450-room hotel planned at Graceland

Plans also include upscale restaurant and sports bar

April 30, 2014
Mike Brown - The Commercial Appeal

Elvis Presley Enterprises Inc. is considering plans for a 450-room hotel, upscale restaurant and sports bar on its grounds alongside Graceland. 

Plans for the construction site were filed Wednesday afternoon with city of Memphis land use officials, according to Kevin Kern, Elvis Presley Enterprises public relations director.

Hnedak Bobo Group, a Memphis architectural firm, has been hired to design the new hotel, tentatively scheduled to open in 2015 under the name The Guesthouse at Graceland, Elvis Presley Enterprises said.

Putting up a new hotel follows the recent launch of a $43 million modernization of the boulevard, part of a larger goal of boosting Elvis Presley tourism above the 600,000 annual visitors to Graceland.

When Elvis Presley Enterprises changed hands recently, the new owners immediately sketched out ideas to expand Elvis Presley’s Heartbreak Hotel and display more Elvis artifacts. 

CORE Media Group of Los Angeles in December 2013 sold its 85-percent share of Elvis Presley Enterprises to New Jersey entrepreneur Joel Weinshanker and New York marketer Authentic Brands Group. Lisa Marie Presley continues to own 15 percent of the business, and Graceland Mansion.


source: http://www.commercialappeal.com

450-room hotel near Graceland considered

Apr 30, 2014 5:08 PM CDTUpdated: Apr 30, 2014 5:08 PM CDT
Tim Andrassy / FOX13 News

WHITEHAVEN, Tenn. (FOX13) -Elvis Presley Enterprises (EPE) is considering the development of a new hotel at Graceland to serve visitors who travel to Memphis to tour the famous home of the King of Rock 'n' Roll. 

The proposed 450-room hotel, tentatively called "The Guesthouse at Graceland," would be constructed along Elvis Presley Boulevard on the same side of the street as the mansion, on land acquired by Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. in 1994.

"When we started exploring plans for long term growth, a new hotel facility was a priority," said Jack Soden, CEO of Elvis Presley Enterprises. "We feel the time is right for growth at Graceland and we are excited about this proposed project, which would enable Graceland to enhance the visitor experience and deliver an even higher level of world class hospitality and customer service to the hundreds of thousands of guests who visit from around the world each year."

EPE management, along with the new owners of Graceland operations, who came aboard last November, have been exploring the best ways to make investments in the Graceland attraction in order to ensure its continued success for years to come.  The project would also provide an opportunity for EPE to increase hiring in Memphis, and, working closely with state and city government, improve the Elvis Presley Boulevard corridor.

"As Memphis City Council representative for the Whitehaven community, I fully support the proposal by Graceland management to build a new world class hotel facility, bringing jobs to our neighborhood and an economic boost to the city as a whole," said Memphis City Councilman Harold Collins. "My goal as Councilman will be to help ensure the proposed hotel becomes a reality as the renaissance continues along Elvis Presley Boulevard."

Memphis-based architectural firm Hnedak Bobo Group has been working with EPE on developing potential plans for the hotel project, which would be expected to open in August 2015. Current plans include a full service restaurant, a sports bar lounge and meeting/event space.

If the project proceeds, the impact to the surrounding neighborhood during construction is expected to be minimal. Community meetings will take place in the coming days to discuss potential plans and seek feedback, with public notices going out to area residents this week.

Nearly 32 years after opening to the public for tours, Elvis Presley's Graceland continues to be one of the most beloved landmarks in music and pop culture. In 2013, Graceland was voted the #1 Iconic Attraction in America by USA Today and 10Best.com readers. The attraction has played a crucial role in Memphis tourism, with Graceland visitors making a major economic impact on the city of Memphis and in the local Whitehaven community.


source: http://www.myfoxmemphis.com

The city of Tupelo, Mississippi, the birthplace of Elvis Presley, was hit hard by a tornado on Monday, April 28th, 2014. 

There is massive damage to certain parts of Tupelo, people lost their homes and several businesses were destroyed. The area around the Barnes Crossing Mall was hit the hardest by the tornado. The Mall didn't receive any damage, but did lose electricity. Outback Steakhouse, a Sleep- Inn Motel, Vanelli's Restaurant - a Mississippi tradition since 1975, and a Shell gas station are some of the places destroyed. 

Elvis Presley's Birthplace, is still standing, as it remained safe and did not receive any damage from the tornado. Other Elvis-related landmarks such as Tupelo Hardware and Lyric Theater were also untouched from the tornado. 

Gov. Phil Bryant visited Tupelo Tuesday, April 29th. 

