April 30 - The Story of Elvis, Ann-Margret and Duane

Published through a Centennial / A 360 Media is the themed magazine is 'The Story of Viva Las Vegas'.

Synopsis: Elvis Presley made 31 films during his career, almost all of which were wildly profitable and, creatively, mostly the same: simple romantic plots, campy humor, lots and lots of music. Released in 1964,  'Viva Las Vegas'  was built to follow the same formula for success. Yet the results were iconically different: it not only became the highest grossing film to feature Elvis, it propelled the career of costar Ann-Margret and widened the appeal of Sin City itself. 

What made Viva Las Vegas special? It had chemistry. It had heat. It showed larger-than-life superstars, at the peak of their powers, flirting and frolicking their way through life. Almost a decade before Elvis and Vegas became inseparable, this movie established why it was a match made in musical heaven. And the on-screen chemistry he shared with Ann-Margret wasn’t great acting, it was a real-life seduction caught on camera.

Golden Boy Elvis

The German Golden Boy Elvis magazine sent out their quarterly digital supplement to the subscribers of the printed edition their magazine. 

This digital edition features a wrap-up of the news with items of the Follow That Dream label, Humes High School, Dave Hebler, James Burton, but also other Elvis related news on 70 years of 'Rock Around The Clock' with Bill Haley and 'I Am Everything' with Little Richard and Barbra Streisand. The magazine closes with a big articles on Kurt Russell as Elvis and the 'Kissin' Cousins' soundtrack. 

For more information on the magazine please visit the website >>> www.goldenboyelvis.de or >>> contact the publisher by mail.

Duane Eddy Died

Guitarist Duane Eddy, died, he was 86. R.I.P. 

 
A self-taught electric guitar virtuoso with a "twang", he influenced a generation of musicians. One of them, John Fogerty, called him rock’s first guitar god.

He can be heard playing guitar on 'An American Trilogy' and 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' on the 2015 album 'If I Can Dream' by Elvis Presley and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.  

Duane Eddy was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1994, He was also inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame in Nashville in 2008. He famously beat Elvis into second place to win NME's World Musical Personality Award in 1960.

We know that Elvis had at least two records by Duane Eddy in his collection 'Forty Miles Of Bad Road' and 'Cannonball/ Mason Dixon Line'. Elvis also performed his jam on 'Peter Gunn' at his July 15 1970 'TTWII' rehearsals.

(Source: Pascal Matteo / A 360 Media / Golden Boy Elvis / Elvis Information Network / NY Times)

April 27 - Liquid Vinyl (Updated)

The March / April 2024 edition of the German Graceland magazine mentions the Summer 2024 release of a 10-inch liquid vinyl edition of Elvis' SUN 209 commercial debut single 'That's All Right' / ‘Blue Moon of Kentucky’. 

Publicity stated: To celebrate the 70th Anniversary of Elvis’ historic first single release of Sun 209 ‘That’s All Right’/ ‘Blue Moon of Kentucky’ a very special and totally unique limited-edition release of the recording that changed Rock’n’Roll history will be out in the first week of July 2024. 

This special liquid vinyl version of Sun 209 10-inch playing at 78 RPM is restricted to 125 copies worldwide. They contain a 2-colour liquid, nicely matching those notable SUN colours, that moves inside the vinyl. Each of these unique vinyls are handmade and take an hour to produce each one. They also have the original etched numbers included with the appropriate song sides and are by far the most remarkable SUN replica made. The labels are perfect (as the original) in size, accuracy and colour. 

The sound quality is excellent, featuring the original Sun recordings with the ‘dry’ ‘That’s All Right’ and pressed on heavy stock vinyl. This is a strictly Limited Edition of only 125 copies that will ever be produced. The price will be around Euro 200-250. 

The Man, The Myth, The Music

Robert Joe published the 75-page book 'Elvis Presley Biography: The Man, The Myth, The Music'. 

Description: Elvis Presley was a trustworthy indicator of the society he was raised in, much more than just a cultural icon. Elvis Preluded the cultural upheavals of the 1960s and 1970s by initiating a dynastic shift in American culture. 

And a lot of it happened, he admits, by chance. Elvis was usually the first to inquire as to why there was such a commotion around his performances. Elvis naively said that he was simply doing what came naturally when asked whether he was aiming to elicit a reaction from his audience. 

As much as James Dean was a “rebel without a cause,” Elvis said that he was just a "rebel by mistake". If he's telling the truth, then all he accomplished to get famous was only a random cosmic alignment. Elvis said that his only goal in going into Sun Records to record his first song was to record a song for his mother's birthday, rather than to become famous. 

As you read about the life, legend, and undeniable icon that is Elvis Presley, you will be able to make your own judgement. Learn about a variety of subjects, including Elvis and his twin, Presley's contentious ascent, Elvis enlists in the Army,

his return to Las Vegas, and eventually is death and a lot more.

(Source: Graceland magazine / FECC / Amazon / Elvis Information Network)

April 27 - Charts April 2024 - Week 4 (Updated)

The 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits held on to last week's position on the U.S. Billboard charts. On the official U.K. charts the album won a few spots. The 'ELVIS' made a re-entry on the U.K. charts. 

On a side-note, the 'Priscilla' bounced back on the Blu-ray chart from #72 to #8.

