December 31 - A Preview from Taipeh

We close the year with some eye-candy from the Orient with a preview of the upcoming 'From Memphis to Taipeh' - A Reference Guide to the Colorful Magic of Elvis' Asian Vinyl' book by Dick Dekker ('Bootleg Elvis' book) and Ferry Van Der Werf. The release is set for January 2021.

This book, limited to 500 copies,  focuses on the 10 inch and 12 inch vinyl releases from six major Asian countries: Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand.  

Visit >>> preview. 

(Source: Dick Dekker)

December 30 - New Book, Remixes and Footage

Inspired by the upcoming Elvis biopic from director Baz Luhrmann Todd Slaughter, President of the Official Elvis Presley fanclub of the U.K., is working on a new biography on Colonel Tom Parker according to the UEPS.

Exclusive Remixes

A trio of Elvis Presley songs have been remixed by contemporary artists exclusively for the Peloton exercise platform.

The songs - 'Catchin' On Fast', 'Do the Vega' and 'Clean Up Your Own Backyard' - were remixed, respectively, by Outkast member Big Boi, acclaimed DJ Dillon Francis and electro-funk duo Chromeo.

The collaboration marks the first time that music has been created by any artist exclusively for the Peloton platform.

The remixes arrive in the wake of the launch of Peloton's Elvis Artist Series, which offers classes set to the late rock 'n' roll legend's songs.

The revamped tracks will be integrated into various classes that don't require Peloton equipment, including yoga, strength, core and outdoor running classes.

Buzzy Forbess Died

Elvis’ high school close friend, Buzzy Forbess, has passed away.

Elvis and Buzzy were good friends at Humes High and Elvis’ early days at Sun.

In his freshman year of high school Elvis teamed up with three friends, Buzzy Forbess, Paul Dougher and Farley Guy, to start a lawn business. With a push lawn mower that his father, Vernon, purchased for him, and a few sickles, Elvis and his team mowed yards at the cost of $4.00 per yard.

Buzzy noted that "In the early days Elvis didn’t have the wiggle and what-have-you then but some things about Elvis never changed. But when Elvis started singing he’d always affect people just with his voice and singing."

Over the years Buzzy was interviewed in various newspaper, magazine and Elvis television documentary specials, contributed to several books and helped inspire an upcoming book about Elvis’ appearance at the Grand Ole Opry.

Chicago Film Archives Footage

The Chicago Film Archives uploaded almost 20 minutes of new Elvis footage to their online collection. The 16mm  footage, shot by filmmaker Frank Koza, shows Elvis Presley entering the U.S. Army on March 24th 1958 and Elvis reporting to his first day at Fort Chaffee after being inducted into the military one day later. 

Description: Silent news outtakes from 1958 capture singer and Army Private Elvis Presley reporting to his first day at Fort Chaffee after being inducted into the military. 

Surrounded by photographers, Presley is seen marching through camp to a testing center with his fellow inductees. We then see him unpacking in his barracks, and eating at a cafeteria. He is greeted by young fans as he departs a charter bus. He receives bedding and prepares his assigned bunk.

The singer is processed into the Army on March 24, 1958 at Fort Chaffee, Arkansas. He talks to reporters, fills out paperwork, and gets a physical examination. Elvis' parents, Vernon and Gladys Presley, are seen briefly, looking dour. The day was dubbed "black Monday" for his fans by the press.

(Source: UEPS /  Peloton / Chicago Film Archives / Elvis Information Network)

December 29 - 2020 Elvis News Rewind Video

Emiel Maier compiled a 2020 Rewind of the main Elvis Presley News of the year, covering January until December. 

The overview includes some preview of my upcoming book 'Elvis Day By Day 2020 - The Year In Review' which will be available mid-January 2021. 

You can pre-order the book >>> here.

December 28 - It's Impossible Songwriter Died

Mexican songwriter Armando Manzanero died. He was 85. R.I.P.

Manzanero wrote the original version of 'It's Impossible' ('Somos Novios') in 1968. Two years later Sid Wayne added English lyrics set to the music. Elvis Presley recorded 'It's Impossible' on stage at the Las Vegas Hilton February 16, 1972. This version was first released on his 1973 album 'Elvis'.

Dig This Interview

The January 2021 edition of the Now Dig This magazine features Elvis on the cover and inside the article 'The Complete ‘TV Guide’ Interview'. 

(Source: Facebook / NTD)

December 27 - Ann-Margret to be Honored

Ann-Margret, Elvis’ Presley’s co-star in the enduring 1964 movie musical 'Viva Las Vegas' and a frequent Strip headliner, was added to the list of 2021 honorees for the 2021 UNLV College of Fine Arts Hall of Fame on April 13 2021. 

(Source: Las Vegas Review)

December 26 - A King Was Born

Frank D'Onofrio published his 102-page paperback 'Elvis Presley: The King of Rock and Roll'. 

Description: The book describes the early career of Elvis Presley when rocketed from oblivion and became one of the greatest influences of the 20th Century. Within three years, Elvis Presley went from the brink of a failed audition to the largest-selling recording artist in the world! Elvis: The King of Rock and Roll describes why Elvis Presley earned and deserved this title. 

(Source: Amazon)

December 26 - Charts December 2020 - Week 4 (Updated 30/12)

The weekly global Elvis Presley chart update. The Christmas catalog still sells very well, giving Elvis almost another #1 listing. 

Elvis Presley’s 'The Classic Christmas Album' logs its first week in the top 10 as it rises 12-9. First appearing on the Catalog chart in 2014, it has overtaken other Elvis collections, most notably 'It’s Christmas Time', for the distinction of the top Elvis Christmas album. It is Elvis’ ninth top 10 on the Catalog chart, 

'The Classic Christmas Album' is the third Elvis Christmas collection to reach the top 10, following 'Elvis’ Christmas Album' (1957) and 'It’s Christmas Time'.

