April 27 - Charts April 2025 - Week 4

At the end of the month Elvis managed to turn the tide, finding his way up the Official U.K. charts.

The 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' compilation bounced back from No. 70 to No. 57 on the Official Album chart, and from No. 59 to No. 50 on the Streaming Album chart.

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

April 25 - May Video and CD News Report

The Dutch ElvisOne import record label released four new CDs in their ongoing ‘Bootleg’ series; ‘Summer Festival 1969 – 1973’, ‘Summer Festival 1974’ and ‘Rarities’ volume 1 and 2. 

Publicity for ‘Summer Festival 1969 - 1973 / 1974’ stated: 1974, two new albums! A sequel to our "Winter In Vegas" releases from last year. This is a great collection of in total 92 tracks with many highlights. Only 10 tracks were released by Elvis' record company. 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! 

Besides many fantastic live versions like the very first live version of 'My Way' and 'What Now My Love', or the spontaneous version of 'Sweet Inspiration'. ‘Summer In Vegas 1969 - 1973 also includes 3 radio spots, an interview, announcements after the shows, and rehearsal excerpts. 

‘Summer In Vegas 1974’ is a compilation of two soundboard recordings in the style of (for example) the ‘Elvis In Concert’ album from 1977. The best of two shows without all the endless monologues between the songs. The complete shows with these recordings have been released. While the songs were often surprisingly different than usual (and good), the endless monologues detracted from this. That's why we released it this way. 

It has become a surprising album that is wonderful to listen to and lets Elvis live in August 1974 shine! We’ve only used recordings that are not available through the wonderful FTD Collectors label. 

On the second CD we have made room for the monologues, band introductions and a very special Happy Birthday to Kathy Westmoreland. This is a perfect addition to the official releases! 

‘Summer In Vegas 1969 - 1973’ CD 1: 01. I Just Can’t Help Believin’ 08/10/70, backstage 02. All Shook Up 08/03/69, ds 03. Memories 08/03/69, DS 04. Baby What You Want Me To Do 08/03/69, DS 05. Are You Lonesome Tonight? 08/03/69, DS 06. Blue Suede Shoes 08/14/70, MS 07. Heartbreak Hotel 08/19/70, DS 08. Polk Salad Annie 08/19/70, DS 09. Elvis Talks 08/19/70, DS 10. What Now My Love (1st live version) 08/04/72, OS 11. My Way (1st live version) 08/04/72, OS 12. My Babe 08/04/72, OS 13. Also Sprach Zarathustra 08/12/72, ds 14. See See Rider 08/12/72, ds 15. Proud Mary 08/12/72, DS 16. Until It’s Time For You To Go 08/12/72, DS 17. You Don’t Have To Say You Love Me 08/12/72, DS 18. You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’ 08/12/72, ds 19. Polk Salad Annie 08/12/72, DS 20. Trouble 08/31/73, DS 21. Medley: Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On / Mama Don’t Dance / Flip, Flop and Fly / Hound Dog 08/31/73, ds 22. Love Me Tender 08/31/73, ds 23. Fever (with long intro) 08/31/73, ds 24. Elvis Talks 08/31/73, ds 25. Bridge Over Troubled Water 08/31/73, DS 26. A Big Hunk O’ Love 08/04/72, OS 27. Mystery Train 08/04/72, OS 

‘Summer In Vegas 1969 - 1973’ CD 2: 01. Never Been To Spain 08/04/72, OS 02. Little Sister / Get Back 08/04/72, OS 03. One Night 08/04/72, OS 04. Elvis receiving gold records 08/04/72 05. My Boy 09/02/73, MS 06. I Can’t Stop Loving You 09/02/73, MS 07. The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face 09/02/73, MS 08. Mystery Train / Tiger Man 09/02/73, MS 09. Elvis Talks 09/02/73, MS 10. A Big Hunk O’ Love 09/02/73, MS 11. Release Me 09/02/73, MS 12. What Now My Love 09/02/73, MS 13. Can’t Help Falling In Love 09/02/73, MS 14. Closing Vamp 09/02/73, MS 15. Announcements 09/03/72, 3am 16. Help Me Make It Through The Night 08/10/73, MS 17. Something 08/23/73, ds 18. Radio Promo #1 19. Sweet Inspiration 08/20/70, MS 20. Memphis Tennessee 08/11/71, ds 21. Trying To Get To You 08/11/71, ds 22. Tony Prince interview 09/04/72 23. Radio Promo #2 24. Radio Promo #3 BONUS TRACKS 25. Rehearsal excerpt 08/04/70 26. Announcement 09/01/73, MS.

Summer In Vegas 1974 CD 1: 01. It’s Midnight 09/02, CS 02. Big Boss Man 08/30, MS 03. Fever (with long intro) 08/30, MS 04. Elvis talks 08/30, MS 05. Softly As I Leave You 08/30, MS 06. It’s Now Or Never 09/02, CS 07. Suspicious Minds 08/30, MS 08. Love Me 08/30, MS 09. If You Love Me (Let Me Know) 09/02, CS 10. You Gave Me A Mountain 09/02, CS 11. Hound Dog 09/02, CS 12. I Got A Woman / Amen 09/02, CS 13. Until It’s Time For You To Go 09/02, CS 14. Elvis talks 08/30, MS 15. If You Talk In Your Sleep 08/30, MS 16. Help Me 08/30, MS 17. Let Me Be There 08/30, MS 18. Elvis talks 08/30, MS 19. How Great Thou Art 08/30, MS 20. Hawaiian Wedding Song 08/30, MS 21. An American Trilogy 08/30, MS BONUS TRACKS 22. Hawaiian Wedding Song 09/02, CS 23. Can’t Help Falling In Love 09/02, CS 24. Elvis Talks 09/02, CS 25. I Couldn’t Live Without You (sung by Voice) 09/02, CS 

