Wednesday, September 30, 2020

September 30 - The Essential Works: 1954-1962

Diggers Factory announced the release of 'Elvis Presley: The Essential Works: 1954-1962' double LP  in their 'Masters of Rock' series with December 4rd 2020 as the release date. This double album comes on 140 Gr. vinyl and is limited to 700 copies. 

Side A: That's All Right / Mystery Train / Heartbreak Hotel / Blue Suede Shoes / Tutti Frutti / My Baby Left Me / Hound Dog.

Side B: Don't Be Cruel / Love Me Tender / So Glad You're Mine / All Shook Up / (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear / Jailhouse Rock / Baby I Don't Care / Doncha Think It Is Me.

Side C: King Creole / Trouble / Stuck On You / Fever / Such A Night / It's Now Or Never / Are You Lonesome Tonight?

Side D: Mess Of Blues / Tonight Is So Right For Love / Surrender / His Latest Flame / Little Sister / Can't Help Falling In Love / Night Rider / Return To Sender.

(Source: Diggers Factory)

Tuesday, September 29, 2020

September 29 - Elvis Argentina 1963 - 1969

Singer-songwriter Mac Davis has passed away, a day after reports of critical illness following heart surgery in Nashville. He was 78. 

In the late sixties, Davis's songwriting talent paid off: he wrote several hits for Elvis Presley, including 'In the Ghetto,' 'Memories,' and 'Don't Cry Daddy.' 

With Billy Strange he wrote 'Clean Up Your Own Backyard' and 'Charro'. His 1968 breakout smash for Presley, 'A Little Less Conversation,' also co-written with Billy Strange, became popular again after appearing in the 2001 film Ocean's 11 and in a remix by Dutch DJ Junkie XL (aka "JXL").

Priscilla Presley posted:

Friends of Mac Davis, including myself, are overwhelmed with grief on his passing yesterday. This was so unexpected and a shock to all of us. May you Rest In Peace, Mac. Thank you for your beautiful songs which will keep your spirit in our hearts, my dear friend. šŸ˜¢

elvis@argentina 1963-1969

The book 'elvis@argentina 1963-1969' by Carlos R. Ares, originally announced last year, has a release date. The book should be out mid-november. The book is available for pre-order.  

From the press release

The book shows the impact of Elvis in Argentina between 1963 and 1969, his complete discography and filmography, press clippings, record releases and his film reviews.

In addition, John Kennedy’s assassination aftermath, Argentinean Rock in the 60s, magazines, promotional material, RCA label copies, and everything related to the aforementioned period in Argentina.

The book includes bonus repro of the ultra-rare 1963 advertisement from March 1963 promoting the 'Rubias, Morenas Y Pelirrojas' (It Happened At The World’s Fair) album.

The first 50 pre-orders are numbered and signed copies. For pre-order contact the author at: Elvis.Shop@gmail.com or through Facebook at "elvis.shop.argentina".


(Source: Carlos R. Ares / A Taste Of Country)

Monday, September 28, 2020

September 28 - Mac Davis Critically Ill

Mac Davis
, a music and television mainstay in the 1970s and beyond, is critically ill after heart surgery in Nashville. A note from his manager asks for prayers for the 78-year-old singer and hitmaker for Elvis Presley and more.

After writing songs such as "In the Ghetto" and "A Little Less Conversation" for Presley, Davis — born Morris Mac Davis in Lubbock, Texas — went on to enjoy a country crossover career with songs including "Baby Don't Get Hooked on Me" and "Stop and Smell the Roses." Much of his success on country radio came after he won the ACM Entertainer of the Year award in 1975. Billboard credits him with six Top 10 singles on the Hot Country Songs chart ("Hooked on Music" from 1981 charted the highest, at No. 2), but he had four Top 10 hits on the all-genre Hot 100 chart.

As impressive is Davis' television and film catalog. He starred in various TV specials and had his own show, The Mac Davis Show, from 1974 to 1976. He continued to pick up roles throughout the 1980s, '90s and early 2000s, appearing on shows such as King of the Hill, That '70s Show and Rodney, where he played star Rodney Carrington's father-in-law.

(Source: A Taste of Country / FECC)

Sunday, September 27, 2020

September 27 - A Little Less Commercial

Toyota featured the Elvis vs. JXL remix of 'A Little Less Conversation' in the commercial for their Toyota Venza, Toyota Highlander Hybrid and Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. The slogan, “Let's Go Places”. The commercial was created by Saatchi & Saatchi Los Angeles (Media Agency).

"As a group of Toyota owners drive their Toyota Hybrids down an open highway, Toyota says today is the perfect day to get a powerful hybrid vehicle of your own".

(Source: FECC / iSpot)


Saturday, September 26, 2020

September 26 - Charts September -Week 4

The weekly global Elvis Presley chart update. Little movement this week. 

Billboard Charts:

  • Billboard Album Top 200 chart: 'The Essential Elvis Presley' dropped from #147 to #148.
  • Billboard To Christian Album chart: 'Elvis: Ultimate Gospel' dropped from #47 to #48.
  • Billboard Top Rock Album chart: 'The Essential Elvis Presley' climbed from #22 to #18.
  • Billboard Top Country Album chart: 'The Essential Elvis Presley' droppen from #17 to #19.

Official UK charts

  • Official Album chart: 'The 50 Greatest Hits' dropped from #60 to #62.
  • Official Streaming Album chart: 'The 50 Greatest Hits' dropped from #42 to #49.

(Source: Official Chart Company) 

Friday, September 25, 2020

September 25 - Greatest Albums of All Time

Rolling Stone Magazine updated their '500 Greatest Albums of All Time'. This list was originally published in 2003, with a slight update in 2012. But no list is definitive , tastes change, new genres emerge and the history of music keeps being rewritten. The magazine created a new greatest albums list from scratch. 

