July 20 - It's Elvis Time

The Dutch It's Elvis Time fanclub announced the publication of the Summer Edition of their self-titled magazine. 

Volume 311, currently at the printers, holds an extensive story about Elvis's death in August 1977 and the events that followed. Added to that is a wrap-up of the news, an interesting review of the  'Elvis June '75' CD-set and part 2 of 'Nashville Revisited 1970'. The magazine also investigates how some of Elvis' songs - rebellious, exciting, and sometimes even transgressive back in the day - would hold up with today's standards. 

For more information on the magazine and the fan-club, visit the >>> It's Elvis Time website.

July 19 - Charts July 2025 - Week 3

Elvis' record sales and streams only registered enough sales to hit the charts in the United Kingdom this week. 

The 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' compilation won two places on the Official UK Album chart, climbing from No. 74 to No. 72, but lost three spots on the Streaming chart, falling to  No. 63. This week the compilation notched up its 300th week on the chart.

To be updated over the weekend: Positive news from the Music Video chart, the 'Elvis at the Movies' DVD-set returned to that tally at No. 45.

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

July 18 - Virtual Previews

Sony Legacy released 'And I Love You So' Take 2 as another preview of the upcoming 'Sunset Boulevard' set. 

'Sunset Boulevard' is a comprehensive 5-CD collection spotlighting Elvis' recording sessions and rehearsals at RCA's historic Sunset Boulevard Studio. Spanning 1970 to 1975, it features Elvis recording for the first time with his legendary touring band, ultimately spawning the hits 'Burning Love', 'Always On My Mind' (1972) and 'T-R-O-U-B-L-E' (1975) from the 'TODAY' album. 

This special edition also includes 3 discs of rehearsals from 1970 and 1974 that capture both serious and light-hearted moments from Elvis in the studio. 'Sunset Boulevard' features 89 tracks, 34 of which are newly mixed versions, pure and without overdubs.

The set is available for pre-order from >>> Amazon (associate link) on CD and vinyl. 

The Colonel and the Preview

Talking about previews, the Elvis Archival Preservation Society got their hands on an early copy of Peter Guralnick's 'The Colonel And The King' book, and Jamie Kelley and John Michael Heath shared their first impressions after reading it. 

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

The Countdown is Over

The Elvis Evolution immersive experience opened after a nearly 8 month delay. Layered Reality Elvis Presley immersive experience in London (UK) which would bring the global musical icon back through the power of AI, augmented reality, live theatre and multi-sensory effects in a celebration of his life and legacy.  

Taking place at Excel’s new Immerse LDN entertainment district, Elvis Evolution is a high- energy, high-tech homage that promised an unforgettable experience that would take visitors on a journey through Elvis’s rise to fame, from his humble beginnings in Tupelo to superstar musical icon. Visitors would witness major milestones in the singer’s extraordinary career, such as some of his most memorable performances.

The experience finale was Elvis’ iconic ’68 special performance that captures the drama and triumph of what is described by many as the ‘greatest rock performance of all time’.

Through a partnership with Elvis Presley Enterprises and Authentic Brands Group, the custodians of the Elvis Presley estate, Layered Reality has been granted access to thousands of Elvis’s personal photos and hours of the star’s home-video archive, using state of the art technology to bring the musical icon to life.

Note: The original marketing promised fans an "AI version of Elvis singing some of his greatest hits", but that unique experience was silently removed from the show after one of the partners went bankrupt. The first reviews will let us know what we can expect. 

The First Review: 'The King of Rock and Roll did not enter the building'.

Amber Peake reviews the 'Elvis Evolution' for >>> London World: 

London welcomed a new experience dedicated to the King of rock n’ roll this week as Elvis Evolution has officially opened its doors at the ExCeL’s waterfront in London, and it wasn’t quite what we were expecting. 

Sandwiched between the Friends and Squid Game experiences, the new Elvis Presley themed attraction promises to transport fans through key moments of his life and career.

