guests and associates and has been working diligently to reconfigure all operations - including tours, retail and restaurants - to meet or exceed social distancing, capacity, and health and safety guidelines. 

With Mansion tours reduced to 25% capacity, guests will have the unique opportunity to walk in Elvis’ footsteps like never before - in your own personal mansion tour space spread out from other guests.      

The state-of-the-art entertainment and exhibit complex over 200,000-square-feet in size, Elvis Presley’s Memphis offers guests the opportunity to tour the largest collection of Elvis memorabilia in the world in their own space, at their own pace. During the re-opening phase, restaurant capacities will be reduced by 50% and outdoor patio seating will also be available.      

In addition to reduced capacities, Graceland’s new health and safety protocols include all associates wearing masks (guests are encouraged to wear masks, as well), temperature checks for both guests and associates, 6 feet social distancing markers placed throughout the property, enhanced sanitization procedures featuring commercial-grade continuous cleaning, hand sanitization stations and touchless payment options.  

“We are helping Memphis and Tennessee to get back to some sense of normality,” stated Joel Weinshanker, Managing Partner of Graceland Holdings. “We’re doing this in a safe manner and in the best interest for our community, our employees and our guests. Together, we will succeed.”    

Greatest Gigs Ever

The UK Sunday People Newspaper featured an 8-page supplement on the Greatest Gigs Ever! Elvis Presley's 1968 Comeback Special is featured on the list.

And our boy gets a mention

(Source: Graceland)

May 16 - Five Movies

Paramount will release the 5 DVD set ‘Elvis 5 Movies’ containing the movies ‘G.I. Blues,’ ‘Blue Hawaii,’ ‘Girls! Girls! Girls!,’ ‘Roustabout’ and ‘Fun In Acapulco’. These DVDs have region code 2 and come with German and French audio and Danish, French, German, Italian and Swedish subtitles. 

The Coloring Sessions

Sony launched ‘the coloring sessions’ website. "We’re lucky to have a selection of some of the most beautiful, striking and creative album artwork of all time at our fingertips. We wanted to give our artists’ audiences the chance to take a moment out, explore their own creativity, drive focus and ultimately aid relaxation … By pairing music with the simple exercise of coloring in, we hope to create a mindful environment and a sense of calm for the audience'" 

Naturally, the very first classic album cover offered is 'Elvis Presley', the Kings first RCA album from 1956 which you can colour direct on the Sony site or you can send to yourself and print out.

Try it >>> The Coloring Sessions.

(Source: Elvis Club Berlin / Zavi /The Elvis Express / The Coloring Sessions)

May 16 - Charts May 2020 - Week 3

The weekly global Elvis Presley chart update. Again little movement, the same two albums continue to sell steadily in the U.S. and the U.K. 

Charts

• Billboard Album Top 200 chart: ‘The Essential Elvis Presley’ climbed from #161 to #157.
• Billboard Catalog Album chart: ‘The Essential Elvis Presley’ dropped from #45 to #47.
• Billboard Top Christian Album chart: ‘Elvis: Ultimate Gospel’ climbed from #46 to #33.
• Billboard Top Rock Album chart: ‘The Essential Elvis Presley’ remained steady at #23. 
• Billboard Top Country Album chart: ‘The Essential Elvis Presley’ dropped from #16 to #19. 

Official UK charts

• Official UK Album chart: ‘The 50 Greatest Hits’ climbed from #57 to #47.
• Official UK Streaming Album chart: ‘The 50 Greatest Hits’ climbed from #46 to #36.
• Official UK Music DVD chart: ‘The Elvis Collection’ dropped from #24 to #34.

(Source: UK Mix / Billboard / Official Chart Company)

May 15. - Home Is Where The Tracklisting Is

This is the tracklisting of the 'Home Is Where The Heart Is', the Memphis Mansion support picture disc for the campaign with the same name. The disc features the images of the fans who supported the mansion.