Official U.S. Billboard charts:

• Billboard Top 200 chart: 'The Classic Christmas Album' climbed from #36 to #30. 
• Billboard Global 200 chart: 'Blue Christmas' dropped from #67 to #78. 
• Billboard Global 200 chart: 'Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane)' new entry #138.
• Billboard Top Album Sales chart: 'The Classic Christmas Album' dropped from #40 to #60.
• Billboard Catalog Album chart: 'The Classic Christmas Album' climbed from #12 to #9. 
• Billboard Hot 100 Recurrents chart: 'Blue Christmas' climbed from #5 to #3. 
• Billboard Hot 100 Recurrents chart: 'Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane)' new entry #18.
• Billboard Holiday 100 chart: 'Blue Christmas' climbed from #24 to #23. 
• Billboard Holiday 100 chart: 'Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane)' climbed from #86 to #35.
• Billboard Top Holiday Albums chart: ' The Classic Christmas Album' climbed from #14 to #11. 
• Billboard Holiday Streaming chart: 'Blue Christmas' remained steady #25.  
• Billboard Holiday Streaming chart: 'Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane)' re-entry #32. 
• Billboard Holiday Airplay chart: 'Blue Christmas' climbed from #36 to #34. 
• Billboard Holiday Digital Song chart: 'Blue Christmas' climbed from #44 to #37. 
• Billboard Top Christian Album chart: 'Elvis: Ultimate Gospel' climbed from #27 to #25. 
• Billboard Top Rock Album chart: 'The Classic Christmas Album' climbed from #4 to #2. 
• Billboard Top Rock Album chart: 'The Essential Elvis Presley' climbed from #48 to #43. 
• Billboard Rock Digital Song Sales chart: 'Blue Christmas' climbed from #10 to #7. 
• Billboard Top Country Album chart: 'The Classic Christmas Album' climbed from #6 to #5. 
• Billboard Top Country Album chart: 'The Essential Elvis Presley' climbed from #29 to #26. 
• Billboard Country Digital Song Sales chart: 'Blue Christmas' remained steady at #6. 
• Billboard Country Digital Song Sales chart: 'Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane)' re-entry #8.
• Billboard Catalogue Album Sales chart: 'The Classic Christmas Album' dropped from #15 to #26. 
• Billboard Classical Album chart: 'Christmas with Elvis and the RPO' dropped from #16 to #16. 
• Billboard Artist chart: Elvis Presley climbed from #40 to #37. 

Official Canadian charts:

• Canadian Album chart: 'White Christmas' re-entry #45. 

Official U.K. charts:

• Official Single chart: 'Blue Christmas' climbed from #95 to #76. 
• Official Streaming Single chart: 'Blue Christmas' dropped from #68 top #72. 
• Official Streaming Album chart: 'The 50 Greatest Hits' dropped from #59 to #64. 
• Official Streaming Album chart: ''Christmas with Elvis and the RPO' re-entry #84. 
• Official Streaming Album chart: 'If Every Day Was Like Christmas' re-entry #91.
• Official Physical Album chart: 'Christmas with Elvis and the RPO' dropped from #97 to #98.
• Official Album Sales chart: 'Christmas with Elvis and the RPO' re-entry #82.
• Official Country Compilations chart: 'From Elvis In Nashville' remained steady at #4.
• Official Music DVD chart: 'The Elvis Collection' climbed from #18 to #13. 
• Official Music DVD chart: 'Elvis The Searcher' re-entry #29.

Official Scottish charts:

• Official Album chart: 'Christmas with Elvis and the RPO' re-entry at #74.
• Official Album chart: 'Party' re-entry at #100. 

IRMA Irish chart:

• Official Singles chart: 'Blue Christmas' dropped form #70 to 93. 

Australian ARIA Charts:

• Catalog Album chart: 'Christmas with Elvis and the RPO' dropped from #18 to #24.

Norwegian charts:

• Album Top 40 chart: 'Elvis Christmas Album' re-entry at #37.

Official Dutch charts:

• Singles Top 100 chart: 'Blue Christmas' re-entry at #74.
• Album Top 100 chart: 'Elvis Christmas Album' climbed from #85 to #71. 

Swedish charts:

• Swedish Album Top 60: 'Elvis' Christmas Album' climbed from #28 to #13. 
• Swedish Singles chart: 'Blue Christmas' climbed from #52 to #42. 

Croatian charts:

• Croatian Album Top 40 chart: 'Elvis' Christmas Album' dropped from #22 to #26.

(Source: UK Mix / Official Chart Company / Billboard / Dutchcharts / VG-Lista / IRMA)

Merry Christmas!

A Merry Christmas to all readers of Elvis Day By Day, thanks for stopping by again this year! Let's wish for a better 2021 for everybody!

Apple Music listed 'Elvis Presley's Christmas Essentials'. They nicely described Elvis Christmas recordings: "hear why Elvis had more of a handle on the holidays than any other first-generation rock 'n' roller" on Apple Music’s 'Elvis Christmas Essentials Playlist'. 

The streaming service posted posted: "Nobody brings out the underlying loneliness some folks feel during the holidays like Elvis Presley does on his legendary Yuletide lament 'Blue Christmas'. But The King has a way with carols that goes far deeper than a single song. 

Hearing him delivering season’s greetings in the form of a gritty, grooving 12-bar blues on 'Merry Christmas Baby' or digging into his spiritual side for a goosebump-inducing version of 'Silent Night' underlines the fact that Elvis had more of a handle on the holidays than any other first-generation rock 'n' roller.

Listen to Elvis deliver on 'Blue Christmas', 'Silent Night', 'Santa Bring My Baby Back (To Me)' and many others."

This clearly shows Elvis still matters today, even on streaming services in 2020! 

>>> visit Apple's 'Elvis Presley Christmas Essentials or put on an old fashioned LP, CD or cassette to enjoy some Elvis Christmas music.

December 24 - An Atlanta Christmas (Updated 27/12)

The AudiRec import-label released the deluxe triple digi-pack 'Atlanta Weekend '76' containing the previously released June 4 - 6, 1976 shows as recorded in Atlanta, GA. These show were taken from the original sources recorded by the same person and restored the sound from scratch. 