The new experience centres around Elvis' iconic '68 special performance and all the backstage drama that led up to his now career defining show. 

Guests are transported back to the 60s as soon as they enter the venue as you start off in a retro themed diner where you can grab a burger or a milkshake before entering the experience. The attraction then begins ‘backstage at the NBC studios’ just hours before Elvis’ comeback show takes place. Greeted by studio staff you are chosen to be the live audience for the performance.

Elvis’ childhood friend Sam Bell soon bursts in as he asks to see ‘EP’ before the show starts. But after being rejected by studio staff, he then reminisces about growing up with Elvis in Tupelo and invites the audience to take a journey back to their carefree days as kids.

Guiding you aboard a train to Elvis’ hometown, Sam starts to describe Elvis' early life and his rise to fame. Although the whole scene felt a bit confusing as one minute you were immersed in a train ride with your seats simulating the jolty tracks and the next was a monologue from Sam about his life growing apart from Elvis.

While it was interesting to learn about their friendship, it felt like Elvis’ story ended up becoming a bit overshadowed by Sam’s by the end of the scene.

The experience has an interval of sorts based at the Blue Hawaii bar themed on Elvis’ classic 1961 movie before the second half starts as you’re guided through Elvis’ backstage NBC dressing room before taking a seat in the studio for his performance.

For the attraction Elvis’ dressing room has been meticulously recreated for fans to explore. But you don't have much time to look around as you are led into the NBC studio for the performance to begin.

Despite Elvis Evolution having initially been promoted as an AI hologram show similar to that of Abba Voyage - Elvis was not in the building for the final experience. Instead recordings of the final comeback special show were played on big screens while a live band appeared on stage.

The experience does have immersive elements like Elvis’ cologne being pumped throughout for fans to smell and the different sets to explore but the cherry on top would of course have been to see a hologram performance.

That being said, it feels like the attraction is more directed to the new generation of Elvis fans who are perhaps not too familiar with his early life or rise to fame.

Online Elvis Evolution responded to a fan who was not happy with her "immersive experience": the first announcement about the show was made back in January 2024, before tickets were on sale and while the creative direction was still evolving. As with many complex productions, our concept developed significantly from those early stages. While we explored various technologies, we ultimately chose not to replicate Elvis’ irreplaceable performances, and instead crafted an experience where the story leads the technology, not the other way around. We cannot wait for you to see it!

(Source: YouTube / Sony / EAP Society / Elvis Evolution / London World)

Review Elvis UK Compact Volume 3

The third and final volume of the ‘Elvis UK Compact’ series by John Townson and Gordon Minto represents the culmination of what can only be described as the definitive encyclopedia of Elvis Presley's CD releases from 1983 to 2005. 

A trip that started in 2021 with the release of a digital flipbook and ended with the publication of the third volume of a 1,408-page trilogy five years later. 

Design 

 

No surprises in the design for this third volume in the ‘Elvis UK Compact’ trilogy. The pagination system is particularly clever, when combined with volumes 1 and 2, the three books create a seamless 1,408-page reference work that reads as one cohesive volume. 

Each section features full chronological and alphabetical listings for easy navigation and the 80-page song title index details the writers, the recording dates and shows which Outtake of a song can be found on which CD issued prior to the end of 2005. This attention to continuity shows the careful planning that went into the series' design. 

 

The book's format strikes an excellent balance between comprehensive reference material and readable narrative. Unlike dry academic texts, the authors sometimes like to share all  their research results, this volume maintains an engaging tone throughout, with the authors' personalities and enthusiasm shining through their meticulous research. 

 

Content 

 

What truly distinguishes the ‘Elvis UK Compact’ series from other discographies is the extraordinary level of detail provided for each release. The depth of the research and text may not be “everyone’s cup of tea”, but everything you can think of regarding U.K. CD releases is covered here. 

 

This third volume covers the last year of the 1983 to 2005 period for the CD releases, followed by CD-Singles, Various Artists, Promotional and CD-Recordable releases, a Song Index and Interview and Spoken Word releases. For me, as a fan who started to buy Elvis in the CD-era, this book is a trip down memory lane, more so than the books on vinyl, which for me are additions to the CD collection. 

