September 29 - Elvis and the Christmas Special

The Follow That Dream collectors label announced the release of the double LP 'Good Times - The Outtakes'.

Publicity stated: FTD Vinyl is pleased to announce the release of “Good Times - The Outtakes’ a special ‘numbered’ Limited 2-LP Edition of 3,500 copies on Ocean Blue colored vinyl.

FTD Vinyl’s first release in August, 2010 arrived long before the great vinyl revival of many years later. Due to the format’s modest sales back then, long-deleted FTD titles are now commanding high prices online and at record fairs.

To accommodate new vinyl collectors who missed out on some of these rare Elvis releases, FTD plans to reissue several key in-demand titles, starting with 'Good Times - The Outtakes'. 

Previously issued in August 2010, this collectible numbered edition’s new cover design is inspired by the 45 RPM single 'I’ve Got A Thing About You Baby'.

The LP is available from the >>> ElvisMatters webshop.

Side 1: Take Good Care of Her - rehearsal and take 1 / Loving Arms - take 1 and rehearsal / I Got a Feelin' in My Body - take 1 / If That Isn't Love - take 1 / She Wears My Ring - take 8 / I've Got a Thing about You, Baby - take 1 / My Boy - take 1 Elvis Presley

Side 2: Talk about the Good Times - take 3 / Spanish Eyes - takes 1, 2 / Good Time Charlie's Got the Blues - takes 7, 8 / I Got a Feelin' in My Body - take 4 / I've Got a Thing about You, Baby - take 14 / My Boy - take 2 / Take Good Care of Her - take 4.

Side 3: I've Got a Thing about You, Baby - takes 6, 8, 10, 11 / Loving Arms - take 2 / I Got a Feelin' in My Body - take 2 / Good Time Charlie's Got the Blues - takes 1, 4, 6 / Take Good Care of Her - takes 2, 3 / Spanish Eyes - take 4 (undubbed master).

Side 4: Talk about the Good Times - takes 1, 2 / Talk about the Good Times - take 4 (undubbed master) / She Wears My Ring - takes 1 - 7 / I Got a Feelin' in My Body - take 7 / My Boy - take 3 (undubbed master) / Good Time Charlie's Got the Blues - take 9 (unedited undubbed master) / If That Isn't Love - splice of takes 5 (LFS) and 7.

* Previously released in 2009 as 'Good Times – The Outtakes' (506020-975011)

Elvis Vinyl

The French LMLR / V.P.I. record label announced the November 14, 2025 release of the book / vinyl combo ‘Elvis Presley - Chante Avec Elvis’ (‘Sing With Elvis’) and the re-issue of the Japanese version of ‘Elvis’ Christmas Album’. 

Publicity for ‘Chante avec Elvis’ stated: The set is a one-time reproduction of the original release without any alterations, remastered for audiophile listeners and limited to 1,000 copies worldwide. The ‘Chante avec Elvis’ book contains the lyrics of Elvis’ songs so fans can sing along with Elvis. 

This new edition also includes a bonus CD ‘Christmas with Elvis’, featuring the complete Elvis' Christmas Album plus rare extras: vintage commercials, alternate versions, and a few surprises for true fans.

7-inch Single - Side A: White Christmas / Silent Night.

Side B: Blue Christmas / I Believe.

Bonus CD: Elvis' Christmas Album Commercial / Santa Claus Is Back In Town / White Christmas / Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane) / I'll Be Home For Christmas / Blue Christmas / Santa Bring My Baby Back (To Me) / O Little Town Of Bethlehem / Silent Night (With Christmas Message From Elvis) / (There'll Be) Peace In The Valley (For Me) / I Believe / Take My Hand, Precious Lord / It Is No Secret (What God Can Do) / I'll Be Home For Christmas (Give Elvis For Christmas) / Peace In The Valley (Take 4) / It Is No Secret (Take 5) / Peace In The Valley (Million Dollar Quartet, December 4, 1956) / Peace In The Valley (The Ed Sullivan Show, January 6, 1957) / I Want Elvis For Christmas - The Holly Twins with Eddie Cochran.

Publicity for ‘Elvis Christmas Album’ stated: The Japanese Edition of ‘Elvis’ Christmas Album’ debuts on tricolor vinyl. The 10-inch LP comes housed in a replica of the original sleeve on red green and white colored vinyl as a one-time-only pressing. The audio has been remastered for audiophile listeners. 

The Japanese LS5038 edition of ‘Elvis’ Christmas Album’ is a true treasure for Elvis fans and collectors. Highly sought after, it stands out for its carefully crafted sleeve and the distinctive design typical of Japanese pressings from the 1960s, making it an essential collector’s item. 

For the lucky few who own it, it can sell online for between US$800 and US$1,300. 

Today, here is the tricolor vinyl reissue – a perfect chance to add this jewel to your collection. The LP is limited to 1,000 copies worldwide. 

Side A: Santa Claus Is Back In Town / White Christmas / Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane) / I'll Be Home For Christmas / Blue Christmas / Santa Bring My Baby Back (To Me).

Side B: O Little Town Of Bethlehem / Silent Night / (There'll Be) Peace In The Valley (For Me) / I Believe / Take My Hand, Precious Lord / It Is No Secret (What God Can Do).