"This will be a prolonged effort,” Bryant said of the recovery. "This will not be just days or weeks. This will take months to get this over with."

Following in the footsteps of Elvis who embraced a variety of charitable causes and always believed in helping those in need, the Elvis Presley Charitable Foundation is making a donation to the American Red Cross and Elvis fans can do the same by donating at this link.

Please keep the people of Tupelo in your thoughts and prayers. They have a long road to recovery. 


sources: http://www.djournal.com
http://www.wreg.com
http://www.graceland.com

The Elvis Files team is delighted to let you know about a new and very special project we have been working on for quite a while, which will be coming your way very soon!

Entitled 'Ultimate Elvis – The Complete And Definitive Recording Sessions' book, this three-volume, individually numbered, deluxe set (in a beautiful slipcase), not only comprises all the session information available to date, based on Keith Flynn's incomparable website keithflynn.com, but includes comprehensive notes on each session, discographies, reviews of every single, EP and album release, release dates, facsimiles of RCA's paperwork, session logs, listing notices, letters from Colonel Parker's office and RCA's archive, the reproduction of original sheet music covers (courtesy of Chris Giles), a huge index and a host of other things. 

Of course, as you have come to expect from The Elvis Files, the icing on the cake is a wealth of stunning photographs - approximately 1500 of them! - many of them previously unseen, relating to the time period in question. 

With major contributions from Erik Lorentzen, Keith
Flynn, Gordon Minto, Piers Beagley, Arjan Deelen, Alan Hanson, James V. Roy, as well as many other notable contributors from throughout the world, these volumes, designed by Chris Middleton (Nightrider Design), have an unparalleled pedigree. 

We firmly believe that this deluxe set will represent the most exhaustive and lavishly illustrated document to date about Elvis' recorded works. 

Legendary guitarist James Burton sums it up neatly: "These are the most beautiful books I have ever seen and the best researched."

'Ultimate Elvis – The Complete And Definitive Recording Sessions' will be available August 2014.



source: http://www.elvisinfonet.com

Vote the Memphis Zoo 10Best.com Readers' "Best U.S. Zoo"
APRIL 30, 2014

Time to vote again Elvis fans! What's a trip to Memphis and Elvis Presley's Graceland without a visit to the Memphis Zoo? Help our furry friends top the list for 10Best.com Readers' Choice "Best U.S. Zoo." Elvis fans can vote daily by visiting 10Best.com. 

One of the country's best zoos is indeed in Memphis. The Memphis Zoois open daily and features more than 3,500 animals representing 500 species. It's one of four U.S. zoos to exhibit giant pandas, and new exhibits feature polar bears, sea lions, large cats, primates and farm animals. 

Don't forget! Discounted tickets to this attraction are also available for purchase at Graceland. Time to plan your trip to Memphis and check out great savings and hotel packages here on Graceland.com.



source: http://www.graceland.com

Graceland and Elvis Presley Charitable Foundation Support Red Cross Efforts in Tupelo
APRIL 29, 2014

Elvis’ hometown of Tupelo was hit by a tornado on April 28th with a small northern portion of the town receiving significant storm damage. The American Red Cross has set up a command post and shelter at the downtown Bancorp South Arena as they assist those impacted by the tornado.

The Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum was not damaged in the storm, neither were any of the other Elvis-related landmarks that include Tupelo Hardware and Lyric Theater. Downtown Tupelo is fully functioning and welcoming visitors as they continue the clean-up efforts.

Following in the footsteps of Elvis who embraced a variety of charitable causes and always believed in helping those in need, the Elvis Presley Charitable Foundation is making a donation to the American Red Cross and Elvis fans can do the same by donating at this link.


source: http://www.graceland.com

Elvis Week Insiders Pre-Sale Going on Now
APRIL 28, 2014

Basic and Plus members can now log into ElvisInsiders.com to get links and details for the exclusive Elvis Week Insiders Pre-Sale. Elvis Week ticket pre-sale information can be found inside the members-only site in the NEWS section. We ask that you do not share or post any of this information outside of the members-only site, including the Insiders Forum.

Also, a very limited number of All-Access Passes are available for the Elvis Week Main Stage at Graceland during Elvis Week 2014. This large, air-conditioned tent is the site for many of the Elvis Week events that are listed on the schedule of events. The All-Access Pass grants you admission to all published EPE events listed on the schedule for the Elvis Week Main Stage (with the exception of private events). Doors for all-access pass holders will open 10 minutes prior to doors for individual ticket holders. These tickets will sell out fast!

