July 30 - One Night Only

The new Paramount+ documentary 'Reinventing Elvis' will be shown in 600 cinema's around the world. 

Description: In 1968, the world was changing. Elvis Presley, once the King of Rock and Roll, was losing his appeal. His notorious manager, Col. Tom Parker, wanted to restore Elvis’ popularity: a network TV Christmas special, replete with sweaters and Santa. To direct the Special, Parker and Elvis both approved of NBC’s choice, the brash, young, socially conscious rebel director Steve Binder. 
But Binder had a completely different vision for the Special, one that Elvis enthusiastically embraced — much to Parker’s dismay. For the first time on camera, Binder tells the true story of Reinventing Elvis and the Fight which resulted in the ’68 Comeback Special - a riveting new documentary from award winning Music Producer Spencer Proffer and directed by acclaimed filmmaker John Scheinfeld - premiering August 15 exclusively on Paramount+. 

Go behind-the-camera and hear from Elvis Presley, music historians and many of the people who were there for the making of this unforgettable moment in music and pop-culture history. Binder’s work reinvigorated Elvis’ image and turned him back into an icon while inventing new filming techniques in the direction of the Special. Reinventing Elvis: The Comeback also features appearances and new musical performances by multi genre superstar, Darius Rucker; young emerging music star, Drake Milligan (“Sun Records”), Latin musical sensation Maffio performing a Salsa version of Blue Suede Shoes— and, above all, Elvis Presley.

(Source: Meteor 17)

July 29 - House For Sale

The house where Lisa Marie Presley lived in until the day she died is up for sale. 

Lisa Marie moved into the Calabasas house in 2020. She rented it, but had an option to purchase it, which she planned to do. TMZ was told when Lisa Marie first saw the house, she fell in love with it, as did her twins and ex-husband Danny Keough, who lived with them.

The house is listed for US$4,679,000. Her realtor and friend, Robb Friedman, significantly renovated the property after she died back in January.

The house is a skosh under 7,500 square feet with 6 bedrooms and 7 baths, and has all the bells and whistles, including a home theatre, a wine cellar, the obligatory California pool and great canyon views.

Note: The house was sold in just two days.

Hall of Fame

The Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame inducted founder of SUN Records and radio station owner Sam Phillips into the hall as part of the Legacy Class of 2023.  

Not Now Music

The Not Now Music re-issues of 'Something For Everyone' and 'Girls! Girls! Girls!' have been released, a week before the official release date. 

(TMZ / Facebook)

July 29 - Chart July 2023 - Week 5

The weekly global Elvis Presley chart update. 

U.S. Billboard charts:

• Billboard Top 200 Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' dropped from #177 to #184.
• Billboard Soundtrack Album chart: 'ELVIS' Soundtrack remained steady at #25. 
• Billboard Top Country Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' dropped from #33 to #34. 
• Billboard Top Rock and Alternative Albums chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' climbed from #40 to #38. 

Official U.K. charts:

• Official Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' climbed from #48 to #44. 
• Official Streaming Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' remained steady at #37.  
• Official Soundtrack Album chart: 'ELVIS' dropped from #43 to #46. 
• Official Country Compilations chart: 'From Elvis in Nashville' dropped from #12 to #20. 
• Official Film chart: 'ELVIS' dropped from #36 to #38. 
• Official DVD chart: 'ELVIS' dropped from #21 to #22.
• Official Video Chart Top 100: 'ELVIS' remained steady at #22. 
• Official Blu-ray chart: 'ELVIS' climbed from #60 to #41. 
• Official Films On Disc chart: 'ELVIS' climbed from #18 to #16.    
• Official Music DVD chart:'Elvis The Complete Story' dropped from #21 to #41.
• Official Music DVD chart: 'The King of Rock and Roll' dropped from #25 to #55.

Irish IRMA charts:

• Official Irish Album chart: 'ELV1S 30#1 Hits' remained steady at #63.  
• Official Irish Video chart: 'ELVIS' climbed from #17 to #16. 