The LP is available from the >>> Bennies Fifties webshop.

Elvis and the Story of the '68 Special

Omnibus Press announced the May 19, 2026 re-release of Simon Goddard's 'Elvis and the Story of the '68 Special' as hardback and a softcover editions.  

Description of the 368-page book: As 1968 dawns, the once King of Rock 'n' Roll faces cultural oblivion. While elsewhere the Sixties are swinging, for Elvis they're sinking- in terrible films, drug addiction, paranoia, religious mania and the mercenary wiles of his psychopathic manager. In the words of the hip young director assigned to his first TV special, Elvis' reputation was "in the toilet." However the same director, Steve Binder, was now about to save it. Together they would embark on the biggest creative fight of Elvis' life.

'The Comeback' plots the incredible true story of Elvis' fall and rise from Army discharge to iconic black leather resurrection. Simon Goddard takes the reader inside the life, music and mind of Elvis, isolated from an America unravelling in its own Sixties chaos of war, racism, riots and assassinations, until his world and theirs collide in the greatest performance of his life.

A genre-busting modernist Rock 'n' Roll fable unlike any music biography you've ever read, 'The Comeback' is the definitive account of how it took Elvis eight years on the big screen to lose his crown - but just one magical hour on a small one to win it back.

You can read a review of the first edition on the >>> Elvis Information Network.

The book is available for pre-order from >>> Amazon (associate link).

It's Elvis Time

Issue 312 of the Dutch 'It's Elvis Time' will drop on the subscriber's doorsteps real soon. In this new issue, you'll read unique stories about Colonel Tom Parker, Elvis' manager, originally from the Netherlands; his life before Elvis, his time in America, and of course and of course his years as manager of The King are all covered in detail.

Also included is a special interview with writer Peter Guralnick, author of the recently published book 'The Colonel and The King'.

This issue also includes interesting reviews of 'Sunset Boulevard' and 'The Harum Scarum Sessions', and a wonderful story about the relationship between Elvis and Frank Sinatra. 

Want to become a member of It's Elvis Time? You can! Click >>> here to apply for membership.

The Audio Vaults record label released the CD 'Love Me Tender In Dayton: Live 1974'. 

Description: Rare and collectable recordings - digitally remastered. Classic recordings from 1974 recorded in Dayton, Ohio at the October 6th 1974, Evening Show, and two bonus songs from the Afternoon Show. The album includes Elvis Classics like 'Love Me Tender', 'Hound Dog', 'The Wonder of You', 'Heartbreak Hotel' and 'Can't Help Falling In Love'. 

Tracks: 1. See See Rider / 2. I Got A Woman - Amen / Love Me / If You Love Me (Let Me Know) / Fever / Big Boss Man / Love Me Tender / Hound Dog / The Wonder Of You / Blue Suede Shoes / Band Introductions / Lawdy Miss Clawdy / Band Introductions / All Shook Up / Teddy Bear - Don't Be Cruel / Heartbreak Hotel / Why Me, Lord / That's All Right / Blue Christmas / Let Me Be There / Hawaiian Wedding Song / Johnny B. Goode / Can't Help Falling In Love / Closing Vamp.

Bonus Tracks Afternoon Show Promised Land / You Gave Me A Mountain.

Note: This show was previously released on the bootleg CDs 'Breathing Out Fire' (Madison, 2000), 'A Day In Dayton' (Gravel Road Music, 2009) and 'Dayton Reloaded' (Boxcar 2009).

Preview or Spoiler?

On YouTube the first leaked fragments from Baz Luhrmann's 'EPiC - Elvis Presley in Concert' have been leaked. Decide yourself if you'd like to see the >>> "preview or spoiler".

(Source: Nigel Patterson / Amazon / YouTube / Vinyl Destination)

September 28 - Richard Sterban Battles Cancer

Richard Sterban, known by fans as a former member of J.D. Sumner & The Stamps Quartet and one of Elvis Presley's backing vocalists in the early 1970s, has announced that he is seriously ill. The 79-year-old singer is battling pancreatic cancer and is currently undergoing intensive treatment.

Sterban was part of The Stamps who accompanied Elvis during concerts and appeared in the 1972 film 'Elvis On Tour.' Reflecting on his time with the King of Rock and Roll, he later said: "It was a brief period in my life, but it felt like an enormous learning experience. Elvis was the biggest star in the world, and to sing and perform with him was an unimaginable experience.

In 1972, Sterban made the transition to The Oak Ridge Boys. Photo caption: Richard Sterban can be seen standing second from left in the photo.

In a recent statement, Sterban shared: "In March of this year, I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. I am under the care of the best doctors and with the Lord's help, I have confidence that I will get through this. The support of my fans means everything to me." 

(Source: ElvisMatters)

September 27 - Charts September 2025 - Week 4

Elvis Presley returned to the charts in the United States and is now listed on the charts at both sides of the Atlantic and has three different titles on the charts. 

The 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' album fell from No. 68 to No. 74 on the main U.K. Album chart, from No. 61 to No. 64 on the Streaming chart and from No. 60 to No. 65 on the nation's Chart Update chart. 

'From Elvis In Memphis - Live in 1974' debuted on the Independent Album chart at No. 44. 