Originally the label wanted to add the December 30, 1976 show too, but left this show off as the Follow That Dream collectors label announced that it would release this show officially from a soundboard source.

CD 1 - 04.06.1976: Also Sprach Zarathustra - C. C. Rider - I Got A Woman / Amen - Love Me - If You Love Me (Let Me Know) - You Gave Me A Mountain - All Shook Up - Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel - Help Me - Jailhouse Rock  - Fever - Polk Salad Annie - Band Introductions - Early Morning Rain - What'd I Say - Johnny B. Goode - Drum Solo (Ronnie Tutt) - Bass Solo (Jerry Scheff) - Piano Solo (Tony Brown) - Electric Piano Solo (David Briggs) - Love Letters - School Day - Hurt (#1) - Hurt (#2) - Burning Love - Funny How Time Slips Away - Little Darlin' - Can't Help Falling In Love - Closing Vamp.

CD 2 - 05.06.1976: Also Sprach Zarathustra - C. C. Rider - I Got A Woman / Amen - Monologue - Love Me - If You Love Me (Let Me Know) - You Gave Me A Mountain - All Shook Up - Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel - Help Me - America (The Beautiful) - Jailhouse Rock - Fever - Polk Salad Annie - Monologue (About Pontiac, MI, New Years Eve Show) - Band Introductions - Early Mornin' Rain - What'd I Say - Johnny B. Goode - Drum Solo (Ronnie Tutt) - Bass Solo (Blues - Jerry Scheff) - Piano Solo (Tony Brown) - Electric Piano Solo (David Briggs) - Love Letters - School Day - Hurt (#1) - Hurt (#2) - Burning Love - One Night - Dialogue - Funny How Time Slips Away - Mystery Train / Tiger Man - Can't Help Falling In Love - Closing Vamp.

CD 3 - 06.06.1976: Also Sprach Zarathustra - C. C. Rider - I Got A Woman / Amen - Love Me - If You Love Me (Let Me Know) - You Gave Me A Mountain - All Shook Up - Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel - Help Me - Jailhouse Rock - Fever - America (The Beautiful) - Band Introductions - Love Letters - School Day - Hurt (#1) - Hurt (#2) - Burning Love - Big Boss Man - Shake A Hand - Funny How Time Slips Away - Mystery Train / Tiger Man - Can't Help Falling In Love - Closing Vamp / Announcements.

Geoff Stephens Passed Away

British songwriter Geoff Stephens past away. He was 86. R.I.P. 

Elvis Presley recorded the songs 'This Is Our Dance', 'Heart Of Rome' and 'Sylvia' (co-)written by him. 

(Source: Various / Essential Elvis / The Elvis Telegraph)

December 23 - On the Road with FTD

The limited edition book / 3-CD set 'On the Road with Elvis' by Gary Jackson was released by the Follow That Dream collectors label.

The book - originally released in 2018 - documents Bruce Jacksons work as Elvis' sound engineer at the concerts from 1971 to 1977. It comes with complete with three new compact discs. 

CD 1: An audio documentary on Elvis in 1976 hosted by Jack Mullins. CD 2: Previously unreleased soundboard recording of Elvis’ concert in Sioux Falls, October 18th 1976. CD 3: Previously unreleased soundboard recording of Elvis’ concert in Atlanta, December 30th 1976.

Sioux Falls, South Dakota, October 18th 1976:
Also Sprach Zarathustra / See See Rider / I Got A Woman – Amen / Love Me / Fairytale / Jailhouse Rock / You Gave Me A Mountain / All Shook Up / (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear – Don’t Be Cruel / And I Love You So / Fever / Steamroller Blues / America The Beautiful / Band Intros / Early Morning Rain / What’d I Say / Hurt / Hound Dog / Blue Christmas / My Heavenly Father (sung by Kathy Westmoreland) / Can’t Help Falling In Love / Closing Vamp

Atlanta, Georgia, December 30th 1976:
See See rider / I Got A Woman – Amen / Big Boss Man / Love Me / Fairytale / Happy Birthday / You Gave Me A Mountain / O Sole Mio (sung by Sherrill Nielsen) / It’s Now Or Never / Jailhouse Rock / Such A Night / Reconsider Baby / Are You Lonesome Tonight? / That’s All Right / My Way / Polk Salad Annie / Band Intros / Early Morning Rain / What’d I Say / Johnny B. Goode / Love Letters / School Day / Hurt / Hound Dog / Unchained Melody / Can’t Help Falling In Love / Closing Vamp.

(Source: Memphis Mansion)

December 22 - Girl Happy at the Speedway

Warner Bros. announced the re-issue of of the movies 'Speedway' and 'Girl Happy' on DVD in their 'Archive Collection series. The DVDs are due January 26th 2021.

Speedway: He races. She chases. Yet love and laughter find a way when World 600 stock car driver Elvis meets Internal Revenue Service collection agent Nancy Sinatra in Speedway. There Ain't Nothing Like a Song, pedal-to-the-metal Elvis and go-go-booted Nancy sing. For the first time since he and Ann-Margret proclaimed Viva Las Vegas, Presley pairs with a high-octane singing, dancing leading lady. Bill Bixby is the manager who mismanages Presley into a $145,000 jam with the IRS, and laughs are further fueled by veteran TV funnymen Gale Gordon (The Lucy Show) and Carl Ballantine (McHales Navy). The supersonic song list includes Let Yourself Go, Your Time Hasn't Come Yet, Baby and Your Groovy Self. Have a groovy time!

Girl Happy: Spring break in Fort Lauderdale. Its the perfect time and place for a girl, a guy and a beach blanket and for a box-office bonanza when Elvis Presley goes Girl Happy. Rock and rolls first icon was ranked 6th among the top box-office stars when he headlined this fun-never-sets shindig. He portrays club singer Rusty Wells, who, when not wowing the crowds, has the added task of making sure the overly exuberant daughter of his boss (Harold J. Stone) doesn't fall for any revved up bikini chasers while on vacation. Shelley Fabares, Presleys favorite leading lady and a singing star in her own right (her 1962 tune Johnny Angel was a #1 hit), plays the daughter. And the lively songs include Do the Clam, Puppet on a String, the title tune and nine more ways to keep fans movie happy.