Summer In Vegas 1974 CD 2: 01. Intro / See See Rider 08/30, MS 02. Band Introductions 09/02, CS 03. James Burton solo 09/02, CS 04. Ronnie Tutt solo 09/02, CS 05. Duke Bardwell solo 09/02, CS 06. Glenn D Hardin solo 09/02, CS 07. Elvis introduces Ed Parker 09/02, CS 08. Elvis introduces John O’ Grady and talks about Paternity Suit 09/02, CS 09. Drugs dialogue 09/02, CS 10. Elvis introduces his sound engineer Bill Porter, his father and Colonel Parker 09/02, CS 11. Jewelry dialogue 09/02, CS 12. About ‘You Gave Me A Mountain’ / Elvis introduces Priscilla, Lisa Marie and his girlfriend Sheila Ryan / Elvis talking about his divorce 09/02, CS 13. Elvis talks about Judy Spreckels 09/02, CS 14. Happy Birthday to Kathy Westmoreland 08/23, MS.

Rarities Volume 1: 01. That’s All Right (Live, 10/06/74, Evening Show) 1:36 02. Banana (Sung By Liliane Montevecchi) 2:35 03. Banana (Bow Music For Ending) 0:11 04. Muskrat Ramble (Movie Version Transfer) 1:07 05. It’s Midnight (Rehearsal) 4:02 06. Ghost Riders In The Sky (Rehearsal, 2 Lines) 0:21 07. Trying To Get To You (Live, 03/16/74, Afternoon Show) 2:28 08. All Shook Up (Live, 03/16/74, Afternoon Show) 1:00 09. Steamroller Blues (Live, 03/16/74, Afternoon Show) 2:59 10. Killing Me Softly (Live, Sung By Sherrill Nielsen, 01/26/74, Opening Show) 3:30 11. Spanish Eyes (Live, Sung By Elvis And Sherrill Nielsen, 01/26/74, Opening Show) 3:53 12. Hank Snow All Star Jamboree Commercial (1955) 1:07 13. Heartbreak Hotel (Live, 08/06/56) 1:55 14. Interview By Ron Ross (11/22/56) 2:46 15. Introducing Elvis (Live, 11/22/56) 2:31 16. Heartbreak Hotel (Live, 11/22/56) 3:27 17. Long Tall Sally (Live, 11/22/56) 2:04 18. Don’t Be Cruel (Live, 11/22/56 - Part Only) 1:44 19. Interview By Nashville Tennessean Reporter (04/19/60) 0:39 20. Follow That Dream Radio Spot (#1) 0:49 21. Follow That Dream Radio Spot (#2) 0:18 22. Follow That Dream Radio Spot (#3) 0:19 23. Rock-A-Hula Baby (Demo For ‘Blue Hawaii’) 1:51 24. Moon Burn (Demo For ‘Blue Hawaii’) 1:59 BONUS TRACKS 25. Don’t Close Your Door (By Vernon Presley / Overdubbed) 2:34 26. A Message To Elvis’ Fans And My Friends (By Vester Presley) 2:58 27. Red Robinson Presents ‘12 Years Of Elvis’ 5:39 28. Don’t Close Your Door (By Vernon Presley / Complete) 4:46 29. Hank Snow All Star Jamboree Commercial (Complete) 2:16.

Rarities Volume 2: 01. Radio Spot For Elvis At Madison Square Garden, New York 0:34 02. Sweet Caroline (Live, 01/26/74, Opening Show) 2:34 03. Heartbreak Hotel (Live, 10/06/74, Afternoon Show) 1:35 04. Ghost Riders In The Sky (Rehearsal, 07/15/70) 2:33 05. Sylvia (Rehearsal, 07/15/70) 0:43 06. Lawdy Miss Clawdy (Live, 10/06/74, Evening Show) 2:36 07. Fever (Live, 01/26/74, Opening Show) 2:25 08. Big Boss Man (Live, 10/06/74, Afternoon Show) 2:35 09. Elvis Arrives In St. Louis (06/28/73) 0:16 10. Five Hundred Miles (Home Recording / Overdubbed) 2:58 11. Blowin’ In The Wind (Home Recording / Overdubbed) 2:55 12. Fools Rush In (Home Recording / Overdubbed) 1:54 13. Tiger Man (Live, 8/11/73, Midnight Show) 1:08 14. Elvis At Kennedy Veterans Hospital (01/04/57) 0:38 15. It’s Very Nice To Go Traveling (Live, 03/26/60) 3:59 16. Fame And Fortune (Live, 03/26/60) 2:23 17. Stuck On You (Live, 03/26/60) 2:29 18. Introduction (Live, 03/26/60) 1:02 19. Witchcraft / Love Me Tender (Live, 03/26/60) 2:17 20. Farewell To Elvis (Live, 03/26/60) 0:19 21. Follow That Dream Radio Spot (#1) 0:50 22. Follow That Dream Radio Spot (#2) 0:25 23. Follow That Dream Radio Spot (#3) 0:14 24. Follow That Dream Radio Spot (#4) 0:07 25. Interview (01/11/58) 1:05 26. Slicin’ Sand (Demo For ‘Blue Hawaii’) 2:00 27. Playing With Fire (Demo For ‘Blue Hawaii’) 1:57 BONUS TRACKS 28. Girls! Girls! Girls! / Fun In Acapulco Radio Spot 0:57 29. Girls! Girls! Girls! / Fun In Acapulco Radio Spot 0:27 30. Elvis’ Grandfather Jesse D Presley Interview (07/09/58) 3:01 31. The Billy Goat Song (By Jesse D Presley) 2:31 32. Who’s That Kickin’ My Dog Around (By Jesse D Presley) 1:57 33. Lew Irwin Interview (06/08/56) 6:56.