Not an Elvis Insider? Find out how to join! Get exclusive access to rare photos, video, and artifacts at Graceland. Also, see the complete schedule of events, special guests and more by visiting ElvisWeek.com.


source: http://www.graceland.com

Two New Follow That Dream Releases Expected in May
APRIL 28, 2014

Celebrate Elvis' first motion picture "Love Me Tender" or get the limited-edition vinyl of "Stay Away, Joe." Elvis fans can check out the latest releases from the Follow That Dream Collection by visiting Elvis.com/FTD. The following two titles will be available in May of 2014.

"Love Me Tender" (2-CD)
This 2-disc 7” set celebrates Elvis’ first motion picture LOVE ME TENDER from 1956. Elvis first performed ‘Love Me Tender’ on the Ed Sullivan Show (September 9) and pre-sales reached over 1 million before its release on September 28. It features a 16-page booklet with great photos, movie trivia, memorabilia and full recording data. Disc 2 features the legendary live show from the Mississippi Alabama State Fair and Dairy Show held in Tupelo on September 26.

Learn More.


"Stay Away, Joe" (2-LP Vinyl)
For the first time since "Wild in the Country," neither an LP album nor an extended play single was planned for "Stay Away, Joe." Although released before "Speedway," this film and its soundtrack were made after the first of Elvis' last five films in the 1960s where musical numbers were kept to a minimum. The recording session took place at RCA Studio B in in Nashville, Tennessee, on October 1, 1967. This limited-edition vinyl set is pressed in 180 gram.

Learn More.


Stay tuned to Graceland.com for links to preorder at ShopElvis.com. Fans can also check out the complete Follow That Dream collection by visiting Elvis.com/FTD for the official database, which offers rare photos, exclusive audio samples and great deals on over 100 different Elvis CDs, books and LPs.


source: http://www.graceland.com

Here are the first product pictures of the upcoming blu rays from "Elvis: That's The Way It Is" (1970) and "Viva Las Vegas" (1963). 

Both Elvis Blu-rays will be available August 2014. 

"Elvis: That's the Way It Is" (Digibook) - With thousands of feet of materials including sequences added to capture with greater intimacy Elvis' performances and his creative process behind-the-scenes, the previously released 'Elvis: That’s The Way It Is - Special Edition' is now being made available as a Blu-ray two disc Special Edition Premium Digibook. 

The Blu-ray/DVD combo pack will feature 1080p video, a DTS-HD MA 5.1 soundtrack, and supplements will include: 2001 Special Edition and 1970 Theatrical Edition Cuts; Digibook Packaging; Patch It Up: The Restoration of Elvis: That's The Way It Is; and 12 Outtakes - song/nonmusical sequences.

'Viva Las Vegas' 50th Anniversary (Digibook) - In his highest grossing movie, Elvis shares the screen with Ann-Margret, easily creating the most electrifying teaming Elvis had on screen. He plays Lucky Jackson, a Grand Prix race driver working at a casino to raise cash for a new engine; she’s a hotel swimming instructor - and the romantic action revs up from their first meeting. George Sidney, who also directed Ann-Margret in 'Bye Bye Birdie,' combines the hormonal heat wave with fascinating sights of '1960s Las Vegas. Songs include the high-roller title track, the stars' duet on "The Lady Loves Me," her sultry "Appreciation" and The King's version of Ray Charles' "What'd I Say."

The Blu-ray will feature 1080p video, a 5.1 soundtrack, and supplements will include: Digibook packaging; Commentary by Steve Pond, rock journalist and author of "Elvis in Hollywood"; Featurette Kingdom: Elvis in Vegas; and Theatrical trailer.




source: http://www.elvismatters.com

Consul General of Japan Presents Memphis and Graceland with Somei Yoshino Cherry Trees
APRIL 25, 2014

In appreciation for the millions of dollars in relief following the east Japan earthquake, Motohiko Kato, Consul General of Japan in Nashville, along with a Japanese delegation, demonstrated their appreciation to Memphis by offering a gift of three Somei Yoshino Cherry Trees from Japan. In an Arbor Day celebration like no other, the trees were planted as a symbol of friendship between Japan and Memphis in a ceremony at Elvis Presley’s Graceland this morning. This tree planting is supported by the Japan Commerce Association of Washington, D.C., Inc. and JCAW Foundation, Inc. See photos of the special planting ceremony.

“As you may know, cherry blossoms have long been symbols in Japan of the fragility of life; life that we must at the same time cherish to the fullest,” said Kato. “Furthermore, spring is the season of a fresh start in Japan, and cherry blossoms give us joy and hope at each turning point of our lives.”