Elvis Presley is listed three times:

  • 332. Elvis Presley (1956)
  • 322. From Elvis In Memphis (1969)
  • 78. The Sun Sessions (1976)

Read the full Top 500 at the >>> Rolling Stone Magazine site.

The commends:

332 - Elvis Presley, 'Elvis Presley' (RCA, 1956)

In November 1955, RCA Records bought Elvis Presley’s contract, singles, and unreleased master tapes from Sun Records for $35,000. 

His first full-length album came out four months later, with tracks drawn from both the Sun sessions and from further recording at RCA’s studios in New York and Nashville. 

“There wasn’t any pressure,” guitarist Scotty Moore said. “They were just bigger studios with different equipment.” On tracks such as “Blue Suede Shoes,” that meant revved-up country music with the sexiest voice anyone had ever heard.

323 - Elvis Presley, 'From Elvis in Memphis' (RCA, 1969)

“I had to leave town for a little while,” Elvis Presley sings on the first track. Along with his 1968 TV special, this record announced he was back. 

With help from a crack crew of Memphis musicians, Presley masterfully tackles quality material from country (“I’m Movin’ On”), gospel (“Long Black Limousine”), soul (“Only the Strong Survive”), and pop (“Any Day Now”), as well as message songs (“In the Ghetto”). 

The same sessions also yielded one of Presley’s greatest singles, the towering pop-soul masterpiece “Suspicious Minds.”

78 - Elvis Presley, 'The Sun Sessions' (RCA, 1976)

On July 5th, 1954, at Sun Studios in Memphis, Elvis Presley, guitarist Scotty Moore, and bassist Bill Black were horsing around with “That’s All Right,” a tune by bluesman Arthur Crudup, when producer Sam Phillips stopped them and asked, “What are you doing?” “We don’t know,” they said. Phillips told them to “back up and do it again.” 

Bridging black and white, country and blues, Presley’s sound was playful and revolutionary, charged by a spontaneity and freedom that changed the world. 

He released four more singles on Sun - including deļ¬nitive reinventions of Wynonie Harris’ “Good Rockin’ Tonight” and Junior Parker’s “Mystery Train” - before moving on to immortality at RCA. They’re all here on a collection that serves as well as anything out there as a definitive chronicle of the birth of rock & roll.

Elvis Love Songs

The Delta (Laserlight) budget label re-issued of the "Elvis Love Songs" compilation once more on vinyl. 

(Source: Rolling Stone Magazine / Amazon)

Thursday, September 24, 2020

September 24 - That's The Way it Is - Photo Folio

Erik Lorentzen announced the release of 'That's The Way it Is - Photo Folio' in the 'Summer Festival' series. 

This deluxe coffee-table soft-cover book contains 250 color images in pristine quality according to the press release. The book is due October 2020.

Feelin' Fast Vibrations

The new label Cocky Rooster Company presents their first release. Everyone knows where this is coming from, but we thought this should be represented in a good way. We don't know the person who worked on it like crazy, but he deserves a big hand for it. Listen to the fantastic sounding matrix recording from the midnight show on August 21, 1974 on a shiny silver pressed CD for your collection. 

Tracks: (01) Also Sprach Zarathustra* (02) See See Rider** (03) I Got A Woman/Amen** (04) Love Me** (05) If You Love Me, Let Me Know** (06) It's Midnight** (07) Big Boss Man** (08) Fever** (09) Love Me Tender** (10) All Shook Up** (11) Dialogue** (12) Stop The World [And Let Me Off] (one-liner)** (13) I'm Leavin'** (14) Softly As I Leave You** (15) Hound Dog** (16) You Gave Me A Mountain** (17) Polk Salad Annie** (18) Band Introductions pt.1** (19) Take These Chains From My Heart (one-liner)** (20) Band Introductions pt.2** (21) If You Talk In Your Sleep** (22) Why Me Lord** (23) Dialogue** (24)Teddy Bear/ Don't Be Cruel** (25) Hawaiian Wedding Song** (26) The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face** (27) Let Me Be There (with reprise)**/* (28) Can't Help Falling In Love* (29) Closing Vamp*

* Soundboard ** Audience/ Soundboard Mix (Matrix)
track 1 rec. on January 27, 1974 (MS) tracks 2-29 recorded on August 21, 1974 (MS)

Note: This mix of the soundboard and audience recording of this concert was created by Elvisasellers and shared on the FECC forum.

Analog War Nicht Besser

Elvis Presley is featured on the cover of the German Fine Art Printer magazine with inside the article 'Analog War Nicht Besser' (analog was not better) about the Munich photographer who had Elvis in front of the camera in 1956 and still used uses Canon's large format printer today.

(Source: Elvis Files / Elvis Club Berlin)

Wednesday, September 23, 2020

September 23 - In The Valley of the Sun

Joseph Tunzi's book 'In The Valley of the Sun', covering Elvis Presley's September 9, 1970 'one-night-stand' in front of 15,000 fans at the veterans Memorial Coliseum, Phoenix, Arizona, has been released. 

The book comes with a bonus CD featuring the last interview with Chips Moman and a pocket calendar. 

The book is available at the >>> JAT Publishing website.

W. S. Holland Died

Drummer W. S. "Fluke" Holland died. He was 85. He played drums on the 1955 Sun Records recording of "Blue Suede Shoes" and performed on the "Million Dollar Quartet" session that featured Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Perkins and Cash. He joined Johnny Cash' band in 1960 and would spend the next 37 years at Cash’s side. 

(Source: JAT Publishing / Henrik Knudsen / Commercial Appeal)




Tuesday, September 22, 2020

September 22 - Christmas for Everybody on Stereo Tapes

The Good Music label announced the release of 'Elvis: Hist First Christmas Album in Stereo'. 