(Source: Amazon)

December 19 - Trouble In Paradise?

A few days ago the new Pyramid import-label announced the release of the double DVD set 'Sold Out! The Rex Martin 8mm Collection: Volume 1'. Reactions from fans and collectors on various forums were mixed, and there seems a bit of trouble in bootlegger's paradise. One collector announced he would upload the footage to YouTube. 

And he did. View the footage on >>> YouTube.

The Pyramid label issued a statement: 

Since announcing our 2 DVD-set release ”Sold Out!” a couple of days ago, there have been a lot of fan reactions. A lot of interest from the fans, who are excited by the release of such an extravaganza of rare 8mm footage. This release has also sent a shockwave through the community of hardcore collectors, who always pride themselves in sitting on the treasures they own, every once in a while inviting a select few to see this footage, so that they can feel “superior”.

Now that we are releasing such a treasure trove of unreleased material, one German collector in particular has tried to sabotage our release, simply because he does not want this material to come out. We have received several unhinged mails with threats from this individual, who shall remain nameless for now. We find his behavior appalling, and actually a bit sad. The greatness of Elvis is to be shared, and this footage deserves to be seen by all of you, as much of it is absolutely sensational. The people who originally shot this footage, including Rex Martin and Jim Curtin, gladly shared their footage with others, and it is in that spirit that we are now sharing it with you.

And only now that these 8mm films is coming out, this German collector threatens to put it online, in a sad attempt to try and prevent the other volumes from coming out. But we will not be intimidated by this very “small” man. It has only made us more determined to release it all. The good news is that we have 25+ hours of rare 8mm footage, some of it having been located only recently. Volume 1 is now out, volume 2 is in production, and # 3 and 4 will also follow shortly. As we stated in our first press release, this is a release from fans for fans. **** those few creepy elitists – the time has come for the real fans to see this footage.

This is the most significant release of unreleased material in ages. We have done everything to ensure that this material is presented in the best and most affordable way possible. No bullshit, no expensive extras – just the real deal. And the fact that our first release is making various hardcore collectors nervous is itself quite an endorsement, and underlines the fact that these releases are not to be missed. We are ready to blow the gates wide open…. Because the fans deserve it. Support us and prepared to be surprised: 2021 is going to be a great year for all Elvis fans! 

Sold

Elvis Presley’s 1969 Mercedes-Benz 600 limo sells for US$293,888

Elvis Presley bought and sold and estimated 200 cars in his lifetime, most of which he enjoyed driving himself. Some, however, were chauffeur-driven show pieces for those times when The King of Rock ’n’ Roll required a more distinguished ride. One of those, a 1969 Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman limousine, just sold for US$293,888 on Bring a Trailer.

The average value of a non-Elvis-owned 1969 Mercedes-Benz 600 in #2 (Excellent) condition is $163,000. Clearly, the King still has the Midas touch, more than four decades after his death. According to the comments, the winning bid was still less than the seller expected (US$288,888, plus a US$5000 commission fee). He indicated that he is donating the proceeds to charity.

(Source: Elvis Club Berlin / MSN)

December 19 - Charts December 2020 - Week 3 (Updated 23/12)

The weekly global Elvis Presley chart update. Elvis' classic Christmas catalogue pushes Elvis up the album and single charts. 

U.S. Billboard charts:

• Global 200 chart: 'Blue Christmas' climbed from #95 to #67.
• Streaming Songs chart: 'Blue Christmas' climbed from #44 to #39.
• Top 200 chart: ' The Classic Christmas Album' climbed from #43 to #36. 
• Top Album Sales chart: 'The Classic Christmas Album' climbed from #45 to #40. 
• Catalog Albums chart: 'The Classic Christmas Album: 'climbed from #14 to #12. 
• Hot 100 Recurrents chart: 'Blue Christmas' climbed from #6 to #5.
• Holiday 100 chart: 'Blue Christmas' dropped from #24 to #23. 
• Holiday 100 chart: 'Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane)' climbed from #93 to #86.
• Top Holiday Albums chart: 'The Classic Christmas' climbed from #15 to #14. 
• Holiday Streaming Songs chart: 'Blue Christmas' remained steady #25. 
• Catalog Album chart: 'The Classic Christmas Album; climbed from #14 to #12. 
• Holiday Airplay chart: 'Blue Christmas' dropped from #33 to #36. 
• Holiday Digital Song Sales chart: 'Blue Christmas' dropped from #39 to #44.
• Top Christian Album chart: 'Elvis: Ultimate Gospel' climbed from #40 to #27. 
• Top Rock Album chart: 'The Classic Christmas Album' climbed from #6 to #4. 
• Top Rock Albums chart: 'The Essential Elvis Presley' dropped from #38 to #48. 
• Rock Digital Song Sales chart: 'Blue Christmas' remained steady at #10.
• Top Country Album chart: 'The Classic Christmas Album' remained steady at #6.
• Top Country Album chart: 'The Essential Elvis Presley' dropped from #24 to #29. 
• Country Streaming Songs chart: 'Blue Christmas' remained steady at #6. 
• Classical Album chart: 'Christmas with Elvis and the RPO' dropped from #11 to #15. 
• Artist charts: Elvis Presley climbed from #48 to #40.

Canadian Album chart:

• Official Album chart: 'The Classic Christmas Album' re-entry #48. 

Official U.K. charts:

• Official Single Top 100 chart: 'Blue Christmas' dropped from #94 to #95.
• Official Streaming Single Top 100 chart: 'Blue Christmas' dropped from #68 to #72.
• Official Streaming Album Top 100: 'The 50 Greatest Hits' dropped from #59 to #64.
• Official Country Compilation chart: 'From Elvis In Nashville' remained steady at #4. 
• Official Music Dvd chart: 'The Elvis Collection' climbed from #28 to #18.