Side One
1. Home Is Where The Heart Is (Original Edit Stereo Master)
2. Introduction / I'm Counting On You
3. Elvis speaks / I Want You, I Need You, I Love You
4. Elvis speaks / Party (Alternate Master)
5. Elvis speaks / As Long as I Have You
6. Elvis speaks / I Will Be Home Again

Side Two
1. Shoppin' Around
2. Elvis speaks / I Want You With Me
3. Elvis speaks / I'm Comin' Home
4. Elvis speaks / Ku-U-I-Po
5. Elvis speaks / Because Of Love
6. Elvis speaks / I Got Lucky

Released

The Memphis Recording Service triple fold-out LP ‘Elvis In Living Stereo' has been released. This set is available on clear and on black vinyl. You can order it through the banner in the inside-menu.

Deleted

The Follow That Dream collector’s label deleted the titles ‘The Wonder of You’, ‘Elvis at the International’, 'Elvis: Las Vegas ’74’ and ‘Elvis The Return to Vegas’ from their back catalogue. 

(Source: Memphis Mansion / Anthony Stuchbury / Chris Giles / The Elvis London)

May 14 - Elvis Rocks Tracks on Paradise Road

Just released is a 2020 re-issue of the 5-CD box ‘100 Super Rocks,’ it comes in three different versions; the German, Australian and French version.

From the press release: 
Presented here is another fan favorite from the 70’s. ‘100 Super Rocks’ is without doubt one of the best distributed Elvis LP Box sets ever.  There have been several very popular editions of this boxset available in France, Australia and Germany. Each with their own unique artwork.

- the German edition: with 5 CDs, a booklet and a wonderful 6.5 x 9.5 inch poster. 
- the Australian edition: with 5 CDs, a booklet and wonderful 6.5 x 9.5 inch poster.
- the French edition: includes 5 CDs and 7 miniature posters (5 X 7 inch)

Each set includes a fantastic bonus disc with rare and hard to find versions of songs present on the original box set. A great spinner!

CD 1: I Forgot To Remember To Forget - Blue Moon Of Kentucky - I Don't Care If The Sun Don't Shine - Good Rockin' Tonight - Milkcow Blues Boogie - You're A Heartbreaker - Baby Let's Play House - I'm Left, You're Right, She's Gone - Just Because - I Got A Woman - Heartbreak Hotel - Money Honey - My Baby Left Me - One Sided Love Affair - So Glad You're Mine - Tutti Frutti - Lawdy Miss Clawdy - Shake, Rattle And Roll - Paralyzed - When My Blue Moon Turns To Gold Again - Long Tall Sally - Too Much - Anyplace Is Paradise - Ready Teddy - Rip It Up

CD 2: Hound Dog - Don't Be Cruel (To A Heart That's True) - Anyway You Want Me (That's How I Will Be) - Got A Lot O'livin' To Do! - All Shook Up - Mean Woman Blues - I Beg Of You - Blueberry Hill - Teddy Bear - Treat Me Nice - Jailhouse Rock - I Want To Be Free - Baby I Don't Care - Santa Claus Is Back In Town - Wear My Ring Around Your Neck - Hard Headed Woman - Trouble - New Orleans - Dixieland Rock - Lover Doll - King Creole - I Need Your Love Tonight - A Big Hunk O'Love - Ain't That Loving You Baby - (Now And Then There's) A Fool Such As I

CD 3: I Got Stung - Make Me Know It - Stuck On You - A Mess Of Blues - It Feels So Right - Fever - Dirty, Dirty Feeling - Such A Night - Girl Next Door Went A Walkin' - Reconsider Baby - Blue Suede Shoes - I Feel So Bad - (Marie's The Name) His Latest Flame - Little Sister - Follow That Dream - Good Luck Charm - Rock-A-Hula Baby - King Of The Whole Wide World - Girls! Girls! Girls! - Return To Sender - Bossa Nova Baby - (You're The) Devil In Disguise - Witchcraft - Memphis Tennessee - (It's A) Long Lonely Highway

CD 4: Kissin' Cousins - What'd I Say - Little Egypt - Girl Happy - Blue River - Easy Come, Easy Go - Double Trouble - Guitar Man - Big Boss Man - Speedway - She's A Machine - Rubberneckin' - Suspicious Minds - Johnny B. Good - My Babe - Mystery Train / Tiger Man - I Was Born About 10000 Years Ago - I Got My Mojo Working - Patch It Up - Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On - Proud Mary - C. C. Rider - Polk Salad Annie - Burning Love - Steamroller Blues