(Source: Official Chart Company / IRMA / UK Mix Forum)

July 28 - Elvis Video News Report

The August 2023 Elvis Video News report is available. It features news on the new documentary 'ReInventing Elvis', Elvis's Aloha crown was lost by Graceland, Anita Wood passing awY, the Top 10 Elvis Funeral songs, restoring a 67-year old Elvis Movie Poster and much more short news flashes.

Now Dig Elvis

Elvis graces the cover of volume 485 of the U.K. Now Dig This magazine. Inside the article "Every Elvis Picture Tells A Story" and more Rock and Roll music  subjects. 

(Source: Emiel Maier / Elvis Club Berlin)

July 27 - Vintage Danish Rock

The U.K. Based Memphis Recording Service announced the mid-August release of the LP and double CD sets 'Closing Nights 1972'. 

Publicity stated: This CD features a live performance recorded on 4 September 1972, during the last night of Elvis’ seventh engagement in Las Vegas at the Hilton Hotel. For the first time ever, the show is presented in stereo. A bonus CD of remastered rehearsal tracks, recorded days before the engagement began, is also included. 

The accompanying booklet - featuring rare photographs and memorabilia from the final evening – also includes liner notes that set the scene.

Tracks CD 1 - Las Vegas Hilton December 4, 1972 Dinner Show: Also Sprach Zarathustra - See See Rider - Johnny B. Goode - Until It’s Time For You To Go - You Don't Have To Say You Love Me - Polk Salad Annie - Elvis Talks To Audience - What Now My Love - Fever - Love Me - Blue Suede Shoes - Heartbreak Hotel - All Shook Up - Love Me Tender - (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel - Little Sister / Get Back - Hound Dog - I'll Remember You - Walk That Lonesome Road (J. D. Sumner & The Stamps) - Suspicious Minds - Band Introductions - Elvis Welcomes British Fanclub - For The Good Times - A Big Hunk O' Love - You Gave Me A Mountain - Can't Help Falling In Love

CD 2 - August 4, 1972 Las Vegas Rehearsals:

You Don't Have To Say You Love Me - Until It's Time For You To Go - You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin' - Burning Love - What Now My Love (Take 1) - What Now My Love (Take 2) - My Babe - For The Good Times - True Love Travels On A Gravel Road - Fever - Blueberry Hill - Little Sister / Get Back (Incomplete) - I'll Remember You - An American Trilogy - Something - Faded Love - You Gave Me A Mountain - I'm Leavin' - My Way (Take 1) - My Way (Take 2)

Tracks LP: Side A - 04.09.1972 DS (Las Vegas): Also Sprach Zarathustra - See See Rider - Johnny B. Goode - Until It’s Time For You To Go - You Don't Have To Say You Love Me - Polk Salad Annie - What Now My Love - Fever - Love Me - Blue Suede Shoes - Heartbreak Hotel - All Shook Up

Side B: Love Me Tender - (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel - Little Sister / Get Back - Hound Dog - I'll Remember You - Suspicious Minds - For The Good Times - A Big Hunk O' Love - You Gave Me A Mountain - Can't Help Falling In Love

Note: This material was previously released on the Follow That Dream CDs ‘Destination USA’ and ‘3000 Paradise Road’ and the Madison bootleg 'A Hilton Double Shot 1'. Both released in mono.

Vintage Rock

Volume 64 of the Vintage Rock magazine is out. 

In this summer edition the magazine relives the rise of the teen idols who stormed the charts in the 50s and early 60s and talks to Donna Presley who reveals all to Vintage Rock about her years spent living at cousin Elvis’ Graceland mansion and Circle G ranch. 

There’s more Elvis action, too, as we grab our popcorn to take a deep dive into his finest big-screen role in King Creole.

The Danish Picture Disc Collection 

The Danish Memphis Mansion released a Limited Edition picture disc of of 'The Danish Singles Collection Volume 4'.

Aloha Preview

Here is another preview of the package for the upcoming 'Aloha from Hawaii' re-issue which is due August 11, 2023.