Official Irish charts:

• Single Top 100 chart: 'Blue Christmas' dropped from #93 to #96. 

Official Dutch charts:

• Album Top 100 chart: 'Elvis' Christmas Album' new-entry #85. 

Swedish charts:

• Swedish Album Top 60 chart: 'Elvis' Christmas Album' climbed from #32 to #28. 

Australian Charts

• Catalog Album chart: 'Christmas with Elvis and the RPO' climbed from #18 to #16.

Croatian charts:

• Croatian Album Top 50: 'Elvis' Christmas Album' dropped from #14 to #22.

(Source: Official Chart Company / UK Mix / Billboard / Dutchcharts / Veckolista / Martin / Aria charts)

December 18 - Award For Graceland

Some good news for Graceland to come this year. The Graceland Mansion has been chosen as the 'Best Holiday Historic Home Tour' by the 2020 USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards! 

We're so proud that the 2020 award also gives Elvis' home the distinction of being the only attraction worldwide to ever receive eight USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, among those being the "#1 Most Iconic American Attraction," the world's "Best Musical Attraction," and “Best Tennessee Attraction and Iconic Landmark” just to name a few!

(Source: Graceland)

December 17 - Sold Out!

The Pyramid import label announced the release of the 2-DVD set 'Sold Out! The Rex Martin 8mm Collection volume 1' which should be available late December 2020. 

From the press release: 

Have you ever wondered what it would have been like to experience amazing shows like the two Nassau Coliseum concerts on July 19th, 1975? Or even controversial shows like College Park ’74? Good news for all fans of rare Elvis footage, because we have just obtained the complete Rex Martin 8-mm footage collection, and plan to release it all over the next months. Much of this footage is superb quality, with amazing action clips and fantastic close-ups. This is as close as it gets to experiencing the man in concert!

Our first release is 'Sold Out! The Rex Martin 8mm Collection volume 1', a 2-DVD-set that contains three hours of rare 8mm footage, most of it never released before. All from the original tapes, raw and unedited, everything just as it was originally recorded. We decided to release this footage as is, without any editing, for historical purposes.

There are many amazing, lovely, cool, funny and great moments on this release: Elvis using his guitar like a bayonet during ‘C.C. Rider’ in Uniondale ‘75, singing a rare ‘Shake, Rattle & Roll’ during the rock medley in ‘73, and much, much more. This is the real Elvis, captured live during tours from ’70 to ’76.

Pleases support this release and we will finally open the floodgates for rare and amazing footage. This is a release from fans to fans. 

We could have included an expensive book to make more money, but we just wanted to make this material available in the most affordable way possible. Hence this 2-DVD-set that’s absolutely filled with rare 8mm footage.

(Source: FECC / eBay)

December 14 - Walk A Lonely Street to a Honeymoon Hideaway

Author Tony Plews published his book 'Walk A Lonely Street: Elvis Presley, Country Music & The True Story of Heartbreak Hotel'. The book was 10 years in the making. 

Description: The book Walk A Lonely Street: Elvis Presley, Country Music & The True Story of Heartbreak Hotel' is a unique volume that tells the tale of Elvis Presley’s rise to fame as viewed through the lens of his era-defining first hit record, “Heartbreak Hotel”. 

Presented as a series of consecutive short stories, it offers a new perspective on Presley’s musical and cultural achievements, and reveals the true and dramatic saga behind the breakthrough song that launched his career and changed the world.

For reviews and more information on how to order visit the authors website: >>> George Smith Publications. 

 

Postponed and Closed

The installation and inauguration of the Elvis' statue on the famous bridge in Bad Nauheim has been postponed due to the increasing number of covid infections in Germany. 

The statue was set to be inaugurated on January 8, 2021, Elvis' birthday. The bronze statue will be placed on a completely renovated bridge in the park, where the photo shoot with Elvis took place.

In America too, measures are beginning to take again to halt the spread of the corona virus. The birth house and the site around Tupelo is closed indefinitely. We received the message from the management of the Elvis Presley Birthplace in Tupelo that it has been decided to close the house, church, museum, and chapel to guarantee everyone's safety.

Sold!

A mystery buyer couldn’t help falling in love with Elvis Presley’s honeymoon hideaway — and has agreed to purchase the saucer-shaped Palm Springs, California, home for more than its $2.5 million listing price.

Elvis and Priscilla rented the five-bedroom, five-bathroom hideaway in Palm Springs for their honeymoon in 1967. The futuristic home is made of four connected pods — some spherical, others hexagonal. It first splashed onto the architectural scene as Look Magazine’s 1962 “House of Tomorrow.”

Histed, of California brokerage Bennion Deville Homes, said that the home at 1350 Ladera Circle had several conditional offers over the past few years that fell through. The property was listed 10 times over the past six years and on Nov. 30, offered a nearly 75% discount from its original $9.5 million asking price in 2014. 

(Source: Tony Plews / ElvisMatters / Elvis In Bronze / NYT Post)

December 12 - Another Gold Record Award

Elvis Presley was awarded another Gold Record Award by the British Phonographic Industry (B.P.I.) for the single 'Jailhouse Rock' that was released November 16, 2004. It sold over 400,000 copies since the day of release (streams plus digital downloads plus physical sales). 

Charley Pride Died

Country singer Charley Pride died last Saturday due to Covid. He was 86. 

He and Elvis were friends and Elvis sang a line of two songs 'The Easy Part's Over' and 'Kaw Liga' in Houston and in Las Vegas in 1970.

(Source: FECC / B.P.I.)

December 12 - Charts December 2020 - Week 2

The weekly global Elvis Presley chart updates. Elvis' Christmas albums sell very well again in the U.S. and but also make appearances on the UK, Irish, Scottish, Croatian, Belgian and charts.  