Billboard Charts

'The Essential Elvis Presley' returned to Billboard's Top Country Album chart at No. 41.

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

September 25 - Elvis News Report

Emiel Maier posted his monthly retrospective of the important Elvis Presley news. In this edition he wrapped up the news from September 2025 which includes the ''EPiC' movie, warning and explaining of fake Elvis news and videos, the death of Edward Faulkner and much more.

September 25 - Rockin’ in Georgia

The SR import record label announced the late October 2025 release of the double LP set 'Rockin’ in Georgia'.

Publicity stated: An ambitious project aimed at highlighting Elvis's rock side in the 1970s. We decided to begin, in our humble opinion, with the best rocking single: 'Promised Land'.

This new SR release will feature a first LP dedicated to an analysis of the song, tracing its development from the studio to the stage. At the same time, the second disc presents the first show of the April 1975 tour - surely one of the best of the year - recorded in Macon, Georgia, on April 24, 1975.

The first vinyl is cut at 45 RPM, allowing listeners to enjoy an incredibly sharp sound while exploring the evolution of the song. The second vinyl presents a soundboard recording of the Macon show. It was previously released on CD, but this is the first time on vinyl, remastered from the Analog Mono source to deliver a vastly superior sound.

The glossy gatefold edition will be accompanied by a bonus 30x30 cm glossy photo. A must-have!

SR intends to present Elvis at the peak of his abilities. His December 1973 recording of 'Promised Land,' combined with the April 1975 Macon show, undoubtedly captures the best moments of both years, showing him at the top of his game with a great studio session and a great live performance. As the title suggests, 'Rockin’ in Georgia' showcases Elvis with a renewed rock attitude.

Quoting Cash Box: “Elvis really hits home.” Without doubt, his take on Chuck Berry confirms Elvis’ ever-present ability to transform a song into something unique. The Macon concert reveals a rediscovered Elvis who, though overweight, faces the stage with a revitalized rock spirit.

The show is strong, built around a solid set of recently recorded songs, well-performed. Elvis’s range remains impressive, but here his rocking side is finally dominant. The rocking trilogy - 1972’s 'Burning Love', 1974’s 'Promised Land', and his later single 'T-R-O-U-B-L-E - together with the autobiographical 'My Boy', are without doubt the highlights of the concert.

This SR Special Product comes in a Deluxe 300 Gr. sleeve containing the double 150 Gr. vinyl and a bonus card. To make it a true collector’s item, only 300 copies will be pressed, available in two different vinyl color variations: 150 copies on smoked yellow vinyl and 150 copies on smoked blue colored vinyl, both with their own 30 x 30 CM glossy art card.

LP 1 - Studio and Live Recordings (18 minutes):

Side A: Promised Land – First Take (2:16) / Promised Land – Undubbed Master (Take 6) / Promised Land – Best Take (Take 2) / Promised Land – From original single vinyl (January 1975).

Side B: Promised Land – First Live Performance, Las Vegas, August 19, 1974 (Opening Show) /  Promised Land – Second Live Performance, Las Vegas, August 20, 1974 (Dinner Show) / Promised Land – First 1975 Live Soundboard Performance, Las Vegas, March 22, 1975 (Midnight Show).

LP 2 - As Recorded Live at Macon Coliseum, Macon, GA, April 24, 1975 – 8:30 PM (46 minutes): 

Side C: Elvis Talks / Love Me / If You Love Me / You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me / Big Boss Man / 

It’s Midnight / Promised Land / Fairytale / Burning Love.

Side D: Band Introduction / School Days / My Boy / T-R-O-U-B-L-E /  I’ll Remember You / Let Me Be There (with Reprise) / An American Trilogy / Can’t Help Falling in Love / Closing Vamp.

Note: The Macon 1975 live set has been released on the FTD 'From Georgia To Florida'.

(Source: Elvis Rarities / Pascal Matteo)

Review The SUN Singles of Elvis

Elvis collector Warren Schubert turned the learnings of his years of collecting Elvis' SUN records into a book, presenting the first coherent overview for fellow collectors.

 
Design
 
The book was published by Memphis Mansion Publishing, so Søren Karstensen provided the design for the book. And he did a great job. With the first glance you know the book can only cover Elvis at SUN thanks to the yellow and brown color scheme of the cover with the first official promotional picture of our man. 

Now who came up with the idea to dress that Memphis rebel in a tuxedo? All of a sudden Elvis's performance of ‘Hound Dog’ on the Steve Allen Show a few years later doesn't look as odd …
 

The nice thing Karstensen did was update the SUN elements - the rooster in particular - to a 21st century design, matching the various chapters of the book. 

The combination of Schubert's first person storytelling, the singles, relevant memorabilia and paperwork look great and make easy reading. 

 
Content
 
The title of the book is 'The Sun Singles of Elvis - An Illustrated Guide' and that is exactly what it is. To give the illustrations, with the SUN single variations as the main topic, Schubert provides the historical context of the record label and its most famous artist and the world of producing records in the fifties before we get to Elvis' five SUN singles.
 

As there is very little paperwork left, Schubert had to create a timeline of events and products based on the snippets of information available. But this isn't a problem for the author, as he has owned well over 50 SUN singles over the years.
 