News Report

Emiel Maier posted the May 2025 Elvis Video News Report on YouTube. This edition looks back on the main news from April 2025 and covers reports on the postponed premiere of the Elvis hologram show in London, Wink Martindale's death, but also the loss of songwriters and performers Troy Seals and Johnny Tillotson. 

Besides that it touches upon  the missed opportunities for singles success in the 1960s, book, vinyl and all the other relevant news. highlights. 

(Source: Emiel Maier / Elvis shop London)

April 23 - Elvis Un Fenomeno Mondiale

NovAntico has published the fourth volume in its series on Elvis in Italy, titled 'Elvis Presley - Un Fenomeno Mondiale Nelle Cronache Italiane 1970 - 1974' ('Elvis Presley - A Worldwide Phenomenon in Italian Chronicles 1970 - 1974').

This illustrated 184-page paperback, written by Luca Castellino and Ernesto Zucconi, explores Elvis's presence and impact in the Italian media through quotes from original articles in Italian newspapers and magazines from 1970 to 1974.

(Source: Nigel Patterson)

April 22 - Debut, Second Print and Farewell

The French RDM-Edition record label announced that due to popular demand, and exceptional sales, the label will do a second print-run of their latest Elvis release titled ‘From Florida To Hawaii’. The CD sold out in the first week of release.

Listen to previews or buy the CD at the >>> RDM Edition webshop and the >>> Bennies Fifties webshop.

David Briggs Died 

Elvis' former piano and keyboard player David Briggs died. He had been fighting cancer for a while.

In May 1966, he was given the opportunity of recording on sessions for Elvis' 'How Great Thou Art' album when Floyd Kramer was running late. Briggs continued to record and tour with Presley until February 1977.

David Briggs standing on the far left.

Briggs would leave the TCB Band after the February 1977 tour when Elvis discovered that he was having a relationship with Linda Thompson. The relationship between David Briggs and Linda Thompson would last three years, although they still remained close friends. Linda credits him with starting her career as a composer.

David Briggs' work with Elvis sessions would continue after 1977 when in 1982 he produced the remix Sessions for 'The Elvis Medley'. The single would chart at #51 UK and #71 in Billboard Top 100.

There are only a few distinct session players in Nashville who can legitimately claim to be part of the cast of “Nashville Cats” who were in high demand for decades to perform on country albums, along with albums from across the American music spectrum. There are even fewer session players who can claim they were also part of the original Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section. Piano and keyboard player, songwriter, producer, studio owner, and performer David Briggs was one of those rare unicorns.

He was inducted into the Alabama Music Hall of Fame in 1999, and the Musicians Hall of Fame as part of the original Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section in 2019.

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum posted: David Briggs could play keyboards in any style. For more than four decades, his deft touch graced countless country, R&B, rock, and pop recordings. He was eighteen years old when he played piano on Arthur Alexander’s epochal Muscle Shoals hit ‘You Better Move On.’ 

Recruited to Nashville by producer Owen Bradley, Briggs immediately became a studio fixture, enhancing records by Elvis Presley, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, Reba McEntire, and many more. 

He further shaped Music City in co-founding Quadrafonic Studio and opening his own House of David studio. He was a man of music through and through. Kyle Young, CEO

Linda Thompson posted on Instagram: We lost a great talent and a wonderful friend this morning. David Briggs was responsible for my becoming a songwriter. Many years ago he read some of my poetry and insisted that I was a lyricist. He composed music around some of my lyrics and the first cut I ever had was this beautiful song recorded by Kenny Rogers - written by David and me. I owe so much of my success to him. I was able to speak those reaffirming words to him last night in our conversation while he was in hospice. 

For those of you who may not know, David was Elvis‘s keyboard player for many years and that’s how I met him. What a blessing it was to be able to reminisce about our good times together and our lasting friendship before he passed away only a few hours after we spoke. Our last words to each other were “I love you.” If you have someone you’ve been meaning to reach out to, do it now, please. You never know how much it might mean to them… And to yourself. 

God bless your soul, and rest in peace, David…

Return To Paradise

ViaVision announced the July 16, 2025 debut release of 'Paradise Hawaiian Style', housed in a slipcase.

Publicity stated: Elvis Presley returns to Hawaii for the last time in the musical extravaganza 'Paradise, Hawaiian Style', also starring iconic Hammer horror favorite Suzanna Leigh and Die Hard’s James Shigeta. 

Elvis takes to the skies over the island paradise of Kauai. He’s a partner in a helicopter charter service. Romance, naturally, is in the air for the King… but his business may be grounded. A threatened suspension of his pilot’s license means he may have to kiss his assets goodbye.

Directed by Michael D. Moore – the prolific second unit director behind many blockbuster hits including 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid', 'Raiders of the Lost Ark' and 'Cool Runnings'.

Special Feature: Theatrical Trailer.

Note: Special features and artwork are subject to change. 

(Source: Anthony Stuchbury / RDM Edition / Steve Hoffman Forum / Elvis Information Network / Saving Country Music)

April 21 - Will Hutchins Died

Actor Will Hutchins died. He was 94.

