February 29 - A Motown Elvis CD

The E.P. Collector import record label released the CD 'The King In Motown City featuring the April 22, 1977 performance as recordex from the audience in Detroit. 

Publicity stated: The E.P. Collector Label is back this Year with another unique release of Elvis show in Detroit, April 23, 1977. The CD is titled The King In Motown City. 

Yes, it was the very last show that Elvis played in Detroit, primarily known as the center of the automobile industry, where three major car manufacturers operate - Ford, Chrysler and General Motors, hence the nickname Motown ("motor city").

The April 22nd, 1977 concert was previously released in 2006 on the extremely poor sounding CD 'The King Has Landed', (actually one of worst sounding Elvis CDs ever) with several tracks being incomplete. This show was never available in solid, listenable sound - until now! So throw your old CD into garbage can and enjoy 'The King In Motown City!' 

The new tape was obtained from an American fan and has been carefully restored and mastered in January 2024, with a focus on preserving the integrity of the original recording. Hence, some minor hiss may be present; we felt it more important to keep the high frequencies and natural ambience of the original recording for historic reasons. The sound is very good for an off line recording - ask your CD dealer for audio samples! As usual the CD is packaged in a nicely designed digipack with local press review. All images used for the artwork were taken during April 1977 tour including real Detroit photos.

Tracks: Also Sprach Zarathustra (2001 Theme) - C. C. Rider - I Got A Woman / Amen - Thats All Right - Are You Lonesome Tonight? - Blue Christmas - Love Me - If You Love Me (Let Me Know) - Jailhouse Rock - O Sole Mio (Sherrill Nielsen) / It's Now Or Never - Little Sister - (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel - Fever - My Way - Band Introductions - Early Morning Rain (John Wilkinson) - What'd I Say - Johnny B Goode - Drum Solo (Ronnie Tutt) - Bass Solo (Jerry Scheff ) - Piano Solo (Tony Brown) - School Day - Hurt (With Reprise) - Hound Dog - Can't Help Falling In Love - Closing Vamp / Announcements.

Note: The promotional text refers to the April 22nd. show.

Suspicious Book

Willow Haichi Hughes published the 317-page book 'E-pi-taph: Suspicious Minds - The Tragedies of the Presley Family'. 

Description: This book brings together all of the stories related to the life and death of the most well-known members of the Presley family and identifies the problems that led up to their destruction and tragic deaths. 

Written from the perspective of the author, who is a lifelong Elvis fan, and in 1978, one year after his passing, first traveled from Europe to Memphis, Tennessee, where she lives today after having visited the shrines remembering Elvis and his family hundreds of times. 

In 79, she met Bill E. Burk, a local writer with the Memphis Press Scimitar and, upon its folding, the Memphis Flyer and his own Elvis news publication. He introduced her to a lot of famous or renowned Memphians who knew the star personally, from the early days until the 1970s. They shared their stories with the author and this is her attempt to make a contribution to the legacy of Elvis seen from the standpoint of people who knew him and remember him.

It is also a resource for fans as it connects them to the places they can still visit today, almost 50 years after his death and remember him. It gives insights into the sights of Memphis and Tupelo. Essentially, it tries to make sense of it all, although trying to analyze the life stories of the characters was a difficult challenge. It aims to help Elvis fans - old ones and new ones who were born well after the star had passed - understand the family dynamic, the involvement of Colonel Parker and what really happened to Elvis as well as his daughter, grandson, father and grandmother. While many of the "stories" may sound familiar, it uncovers countless facts that have never been looked into.

The Voice of a Generation

Lennon Gates published the 139-page book 'Elvis Presley: The Voice of a Generation' in the 'legendary Souls' series.

Description: Elvis Presley personified a rebellious and unique attitude that defied social conventions in addition to his musical career. A new era of self-expression and honesty was made possible by his outspoken approach, both on and off the stage. 

Elvis encouraged generations to celebrate their individuality and stand out in a society that frequently values uniformity by living the lyrics rather than just singing them. Beyond the charts and performance halls, Elvis's influence could be felt in the emotions of people who connected with his music. His catchy songs served as a celebration and joyous backdrop, but his ballads addressed the delicate moments of love and grief. Elvis wasn't just a singer; he was a storyteller, capturing the essence of the human experience in each note and lyric.

We continue to say goodbye to Elvis Presley's physical presence while being grateful for the gifts he gave the world. Time will never be able to take away from the King's charm, music, or memories. Even though Elvis has departed from this world, his influence endures in the lyrics he sings, the happiness he brings to audiences, and the memories he leaves behind.

The spirit of Elvis, then, should live on, the love of life, the bravery to be oneself, and the conviction that music has the ability to bring people together. With the knowledge that his legacy will live on and inspire future generations, may the King rest in peace. We appreciate you ruling over our hearts, Elvis Presley. Join me as we journey through the life and legacy of this great icon.

Note: the book is probably an AI generated. 

(Source: FECC / Amazon)