In an interview with Piers Beagley for the Elvis Information Network he said: "I spent nights and weekends comparing photos of labels to determine any differences, well over a thousand photos. Zooming in on details, or using a magnifying glass to examine closely any records on hand. I made visits to the Memphis library and other collectors homes.
 

I could possibly have one of the largest private collections of Elvis Sun singles, with many of the photos from the book either currently or having been part of my collection. I own some letters and invoices from the Sun files, the earliest from 1953. I have some checks signed by both Marion Keisker and Sam Phillips, as well as original labels from the east coast Paramount pressing plant. A few of them also came from Marion's personal collection. I also have a couple of early acetates in my collection, one a Sun and the other was made by RCA using the original Sun tapes." My conclusion: Warren Schubert knows his SUN records.
 
He takes his readers by the hand as he organizes his thoughts and builds a credible argument and timeline. It is up to the reader to come up with something better, but to me, his story feels well-thought-out and well-substantiated.

Example from the book on 'That's All Right': "This 78 rpm copy of 209 had labels that had the word ‘with’ above Scotty and Bill. The record number 209 was also placed at the bottom under the title, which seemed to have been the position Sam set on all of his previous releases. The upside down labeled 45 rpm did not have this word. Since there are releases of the 45 rpm that match this layout and it was the way Sam preferred it, then it would stand to reason the matching 45 rpm would have been released at the same time and in the same configuration as the 78 rpm. 

If this is the case then the copies containing the word ‘with’ would be the first pressings for both the 78 rpm and the 45 rpm records. ... Once again this is just a theory, since it can’t be verified by anyone who was actually there at the time. But given the evidence of the Elvis signed 78 rpm copy, there is a strong argument that the evidence greatly supports the theory."

Each single gets its own chapter that starts with the songs, the recording and the business-side behind each release. But to me, his story feels well-thought-out and well-substantiated. Most of it is known to collectors, but as this book is also sold at SUN records in Memphis, it is needed to present the complete story to the casual music fan, SUN or Elvis collector. There is some repetition in the facts, but this isn't a problem while reading the book.
 
Reading the book we learn that each single release was a project on its own for Phillips: it was either getting the song on tape in a version that would sell, getting the copyrights, putting up the finances, dealing with the pressing plants, dealers and so on. Added to this groundwork are the details on the different labels and pressings before we get all SUN singles in all their glory on 45 and 78 RPM.
 
The proof of the eating is of course in the pudding; the SUN singles, and the book worked for me. Comparing my singles with Schubert's overview I was able to identify my singles from the images shown. A second pressing is as close as I came to the birth of Rock and Roll.
 

The book does have two big omissions for me; a complete list identifying all variations presented in this book, so as a collector, you can easily identify the version you have. As far as I can remember Schubert's book is the first book covering these historical singles in this much detail, that gives him the right to create the list of all variations and their specific characteristics. That would have completed this book as the definitive reference on these landmark singles. 

The other big one is the absence of the two 78 rpm versions of SUN 223, 'Mystery Train,' but that was an error during the production I understood. 
 
Minor omissions are the research by John Heath on the SUN labels, he has also created a time-line, and of course Graceland's acetate debacle, buying as forgery instead of the original SUN promotional acetate that Phillips brought to his partner in crime and radio DJ Dewey Phillips on that legendary night when 'That's All Right' premiered. It would have fitted well into the personal acetates and forgeries chapters.
 
Conclusion
 
I have to compliment Warren Schubert on his research, and Søren Karstensen on the presentation of that research. Even with the omissions mentioned, this is an insightful and attractive book, that fills a gap in the Elvis discography book library.
 
The foreword of the book was written by Mack Stevens, who described himself as a "SUN records collector and obsessionist", and that is a good description of the people who will probably buy the book, but it deserves a far wider audience.

Additional information

The book will be published during the Elvis Presley Weekend at the Danish Memphis Mansion from October 3 to 5, 2025 during which Warren Schubert will do a session. 

If you want a signed copy from the author, you can contact him by >>> mail. 

You can read an interview with Warren Schubert on the >>> Elvis Information Network.

Here is the author explaining the story behind the book:

September 23 - Softly, As I Leave You

Priscilla Presley's second memoir, 'Softly, As I Leave You: Life After Elvis - A Memoir' has been released in various languages. This book is the follow-up to her 'Elvis and Me' memoir. 

Description: The long-awaited memoir by Priscilla Presley chronicling her difficult, inspiring journey beyond the walls of Graceland and behind the elegant image the world sees.

 

Priscilla Presley’s divorce from Elvis left his fans incredulous. How could she leave the man every woman wanted? From the outside, life in Elvis’s mansion looked glamorous and enviable, and in many respects, it was. But inside the mansion, her husband was constantly surrounded by a male entourage while at the gates, lines of beautiful women waited hopefully for an audience with the King. 

From the time she was seventeen years old, that life was all Priscilla had known. During her ten years with Elvis, it became painfully apparent that she had no idea who she was outside Elvis’s world. The only way to find herself was to leave that world and seek a new life of her own, because leaving was the only way to survive, for herself and for her daughter.

'Softly, As I Leave You', is the deeply personal story of what Priscilla lost and what she found when she walked away from the man she loved. Despite the legal separation, their love for one another transformed into a touching and tender dynamic that endured until Elvis’s untimely death four years later. 