Hutchins appeared in two Elvis films, as Tracy Richards in 'Spinout' (1966) and as Tom Wilson in 'Clambake' (1967) in which he lip-synced the “Who Needs Money?” duet with Elvis.

(Source: Elvis Information Network)

April 19 - Charts April 2025 - Week 3

Elvis Presley's presence on the charts is still limited to the United Kingdom alone, and unfortunately sales are dropping. 

On the Official Album chart, the 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' selection lost another nine places and dropped from No. 61 to No. 70. On the nation's Streaming Album chart the compilation lost six places and fell from No. 53 to No. 59.

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

April 19 - Las Vegas on a Budget

The Memphis Recording Service re-issued their 2021 set 'Las Vegas International Presents Elvis - The First Engagements 1969-70', spread over the two CDs 'Las Vegas - August 1969' and 'Las Vegas - January Thru February 1970’ on their MRS Camden budget label. 

The 1969 CD features the August 3, 1969 performance, the 1970 double CD contains the January 26, 1970 Opening Show, the February 23, 1970 Closing Show, and as a bonus 4 performances from the February 19, 1970 Dinner Show. 

All shows have come as newly created stereo mixes, housed in digi-sleeves with a bonus booklet. 

Released

The Infinity import record label released two new double CD sets: 'The Pope is Coming' and 'Burning In San Bernardino', both with live performances from 1972.

'The Pope Is Coming' features the brand-new and previously unreleased evening show Elvis performed in Chicago on June 17, 1972. 

 

The second 2-CD set features two of Elvis's finest shows from November 1972 at the Swing Auditorium. This was Elvis preparing for his worldwide satellite show with the shows a couple days later in Hawaii to serve as Elvis' debut to the world according to the press release.

(Source: Facebook)

April 18 - Platinum French Cartoon Rocker

The French Diggers Factory record label re-issued the 44-page hardcover Elvis comic 'Jean-William Thoury Presente Elvis Presley - BD Rock Par Fred Beltran'. This re-issue comes with a 24-track single CD edition featuring classic hits.

This set was previously released in 2016 as a comic book biography with 2 CDs and on vinyl in 2022.

Description: He has been given countless nicknames, the most eloquent of which is the King. Elvis Presley, the greatest phenomenon in the history of recorded music, is the King of Kings!

 
In the mid-1950s, catalyzing various trends, he imposed Rick and Roll on the planet, overturning everything in his path with irresistible originality, charm and freshness. His talent allowed him to tackle all styles, he does not hold back. His influence remains profound and his character is the object of a cult that never runs out of steam.

Tracks: That’s All Right Mama / Heartbreak Hotel / Blue Suede Shoes / Tutti Frutti / My Baby Left Me  / Hound Dog  / Don’t Be Cruel / Love Me Tender / So Glad You Are Mine / All Shook Up / Jailhouse Rock / Baby I Don’t Care / Doncha’ Think it’s Time / King Creole / Trouble / Fever / Stuck on You / Such A Night / It’s Now or Never / Are you Lonesome  / Tonight Is So Right For Love / Little Sister / Night Rider / Return To Sender.

More Platinum

The British Phonographic industries certified the single 'If I Can Dream' Platinum for selling over 600,000 copies ((streams plus digital downloads plus physical sales) since its re-release on November 15, 2004.

(Source: Diggers Factory / Cultura / BPI / Phoenix Elvis Forum)

April 17 - The Lisa Marie - The King's Flying Graceland

Exactly Fifty years to the date that Elvis bought his Convair 880 jet airliner, Elvis author and aeronautical engineer Carlos Varrenti published his 4th book on Elvis and his airplanes, titled 'The Lisa Marie - The King's Flying Graceland'.

Publicity stated: In the world of music, few names resonate as profoundly as Elvis Presley's. While the King of Rock 'n' Roll is celebrated for his legendary music and iconic performances, there exists another dimension to his life that has long captivated me: his enduring romance with the skies.

In my previous books on 'The Airplanes and The King', I embarked on a journey to explore Elvis' remarkable aviation adventures. I delved into the aircraft he chartered, purchased, and occasionally flew, providing a glimpse into his fearless exploration of the world of flight. Yet, with each passing edition, I couldn't help but feel that there was a significant piece of the puzzle left unexamined as deserved, the centerpiece of Elvis's aeronautical legacy: The Lisa Marie. 

This book is the biography of 'The King's Flying Graceland' and contains "everything there is to know about this aircraft and how the King used this plane from 1975 to 1977" according to Carlos Varrenti. Also included in the richly illustrated book, is the history of the 1960 Convair 880 before Elvis bought it, its time at Delta Airlines, when the plane crisscrossed the U.S. countless times, and everything else that happened to the plane after Elvis died and before it found its definitive landing-place at Graceland in 1984.

Within these pages, I invite you to embark on an immersive journey through the life of Elvis Presley, as seen through the prism of aviation and the extraordinary tale of his Convair 880.

The book is available from >>> Amazon (associate link). 

You can read an interview with Carlos Varrenti by Nigel Patterson on the >>> Elvis Information Network website. 

(Source: Carlos Varrenti / Amazon)

April 15 - Wink Martindale Died

Wink Martindale, a radio personality who became a television star Wink Martindale passes away. He was 91. R.I.P.

Wink Martindale spent 74 years in the radio and television business, starting his career at 17 as a DJ before making a name for himself at Memphis-based station WHBQ. Martindale was in the studio, although not working on-air that night, when the first Presley record 'That’s All Right' was played on WHBQ on July 8, 1954. Upon hearing the track, Martindale called Presley’s mother to see if he could come to his station for a chat. The conversation is thought to be instrumental in launching the career of a young Presley.