From the press release:

Using new, state of the art audio technology, the original monaural tracks contained on Presley’s 1957 holiday album have been skillfully transformed into brilliant, lifelike stereo, using the DES (Digitally Extracted Stereo) method. The sound is stunning! You can hear Elvis better and there is richer detail in the music!

With total sales of over 20 million copies worldwide, Elvis’s holiday offering remains the best-selling Christmas album of all time. This new CD brings this wonderful classic to life as never before! There are also 8 bonus tracks converted from mono to stereo, for a total of 20 songs that never sounded better!

Fascinating liner notes reveal the story behind the big hit 'Blue Christmas,' (how it was written on a commuter train, and how Presley deliberately tried to louse up the song... but it was a hit anyway!). Then there’s the controversy caused when composer Irving Berlin tried to block radio stations from playing Elvis’s version of 'White Christmas.' Also read about songs that were commissioned by Elvis for this release, and learn about the tunes that Presley arranged himself. Includes rare color photos.

Tracks: Santa Claus Is Back In Town - White Christmas - Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane) - I'll Be Home For Christmas - Blue Christmas - Santa Bring My Baby Back (To Me) - Oh Little Town Of Bethlehem - Silent Night - (There'll Be) Peace In The Valley (For Me) - I Believe - Take My Hand, Precious Lord - It Is No Secret (What God Can Do).

Bonus Songs: Love Me - Lonesome Cowboy - I Need You So - Loving You - Playing For Keeps - True Love - My Wish Came True - Old Shep.

The Comprehensive USA Artwork Guide to Elvis Presley Tapes

Josepth Tunzi's JAT Publishing announced the release of the book 'The Comprehensive USA Artwork Guide to Elvis Presley Tapes", the perfect companion to the best seller 'The Definitive Vinyl Artwork of Elvis Presley 1956-1977' according to the website. The book is due in mid 2021. 

October 2020 FTD Releases

The Follow That Dream, collectors label announced the release of the 4-CD set ‘Something for Everybody / Wild in the Country Sessions’ and the 2-LP ‘Easy Come, Easy Go’ as the label’s October 2020 release. 

From the press release

FTD is pleased to announce the release of 'The Something For Everybody Sessions' including 'The Wild In The Country sessions'. It will include remixed and remastered unreleased studio outtakes. This 8 inch deluxe 4-CD package will also feature a 28-page booklet with an insightful essay, record and movie data, memorabilia and rare photos. Released late October.

All the session takes from Elvis' RCA November 7 / 8, 1960 and March 12 / 13, 1961 sessions. The vast majority of these session have already been released but it will include several "new" false start outtakes from 'Put the Blame On Me',  'Wild In the Country' and 'I Slipped, I Stumbled, I Fell'.

Compared the previous FTD releases 'Something for Everybody' and 'Wild in the Country' the unreleased takes on this set are:

It’s a sin (take 3)
I want you with me (rehearsal)
There’s always me (take 3)
Put the blame on me (takes 3, 4)
Lonely man (takes 2, 3, 5, 9, 10)
In my way (takes 3, 7)
Wild in the country (takes 3 to 9, 15, 17, 18)
I slipped, I stumbled, I fell (takes 4, 5, 6, 10, 12) 
I slipped, I stumbled, I fell - lower key version (take 17)

The duet 'Husky Dusky Day' which was featured in the movie on the classic album release, is excluded from this release. 

Together with these two items the second print of the label's 'The Making of Elvis That's The Way It Is' will be shipped to dealers. 

Additional on the 'Easy Come, Easy G' design: ''FTD Vinyl is pleased to announce the first official RCA Victor Easy Come, Easy Go 2-LP edition. As there was no official publicity portrait session for the movie, the original EP featured a cover shot from Girl Happy. Around the same time as the ECEG EP release, See The USA The Elvis Way EP (based on the ECEG EP art design) was released exclusively in Australia and New Zealand. For this 2-LP limited edition, we have mirrored this rare design that included a publicity portrait from Spinout. Elvis recorded the songs on september 28 and 29, 1966.''

Disc 1 - The Something For Everybody Sessions:

I Feel So Bad (single A-Side) - (Chuck Willis)

Something For Everybody - The Album - Side 1 The Ballad Side:

There’s Always Me - Give Me The Right - It’s A Sin - Sentimental Me - Starting Today - Gently

Something For Everybody - The Album - Side 2 - The Rhythm Side:

I’m Comin. Home - In Your Arms - Put The Blame On Me - Judy - I Want You With Me - I Slipped, I Stumbled, I Fell

Wild In The Country - The Masters (December 1960 Stereo Mixes):

Lonely Man (Single B-Side) - Wild In The Country (Single B-Side) - In My Way - Forget Me Never - I Slipped, I Stumbled, I Fell

The March 1961 Sessions:

I’m Comin’ Home (Take 1 - 2) - I’m Comin’ Home (Take 3) - I’m Comin’ Home (Take 4) - I’m Comin’ Home (Take 5) - I’m Comin’ Home (Take 6 - 7M) - Gently (Take 1 - 2) - Gently (Take 3) - Gently (Take 4) - Gently (Take 5/M) - In Your Arms (Take 1) - In Your Arms (Take 2/M) - Give Me The Right (Take 1) - Give Me The Right (Take 2) - Give Me The Right (Take 3 - 4/M)

CD 2  -  The March 1961 Sessions (Continued):

I Feel So Bad (Take 1) - I Feel So Bad (Take 2/M) - It’s A Sin (Take 1 - 2) - It’s A Sin (Take 3 - 4/M) - I Want You With Me (Rehearsal) - I Want You With Me (Take 1) - I Want You With Me (Take 2/M) - There’s Always Me (Take 1) - There’s Always Me (Take 2) - There’s Always Me (Take 3 - 4) - There’s Always Me (Take 5 - 9) - There’s Always Me (Take 10/M) - Starting Today (Take 1) - Starting Today (Take 2) - Starting Today (Take 3/M) - Sentimental Me (Take 1) - Sentimental Me (Take 2/M) - Judy (Take 1) - Judy (Take 2 - 3) - Judy (Take 4) - Judy (Take 5 - 7) - Judy (Take 8/M) - Put The Blame On Me (Take 1 - 2) - Put The Blame On Me (Take 3 - 4) - Put The Blame On Me (Take 5/M)