Official U.K. charts:

• Official Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' climbed from #48 to #40. 
• Official Streaming Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' climbed from #37 to #28. 
• Official Film chart: 'ELVIS' makes a re-entry at #26.
• Official Film chart: 'ELVIS' makes a re-entry at #26
• Official DVD chart: 'ELVIS' climbed from #87 to #85.
• Official DVD chart: 'Priscilla' dropped from #17 to #31.
• Official Blu-ray chart: 'Priscilla' rebounced from #72 to #11.
• Official Video chart: 'Priscilla' clim bed from #22 to #13.
• Official Video chart: 'ELVIS' dropped from #96 to #97.
• Official Films On Disc chart: 'Priscilla' climbed from #19 to #12.

Irish IRMA charts: 

• Official Irish Album chart: 'ELV1S 30#1 Hits' climbed from #92 to #78. 
• Official Irish Video chart: 'ELVIS' dropped from #27 to #40.
• Official Irish Video chart: 'Priscilla' climbed from #14 to #13.

Billboard charts:   

• Billboard Top 200 Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' remained steady at #196.
• Billboard Top Country Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' dropped from #32 to #36. 
• Billboard Top Rock and Alternative Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' remained steady at #47. 

No. 1!

Last week Elvis author and radio presenter Matt Shepherd invited me to share my Top 3 favorite Elvis Presley songs on his Golden Years radio show. A week later the show is No. 1 in both the fifties and sixties chart on Sound Cloud! 

Besides Elvis, Little Richard provides some more music from the Rock and Roll Heaven. There's mini chart countdowns from 1957 and 1962. Petula Clark takes us "Downtown" for our Easy Listening Moment. There's a battle of the bands featuring The Beatles v The Beach Boys. Who is the best? Have your say! Plus it's back to 1958 for our "smoochie at the end of the show". The great days are back again!

Listen to the show >>> here. 

The Memphis Flash

Talking about radio shows. This is for my Dutch speaking friends. After King's Day in The Netherlands you can listen to The King, and a my wrap-up of the latest Elvis news on the Elvis Extra Radio show with Fred van Veen.

Listen to the show >>> here. 

(Source: Official Charts / U.K. Mix / Billboard/ IRMA)

April 26 - Elvis Winter In Vegas

The Elvis One import record label announced the May 1st 2024 release if the CDs 'Elvis | Winter in Vegas 1970 - 1973', a new double album with recordings from January and February 1970, 1971, 1972 and 1973. Also due is the additional "Special Edition" album 'Elvis | Winter In Vegas 1970 - 1973'. 

Publicity stated: A great collection of 49 tracks with many highlights! Only 8 of those tracks were officially released before! All tracks presented in the best possible sound quality (with respect to how the original recording was recorded). Most of these recordings are soundboard recordings with very good sound.

Featuring recordings from February 1970 (including monologues that have been omitted on many releases) +++ some great tracks with Elvis on piano and Elvis on electric guitar +++ recordings from the opening show from January 1971 and January 1972 +++ a rehearsal recording of ' Separate Ways' from 1973 +++ Recordings from January 27 and February 2, 1973 +++ a beautiful version of 'What Now My Love' with spoken part +++ the extended version of 'I'm Leavin' It Up To You' as originally released on the album 'Leavin' It Up To You' from the Audifön Records label (AFNS-66173) released in 1980.

A total of 41 officially unreleased tracks from Elvis at work  in Las Vegas, Nevada. A perfect addition to the official releases.

CD 1: Elvis Talks (19.02.1970 DS) - Don’t Cry Daddy (19.02.1970 DS) - Elvis Talks (19.02.1970 DS) - Let It Be Me (19.02.1970 DS) - I Can’t Stop Loving You (19.02.1970 DS) - Elvis Talks (19.02.1970 DS) - Walk A Mile In My Shoes (19.02.1970 DS) - Elvis Talks (19.02.1970 DS) - Polk Salad Annie (16.02.1970 MS) - Blueberry Hill (Elvis On Piano - 23.02.1970 CS) - Lawdy Miss Clawdy (Elvis On Piano - 23.02.1970 CS) - Heartbreak Hotel (23.02.1970 CS) - Elvis Talks (23.02.1970 CS) - One Night (Elvis On Electric Guitar - 23.02.1970 CS) - It’s Now Or Never (Elvis On Electric Guitar - 23.02.1970 CS) - Suspicious Minds (23.02.1970 CS) - Elvis Talks (26.01.1971 OS) - Love Me Tender (26.01.1971 OS) - Johnny B. Goode (26.01.1971 OS) - Band Introductions (26.01.1971 OS) - The Wonder Of You (26.01.1971 OS) - Elvis Introduces Hal B. Wallis (26.01.1971 OS) - Can’t Help Falling In Love (26.01.1971 OS) - Make The World Go Away (26.01.1971 OS) - Something (26.01.1971 OS) - Something (Reprise - 26.01.1971 OS) - See See Rider (2nd Part Only - 26.01.1972 OS) - Proud Mary (26.01.1972 OS) - Never Been To Spain (26.01.1972 OS).

CD 2: I’ll Remember You (26.01.1972 OS) - Little Sister / Get Back (26.01.1972 OS) - All Shook Up (26.01.1972 OS) - Teddy Bear / Don’t Be Cruel (26.01.1972 OS) - A Big Hunk O’ Love (26.01.1972 OS) - Bridge Over Troubled Water (26.01.1972 OS) - Separate Ways (26.01.1973 Rehearsal) - Also Sprach Zarathustra (27.01.1973 MS) - See See Rider (27.01.1973 MS) - I Got A Woman / Amen (27.01.1973 MS) - Until It’s Time For You To Go (27.01.1973 MS) - You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me (27.01.1973 MS) - What Now My Love (With Spoken Part - 23.02.1973 CS) - Steamroller Blues (02.02.1973 MS) - You Gave Me A Mountain (02.02.1973 MS) - I Can’t Stop Loving You (27.01.1973 MS) - An American Trilogy (27.01.1973 MS) - Can’t Help Falling In Love (27.01.1973 MS) - Closing Vamp (27.01.1973 MS) - I’m Leaving It All Up To You (Extended Version - 25.01.1973 Rehearsal).