At his tenure with WHBQ, Martindale became the host of the TV show 'Top Ten Dance Party' where Elvis made an appearance on 16 June 1956. In 1959 he did a trans-Atlantic telephone interview with Presley, who was in the Army in Germany. Martindale’s second wife, Sandy, briefly dated Presley after meeting him on the set of 'G.I. Blues' in 1960.

The two stayed friends until Presley's death in 1977. Following Elvis' death Martindale aired a nationwide tribute radio special in his honor. 

Most recently, Wink appeared at Elvis' 2024 Elvis Birthday Celebration where he was honored with a Beale Street Note on the Beale Street Walk of Fame.

He also narrated the 12-chapter 'Elvis Story' which was released on vinyl - a collectable according some fans - and (bootleg) CD.

Priscilla posted: "We lost a dear friend ... Wink Martindale. I'm still in disbelief. I spoke to Sandy, his loving wife and longtime friend two days ago and she thought he was making progress, All of us who knew Wink have lost a great friend, My heart goes out to you Sandy"

Martindale remembered Elvis on Fox News: I met Elvis Presley on a hot July night in 1954. I was morning man at WHBQ Radio in the Chisca Hotel in Memphis, Tennessee. I did the morning show called 'Clockwatchers'. At night from 9:00 to midnight, we had a wild DJ on the air who played black music for white kids in those days. They called it race music, rhythm and blues music. He had 65 to 70 percent of the audience.

Now, even though I worked mornings, I happened to be there this particular night showing some of my hometown buddies around the radio station. I heard this commotion coming out of the studio where Dewey Phillips was doing his show called 'Red, Hot and Blue'. I excused myself from my friends, and I walked into the studio. I discovered that Sam Phillips, founder of Sun Records, had walked in with an acetate - not a finished record - but an acetate of a recording he had made just two hours earlier by a truck driver for Crown Electric Company whose name was Elvis Presley.

He wanted DJ Dewey Phillips to test it on the air to see if he had anything. Dewey Phillips played it. The switchboard lit up. It was called 'That's All Right Mama'. It turned out to be his first hit. He played it seven times in a row. I was the one delegated by Sam Phillips to call Elvis' parents, who lived in low rent housing out in east Memphis called Lauderdale Courts. They were very poor. I got on the phone, and I called the Presley residence and Gladys, Mrs. Presley, answered the phone.

FN: Was Elvis' family aware of what was happening on the radio?

Wink Martindale: They were listening, of course, and they were very excited about the way the audience was reacting to 'That's All Right Mama', Elvis' first record. I said, 'Mrs. Presley, Dewey would like him to come down to the studio. He wants to interview him. Where is he?' She said, 'Well, he was so nervous about his record being played. He went to see a double-feature Western. You'll find him at Suzores Theatre on Decatur Street'.

They got in their truck, and they went over to the Suzores and walked up and down the dark aisles. There was Elvis sitting all by himself watching this Western movie. They whispered to him about the excitement being generated by 'That's All Right Mama'. He, of course, was excited. They came down to the station. Dewey put him on the air and interviewed him. It was his very first interview as a pro. I met him that night, and he remained my friend until the day he died.

FN: What surprised you the most about Elvis?

Wink Martindale: He was a giver. Very few people knew that he gave away literally millions and millions of dollars to charitable organizations not only in this country but all over the world.

He was a great giver. If he was your friend, he was your friend until the day you died. I mean he would always be your friend and do anything for you that you needed him to do. He was that kind of a person.

Vinyls Delayed

The 'Follow That Dream' 2-LP 'Girl Happy' has been delayed by at least 3 weeks due to production problems. The vinyl is now expected in May. This also effects the shipping of re-issues of 'The Last Tours' and 'The /Blue Hawaii Sessions' sets.

The LP version of the MRS 'Elvis - Live at the Houston Astrodome 1974' release – on both black and transparent vinyl – has been delayed due to a delay in the production process at the supplier, this edition is now expected in May.

Pop Icon

Taylor Prescott published the 187-page book 'American Pop - Icons: Elvis'. 

Description: 'American Pop - Icons: Elvis' is the debut volume in the new 'Icons' spin-off of the bestselling 'American Pop' series, a bold cultural history that positions Elvis Presley as more than just the King of Rock and Roll. In this sharp, engaging analysis, Taylor Prescott traces how a shy boy from Tupelo became one of the most iconic figures in American life, redefining fame, race, sex, youth, and identity in the process.

Through rich storytelling and sharp cultural insight, Prescott examines Elvis as a brand, a mirror, and a catalyst for change. Perfect for fans of pop culture, music history, and anyone interested in how a single performer came to reflect the hopes, anxieties, and contradictions of twentieth-century America.

This is not just a biography. It's a deep dive into how Elvis’s image and sound transformed American culture. From the Pentecostal rhythms of his Mississippi childhood to the media frenzy of his television appearances, from his explosive impact on 1950s youth culture to his controversial place in the racial politics of rock and roll, 'American Pop Icons: Elvis' explores the man behind the myth—and the myth that shaped a nation.

(Source: Pascal Matteo / New York Times / Wikipedia / Elvis Australia / FECC / Reuters / UEPS / ElvisMatters / Amazon)

April 14 - Softly, As I Leave You: Life After Elvis - A Memoir

The title and release date of Priscilla Presley's follow-up her 'Elvis And Me' memoir were revealed. The new 336-page book, titled 'Softly, As I Leave You: Life After Elvis - A Memoir' will be released as both a paperback and (signed) hardcover edition on September 23, 2025 by Hachette Book Group / Grand Central Publishing. The book will also be available in other languages from different publishers.