CD 3  -  The Wild In The Country Sessions:

Lonely Man (Take 1) - Lonely Man (Take 2 - 3) - Lonely Man (Take 4) - Lonely Man (Take 5 - 8) - Lonely Man (Take 9) - Lonely Man (Take 10 - 12) - Lonely Man (Take 13/M) - Lonely Man (solo, Take 1) - Lonely Man (Solo, Take 2 - 3) - Lonely Man (Solo, Take 4/M) - In My Way (Take 1) - In My Way (Take 2) - In My Way (Take 3 - 7) - In My Way (Take 8/M)

CD 4  -  The Wild In The Country Sessions (Continued):

Wild In The Country (Take 1) - Wild In The Country (Take 2 - 8) - Wild In The Country (Take 9 - 11) - Wild In The Country (Take 12 - 13) - Wild In The Country (Take 14) - Wild In The Country (Take 15 - 16) - Wild In The Country (Take 17 - 18) - Wild In The Country (Take 19/M) - Forget Me Never (Take 1) - Forget Me Never (Take 2) - Forget Me Never (Take 3/M) - I Slipped, I Stumbled, I Fell (Take 1 - 3) - I Slipped, I Stumbled, I Fell (Take 4 - 6) - I Slipped, I Stumbled, I Fell (Take 7 - 9) - I Slipped, I Stumbled, I Fell (Take 10) - I Slipped, I Stumbled, I Fell (Take 11) - I Slipped, I Stumbled, I Fell (Take 12 - 13/M) - I Slipped, I Stumbled, I Fell (Lower Key, Take 14 - 16) - I Slipped, I Stumbled, I Fell (lower key, Take 17 - 18/M)

Tracks Easy Come Easy Go: 

Side A: Easy Come, Easy Go - The Love Machine - I’ll Take Love - You Gotta Stop - Sing You Children - Yoga Is As Yoga Does - She’s A Machine

Side B - Special Bonus Songs: Come What May - Fools Fall In Love

Outtakes: The Love Machine (Take 1 - 3) - She’s A Machine (Take 5 - 7) - You Gotta Stop (Instrumental Take 5)

Side C - Outtakes: Easy Come, Easy Go (Take 10) - I’ll Take Love (Take 1, 2 A) - Leave My Woman Alone (Instrumental Take 5) - The Love Machine (Take 4, 5, 11) - Sing You Children (Take 1) - She’s A Machine (Take 10)

Side D - Outtakes: The Love Machine (Take 13 - 14) - I’ll Take Love (Take 2B) - She’s A Machine (Take 13 – Movie Master) - Yoga Is As Yoga Does (Take 5 - 6) - Sing You Children (Take 18 - 19)

(Source: Good Music / JAT Publishing / Facebook / FECC / Elvis Club Berlin)

Monday, September 21, 2020

September 21 - A California Treat from Leiber and Stoller

Several new (import) releases were announced: 'A Vegas Treat' from the Elvis Concert Fan Label, 'California Holiday' and 'Elvis Sings Leiber and Stoller' from the Elvis One label. All due October 1, 2020.

From the press release:

The Elvis Concert Fan label presents 'A Vegas Treat'. On this album you’ll find many tracks recorded live in Las Vegas from 1970 to 1975, including rare soundboard recordings and a stage rehearsal. 

An alternate February 1972 live version from 'Never Been To Spain' not used by RCA, 4 alternate live versions from February 1970 also not used by RCA, 6 live versions from March 19, 1975, a stage rehearsal from 1972, and a part of the February 10, 1973 dinner show. 

As a special bonus two authentic radio spots from 1969 and 1971 are included + 2 rare backstage recordings. A total of 31 great tracks! This album is truly A Vegas Treat. Enjoy!

Only a part of the February 10, 1973 dinner show was recorded, using a bass-heavy mix, possibly as a guide for future Fender bass players if Jerry Scheff left the Elvis Presley show. He did exactly that two weeks later. These recordings were first released on “Aloha Jerry” and “Echoes Of Aloha” from Audionics but now presented for the first time in the right order. 

Never Been To Spain (17.02.1972 DS) - Don’t Cry Daddy (19.02.1970 DS) - Let It Be Me (19.02.1970 DS) - I Can’t Stop Loving You (19.02.1970 DS) - Walk A Mile In My Shoes (19.02.1970 DS) - Big Boss Man (19.03.1975 MS) - I’ll Remember You (19.03.1975 MS) - Hound Dog (19.03.1975 MS) - My Boy (19.03.1975 MS) - An American Trilogy (19.03.1975 MS) - If You Love Me (Let Me Know) (19.03.1975 MS) - You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me (02.08.1972 Stage Rehearsal

10.02.1973 DS: You Gave Me A Mountain (Not Complete) - Fever - Love Me - Blue Suede Shoes - Heartbreak Hotel - Johnny B. Goode - Hound Dog - What Now My Love - Suspicious Minds - Band Introductions / Introduction Of Jack Lord - I’ll Remember You - I Can’t Stop Loving You - An American Trilogy (Not Complete) - Can’t Help Falling In Love - Closing Vamp

Elvis At The International Hotel: Radio Spot 1969 - Radio Spot Summer Festival 1971

Elvis Suite At The Hiiton: Meeting Japanese Fans ??.08.1973 (Exact Date Unknown) - Meeting Fans (30.01.1974)


California Holiday (The Bootleg Series)

All officially unreleased outtakes of the 'Spinout' soundtrack collected on one CD plus songwriter demos and all 4 original radio spots for the movie! All tracks remastered for the best sound quality.