 

All tracks officially previously unreleased with the exception of CD 1 tracks 10 - 16 and CD 2 tracks 1 and 6.

As a "Special Edition" Elvis One presents an additional album of 'Elvis | Winter In Vegas 1970 - 1973' with more recordings from January and February 1970, 1971, 1972 and 1973. This double album presents a total of 49 tracks (including 37 tracks officially previously unreleased). All tracks presented in the best possible sound quality (again with respect to how the original recording was recorded). 

On this release you'll find a great selection of soundboard recordings, a complete sound booth recording and a few good sounding audience recordings - including Elvis attacked on stage (February 18, 1973) and Elvis leaving the stage for about 20 minutes (February 15, 1973).

Featuring recordings from opening night January 1970 (including a part of Sammy Shore's comedy act that have been omitted on many releases) +++ 4 tracks from January 27 & 28, 1971 +++ recordings from the closing show, February 1971 and opening show January 1972 +++ recordings from the show were Elvis leaving the stage for about 20 minutes (February 15, 1973) +++ Elvis attacked on stage +++ 'Welcome To My World' (1973 rehearsal) +++ special announcement after the show +++ a complete and audio restored - good sounding - sound booth recording.

A perfect addition to the first album of 'Elvis | Winter In Vegas 1970 - 1973'.

CD 1: Comedy Act By Sammy Shore (26.01.1970 OS) - Intro (26.01.1970 OS) - All Shook Up (26.01.1970 OS) - Elvis Talks (26.01.1970 OS) - True Love Travels On A Gravel Road (26.01.1970 OS) - Also Sprach Zarathustra (27.01.1971 MS) - That’s All Right (27.01.1971 MS) - Mystery Train / Tiger Man (23.02.1971 CS) - Johnny B .Goode (23.02.1971 CS) - How Great Thou Art (23.02.1971 CS) - Don’t Be Cruel (23.02.1971 CS) - Heartbreak Hotel (23.02.1971 CS) - Coming Home Baby (Instrumental - 28.01.1971 MS) - The Impossible Dream (28.01.1971 MS) - Until It’s Time For You To Go (26.01.1972 OS) - Polk Salad Annie (26.01.1972 OS) - Love Me (26.01.1972 OS) - One Night (26.01.1972 OS) - Hound Dog (26.01.1972 OS) - Welcome To My World (25.01.1973 Rehearsal) - Fever / Elvis Leaving Stage (15.02.1973 DS) - Elvis Returns To Stage / Can’t Help Falling In Love (15.02.1973 DS) - Closing Vamp (Part) / Elvis Continues Show / Faded Love (15.02.1973 DS) - I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry (15.02.1973 DS)

CD 2 - 23.02.1973 CS: Also Sprach Zarathustra - See See Rider - I Got A Woman / Amen - Love Me Tender - You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me - Steamroller Blues - You Gave Me A Mountain - Fever - Elvis Talks - Love Me - Blue Suede Shoes - Hound Dog - What Now My Love (With Spoken Part) - Suspicious Minds - Band and Celebrities Introductions - I’ll Remember You - I Can’t Stop Loving You - An American Trilogy - Elvis Talks - Can’t Help Falling In Love - Closing Vamp - Announcement (15.02.1973 DS) - Suspicous Minds (18.02.1973 MS) - Instrumental Track / Elvis Attacked On Stage (18.02.1973 MS) - I Can’t Stop Loving You (18.02.1973 MS).

All tracks on CD 2 are officially previously unreleased.

Elvis Video News Report

Here is Emiel Maiers May 2024 Elvis News report video, the best video in the history of the channel according to the maker. The report includes an explanation how Lisa Marie prevented Priscilla from being buried at Graceland, The exhibition at the Ryman Auditorium, The Elvis Top 10 on Spotify, Gilaan Gaar’s new book, Elvis and Vera Tschechowa and much more ....

Released

The Straight Arrow import record label released of the CD 'The King In The City of Six Flags' containing an audience recording of the Wednesday, June 20 1973 tour Opening performance as recorded at the Municipal Auditorium, Mobile, AL.

(Source: Various / Emiel Maier)

April 25 - More Fire From Toledo

Following the announcement of the digital release of 'On Fire In Toledo - 1956' the Memphis Recording Service released 2024 release of a physical edition of 'On Fire In Toledo - 1956'.

Publicity stated: This stunning set is available in our very collectable combi 7-inch gatefold 45rpm EP (Extended Play) vinyl single, housed together with a sleeved CD EP single.

This unique packaging, designed and created by MRS, comprises on the inside left panel a CD wallet inserted into a slot and on the right panel a vinyl 45rpm 7-inch EP single. The 45rpms will be available in both green and pink vinyl versions. These are limited editions and are not available on mainstream online and stores. A 'Limited Edition' CD single only version is also available. All tracks available for the first time ever and are previously unreleased.

Recently discovered interview plus 3 live tracks from Elvis' appearance in Toledo Ohio on November 22nd, 1956. 

