June 30 - Streaming Girls at Fort Worth

The Follow That Dream label announced the release of the double CD 'Elvis: Fort Worth, Texas '74' and a double LP edition of the 'Girls! Girls! Girls! soundtrack. The release of these two titles is set for July 26 2021.

Details Elvis: Fort Worth, Texas '74: 

FTD is pleased to announce the release of Elvis: Fort Worth, Texas '74. Released as a 5-inch digi-pack, and taken from the original soundboard source, this 2-CD set features Elvis in excellent form from the summer tour of 1974. Elvis was in great form at the two shows on Father’s Day! Songs include 'Big Boss Man', 'Funny  How Time Slips Away', 'How Great Thou Art' and 'Help Me'. 

CD 1: Recorded at Tarrant County Convention Center, Fort Worth, Texas, 3:00 pm 1974.

See See Rider - I Got A Woman / Amen - Love Me - Trying To Get To You - All Shook Up - Love Me Tender - Hound Dog - Fever - Polk Salad Annie - Why Me Lord - Suspicious Minds - Introductions - I Can’t Stop Loving You - Heartbreak Hotel - Help Me - American Trilogy - Let Me Be There - Funny How Time Slips Away - Big Boss Man - Can’t Help Falling In Love - Closing Vamp.

CD 2: Recorded at Tarrant County Convention Center, Fort Worth, Texas, 8:30.pm 1974

See See Rider - I Got A Woman / Amen - Love Me - Trying To Get To You - All Shook Up - Love Me Tender - Hound Dog - Fever - Polk Salad Annie - Why Me Lord - Suspicious Minds - Introductions - I Can’t Stop Loving You - Help Me - American Trilogy - Let Me Be There - unny How Time Slips Away - Big Boss Man - How Great Thou Art - Can’t Help Falling In Love - Closing Vamp.

These two performances have never been released as a soundboard before. While the set-lists were very similar Elvis did perform the rare-for-on-tour-1974 'How Great Thou Art' at the evening show.

EIN Added: Elvis performed four shows at the 14,000 seater Tarrant County Convention Center in Fort Worth Texas. These were the first four shows of Elvis' Tour #11 so he was ready to rock. The Opening Show newspaper review included:

"Elvis put on one sharp, uptown and professional show here Saturday afternoon. Wrapped skintight or loosely white bellbottoms and waist-length jacket. Elvis had the show in the palm of his hand. 

He moved smoothly through a few Elvis oldies and wheeled into heavier stuff ... 'Why Me Lord' and 'Suspicious Minds'.

Elvis was relaxed, comfortable before an obviously warm audience. His easy rapport with backup musicians and singers buoyed the show."

FTD have previously released five shows from this tour #11 all very enjoyable listening.

Rockin' Across Texas (CD1) June 19, Sold Out! CD2 June 21, ELVIS: Omaha Nebraska '74 CD1&2 June 30 (both shows), Fashion For A King (CD1) Omaha July 1.

Details Girls! Girls! Girls!: 

FTD Vinyl is please to announce the release of “Girls! Girls! Girls!', a limited edition on 180- Gr. vinyl. The design is inspired by the original European RCA Victor ‘60s release.

The album contains masters and alternative versions of several songs from the soundtrack sessions as recorded on March 26-28, 1962 at Radio Recorders, Hollywood. 

The songs 'Plantation Rock' and 'Dainty Little Moonbeams / Girls! Girls! Girls!' (End Title) are here in their rightful place at last!

Side A: Return To Sender - Because Of Love - I Don’t Wanna Be Tied (Movie Version - Take 8 & Take 10 Intro) - Where Do You Come From (Take 13) - Mama - We’ll Be Together - A Boy Like Me, A Girl Like You (Take 1, 2) -  Mama (Instrumental)

Side B: Girls! Girls! Girls! - The Walls Have Ears - Earth Boy (Movie Version - Splice Of Take 2 & 4) - Thanks To The Rolling Sea (Take 3) - Where Do You Come From - Song Of The Shrimp - We’re Coming In Loaded - Mama (1970 "Let’s Be Friends"-Album Version)

Side C: A Boy Like Me, A Girl Like You - I Don’t Wanna Be Tied - Earth Boy - Plantation Rock - Thanks To The Rolling Sea (Take 10) - Mama (Take 1, 2, 3, 4) - I Don’t Want To - We’ll Be Together (Take 8, 10)

Side D: Thanks To The Rolling Sea - Mama (The Amigos) - A Boy Like Me, A Girl Like You (Take 3. 4) - Plantation Rock (Take 17 & Insert) - Mama (Take  5 - 8) - Mama (Take 9) - End Title: Dainty Little Moonbeams / Girls! Girls! Girls!

FTD Re-issues

The FTD label also announced that many vinyl-titles will be reissued in August 2021:

• FTD 307 - Stay Away Joe
• FTD 314 - Today
• FTD 315 - Speedway
• FTD 317 - Roustabout
• FTD 318 - Fool
• FTD 319 - The Last Movies
• FTD 320 - Jailhouse Rock Vol. 2
• FTD 321 - Café Europa
• FTD 322 - Kissin' Cousins
• FTD 323 - Elvis Sings Memphis Tennessee
• FTD 325 - Tickle Me
• FTD 326 - Easy Come, Easy Go

Dedicated Elvis Channel

Cinedigm and Elvis Presley Enterprises said today they’re partnering to launch an exclusive ad-supported and linear streaming service, 'The Elvis Presley Channel' with archival content, specials, and music from other influential rockers.

It’s expected to launch early in 2022 in the U.S. and Canada for linear and AVOD platforms on connected TVs, digital set-top boxes, media-streaming devices and the web. Cinedigm plans to distribute the programming across the broader OTT landscape through its network of distribution partners including Samsung, Pluto, Roku, Hulu, Amazon and Tubi.

“There are few individuals more iconic than Elvis Presley, he transcends time, genre and medium,” said Erick Opeka, President of Cinedigm Digital Networks. “The opportunity to build a branded channel around Elvis opens up streaming possibilities to an entirely new demographic in the fastest-growing segment of the ad-supported business. The channel will allow a whole new audience to experience Elvis, while also giving his fans a more in-depth look at their idol.”