Including a 12-pages booklet with photos and recording information. The sketches used for the artwork of this album are original continuity sketches from the MGM production ‘Spinout’. 

Please note that on releases like the boxset ‘Stop, Look and Listen - The Ultimate Spinout Recording Sessions’ a lot of material is missing like the complete take 7 of ‘Stop, Look And Listen’, take 6 of ‘Never Say Yes’, a 2nd screaming girls version of ‘Down In The Alley’, studio chat and radio spots. If you have the FTD version of the album ‘Spinout’ then this CD from Elvis One is the ultimate addition to your collection.   

Track 1, 13, 14 and 15 previously unreleased on CD. Taken from the original 33 1/3 RPM 10 inch LP with 4 Radio Commercials for the movie ‘Spinout’. Radio Spot Announcements were used to promote new and upcoming movies. They were not released by RCA Victor but by the movie company. These radio spot announcements were not archived by radio stations and were typically destroyed.

Spinout Radio (Spot #1) - Spinout (Take 3 & 4) - Stop, Look And Listen (Take 4, 5 & 7) - Never Say Yes (Take 3 & 6) - Am I Ready (Take 2) - Am I Ready (Take 5, 6 & Count-In Master Take 7) - All That I Am (Take 3 & 6) - Smorgasbord (Take 2, 3, 4, 6 & Count-In Master Take 7) - Adam And Evil (Take 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6) - Adam And Evil (Take 7, 8, 9, 10 & 11) - Adam And Evil (Take 12, 13, 15, 17, 18, 19 & Count-In Master Take 20) - I’ll Be Back (Movie Version, Drum Intro & Overdubs) - Spinout Radio (Spot #2) - Spinout Radio (Spot #3) - Spinout Radio (Spot #4) - Down In The Alley (Take 5 & 8) - Down In The Alley (Take 7) - Down In The Alley (Screaming Girls Version, Take 1) - Down In The Alley (Screaming Girls Version, Take 2) - I’ll Remember You (Take 1) - I’ll Remember You (Take 3) - I’ll Remember You (Track, Guide Vocals By Red West) - Messed Up World (Demo)  - Classy Chassy (Demo) - You Can’t Win ‘Em All (Demo)

All tracks previously unreleased by Elvis’s record company.

Elvis Sings Leiber and Stoller (The original album series)

Originally released in 1980, 'Elvis Presley Sings Leiber and Stoller', a classic with all songs written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller!

20 Great tracks from the original album; the first 16 tracks in mono as on the original album, the other 4 tracks are alternate versions from which 3 are officially unreleased plus there are 11 bonus tracks on this CD. These include the CD bonus track from 1991 ('You're The Boss') in an alternate version, 2 official unreleased alternate versions from 'Just Tell Her Jim Said Hello' and tracks from the movie 'Loving You' and 'Jailhouse Rock'. A very nice compilation presented in great sound. Including a booklet with the original album artwork, photos and recording information. 

Instead of the 1991 CD release (out of print for a very long time) with a colorized photo the original stunning album cover photo is used for this CD - now in great quality. A limited edition of 500 copies only.

Tracks: Love Me - Loving You - Hot Dog - I Want To Be Free - Jailhouse Rock - Treat Me Nice - (You’re So Square) Baby I Don’t Care - Santa Claus Is Back In Town - Don’t - Trouble - King Creole - Steadfast Loyal And True - Dirty, Dirty Feeling - Just Tell Her Jim Said Hello - Girls! Girls! Girls! - Little Egypt (Composite Movie Version) - Fools Fall In Love (Rehearsal + Take 5) -  Bossa Nova Baby (Take 9) - Saved (Take 6)

Bonus Songs: You’re The Boss (Duet With Ann-Margret - Take 10) - Loving You (Main Version 1, Master Take 3) - Loving You (Main Version 2, Fast Movie Version, Take 8 / Stereo) - Loving You (Farm Version 3, Master Take 12) - Loving You (Farm Version 2, Master Take 14) - Loving You (Main Version 2, Fast Movie Version, Master Take 21) - Jailhouse Rock (Record Version, Composite Master / Binaural) - Treat Me Nice (Undubbed Movie Version, Composite Master / Binaural) - I Want To Be Free (Record Version / Binaural) - Just Tell Her Jim Said Hello (Tryout) - Just Tell Her Jim Said Hello (Take 3).

King Creole

Paramount Home Entertainment released the classic 'King Creole' on Blu-ray in their 'Premium Collection'. This release ia an HMV Exclusive. 

(Source: FECC / HMV)

Sunday, September 20, 2020

September 20 - Elvis I Danmark

Gads Forlag announced the release of the 300-page hardback book 'Elvis I Danmark' ('Elvis In Denmark)by Bertel Nygaard with November 6th as the release date. 

Description: Elvis is eternally current as one of the great popular cultural phenomena of world history that infuriated and fascinated. 

He was and is at the same time an expression of the Americanization that the entire Western world experienced after World War II. 

In this book, historian and Elvis expert Bertel Nygaard tells how the dangerous Elvis Presley changed Denmark forever, even though he never set foot in the country, and how he remains an indispensable cultural icon.

No More Elvis Beer

BrewDog has lost a legal battle with the estate of Elvis Presley over the name of one of a best-selling beer.

The beer maker launched its “Brewdog Elvis Juice” IPA in 2015 and it now has annual sales of £6.4 million in the UK alone.

Bosses were contacted by lawyers from the late singer’s estate who demanded they change the name.

The craft brewing company, based in Ellon, had won the right to register the brand as a trademark in the UK in 2018. However, they have been denied exclusive rights to the name in Europe – potentially threatening sales on the continent.