Although Elvis’ unique performance was very poorly recorded and had distortion and imperfections, our professional engineer’s mastering efforts have made vast improvements including correction of pitch speed, reduction of hiss, removal of radio host Ron Ross talking over while Elvis is performing and overall clarity.

Though every effort has been made to achieve optimum sound quality, priority Is given to its historical content.

Tracks Elvis Presley: On Fire In Toledo - 1956 Sports Arena Toledo, OHIO - 22nd November 1956 (2:30pm) 45 RPM Extended Play Vinyl:
Side A: Radio WOWO Ron Ross Interviews Elvis / Heartbreak Hotel
Side B: Long Tall Sally / Don‘t Be Cruel (Incomplete)

CD Single EP: Radio WOWO Ron Ross Interviews Elvis / Introduction / Heartbreak Hotel / Long Tall Sally / Don‘t Be Cruel (Incomplete)

For those who want to enjoy this new live material, scroll down below, the original recording was published on YouTube by one of the persons involved in the discovery of the recordings. 

(Source: Elvis Information Network)

April 24 - Rock and Roll Generation

Due for release early May 2024 from the Rock and Roll Generation are the French magazines 'Elvis Presley 1935 - 1955 L'Enfant Divin' and 'Elvis Presley 1956 - 1958 Le King'. 

More information when available.

Elvis On Fire In Toledo

Due for release on digital platforms from the Memphis Recording Service on April 25, 2024 is 'On Fire In Toledo - 1956'. 

It features a recently discovered interview and three new live performances from November 22, 1956. Part of the interview was available from Keith Flynn's Elvis Presley website and the recent ElvisOne CD 'Legendary Elvis'.

Tracks: Radio Wowo Interview by Ron Ross / Introduction / Heartbreak Hotel / Long Tall Sally / Don't Be Cruel (incomplete).

Number One Essentials

Due for re-release on June 1 2024 from the Number One Essentials record label is the compilation LP 'Elvis Presley - Number One U.S. Singles: 1956 - 1962'. The 180 Gr. LP  comes housed in gatefold sleeve.  It was previously released by the Pan Am record label in 2016.

Description: This compilation collects all of the King's singles that reached number one on the US pop charts between 1956 and 1962. As bonus tracks it contains two No. 1 hits on the UK Pop Chart

Side A: Heartbreak Hotel - I Want You, I Need You, I Love You - Hound Dog - Don`t Be Cruel - Love Me Tender - Too Much - All Shook Up - (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear - Jailhouse Rock

Bonus Song: That's All Right Mama

Side B: Don't - Hard Headed Woman - A Big Hunk O'Love - Stuck On You - It's Now Or Never - Are You Lonesome Tonight? - Surrender - Good Luck Charm

Bonus Song: One Night.

Elvis, “Rocky” and Me

BearManor Media published the 252-page paperback and hardcover memoir 'Elvis, “Rocky” and Me'.

Synopsis: Carol Connors has lived her dream and she shares her remarkable success story in her wild ride memoir Elvis, “Rocky” and Me.

As an entertainer Carol has done it all with her singer/songwriter talents recognized with two Oscar, five Emmy, one Grammy and two Golden Globe nominations, along with a wall in her home proudly decorated with the gold and platinum records she’s received.

Carol is one of the female pioneers of music for film and television. She made her mark in music at age 16 when she recorded the hit song To Know Him Is to Love Him. The enormous success of that song was the start of a career that is still going strong. She has written music for Dionne Warwick and Billy Preston and has seen her songs covered by Mariah Carey and John Legend. Among Carol’s proudest accomplishments is her co-writing the Oscar-nominated theme Gonna Fly Now for the blockbuster film Rocky.

Carol’s personal life is every bit as fascinating as her show business career. While she never chose to marry, she’s dated such famous names as Elvis Presley, Robert Culp and David Janssen. Today, she continues to lead an active and productive lifestyle with her dedicated charity work and taking time to enjoy even the simple pleasures.

Carol’s story is not only an entertaining read, but stands as an inspiration to anyone hoping to reach and even exceed their own dreams.

Mythologies and Apocrypha

Elvis Presley is featured on the cove of Tim Lane's 'Mythologies and Apocrypha #1' comic book. 

Publicity stated: Acclaimed cartoonist Tim Lane debuts a new, ongoing series exploring the good, the bad, and the ugly of 20th century masculinity through a head spinning blend of fact and fiction featuring Elvis, Frank Sinatra, Walter Cronkite, and others — culminating in a quick-draw shootout on Mars between Steve McQueen, Johnny Cash, and Sammy Davis Jr. This all-new series showcases Lane's meticulous and jaw-dropping artistry — a level of detail echoing illustrative legends like Frank Frazetta, Alex Raymond, and Dave Stevens.

(Source: Facebook / Elvis Club Berlin / FantaGraphics / Fox News / Amazon)

Golden Years Radio Show

Elvis author and radio presenter Matt Shepherd invited me to share my Top 3 favorite Elvis Presley songs on his Golden Years radio show. 

Besides Elvis, Little Richard provides some more music from the Rock & Roll Heaven. There's mini chart countdowns from 1957 and 1962. Petula Clark takes us "Downtown" for our Easy Listening Moment. There's a battle of the bands featuring The Beatles v The Beach Boys. Who is the best? Have your say! Plus it's back to 1958 for our "smoochie at the end of the show". The great days are back again!

Listen to the show >>> here. 

The show is currently in the Top 10 in both the 1950s and 1960s on the global Soundcloud charts. Let's see if we can get this to No. 1!