Shattered by Elvis’s passing, she had to reinvent herself a second time as the single mother of a talented, often headstrong daughter who never really recovered from her father’s death. Priscilla’s dedication to motherhood was enriched by the birth of her second child, and she gradually found her footing as a businesswoman, actress, designer, and legislative advocate. She transformed Graceland into an international destination and helped guide the development of Elvis Presley Enterprises. 

But the unexpected, shattering loss of three immediate family members years later brought Priscilla to her knees. She shares her journey with a quiet dignity that will comfort and reassure anyone who has suffered – and survived – seemingly unbearable loss.

A passionate, compassionate, and inspiring story of finding your place in the world, 'Softly, As I Leave You', is a sweet Southern melody that will take the reader with Priscilla on her long road home.

The book is available for pre-order from >>> Amazon (associate link).

Chante Avec Elvis

Due for release from the French V.P.I. Record label on November 14, 2025 are re-issues of the French LP 'Chante Avec Elvis' and the Japanese Edition of 'Elvis' Christmas Album'. The French album will be released on half red and blue colored vinyl and the Japanese LP on red white and green colored vinyl.  

More information when available. 

Star Weekly

The September issue of Star Weekly tabloid features Priscilla and Elvis on the cover. 

Insides a not so positive article that claims that Elvis was her first victim. The cover also states that she is involved in a US$50 million dollar lawsuit, forced Elvis into a divorce deal and that she took Lisa Marie of life support following cardiac arrest. 

If You're Looking For Trouble

A federal judge sentenced Lisa Jeanine Findley, 54, of Kimberling City, Missouri, to 57 months in prison for orchestrating an elaborate fraud scheme targeting Elvis Presley's iconic Memphis estate. U.S. District Judge John T. Fowlkes, Jr., also imposed three years of supervised release following the prison term.

Findley's deception began approximately six months after Lisa Marie Presley's death in January 2023. She created a fictitious lending company called Naussany Investments & Private Lending LLC, which falsely claimed that Lisa Marie Presley had borrowed US$3.8 million using Graceland as collateral and defaulted before her death.

The fraud unraveled when the fake company scheduled an auction of the historic property. Riley Keough, Lisa Marie Presley's daughter, successfully challenged the sale in Tennessee court, arguing the company was fraudulent. When no one appeared to defend the claims, a judge blocked the sale and federal authorities launched an investigation.

Court documents revealed Findley's sophisticated tactics, which included creating multiple false identities and email accounts, forging loan documents and affidavits, publishing fraudulent foreclosure notices in Memphis newspapers, and filing false documentation with county offices. When investigators closed in, she attempted to blame fictional perpetrators, including communications claiming a "Nigerian identity thief" and later someone from Belize was responsible.

Federal prosecutors built their mail fraud case around evidence that Findley mailed fraudulent creditor claims from Missouri to Presley family business managers in California. Her arrest occurred on August 16, 2024, exactly 47 years after Elvis Presley's death.

Findley pleaded guilty to mail fraud in February as part of a plea agreement that dismissed the aggravated identity theft charge. The case highlights vulnerabilities facing high-profile estates and sends a message that federal authorities will aggressively prosecute sophisticated fraud schemes targeting prominent properties.

(Source: Grand Central Publishing / Plastic Head / Amazon / NY Post / Elvis Club Berlin / Star / Action News 5)

September 22 - This Is Elvis

Shinko Music announce the October 22, 2025 release of the  224-page 'Elvis Music Guide' titles 'This Is Elvis!' by Billy Morokawa.

Description: The ultimate volume has arrived to commemorate the 90th anniversary of the birth of the King of Rock 'n' Roll, Elvis Presley!

This music guide and reference book, centered around detailed explanations of the albums (vinyl and other) released during his active career from 1954 to 1977, will help you learn more about and enjoy Elvis and his music.

It also provides detailed descriptions of the country, blues, and gospel artists who influenced him, the story and historical background of his rise to the throne, a review of all of his films, complete concert recordings, an analysis of the evolution of his guitar, piano, and vocal styles, and more, thoroughly covering all of his work over the 23 years he led the development of popular music. A treasure trove of Elvis' long-awaited treasure trove for Elvis fans!

Contents:
・Albums from the 1950s-1970s
・Posthumous Albums
・EP Records
・Camden Records
・Box Sets
・Japan-Exclusive Editions
・Treasured Records from the 1950s
・Complete Filmography
・Elvis Quotes & Trivia
・Elvis Looks Good on the Guitar
・Elvis's Piano
・10 Artists Who Influenced Elvis
・10 Artists Influenced by Elvis
・Musicians Who Supported the Elvis Sound
・Uncovering the Evolution of Elvis' Voice Through Ballads
・13 CDs to Pass on to Future Generations
・Complete Concert Recordings and More

(Source: Elvis Club Berlin / Amazon Japan)

September 20 - From Elvis On Vinyl

Due for release from Sony on October 18, 2025, as part of the  National Album Day in the United Kingdom, is a vinyl re-issue of 'From Elvis In Memphis' on "Bloody Mary" colored vinyl. 

Side A: Wearin' That Loved On Look - Only The Strong Survive - I'll Hold You In My Heart (Till I Can Hold You In My Arms) - Long Black Limousine - It Keeps Right On A-Hurtin' - I'm Movin' On.