US Billboard charts

• Top 200 Album chart: 'The Classic Christmas Album' climbed from #92 to #43. 
• Global 200 Singles chart: 'Blue Christmas' new entry #95. 
• Top Album Sales chart: 'The Classic Christmas Album' climbed from #54 to #45. 
• Catalog Album chart: 'The Classic Christmas Album' climbed from #21 to #14. 
• Hot 100 Recurents chart: 'Blue Christmas' re-entry #6.
• Holiday Top 100 chart: 'Blue Christmas' remained steady #23. 
• Holiday Top 100 chart: 'Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane)' dropped from #89 to 93.
• Top Holiday Album chart: "The Classic Christmas Album' climbed from #16 to #15. 
• Top Holiday Streaming Songs chart: 'Blue Christmas' remained steady #25. 
• Holiday Airplay chart: 'Blue Christmas' dropped from #26 to #33.
• Holiday Digital Song Sales chart: 'Blue Christmas' climbed from #48 to #38. 
• Top Christian Album chart: 'Elvis: Ultimate Gospel' climbed from #50 to #40. 
• Top Rock Album chart: 'The Classic Christmas Album' climbed from #11 to #6. 
• Top Rock Album chart: 'The Essential Elvis Presley' dropped from #23 to #38. 
• Rock Digital Song Sales chart: 'Blue Christmas' re-entry #10.
• Top Country Albums chart: 'The Classic Christmas Album' climbed from #12 to #6. 
• Top Country Albums chart: 'The Essential Elvis Presley' remained steady #24. 
• Country Streaming Songs: 'Blue Christmas' climbed from #24 to #6. 
• Streaming Songs chart: 'Blue Christmas' re-entry #44.
• Catalog Album Sales chart: 'The Classic Christmas Album' dropped from #18 to #20. 
• Artist chart: Elvis Presley climbed from #51 to #48.

Canadian Charts

• Canadian Album chart: "White Christmas' new entry #68.

Official UK charts:

• Official Streaming Album chart: 'The 50 Greatest Hits' dropped from #57 to #59. 
• Singles Top 100 chart: 'Blue Christmas' re-entry #94. 
• Streaming Singles chart: 'Blue Christmas' climbed from #88 to #68
• Physical Album Sales chart: 'Christmas with Elvis and the RPO' re-entry #97.
• Album Sales chart: 'Christmas with Elvis and the RPO' re-entry #98.
• Music DVD chart: 'The Elvis Collection' climbed from #32 to #28.

Irish charts:

• Singles Top 100 chart: 'Blue Christmas' re-entry #93. 

Belgian charts:

• Album Top 100 chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' re-entry #192.

Official Scottish charts:

• Official Album charts: 'Christmas with Elvis and the RPO' re-entry #95.

Australian charts

• Top 50 Catalog Album chart: 'Christmas with Elvis and the RPO' climbed from #65 to #18.

Swedish charts:

• Swedish Album chart: 'Elvis' Christmas Album' climbed from #39 to #32.

Croatian charts:

• Croatian Album chart: 'Elvis Christmas Album' climbed from #34 to #14

(Source: Billboard / UK Mix / Official Chart Company / UltraTop / Lista Produce / Martin)

December 11 - Elvis: The Graphic Novel

Due for release August 11, 2021 from Z2 Comics is the book 'Elvis: The Graphic Novel' by Chris Miskiewicz and Marvel Comics artist Michael Shelfer and the Presley estate.

From the press release: The King of Rock and Roll is coming to comics in the first official graphic novel featuring Elvis Presley. Created in partnership with Authentic Brands Group and the Elvis Presley estate, 'Elvis: The Graphic Novel' will tell the life story of Presley.

Legends have to start somewhere... Witness the King of Rock 'n' Roll's humble beginnings in Memphis as a young artist struggling to define his voice and break into the music industry. From the history-making Sun Studio to television sets across the nation, the trials and tribulations of Elvis Presley are explored in graphic detail.

The title will be released in multiple formats: a standard edition available in both paperback and hardcover, as well as a limited “Blue Suede” edition, featuring an exclusive slipcase, a vinyl picture disc, and Elvis-inspired art prints by Chris Hunt and Erik Rodriguez. A super deluxe edition, limited to 300, will feature an additional art print available only with this release.

(Source: Z2 Comics / Hollywood Reporter)

December 10 - Inventing A Genius

The book 'Inventing Elvis - An American Icon in a Cold War World' by Mathias Haeussler - an Assistant Professor of Modern European History at Regensburg University, Germany - was released. 

From the press release: Elvis Presley stands tall as perhaps the supreme icon of 20th-century U.S. culture. But he was perceived to be deeply un-American in his early years as his controversial adaptation of rhythm and blues music and gyrating on-stage performances sent shockwaves through Eisenhower's conservative America and far beyond.

This book explores Elvis Presley's global transformation from a teenage rebel figure into one of the U.S.'s major pop-cultural embodiments from a historical perspective. It shows how Elvis's rise was part of an emerging transnational youth culture whose political impact was heavily conditioned by the Cold War. As well as this, the book analyses Elvis's stint as G.I. soldier in West Germany, where he acted as an informal ambassador for the so-called American way of life and was turned into a deeply patriotic figure almost overnight. Yet, it also suggests that Elvis's increasingly synonymous identity with U.S. culture ultimately proved to be a double-edged sword, as the excesses of his superstardom and personal decline seemingly vindicated long-held stereotypes about the allegedly materialistic nature of U.S. society.

Tracing Elvis's story from his unlikely rise in the 1950s right up to his tragic death in August 1977, this book offers a riveting account of changing U.S. identities during the Cold War, shedding fresh light on the powerful role of popular music and consumerism in shaping images of the United States during the cultural struggle between East and West.

Get 35% off - use the discount code ELVIS20 when ordering from bloomsbury.com.

The Record Producer Whose Genius Changed American Music 

The Sartoris Literary Group released of the 350-page hardcover book 'Chips Moman: The Record Producer Whose Genius Changed American'. 