Although Elvis Presley died in 1977, his name and likeness have been trademarked by Elvis Presley Enterprises (EPE), which earns millions of dollars every year.

EPE objected after BrewDog applied to register the name as a trademark for beers to be sold in European countries.

The Elvis estate said the application overlapped with its registered trademark “Elvis” and people could mistakenly believe that the beer was endorsed by them. Now the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) has found in favour of the Elvis estate.

Tinseltown Troubadour Released

The Lauderdale Records, ‘Tinseltown Troubadour Vol. 1’ has been released. 

From the press release: this new 30-plus tracks release offers a wild ‘n’ crazy joyride through Elvis’ movie years, in a fresh and exciting new way with movie versions, studio outtakes and alternative mixes, as well as rare promo spots and memorable movie dialogue. Everything has been freshly edited and mixed in glorious mono, and you’ll notice right away that these songs sound way groovier this way. 

There are surprises a’ plenty on these releases, including a cleverly edited version of ‘Angel’ that begins solo, but then slowly turns into a full band version, as well as a truly gorgeous ‘As Long As I Have You’. And remember, all the elements used are original. Packaged in beautiful digipacks with rare color pix they promise two  smooth-groovin’, fast-movin’, hip-shakin’, shagadelic collections of Elvis Movie Magic that you just gotta have! 

“That ain’t cheap tactics, honey. It’s just the beast in me”.

(Source: Memphis Mansion / Gads Forlag / Press and Journal)

Saturday, September 19, 2020

September 19 - Charts September 2020 - Week 3

The weekly global Elvis Presley chart updates. Elvis climbed on all charts except the Billboard Top Christian Album chart.  

U.S. Billboard charts:

  • Billboard Album Top 200 chart: 'The Essential Elvis Presley' climbed from #177 to #147. 
  • Billboard Catalog Album chart: 'The Essential Elvis Presley' re-entry #43. 
  • Billboard Top Rock Album chart: 'The Essential Elvis Presley' climbed from #33 to #22. 
  • Billboard Top Country Album chart: 'The Essential Elvis Presley' climbed from #20 to #17. 
  • Billboard Top Christian Album chart: 'Elvis: Ultimate Gospel' dropped from #47 to #48.

Official U.K. Charts:

  • Official Album chart: 'The 50 Greatest Hits' climbed from #66 to #60. 
  • Official Streaming Album chart: 'The 50 Greatest Hits' climbed from #46 to #42. 
  • Official Music DVD chart: 'Elvis The Searcher' climbed from #37 to #26. 
(Source: UK Mix / Official Chart Company)

Friday, September 18, 2020

September 18 - InterPreview 'Patch It Up'

A nice way to start the weekend. The latest Elvis News magazine from the Danish Elvis News / Memphis mansion fan club is out. Inside an interview I did with Nigel Patterson on my Day to Day 2019 book. Thanks for posting it Sabine Vindahl Andersen.

Patch It Up

Sony Legacy released another track from the upcoming 'From Elvis in Nashville' 4-CD and 2-LP set. Listen to take 9 of 'Patch it Up'. 

(Source: FECC / Memphis Mansion)


  

Thursday, September 17, 2020

September 17 - For The Good Times

The Sound City (Real to Reel) import-label announced the release of 'For The Good Times' featuring the 'On Tour' rehearsal at the Memorial Auditorium on April 5, 1972 in stereo. 

Tracks: See See Rider - Johnny B. Good - Please Release Me - Burning Love - Polk Salad Annie - It's Over - You Gave Me A Mountain - I Can't Stop Loving You - Proud Mary - Never Been To Spain - An American Trilogy - You Better Run - The Impossible Dream - For The Good Times (Live) - See See Rider (instrumental). 

(Source: Elvis Telegraph / Elvis Club Berlin)

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

September 16 - Summer Festival

The Miracle Surface label announced the release of the LP ' Summer Festival' containing the January 27, 1971 show as recorded in Las Vegas. This show was previously released as 'All Things Are Possible' on the DAE import-label. 

Side A: 2001 Theme - That's All Right - You Don't Have To Say You Love Me - Love Me Tender - There Goes My Everything - Sweet Caroline - You've Lost That Loving Feeling - Polk Salad Annie - Only Believe - How Great Thou Art

Side B: Band Introductions - Johnny B Goode - The Wonder Of You - Something - Make The World Go Away - Love Me - One Night - Blue Suede Shoes - Hound Dog - How Great Thou Art.

(Source: Elvis Telegraph)



Monday, September 14, 2020

September 14 - Songwriter Al Kasha Died

Oscar winning composer and songwriter Al Kasha died. He was 83. He co-wrote Elvis Presley's 'Your Time Hasn’t Come Yet, Baby' with Joel Hirschhorn for the 1968 'Speedway' soundtrack album. 

House Sold

Elvis and Priscilla Presley's Monovale Drive home was sold for US$ 20 million. 

Elvis purchased the home at 144 Monovale Drive in December 1970, three years before he and his wife, Priscilla, divorced. Priscilla lived at the home with daughter Lisa-Marie following her and Elvis' separation in February 1972 until the home sold in July 1975. 

(Source: Twitter / A Digest / Elvis Information Network)






Sunday, September 13, 2020

September 13 - Smooth Chicago Nights

The MxF import label announced the release of the 'Special Deluxe Combo 2-LP and CD set 'Smooth Chicago Nights' in their Special Products series with the end of September as the release-date. 

The original press release (mind the English): To be released soon (End of September) from the "MxF" label for the first time in vinyl, with both of the October 14th and 15th 1976 shows and the ambiance recording of the complete second Chicago show included as a bonus. 

After shedding some extra weight the man as suggested by the title presents himself in the best way possible considering the past year. Surprising even the journalist to be able to fit again in his 1975 jumpsuit. The Chicago nights are the first stop of the October tour and for the first time in the year, Elvis presents himself at the top of the game. He delivered two solid shows working hard on the stage that he threw up for exhaustion after it.