Side B: Power Of My Love . Gentle On My Mind - After Loving You - True Love Travels On A Gravel Road - Any Day Now - In The Ghetto.

National Album Day is an annual UK-based celebration of the album as an art form, taking place on October 18, 2025, with a focus on Rock music this year. The event highlights exclusive releases, classic reissues, and promotes the music and creativity behind significant albums through record store events, radio broadcasts, and social media.

National Album Day is run jointly by the BPI and ERA, the digital entertainment retail association, and is supported by record labels, record stores, digital platforms, and the wider music community, including AIM and PPL.

The LP is available from the >>> Bennies Fifties webshop.

 

Runner-Up

The winners of the Toronto International Film Festival's People's Choice Awards have been announced. 

In the "Documentary" category 'EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert' was the first runner-up, the winner was 'The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue'.  

Department of Comics 

The Department of Truth publisher celebrates its 5th Anniversary with an Extra-length #0 Issue! 

In total seven artist edition covers were created.

Description: A new day has dawned at the Department of Truth. Lee Harvey Oswald and his ruthless new recruits are ready to do whatever it takes to make the agency great again. Don’t miss this critical turning point in the Eisner-nominated series! 

And - for the first time ever - the Department of Truth welcomes celebrated guest writer Scott Snyder (Absolute Batman) and acclaimed artist Joshua Hi son (The Deviant) to tell the secret history of Elvis in the first of a three-part back-up story!

(Source: Pascal Matteo / Paul Sweeney / eBay)

September 20 - Charts September 2025 - Week 3

Elvis Presley is still listed on the charts in the United Kingdom alone this week. 

The 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' album won one place and climbed to No. 68 on the main U.K. Album chart, but lost one spot on the nation's Streaming chart, falling to No. 61. On the Chart Update chart the compilation dropped 14 places to No. 60. Actually not bad for an album that was released 23 years ago this week.

'The King of Rock and Roll' DVD compilation Fell off the Music Video chart Top 40 from last week's listing at No. 25.

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

September 19 - Golden Boy Magazine

The new Golden Boy Elvis magazine has been published. The German A4-sized glossy magazine features many interesting reads and reviews. Some of the new titles covered with in-depth reviews are 'Sunset Boulevard' 5-CD-set, the 'Elvis '57' book and the Harum Scarum Sessions'. These reviews make great weekend reading.

Added to that are articles by Elvis experts on authenticating Elvis (getting to know Liberace from a new side), then-and-now pictures of Elvis in New Orleans, walking in the King's footsteps, an interview with Dutch artist Sabine van Haren on the art of making Elvis, curious Korean vinyl pressings, news and much more. 

'Golden Boy Elvis' is available at many Elvis dealers, as well as directly from the publisher.

For more information on the magazine, visit the >>> Golden Boy Elvis website, or contact the publisher by >>> email.

Platinum Record Award

Elvis' single 'In The Ghetto' was certified Platinum in New Zealand for selling over 30,000 copies  chart-eligible retail sales (physical and digital) and paid stream equivalent data.

King Creole

The French RDM-Edition record label officially released their Stereo Version of Elvis' 'King Creole' soundtrack on CD and as a 10-inch vinyl LP. Copies had slipped out to the first fans the past two weeks.

Description: While the recent 4 CD box 'Presley - The Essential '50's Masters' has received positive reviews, it were the 'King Creole' recordings that received particular praise. The soundtrack from Elvis's fourth film has been one of the fans' favorites for many years. 

Consequently, requests for a vinyl version featuring the new stereo mixes from the 'Presley' box set began to circulate. We wanted to offer fans who had already purchased the 'Presley' box set a totally "new" listening experience, and that's why the songs are presented here exactly as they are heard in the film, with the Movie Versions of  'Turtles, Berries and Gumbo - King Creole Instrumental - Crawfish', 'Steadfast, Loyal and True', 'Lover Doll', 'New Orleans' and 'King Creole'. All other songs are newly created Stereo Record Masters.

This vinyl is available in a Limited Edition of 200 copies. A CD version is also available in digisleeve, with 5 additional tracks and a slightly different cover from the vinyl.

Go to the RDM-Edition webshop for the >>> vinyl edition or for the >>> CD edition. On the record label's website you can also listen to previews of all the songs. 

Tracks vinyl: 1. Turtles, Berries and Gumbo - King Creole instrumental - Crawfish (movie version) / 2. Steadfast, Loyal and True (movie version) / 3. Lover Doll (movie version) / 4. Trouble / 5. Dixieland Rock / 6. Young Dreams / 7. New Orleans (movie version) / 8. Hard Headed Woman / 9. King Creole (movie version) / 10. Don't Ask Me Why / 11. As Long as I Have You

Additional tracks on the CD: 12. Crawfish /13. Steadfast, Loyal and True / 14. Lover Doll / 15. New Orleans /16. King Creole.

You can read the >>> Elvis Day by Day review here. 

(Source: Golden Boy Elvis / RDM Edition)

Review 'Elvis 1956: October 10 - 31

Following no fewer than five books on Elvis in 1958, visual biographer Paul Belard jumped back on the Elvis Presley timeline with a new book, covering the three weeks between October 10th and October 31st 1956.