(Source: Vintage Rock / Elvis Club Berlin / Memphis Mansion / Pascal Matteo / Memphis Recording Service / FECC)

July 26 - The Paper Battle Continues

The battle over the estate of Lisa Marie Presley - and Graceland - is far from over, as two of the late star's daughters retained lawyers to ensure they are getting a fair share of the Elvis Presley fortune.

In the new legal filing, obtained exclusively by The Blast, 14-year-old twins Harper and Finley Lockwood are requesting a guardian ad litem in Lisa Marie’s trust case that their sister Riley Keough filed back in June.

The twins want their legal protection because they are minors, and there remains a dispute over the distribution of the massive Presley estate. Basically, they want to ensure they get paid everything they are entitled to while the remaining family members all carve out their pieces.

Vivienne Ann Lockwood will apply ex parte to the Court for the appointment of a Guardian ad litem to represent her interest in this proceeding. In contrast, Finley Aaron Love Lockwood will apply ex parte to the Court for the appointment of a Guardian ad litem to represent her interests. Both twins are beneficiaries of the Trust.

In June 2023, Riley Keough, 34, and her grandmother, Priscilla Presley, 78, finally reached an agreement over the late Lisa Marie Presley’s estate. The 'Daisy Jones and the Six' star became the sole Trustee. The 34-year-old had petitioned the court to approve May 2023’s settlement agreement in documents filed in Los Angeles.

Her lawyer, Justin Gold, had written that Riley would not charge for her services as Trustee if the court approved the petition. Gold wrote that “the beneficiaries all save money that would have gone to Priscilla, who was going to charge a trustee fee” in court documents obtained by The Blast. "In settling the claims pending in Priscilla's Petition, the parties are saving significant legal fees by avoiding litigation, and they are likewise avoiding the spectacle of intra-family litigation that would have been inimical to Lisa's wishes and not in the best interests of the family,” Gold added in the legal filing.

Riley was named the sole Trustee of her mother’s estate and the sub-trusts for her 14-year-old twin sisters, Harper and Finley Lockwood. She is now charged with safeguarding and investing the money “in a manner consistent with the needs of the beneficiaries, and not influenced by the desire of a Trustee.”

And Then There Was ... The Wrong Paper

The KJ Consulting book '... And Then There Was Elvis' was supposed to be out last month, but it was delayed again. 

Erik Lorenzen's Elvis Files team posted on Facebook: "Final response from the printer. Due to the fact that the paper we initially received was wrong and of poor quality, we had to start the printing process again and it took some time. 

Everything is printed now and we will deliver to you in a few days. Sorry for the delay."

Premiere In Venice

Sofia Coppola’s 'Priscilla' will premier at the 80th Venice International Film Festival in September 2023 and as the NYFF Centerpiece Selection this fall.

Description: “Priscilla is an upcoming American biographical drama film written, directed and co-produced by Sofia Coppola, based on the 1985 memoir Elvis and Me by Priscilla Presley and Sandra Harmon. It follows the life of Presley and her relationship with musician Elvis Presley. Cailee Spaeny and Jacob Elordi star as Priscilla and Elvis, respectively.”

(Source: The Blast / Yahoo News / The Elvis Files / Priscilla Movie Instagram)

July 25 - Io, Elvis

The Italian publisher Diarkos announced the October 10, 2023 release of a new edition of Paolo Borgognone's 2022 book 'Io, Elvis'. This new edition contains 32 extra pages.

Publicity for the 496-page paperback book stated: What other 20th century artist has managed to embody, like Elvis, the perfect prototype of the pop (and rock) icon at 360 degrees? Music, cinema, culture, society ... Everything speaks - and has always spoken - of the King of Rock 'n' Roll. 

Borgognone recounts his ascent to the pinnacle of fame which, analyzed from an alternative point of view, also represents a path in reverse, or rather a descent through the torments and fears of a simple man: Elvis Aaron Presley. The terrible poverty of his birth, the death of his twin in childbirth, the bullying suffered at school, the difficult beginnings of his career, the extravagance during the first great success and the call to arms. 