“The Elvis fandom is incredibly passionate,” said Marc Rosen, president, Entertainment, Authentic Brands Group, which owns Elvis Presley Enterprises.

Cinedigm plans to feature continual Elvis programming with exclusive footage from the Graceland archives, specials and documentaries including Singer Presents…Elvis (the ’68 Comeback Special), Elvis Aloha from Hawaii Via Satellite and Elvis by the Presleys. The channel will also tap into the archives of Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison and others and highlight iconic locations like Memphis that helped shape rock ‘n’ roll, as well as general music documentaries.

New Colored Vinyl

The Danish Memphis Mansion released a lime, red and green marble colored edition of their 'King Creole Vol. 3' EP. All colors limited to 100 copies each.

(Source: FTD / FECC / Deadline / Sabine Vindahl Andersen for Memphis Mansion / Elvis Information Network / UEPS)

June 29 - The Rhythm and Blues Album

The Miracle Surface record label announced the release of the alternate takes compilation CD 'The Rhythm and Blues Album' with August 2021 as the release date.

Tracks: Tomorrow Night (Complete Master -- Recorded August 19, 1954 Sun Studio - Memphis, Tennessee) / Little Mama (Live - Likely Recorded At The Louisiana Hayride, Shreveport, Louisiana, March 5, 1955) / Milcow Blues Boogie (Longer Fade - Recorded December 1954 Sun Studio - Memphis, Tennessee) / When It Rains, It Really Pours (Sun Master - November 20 Or 21, 1955 Sun Studio - Memphis, Tennessee) / My Baby Left Me (Longer Fade - January 30, 1956 RCA Studio's - New York) /  Anyplace Is Paradise (Master - September 2, 1956 Radio Recorders - Hollywood, California) / A Mess O' Blues (Take 1 - March 21, 1960 RCA Studio B - Nashville, Tennessee) / Such A Night (Take 4 - April 4, 1960 RCA Studio B - Nashville, Tennessee) / I Feel So Bad (Take 1 - March 12, 1961 RCA Studio B - Nashville, Tennessee) / Ain't That Loving You Baby (Alternate Take - June 10, 1958 RCA Studio B - Nashville, Tennessee) / Mean Woman Blues (Complete Master - January 21, 1957 Paramount Sound Stage - Hollywood, California) / Tell Me Why (Master - January 12, 1957 Radio Recorders - Hollywood, California) / It Feels So Right (Take 3 - March 21, 1960 RCA Studio B - Nashville, Tennessee) / Reconsider Baby (Master - April 4, 1960 RCA Studio B - Nashville, Tennessee) / Beach Boy Blues (Take 1 - March 23, 1961 Radio Recorders - Hollywood, California) / So Glad You're Mine (Master - January 30, 1956 RCA Studio's - New York) / I Need You So (Master - February 23, 1957 Radio Recorders - Hollywood, California) / Got A Lot O' Livin' To Do (Slow Version - January 16, 1957 Paramount Sound Studio).

Agent King

Netflix finally added a page for 'Agent King' to their platform, but unfortunately it doesn't give any details yet. It is the first appearance
of the new series since it was announced in 2019. Hopefully the series will be available soon.

Elvis And Friends

The Laser Meda label announced the released of the double CD 'Elvis and Friends' on August 28, 2021. 

The first CD is a an Elvis oldies compilation, the second CD a compilation of early Rock and Roll classics. 

CD 1 - Elvis Presley:

Hound Dog - Shake, Rattle And Roll - Money Honey - Ready Teddy - That's All Right Mama - Don't Be Cruel - Blue Suede Shoes - I'm Left, You're Right, She's Gone - Long Tall Sally - Baby Let's Play House - I Don't Care If The Sun Don't Shine - Heartbreak Hotel - So Glad You're Mine - Milk Cow Boogie Blues - Blue Moon Of Kentucky - I Got A Woman - When My Blue Moon Turns To Gold Again - Paralyzed.

CD 2 - Johnny B Good (Chuck Berry) - Be-Bop-A-Lula (Gene Vincent) - Rock Around The Clock (Bill Haley) - Great Balls Of Fire (Jerry Lee Lewis) - Tutti Frutti (Little Richard) - Blue Suede Shoes (Carl Perkins) - Let's Twist Again (Chubby Checker) - Rip It Up (Bill Haley) - Splish Splash (Bobby Darin) - Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On (Jerry Lee Lewis) - Roll Over Beethoven (Chuck Berry) - Speedy Gonzales (Pat Boone) - I'm Ready (Fats Domino) - Good Golly Miss Molly (Little Richard) - Reet Petite (Jackie Wilson) - Please Please Pleas (James Brown & The Famous Flames) - See You Later Alligator (Bill Haley & The Comets) - Wake Up Little Susie (The Everly Brothers) - Rock And Roll Is Here To Stay (Danny & The Juniors) - La Bamba (Ritchie Valens) - I'm A Man (Bo Diddley) - Blueberry Hill (Fats Domino) - Hit The Road Jack (Ray Charles) - Rocket 88 (Jackie Brenston) - Shakin' All Over (Johnny Kidd & The Pirates) - Roll 'em Pete (Pete Johnson With Big Joe Turner) - Sombrero (The Champs) - Baby Face (Little Richad) - Stand By Me (Ben E. King) - Only The Lonely (Roy Orbison) - The Wonder Of You (Ray Peterson) - Smoke Gets In Your Eyes (The Platters).

Coco Palms Resort To Be Demolished

One of Hawaii’s most iconic resorts that once welcomed Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra, among other stars, is set to be demolished after nearly 30 years of abandonment. 

Known as the Coco Palms Resort, it first opened in 1953 and shortly thereafter became very popular in the Hollywood community. Several movies were filmed at the resort, including the Presley musical rom-com “Blue Hawaii.” 

Located in Wailuā, the structure was built in the middle of a coconut grove that was planted in 1896 on an ancient site of Hawaiian royalty, according to Jam Press. Many locals consider the land of historical significance. 

In 1992, Coco Palms - which sat on nearly 20 acres - was destroyed by Hurricane Iniki, a Category 4 storm, and has since remained neglected. 