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.

About the Authors. Priscilla Beaulieu Presley is a businesswoman, author, designer, producer, and actress best known for her roles in the television drama Dallas and the Naked Gun movies. As the cofounder and former chairperson of Elvis Presley Enterprises, she is credited with turning Elvis Presley's mansion, Graceland, into the second most visited historic home in the United States. As a key architect of the Elvis Presley legacy, she has curated and produced albums, books, films, and concerts honoring the late music legend. She lives in Los Angeles near her son and grandchildren, where she continues her lifelong commitment to animal advocacy.

Mary Jane Ross is an award-winning college professor and writer, honored with the NAACP Image Award for Best Biography or Autobiography, with Ray Charles Robinson. Her collaborations span subjects as diverse as Judy Garland, Frank Sinatra, Piper Laurie, Mafia hitman Roy DeMeo, and Congressmember Nancy Mace. Softly, As I Leave You, with Priscilla Presley, marks her ninth memoir. Her body of work also includes poetry and an online grammar textbook for second-language students. She lives in her native Southern California.

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

Note: the cover art shown are temporarily placeholders from the German Hannibal Verlag and the U.S. Premiere Collectibles websites.

Update April 18: Priscilla posted on Facebook: "I am excited to share with you that I have completed my new memoir, "Softly, As I Leave You," to be published this September. I have learned so much about love, grief, joy, and transformation in the years since I lost Elvis. I am finally ready to share my personal journey with you in the hope that it will help you on your own. Priscilla". 

She added the black and white cover, so that could very well be the definitive cover.

Gold Record

The 'Blue Christmas' duet between Kane Brown and Elvis Presley was certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for selling over 500,000 physical and digital copies in the United States. The duet was released on October 27, 2023. 

From Florida To Hawaii Released

The French RDM-Edition record label released the CD  'From Florida to Hawaii' CD and features music from the 'Follow That Dream' and 'Girls Girls Girls' soundtrack albums. 

The CD sold out on pre-orders.

Description: Following the success of his 4-CD set 'The Essential 50's Masters - Mono II Stereo', Anthony Stuchbury is back with a new album: 'From Florida To Hawaii'. This new CD includes the EP 'Follow That Dream' in Mono II Stereo, as well as the album 'Girls! Girls! Girls!', which has been completely remixed to provide a more authentic and immersive stereo listening experience. 

In the original RCA mix, all the instruments were on the left channel, Elvis on the center channel, and the Jordanaires were alone on the right channel. Tracks like 'Return To Sender' always sounded weak in the original stereo mix. This problem has finally been corrected. With the rhythm section blasting the track in the center, everything sounds much better. This is the stereo version fans will listen to from now on... 

Listen to previews or buy the CD at the >>> RDM Edition webshop.

(Source: Grand Central Publishing / Amazon / RDM Edition)

April 12 - Record Store Day

April 12th is Record Store Day 2025 and three new Elvis LP's were released today. The only official Elvis-themed RD-LP was released by the Omnivore Record label with 'Viva Doc Pomus: Songs For Elvis (The Demos)' . A double LP on opaque orange colored vinyl, but unfortunately this LP does not contain performances by Elvis Presley.

From the French V.P.I. record label fans of vinyl got the triple LP-set '1960: Everybody's Got The Fever ...' on cloud colored vinyl and the single LP 'Elvis Sings Sid Tepper & Roy C. Bennett - Just For Old Time Sake' on two-colored red and blue colored vinyl. These sets are not official RSD releases as they were not listed on the official RSD website. The sets are limited to 1,500 copies and were also released on CD as vinyl replica's. 

Publicity for 'Viva Doc Pomus: Songs For Elvis (The Demos)' stated: 'A Teenager In Love',  'Save The Last Dance For Me', 'This Magic Moment', 'Can’t Get Used To Losing You'. There’s not much in early rock history that can equal those songs. Doc Pomus wrote hit after hit with an array of songwriting partners with Mort Shuman chief among them. Together they created a template for the sound of the late 1950s and early ’60s. Writing timeless classics covered by artists around the globe, one artist was King, Elvis Presley. 

Pomus / Shuman were the names on the sheet music for many a remarkable Elvis recording. 'Viva Las Vegas', '(Marie’s The Name) His Latest Flame', 'She’s Not You', all classics. So, where do all those songs start? The demos.

Painstakingly transferred, restored and mastered from the original acetates with full approval and cooperation of the Pomus estate, 'Viva Doc Pomus: Songs For Elvis (The Demos)' explores the recordings submitted to Presley for his consideration to record. Some (the afore mentioned hits and more) were recorded and released by Elvis, while others fell by the wayside for reasons lost to time, or recorded by other artists, and we’re left to imagine what might have been had The King recorded and released them.

Available on a double opaque orange-colored LP for Record Sore Day, the origins of Rock and Roll are in full force on 'Viva Doc Pomus: Songs For Elvis (The Demos)'. Hear what Elvis heard for yourself and wonder what could have been! Viva Doc Pomus indeed!

