Saturday, November 18, 2023

November 18 - Echoes Of A Virtual King In Vegas (Updated)

The new JJJB import record label released their first double CD 'Echoes of the King' featuring 24 songwriter demo's and first take by Elvis Presley.

Publicity stated: This Limited Edition double CD-set features songwriter demos and first takes from the one and only Elvis Presley. The release title 'Echoes of the King' captures the essence of these recordings.

The demos and early takes in this collection are raw and intimate, capturing Elvis's passion for music and his incredible vocal talent. You'll hear him experiment with different melodies and arrangements, feeling the energy and excitement in the air. They are a haunting reminder of the immense talent and influence that Elvis had on the music world.

Elvis Presley was one of the most iconic and influential musicians of all time. His music has transcended generations and continues to inspire fans worldwide. Now, for the first time, a new double CD collection is released, including 24 songwriter demos and early takes of some of Elvis's most beloved songs, such as 'Suspicion', 'Something Blue', 'Viva Las Vegas', 'No More' and 'I Met Her Today'.

This collection is a must-have for any Elvis fan, offering a unique opportunity to hear how some of his greatest hits originated. The demos and early takes provide a fascinating insight into Elvis's creative process and his incredible vocal talent.
The collection is beautifully packaged in a double CD set, the first featuring 24 demos that composers presented to Elvis with their new songs, and the second with Elvis's initial attempts to record those same 24 tracks.

The CD includes demos and early takes.

CD 1 - The Songwriter Demos:

Night Life - Viva Las Vegas - Suspicion - Anything That´s Part Of You - What Now, Where Next, Where To - Hard Headed Woman - Slowly But Surely - Sing You Children - Spinout - C´mon Everybody - (Marie´s The Name) His Latest Flame - I Need Somebody To Lean On - What A Wonderful Life - One Broken Heart For Sale - Kismet - Once Is Enough - No More - I Met Hear Today - Cotton Candy Land - My Desert Serenade - Good Luck Charm - The Love Machine - Something Blue - There´s Always Me.

CD 2 - The Earlier Takes:
Night Life (Take 1) - Viva Las Vegas (Take 1, 2) - Suspicion (Take 1) - Anything That´s Part Of You (Take 1) - What Now, Where Next, Where To (Take 1) - Hard Headed Woman (Take 10, Master) - Slowly But Surely (Take 1) - Sing You Children (Take 1) - Spinout (Take 1, 2) - C´mon Everybody (Take 1, 2, 3) - (Marie´s The Name) His Latest Flame (Take 1, Rehearsal) - I Need Somebody To Lean On (Take 1, 2) - What A Wonderful Life (Take 2, 1) - One Broken Heart For Sale (Take 1, Master) - Kismet (Take 1, 2) - Once Is Enough (Take 7, Master) - No More (Take 1, 2, 3) - I Met Hear Today (Take 1) - Cotton Candy Land (Take 1, 2, 3, 4) - My Desert Serenade (Take 1, 2, 3) - Good Luck Charm (Take 1) - The Love Machine (Take 1, 2, 3) - Something Blue (Take 1) - There´s Always Me (Take 1).



Formula Elvis

The spirit of Elvis is still around in Vegas. The Red Bull Formula 1 drivers wear EPE approved racing suits. 

Publicity stated: In celebration of the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix, the Team has unveiled their new Elvis-inspired ‘Viva Las Vegas’ race suits, in homage to Elvis’ signature Vegas look. The race suits, manufactured by the Team’s Technical Racewear Supplier Sparco, will make their grand debut at the Las Vegas Grand Prix Race, for one night and one night only, worn by drivers Max Verstappen and Sergio ‘Checo’ Perez on track.

The drivers will race in two different colours: Max in white and Checo in red. The design showcases a jumpsuit-inspired look, is adorned with gold stars on the front and back of the suit and features a classic Elvis ‘belt’.

To further celebrate the partnership, Oracle Red Bull Racing and Elvis Presley Enterprises have created a limited-edition collection of tees, fleece, hoodies and totes featuring vintage images of Elvis adorned in race-gear. The signature apparel will be sold at the >>> Elvis Presley Amazon Shop (click here for the associate link).

The suits worked as the team took places 1 and 3 on the podium!


The King Reimagined

London Ritchie published the 92-page biography 'Elvis Presley: The King Reimagined The Life, Death, and Legacy' in various languages: English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese and Spanish. The book and images are A.I. generated.

Synopsis
: Elvis Presley, widely known as "The King of Rock and Roll," was a cultural icon who revolutionized the music industry and left an indelible mark on the world. Born on January 8, 1935, in Tupelo, Mississippi, Elvis Aaron Presley grew up in humble surroundings, marked by poverty. His early exposure to gospel music in the church, coupled with the influence of rhythm and blues, played a crucial role in shaping his musical style.

Elvis's breakthrough came in 1954 when he recorded "That's All Right" at Sun Studio in Memphis. His fusion of country, rhythm and blues, and gospel created a unique sound that resonated with audiences across racial and cultural divides. The energizing blend of his soulful voice, charismatic stage presence, and unconventional dance moves set the stage for the rock and roll explosion of the 1950s.

The mid-1950s saw Elvis Presley become a cultural phenomenon, with hits like "Heartbreak Hotel," "Hound Dog," and "Jailhouse Rock" dominating the charts. His provocative hip-swiveling performances on stage sparked controversy but also solidified his status as a musical trailblazer. Elvis's impact was not confined to music; his foray into acting saw him star in a series of films, further expanding his influence on popular culture.

However, the pressures of fame, along with personal struggles, took a toll on Elvis's health. His career experienced a decline in the 1960s, but he made a triumphant comeback with his 1968 television special. The '68 Comeback Special showcased his raw talent and reminded the world of his prowess as a live performer. Subsequently, Elvis embarked on a successful concert tour, reclaiming his title as one of the most compelling entertainers of his time.

Tragically, Elvis Presley's life was cut short when he was found dead at Graceland, his iconic home in Memphis, on August 16, 1977. The official cause of death was cardiac arrhythmia, but his struggles with prescription drug abuse were widely acknowledged as contributing factors. The untimely death of the 42-year-old legend sent shockwaves through the world, leaving millions of fans in mourning.

Elvis Presley's legacy, however, transcends his death. His impact on popular music, cultural norms, and the entertainment industry endures. The King's influence is evident in the countless artists who cite him as a major inspiration, from The Beatles to Michael Jackson. His records continue to sell, and his image remains an enduring symbol of rock and roll rebellion.

The phenomenon of Elvis impersonators further illustrates the lasting impact of his persona. The Elvis Presley estate, managed by Elvis Presley Enterprises (EPE), actively preserves and promotes his legacy. Graceland, Elvis's former home, has become a pilgrimage site for fans worldwide, attracting millions each year. The estate has expanded to include a museum, archives, and even a guest house.

In the decades since his passing, Elvis has posthumously received numerous awards and honors, including inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame. His recordings continue to be remastered and reissued, introducing his music to new generations. Elvis Presley's influence is not limited to the United States; he remains a global cultural icon, revered by fans from all corners of the world.

While Elvis's life was marked by highs and lows, his enduring impact on the music industry and popular culture is undeniable. His contributions to rock and roll, his charismatic stage presence, and his ability to transcend racial and cultural barriers make him a timeless figure in the annals of music history. Elvis Presley, The King of Rock and Roll, may have left the building, but his legacy continues to resonate, ensuring that his memory lives on for generations to come.

(Source: Pascal Matteo / JJJB/ Amazon)