Star Of The Month

The King of Rock 'n' Roll reigns over Thursday nights on US Turner Classic Movies as the network's Star of the Month in July. 

Each week, starting tonight, tune in to see Elvis Presley acting, singing, dancing and romancing in an evening of his films that are grouped together by a certain theme (see lineup below). Most of the featured movies are titles featuring Elvis in acting roles, largely in the musical comedies for which he is best remembered, but there is also the occasional drama or musical drama. including the only movie in which the legend does not sing.

A few concert films capturing the King's performances are also on hand during the month.

(Source: Miracle Surface / FECC / Elvis Club Berlin / NY Post / Elvis Information Network)

June 28 - Mama's Little Prince in Trouble?

Mårten Melin published the Swedish children's book 'Mammas Lilla Prins' ('Mama's Little Prince'), a novel about Elvis' childhood.

Synopsis:

Tupelo, Mississippi, 1945. Elvis is ten years old and loves to sing. His mother encourages and believes in him, but at the same time she wants to protect him from all evil. They have been very close since Elvis' twin brother died.

At school, Elvis is pretty lonely. He gets teased for being a mama's boy and for bursting into song as soon as he gets the chance. But there is a girl in the class who likes to hear him sing. Her name is Eloise. To her, Elvis dares to tell about his secret dream: that he one day will sing in front of thousands of people.

In Mamma's Little Prince, Mårten Melin shows evidence of a new side when he in a tenderly portrayed portrait brings to life the childhood idol Elvis Presley. The boy, who before the breakthrough, lived in poor conditions in a city marked by class divisions and segregation. This is a story about school, exclusion and your firs loves. And above all: the love of music.

Preview available on the >>> Elvis Today blog.

Book available from >>> Bokus Shop.

Are You Looking For Trouble?

Erik Lorenzen stated that his upcoming 'On Tour' trilogy would contain "the complete and very extensive information of all shows and sessions", this would be "unique in this 1200 page edition". 

Now Ernst Jørgensen reacted and stated that his personal session notes are being used without permission:

"It has come to my attention that some of my personal recording notes are being used in Erik Lorentzen’s forthcoming Elvis On Tour book.

This is disappointing; as Erik has been notified that this information is private and confidential, and prior to publication permission is required, which has not been granted.

Pål, David and myself are working on an 'Elvis On Tour' FTD release for 2022, this information will be included with this release."

This troubles fans to, having to decide which 'On Tour' set to buy. The KJ Consulting book-trilogy, due July 2021, of the Follow That Dream book / CD set which is due 2022.

(Source: Thomas Melin - Elvis Today Blog / Elvis Information Network / David English on FECC)

June 27 - Texas Heritage Songwriters’ Association Hall of Fame

The Texas Heritage Songwriters’ Association (Texas Songwriters) announced that Mark James is among the 2022 Hall of Fame class of inductees. Other inductees are Lefty Frizzell, Nanci Griffith, and Lightnin’ Hopkins.

Synopsis:

Mark James is an American songwriter who has written hits for singers B.J. Thomas, Brenda Lee, and Elvis Presley, including Thomas’ “Hooked On A Feeling,” and Presley's last US number one hit single, "Suspicious Minds." A native of Houston, James' greatest success came with "Always on My Mind," a collaboration that won a Grammy for both Song of the Year and Best Country Song with Willie Nelson's version cut nearly a decade later. In 2015, James was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Jim Murray Hospitalized

Elvis' former backing singer Jim Murray suffered a from a stroke and was hospitalized. He is already doing better.

Get well soon Jim!

(Source: Texas Heritage Songwriters’ Association Hall of Fame / Brenda Nielsen Murray)

June 26 - Elvis Racism Video

The Elvis News Report posted an interesting video on Quincy Jones' recent "Elvis was a racist" claim, setting the record straight for our man.

Years Ago

Today June 26, 2021, marks the day that, 112 years ago, Andreas (Dries) van Kuijk a.k.a. The Colonel, was born in Breda (The netherlands). He grew up in Breda and emigrated to America as a 19-year-old. 

There Dries changed his name to Colonel Thomas A. Parker and became world famous as manager of Elvis Presley. He never returned to Breda and died in Las Vegas in 1997 at the age of 87.

Today also marks the date of the first night Elvis slept at his Graceland mansion, his last concert performance in Indianapolis, 44 years ago and finally, this date in 1979 marked the day that Elvis' father, Vernon, passed away. 

(Source: Elvis News Report / ElvisMatters / Facebook / UEPS)

June 26 - Charts June 2020 - Week 4

The weekly global Elvis Presley chart update. The 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' compilations seems to have made a definitieve return on the charts, surpassing 'The Essential Elvis Presley' CD. The CD jumped 31 up on the Scottish Album chart this week. 

U.S. Billboard charts:

• Billboard Top Christian Album chart: 'Elvis: Ultimate Gospel' dropped from #39 to #44.
• Billboard Top Country Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' climbed from #36 to #34.

Official U.K. charts:

• Official Album Top 100 chart: 'The 50 Greatest Hits' dropped from #60 to #67. 
• Official Streaming Album Top 100 chart: 'The 50 Greatest Hits' climbed from #50 to #48. 
• Official Country Compilations chart: 'From Elvis In Nashville' climbed from #9 to #6. 
• Official Music DVD chart: 'Elvis at the Movies' makes a re-entry at #46.
• Official Music DVD chart: 'Elvis The Searcher' dropped from #35 to #50.

Official Scottish charts:

• Official Album Top 100: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' climbed from #69 to #38.

(Source: Official Chart Company / UK Mix Forum)

June 25 - Los Aviones y El Rey

Carlos Varrenti published his book 'Los Aviones y El Rey' ('The Planes and The King'). The 198-page Spanish hardcover book documents Elvis' link to planes, including his own airplanes like the Lisa Marie and Hound Dog II'. 

Mr. Vanetti is currently working on an English translation due for late 2021.

Synopsis:

As an Aeronautical Engineer, and a big fan of Elvis Presley, I always wanted to write a book about The King and his airplanes. Ever since my very first visit in Graceland, back in 2001, I've been extremely intrigued by Elvis' history with his own airplanes, and his link to aeronautics in general. 