Among unpublished curiosities and exclusive interviews, the book traces a human (and earthly) story that ended tragically on August 16, 1977, but indelibly carved into the firmament of world music.

(More) Permanent Lisa Marie Presley Exhibition

The managing partner of Graceland, Joel Weinshanker, revealed on his new 'Inside Graceland' radio show on SiriusFM that for Lisa Marie Presley's birthday in February 2024, Graceland will display a "much larger, more substantial permanent exhibit about Lisa Marie".

He also revealed that the 'Making of the ELVIS movie" exhibition will be extended from September 2023 to early 2024.

For long-range plans, he said that in the next 5-10 years they are planning on building a hangar for the Elvis' planes at Graceland which will serve as an event space.

(Amazon / The Elvis Examiner)

Is Your Day By Day Collection Complete?

It’s time to start TCB! Taking Care of Books. 

The 2022 edition of 'Elvis Day By Day - The Year In Review' has been released a few months and the reactions are very positive, thanks for that!

You can read them at >>> Reviews 'Elvis Day By Day 2023'.

Description: Four and a half decades, that's how long it has been since the world lost Elvis Presley. After some entertainers pass away, they fade away too. Not Elvis! 

His legacy is just as diverse as it is relevant 45 years later. If the memory of his greatness and uniqueness as a musical artist has slightly faded over the past years, the stunning No. 1 Hollywood blockbuster 'ELVIS', starring Austin Butler as the man himself and Oscar-winner Tom Hanks as his manager Colonel Tom Parker, is a powerful reminder of what an unmatched giant musical and showbiz force he was - and continues to be. 

And did you hear the soundtrack for the 2022 biopic? Elvis, side-by-side with contemporary artists, really rocked! Confirming once more that his life and legacy still influence pop culture today. 

But there was more that made 2022 another great Elvis year. After 50 years we finally got all the concerts from 'Elvis On Tour', remastered and remixed to perfection by audio-engineer Matt Ross-Spang, just like he did with the 'Aloha from Hawaii' album. 

From the Follow that Dream collectors label we got the ‘Lost Album Sessions’, new concerts and vinyl re-issues. Official and bootleg labels treated us with many new titles containing new concert performances or alternate recordings, while others offered us newly created stereo mixes. Also hot this year was fan shot 8mm concert footage, especially the combination of remastered concert on CD with the live footage included on DVD proved to be a favorite among fans. 

The ’Elvis Day By Day 2022’ yearbook covers all the movie released on DVD and Blu-ray, new music releases on CD, vinyl, cassette-tape and digital platforms. Also included are books from all corners of the world on his all aspects of his life, faith, the SUN recordings, the German and U.K. and LP catalogues, the marketing of his first movies, his cars, planes, pilot and much more. 

Added to all the news, this 2022 yearbook contains 55 reviews on all the important releases, including the year’s Top 10 must-have releases and warnings which ones to stay-away from and an in-depth interview with renowned Elvis-author Alanna Nash, talking about Colonel Parker and the 2022 biopic and more. Yes, Elvis still matters today, and with this 5th volume in the series - over 70 pages bigger than the 2021 edition! - you hold the proof in your hands. 

The Foreword was written by the late Elvis World's Phil Gelormine.

The book is available from the >>> Poplar Tunes webshop.

You can also buy the book from:

>>> Amazon.com

>>> Amazon U.K.

>>> Amazon Germany

>>> Amazon France

>>> Amazon Japan

>>> Amazon Australia

>>> Amazon Canada

Signed editions are available from the author at >>> elvis @ xs4all.nl. For wholesale enquiries please use the same address.

 

July 24 - For LP Fans From Memphis Only

The German Speakers Corner announced the re-release of 'From Elvis In Memphis', created from the analog master tape and with 100% analog mastering. 

The LP was originally released in 2003 by this label. In April the label announced the September 1, 2023 release of the 'For LP Fans Only' album.