CD 5 - Bonus Songs: Heartbreak Hotel (Take 6) - Rip It Up (Take 14) - I Beg Of You (Take 1) - I Need Your Love Tonight (Take 5) - A Fool Such As I (Take 4 & 5) - I Got Stung (Take 12) - Rock A Hula Baby (Unedited Mono Master) - Little Egypt (Remake) - Guitar Man (Take 5) - When My Blue Moon Turns To Gold Again 25.06.1068 - Rehearsal) - Blue Moon Of Kentucky (25.06.1968 - Rehearsal) - Baby Let’s Play House (29.07.1970 - Rehearsal) - My Baby Left Me(29.07.1970 - Rehearsal) - Little Sister(29.07.1970 - Rehearsal) - A Big Hunk O’love (31.03.1972 - Rehearsal # 2) - See See Rider (31.03.1972 - Rehearsal # 1) - Proud Mary (31.03.1972 - Rehearsal # 2) - Return To Sender (01.08.1976 - Live) - Reconsider Baby (21.02.1977 - Live) - Blueberry Hill (13.02.1977 - Live)

Tracks ‘N’ Grooves

The Petticoat Records import-label released a news colored LP entitled 'Tracks ‘N’ Grooves' filled with seventies classics.

From the press release: 
This high quality album features 13 rare and hard to find alternate versions of these seventies. The album comes on 180 Gr. gold colored or clear that will find the way to your record player over and over again. And as always, the disc is housed in a stunning full color sleeve, suitable for framing. With the set comes a CD with the same content. 

Side A: Proud Mary (18.04.1972 - Live) - Mary In The Morning (Take 4) - Mystery Train / Tiger Man (22.08.1969 - Live) - Where Do I Go From Here (Different Mix) - Stranger In The Crowd (Take 9 - Rough Mix) - The Sound Of Your Cry (Unedited Master) - Steamroller Blues (Single Mix)

Side B: Walk A Mile In My Shoes (11.08.1970 - Live) - There’s A Honky Tonk Angel (Take1) - Burning Love (Take 4) - Separate Ways (Take 21 - Undubbed Master) - The Fool (Unedited, Undubbed Master) - I Got A Feeling In My Body (Take 4)

CD: Proud Mary (18.04.1972 - Live) - Mary In The Morning (Take 4) - Mystery Train / Tiger Man (22.08.1969 - Live) - Where Do I Go From Here (Different Mix) - Stranger In The Crowd (Take 9 - Rough Mix) - The Sound Of Your Cry (Unedited Master) - Steamroller Blues (Single Mix) - Walk A Mile In My Shoes (11.08.1970 - Live) - There’s A Honky Tonk Angel (Take1) - Burning Love (Take 4) - Separate Ways (Take 21 - Undubbed Master) - The Fool (Unedited, Undubbed Master) - I Got A Feeling In My Body (Take 4)

From Sunset Boulevard To Paradise Road

Now available is a limited edition of ‘From Sunset Boulevard To Paradise Road’. This is an ultra limited edition with white and purple colored vinyl. 

From the press release: 
August 1974 is a remarkable period in Elvis’ career. A new Vegas engagement was ahead of him and Elvis and his loyal musicians had plans for a new and refreshing show, which they were going to perform for a two week period. Probably to avoid getting bored from doing the same year in and year out, they went to rehearse some new songs to create the new setlist.

Fortunately the rehearsal from August 16 was recorded on a 2 track cassette deck and is presented here in its ultimate form. Originally released way back in 1995 it was time for an update. Although the rehearsal and the show have been re-released by several other labels, they were simply badly remastered copies of the original release. Sometimes even being incomplete and sounding very thin due to the high level of noise reduction and compression. 

An exception must be made for some tracks in original binaural sound that were released some years back. The original master tape has been recorded in binaural but quality wise it left a lot to desire. 