April 23 - A Hawaiian Vinyl Songbook

The V180 record label released the LP 'Elvis Presley - Songbook with Friends'. This Limited Edition comes on 180 Gr. blue-green-yellow colored vinyl. More information when available. 

Hawaii 1973

Due for release from the Coda Records label on May 31, 2024 on red colored vinyl is the double 10-inch set 'Hawaii 1973'. 

Publicity stated: A live concert to me is exciting because of all the electricity that is generated in the crowd and on stage. It’s my favourite part of the business.’ – Elvis Presley.

The stellar live performance featured on this record is a moment of brilliance. This is the soundtrack of the satellite broadcast of Elvis’ concert special from Hawaii on 14 January 1973. This was arguably his final moment of genius.

Featuring many classics from Elvis’ incredible catalogue, the 22 songs he performed included Blue Suede Shoes, Hound Dog and An American Trilogy.

The broadcast was seen by approximately 1.3 billion people in 36 countries and remains a fan favourite that clearly demonstrates the talent and charisma of the man they call ‘The King’ – Elvis Presley.

Limited to just 500 numbered copies.

Side One

2001: A Space Odyssey

See See Rider

Burnin’ Love

Something

You Gave Me a Mountain

Side Two

Steamroller Blues

My Way

Love Me

Johnny B. Goode

It’s Over

Blue Suede Shoes

I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry

Side Three

I Can’t Stop Loving You

Hound Dog

What Now My Love

Fever

Welcome to My World

Suspicious Minds

Side Four

I’ll Remember You

Long Tall Sally / Whole Lotta Shakin’

An American Trilogy

Big Hunk O’ Love

Can’t Help Falling in Love

(Source: Amazon / Pascal Matteo)

April 22 - That's Allright - 70th Anniversary Edition

Graceland announces the June 14, 2024 release of the exclusive 70th Anniversary Collector’s Edition Of 'That’s All Right'.

Publicity stated: July 5, 1954, marked a pivotal moment in music history. In a small recording studio owned by Sam Phillips at 706 Union Avenue in Memphis, Tennessee, an obscure young singer by the name of Elvis Presley started a revolution. Backed by guitarist Scotty Moore and bassist Bill Black, Elvis’ rendition of Arthur “Big Boy” Crudup’s 'That’s All Right' ignited the career of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll and changed the landscape of music forever.

Seven decades later, Elvis’ legacy is as vibrant and influential as ever, continuing to captivate and inspire generations around the globe. In honor of the 70th anniversary of this iconic recording that changed it all, Graceland is offering a limited-edition single sided collector’s 10-inch vinyl single of Elvis’ earliest take of 'That All Right' from that July night in 1954 at Memphis Recording Service. 

Fans can now pre-order their collector’s edition of 'That’s All Right' single through ShopGraceland.com. The collector’s edition vinyl single will also be available for purchase on-site at Graceland in mid-June, pending availability following pre-orders.

Note: shipping for European fans is more than the price of the single ... once again Graceland seems to forget that the majority of the Elvis fans lives outside the United States. 

(Source: Graceland)

April 20 - Record Store Day 2024

Today marks Record Store Day 2024, with two official 'Record Store Day' releases from the French V.P.I. record label: 'I'm Counting On Them' and 'Elvis Styles'.

Details 'I'm Counting On Them': This album brings together two singer-songwriters, both pianists, who made a remarkable contribution to the work and career of the King. 

While Otis Blackwell excelled in Rock 'n' Roll, of which he was one of the great craftsmen (providing Elvis with no less than three number 1 hits), Don Robertson, on the other hand, was a master in the art of the ballad (several of his compositions would appear on the B-sides of successful singles). Two exceptional artists who deserve a place in the Music Pantheon! 

The LP is available from the >>> V.P.I online store here.

Details 'Elvis Styles': In 1960, the renowned composer Leonard Bernstein said, "Elvis Presley is the greatest cultural force of the 20th century... He introduced rhythm into everything and changed it all, music, language, clothes. It's an entirely new social revolution from which the '60s emerged." 

And it's true that Elvis could sing anything! This triple album features no less than 54 tracks, the majority of which are alternate versions. A unique compilation, never before realized, that is truly exceptional, showcasing the various facets of the artist.

The LP is available from the >>> V.P.I online store here.

Both CDs are also available in CD editions.

Note: the LP's were already available a week before the "official" RSD release date.

April 20 - Charts April 2024 - Week 3

  

The 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits dropped (big time) on the U.S. Billboard charts. On the official U.K. charts the album won a few spots.

On a side-note,  the 'Priscilla' movie could not hold on the the Top 10 and Top 3 positions on the various movie charts, slipping down to the middle and lower regions already in the second week.

Official U.K. charts:

• Official Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' climbed from #52 to #48. 
• Official Streaming Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' remained steady at #37.
• Official DVD chart: 'ELVIS' remained steady at #87.
• Official DVD chart: 'Priscilla' dropped from #3 to #17.
• Official Blu-ray chart: 'Priscilla' dropped from #8 to #72.
• Official Video chart: 'Priscilla' dropped from #3 to #22.
• Official Video chart: 'ELVIS' dropped from #90 to #96.
• Official Films On Disc chart: 'Priscilla' dropped from #3 to #19.
• Official Music DVD chart: 'Elvis The Searcher' dropped from #10 to #46.
• Official Physical Singles chart: 'Welcome Home Elvis' dropped from #51 to #64. 

Irish IRMA charts: 

• Official Irish Album chart: 'ELV1S 30#1 Hits' dropped from #88 to #92. 
• Official Irish Video chart: 'ELVIS' dropped from #25 to #27.
• official Irish Video chart: 'Priscilla' dropped from #5 to #14.