(Source: Elvis Club Berlin / Speakers Corner)

July 23 - Elvis Presley: Hans Liv, Hans Dod

Jørgen de Mylius published his 316-page Danish book 'Elvis Presley: Hans Liv, Hans Dod'. 

Description: This book tells the story of the man and legend Elvis Presley (1935-1977). Elvis' life was as magnificent and unusual as it was turbulent and dramatic. The book describes the great musician's life and career and contains a complete discography of his albums and musical career.

(Source: Barnes and Nobles)

Review 70th Anniversary of Elvis First Recording

The French RDM Edition released a CD and a CD-Single to commemorate the 70th anniversary of Elvis Presley’s first recording on July 18 1953 at Sam Phillips SUN Studio in Memphis. 

Although this was not thé turning point in music history, that was the release of 'That's All Right Mama' a year and a day later, it is a significant date (at least for Elvis fans). To mark it with a dedicated release is only appropriate. 

 
Design
 
The design of the CD-single is both authentic as (too) modern. Authentic as it features the original torn label of Elvis’ first private recording which all fans recognize immediately. It is too modern as it was places on a multitrack vinyl disc to create an original effect. Inside short liner liner-notes on the two songs on this silver disc single. 
 
The jewel-case holding the 24-track compilation CD features a very basic design with a colored promotional picture of Elvis. A good choice, looking at the content, where coloring the image is a matter of taste. But I wonder if it will appeal to a wide audience. The liner-notes - based on Wikipedia, illustrated with the cover photo of the CD - wrap up Elvis’ sessions at SUN studio nicely; from hist first private recording to his last impromptu “Million Dollar” jam-session
 
Content
 

One of the most remarkable careers in music history got off to an inauspicious start on July 18, 1953, when an 18-year-old Elvis Presley walked into the Memphis Recording Service to cut his first amateur recording for four dollars on a 78 RPM acetate disc. He recorded two songs: ‘My Happiness’ on side A and ‘That’s When Your Heartaches Begin’ on the flip-side.
 
The songs were recorded my Marion Keisker. Talking about that summer day in 1953 Marion said: "The office was full of people wanting to make personal records. He came in, said he wanted to make a record. I told him he'd have to wait and he said OK. He sat down. While he was waiting, we had a conversation. He said he was a singer. I said, 'What kind of singer are you?' He said, 'I sing all kinds.' I said, 'Who do you sound like?' He said, 'I don't sound like nobody.'"
 
Listening to this disc, Elvis was true to his words as it presents us with all kind of styles: blues, rhythm and blues, gospel, country and western, hillbilly, rockabilly and bluegrass. 

Some of these recordings remain true to their genre, some making a cross-over thanks to a different approach from the Blue Moon Boys, others entered new territory like the explosive version Arthur Crudup's ‘That's All Right Mama’, kick-starting Elvis’ career and creating an entire new genre.
 
This disc holds it all; 4 recordings self-financed by Elvis, the 18 surviving official SUN records recordings, as well as 2 tracks from the “Million Dollar Session” with Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis and Johnny Cash as a bonus. The latter two titles - ‘Don’t Be Cruel’ and ‘Paralyzed’ by the great Otis Blackwell - were hits Elvis had recorded for RCA Victor, and will appeal to the casual buyer, so a good choice by the label. Put together these songs make an entertaining compilation.
 
The booklet states that particular care has been taken to restore the audio on the first two recordings, I wish this had been done for all the audio as I do hear some errors; ‘Harbor Lights’ sounds like it is taken from vinyl and some songs appear to be cut short art the fade-out. So I assume the music has been sourced from various sources. 

With this 70-year-old material better versions are available, and can be used under European copyright law. 
 
Conclusion
 

It was fun to revisit the 1953 - 1956 era once again with these two discs. The CD-Single looks great, but I would have preferred a vinyl release, remaining closer the original and giving a more authentic feel when playing it as a novelty release. 