 

Where the first two volumes were very much alike because they covered the “standard CDs”, this last volume is more of a mixed bag covering all other types of silver disc releases. The CD-Singles get the same coverage as the CDs. Take, for example, the coverage of Paul Oakenfold’s 2003 ‘Rubbernecking’ remix single. Rather than a simple listing with basic details, this single CD receives an entire page of analysis, context, and background information. This exemplifies the authors' commitment to providing not just facts, but understanding as complete as possible.

 

Seeing the complete overview, I discovered I have many of the CDs and only missed two CD-Singles. A good score, especially compared to the books on U.K. vinyl by these two gentlemen, showing too many items I’ll never own. Interesting to see were all the promotional and CD-recordable releases, they were “hot” in the late nineties and first years of this century. It illustrates how fast time goes by, the aforementioned remix single in 22 years old already, and I still remember when it came out. 

The only section of the book I wonder if it should have been included is the "various artists" compilations. Yes, Elvis is on there, but most of the discs aren't particularly interesting as they are themed compilations. 

There are exception of course, like the ‘Last Temptation of Elvis’ or the ‘The Very Best of Ann-Margret’ CDs which contained (at the time) unreleased material. Although we thought they did, but the authors demonstrate that wasn't actually the case, making this book useful for collectors. 

Besides that, these type of CDs are not Elvis releases in my opinion. And there simply are too many titles out there to be complete. I found the information on the licensing process very interesting, but would have left it at that. Overall it would have saved 140 pages. 

 

The book doesn't merely catalog releases; it tells the story behind each one. This contextual approach extends to various artist compilations where Elvis appeared, treating these releases with the same thoroughness as dedicated Elvis albums. The authors understand that completeness requires covering every aspect of Elvis’ CD presence, no matter how peripheral. 

 

Despite the "UK" designation in the title, the book's utility extends far beyond British shores. Many of the releases covered were distributed internationally, making this volume valuable for collectors worldwide. The authors acknowledge this broader appeal while maintaining their focus on the U.K. market, striking a balance that serves both local and international Elvis enthusiasts.

 

Being a collector, sometimes has its advantages, because if you bought all three volumes if this trilogy you get the exclusive ‘Beyond the Legend’ CD. The disc features tracks that charted in the United Kingdom, but weren't included on the original 1983 ‘Elvis the Legend’ CD-set, Making it a great complement to that historic release. A fun addition to this bible for CD collectors. 

 

Conclusion

 

John Townson and Gordon Minto created something genuinely special here, not just another discography, but the definitive guide to the Elvis’ 1983 - 2005 CD era. The book does include some information on post 2005 CD releases, but that is additional to a certain release within the time-frame of this book. 

‘Elvis UK Compact Volume 3’ represents the pinnacle of discographical research and presentation providing both a scholarly reference work and an entertaining read, a combination that's rare in this genre. The book doesn't just document Elvis’ CD releases, it puts the spotlight on each and every one of them. The authors' enthusiasm is infectious, making even the most technical details interesting to general readers while providing the depth that specialists require. 

In comparison, Paul Alner’s ‘Elvis on Record’ hardcover books are visually more attractive, thanks to the many bigger images, but lack the level of detail and background of the ‘Elvis UK books’. That isn't a bad thing, because each collector can chose the reference that suits him or her best. 

 

Volume 3 maintains the exceptional standards set by its predecessors while bringing this remarkable project to a satisfying conclusion. And with that conclusion, only one questions remains: will John and Gordon cover the years 2006 to 2025 as well?

 

Click here for the reviews of >>> volume 1 and >>> volume 2.

Order the book

The ‘Elvis UK Compact Volume 3’ is available from >>> www.elvisukbooks.co.uk webshop. The price is £50 (which for U.K customers includes p&p costs).

Irrespective of where you live in the world, everyone who has bought all three volumes will automatically receive a free CD comprising 23 tracks.