Billboard charts:   

• Billboard Top 200 Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' dropped from #167 to #196.
• Billboard Top Country Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' dropped from #31 to #32. 
• Billboard Top Rock and Alternative Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' dropped from #39 top #47. 

(Source: Official Charts / U.K. Mix / Billboard/ IRMA)

April 19 - Elvis Seventy Three

The ReelTrax import record label announced the release of the double CD set 'Elvis Seventy Three' featuring the August 7, 1973 Midnight Show, and September 3, 1973 Closing Show performances.

Publicity stated: ReelTrax is back with another great 2-CD release, actually the first one in 2024! After the great success of our recent vinyl release ''68 Unleashed' which has sold out very quickly we now present a completely new CD project!

'Elvis Seventy Three' is a 2-disc set with two complete shows from Elvis' August 1973 engagement at the Hilton Hotel in Las Vegas: On the first disc of this set you will be able to step back in time with Elvis Presley’s Closing Night performance from September 3, 1973. For the first time, experience this iconic show which easily can be seen as one of the most unusual performances of Elvis´ career in correct speed and superior sound quality, thanks to a meticulous Matrix Mix of soundboard and audience recordings. This new mix reveals intricacies and audience interactions previously unheard, capturing the King of Rock and Roll in his element. 

The Closing Night concert is renowned for its humorous touch, for instance, when Elvis had a toy monkey on his back (all through the first two songs of the show) while being carried on stage on the back of Lamar Fike. Or when a red velvet bed had been placed on stage during the show with Elvis sitting on it while singing 'What Now My Love' and pretending to "search" for his love in the bed. And finally when he totally mixed up the music and lyrics of 'Suspicious Minds' and 'Bridge Over Troubled Water', probably just because he wanted to fool his musicians (we called that 'Suspicious Bridge' and gave it its own track on the CD). 

But the concert is also known for its heartfelt and rare performances like 'Help Me Make It Through The Night', 'Softly As I Leave You' and a fantastic 'How Great Thou Art' with multiple reprises, among others. 

Additionally, to make sure the content of this CD is 100% the “real” Closing Night show we did not use the first 6 songs from the soundboard of the dinner show of the same date (which has been done this way before on an earlier release of the show), but chose to include them from an ambiance recording which has been made at Closing Night. It’s a pity that those first six songs have not been recorded on soundboard back in 1973.

CD 2 presents the Midnight Show from August 7, 1973, sourced from an ambiance recording which offers a very good sound. Elvis himself mentioned during the concert that he and his band were enjoying their time on stage, which led him to extend his performance, adding a personal touch to this memorable evening. 

One of only two versions of 'Funny How Time Slips Away', sung during the August 1973 season, and 'Faded Love', performed live for its fourth and final time are real highlights. 

But actually the set-lists of both shows in this 2-CD set contrast the energy from the beginning to the end of Elvis’s stint, highlighting both his serious and playful side on stage. The show on CD 2 has previously been released at a wrong speed on ‘Top Acts in Vegas’ 28 years ago. This corrected version now allows fans to hear Elvis as he truly sounded, making it a pivotal release for collectors and new fans alike. 

Enhance your Elvis collection with this definitive edition, featuring no less than a variety of 9 bonus tracks that underscore rare moments and the fun Elvis had during the Las Vegas Summer season of 1973.

CD 1: September 3, 1973 – Closing Show, Las Vegas Hilton Hotel (Matrix Recording*): See See Rider - I Got A Woman / Amen - Love Me - Steamroller Blues - You Gave Me A Mountain - Trouble - Rock Medley - Love Me Tender - Fever - What Now My Love - Suspicious Bridge - Bridge Over Troubled Water - Suspicious Minds - Introductions Of Band And Celebrities - My Boy - I Can’t Stop Loving You - An American Trilogy - A Big Hunk O Love - The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face - Mystery Train - Tiger Man - How Great Thou Art (Two Reprises) - Help Me Make It Through The Night - Softly As I Leave You - Can’t Help Falling In Love / Closing Vamp

*Tracks 1 to 6 were sourced from an ambiance recording, as these songs were not on the soundboard tape

CD 2: August 7, 1973 – Midnight Show, Las Vegas Hilton Hotel (Ambiance Recording): Also Sprach Zarathustra - See See Rider - I Got A Woman / Amen - Love Me - Steamroller Blues - You Gave Me A Mountain - Trouble - Blue Suede Shoes - Rock Medley - Love Me Tender - Fever - Bridge Over Troubled Water (Two False Starts) - Suspicious Minds - Introductions - My Boy - I Can’t Stop Loving You - An American Trilogy - Release Me - Mystery Train / Tiger Man - Funny How Time Slips Away - Faded Love - Can’t Help Falling In Love / Closing Vamp

Bonus tracks:

Make The World Go Away (August 8, 1973 MS) - Tiger Man (August 11, 1973 MS) - Crying Time (August 12, 1973 MS) - Amazing Grace (August 14, 1973 DS) - Something (August 23, 1973 DS) - It’s A Matter Of Time (August 25, 1973 MS) - Johnny B. Goode (August 26, 1973 MS) - My Boy (False Start) - Release Me - My Boy (August 28, 1973 MS) - You Gave Me A Mountain (September 2, 1973 DS).

Note: The August 7th Dinner Show was previously released as 'Top Acts in Vegas 6' by the Top Acts import record label (1995). The September 3, 1973 Closing Show was previously released as 'Closing Show' by the Follow That Dream collectors label (soundboard, 2004) and as 'The Funny Side Of Elvis' by the Claudia records import label (audience recording, 1995).

