June 17 - Elvis Mono Stereo Exclusive

BBC's Matt Shepherd has written three books on Elvis and appeared on 24 BBC radio stations talking about Elvis. His 'Golden Years' on-line radio shows are very popular and this week's show includes an Elvis World Premiere! 

Special guest Anthony Stuchbury, producer of the 'Elvis Mono II Stereo series, and designer David Parker discuss their recent work and play three exclusive tracks from this brand new RDM Edition release.

There's also a triple treat from Roy Orbison, a US mini chart countdown from October 1958, plus hits from Matt Monro, The Small Faces and The Kinks.

Go to the >>> Mix Cloud website to listen.

The new Mono II Stereo album is out this Friday 21 June 2024. Go to >> RDM for great Sound Samples and to order.

Popular Celebrities

Joann Roseline published the 53-page booklet 'Elvis Presley Biography (Biographies of Popular Celebrities)'.

Publicity stated: Are you ready to embark on a journey through the life of a legend? Have you ever wondered what it takes to become an icon? How does one man capture the hearts of millions and leave a lasting legacy? Who was the man behind the music?

In this captivating biography, delve into the extraordinary life of Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll. Uncover the secrets behind his meteoric rise to fame and the battles he fought along the way. Discover the man who defied conventions, shattered records, and became an enduring symbol of rebellion and individuality.But this isn't just a story of success, it's a tale of determination and resilience. From his humble beginnings in Tupelo, Mississippi, to his groundbreaking performances in Las Vegas, witness Elvis's unwavering pursuit of his dreams. Through the highs and lows of his career, experience the power of unwavering passion and the triumph of the human spirit.Key

In this book you'll find:

• Gain insight into the personal struggles and triumphs that shaped Elvis Presley's life.
• Discover the untold stories behind his most iconic songs and performances.
• Understand the impact Elvis had on popular culture and music as we know it.
• Learn valuable lessons from his rise to fame and his ability to reinvent himself.
• Experience the emotional journey of a man who defied expectations and left an indelible mark on the world.
• Are you ready to be inspired, entertained, and enlightened? Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to discover the true story behind the legend. Join us on this unforgettable journey through the life of Elvis Presley, and let his music and legacy ignite your own passions.

Purchase your copy of "The King's Symphony: The Life and Legacy of Elvis Presley" now and immerse yourself in the captivating world of the King of Rock and Roll. The legend awaits.

June 16 - Milestones From the Mastertapes

Due for release soon (from the Straight Arrow import record label?) are the CDs 'The King at the War Memorial - From the Chris Brown Master Tapes Vol. 1', featuring the Friday, June 25th 1976 tour Opening Show, War Memorial Auditorium, Buffalo, NY and 'The King in the Salt City - From the Chris Brown Master Tapes Vol. 2' with the Sunday, July 25th 1976 Evening Show, Onondaga War Memorial Auditorium, Syracuse, NY. Both CDs come housed in a digipack.

Publicity for 'The King at the War Memorial - From the Chris Brown master tapes Vol. 1' stated: "My brother, David, a friend from our local church, Stephen Peslar, and I drove to Buffalo on Friday, June 25 to see the first show of a new tour. Buffalo was less than a two-hour drive from Toronto, and there was no difficulty finding the “Aud.” We searched for tickets. I felt the added pressure of needing to find three tickets.

It was a very good show. I heard many songs live for the first time, with the highlights being two complete versions of 'Hurt', 'America the Beautiful' and performances of both 'Polk Salad Annie' and 'Burning Love' not often done in the same show.

It was also the first time I heard the extended 'Amen' following 'I Got A Woman', which of course years later, and dozens of soundboards later, not a highlight anymore. Elvis also performed a new song for me tonight - 'Happy Birthday To You' (to Barbara).

This performance stands out as one of my favourites of the twenty-nine I saw. It was a really wild crowd (so many Canadians), and I think Elvis was surprised at their reaction to him. I miss seeing him in person. Always exciting, always fun, and always entertaining. A real joy. So long ago...” (excerpts from liner notes by Christopher Brown).

01. Introduction: Also Sprach Zarathustra

02. C.C. Rider

03. I Got A Woman / Amen 

04. Love Me

05. If You Love Me (Let Me Know)

06. You Gave Me A Mountain

07. All Shook Up

08. (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel

09. And I Love You So

10. Jailhouse Rock

11. Fever 

12. America The Beautiful

13. Polk Salad Annie

14. Introductions of singers, musicians, orchestra

15. Early Mornin' Rain

16. What'd I Say

17. Drum Solo (Ronnie Tutt)

18. Bass Solo (Blues, Jerry Scheff)

19. Piano Solo (Tony Brown)

20. Electric Piano & Clavinet Solo (David Briggs)

21. Love Letters 

22. School Day

23. Hurt #1

24. Hurt #2 

25. Burning Love

26. Happy Birthday (to Barbara)

27. Funny How Time Slip Away

28. Can't Help Falling In Love

29. Closing Vamp & Announcements.

All tracks recorded live from audience on June 25th, 1976.

Note: this audience recordings of this show were previously released as 'One Helluva Night‘ (1993) and on 'The Bicentennial King Vol. 1‘.

Publicity for 'The King in the Salt City “From the Chris Brown Master Tapes Vol. 2' stated: “My brother, David, and I left Toronto for Syracuse, New York expecting to see three shows (two in Syracuse, one in Rochester), but hoping for four as the first show of our short tour was on a Sunday, and Elvis might do a matinee. When we arrived, we learned he would not.