Synopsis: Chips Moman's genius began in the studio, where he instituted technical innovations that forever changed the recording industry, but it expanded from there with an uncanny ability to recognize hit songs when he heard them as rough demos, and then blossomed with an unsurpassed string of hit records. 

He  was a co-founder of Memphis' Stax Records. Moman rescued Elvis Presley's career with his recordings of 'Suspicious Minds' and 'In the Ghetto', and he provided Willie Nelson with one of his most memorable signature songs, 'Always on My Mind'. Not bad for a Georgia country boy who dropped out of school in the eighth grade and hitch-hiked to Memphis in search of the American Dream.

By any measure-sales, multi-genre capability, number of hit records, technical innovation, artistry, etc.-Lincoln "Chips" Moman was the most important record producer in American history. With several hundred hits to his credit in pop, country, rhythm & blues, and rock, both from record production and songwriting, Chips Moman is legendary within the music industry. This biography is the story of his life.

(Source: Bloomsbury / Amazon)

  

December 08 - On the Road with FTD

The Follow That Dream Records collectors label announced that the previously announced limited edition version of the Australian 'Bruce Jackson - On the Road with Elvis' book / 3-CD set by Gary Jackson will be released this year after all. 

The book covers Bruce Jackson work as Elvis' live sound engineer from 1971 to 1977 and comes with an audio documentary hosted by Jack Mullins and soundboard recordings of the October 18, 1976 Sioux Falls concert and December 30, 1976 performance as recorded in Atlanta.

CD 1: An audio documentary on Elvis in 1976 hosted by Jack Mullins.

CD 2: Previously unreleased soundboard of Elvis’ concert in Sioux Falls, October 18th 1976.

CD 3: Previously unreleased soundboard of Elvis’ concert in Atlanta, December 30th 1976.

(Source: UEPS / Memphis Mansion)

December 07 - Elvis For Christmas

Released by the Italian TV Sorrisi & Canzoni magazine is the double CD 'Elvis For Christmas'. It contains 30-tracks like 'White Christmas', 'Silent Night', 'Take My Hand Precious Lord', 'Santa Bring My Baby Back To Me', 'Santa Claus Is Back In Town', 'Blue Christmas' and many more.

CD 1: White Christmas -Swing Down Sweet Chariot - I'll Be Home For Christmas - I Believe In The Man In The Sky - Silent Night - Joshua Fit The Battle - Santa Bring My Baby Back (To Me) - In My Father´s House (Are Many Mansions) - Oh Little Town Of Bethlehem - Working On The Building - Take My Hand Precious Lord - Milky White Way - Blue Moon - Pocketful Of Rainbow - Big Boots

CD 2: Blue Christmas - I´m Gonna Walk Dem Golden Stairs - Santa Claus Is Back In Town - If We Never Meet Again - (There'll Be) Peace In The Valley (For Me) - His Hand In Mine - I Believe - Jesus Knows What I Need - It Is No Secret - Known Only To Him - Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane) - Mansion Over The Hilltop - Steadfast, Loyal And True - I Will Be Home Again - Something Blue

(Source: Elvis Made In Italy)

December 05 - More Deluxe Chicago Nights

The MfX import label released yet another “Limited Edition Deluxe Edition” of their ‘Smooth Chicago Nights’ set featuring the October 14 and 15, 1976 shows as recorded in Chicago. 

This edition, limited to 20 copies, in two variations of 10 copies each, comes housed in a wooden box with two different Elvis logo’s, OBI’s, red and blue colored vinyl, stickers, certificates, posters, foldable water bottles, colored cassette tapes (with a soundboard of the October 14, 1976 show), a deluxe long digipack holding CDs and DVDs.

December 05 - Charts December 2020 - Week 1

The weekly global Elvis Presley chart updates. Elvis Presley's 'From Elvis In Nashville' entered the U.S. charts, following his Christmas releases. In Europe and the U.K. the Nashville set already dropped off the chart after last week's new entries around Europe. 

U.S. Billboard charts:

• Billboard Top 200 chart: 'The Classic Christmas Album' climbed from #159 to #92.
• Billboard Top 200 chart: 'The Essential Elvis Presley' dropped from #140 to #186. 
• Billboard Top Album Sales chart: 'The Classic Christmas Album' climbed from #57 to #54.
• Billboard Top Album Sales chart: 'From Elvis In Nashville' new entry #81.
• Billboard Catalog Album chart: 'The Classic Christmas Album' re-entry #21. 
• Billboard Holiday 100 chart: 'Blue Christmas' dropped from #19 to #23. 
• Billboard Holiday 100 chart: Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane) dropped from #81 to #89.
• Billboard Top Holiday Album chart: 'The Classic Christmas Album' dropped from #12 to #16. 
• Billboard Holiday Streaming Songs chart: 'Blue Christmas' dropped from #20 to #25.
• Billboard Holiday Airplay chart: 'Blue Christmas' remained steady #26.
• Billboard Holiday Digital Son Sales chart:' Blue Christmas' dropped from #38 to #48. 
• Billboard Top Christian Album Sales chart: 'Elvis: Ultimate Gospel' re-entry #50. 
• Billboard Top Rock Albums chart: 'The Essential Elvis Presley' remained steady #23. 
• Billboard Top Country Albums chart: 'The Essential Elvis Presley' dropped from #12 to #24. 
• Billboard Top Country Albums chart: 'The Classic Christmas Album' climbed from #15 to #12. 
• Billboard Top Country Streaming Songs chart:' Blue Christmas' re-entry #24. 
• Billboard Current Album Sales chart: 'From Elvis In Nashville' new entry #52.
• Billboard Classical Album chart: 'Christmas with Elvis and the RPO' re-entry #17.
• Billboard Artists chart: Elvis Presley climbed from #78 to #51.

Official U.K. charts:

• Official Streaming Album chart: 'The 50 Greatest Hits' dropped from #51 to #57. 
• Official Country Compilation chart: 'From Elvis In Nashville' remained steady at #2. 
• Official Music DVD chart: 'The Elvis Collection' dropped from #25 to #32. 