The same goes for the CD, especially considering the content and the comeback vinyl has made. That said, the label serves a different marked, so a CD release fits their business-model. I only wished the label had used a better source for the music. But fortunately we have other 2023 releases offering these recordings in both mono and stereo on both CD and vinyl editions.
 
Although this release adds noting new - how would that be possible for any label - it is a nice novelty release for fans, remembering that it was already 70 years ago that Elvis stepped into the now famous studio … and for me a good reason to listen to the songs that contributed to pave the way for so much new music and artists. 

For more information on these CDs, visit the >>> RDM Edition website, or Amazon. 

Sources used: >>> Classic Rock and Culture: 70 Years Ago: Elvis Presley Launches Recording Career for $4 by Bryan Rolli / Wikipedia / Elvis World Japan / Q magazine. Albums kindly provided by RDM Edition. 

July 22 - Charts July 2022 - Week 4 (Updated)

The weekly global Elvis Presley chart update. In the United States Elvis dropped on most charts, but the 'ELVIS' soundtrack made a re-appearance on the chart. 

In the United Kingdom Elvis' albums and Baz Luhrmann's movie found their way up on all charts. In Ireland the music climbed on the chart while the movie dropped a few spots. 

Additional charts will be updated over the weekend when the listings become available.

U.S. Billboard charts:

• Billboard Top 200 Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' dropped from #161 to #177.
• Billboard Soundtrack Album chart: 'ELVIS' Soundtrack makes a re-entry at #25.
• Billboard Top Country Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' dropped from #31 to #33. 
• Billboard Top Rock and Alternative Albums chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' dropped from #35 to #40. 

Official U.K. charts:

• Official Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' climbed from #51 to #48. 
• Official Streaming Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' climbed from dropped from #42 to #37.  
• Official Soundtrack Album chart: 'ELVIS' Soundtrack remained steady at #43.  
• Official Country Compilations chart: 'From Elvis in Nashville' climbed from #14 to #12.
• Official Film chart: 'ELVIS' climbed from #37 to #36.  
• Official Video Chart Top 100: 'ELVIS' dropped from #19 to #22. 
• Official DVD chart: 'ELVIS' dropped from #14 to #21.
• Official Blu-ray chart: 'ELVIS' dropped from #42 to #60. 
• Official Films On Disc chart: 'ELVIS' dropped from #16 to #18.   
• Official Music DVD chart:'Elvis The Complete Story' dropped from #18 to #20.
• Official Music DVD chart: 'Elvis The Searcher' makes a re-entry at #36.

Official Music DVD chart:'The King of Rock and Roll' climbed from #40 to #25.  

Irish IRMA charts:

• Official Irish Album chart: 'ELV1S 30#1 Hits' climbed from #75 to #63.  
• Official Irish Video chart: 'ELVIS' dropped from #9 to #17.  

19 Most Comforting Songs About Losing Your Dog

Hello Music Theory published the "19 Most Comforting Songs About Losing Your Dog". 

Dogs are universally loved pets. Words are not enough to describe all the ways they make our lives better. Despite the drool on your expensive couch, the endless wiping of pee, and the scooping up of poop, having a mighty canine in your life is all worth it.

That’s why losing your dog is synonymous with getting your heart broken, leaving you to seek comfort in various ways. Music is one of the best ways to help you get through your loss.

Here, we have a list of 19 comforting songs about losing your dog. We hope that by reading through our compilation, you’ll find some semblance of comfort.

1. “Old Shep” By Elvis Presley.

2. “Shannon” By Henry Gross.

3. “Dogs In Heaven” By David Gregg.

The site noted: The legendary Elvis Presley knows a thing or two about losing a dog. In 1956, he released “Old Shep,” a heartfelt tribute to a beloved pet dog.

The song narrates the joys, and deep bond shared between a young boy and his faithful canine friend, Shep. They have been together ever since Shep was a puppy. They spend days on adventures and grow up together.

Unfortunately, Shep grows old and gets sick. He aims his rifle at Shep to put him out of misery, but he can’t bring himself to kill his furry friend.