Although he would return in two days, it’s surprising that the Colonel had not consented to a matinee and free up Tuesday for another city - but it came to be known later that Elvis was really not up to performing two shows in one day. A matinee would often suffer and would usually be shorter.

This auditorium featured a fixed stage at one end of the building, with no seats behind Elvis or on the very sides of the stage – very unusual. Curtains draped the edges of the stage, and we couldn’t see Elvis until he was on the stage.

The show was good, though Elvis seemed to be really more interested in interacting

with his back-up singers and musicians. The show suffered with what some have

described as the ‘quick close syndrome - only three or four songs after a lengthy break for introductions, resulting in Elvis only singing for 5 to 7 minutes, though it often included the highlight of the show - 'Hurt'.

I was disappointed with this show after having seen the opening show of the previous tour in Buffalo, but perhaps the following two days would be better." (excerpts from liner notes by Christopher Brown).

01. Introduction Also Sprach Zarathustra

02. C.C. Rider

03. I Got A Woman / Amen

04. Love Me

05. If You Love Me (Let Me Know)

06. You Gave Me A Mountain

07. All Shook Up

08. (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel

09. And I Love You So

10. Jailhouse Rock

11. Fever

12. America The Beautiful

13. Polk Salad Annie

14. Introductions of singers, musicians, orchestra

15. Early Mornin' Rain

16. What'd I Say 

17. Johnny B. Goode 

18. Drum Solo (Ronnie Tutt)

19. Bass Solo (Battle Of New Orleans, Jerry Scheff)

20. Piano Solo (Tony Brown)

21. Electric Piano & Clavinet Solo (David Briggs)

22. Love Letters

23. School Day

24. Hurt (with reprise)

25. Hound Dog

26. Funny How Time Slips Away

27. Can't Help Falling In Love

28. Closing Vamp &Announcements.

All tracks recorded live from audience on July 25th, 1976.

Note: this audience recordings of this show were previously released as 'Stormin' Syracuse‘ (1999) and on 'Onondaga Nights‘ (2015).

Milestones of a Legend

Set for release on July 19, 2024 from the Fremata budget record label is the 10 CD set 'Milestones of a Legend' featuring 10 original albums with 31 bonus tracks. 

Buzz Cason Died

American singer, songwriter and recordproducer Buzz Cason died, he was 86. 

Cason owned the Creative Workshop studio in Nashville that was booked by Elvis in January 1977 for a recording session, which was famously cancelled

(Source: Pascal Matteo / Amazon / ETMAHM)

Jun 15 - Charts Jun 2024 - Week 2

The 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' compilation dropped a few spots on the U.S. Billboard and Official U.K. charts, but remained steady on the Irish charts.  

In Ireland the "Priscilla" movie dropped halfway through the movie charts. 

Official U.K. charts:

• Official Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' dropped from #57 to #58. 
• Official Streaming Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' remained steady at #47.
• Official DVD chart: 'ELVIS' jumped from #100 to #75.
• Official DVD chart: 'Priscilla' dropped off the chart from last week's #74.
• Official Physical Singles chart: 'On Fire In Toledo' made a re-entry at #41. 
• Official Physical Singles chart: 'Welcome Home Elvis' climbed from #65 to #57. 

Irish IRMA charts: 

• Official Irish Album chart: 'ELV1S 30#1 Hits' climbed from #75 to #72. 
• Official Irish Video chart: 'Elvis' climbed from #41 to #31. 
• Official Irish Video chart: 'Priscilla' dropped from #18 to #43. 

Billboard charts:   

• Billboard Top 200 Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' dropped from #169 to #182.
• Billboard Top Country Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' dropped from #31 to #33.
• Billboard Top Rock and Alternative Album chart: 'ELV1S 30 #1 Hits' dropped from #42 to #45. 

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

June 14 - Memphis Vinyl

Together with the 'Memphis' 5-CD-set ', a double LP edition of 'Memphis' will be released by RCA / Legacy on August 9, 2024. 

Graceland will release an exclusive ruby red colored edition too, limited to 1,000 copies. Publicity for this version stated: This Graceland Exclusive red vinyl 2-LP highlight collection of songs, taken from the comprehensive Memphis release, features newly mixed versions of select recordings, pure and without overdubs. Taking listeners through the many recordings Elvis had done while in Memphis, this 2 LP set collects songs recorded at SUN Records, American Studio and Stax sessions, his 1974 hometown show and his last recordings in Graceland.

The set is available on CD from >>> Amazon.

The set is available on LP from >>> Amazon.

(Associate links).

Side A - SUN Single Masters: That's All Right - Blue Moon Of Kentucky - Good Rockin' Tonight - Baby, Let's Play House - I Forgot To Remember To Forge - Mystery Train.

Side B - American '69: In The Ghetto - You'll Think Of Me - Don´t Cry Daddy - I´m Movin´ On - Any Day Now - Suspicious Minds.

Side C - Stax '73: Promised Land - If You Talk In Your Sleep - Take Goot Care Of Hear - Raised On Rock - It´s Midnight - Your Love's Been A Long Time Coming.

Side D - Graceland '76: For The Heart - Hurt - Way Down - Danny Boy - Moody Blue - How Great Thou Art (20.03.1974 - Mid-South Coliseum, Memphis, TN).