Trevor O'Sullivan Died

Elvis super-fan Trevor O'Sullivan has died. His Mother posted..

"Trevor passed away last night peacefully in his sleep. Please those of you that have faith please pray for us as a family."

Dublin based O'Sullivan was a journalist who had a passion for Elvis. He described himself as "A passionate fan of Elvis, who through his Facebook group was constantly debunking fake Elvis history. I am passionate about fans of the future being left a legacy of truth. The Elvis story doesn’t need embellishment as it’s a fascinating rags to riches tale."

Read some of his thoughts on Elvis >>> here 'His Truth Goes Marching On: The Living Legacy of Elvis Presley'. And see his popular Facebook Group >>> 'Elvis Presley. His Truth Is Marching On'.

Silver Record Award

The 'G.I. Blues' soundtrack album was certified "Silver" by the British Phonographic Industries (B.P.I.) for selling over 60,000 copies since its (re)release on May 31, 2005.

Happy Birthday!

Estelle Brown, the last surviving original member of The Sweet Inspirations backing group that toured with Elvis until 1977, turned 81 today, congratulations! 

From Poverty to Millionaire as a Musician

History 4 Teens published the 129 page hardcover book 'Elvis Presley: From Poverty to Millionaire as a Musician'.  

Synopsis: Throughout his career, Elvis Presley amassed an impressive estimated fortune of US$100 million from varied sources such as record sales, movie earnings, and merchandise. Adjusted for inflation, this sum would approximate to over $490 million in today's dollars.

We invite you to explore this biography of Elvis Presley. Key Features:

• Good for Book Reports! Contains a Lot of Facts!
• Covers Elvis' Birth to Death, including his lasting legacy!
• Unique sketches in Every Chapter! To Keep the reader entertained!
• A Great Gift! A concise and rewarding read about a GREAT MAN!
• Includes a Free Bonus Inside! Gifts to Reward You!

(Source: Reel Trax / Elvis In Concert / Elvis On CD / Amazon / Elvis Information Network)

April 18 - Studio Memories 1973

Hot on the heels of the 'Live Anthology 1973, featuring live highlights recorded during shows at the Las Vegas Hilton and Dell Webb’s Sahara in 1973 follows the Redemption import record label gives us the double LP 'Studio Anthology 1973'. 

This set, housed in a Deluxe Gatefold sleeve and available on 180 Gr. blue, red or clear colored vinyl, contains 25 tracks recorded in the studio in 1973. The set also includes the music on a bonus CD. 

Publicity stated: Now available is this double vinyl album full of studio highlights recorded during 1973. 25 great tracks including highlights like 'My Boy', 'Promised Land' and 'Spanish Eyes'. 

All tracks are painstakingly remastered. This fantastic double album is presented as a deluxe gatefold album and available in red / blue or clear vinyl. This strictly limited edition vinyl release also includes a bonus CD featuring the LP tracks.

Side A: You Asked Me To (Take 2a, Unfaded) - Promised Land (Take 1) - It’s Midnight (Take 10 With Backing Vocals) - Are You Sincere (Take 1) - Good Time Charlie’s Got The Blues (Take 8, Unfaded) - If That Isn’t Love (Take 1) - If That Isn’t Love (Rehearsal & Take 2).

Side B: If You Don’t Come Back (Take 4) - I Got A Feelin' In My Body (Rehearsal Before Take 2) - I Got A Feelin' In My Body (Take 6 & 7) - Three Corn Patches (Take 2, Unfaded) - It’s Midnight (Take 11) - Thinking About You (Rehearsal & Complete Take 4).

LP 2 - Side C: Your Love’s Been A Long Time Coming (Take 4, Unedited) - I Miss You (Take 10) - There’s A Honky Tonk Angel (Take 1 - 3) - Sweet Angeline (Vocal Overdub To Track) - My Boy (Take 3, Undubbed Master).

Side D: Love Song Of The Year (Undubbed Master) - Talk About The Good Times (Unedited Master) - Spanish Eyes (Take 4, Undubbed Master) - If You Talk In Your Sleep (Take 9, Unedited Undubbed Master) - Promised Land (Harmony Vocal Overdub) - Help Me (False Start & Take 1, Undubbed Master) - It’s Different Now (Rehearsal).

CD: You Asked Me To (Take 2a, Unfaded) - Promised Land (Take 1) - It’s Midnight (Take 10 With Backing Vocals) - Are You Sincere (Take 1) - Good Time Charlie’s Got The Blues (Take 8, Unfaded) - If That Isn’t Love (Take 1) - If That Isn’t Love (Rehearsal & Take 2) - If You Don’t Come Back (Take 4) - I Got A Feelin’ In My Body (Rehearsal Before Take 2) - I Got A Feelin' In My Body (Take 6 & 7) - Three Corn Patches (Take 2, Unfaded) - It’s Midnight (Take 11) - Thinking About You (Rehearsal & Complete Take 4) - Your Love’s Been A Long Time Coming (Take 4, Unedited) - I Miss You (Take 10) - There’s A Honky Tonk Angel (Take 1 - 3) - Sweet Angeline (Vocal Overdub To Track) - My Boy (Take 3, Undubbed Master) - Love Song Of The Year (Undubbed Master) - Talk About The Good Times (Unedited Master) - Spanish Eyes (Take 4, Undubbed Master) - If You Talk In Your Sleep (Take 9, Unedited Undubbed Master) - Promised Land (Harmony Vocal Overdub) - Help Me (False Start & Take 1, Undubbed Master) - It’s Different Now (Rehearsal).