Design

The author selected a great picture for the cover, perfectly grasping the time-frame of the book, Elvis touring Texas, the state that "put him over the top" according to Elvis himself. Consistent with his established format, he added all available pictures, in good, and not so good quality, to present the visual timeline as complete as possible.

These photographs are accompanied by short descriptions with the date, location and what happened in a day-by-day format, something I can appreciate. Added to that are several relevant documents and original articles. 

Belard has a pleasant writing style, but limits his text to providing the factual context in which the - some color(ized) - images and original documents can tell the story themselves. I like the format, as it offers us the original perspectives on Elvis, and what happened at a certain moment.

Content

A big part of this book was already covered in the Follow That Dream release 'Rebel with a Cause' by David English and Pal Granlund. That book featured many of the same pictures in better quality, but Belard managed to find new and alternative ones, further completing the documentation of this period.

I enjoyed reading the story of Kay Wheeler, going from the first (female) fanclub president to a Rock and Roll star herself. And what about those newspaper headlines and articles, "Screamers Are 26,500 Strong As Elvis Rocks The Cotton Bowl", stating "Elvis rolled into the Cotton Bowl last night and 26,500 teenagers and a few moms and pops went wild…" Original articles like this make the pictures come alive, and make fascinating reading seventy years later.

A few days later, the headline for an article reads "Elvis Crowd Is Expected To be Orderly" and although 14 off-duty policemen and two deputy sheriffs were at hand the article also mentioned "the crowd went hysterical when he came into view". And finally, to emphasize Elvis' impact, an article stated: "Elvis Presley created more mass hysteria here Friday night than the 1953 Tornado".

Many of the images shown are from local newspapers, and show professional journalists, but also high-school kids interviewing Presley with a recorder. I do wonder if some of these tapes are still to be (re)discovered …

Besides creating "mass hysteria" with his appearances on stage, he also appeared in court. It was interesting to see that the judge took his side, and didn't judge him just on the "impact" he made on young people or the image he had as a "menace to society". When he was charged with assault, battery, and disorderly conduct after he got into a fight with a filling station assistant, he was acquitted of all charges.

At the end of the month, he was back in New York, recording his introductions for the 'Perfect For Parties' EP and plugging RCA phonographs – highly collectable items these days. Also connected to "these days" is one of the last items in the book, Elvis rerecording an alternative ending for his 'Love me Tender' movie at Junco Studios. Earlier this year, new footage of Elvis in Junco Studios and interacting with fans afterwards was discovered. 

This illustrates the beauty of documenting Elvis history, it isn't only looking backwards, some of it still happens today.

Conclusion

With this book Belard added another few interesting notches to the Elvis Presley timeline, offering an insightful read at the same time.

Buy the book

The 'Elvis 1956: October 10 - 31' book is available from >>> Amazon (associate links). For a signed edition you can contact Paul Belard by email at >>> pbelard@hotmail.com

September 17 - Harum Holiday Stories of Elvis Presley

Here are the details of Stig Ulrichsen's upcoming book 'Fortællinger om Elvis Presley' ('Stories About Elvis Presley'), which should be out any day now. The cover photo, provided by Pål Granlund has never been published before.

Publicity stated: He was more than a superstar. Behind the brilliant costumes, the wild tours and the endless fan enthusiasm was a man who loved philosophy, sought deeper meaning and longed for peace.

What did it feel like that night in Tupelo when a little boy named Elvis Aaron Presley was born? What happened backstage when he shared spiritual reflections with his loved ones? And how did friends, lovers and employees experience him when the spotlight was off?

Stories about Elvis Presley take you very close to the man behind the icon. Here you meet Elvis through the eyes of those who knew him best.

Stig Ulrichsen cultivates his storytelling in a new way. Here you get vivid stories, written in short story form, where facts are transformed into scenes filled with atmosphere, drama and presence. The result is a book that contains intimate conversations, journalistic interviews and vivid storytelling.

You will be taken to Graceland, on tour, to Las Vegas, and all the way back to Elvis’ childhood in Tupelo. Along the way, you gain insight into his spirituality, his humor, his love and his struggle against loneliness and pressure.

Author and journalist Stig Ulrichsen builds on the success of 'Stories About Elvis Presley' and provides an even richer mosaic of memories, facts and vivid scenes, which together draw a deeply human portrait of The King.

A book for anyone who wants to get closer to Elvis Presley, not only as a superstar, but as a person.

A fragment from the book as posted online by the autor: The tour bus smelled of coffee and tobacco smoke, while the engine hummed through the dark country road. The winter cold pressed against the windows, but inside the air was dense, warm and filled with voices. Elvis sat with the guitar on his lap and let his fingers glide loosely over the strings, while Jimmie Rodgers Snow swayed his head in time to the rhythm.

"I've never met anyone who sings like you," said Hank Snow from the seat in front. He turned halfway around, his face bathed in cigarette smoke. Elvis looked down at the guitar and shrugged. "I just try to sing so people can feel it. Like in church back home. When gospel hits... then it lifts you." Jimmie grinned and lightly patted the backrest. "You lift people, Elvis. You should have seen their eyes tonight. They completely forget where they are."