RCA / Legacy released a preview of the new set on YouTube. Losten to 'Polk Salad Annie' (Live at Mid-South Coliseum, Memphis, TN - March 20, 1974).

(Source: Elvis Club Berlin / JPC / Graceland / Sony)

June 13 - Golden Blues Boy Memphis

Due for release from RCA / Legacy on August 9, 2024 is the 5-CD-set ‘Memphis’ according to the appearance of the digital edition on the QoBuzz HQ-music website. 

Publicity stated: Memphis is a comprehensive collection that takes listeners through the many recordings Elvis had done while in Memphis - from his songs at SUN Records, to his American Studio and Stax sessions, through to his 1974 hometown show and finally, his last recordings in Graceland. 

Over 111 tracks, ‘Memphis’ captures Presley from his earliest sessions at Sun Studio - which occurred 70 years ago this Summer - to his final recordings in Graceland’s Jungle Room. Along the way, the Bluff City serves as both home and muse to Presley, playing a pivotal role in the dramatic arc of his artistry as he finds creative rebirth at American Sound in 1969, overcomes personal struggles at Stax in 1973, and brings his most extravagant and spellbinding live show to the Mid-South Coliseum in 1974. Produced by noted Elvis authority Ernst Jørgensen, with rare archival material and new liner notes by Grammy-winning music historian Robert Gordon, ‘Memphis’ will be released in 5-CD, 2-LP and digital configurations, giving fresh insight into the bond between Elvis and his eternal home.

With the exception of the Sun recordings, all tracks on ‘Memphis’ were newly mixed by four-time Gramma-winner Matt Ross-Spang at Southern Grooves in Memphis, with overdubs stripped away - leaving the listener with only what Elvis heard live in the studio. With this intimacy, new revelations abound - from Elvis’ intuitive chemistry with “The Memphis Boys” at American, to the subtle way he builds his vocal phrasing around his backing singers in the Stax sessions, or the palpable joy he brings to his final sessions in the Jungle Room. Through it all, the listener is standing next to Elvis - hearing exactly what he is hearing.

This 5-CD collection of Elvis’ songs over the years features 111 tracks, 88 of which are newly mixed versions of the select recordings, pure and without overdubs. More information on this 111-track set when available.

The set is available on CD from >>> Amazon.

The set is available on LP from >>> Amazon.

(Associate links).

 

CD 1: That's All Right - 2 Blue Moon Of Kentucky - I Don't Care If The Sun Don't Shine - Good Rockin' Tonight - Milkcow Blues Boogie - You're A Heartbreaker - Baby, Let's Play House - I'm Left, You're Right, She's Gone - I Forgot To Remember To Forge - Mystery Train - I Love You Because - Just Because - Trying To Get To You - I'll Never Let You Go (Little Darlin') - Blue Moon (Take 9/M) - Harbor Lights - I'm Left, You're Right, She's Gone (Slow Version) - When It Rains, It Really Pours - Tomorrow Night - My Happiness - That's When Your Heartaches Begin - I'll Never Stand In Your Way - It Wouldn't Be The Same Without You.

CD 2: In The Ghetto - Suspicious Minds - Don't Cry Daddy - Kentucky Rain - Mama Liked The Roses - Do You Know Who I Am - You'll Think of Me - True Love Travels On A Gravel Road - Long Black Limousine - After Loving You - I'll Hold You In My Heart (Till I Can Hold You In My Arms) - From A Jack To A King - Without Love (There Is Nothing) - Medley: It's My Way / This Time / I Can't Stop Loving You - It Keeps Right On A-Hurtin' - I'm Movin' On - Power Of My Love - Stranger In My Own Home Town - Wearin' That Loved On Look - Any Day Now - Only The Strong Survive - Gentle On My Mind - The Fair's Moving On - Hey Jude.

CD 3: Promised Land - Raised On Rock - I've Got A Thing About You Baby - If You Talk In Your Sleep - My Boy - Spanish Eyes - Help Me - I Got A Feelin' In My Body - It's Midnight  - Find Out What's Happening - If You Don't Come Back - For Ol' Times Sake - Just A Little Bit - Talk About The Good Times - Loving Arms - You Asked Me To - Good Time Charlie's Got The Blues - Your Love's Been A Long Time Coming - There's A Honky Tonk Angel (Who Will Take Me Back In) - Take Good Care Of Her - She Wears My Ring - If That Isn't Love - Three Corn Patches.

Disc 4 - (Live at Mid-South Coliseum, Memphis, TN - March 20, 1974): Also Sprach Zarathustra - See See Rider - I Got A Woman / Amen - Love Me - Trying To Get To You - All Shook Up - Steamroller Blues - (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel - Love Me Tender - Long Tall Sally / Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On / Your Mama Don't Dance / Flip Flop And Fly / Jailhouse Rock / Hound Dog - Fever - Polk Salad Annie - Why Me Lord - How Great Thou Art - Suspicious Minds - Introductions - Blueberry Hill / I Can't Stop Loving You - Help Me - An American Trilogy - Let Me Be There - My Baby Left Me - Lawdy, Miss Clawdy - Funny How Times Slips Away - Can't Help Falling In Love - Closing Vamp.