In reality, Shep is based on lyricist Red Folley’s dog, Hoover. A neighbor poisoned the dog.

The song’s heart-wrenching lyrics can reflect the deep pain owners feel when their dog passes away.

Read the complete list at >>> Hello Music Theory.

(Source: Official Chart Company / UK Mix Forum / Billboard / IRMA / Hello Music Theory)

July 22 - Leaving A Mark

Elvis takes top billing on the French July 2023 edition of the French Chanson magazine. This edition focuses on the "mythical stars who left a mark on our lives". 

The July 2023 edition of the French Rock and Folk magazine is a retrospective special on Rock Movies from the fifties until present day with unpublished interviews, focus on films that marked the era, the arrival of MTV or even the madness of biopics.

Elvis Presley is featured as part of the '1954–1964 The Wild Years' section with a feature titled 'Elvis Goes To Hollywood" by Jean-William Thoury.

Rock It Up

The Rockwell Records record label released the 'Rock It Up' compilation on blue colored vinyl. 

Side A: Harbor Lights (Take 4) - I Love You Because (Take 5) - That's All Right (Take 3) - Blue Moon (Take 8) - I'm Left You're Right She's Gone (Take 6) - I Got A Woman (Take 7?) - Heartbreak Hotel (Take 6)

Side B: I'm Counting On You (Take 13) - I Was The One (Take 2) - Lawdy, Miss Clawdy (Take 12) - Shake Rattle And Roll (Take 8) - I Want You I Need You, I Love You  (Take 16) - Old Shep (Take 5) - Rip It Up (Take 16).

(Source: Pascal Matteo)

July 21 - Tony Bennett Died

Grammy and Emmy Award winning Jazz-singer and performer Tony Bennett died, he was 96. His career spanned 7 decades and multiple genres.

Elvis Presley recorded his 1953 hit (with Percy Faith and his orchestra) 'Rags to Riches' in 1971 for his 'Elvis Country' album. In 1994 Bennett recorded Elvis' 'Love me Tender' for the 'It's Now or Never - The Tribute to Elvis' album.

When asked to compare Frank Sinatra and Elvis, Tony Bennett said “You can’t compare them. Presley is country music, white music. Jazz is Black music – it was invented by Black people in New Orleans. And I’m really a jazz singer. I was impressed with Elvis – he was the handsomest guy I ever met in my life, and a very nice person, too. But the music doesn’t impress me.”

New Vinyl

Due for release from the Legendary Artists budget record label on August 25, 2023 are 'Elvis at the Movies' and 'Both Sides of Elvis'. 

(Source: Variety / Wikipedia / Do You Remember /Alanna Nash / Amazon)

July 20 - RCA Beyond Digital (Updated)

The digital book 'Elvis UK Beyond RCA The Ultimate Guide To Elvis Presley's British Non-RCA LPs 1974-1997' by John Townson and Gordon Minto will be re-issued in September 2023 as a physical 377-page paperback edition this August. 

This second edition has been updated and slightly revised. However, those who bought the digital version will also receive the updated version which will be despatched to them - free of charge - soon. And the digital copy will still be available to buy for those who prefer that medium. 

Click here to read the review I wrote with Nigel Patterson and Piers Beagley of the >>> digital edition. 

The print edition can only be obtained through >>> Now Dig This and Elvis The Man And His Music. 

The Story of Elvis Presley in the Fifties

Horizon books re-published an updated edition of Howard A. DeWitt's 1993 book 'The SUN Years: The Story of Elvis Presley in the Fifties'. This 412-page hardcover edition was updated and re-published with new contributions by Scott S. Amonson and Ken Burke.

Description: 'The Story of Elvis Presley in the Fifties' is recognized as the definitive history of Presley and Sun Records. By ignoring the myths and drawing upon 200 interviews with those close to Sun Record founder, Sam Phillips, the magnetic appeal of Elvis brought him to the forefront of rock ‘n’ roll. 