In 1995 a straight copy of the master tape was used to create a more balanced mix of this remarkable recording. For this re-release an early “work in progress” version is used which contains less reverb than the version originally released. The recording has been painstakingly restored, resulting in what we believe to be the ultimate sounding and most complete outing of this remarkable rehearsal and the show.

During the opening night ‘Also Sprach Zarathustra’ and ‘See See Rider’ were replaced by ‘Big Boss Man’ and were followed by ‘Proud Mary’ and ‘Down In The Alley.’ Most likely the audience was very surprised by the new setlist. 

Remarkably enough the next night the show went back to (pretty much) normal. Songs like ‘Down In The Alley,’ ‘Good Time Charlie’s Got The Blues’, ‘Never Been To Spain’ and ‘My Baby Left Me’ were not played again during this engagement. 

So without any doubt the opening night concert is one of his most unique shows. The reason for the abrupt ending of the new refreshing setlist can only be guessed, but most likely Elvis fell out of his comfort zone and the audience was more pleased with the good old ‘I Got A Woman’ and ‘All Shook Up’. Some of the rehearsed songs did survive during this two week engagement. For example It’s ‘Midnight’ and ‘If You Talk In Your Sleep ,’ and ‘I’m Leavin’’ became regular performed songs during these two weeks.

CD 1 August 16 1974 Rehearsal Pt. 1 - RCA Studios Hollywood/California
01 If You Love Me (Let Me Know)
02 If You Love Me (Let Me Know) #2
03 Promised Land
04 Promised Land #2
05 Down In The Alley
06 Down In The Alley #2
07 It’s Midnight
08 It’s Midnight #2
09 Your Love’s Been A Long Time Coming
10 Good Time Charlie’s Got The Blues
11 Softly As I Leave You
12 Softly As I Leave You #2

CD 2 August 16 1974 Rehearsal Pt. 2 - RCA Studios / Hollywood, California
01 I’m Leavin’
02 The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face
03 Proud Mary
04 If You Talk In Your Sleep
05 If You Love Me Let Me Know #
06 If You Love Me Let Me Know #4
07 The Twelfth Of Never
08 Faded Love
09 Just Pretend

CD 3 - Live August 19 1974 - Opening Show -  Las Vegas Hilton / Las Vegas, Nv
01 Big Boss Man
02 Proud Mary
03 Down In The Alley
04 Good Time Charlie’s Got The Blues
05 Never Been To Spain
06 It’s Midnight
07 If You Talk In Your Sleep
08 I’m Leavin’
09 Let Me Be There
10 Softly As I Leave You
11 If You Love Me (Let Me Know)
12 Love Me Tender
13 Polk Salad Annie
14 Introductions
15 Promised Land
16 Introduction Of Telly Savalas
17 My Baby Left Me
18 Bridge Over Troubled Water
19 Fever
20 Hound Dog
21 Can’t Help Falling In Love (Incomplete)

CD 4 - August 16 1974 Rehearsal In Binaural Stereo - RCA Studios / Hollywood, California
01 If You Love Me (Let Me Know) #2 **
02 Promised Land #1
03 Down In The Alley
04 Down In The Alley #2
05 It’s Midnight #2
06 Your Love’s Been A Long Lime Coming **
07 Good Time Charlie’s Got The Blues
08 Softly As I Leave You #1
09 I’m Leavin’ **
10 The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face
11 Proud Mary
12 If You Talk In Your Sleep
13 If You Love Me (Let Me Know) #3
14 If You Love Me (Let Me Know) #4
15 Twelfth Of Never
16 Faded Love
17 Just Pretend
18 Twelfth Of Never (Official Released Version)
19 Twelfth Of Never (David Briggs Overdub)
**Technical Issues

Vinyl Side 1
01 If You Love Me (Let Me Know)
02 If You Love Me (Let Me Know) #2
03 Promised Land
04 Promised Land #2
05 Down In The Alley
06 Down In The Alley #2
07 It’s Midnight

Vinyl Side 2
01 It’s Midnight #2
02 Your Love’s Been A Long Time Coming
03 Good Time Charlie’s Got The Blues
04 Softly As I Leave You
05 Softly As I Leave You #2
06 I’m Leavin’