July 17 - Connie Francis Died

Connie Francis, who dominated the pop charts in the late 1950s and early ’60s with sobbing ballads like 'Who’s Sorry Now' and 'Don’t Break the Heart That Loves You' as well as up-tempo soft-rock tunes like 'Stupid Cupid' and 'Lipstick on Your Collar' has died. She was 87.

From 1958 until 1963 she was the third highest selling performer after Presley and The Beatles, with more than 25 hits. Her 1959 album 'Rock 'n' Roll Million Sellers' LP included the Elvis tracks 'Heartbreak Hotel' and 'Don't Be Cruel' while her Christmas album included both 'White Christmas' and 'I'll Be Home for Christmas'. In 1968 recorded a charming version of 'I'll Remember You'. Elvis owned several LPs and 45's in his personal record collection.

On meeting Elvis Francis said: "The first time I saw Elvis in person was shortly after his mother died. He was in the audience front row center at the Sahara in Las Vegas. Knowing that, I was just dying to meet him after the show.

I sang 'Mama' and he started to cry and left the showroom. That was it that night. The next day he sent me two dozen yellow roses with a note apologizing for leaving the show, but his mother had just died and that was the reason. He could not listen to 'Mama'.

Oh, one other thing about Elvis. He was always such a gentleman. I have to say that. With me and with everyone else I've known."

In 2016 she released a posthumous duet with Elvis on her own Concetta record label. The CD-Single featured duet versions of 'Love Me Tender' and 'Heartbreak Hotel'. It made the Top 30 in the United Kingdom on the 'Physical Singles chart.'

(Source: USA Today / NPR / NY Times / Variety / Elvis Information Network)

July 16 - Elvis Presley: The Concert Folios 1955 - 1977 (Updated)

Not yet announced by Joseph Tunzi's JAT Publishing, but mentioned in his last book 'The Definitive Vinyl Artwork of Elvis Presley, Vol. 2: The Back Covers' is his next release 'Elvis Presley: The Concert Folios 1955 - 1977'. 

The book covers 'the Ultimate Elvis Super Souvenirs' according to the advertisement. 

Sean did an interesting unboxing on the back covers book for his 'Sincerely Elvis' YouTube channel, click below to watch. 

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

Moviestar Retro

In Farbe und Bunt announced the July 28, 2025  publication of the 116-page German magazine 'Moviestar Retro'. 

Celebrating Elvis' 90th anniversary, the August / September 2025 issue features Elvis on the cover and inside an article on all of Elvis' movies. 

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

(Source: Sincerely Elvis / Amazon)

Review - Elvis Rocker - Revisited

Up next in the Memphis Mansion "vinyl re-issue program" is their interpretation of the 1984 compilation 'Elvis -  Rocker'. Is it worth adding this edition to your collection?  

 

Design

 

The original was an instant classic, emphasizing Elvis' roots seven years after his death. And while I thought this one couldn't be improved, Søren Karstensen managed to do just that! While keeping the spirit of the original, the now colorized picture really stands out against the original background. This is a cover that is suited for framing!

 

The back is a replica of the original, with a slightly different - and if I may say so - better image. The use of a motor wheel for the label is a brilliant idea. The LP comes on yellow, red, blue and transparent splattered colored vinyl, so plenty to choose from. Design-wise, this is a fine upgrade.

 

Audio

 

The big difference with the original is the audio, with the Mono Masters being upgraded to Stereo by the label's engineer Anthony Stuchbury. By now we are familiar with his work, but he still finds ways to improve on his own work on certain songs, so audio nerds may spot a few tweaks while others will simply enjoy the music and perhaps not realize that they are listening to a Stereo version, that's how authentic these classics sound.

 

I do realize that these new mixes are a matter of taste, but as an alternative to the originals, I for one enjoy these versions, and on vinyl these new Stereo Mixes have even more space to breathe making these Stereo Mixes a little more spatial than on CD to these ears.