CD 5: Hurt - Never Again  - Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain - Danny Boy - The Last Farewell - For The Heart - Bitter They Are, Harder They Fall - Solitaire - Love Coming Down - I'll Never Fall In Love Again - Moody Blue - She Thinks I Still Care - Way Down - He'll Have To Go - Pledging My Love.

 
Note from FECC: These tracks seem to be missing from the American Sound Sessions: This Is The Story / A Little Bit of Green / My Little Friend / Inherit The Wind / I'll Be There / And The Grass Won't Pay No Mind / If I'm A Fool For Loving You / Who Am I? And from the Stax these tracks seem to be missing: Girl of Mine / Mr. Songman / Thinking About You / Love Song of the Year.

In the 'Behind The Box' video Matt Ross-Spang, Robert Gordon and Ernst Jørgensen discuss ‘Memphis’ and its significance.

New Script, Same Stage

The Millbranch Music import record label announced the release of the CD 'New Script, Same Stage' focusing on Elvis' music from the first 3 months of 1972. 

Publicity stated: We at Millbranch wanted to create an album that does justice to the recordings made at the beginning of 1972. For the part with the songs from the Opening show of January 26, 1972, we even had the opportunity to work with the original binaural tape and this clearly made an impact on the sound which presents the songs in a sound quality never heard before! The CD comes housed in a deluxe 2-panel digi-pack.

With this CD, we want to pay tribute to that turbulent time of the recording sessions where Elvis presented his new show in Las Vegas in January and February with a lot of new songs in his setlist and turned his feelings into music at Hollywood´s RCA Studio C, given the fact that his marriage was falling apart at the time. The result was a very emotional output of music as only Elvis was able to create because he had put his whole heart and feelings into the recordings, probably even meant as a public apology to his lost love. At least, the songs were kind of a statement – done coincidentally or not.

Although there never really was an Elvis Presley album from 1972 that had an impact as if recorded from the same mould, Elvis albums were indeed released that year. “Elvis Now” came out in January 1972, containing more folk-oriented songs such as Kris Kristofferson’s “Help Me Make It Through the Night,” featuring the big hit “Put Your Hand in the Hand” by Gene MacLellan from a group called “Ocean”. Elvis had previously sung MacLellan’s “Snowbird,” which was a big hit for Anne Murray, who also had “Put Your Hand in the Hand” on her album. Additionally, “Elvis Now” included Gordon Lightfoot’s “Early Morning Rain.” 

In January, Elvis also released a single from the LP “Until It’s Time for You to Go” by Buffy Sainte-Marie and “We Can Make the Morning” by Jay Ramsey. In April 1972, the gospel LP “He Touched Me” was released along with the single “Bosom of Abraham.” The album won a Grammy Award in 1973 in the “Best Gospel Album” category. In June, the LP “As Recorded at Madison Square Garden” was released in a rush, making it to the stores within a week and earning Elvis a gold record by August 1972. 

Although the music for the albums, aside from “Madison Square Garden”, were all recorded in 1971, there were indeed recording sessions planned for 1972. RCA had made significant investments to record during the winter season in Las Vegas, where Elvis presented his completely new show - a no-nonsense show with more drama, more music, and less interaction with the audience. 

In March, at RCA Studio C in Hollywood, new songs were to be recorded. These songs became some of the most iconic Elvis Presley songs, including “Burning Love,” “Always on My Mind,” and “Fool” by James Last. Unfortunately, the songs mostly came out on budget LPs from RCA Camden and in 1973 on the album “Elvis,” which the public called “The Elvis Fool Album.” This record was mainly filled with various leftover songs from the archive. 

It is unfortunate that the songs and the concept of the songs from early 1972 were never released as a full album because when you hear all the songs in an order, they do indeed fit together. We strongly believe that the songs on his new CD fit together very well! Hear Elvis at his best at the early stage of 1972!

Tracklist CD: The Impossible Dream (16.02.1972 MS) - Until It's Time For You To Go (26.01.1972 OS) - Polk Salad Annie (26.01.1972 OS) - Love Me (14.02.1972 MS) -  Never Been To Spain (14.02.14, 1972 MS) - It's Over (17.02.1972 MS) - Hound Dog (14.02.1972 MS) - Bridge Over Troubled Water (26.01.1972 OS) - Lawdy, Miss Clawdy (26.01.1972 OS) - You Gave Me A Mountain (15.02.1972 MS) - It's Impossible (16.02.1972 MS) - Little Sister / Get Back (14.02.1972 MS) - Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel (14.02.1972 MS) - Burning Love (Take 2) - Where Do I Go From Here (Take 6) - A Big Hunk O Love (17.02.1972 DS) - All Shook Up (14.02.1972 MS) - For The Good Times (Orchestral Overdub) - Fool - One Night (26.01.1972, OS) - An American Trilogy (15.02.1972, MS) - Separate Ways (Orchestral Overdub) - It's A Matter Of Time (Orchestral Overdub) - Always On My Mind (Orchestral Overdub) - Can't Help Falling In Love (26.01.1972, OS) - I'll Remember You (26.01.1972, OS).

The CD is available from >>> Bennies Fifties.

Golden Boy Elvis

The German Golden Boy Elvis magazine #2/2024 has been released. 

Synopsis for this high quality magazine: This edition contains articles on '70 years of ‘That's All Right’, a milestone in music history. Prof Dr Peter Wicke describes the history of its creation, context and reception. Remaining in the fifties, the magazine continues its fourth part in the series ‘Authentic Elvis - The Story of a Style Icon’. 