Side 1:

1. Turn Me Loose 2:16

2. A Mess Of Blues 2:53

3. (Marie’s The Name) His Latest Flame 2:14

4. Kiss Me Quick 2:51

5. She’s Not You 1:39

6. Gonna Get Back Home Somehow 2:30

7. Suspicion 2:34

8. Pot Luck (Pomus/Shuman Version) 2:34

Side 2:

1. Viva Las Vegas 2:34

2. Lady Luck 1:46

3. (It’s A) Long Lonely Highway 2:23

4. Kissin’ Cousins 2:25

5. I Need Somebody To Lean On 3:17

6. Girl Happy 2:04

7. One Way Ticket To The Blues 1:56

8. Pot Luck (Pomus/Spector Version) 1:46

Side 3: 

1. Kissin’ Fool 2:14

2. I Walk The Muddy Road To Love 2:08

3. What Every Woman Lives For 2:36

4. I Wish I Were In His Shoes 2:27

5. I’m A Man 0:30

6. Clambake (Version 1) 2:41

7. Double Trouble (Version 1) 3:11

8. Pot Luck (Pomus/Jeffreys Version) 2:03

Side 4:

1. Havin’ A Ball 2:12

2. Double Trouble (Version 2) 2:12

3. Clambake (Version 2) 1:58

4. Bring My Poor Heart Back To Me 2:45

5. Headin’ For A Heartache 2:00

6. Easy Come Easy Go 2:20

7. ... Presley Liked Them 2:05

Publicity stated: The album 'Just For Old Time Sake' highlights the collaboration between Elvis Presley and the songwriting duo Sid Tepper and Roy C. Bennett. These authors wrote 42 songs for the King, mainly for his films, which although sometimes considered minor, have marked generations. 

This album brings together Alternative Takes of songs recorded between 1957 and 1962, including several from 'Blue Hawaii'. This best-of compilation showcases the impact of Elvis' cinema and the importance of these songs in his musical and film career.

Side A: Lonesome Cowboy (Take 20 / 25, Master) - New Orleans (Movie Version) - Shoppin’ Around (Version 1, Take 1) - G. I. Blues (Take 6) - A Cane And A High Starched Collar (Movie Version) - Hawaiian Sunset (Take 3) - Slicin’ Sand (Take 4) - Ito Eats (Take 2) - Island Of Love (Take 8) - Beach Boy Blues (Take 3, Movie Version).

Side B: Angel (Take 6) - For The Millionth And The Last Time (Take 1) - Just For Old Time Sake (Take 1) - The Walls Have Ears (Take 12, Master) - Song Of The Shrimp (Take 6, Master) - A Boy Like Me, A Girl Like You (Take 2) - Earth Boy (Take 9, Master) - Take Me To The Fair (Take 7) - Relax (Take 7).

In 1960, the famous composer Leonard Bernstein said: “Elvis Presley is the greatest cultural force of the 20th century… He introduced rhythm into everything and he changed everything, music, language, clothes, it’s a whole new social revolution from which the 60s came.”

And it’s true that Elvis knew how to sing everything! This triple album offers 54 tracks, the vast majority of which are Alternative versions A unique compilation, never made, exceptional in every way,illustrating the many different facets of the artist Elvis Presley.

LP 1 - Side A: Make Me Know It (Take 9 - 11) - Soldier Boy (Take 2 - 3 & 7) - Stuck On You (Take 1) - Fame And Fortune (Take 4 - 5) - A Mess Of Blues (Take 2 - 3) - It Feels So Right (Take 4 & 3) - Fever (Take 1) - Like A Baby (Take 3 - 4) - It’s Now Or Never (Take 2).

Side B: The Girl Of My Best Friend (Take 2 & 4 - 6) - Dirty, Dirty Feeling (Take 1) - Thrill Of Your Love (Take 1 - 2) - I Gotta Know (Take 1) - Such A Night (Take 1) - Are You Lonesome Tonight (Take 1 - 2) - The Girl Next Door (Went A’Walking) (Take 1 - 3) - I Will Be Home Again - Reconsider Baby.

LP 2 - Side C: Shoppin’ Around (Version 1, Take 5) - Didja’ Ever (Take 1) - Doin’ The Best I Can (Take 1 - 3) - G. I. Blues (Take 1) - Frankfort Special (Remake, Take 6 - 8) - Tonight Is So Right For Love (Take 4) - Big Boots (Slow Version, Take 2 & 3) - What’s She Really Like (Take 12 & 13) - Blue Suede Shoes - Wooden Heart (Take 1).

Side D: Pocketful Of Rainbows (Version 1, Take 10) - Tonight Is All Right For Love (Take 1) - Black Star (Take 5) - Summer Kisses, Winter Tears (Take 10, 12, 14) - Britches (1’41) - A Cane And A High Starched Collar (Take 6 & Insert Take 1, 5, 6) - Flaming Star (Take 2) - Black Star (End Title Version - 1, 2, 4, 5) - Flaming Star (End Title Version - Take 1, 3, 4) - Milky White Way (Take 1 - 2) - I Believe In The Man In The Sky (Take 1) - His Hand In Mine (Take 4).

LP 3 - Side E: He Knows Just What I Need (Take 5 - 7) - Surrender (Take 8 - 9) - Mansion Over The Hilltop (Take 2 & 1) - In My Father’s House (Take 7) - Joshua Fit The Battle (Take 2) - Swing Down Sweet Chariot (Take 2 - 3) - I’m Gonna Walk Dem Golden Stairs (Take 2 - 3) - If We Never Meet Again - Known Only To Him (Take 1 - 2) - Crying In The Chapel (Take 2 - 3) - Working On The Building (Take 3 - 4).