His impressive airplanes, exhibited at Graceland as testimonies his stardom, made me realize that there was a story to be told. And boy, what a great story it was!

This is how, for several years, every little detail, every short paragraph in a book, every short video, every photograph, every little note or information related to Elvis and his airplanes was marked and added to my personal archive. After a few years I had enough material to write the story behind The king and his planes, combining my two passions. 

This book is written for fans of Elvis, people interested in planes and aeronautics in general. Fans who want to know more about Elvis' bond with his airplanes, or in-depth details behind the hidden and enigmatic aeronautical facets of Elvis Presley and his planes. 

The book is available through Carlos R. Ares Argentinian Elvis Shop: Elvis.shop@gmail.com

More information at >>> Carlos Varrrenti's website.

(Source: Carlos Varrenti)

June 22 - It Happened on Blu-ray

Warner Bros. has released Elvis' 1963 musical comedy 'It Happened at the World's Fair' on Blu-ray in their Warner Archive Collection. 

It comes with DTS-HD Master Audio English 2.0 Mono audio and song selection. As a bonus it featured the original trailer.

Synopsis: Fun, music and Elvis all happen in this romp boasting one of the best backdrops of any Elvis Presley movie: the 1962 Seattle World’s Fair. The King plays pilot-for-hire Mike, whose hope of starting his own flying business is grounded by the gambling of his copilot Danny (Gary Lockwood). The two hitch to Seattle, where Mike finds romance, Danny finds easy marks and both find problems prior to a “Happy Ending.” Keep an eye out for Kurt Russell as the child who wallops Mike in the shins.

(Source: FECC / Amazon)

June 21 - Flashy Star

Volume 2 of the revamped Elvis Unlimited magazine comes with a yellow flexi-disc containing a different mix of the master of 'Flaming Star' from the movie with the same title.

You can subscribe on the >>> Memphis Mansion website. 

You Know, My Bass Man Is Bound To Die

The Ampex import-label released the double CD set 'You Know, My Bass Man Is Bound To Die' containing the pre-acts from the March 19, 1975 Dinner Show and as the main event the March 24, 1975 Dinner Show performance. 

Covid

James Burton and his wife Louise were hit by Covid-19 recently, but they recovered and should be up and running again. 

(Source: Anthony Stuchbury / The Elvis Shop London / UEPS)

June 19 - Charts June 2020 - Week 3

The weekly global Elvis Presley chart update. Again little movement on the U.S. and U.K. charts this week. Elvis does make a re-appearance on the Scottish Album chart with 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' compilation.  

U.S. Billboard chart:

• Billboard Top Christian Album chart: 'Elvis: Ultimate Gospel' climbed from #49 to #39.
• Billboard Top Rock Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' dropped from #46 to #50.
• Billboard Top Country Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' remained steady at #36.

Official U.K. charts: 

• Official Album Top 100 chart: 'The 50 greatest Hits' dropped from #57 to #60.
• Official Streaming Album Top 100 chart: 'The 50 greatest Hits' dropped from #43 to #50.
• Official Country Compilations chart: 'From Elvis In Nashville' climbed from #13 to #9.
• Official Music DVD charts: 'ElvisThe Searcher' dropped from #20 to #35.

Official Scottish charts:

• Official Scottish Album Top 100 chart: 'ELV1S 30#1 Hits' re-entry at #69.

(Source: Official Charts / U.K. Mix Forum)

June 17 - Le Rock du Eastern Europe

The book ‘Elvis Presley - Le Rock du Bagne’ was released in the Rock ‘n’ Soul collection.by GM Editions. The set contains an 80-page illustrated book by Gardinier and Alain and the movie ‘Jailhouse Rock’ on DVD. 

Eastern European Discography

Just released is the 160-page hardcover book 'Vinyl Discography From Eastern Europe' . 

This self published book covers releases from Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechoslovakia, German Democratic Republic, Hungary and Russia, showing the covers and label - including variations - promo's and basic information. 430 color and black and white pictures, including a 15 x 21 cm bonus picture 

Part two of the Eastern Europe discography, covering albums from countries like albums from Poland, The Soviet Union, Romania and Yugoslavia, is set for release at the end of the year.

(Source: Amazon  / Facebook)

June 16 - Elvis Stories from the Houston Astrodome

Announced on Facebook is a new box-set 'Elvis at the Astrodome', featuring all six of Elvis' 1970 Livestock shows at the Houston Atrodome in Texas. 

It looks like the same format as the 'Stage Power' box-sets from the Tupelo Productions record label. 

The Elvis Story

Just released is 'The Elvis Story Pts 1-4'. 

From the press release:

This amazing 13 hour documentary is based on 3 years of intense work by author Jerry Hopkins. Mr Hopkins book 'Elvis - A Biography' has been appointed as the ultimate book about Elvis's life. 

This radio special was broadcasted in over 250 major U.S. cities and the rest of the world and was first published as vinyl boxset containing 13 discs and one 10-cassette-tape box.Both releases are ultra rare today!

Now for the first time it's released on nothing less than 15 CDs spread over 4 boxes Here you get an absolutely amazing opportunity for an even deeper and intimate insight into Elvis Presley's life. 

The first box contains the first 4 chapters: 'The Early Years', 'The Sun Records', 'Presleymania' and 'Presleymania part II'. 

The host on this documentary is Wink Martindale. He was initially elected as he is a skilled "storyteller", but it turns out that Wink hosted WHBQ in Memphis when Elvis first recorded in 1954 and has interviewed Elvis on several occasions for both radio and television. Several interviews were included in this series, next to a lot of other rare ones.

The other 3 Volumes in this series will be Issued at 2 monthly intervals.

(Source: facebook / The Elvis Shop / Memphis Mansion)

June 14 - Elvis The Last King

The book 'Elvis The Last King' by Michele de Pippo has been released. The official presentation of this book, limited to 100 copies - is set for July 24th 2021. 

Description: The book cover the author's life in Elvis' world from 1965 to 2020, with photographs, testimonies and stories from over 50 years of passion and running his own Elvis fan club from 1982 to  1986.

The second part of the book there are some pages written by Nicla Crippa with photos dedicated to the story of their trip with Livio Monari to Las Vegas in August 1972 and their two meetings with Elvis. Another part of the book is written by Jean Marc Gargiulo who met Elvis in Las Vegas in 1969 and 1973. Finally, there are other stories by fans of the King.