The editors jumped to the seventies, 1974 to be precise, and listened meticulously to the latest 3-CD-set from the Follow That Dream record label. A top-class review of the shows at the Stateline Sahara Hotel in Lake Tahoe that leaves no question of detail unanswered. Besides Elvis, songwriter Randy Starr's 'Lost Elvis Songwriter Demos Vol. 1’ gets a review too. 

The magazines popular series ‘Songs from A-Z’, ‘In Memoriam’ and the ‘Rillen Revue Remake’ and various other articles and of the course a look-back on the important Elvis news complete the magazine. 

For more information visit the magazine's website at >>> Golden Boy Elvis or contact the editor at service@golden-boy-elvis.de.

Your Blues

Volume 97 of the Polish Twój Blues magazine ("Your Blues") features an extensive feature on the early career of Elvis Presley and the behind-the-scenes recording of the landmark song 'That's All Right (Mama)', and in addition a review of the Elvis related CD 'Randy Starr - Presley Style'. Both aricles written by Elvis author Mariusz Ogiegło. 

(Source: Golden Boy Elvis / Mariusz Ogiegło / QOBuzz)

June 11 - A Little More Interaction?

A little more conversation and a little more interaction? That could be on the cards for the late Elvis Presley if he becomes the next artist to get avatar concerts. The Financial Times reported that Pophouse, the Swedish company behind ABBA Voyage, has held talks with Sony Music and Authentic Brands Group over potential avatar shows.

ABG owns the rights to Presley’s image and likeness, while Sony has the music rights. “There is no certainty a deal will be reached,” warned the report, which also noted that Pophouse co-founder Björn Ulvaeus recently talked publicly of his desire to “see the young Elvis come alive again”.

Pophouse, Sony and ABG declined to comment on the report, which claims the talks have focused on a commercial partnership rather than a sale of the music rights or IP.

Note: A separate production, Elvis Evolution, a collaboration between Elvis Presley Enterprises, Authentic Brands Group and immersive specialist Layered Reality, is due to launch in London this November, with further stops planned in Las Vegas, Berlin and Tokyo. It is not clear if the Financial Times is referring to this project. 

Soon For Sale

After teaming up with Gibson to create an Elvis Presley themed Bonneville for a charity auction, a new Elvis Edition T120 is on the way

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has listed a filing pointing to a new Elvis Presley Edition Triumph Bonneville being in the works.

The news of the filing comes from Motorcycle.com’s Dennis Chung, and while the actual filing doesn’t give much away about the new model, it does at least prove something new from Triumph is incoming. Details on the filing confirm a bike referred to as a Bonneville T120 Elvis Editon, and it’s listed alongside the 2025 Bonneville T120 and T120 Black. It also confirms the bike engine size of 1,200cc and gearbox type - manual six-speed - all of which are identical across the three Bonneville models.

The news of this Elvis Edition Bonneville comes just a month after a specially commissioned T120 was auctioned for more than $12,000 (around £16,000) which was donated to the Presley Charitable Foundation. That bike was painted up with a custom-themed paint job, with movie film elements running along the fuel tank and Presley’s ‘TCB’ and lightning-bolt motif emblazoned on the side covers. The TCB and lightning bolt stand for ‘Taking Care of Business in a Flash’ a phrase that was synonymous with Presley when he returned to the concert circuit in the late 1960s.

Alongside the custom T120 was a custom-made Gibson Les Paul guitar. It’s still too early to confirm what the paint on the T120 Elvis Edition will be. 

We also can’t tell when the new bike will be getting officially revealed. We can though assume that the timing of the Carb filing being made public means it could be later this year, ready for sale in 2025.

Update from Triumph

The Triumph Bonneville T120 Elvis Presley Limited Edition pays tribute to a cultural icon and the biggest solo music artist in history and celebrates the ‘Memphis Mafia Triumphs’ purchased by Elvis in 1965 for his closest friends.

With a stunning design scheme inspired by the J Daar custom Bonneville created for the Elvis Presley Charitable Foundation, this special T120 takes styling cues from Elvis’ most iconic ’68 Comeback Special performance to perfectly captures the era's timeless style.

Limited to just 925 motorcycles worldwide, each one is individually numbered and presented with a gold disc in a unique Elvis Presley and Triumph Motorcycles record sleeve containing a signed certificate of authenticity.

This special collaboration offers motorcycle and music fans a unique opportunity to celebrate their passion for music and motorcycling with the exclusive Bonneville T120 Elvis Presley Limited Edition.

Golden Bonus Single

At Memphis Mansion you can still order the gold sparkled vinyl edition of the 'Moody Blue' LP by FTD with an exclusive promo. 

If you need this in your collection, you can contact Mathias@memphismansion.com or go to the >>> Memphis Mansion website to make an order! Happy collecting to everyone.

(Source: Financial Times / Music Ally / Visor Down / Motor Cycle / IQ magazine)

June 10 - Las Vegas, On Stage Released

The MRS record label released the 4-CD-set and LP editions of 'Elvis Presley - Las Vegas, On Stage 1973', 2 weeks before the original release date. It features a newly created stereo mixes of the February 1973 rehearsals and performances as recorded at the Hilton Hotel in Las Vegas.

CD 1 - Rehearsals - January 25 1973.