At the same time, we are glad to include as a bonus CD an unreleased Ambiance Recording of the complete concert of the second day in Chicago. The sound is decent: if you want to live the atmosphere of an Elvis concert in 2020 this is the right tape. We can guarantee that Elvis was greeted with incredible enthusiasm; the popularity in the live scene at the end of 1976 is still at its maximum level.

For The first show Elvis is wearing the Inca Gold Leaf suit looking a lot slimmer. He gave a strong concert but problems with the sound in the stadium was a big let down and Elvis could hardly hear anything during the first half of the show. The second show of the tour was in the same stadium and was strong as the day before from Elvis with some variation in the songs list.

The shows are very enjoyable with Elvis's performance very easily delivering soft and sensitive ballad like “And I love You So” and You Gave Me A Mountain or great rock blues songs like “Steamrollers Blues” and Polk Salad Annie at the end of the second show also a real surprise with the attempt to the classic Blue Christmas.

About the bonus CD, the sound is good for an ambient recording, a dynamic tape with a good definition of the background music and for sure you can live the atmosphere of an Elvis concert in the seventies. We hope you can enjoy the final result. 

The set comes in four variations:

  • A black vinyl 2-LP housed in a gatefold sleeve, limited to 200 copies.
  • A white vinyl 2-LP housed in a gatefold sleeve, limited to 100 copies.  
  • A blue vinyl 2-LP housed in a gatefold sleeve limited to 100 copies.  

All the three versions come with a bonus CD and an exclusive LP-sized art card, available in three variations.

The label - identifying itself as the VV import label in the press release - also announced the release of a Limited Boxed Edition of 14 copies - including a test pressing  of the album. 

LP 1 Soundboard Recording  - October 14th, 1976  8.30 PM

LP 1  - 14.10.1976  8.30pm (SB)

Side A: See See Rider - I Got A Woman / Amen - Love Me - If You Love Me - You Gave Me A Mountain - Jailhouse Rock - All Shook Up - Teddy Bear / Don’t Be Cruel - And I Love You So

Side B: Fever - Polk Salad Annie - What’d I Say / Johnny B. Good - Love Letters - School Day - Hurt - Love Me Tender - Hound Dog - Funny How Time Slips Away - Mystery Rain / Tiger Man - Can’t Help Falling in Love                                     

LP 2 - 15.10.1976 8.30pm (SB)

Side C: Amen / I Got A Woman - Love Me - If You Love Me - You Gave Me a Mountain - Help Me - Jailhouse Rock - All Shook Up - Teddy Bear / Don’t Be Cruel - And I Love You So

Side D: Steamroller Blues - Intros / Early Morning Rain - What’d I Say / Johnny  B. Good - Drums Solo - Bass Solo - Piano Solo - Electric Piano Solo - Love Letters - Intros / School Day - Hurt - It’s Now Or Never - Blue Christmas - Can’t Help Falling In Love

CD - 15.10.1976 8.30pm (AR):

Opening / See See Rider - I Got A Woman / Amen - Love Me - If You Love Me - You Gave Me A Mountain - Help Me - Jailhouse Rock - All Shook Up - Teddy Bear / Don’t Be Cruel - And I Love You So - Steamroller Blues - Intros / Early Morning Rain - Johnny B. Goode / What’d I Say - Drum Solo - Bass Solo - Piano Solo - Electric Piano - Love Letters - School Day - Hurt (Part) - Hound Dog - It’s Now Or Never - Blue Christmas - Can't Help Falling In Love - Closing Vamp

(Source: FECC)

Saturday, September 12, 2020

September 12 - Charts September 2020 - Week 2

The weekly global Elvis Presley chart updates. Elvis's albums dropped in the U.S. and U.K. with the exception of the Billboard Country Album chart.

U.S. Billboard charts:

  • Billboard Album Top 200 chart: 'The Essential Elvis Presley' dropped from #174 to #177. 
  • Billboard Top Christian Album chart: 'Elvis: Ultimate Gospel' dropped from #41 to #47.
  • Billboard Top Rock Album chart: 'The Essential Elvis Presley' dropped from #24 to #33.
  • Billboard Top Country Album chart: 'The Essential Elvis Presley' climbed from #21 to #20.

Official U.K. charts:

  • Official Album chart: 'The 50 Greatest Hits' dropped from #61 to #66.
  • Official Streaming Album chart: 'The 50 Greatest Hits' dropped from #44 to #46.
  • Official Music DVD chart: 'Elvis The Searcher' re-entry at #37.
The Rolling Stones clinch this week’s Number 1 on the Official Albums Chart with 'Goats Head Soup' setting a new record becoming the first band in Official Chart history to score a Number 1 album across six different decades. Elvis Presley managed No. 1s in five separate decades. 

The Rolling Stones now have 13 Number 1 albums (including reissues Exile On Main St and Goats Head Soup), putting them equal with Elvis. Only The Beatles have achieved more Number 1 albums in the UK (16 plus reissues).

(Source: U.K. Mix / Official Chart Company)

Friday, September 11, 2020

September 11 - Filming To Resume

Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis Presley biopic - delving into the dynamic between Presley and his manager Colonel Tom Parker - is set to resume filming September 23rd in Australia after production was shut down back in March due to the coronavirus outbreak after Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson tested positive for coronavirus.

Cinema

From Friday September 11 - Tuesday September 15 'Elvis: That's The Way It Is' is shown in select Cineplex theaters. in Canada. 

(Source: NME / FECC)

Thursday, September 10, 2020

September 10 - Classics From Memphis to Taipeh

Here is a small preview of the upcoming Asian Elvis vinyl book 'From Memphis to Taipeh'. The book will be a reference guide to the colorful magic of Elvis' Asian vinyl.