Note: All tracks have previously been released on CD and / or vinyl, on officially, on the Follow That Dream collector's label and on bootlegs. 

Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday to Glen D. Hardin, Elvis' former piano player and arranger (1970 - 1976). Today Glenn celebrates that he is 85 years young.

On Facebook Hardin posted: "Thank you for the many birthday wishes! 85 and still rockin' and rolling, a little bit. Thank you! I'm in Milan with many wonderful friends and incredibly grateful today. 🙏 ❤️"

Memories of Vinyl

Due for release soon on green or clear vinyl from the Victory import record label is the LP / 2-CD-set 'Our Memories of Elvis Volume 3', marking the vinyl debut of this title. The LP contains 14 songs, the CDs 36 songs.

Publicity stated: After the untimely death of Elvis in August 1977 Elvis' record company quickly reissued a big part of the Elvis catalogue on vinyl. The demand was obviously huge and the staff had to work overtime. The last album released during Elvis’ lifetime was ‘Moody Blue’. 

Between all reissues, ‘Elvis in Concert’ (the last “planned” Elvis album) was released. The double album was awarded Gold and Platinum in October 1977. 

After ‘Elvis in Concert’ a lot of compilations and special product albums were released, but Joan Deary definitely felt the fans were in need for something special. She released ‘a legendary performer volume 3’ containing some unreleased tracks. 

Shortly after 'A Legendary Performer' she produced the excellent release ‘Our Memories Of Elvis’ in February 1979. The album claimed to contain tracks without additional accompaniment, but for real the album featured stripped down versions, not the undubbed masters that the fans thought they were listening to. Although not being as big of a seller as expected, the album has always been a fan favorite and paved the road for a 'volume 2' and for later releases like the ‘Elvis Aaron Presley’ box set and ‘Greatest Hits Volume 1’. A volume 3 of 'Our Memories Of Elvis' was planned but never realized, until now! 

This release includes two bonus CDs, containing the LP tracks and many bonus tracks. This is the pure Elvis!

Side A: Hurt - If You Don’t Come Back - It’s A Matter Of Time - Woman Without Love - Sweet Angeline - Shake A Hand - The Last Farewell

Side B: Promised Land - Heart Of Rome - When I’m Over You - For Ol’ Times Sake - Mr. Songman - Moody Blue - If That Isn’t Love

CD 1: Hurt - If You Don’t Come Back - It’s A Matter Of Time - Woman Without Love - Sweet Angeline - Shake A Hand - The Last Farewell - Promised Land - Heart Of Rome - When I’m Over You - For Ol’ Times Sake - Mr. Songman - Moody Blue - If That Isn’t Love (Undubbed Master) - Fool - Raised On Rock - Pledging My Love - Love Coming Down.

All selections are original stripped down versions except 'If That Isn’t Love' (original undubbed master).

CD 2: Shake A Hand - Pledging My Love - Woman Without Love - It’s A Matter Of   - Sweet Angeline - Promised Land - Heart Of Rome - If You Don’t Come Back (Rough Masters) - Love Coming Down - For Ol’ Times Sake (Rough Masters) - The Last Farewell - Mr. Songman - Raised On Rock (Rough Masters) - Fool - When I’m Over You - Moody Blue (No Backing Vocals) - Moody Blue - Hurt.

Hurt All selections are the original Undubbed Masters with live backing vocals except 8,10 & 13 which are Rough Masters.

Note: The Dutch It's Elvis Time released the original 'Our Memories of Elvis Volumes 1 + 2' LP's on CD (1988)

The Victrola import record label released remastered versions 'Our Memories of Elvis Vol. 1 and 2' and 'Our Memories of Elvis Vol. 3 - Unfinished Business' in 2010 and the Follow That Dream Collectors label released 'Our Memories of Elvis Vol. 1 - 3' in 2012. The same songs - with the exception 'If That Isn't Love' which was never part of the project, but the information on the exact versions can not yet be determined on the information from the press release. 

A Life In Music, Movies and Mania

Seifred Marcus published the 54-page biography 'Elvis Presley The Rock and Roll King: A Life In Music, Movies and Mania'.

Publicity stated: The King and the Contradictions that Forged a Legend

This book delves deeper than the rhinestone facade, exploring the triumphs and struggles that shaped Elvis Presley. You'll discover the shy young man from Mississippi who rose to become a global icon, and grappled with the internal battles he fought throughout his meteoric career.

Witness a Cultural Revolution: Elvis wasn't just a singer; he was a cultural phenomenon. This biography places him within the context of a changing America, showcasing how his music and image challenged social norms and ignited a generation.

Explore the Enduring Legacy: From the electrifying early years to the poignant complexities of his later life, this book explores the full arc of Elvis' story. You'll gain a deeper understanding of his impact on music, fashion, and popular culture, and discover why his legacy continues to resonate today.

What You'll Learn:

• The untold stories behind Elvis' meteoric rise to fame.
• The struggles and complexities that shaped the man behind the music.
• How Elvis' music and image challenged social norms and redefined popular culture.
• The enduring influence Elvis Presley continues to have on music and society.
• A deeper appreciation for the transformative power of music and the artistry of the King.
• All Shook Up is more than just a biography; it's an invitation to experience the electrifying world of Elvis Presley. So, grab your blue suede shoes and prepare to be captivated by the King's story.

(Source: Facebook / Elvis Club Berlin)