CD 2 - Las Vegas Hilton – February 2, 1973 (Midnight Show).

CD 3 - Las Vegas Hilton - February 3, 1973 (Dinner Show).

CD 4 - Las Vegas Hilton - February 3, 1973  (Midnight Show).

The shows, recorded at the Hilton Hotel, are the first time presented here in stereo. 

Also included is a bonus CD containing room rehearsal recordings, days before the engagement began on 26 January 1973.

Note: the rehearsals were previously released on the Follow That Dream collectors label CD 'Elvis From Hawaii To Las Vegas' (2012), but this CD ran ca. 5% too slow. This was corrected in the Touchdown Productions CD 'Livin' on the Edge' (2014).

All other concerts have seen previous releases too, like the February 3, 1973 Dinner Show on Fort Baxter's 'It's A Matter if Time' (1993). 

For Sale

The Malibu mansion where Elvis Presley filmed a 1968 musical, "Live a Little, Love a Little," has hit the market for the first time in 40 years. 

Located on Matador Beach, the 2,861-square-foot, four-bedroom and four-and-a-half bathroom estate has been listed for US$8 million. 

The beachfront abode, listed by Shen Schulz of Sotheby’s International Realty – Malibu Brokerage, was featured in the 1960s classic film in which Presley starred alongside Rudy Vallee, Michele Carey and Don Porter. 

From Beginning to End

Willie Peachey published the 87-page book 'Elvis Presley: A Biography From Beginning to End'.

Publicity stated: From humble beginnings in Tupelo, Mississippi, to becoming the King of Rock 'n' Roll, Elvis Presley’s journey is a story of passion, innovation, and enduring influence. This book provides a comprehensive look at the life of the man who revolutionized music and left an indelible mark on popular culture.

Elvis' first recordings at Sun Studio with Sam Phillips heralded the birth of rock 'n' roll, with "That's All Right" setting the world ablaze. His meteoric rise continued with iconic national television appearances that broke racial barriers and influenced an entire generation. As Elvis transitioned to Hollywood, his films like "Jailhouse Rock" showcased his multifaceted talent, balancing a burgeoning film career with his musical pursuits.

Drafted into the Army, Elvis faced the challenge of maintaining his career and public image, while his military service in Germany spurred personal growth. His triumphant return to music, marked by the '68 Comeback Special, reinvigorated his career and led to his legendary Las Vegas performances. Despite personal struggles, Elvis’ influence on future generations remains profound, with contributions to rock 'n' roll that continue to resonate.

Discover a plethora of topics such as: early life in Tupelo, the first recordings at Sun Studio, national television appearances, transition to film and Hollywood dreams, military service and personal growth, the '68 Comeback Special and Las Vegas years and much more!

(Source: Eddy Vodden on Facebook / Fox Business / Amazon)

Review Elvis Seventy Three

1973 is a popular year with bootleggers it seems, the first 6 months of the year we almost got 20 titles on (multi) CD and vinyl sets, with 1973 material. These releases vary from 1 to 8 CD sets, and from single to double vinyl sets, some come in Mono, some in Stereo, some were remixed from Mono to Stereo or Matrix, some are undubbed, some overdubbed, some were recorded while rehearsing, some recorded on stage and some recorded in private at home. Some are official releases, most are bootlegs. And most of these titles contain previously released material, but occasionally one of the labels manages to present fans with previously unreleased material.  

• January 14, 1973 Aloha Concert (Hawaii 1973 - Stylus Groove)
• January 25, 1973 Rehearsals (Elvis Las Vegas On Stage - MRS)
• January 27, 1973 MS (Keeping The Show Alive - SR Records, The 1973 Live Anthology - Redemption, Elvis 1973 - The Soundbooth Collection & More! Vol. 1 - Redemption)
• February 2, 1973 MS (Elvis Las Vegas On Stage - MRS, Elvis 1973 - The Soundboard Collection & More! - Redemption, Live Anthology 1973 - The Soundboard Edition - Redemption)
• February 2, 1973 DS (Elvis Las Vegas On Stage - MRS)
• February 3, 1973 DS (Elvis 1973 - The Soundboard Collection & More! - Redemption, Live Anthology 1973 - The Soundboard Edition - Redemption, Las Vegas 1970 & 1973 - Homespun Records)
• February 3, 1973 MS (Elvis 1973 - The Soundboard Collection & More! - Redemption, Live Anthology 1973 - The Soundboard Edition - Redemption)
• February 05, 1973, MS (Keeping The Show Alive - SR Records)
• February 10, 1973 DS (Elvis 1973 - The Soundboard Collection & More! - Redemption)
• February 13, 1973 DS (The 1973 Live Anthology - Redemption, Elvis 1973 - The Soundbooth Collection & More! Vol. 1 - Redemption)
• February 21, 1973 MS (The 1973 Live Anthology - Redemption, Elvis 1973 - The Soundbooth Collection & More! Vol. 1 - Redemption)
• February 23, 1973 CS (The 1973 Live Anthology - Redemption, Elvis 1973 - The Soundbooth Collection & More! Vol. 1 - Redemption)
• May 12, 1973 MS (Elvis 1973 - The Soundboard Collection & More! - Redemption, Live Anthology 1973 - The Soundboard Edition - Redemption, Elvis At 3am Sahara Tahoe, Lake Tahoe 1973 - MRS)
• May 13, 1973 3 AM (Elvis 1973 - The Soundboard Collection & More! - Redemption, Elvis At 3am Sahara Tahoe, Lake Tahoe 1973 - MRS, Live Anthology 1973 - The Soundboard Edition - Redemption)
• June 20 1973 Tour Opening (The King In The City of Six Flags - Straight Arrow)
• August 7, 1973 MS (Elvis Seventy Three - Reel Trax)
• August 11, 1973 MS (The 1973 Live Anthology - Redemption, Elvis 1973 - The Soundbooth Collection & More! Vol. 1 - Redemption)
• August 11, 1973 DS (Elvis 1973 - The Soundbooth Collection & More! Vol. 1 - Redemption)
• August 19, 1973 MS (The 1973 Live Anthology - Redemption, Elvis 1973 - The Soundbooth Collection & More! Vol. 1 - Redemption)
• September 3, 1973 DS (Elvis 1973 - The Soundboard Collection & More! - Redemption, Live Anthology 1973 - The Soundboard Edition - Redemption)
• September 3, 1973 Closing Show (Elvis 1973 - The Soundboard Collection & More! - Redemption, Live Anthology 1973 - The Soundboard Edition - Redemption, Elvis Seventy Three - Reel Trax) 