DeWitt offers a personal as well as professional portrait of young Elvis, who, from behind a facade of great confidence, revealed to his closest friends the rather shy, nervous, decent, respectful and polite individual whose primary desire as a performer was to always do his best. 

The forgotten heroes behind Elvis are also examined in detail. “That’s All Right (Mama)” created the power of the Hillbilly Cat. He became a regional star. When Col. Tom Parker became Presley’s manager, this created the myths surrounding Elvis’ unique talent. The back story of family, friends and musicians who brought Elvis to the pinnacle of rock stardom has never been told. They are the “forgotten heroes.” They tell a new story of Presley and the Sun Record label.

This expanded revised edition focuses on the talent of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll as he entered the rock music mainstream. Supported by nine appendices devoted to Elvis’ early concerts, recordings, and musical influences, rare photos of his early life, a bibliographical essay, and a list of sources, Elvis the Sun Years is a unique, insightful, and entertaining portrait of a little-known period in the life of the greatest entertainer of our time.

Elvis Presley: The King of Rock 'n' Roll

Morghan Knight published his 77-page paperback 'Elvis Presley: The King of Rock 'n' Roll'.

Description: The life of Elvis Presley, the King of Rock 'n' Roll, is a tale of remarkable triumphs, soaring successes, and poignant challenges. From his humble beginnings in Tupelo, Mississippi, to his meteoric rise to fame and enduring legacy, Elvis's journey has left an indelible mark on the world of music and popular culture.

As we traverse the pages of this biography, we uncover the many layers of Elvis—the musical prodigy who revolutionized the world of music, the charismatic performer who captivated audiences worldwide, and the vulnerable human being who grappled with the pressures of fame and the complexities of personal relationships.

From the early years at Sun Records to his Hollywood stardom, Elvis demonstrated a tireless dedication to his craft. He pushed the boundaries of musical genres, blending country, blues, gospel, and rock 'n' roll into a unique sound that continues to resonate with audiences today. His magnetic stage presence and electrifying performances transformed live entertainment, forever elevating the concert experience into a larger-than-life spectacle.

This book further revealed Elvis's personal struggles, from the challenges of fame and health issues to the complexities of his relationships and personal losses. Behind the curtain of stardom, we witnessed a man who grappled with the weight of expectations and the price of being a cultural icon.

Throughout his life, Elvis sought solace and meaning in spirituality, and his music, especially gospel, remained a source of comfort and connection to his roots. He had a profound impact on millions of lives, not only through his music but also through his generosity, philanthropy, and commitment to those in need.

Elvis Presley's untimely passing in 1977 marked the end of an era, but his legacy lives on. His influence continues to shape the music industry, inspiring countless artists across genres and generations. Graceland, his beloved home in Memphis, Tennessee, stands as a testament to his enduring impact, welcoming fans from around the world to celebrate the life of the King.

Beyond the fame and fortune, the story of Elvis Presley is one of human complexities—of dreams realized and challenges faced, of triumphs and tragedies. His journey serves as a reminder that even cultural icons are vulnerable, navigating the highs and lows of life just like anyone else.

(Source: Gordon Minto / Amazon)

July 17 - Jerry Bradley Died

Former A&R manager Jerry Bradley died, he was 83. RIP.

Bradley began working with Chet Atkins and would eventually go on to serve as the head of RCA Records in Nashville from 1973 to 1982. Over the course of his five-decade career, Bradley helped usher country music from the domain of traditionalists like Brenda Lee and Loretta Lynn through the rise of pop-aimed crooners including Dolly Parton, Charley Pride, Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson. 

Bradley played a pivotal role in the return of Elvis Presley to country music. Songs such as 'Moody Blue' and 'Way Down' hit number one on the Billboard country charts prior to Presley's 1977 death. Presley also had six posthumous top-ten hits on those same charts between 1977 and 1981, including 'Guitar Man', his final No. 1 in 1981.

Bradley was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2019. 

(Source: Academy of Country Music / The Tennessean / Wikipedia)