Elvis Recorded Live at the Fontainebleau

The 'Elvis Recorded Live at the Fontainebleau' DVD has been released by the Danish Memphis Mansion. It contains the Frank Sinatra Timex Show with improved sound from the recently found acetate. The show was recorded March 26th 1960 and debuted on TV on May 12th 1960. 

The cover is double sided featuring two different designs.

Available at the >>> Memphis Mansion. 

(Source: Facebook / Anthony Stuchbury / Memphis Mansion)

June 12 - On Powerhouse Tour DVD-Set?

After the announcement by David English on the 2022 Follow That Dream 'Elvis On Tour' release Erik Lorentzen made the following statement raging his upcoming 'Elvis On Tour' trilogy book set. 

"In respons to all questions we have received, we are now proud to announce that 1,200 pages is done and ready to be sent to the printer. 

These books will contain about 5-600 unseen and unpublished photos and lots of informations.

We therefore want to thank all of you out there who have contributed with photos, clippings, documents and reviews to make this 3 books box-set so special and keep Elvis' legacy alive.

We, where close to get permission to include an awesome DVD-set but we still are working on to get one. So, maybe we are able to release one or two later this year. 

Cross fingers, time will tell.

Thank you, thank you, Erik"

Elvis UK Flipbook

Following the release of 'Elvis UK3 The Ultimate Guide To Elvis Presley’s British CD Releases 1983-2005' as a Flip-book in February 2021, co-authors John Townson and Gordon Minto announced that their long out-of-print 'Elvis UK' book from 1987 will be available available using the same digital technology as the recent 'Elvis UK 3' book, with an additional 60 pages of ‘bonus material’. 

From the press release:

Our prime reason for making this book available is due to the constant requests for hard copies as it went out of print in the late 1980s. Unfortunately, a physical reprint was not an option, owing to extremely high production costs – just as it wasn’t for Elvis UK3. 

However, unlike the latter project - which we wanted to be able to update when required – Elvis UK will be available as a download. The document will not be held on a digital platform and accessed via the internet, but will be available on the buyer’s own device. 

Importantly though, the original book appears exactly as it was in 1987 as it has not been possible to make any textual amendments as the book did not exist in a digital form. 

The original Elvis UK was a 565 page hard-backed reference book, published by Blandford Press, dealing with the then hitherto largely unexplored subject of Elvis Presley’s UK record releases from March 1956 through to 1986, nine years after Presley’s death. The digital copy of Elvis UK features:

• Every individual record release - singles, EPs (Extended Play releases) and LPs issued on HMV, RCA and third party labels between 1956-86 - in great detail and in chronological order 
• Each entry included detailed track information as well as writers’ names, release dates, and chart entry positions 
• Every release and re-release carefully cross-referenced 
• Label and sleeve variations identified and dated
• Introductory sections which include background to the issuing companies, comprehensive information about details printed on labels and the process of how records were made 
• Chronological and alphabetical listings of all main sections, including catalogue numbers details and release dates 
• A various artist section dealt with releases which featured one or more Elvis tracks
• A section detailing promotional records 
• Hundreds of illustrations 
• An Interview and spoken word index
• A full list of every song showing where it appeared, cross-referenced with page numbers

Plus - 60 pages of bonus material - which includes the following: 

• The Making Of Elvis UK
• Golden Grooves
• Mastering
• LP Re-issues

Fortunately, in tranferring Elvis UK into the Flip format none of the original search features have been lost. On the contrary, the comprehensive contents and indexing system built in to the original book has been accentuated by the highly intuitive navigational features offered by Flip.  Searching is much easier and quicker. 

In our view, this move represents the only sensible and cost-effective way of making this valuable and much-sought after reference work available to a much wider audience – but at the reasonable and affordable price.  The download version of Elvis UK, complete with 60 pages of bonus material section costs just £20.  

More about this release (and others in the series) and how to order it can be found on the author's website >>> Elvis UK Books website.

On Tour Continued

Due for release from the Golden Globe import-label is the 2-LP / 1 CD set 'On Tour 10th April 1972'.

From the press release: 

Golden Globe Records presents their second deluxe 2LP set containing the fantastic April 10 1972 show recorded in Richmond, Virginia. In total 4 shows were recorded for the Golden Globe winning motion picture “Elvis On Tour”. The Richmond show is the second show that was recorded for the award winning documentary and is also the second one issued in this Elvis On Tour Series. 

This is the very first proper high quality outing of this show on vinyl. Presented in a beautiful Deluxe gate-fold cover containing 2 high quality 180 grams colored vinyl albums. A CD version is also added to this package. This very limited edition is available in red or blue vinyl. 

Side A: 01 Also Sprach Zarathustra (Richard Strauss) 02 See See Rider (Traditional) 03 Proud Mary (John C. Fogerty) 04 Never Been To Spain (Hoyt Axton) 05 You Gave Me A Mountain (Marty Robbins) 06 Until It’s Time For You To Go (Buffy Saint-Marie) 

Side B: B 01 Polk Salad Annie (Tony Joe White) 02 Love Me (Leiber/Stoller) 03 All Shook Up (Otis Blackwell/E. Presley) 04 Teddy Bear / Don’t Be Cruel (Kal Mann/Bernie Lowe) / (Otis Blackwell) 05 Heartbreak Hotel (Axton/Durden/Presley) 06 Hound Dog (Leiber/Stoller) 07 Bridge Over Troubled Water (Paul Simon) 

Side C: 01 Love Me Tender (Vera Matson/E. Presley) 02 It’s Over 03 Suspicious Minds (Mark James) 04 Introductions By Elvis 05 For The Good Times (Kris Kristofferson) 06 I Can’t Stop Loving You (Don Gibson) 

Side D: 01 An American Trilogy (Mickey Newbury) 02 Lawdy, Miss Clawdy (Lloyd Price) 03 Funny How Time Slips Away (Willie Nelson) 04 Can’t Help Falling In Love (Peretti/Creatore/Weiss) 05 Closing Vamp Bonus Tracks Rehearsal April 5, 1972 Memorial Auditorium, Buffalo, New York 06 Instrumental # 1 - Burning Love 07 Cattle Call 08 You Gave Me A Mountain 