Vinyl Side 3
01 The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face
02 Proud Mary
03 If You Talk In Your Sleep
04 If You Love Me Let Me Know #3

Vinyl Side 4
01 If You Love Me Let Me Know #4
02 The Twelfth Of Never
03 Faded Love
04 Just Pretend

Vinyl Side 5
01 Big Boss Man
02 Proud Mary
03 Down In The Alley
04 Good Time Charlie’s Got The Blues
05 Never Been To Spain
06 It’s Midnight
07 If You Talk In Your Sleep

Vinyl Side 6
01 I’m Leavin’
02 Let Me Be There
03 Softly As I Leave You
04 If You Love Me (Let Me Know)
05 Love Me Tender
06 Polk Salad Annie

Vinyl Side 7
01 Introductions
02 Promised Land
03 Introduction Of Telly Savalas
04 My Baby Left Me
05 Bridge Over Troubled Water
06 Fever
07 Hound Dog
08 Can’t Help Falling In Love (Incomplete)

Vinyl Side 8
01 Twelfth Of Never (David Briggs Overdub)

Bonus Binaural Tracks
02 Promised Land #1
03 It’s Midnight #2
04 Proud Mary
05 If You Talk In Your Sleep
06 If You Love Me (Let Me Know) #3
07 Faded Love  

(Source: various)

May 13 - Behind The Lock-down

The book 'Elvis: Behind The Scenes Speedway & Stay Away Joe' by Erik Lorentzen has been postponed. After a six week Corona lock-down the printer started up this week. It will take three to four weeks for the book to be ready for shipment. 

(Source: UEPS / Eric Lorentzen)

May 12 - Home Is Where The Heart Is

Here is a preview of the 'Home Is Where The Heart Is' vinyl single that will be released by the Danish Memphis Mansion as part of their campaign with the same title. The version on the album is the original edit as featured on the EP. The single version is the originally recorded complete unedited master.

The song is coupled with 'King of the Whole Wide World'. An album with the same title is due to follow. The single is limited to 300 copies on red, white and blue colored vinyl, 100 copies of each color. When you buy the set of three singles you get the ad as a poster.

You van pre-order the single at the >>> Memphis Mansion website.

(Source: Henrik Knudsen)

May 11 - Songwriter Mark Barkan Died

Songwriter Mark Barkan, died at his home in New York City. He was 85. Elvis Presley recorded ‘Big Love Big Heartache,’ ‘How Would You Like to Be’ and ‘I'll Take Love’ (co)written by him. 

(Source: The Telegraph)

May 10 - The Entertainer, All Shook Up On Tour

The Dutch Elvis One label announced the release of three new compilations: ‘All Shook Up, Across The Country 1957,’ ‘The Elvis On Tour Recordings’ and ‘The Man, The Legend, The Entertainer’. 

From the press release ‘All Shook Up, Across The Country 1957’: 

Elvis One presents ‘All Shook Up! - Across The Country 1957’. A great collection of 1957 live performances, interviews and radio reports, including a little more complete version of the Ed Sullivan Show from January 6, including an extra announcement from Ed Sullivan and the end theme of the show. Also some very rare recordings from the Midwest tour from March and the complete news report from Portland, Oregon, September 2. But there’s more to enjoy! Follow Elvis across the country in 1957.

Special note: All known recordings of Elvis Presley in Canada are available on the album ‘Elvis Presley Canada 1957’ from the Elvis One label released in 2016. An album with 25 tracks including the songs released on the 5 Canadian Elvis singles from 1957, original radio broadcasts, a press conference, live recordings, and more. Together with this release you’ll have the ultimate and complete Elvis 1957 live and interview collection you’ll ever find! 