And this is not counting the ‘70... 72... 73... Fragments - Rehearsals Tapes’ (Elvis One), ‘Elvis From RCA to Stax’ (Paradise Road Records), ‘The Memphis Record 1973’ (Acode), ‘Winter In Vegas’ and ‘Winter In Vegas - Addition’ (Elvis One), ‘1973 Studio Anthology’ (Redemption) and studio content of the before mentioned releases. And who knows, perhaps we’ll see more 1973 material appear later this year.
 
Now the Reel Trax record label treats us with a new Matrix mix of the September 3, 1973 Closing Night performance and  an Ambience recording of the August 7, 1973 Midnight Show performance and several bonus recordings from the engagement of which the latter show originates). Does this release add anything new to the abundance of 1973 titles? 
 
Design
 
As to be expected from this label, the design is top notch! A great action shot of our man, fitting 1973 typography on the outside and inside a modern design with a touch of the seventies, following the same color-setting. 

The liner-notes are short, presenting the memories of Reiko Yukawa - a Japanese fan and RCA employee (see the recent ‘Aloha From Hawaii - Through The Eyes of Japan’ book), asking Elvis to be the witness for her Vegas wedding - as well as an original review from the 1973 Summer festival. 

Content
 
The September 3^rd 1973 Closing Show performance was previously released as ‘The Funny Side Of Elvis’ (complete audience recording) by the Claudia Records label in 1995 and the Follow That Dream collectors label in 2004 as ‘Closing Night’ in 2004. The latter was an incomplete soundboard. 
 
On this new outing of the show we get “the best of both worlds” in a newly created Matrix mix, combining the quality of the soundboard recording with the atmosphere from the audience recording. The mix was done very well, the audio of both shows runs nicely in sync, and the combination creates a new sound and concert experience. As the first 6 songs were not recorded on the soundboard tape, these were sourced from the audience recording to create a complete concert, so the CD has a bit of a rough start and the Matrix mix starts from track 7, the 'Rock Medley'. On the positive side, for the first time in 30 years, we get this show complete.

The show itself is something you either like or hate. You can like it just for being an Elvis live performance, or for the “historical value” as it definitely is not your typical Elvis performance! We know Elvis’ Closing Night performances can be different from the standard show he did while residing in Vegas or Tahoe, but here Elvis may have taken one pill too much, resulting in some (almost) funny jokes and performances, but also anger, sloppiness and some erratic behavior on stage and toward the Hilton management. 
 

On the funny side I did enjoy the new lyrics for ‘Fever’ where he sings something like “Myrna Smith and JD Sumner had a very mad affair, when their wives and husband caught them they saw nothing but teeth and hair” still laughing about his own joke, he can’t finish the song properly. He also sings the lyrics of ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water” to the tune of ‘Suspicious Minds” and performs ‘What Now My Love' laying on a bed on stage, looking for his love (with Charlie Hodge nervously running around the bed) … Thanks to the new Matrix mix you can now, for the first time, really hear the interaction between Elvis, the band and the audience. On previous outings you only hear one side of what happened.
 
This goofing around - which stared with Elvis entering the stage with a monkey on his back - referring to the problems with the hotel management, and Elvis interfering with the hotel’s HRM department regarding his favorite maitre'd, even “threatening” the hotel with the lyrics ‘Mystery Train / Tiger Man’. This may have been funny when you are there, but now, 50 years later not so much to these ears. The show simply is too messed up, just like the singer on stage. For example, the changed lyrics of ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water” to the tune of ‘Suspicious Minds’ could have been funny if it was followed by descent version of these two classics. What a difference from the solid show Elvis did a few months earlier for the ‘Aloha’ broadcast!
 
That said, there are some nice live performances of ‘My Boy’, performed before it was recorded at Stax, ‘The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face’ and my favorite ‘Softly As I leave You’, that make this an interesting concert for collectors. 
 
The second disc contain the August 7 1973 Midnight Show performance. This was previously released as volume 6 in the ‘Top Acts in Vegas’ series by the Top Acts record label in 1995.  
 