Side F: Lonely Man (Take 4) - In My Way (Take 1) - Wild In The Country (Take 14) - Forget Me Never (Take 2, 1) - I Slipped, I Stumbled, I Fell (Lower Key Version) - Lonely Man (Solo Take 1) - Husky Dusky Day - Fame And Fortune (26.03.1960) - Stuck On You (26.03.1960) - Stuck On You (26.03.1960) - Love Me Tender (Reprise - 26.03.1960) - Make Believe - If I Loved You - She Wears My Ring - Ladwy Miss Clawdy.

Bonus Songs: Stuck On You (26.03.1960) - Fame And Fortune (26.03.1960) - Witchcraft & Love Me Tender (26.03.1960 - Frank Sinatra) - Love Me Tender (Reprise - 26.03.1960 - Frank Sinatra) - I Wonder I Wonder I Wonder - Sweet Leilani - Beyond The Reef - When The Swallows - Come Back To Capistrano - He Hands Off.

The 'Just For Old Time Sake' LP-set is available from >>> Bennies Fifties.

The '1960: Everybody's Got The Fever ...' is available from >>> Bennies Fifties.

April 12 - Charts April 2025 - Week 2

Elvis Presley's presence on the charts is still limited to the United Kingdom alone, and unfortunately sales are dropping. 

On the Official Album chart, the 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' selection dropped 10 spots, from No. 52 to No. 62. On the nation's Streaming Album chart the album lost 8 places and fell from No. 45 to No. 53.

Both 'Elvis The Searcher' DVD and the 'Elvis at the Movies' DVD-set fell off the U.K. Music Video chart, from No. 34 and No. 39 respectively. 

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

April 11 - Las Vegas - Down In The Alley 1974

The Memphis Recording Service announced the release of 'Las Vegas - Down In The Alley 1974' featuring a newly created Stereo Mix of Elvis' August 19, 1974 Opening Show performance. 

Publicity stated: 'Las Vegas - Down In The Alley 1974' features Elvis’ Opening Night show at the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel on 19 August 1974. 

At the start of his eleventh Vegas season, he performed an almost completely revamped setlist introduced and singing many unique songs, like ‘Good Time Charlie's Got The Blues’, ‘Promised Land’, ‘It’s Midnight’, ‘If You Talk In Your Sleep’, ‘If You Love Me (Let Me Know)’ and the title track ‘Down In The Alley’. 

Also introduced were 'Softly As I Leave You’, ‘My Baby Left Me’ and ‘I'm Leavin'’. For the first time ever, the original Mono recording has been remastered and mixed into Stereo. 

The accompanying booklet in the Deluxe Digibook CD-set features rare photographs and memorabilia from the event and also includes liner notes that set the scene. The vinyl edition, housed in a gatefold sleeve, will be available on black and on clear vinyl. 

The vinyl and CD version contain the same tracks: Big Boss Man - Proud Mary - Down In The Alley - Good Time Charlie’s Got The Blues - Never Been To Spain - It’s Midnight - If You Talk In Your Sleep - I’m Leavin’ - Let Me Be There - Softly As I Leave You - If You Love Me (Let Me Know) - Love Me Tender - Polk Salad Annie - Band Introductions - Promised Land - Introduction Of Telly Savalas - My Baby Left Me - Bridge Over Troubled Water - Fever - Hound Dog - Can’t Help Falling in Love

Note: This was the show when Elvis was fooling around with the text of 'Good Time Charlie's Got the Blues', singing after the line: "Play around, you'll lose your wife" he says "Already done that !" And after the line: "Play too long you'll lose your life" he says "Almost did that!"

The show was previously released in Mono by the Follow That Dream collector's label on the 2-CD set 'Nevada Nights' (2008), but also on 'If You Talk In Your Sleep' (Fort Baxter, 1994) and 'From Sunset Boulevard To Paradise Road' (Diamond Anniversary Edition, 1995).

Rock and Roll No. 2

The Waxtime record label re-issued classic U.K. HMV album 'Rock and Roll No. 2' as a Limited Edition with 8 Bonus Songs on 180 Gr. Virgin vinyl.

Publicity stated: Presley’s second LP for RCA, titled Elvis, was released in Mono in October 1956 (it would be retitled 'Rock & Roll Nº 2' six years later). It is widely regarded as one of the best albums of the Fifties and of Elvis’ entire career. 

Most of the sessions took place on September 1-3, 1956 at Radio Recorders in Hollywood. The disc spent four weeks at Nº 1 on the Billboard Top Pop Albums chart in 1956, making Presley the first recording artist to have two albums go straight to number one in the same year.

Side A: Rip It Up - Love Me - When My Blue Moon Turns To Gold Again - Long Tall Sally - First In Line - Paralyzed.

Bonus Songs: Hound Dog - Jailhouse Rock - Don't Be Cruel - Blue Suede Shoes.

Side B: So Glad You're Mine - Old Shep - Ready Teddy - Anyplace In Paradise - How´s The World Treating You - How Do You Think I Feel.

Bonus Songs: Mystery Train - All Shook Up - Heartbreak Hotel - That's All Right.

Houston Astrodome

The first copies of  the Digibook CD edition of the ‘Live At The Houston Astrodome 1974’ were received by fans according to various pictures on Facebook. The official release-date is April 25, 2025.

Publicity for the set stated: Near the start of his extensive tour on March 3, 1974, Elvis made a major appearance at one of the country’s biggest venues, The Astrodome in Houston Texas, entertaining well in excess of 88,000 fans that day. 

The CD contains Elvis’ performance from March 3, 1974, and for the first time ever, this recording is presented in stereo. The booklet includes rare photographs and memorabilia from the event which set the scene for this historic performance. The LP version will be available on both black and clear vinyl

(Source: MRS / Elvis Information Network / Phoenix Elvis Forum)