Tracks CD: 01 Also Sprach Zarathustra 02 See See Rider 03 Proud Mary 04 Never Been To Spain 05 You Gave Me A Mountain 06 Until It’s Time For You To Go 07 Polk Salad Annie 08 Love Me 09 All Shook Up 10 Teddy Bear / Don’t Be Cruel 11 Heartbreak Hotel 12 Hound Dog 13 Bridge Over Troubled Water 14 Love Me Tender 15 It’s Over 16 Suspicious Minds 17 Introductions By Elvis 18 For The Good Times 19 I Can’t Stop Loving You 20 An American Trilogy 21 Lawdy, Miss Clawdy 22 Funny How Time Slips Away 23 Can’t Help Falling In Love 24 Closing Vamp Bonus Tracks Rehearsal April 5, 1972 Memorial Auditorium, Buffalo, New York 25 Instrumental # 1 - Burning Love 26 Cattle Call 27 You Gave Me A Mountain.

A Powerhouse Performance Continued

Just released is 'A Powerhouse Performance Continued', a limited edition deluxe 3-LP and 5 CD set that will be available on orange and on white vinyl. 

Out now on the newly found now entertainment label is the second beautiful Ultra Limited Edition boxset containing 3 powerhouse performances on vinyl and 5 on CD!

The first shows from this august engagement were shot by MGM for the legendary ‘Elvis: That’s The Way It Is’ motion picture, and recorded by the record company for the release of the soundtrack. The recordings featured here were recorded right after the MGM and RCA crews had left.  This box-set contains the following shows 

On vinyl:

August 20, 1970 Midnight Show

August 21, 1970 Dinner Show

August 21, 1970 Midnight Show

On CD:

August 20, 1970 Midnight Show

August 21, 1970 Dinner Show

August 21, 1970 Midnight Show

August 23, 1970 Dinner Show

August 24, 1970 Dinner Show

All shows are remastered and speed corrected and never sounded better than now. The set comes on 180 Gr. orange or white colored vinyl, housed in a sturdy box-set with high-quality record sleeves.

LP 1: Sweet Inspiration August 20, 1970 Midnight Show Showroom, International Hotel, Las Vegas (Nv) 

Side A 01 Orchestra Intro - Opening Vamp 02 That’s All Right 03 I Got A Woman - Ave Maria 04 Tiger Man 05 Monologue 06 Love Me Tender (Incl. False Start) 07 I’ve Lost You 08 Sweet Caroline 09 You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’ 

Side B 01 Polk Salad Annie 02 Introduction Of The Sweet Inspirations 03 Sweet Inspiration 04 Johnny B. Goode James Burton Introduction 05 Introductions 06 The Wonder Of You 07 Heartbreak Hotel 08 Blue Suede Shoes 09 Hound Dog (Incl. False Starts) 10 More 11 Bridge Over Troubled Water 12 Suspicious Minds 13 Can’t Help Falling In Love 14 Closing Vamp 

LP 2: Sweet Caroline August 21, 1970 Dinner Show Showroom, International Hotel, Las Vegas (Nv) 

Side A 01 Opening Vamp 02 That’s All Right 03 I Got A Woman 04 Tiger Man 05 I Just Can’t Help Believin’ 06 Sweet Caroline 07 You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’ 08 Polk Salad Annie 09 Johnny B. Goode James Burton Introduction 

Side B 01 Happy Birthday James Burton 02 Introduction Of Neil Diamond Holly Holy Introduction Of Minnie Mae 03 The Wonder Of You 04 Heartbreak Hotel (Incl. False Starts) 05 One Night 06 All Shook Up - Blue Suede Shoes Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On 07 Hound Dog (Incl. False Starts) 08 Bridge Over Troubled Water 09 Suspicious Minds 10 Can’t Help Falling In Love 11 Closing Vamp 

LP 3: Cryin' Time August 21, 1970 Midnight Show Showroom, International Hotel, Las Vegas (Nv) 

Side A 01 Opening Vamp 02 That’s All Right 03 I Got A Woman - Ave Maria 04 Tiger Man 05  Monologue 06 Love Me Tender (Inc. False Start) 07 I’ve Lost You 08 Cryin’ Time 09 I Just Can’t Help Believin’ 10 You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’ 

Side B: 01 Polk Salad Annie 02 Johnny B. Goode James Burton Introduction 03 The Wonder Of You Along Came Jones 04 Heartbreak Hotel (Incl. False Starts) 05 One Night 06 All Shook Up - Blue Suede Shoes Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On 07 Hound Dog (Incl. False Starts) 08 Bridge Over Troubled Water 09 Suspicious Minds 10 Can’t Help Falling In Love 11 Closing Vamp 

CD 1 - Sweet Inspiration August 20, 1970 Midnight Show Showroom, International Hotel, Las Vegas (Nv):

01 Orchestra Intro - Opening Vamp 02 That’s All Right 03 I Got A Woman - Ave Maria 04 Tiger Man 05 Monologue 06 Love Me Tender (Incl. False Start) 07 I’ve Lost You 08 Sweet Caroline 09 You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’ 10 Polk Salad Annie 11 Introduction Of The Sweet Inspirations 12 Sweet Inspiration 13 Introductions 14 Johnny B. Goode James Burton Introduction 15 Introductions 16 The Wonder Of You 17 Heartbreak Hotel 18 Blue Suede Shoes 19 Hound Dog (Incl. False Starts) 20 More 21 Bridge Over Troubled Water 22 Suspicious Minds 23 Can’t Help Falling In Love 24 Closing Vamp 

CD 2 - Sweet Caroline August 21, 1970 Dinner Show Showroom, International Hotel, Las Vegas (Nv):

 01 Opening Vamp 02 That’s All Right 03 I Got A Woman 04 Tiger Man 05 Monologue 06 Love Me Tender (Incl. False Start) 07 I Just Can’t Help Believin’ 08 Sweet Caroline 09 You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’ 10 Polk Salad Annie 11 Introductions 12 Johnny B. Goode James Burton Introduction 13 Happy Birthday James Burton 14 Introductions 15 Introduction Of Neil Diamond Holly Holy Introduction Of Minnie Mae 16 The Wonder Of You 17 Heartbreak Hotel (Incl. False Starts) 18 One Night 19 All Shook Up - Blue Suede Shoes Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On 20 Hound Dog (Incl. False Starts) 21 Bridge Over Troubled Water 22 Suspicious Minds 23 Can’t Help Falling In Love 24 Closing Vamp 