All Shook Up (With Count-In)

The Midwest Tour:
KSHE Radio Interview (29.03.1957) - WOWO Radio Interview (30.03.1957) - The Story Of Elvis Visit To Detroit (31.03.1957) - Interviews With Hugh Jarrett And Others (31.03.1957) - Interviews With Elvis Fans (31.03.1957) - Live Concert Report (31.03.1957 - Including Parts Of “Heartbreak Hotel”, “Long Tall Sally”, “That’s When Your Heartaches Begin”, “All Shook Up”, “Playing For Keeps”, “Don’t Be Cruel” And “Hound Dog”) - Press Conference Excerpts (31.03.1957)

"Toast Of The Town - The Ed Sullivan Show" - 06.01.1957 Maxine Elliot Theater, New York:
Introduction - Hound Dog - Love Me Tender - Heartbreak Hotel - Don’t Be Cruel - Too Much - Elvis Talks - When My Blue Moon Turns To Gold Again - Ed Sullivan Speaks - (There’ll Be) Peace In The Valley (For Me) - Ed Sullivan Speaks / End Tune

The West Coast Tour:
ABC / KGW - TV interview (02.09.1957)

Mississippi - Alabama Faire & Dairy Show:
WELO Radio Newsreport (17.09.1957) - WELO Radio Interview (27.09.1957) - Interview With Anita Wood (27.09.1957)

Elvis In Hollywood:
"Loving You"-Trailer (German) . Interview Excerpt / "Jailhouse Rock"-Trailer - "Jailhouse Rock"-Promo

Details ‘The Elvis On Tour Recordings’:
 

A double CD from Elvis One. On this album you’ll hear all the Pierre Adidge and Robert Abel interviews for the movie ‘Elvis On Tour’ for the first time complete on one great new album, including two very intimate interviews with Elvis Presley, plus other recordings made for the movie that give us a unique insight into the private world of Elvis Presley. 

We’ve included the songs used for the 1950’s flashbacks in the movie, 2 original radio spots, some one-liners and more! An ultimate and important addition to the movie and all the known live recordings. Including a 12-pages booklet with photos and recording information. 

CD 1: Elvis On Tour (Radio Spot #1) - Mystery Train (Sun Master) - Minutes Before Showtime - The Excitement Of Seeing Elvis Live On Stage - A Special Meeting With Elvis (19.04.1972) - El Paso (30.03.1972 - Rehearsal Excerpt) - Don’t Be Cruel / Ready Teddy (Original Movie Edit) - Interview Excerpt / That’s All Right (Original Movie Edit) - Elvis On Tour (Radio Spot #2) - Elvis Interview (#1 - 31.03.1972 - Los Angeles, California) - Elvis Interview (#2 -07.1972 - Los Angeles, California) - Vernon Presley Interview (Part 1 - Graceland, Memphis, Tennessee | Outside) - Vernon Presley Interview (Part 2 - Graceland, Memphis, Tennessee | Inside)

CD 2: George Klein Interview (WHBQ, Memphis, Tennessee) - Little Rock Promotor Interview (17.04.1972) - Little Rock Promotor Visits Elvis (17.04.1972) - Welcome To Roanoke, Virginia (11.04.1972) - Hotel Rehearsal (14.04.1972 - Greensboro, North Carolina) - Limousine Ride (16.04.1972 - Jacksonville, Florida) - Backstage In Jacksonville (16.04.1972) - Backstage In San Antonio (18.04.1972) - Elvis On Tour Producers Talk And Joke With Elvis After The Show (15.04.1972 - Macon, Georgia) - Elvis, Charlie, Red And Joe Discuss Songs For The Upcoming Tour (30.03.1972 - Los Angeles, California) - Elvis, Charlie, Red And Joe Discuss Songs And Music Clearances (30.03.1972 - Los Angeles, California) - Backstage In Little Rock (#1 - 17.04.1972) - Backstage In Little Rock (#2 - 17.04.1972) - Rehearsal Excerpts (31.03.1972 - Los Angeles, California)

Bonus Tracks:
RIAA Gold Award Presentation (04.08.1972 - At Elvis Dressing Room, Las Vegas, Nevada) - “A Special Song For A Special Girl” (19.04.1972 - Albuquerque, New Mexicog)

Details ‘The Man, The Legend, The Entertainer’:
 

A collection of 31 tracks from the 1950's to the 1970's: including a rare RCA Victor radio spot from 1956 (previously unreleased on CD); some official previously unreleased outtakes; ‘No More’ and ‘Almost Always True’ with announcement from a German 10 inch promo record for ‘Blue Hawaii’; an interview excerpt from April 19, 1960 (for the first time on CD); some rare concert reports from the seventies, a special ‘happy birthday’ from the audience (and band) to Elvis; and more... 