Belgian UltraTop charts

• Walonian Album chart: 'From Elvis In Nashville' dropped from #44 to #199.

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

December 04 - Essential Live, Studio and Christmas Works

Diggers Factory released the 2-LP 'The Essential Works: 1954 - 1962' in their 'The Essential Works' series. The 30-track set showcases the talents why fans will love him forever'. 

Elvis As Recorded Live In Huntsville '75

Out soon from the Revisited import label is the CD ‘Elvis As Recorded Live In Huntsville '75’. From the press release: A new CD release from the Revisited label with Elvis live at Von Braun Civic Center, Saturday May 31, 1975 (8:30 PM). Huntsville, AL. 

A great soundboard recording released only once before on a single disc many years ago. A show with great songs like ‘Hawaiian Wedding Song’ and ‘I'm Leavin'’. 

The beginning of the evening show was not recorded but as a bonus we've included recordings from the matinee show one day later (Sunday June 1, 1975, Huntsville, AL.), including ‘How Great Thou Art’ and a medley of early hits. Elvis was truly inspired by the superb reaction he received in Huntsville, selling out five shows. These are recordings from show number 3 and 4 in very good sound quality.

This is a limited edition soundboard release to celebrate the 45th Anniversary of this great event! Including a booklet with photos and information about these shows.

All Shook Up - (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear / Don’t Be Cruel - The Wonder Of You - Burning Love - Band Introductions - Johnny B. Goode - Drum Solo (By Ronnie Tutt) - Bass Solo (By Jerry Scheff) - Piano Solo (By Glen D. Hardin) - School Days - I Can’t Stop Loving You - T.R.O.U.B.L.E - Hawaiian Wedding Song - Let Me Be There (With Reprise) - Why Me, Lord? - An American Trilogy - Hound Dog - Funny How Time Slips Away - Little Darlin’ - I’m Leavin’ - Can’t Help Falling In Love - Closing Vamp

Bonus Songs - June 1, 1975 Matinee Show Huntsville, AL:

Heartbreak Hotel - If You Love Me (Let Me Know) - Let Me Be There - I Got A Woman / Amen - Burning Love - Love Me Tender / All Shook Up / Teddy Bear / Don’t Be Cruel - How Great Thou Art

Memphis Outtakes

Also out soon is the CD ‘Memphis Outtakes’ featuring 23 alternate recordings from Elvis’ legendary Memphis recordings at the American Sound Studio that were not released on the 2019 box ‘American Sound 1969’ according to the press release.

Come Out, Come Out (Wherever You Are) (Rehearsal - Medium Tempo #1) - True Love Travels On A Gravel Road (Take 3) - Power Of My Love (Rehearsal + Take 2) - Only The Strong Survive (Rehearsal + Take 2 & 3) - Wearin’ That Loved On Look (Take 4, 6, 7, 8, 9 & 11) - Do You Know Who I Am? (Rehearsal + Take 2) - If I’m A Fool (For Loving You) (Take 4 & 5) - From A Jack To A King (Take 4) - Power Of My Love (Take 4, 5, 6a & 6b) - Long Black Limousine (Take 4) - Only The Strong Survive (Take 4 & 5) - Only The Strong Survive (Take 6) - Only The Strong Survive (Take 7) - Only The Strong Survive (Take 9) - Do You Know Who I Am? (Take 6) - Do You Know Who I Am? (Take 7 - Undubbed Unedited Master) - True Love Travels On A Gravel Road (Take 8, 9, 10 + Overdub) - And The Grass Won’t Pay No Mind (Take 1 & 4) - Don’t Cry Daddy (Undubbed Master - Acetate Recording) - Mama Liked The Roses (Undubbed Master - Acetate Recording) - Come Out, Come Out (Wherever You Are) (Rehearsal - Slow Tempo #1) - A Blues Jam (Rehearsal)

Bonus Song:

Come Out, Come Out (Wherever You Are) (Rehearsal - Slow Tempo #2)

Elvis In Bronze

The bronze Elvis statue that is to be placed at the American Bridge in the German Town of Bad Nauheim - where Elvis lived for two years during his military service - was first placed at the bridge as a test. The bridge has been completely restored in recent weeks. The unveiling of the statue is set for January 08, 2020.

White Christmas

The Memphis Mansion record label released a while colored vinyl edition of their 'I'll Be Home For Christmas' E.P. This edition is limited to 75 copies. 

(Source: Amazon / FECC / Memphis Mansion / Elvis In Bronze)

 

December 03 - Blue Christmas Birhtday Bash

Graceland shared the invitation for the celebration of - what could have been - Elvis' 86th birthday. Fans can enjoy three days of birthday festivities surrounding the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s birthday!

That's The Way It Is

Today is the day! The classic 'Elvis: That's The Way It Is' returned to the big screen in the U.S. Experience electrifying performances of classics 'Love Me Tender', 'Blue Suede Shoes', 'Heartbreak Hotel', 'Suspicious Minds' and many more on the big screen! Elvis: That’s The Way It Is: Special Edition is in select cinemas for a limited time only!

Blue Christmas

Sony Legacy rings in this year's Holiday season with the first official music video of Elvis Presley's 'Blue Christmas'. 

Playing off the 'Blue Christmas' lyrics, the video follows the stories of three characters during the holiday season. 

Originally released in 1957 as a single and is on Elvis’ first Christmas album Elvis' Christmas Album, 'Blue Christmas', is resonating with a whole new generation of fans. In 2019, Elvis Presley was back on the Billboard Top 40 chart for the first time since 1981 ('Guitar Man'), with 'Blue Christmas'.

Anniversary Vinyl

The Memphis Mansion record label released the '30th Anniversary' LP, celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Elvis News fan club. The LP, housed in a gate-fold sleeve, contains 12 remastered songs, selected by fan club members. 

(Source: Graceland / Sony Legacy / Dorthe Bach Richter Larsen)