CD 3 - Cryin' Time August 21, 1970 Midnight Show Showroom, International Hotel, Las Vegas (Nv): 

01 Opening Vamp 02 That’s All Right 03 I Got A Woman - Ave Maria 04 Tiger Man 05 Monologue 06 Love Me Tender (Inc. False Start) 07 I’ve Lost You 08 Cryin’ Time 09 I Just Can’t Help Believin’ 10  You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’ 11 Polk Salad Annie 12 Introductions 13 Johnny B. Goode James Burton Introduction 14 Introductions 15 The Wonder Of You Along Came Jones 16 Heartbreak Hotel (Incl. False Starts) 17 One Night 18 All Shook Up - Blue Suede Shoes Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On 19 Hound Dog (Incl. False Starts) 20 Bridge Over Troubled Water 21 Suspicious Minds 22 Can’t Help Falling In Love 23 Closing Vamp 

CD 4 - Tiger Man August 23, 1970 Dinner Show Showroom, International Hotel, Las Vegas (Nv):

 01 That’s All Right 02 I Got A Woman - Ave Maria 03 Monologue 04 Tiger Man 05 Monologue 06 Love Me Tender (Inc. False Start) 07 I’ve Lost You 08 I Just Can’t Help Believin’ 09 Elvis Dedicating The Show To Marie Parker 10  You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’ 11 Polk Salad Annie 12 Introductions 13 Johnny B. Goode James Burton Introduction 14 Introductions 15 The Wonder Of You 16 Heartbreak Hotel (Incl. False Starts) 17 One Night 18 All Shook Up - False Starts 19 Blue Suede Shoes Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On 20 Goofin’ Around With Hound Dog -Tape Damage- 21 Hound Dog 22 Bridge Over Troubled Water 23 Suspicious Minds 24 Can’t Help Falling In Love 

CD 5 - When The Snow Is On The Roses August 24, 1970 Dinner Show Showroom, International Hotel, Las Vegas (Nv): 

01 Orchestra Intro  02 That’s All Right 03 I Got A Woman - Ave Maria -Tape Damage- 04 Spanish Eyes 05 Tiger Man 06 I Just Can’t Help Believin’ 07 You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’ 08 Polk Salad Annie 09 Band Introductions 10 Johnny B. Goode James Burton Introduction 11 Introduction Of Celebrities 12 When The Snow Is On The Roses Ed Ames Introduction 13 The Wonder Of You 14 Heartbreak Hotel (Incl. False Starts) 15 One Night 16 All Shook Up 17 Blue Suede Shoes - Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On 18 Goofin’ Around With Hound Dog 19 Hound Dog 20 Bridge Over Troubled Water 21 Suspicious Minds 22 Release Me 23 Can’t Help Falling In Love

(Source: Erik Lorenzen / Elvis Shop London)

June 12 - Charts June 2021 - Week 2

The weekly global Elvis Presley chart update. Elvis makes a re-appearance on the Billboard Gospel album chart, but dropped slightly on all other U.S. charts. In the U.K. Elvis is listed three times on the Music DVD chart. 

Official U.S. Billboard charts:

• Billboard Christian Album chart: ''Elvis: Ultimate Gospel' re-entry #49.
• Billboard Top Rock Albums chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' dropped from #44 to #46.
• Billboard Top Country Albums chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' dropped from #34 to #36.

Official U.K. charts:

• Official Album Top 100 chart: 'The 50 Greatest Hits' remained steady at #57.
• Official Streaming Album Top 100 chart: 'The 50 Greatest Hits' dropped from #41 to #43.
• Official Country Compilations Album chart: 'From Elvis In Nashville' dropped from #9 to #13.
• Official Music DVD chart: 'Elvis The Searcher' climbed from #22 to #20.
• Official Music DVD chart: 'Elvis The King of Rock and Roll' re-entry #43.
• Official Music DVD chart: 'The Complete Story' re-entry #50.

(Source: Official Chart Company / UK Mix Forum)

June 11 - Review ‘Elvis November 1956’

As fans, we do not always realize that what we think we know about Elvis’ life, happened in short periods of time. Paul Belard’s visual biography series illustrates how hectic Elvis’ life and rise to fame was. 

The latest release in Paul Belard’s series of photobooks, covering just one month in 1956, highlights just how much happened.

By Nigel Patterson (Elvis Information Network) and Kees Mouwen (Elvis Day By Day).

 

Design

The book maintains the look and feel of previous volumes in the series. We wonder if the author ever thought of using another color – preferably white – as the page background for his books? A lighter color would improve the look of  the mainly black and white pictures. 

Overall, the quality of the images is good. In order to as fully as possible, visually record Elvis’ life story, Belard isn't shy in adding lesser quality pictures to show something new / different or colorized pictures (all identified as colorized).  

Many fans will appreciate that Belard adds the source and credits for all the content he collected and used. In this day and age, a lot is taken for granted. 

Content

This volume covers the month November in 1956. With his second album just out, Elvis spent the month on tour and on vacation. 

It was a busy time. Elvis spent time with his girlfriend Natalie Wood and buddy, Nick Adams on his new Harley Davidson. He did a small tour in the south with Scotty, DJ and Bill - taking some friends along with him - making stops in Toledo, Cleveland, Troy and Louisville, Kentucky. And he went on a 10-day holiday with Bitsy Mott, Gene Smith and Richard Dougher to Las Vegas, returning to the New Frontier Hotel. 

Meanwhile ‘Love Me Tender’ premiered and opened nationwide a few days later. Belard includes all the great images of those classic marquees with Elvis’ name up in lights and the many fans lining up to see their singing hero on the big screen. We did notice one error. On page 191, the photo is of the opening of ‘Loving You’ (not ‘Love Me Tender’) - Paul can blame his editor for not picking up the error!

As we expect with a Belard release, there are many great visuals.