Grandes Clasicos

The 3-DVD set 'Elvis Presley - 3 Peliculas Grandes Clasicos' featuring the movies 'Loving You', 'Frankie and Johnny' and 'Clambake', was released.  

(Source: Kempo Dick on Facebook / Elvis Club Berlin)



Wednesday, September 09, 2020

September 07 - A Tinseltown Troubadour Died (Updated)

The Lauderdale Records import label announced the release of the CD 'Tinseltown Troubadour'. 

From the press release: 'Tinseltown Troubadour vol. 1 and 2' are two new releases with a difference. Both offer a wild 'n' crazy joyride through Elvis' movie years, in a fresh and exciting new way. 

Both CDs contain 30+ tracks, with each CD containing an 80-minute blast of movie versions, studio outtakes and alternative mixes, as well as rare promo spots and memorable movie dialogue. Everything has been freshly edited and mixed in glorious mono, and you’ll notice right away that these songs sound way groovier this way. 

There are surprises a’ plenty on these releases, including a cleverly edited version of 'Angel' that begins solo, but then slowly turns into a full band version, as well as a truly gorgeous 'As Long As I Have You'. And remember, all the elements used are original.

Packaged in beautiful digipacks with rare color pix they promise two  smooth-groovin', fast-movin', hip-shakin', shagadelic collections of Elvis Movie Magic that you just gotta have! "That ain’t cheap tactics, honey. It’s just the beast in me".
Tracks vol. 1: : Blue Suede Shoes; Slowly But Surely; Put The Blame On Me; I Don’t Wanna Be Tied; G.I. Blues; Night Rider; I Slipped, I Stumbled, I Fell; The Love Machine; There’s A Brand New Day On The Horizon; Harem Holiday; Almost Always True; Party; Shoppin’ Around; We’ll Be Together; Kissin’ Cousins; Angel; Doin’ The Best I can; Kissin’ Cousins; Summer Kisses, Winter Tears; Slowly But Surely; There’s Gold In The Mountains; If You Think I Don’t Need You; The Lady Loves Me; Let Yourself Go; A Dog’s Life; A Little Less Conversation; Britches; Lonesome Cowboy; Poor Boy; Let Me; Beyond The Reef; Loving You; One Broken Heart For Sale; Ft Lauderdale Chamber Of Commerce; Dirty Dirty Feeling; Tonight Is So Right For Love.

Tracks vol. 2: C’mon Everybody; Loving You; Blue Hawaii; Your Time Hasn’t Come Yet Baby; One More Day; Teddy Bear; A Boy Like Me, A Girl Like You; Take Me To The Fair; Happy Ending; It Won’t Be Long; Mean Woman Blues; Spinout; Adam & Evil; Spinout; I Think I’m Gonna Like It Here; She’s A Machine; Long Legged Girl; Bossa Nova Baby; Stop Where You Are; Rock A’ Hula Baby; There’s No Room To Rhumba; Drums Of The Islands; What A Wonderful Life; You Can’t Say No In Acapulco; Big Boots; Slicin' Sand; Smokey Mountain Boy; Girls, Girls, Girls; Catchin' On Fast; Follow That Dream; Long Lonely Highway; King Of The Whole Wide World; Meanest Girl In Town; You’re The Boss; Hey Little Girl.

Michael Rose Died

Author and producer Michael Rose died. In 2008 he produced the documentary DVD 'Elvis: Return To Tupelo' and in 2011 the Follow That Dream release 'Elvis Presley – A Moment in Time, 4 Days in ’56'. 

(Source: Elvis Shop London / Phoenix Elvis Forum)

Saturday, September 05, 2020

September 05 - Charts September - Week 1

The weekly global Elvis Presley chart update. Little movement on the charts (again), Elvis standard compilations continu to sell steadily.

U.S. Billboard charts
  • Billboard Album Top 200 chart: 'The Essential Elvis Presley' dropped from #155 to #174.
  • Billboard Top Christian Album chart: 'Elvis: Ultimate Gospel' climbed from #44 to #41.
  • Billboard Top Rock Album chart: 'The Essential Elvis Presley' dropped from #18 to #24.
  • Billboard Top Country Album chart: 'The Essential Elvis Presley' dropped from #19 to #21.
Official U.K. charts:
  • Official Album chart: 'The 50 Greatest Hits' dropped from #57 to #61.
  • Official Streaming Album chart: 'The 50 Greatest Hits' remained steady at #44.
  • The 'Elvis Lives - Live From Memphis' DVD and 'The Elvis Collection' DVD-set dropped off the Official Music DVD chart.  
Official Scottish charts:
  • Official Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' dropped from #41 to #89.
(Source: UK Mix / official Chart Company)

Wednesday, September 02, 2020

September 02 - Graceland Wall Clean(ed)

Graceland took care of business, the graffiti on the Graceland walls have been removed.

The graffiti covered up many of the hundreds of tributes to the music icon handwritten by fans on the wall over the years. By mid-morning on Tuesday, workers with power-wash equipment were removing the slogans and by Wednesday it was all cleaned and removed.

Priscilla Presley expressed her disgust at the vandalism: 


"Concerning the graffiti at Graceland, I’m absolutely horrified that those in our own city disgraced the walls surrounding Graceland. I’m saddened by acts like this and appalled by this behavior. We were able to clean all the graffiti off thanks to our dedicated crew".

Graceland has put on extra security to protect the wall from vandals ... or was it Elvis who took care of business? :-) 

Rethinking Elvis


In an interview with the Elvis Information Network Mark Duffett, author of 'Elvis Roots, Image, Comeback, Phenomenon', announced that he is working on a book for Oxford University Press called 'Rethinking Elvis'. 


The book is written by a number of academics contributors and should be released in 2021.


Visit >>> the Elvis Information Network to read this interesting interview. 


(Source: Facebook / Elvis Information Network)