 

The vinyl is from Danish Nordsø Records again, they know their vinyl, so no complaints here. Audio-wise, this is a great sounding upgrade.

Content

 

Rock and Roll / Rockabilly was hot again in the first half of the eighties. With the King of Rock and Roll in their catalog, it was only logical that RCA jumped on the bandwagon. Besides the horribly overdubbed 'I Was the One' they also released 'Elvis - Rocker'. 

What made this one of the better Elvis Rock and Roll compilations was the selection of songs - from his first singles and his 1956 and 1957 albums - that still had that raw edge that made Elvis the rocker that shocked society when he entered the living room through the speakers or television shows.

 

On this LP we get the exact same songs with the bonus songs 'Party' and 'My baby Left Me'. This matches the original selection of songs like Little Richard's 'Long Tall Sally', Carl Perkins's 'Blue Suede Shoes', Big Mama Thornton's 'Hound Dog' and 'Jailhouse Rock' by the same songwriters.

 

What can we say, this is the sound that made Elvis the "King of Rock and Roll", or should I say, "the Rocker". Content-wise, this is a rockin' upgrade.

 

Conclusion

 

This novelty album is a great update on all fronts: the design, the song selection and the Stereo mixes. And while it looks "designed" it sounds as raw as it should! This is the kind of compilation that should be in every fan's collection. 

I have only one complaint, just like its original, the running-time is still way too short!

You can order the LP at the >>> Memphis Mansion webshop. 

July 13 - Iconic Covers and Army Books

Hot on the heels of his book 'Elvis 1958 April - May', graphic biographer Paul Belard published his 214-page visual biography 'Elvis 1958 June - July - August'.

Publicity stated: His basic training completed on Saturday May 31st, Elvis left Fort Hood early in the morning on his way to Memphis where he would spend a two-week leave. On June 10th, he went to Nashville for a recording session. It would be his last session for nearly two years.

After his return to Fort Hood, Elvis was allowed to live off base because one of his parents was classified as dependent. He rented a house in Killeen, a town close to Fort Hood.

On August 8th, Elvis' ailing mother was moved to the Methodist Hospital in Memphis. The 12th he was granted an emergency leave and flew to Memphis. His mother passed away on the 14th. The funeral took place the next day. On the 24th, a devastated Elvis returned to Fort Hood.

The book is available through the >>> Amazon webshop, For a signed edition you can contact Paul Belard by email at >>> pbelard@hotmail.com

On the Elvis Information network you can read an in-depth >>> review on the 'April - May 1958' book that precedes this one.

The Elvis Information Network did a >>> Spotlight article on Paul Belard's work.

Iconic Covers

The Dutch Oor Music magazine listed the 50 most iconic album covers for their summer edition (July 2025). Of course Elvis' 1956 debut album is listed. 

(Source: Amazon / Oor)

July 12 - Charts July 2025 - Week 2 (Updated)

Elvis' record sales and streams only registered enough sales to hit the charts in the United Kingdom this week. 

The 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' compilation dropped four spots on the Official Album chart, landing at No. 74. It lost the same number on the nation's Streaming Album chart, falling to No. 60. 

Positive news from the Music Video chart, the 'Elvis at the Movies' DVD-set returned to that tally at No. 45.

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

July 11 - The Return of the Rocker, Revisited

The Danish Memphis Mansion announced the August 2025 release of the LP 'Return of the Rocker'. 

This revisited edition is a modern interpretation of the original remixed album, with new stereo mixes and bonus tracks. 

 

Side A: King Of The Whole Wide World - (Marie’s the Name) His Latest Flame - Little Sister - A Mess Of Blues - Like A Baby - I Want You With Me - I Feel So Bad

Side B: Stuck On You - Return To Sender - Make Me Know It - Gonna Ger Back Home Somehow - I’m Coming Home - Follow That Dream - Dirty Dirty Feeling

The LP is available for pre-order from the >>> Memphis Mansion webshop. 

(Source: Dorthe Back Richter Larsen / Memphis Mansion)