Elvis smiled shyly, struck a few chords to 'That's All Right;, and Jimmie joined in. Soon their voices filled the bus – raw and alive – while the darkness outside glided by like an endless canvas.

Presley Family Expansion

Riley Keough and her husband, Ben Smith-Petersen, are a family of four.

The “Daisy Jones & The Six” star and her beau quietly welcomed a second baby earlier this year, a rep for Keough confirmed to Page Six Wednesday. Priscilla Presley confirmed the news to People magazine. The baby’s name and sex were not disclosed

Released

The Follow That Dream collectors label released the 'Harum Holiday' LP and 'The Last Tours Vol. 3' triple CD-set have been released. 

Publicity for the 'Harum Holiday' LP stated: FTD Vinyl is pleased to announce the release of “Harem Holiday" Limited 2-LP Edition. It features far superior newly mixed masters and outtakes, the cover also features Elvis  in correct profile at last!   

This unique companion edition is based on the original UK release with the red dot RCA Victor label. Simply, the best sounding and looking version of Harem (Scarum) Holiday ever!

LP 1 - Side A: Harem Holiday - Mirage - Shake That Tambourine - Go East, Young Man - My Desert Serenade - Kismet - Animal Instinct (Take 2089 - 2092)*

Side B: So Close, Yet So Far (From Paradise) - Hey Little Girl - Golden Coins - Wisdom Of The Ages* - Shake That Tambourine (Take 2012 - 2019) - Animal Instinct*

LP 2 - Side C: Harem Holiday (Take 2095 - 2096) - Kismet (Take 2063 - 2064) - My Desert Serenade (Take 2049 - 2052) - Golden Coins (Take 2073 - 2076) - Hey Little Girl (Take 2068 - 2069) - Wisdom Of The Ages* (Take 2058 - 2059).

Site D: Shake That Tambourine (Take 2028 - 2033) - So Close, Yet So Far (From Paradise) - Animal Instinct (Take 2093)* - Harem Holiday (Vocal Replacement 2096 / Unedited Master) - My Desert Serenade (Take 2053) - Hey Little Girl (Take 2070)

* Bonus Song Not Featured In The MGM Motion Picture.

The 'Harem Holiday' 2-LP-set is available for pre-order from the >>> ElvisMatters webshop.

Publicity for volume 3 stated: Released as a 3-CD 5-inch digipack, 'The Last Tours vol. 3' features the recorded segments of shows from 1977 – April 23: University of Toledo, April 24: Crisler Hall, Ann Arbor. April 26: Wings Stadium, Kalamazoo. April 27: Milwaukee Auditorium Arena, April 29: Arena, Duluth. April 30: Civic Center, St. Paul.

The concerts feature all of the songs that were recorded by the engineer during the April 1977 tour. Recorded in mono.

The Last Tours Vol. 3 - CD 1 - April 23, 1977 Toledo, Ohio

O Sole Mio / It’s Now Or Never - Little Sister - Teddy Bear / Don’t Be Cruel - And I Love You So - Fever - Polk Salad Annie - My Way - Introductions /School Day - Hurt - Hound Dog - Can’t Help Falling In Love - Closing Vamp

April 24, 1977. Ann Arbor, Michigan
Love Me - If You Love Me - You Gave Me A Mountain - Trying To Get To You - O Sole Mio / It’s Now Or Never - Little Sister - Teddy Bear / Don’t Be Cruel - Help Me - My Way - Polk Salad Annie - Hurt - Hound Dog - Unchained Melody - Little Darlin’ - Can’t Help Falling In Love - Closing Vamp

CD 2 - April 26, 1977. Kalamazoo, Wisconsin
Love Me - Fairytale (False Start) - If You Love Me - You Gave Me A Mountain - Jailhouse Rock - O Sole Mio / It’s Now Or Never - Big Boss Man - Heartbreak Hotel - Blue Suede Shoes - And I Love You So - My Way - Hound Dog - Can’t Help Falling In Love - Closing Vamp

April 27, 1977. Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Love Me - If You Love Me - You Gave Me A Mountain - Jailhouse Rock - O Sole Mio / It’s Now Or Never - Little Sister - Teddy Bear / Don’t Be Cruel - And I Love You - My Way - Polk Salad Annie - Hurt  - Hound Dog - Can’t Help Falling In Love - Closing Vamp

CD 3 - April 29, 1977. Duluth, Minnesota
Love Me - If You Love Me - You Gave Me A Mountain - Jailhouse Rock - O Sole Mio / It’s Now Or Never - Little Sister - Teddy Bear / Don’t Be Cruel - Bridge Over Troubled Water - Big Boss Man - My Way - Hurt - Hound Dog - Can’t Help Falling In Love - Closing Vamp

April 30, 1977 St. Paul, Minneapolis
Rip It Up - Love Me - If You Love Me - You Gave Me A Mountain - Jailhouse Rock - O Sole Mio / It’s Now Or Never - My Way - Hound Dog - Polk Salad Annie - The Wonder Of You - Blue Suede Shoes - Hawaiian Wedding Song - Can’t Help Falling In Love - Closing Vamp

The 'Last Tours' 3-CD-set is available for pre-order from the >>> ElvisMatters webshop.

(Source: Stig Ulrichsen / Eddy  Vodden on Facebook / Page 6)