The show is a big contrast with the first disc, and a pleasure to listen to if you prefer to listen to a more professional show with some solid performances. The Ambience recording sounds good, but I can’t compare it to the Top Acts version of this show as I don’t own that disc. But compared to online samples of that CD, this new outing sounds heavier with more emphasis on the bass. 
 
Added to this concert are 9 bonus performances - all audience recordings - of songs like ‘Make The World Go Away’, ‘Crying Time’, ‘Amazing Grace’, a rockin’ ‘Johnny Be Goode’ and ‘My Boy’ with a false start that includes ‘’Release Me’. All songs which weren’t standard on the set-list this engagement. So Next to the usual performances, this is a nice “best of”, wrapping-up the gems from this engagement. Overall I enjoyed listening to this second disc more than I did listening to the first CD. 
 
Conclusion
 
This new set by the Reel Trax record label is an interesting release for Elvis collectors as we finally get to hear “both sides of the story”, or should I say “both sides of this erratic experience” of Elvis September 3^rd 1973 Closing Show performance, thanks to the newly created Matrix mix. So yes, with this new release the label does add something new to the abundance of 1973 titles. Holding this new set in my hand also makes me realize that I may never have touched the FTD edition of the Closing Show after reviewing it mid-October 2004, 20 years ago! 
 
For me the reason to take this set off the shelve will be the second disc, which brought me a new and entertaining show with some great additional bonus songs.

The CD is available from >>> Bennies Fifties.

June 09 - That's All Right Promo

Erik Lorentzen's KJ Consulting announced the release of a promotional edition of their upcoming 'That's All Right' LP. 10 copies will be given away to buyers of the 'That's All Right - The Song That Changed The World' book / vinyl set. 

(Source: Elvis Files)

June 08 - New FTD Guide Book

Elvis author David Ward and a friend are considering putting out two two basic guidebooks to Elvis Presley's FTD releases from 1999 to 2024. In this video David discusses what they may look like and asks for your feedback.

Mark James Died

Singer songwriter Mark James died. He was 83. R.I.P. Thank you for the music, you wrote some of my all time favorites!

Elvis Presley recorded 5 songs (co-)written by Mark James: 'Suspicious Minds', 'Always on My Mind', 'It’s Only Love', 'Raised on Rock' and 'Moody Blue', Elvis’s last number one country hit before his untimely passing. Two of Elvis’ albums, 'Raised on Rock' and 'Moody Blue' were named after Mark’s songs. 

Mark’s legacy as a legendary songwriter has earned him induction into the Memphis Music Hall of Fame, New York Songwriters Hall of Fame, Nashville Country Hall of Fame and the Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame. BMI honored Mark at the turn of the century by including three of his co-written songs ('Suspicious Minds', 'Hooked On A Feeling' and 'Always On My Mind') as among the Top 100 Songs of the Century. 

Born and bred in Texas, in the mid to late ‘60s, Mark cut singles for Liberty, Ventural/Crazy Cajun, Bell, Scepter and Mercury Records with “She’s Gone Away” generating unprecedented regional success in New Orleans with sales of over 65,000, breaking the record in Louisiana for most singles sold in 1964. Fate intervened with producer Chips Moman encouraging Mark to move to Memphis and pursue a career as a triple threat, artist, songwriter, and producer. Signed as a staff writer to Moman’s publishing and production company, in 1968 Mark’s big break occurred when B.J. Thomas recorded “The Eyes of a New York Woman,” which became the songwriter’s first hit. A year later, Thomas cut two more of his songs, “Hooked On A Feeling” and “It’s Only Love,” which became major chart hits.

Soon thereafter, Mark’s life was changed forever when Elvis Presley cut “Suspicious Minds,” which would rocket to number one in 27 countries; its arrangement was almost identical to the Mark James original single, with the exception of the lead vocal. 

He recorded his own version of 'Suspicious Minds' in 1968 at American Studios with producer Chips Moman, but it failed to chart. A year later at his 1969 Memphis Sessions Elvis was looking for new material to record and heard 'Suspicious Minds'.

"Elvis wanted to hear the song over and over again, and learned it on the spot," said producer Chips Moman. Using almost exactly the same arrangement as James's original, Elvis took the song to number one in 1969 - rejuvenating his career.

Elvis would record a total of five singles written by Mark: “Suspicious Minds,” “Always On My Mind,” “It’s Only Love”, “Raised on Rock” and “Moody Blue”, two of Elvis’ albums, Raised on Rock and Moody Blue were named after Mark’s songs. Today “Suspicious Minds” is recognized as Elvis Presley’s all-time biggest single selling over 40 million records worldwide and is considered as the most important and influential single in his career. 

James talked of meeting Elvis in Vegas, "Elvis invited me to Vegas when 'Suspicious Minds' was charting and I remember he was at a table talking in a long room with Sammy Davis or Andy Williams way across the room. And I came in the room and Elvis stood up and walked clear across the room and said, “Hi Mark. How you been doing?” I said, “Man, this guy is something else" - He was a classy guy, you know! There's nobody like Elvis. He was one of a kind."

The Halliday Sisters, who provided the backing vocals on 'Suspicious Minds',  reacted: "Our hearts go out to the family of Mark James. He was a great songwriter & wonderful human being. He wrote “Suspicious Minds”, the last #1 hit for Elvis!

RIP Mark".

(Source: Elvis Presley In Japan / Elvis Club Berlin / Harpet Hills / Texas Heritage Association / Elvis Information Network)