Elvis looks almost Brandoesque (ala ‘The Wild One’) on his new Harley Davidson, and ultra-cool in a raincoat and sunglasses with Nick Adams at Lansky Brothers. Nice to see how Lansky proudly shows the gold colored jacked Elvis wore on the tour. This is the beauty of these kind of books, they shows Elvis preparing for a show, traveling, on stage, and offstage relaxing. 

While on holiday, Elvis did what all visitors to Vegas do, visit shows. We see him with the ‘Female Elvis’ Alis Lesley backstage at the Silver Slipper Casino (a 20 page spread including several proof-sheets), on and back stage with Liberace teaming up for an "impromptu act” and with other performers. 

Other visual highlights are:

• A stunning b&w image (p100) of an open-mouthed Elvis live on stage, on tiptoes, legs bent, with his left hand pressed against his left eye (the image is presented colorized a few pages later).
• Seemingly missing his left arm and putting out his back (p102).
• An unusually lit image of an unusual looking Elvis in bowtie with an unknown woman and man (p122).
• Screaming fans except for one who looks as though she has been possessed (p129). Coincidentally, on p126 there is a photo of Elvis looking as though he has been possessed.
• Heavy police presence during his show in Troy, Ohio (p176).
• Elvis being escorted by police through the crowd at the E.H. Crump Memorial Football Game in Memphis (p199).

The beauty of these books is that Belard finds some great original archival material that complement the historical context of the images. 

RCA’s marketing, some would say ‘over the top’ marketing, of Elvis, was also well on display in November 1956. Belard includes an RCA flyer which promotes 15 Elvis singles, 5 Elvis EP’s and Elvis’ new LP. 

The 'Perfect for Parties’ EP is highlights how RCA Victor used their newest star's fame to promote other artists and make more money.

RCA Victor also released a signature Elvis Presley record player. 

Reading the memoirs from actress Mamie Van Doren, she had a steamy evening with Elvis. But we can’t help thinking that over the years these memories get better and hotter, but who can blame her. 

Looking at the images of the - mainly female fans - and the effect Elvis had on them, we have to have some sympathy for the parents, boyfriends and husbands. 

A press article, Fight Over Elvis Presley includes this fun quote: 

"This guy walks up to me and says "you ..., ..., my wife carries a picture of you in her wallet, but doesn't carry one of me. Let's step outside." According to the police Elvis was getting the best of the battle when they arrived ... 

We have selected just a few of the events in Elvis November 1956 that add to the illustrious Elvis Presley story. Looking at everything that happened, day after day, with Elvis as the one that had to deliver it all, shows the pressure he was under – with part of the public opinion turned against him - straight from the start of his career. 

Conclusion

Paul Belard’s photo record books of the Elvis story are a good companion to the Day-by-Day books by Guralnick and Jorgensen and Lee Cotten. The latter books set the Elvis timeline, with Belard illustrating another month through pictures, news-clippings, advertisements, and moreWith 18 volumes already published in his series, and the 1950s not yet fully covered, it is staggering to think how many volumes Belard will end up releasing.

The book ‘Elvis November 1956’ can be ordered directly from the author (pbelard@hotmail.com) or from >>> Amazon.

June 11 - Love Me Tender In Vegas

The Follow That Dream May / June 2021 releases have been released. The 5-inch double CD 'Elvis: las Vegas 1973' contains the August 20th 1973 Midnight Show and September 2nd Midnight Show performances. 

The book 'Love Me Tender - Through The Lens Of Robert Vose' by Pål Granlund and David English contains newly discovered photographs by Robert Vose , the majority of them unseen and unpublished since September 1956. They reveal reveal life on the movie set with Director Robert D. Webb, his cast and crew. 

Accompanying the book are two CDs. Disc 1 contains the original EP, outtakes, stereo masters and 'The Truth About Me' interview. Disc 2 contains the 13 recordings made at Radio Recorders between September 1-3, 1956. 

 L'uomo Dietro Al Mito

The 384-page Italian book 'Elvis Aaron Presley. L'uomo Dietro Al Mito' by Antonella Santovincenzo di Colleferro was released. 

Synopsis:

"When Elvis smiled, the sun started to shine" according to Joe Esposito. One of the last smiles we saw from Elvis was during the performance of 'Unchained Melody' on June 21, 1977. The smile of a tired and suffering man, still capable, however, of creating indissoluble bonds in space and time. This inspired the author to delve deeper into Elvis as a man, beyond the myth, drawing an extremely private, almost intimate portrait of him. 

Retracing the places where the artist lived, and visited by the author, the book manages to probe all the character aspects of Elvis: loneliness, generosity, insecurity, versatility, moods, charisma, intelligence, ambition, aesthetic sense, talent, patriotism and spirituality. 

The second part of the book is dedicated to the traveling exhibition curated by the author, in collaboration with other Presley admirers, aimed at discovering the private Elvis, his passions, the relationship with his mother and family of origin.

From Memphis To Vegas Vinyl

Also shipped to dealers is are the Memphis Recording Service LPs 'Las Vegas International Presents Elvis – August 1969' (single LP) and 'Las Vegas International Presents Elvis – January Thru February 1970' (2-LP in gate-fold sleeve). Both titles come on black and on clear vinyl. 

The double LP contains Elvis’ second engagement at the Las Vegas International Hotel in January and February 1970 while the single LP holds 

the earliest known performance from Elvis’ first engagement at the Las Vegas International Hotel in August 1969.

French Record Store Day Vinyl

The Record Store Day release 'Elvis Sings The Mad Professor', a picture disc containing alternate version of songs written by Mad Professor Ben Weisman, and 'Cafe Europa En Uniforme', a 'Cornetto colored vinyl 2-LP featuring alternate takes from the 'G.I. Blues' soundtrack have been released by the French LMLR label. The first fans received their copies just before Record Store Dat 2021.

Seventh Silver Award 

Elvis Presley was awarded his seventh B.P.I. Award this year. The single '(You're The) Devil In Disguise' was certified Silver for selling over 200,000 copies sold since 16/11/2004 (streams plus digital downloads plus physical sales). 

(Source: ElvisMatters / Facebook / Nigel Patterson / FECC / B.P.I.)