RCA Victor Radio Spot (1956) - I’m Beginning To Forget You (Homerecording / Original Edit From “A Legendary Performer 4”) - Mono Lisa (Homerecording / Original Edit From “A Legendary Performer 4”) - Interview Excerpt (19.04.1960) - No More (From German 10 Inch Promo Record For “Blue Hawaii”) - Almost Always True (From German 10 Inch Promo Record For “Blue Hawaii”) - That’s Someone You Never Forget (Take 2 - 4) - I’m Yours (Work Part 1 - Ending, Take 1 & 2) 1:18- Fun In Acapulco (Radio Spot) - Shelley Fabares About Elvis (American Bandstand 1965) - Golden Coins (Take 1 & 2) - Jocelyn Lane About Elvis (American Bandstand 1965) - City By Night (Backing Track) - Suppose (Stereo Homerecording) - Suppose (Overdub / Added Reverb) - Suppose (Instrumental With Backing Vocals & Choir) - Suppose (Overdub) - Goin’ Home (Take 16 & 17) - Goin’ Home (Take 18 - 20) - Goin’ Home (Take 25 - 28) - Stay Away (Take 7 - 9) - Stay Away (Jerry Reed Overdub - Take 2) - U. S. Male (Take 4) - Charro (Radio Spots) - Elvis At The International Hotel (Radio Spot - 1969) - Elvis Comes To Louisville, KY. (News Report) - Elvis Comes To Fort Worth, TX. (News Report) - Elvis Comes To Mobile, AL. (News Report) - People Wait In Line For Elvis Tickets, Indianapolis, IN. (Vews Report) - Elvis Monologue / La Bamba (One Line / 04.09.1970 - Audience Recording) - Happy Birtday, Elvis (30.12.1976 - Audience Recording)

Loanne Parker Died

Loanne Parker, window of Colonel Parker died in Las Vegas. She was 84.

Loanne first met Colonel Parker in the spring of 1969, when he came into Las Vegas to sign a contract for the opening of the International Hotel. When  Elvis Presley started to tour Loanne was hired as the RCA tour secretary and continued to travel with the shows until the time of Elvis’ death. 

She married The Colonel in 1990, after the death of the Colonel’s first wife.

Songs That Saved My Life

U2's Bono turned 60 years old on Sunday, and celebrated this by presenting the ’60 Songs That Saved My Life”. “The ones I couldn’t have lived without… the ones that got me from there to here, zero to 60… through all the scrapes, all manner of nuisance, from the serious to the silly… and the joy, mostly joy.” 

Elvis Presley’s ‘Heartbreak Hotel’ is listed at No. 15. 

He also wrote 60 separate fan letters to his musical heroes, everyone from the Beatles and the Ramones to Beyoncé and Billie Eilish. “I wanted to thank the artists and everyone who helped make them,” he continued. “They were doing the same for me… I am writing a fan letter to accompany each song to try and explain my fascination.”

Dear Priscilla, Lisa Marie… 

It’s hard to exaggerate the role Elvis played in American life. It’s hard to exaggerate the role Elvis played in my life… and I’m Irish.

I apologise for the irreverence of my attempt at an epic poem with AMERICAN DAVID… it was to be a joyous rant that attempted to explain how Elvis curled the stiff upper lip of WASP America and turned it into a sneer and how by embracing the sex appeal of African American music and dance he liberated the world. 

He did have the face of Michelangelo's David though...please give me that. 
What beggars belief is how a part time trucker in Memphis, Tennessee gets away with wearing eye make up and zoot suits from Lansky’s age 18. I gasp at the risk he must have put himself in. What he really drove was a style and music revolution that wasn’t surpassed till hip hop planted its rhyming flag across continents. 

I choose this song because I have had my heart broken by distance. And I have spent many nights in this hotel that Darden and Axton constructed for Elvis to occupy.

Yours in debt, 

Bono

(Source: Elvis Shop London / ElvisMattes / Memphis Mansion / Lady Such Music / Bono - U2)