The trees represent Japan’s appreciation for Memphis relief efforts after the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011. Ties between Japan and Memphis run deep, and when disaster struck, many Memphis businesses, such as members of the Japanese Traders and Manufacturers Association of Memphis, combined efforts to provide millions of dollars in relief. 

Dignitaries at the event also included Mr. Masaya Koizumi (brother of former Prime Minister of Japan Junichiro Koizumi); music artist Ms. Reiko Yukawa; Shelby County, TN Mayor Mark Luttrell; Congressman Steve Cohen; City of Memphis Chief Administrative Officer George Little (representing Mayor A.C. Wharton); Tennessee State Senator Mark Norris; Memphis City Councilman Harold Collins; Consul General of Canada Stephen Brereton; and  Leigh Shockey, Chairman of the Board for the Greater Memphis Chamber.

As many as 3,000 trees were presented from Tokyo to Washington D.C. in 1912. Those trees have subsequently become symbols of the friendship felt between Japan and the United States, and like the blossoms that appear every spring this commitment is renewed year after year.

“Japan is the largest foreign investor in the state of Tennessee, with many of those companies located in Memphis,” said Ernest Strickland, director of economic development at the Greater Memphis Chamber. “We have been successful in creating an ecosystem that celebrates Japanese culture, education and business and planting these trees is another way to nourish and strengthen this relationship.”

Graceland was chosen as the destination for the trees because of its worldwide recognition and Elvis’ popularity among the Japanese leaders. 

“We are tremendously honored that Graceland was selected by the Japanese delegation and Memphis Chamber as the site for these cherry trees,” said Jack Soden, CEO of Elvis Presley Enterprises. “We look forward to caring for them on the lawn of Graceland and welcoming visitors from around the world who will see them thrive.” 

Kato added, “I hope that the cherry blossom trees at Graceland will become living reminders of our thanks and also symbolize the continued growth of the friendship between Memphis and Japan just like the cherry blossom trees in Washington D.C.”


source: http://www.graceland.com

Elvis Presley Fans of Nashville, is remembering Gladys Love Smith Presley on her April 25th Birthday. 

Gladys Love Smith Presley, Mother of Elvis Presley was born on April 25th, 1912 in Pontotoc County, Mississippi to her parents Robert Lee Smith and Octavia Luvenia "Doll" Mansell Smith. 

Elvis and Gladys had a very vital and unbreakable Mother and Son relationship. 

Gladys passed away August 14, 1958 at a Memphis, TN Hospital, and she is buried at Graceland alongside Elvis, Vernon, and Minnie Mae Presley in the Meditation Garden. 

Julian's Auction House, presents the ultimate entertainment memorabilia in todays auction world! Julian's currently has for auction one of Elvis Presley's "Concho" jumpsuits, which Elvis wore on stage during the filming of "Elvis: That's The Way It Is." There were two identical "Concho" jumpsuits created by Designer, Bill Belew. 

The jumpsuit is part of the "Music Icons, Legends, and Rebels 2014" auction. 

The auction will be held Saturday, May 17, 2014 at the Hard Rock New York in Times Square - 1501 Broadway. 

Notes from Elvis Presley Fans of Nashville

There are in fact jumpsuits where Elvis had two versions of the same suit created. The "Concho" had two identical versions. Other examples include and the "Chain" & "Aloha" jumpsuits. This "Concho" suit is up for auction at Julian's, and the other "Concho" jumpsuit is stored safely at Elvis Presley's Graceland in the Graceland Archives.

It is also interesting to note the letters of authenticity.  Both letters of authenticity are from people who are deceased. The first letter of authenticity is from the man who created Elvis' jumpsuits', Designer: Bill Belew, whom passed away January 7th, 2008. The second letter is from Elvis' former girlfriend, Sheila Ryan Caan, whom passed away September 18th, 2012. 

In 1966 this historic mid-century estate was leased to Elvis Presley where he and Priscilla spent their honeymoon after their May 1, 1967 wedding; Lisa Marie Presley was born nine months later. This iconic modernist estate was designed in four perfect circles, on three levels, incorporating glass and peanut brittle stonework for indoor-outdoor living. The home features four bedrooms and five baths. Nestled at the base of the San Jacinto Mountains, the honeymoon suite offers a panoramic view of the Santa Rosa Mountains and the Coachella Valley. The secluded grounds include a pool, stage, private garden, tennis court, and fruit orchard.

The Mid Century Modernism Classic Estate was built in 1960 by prominent Palm Springs developer Robert Alexander for his wife, Helene and has been restored to its 1960s splendor and features art deco design and furnishings throughout. In September 1962 Look Magazine featured the estate as a centerfold and called it “The House of Tomorrow” in an article entitled “The Way Out Way Of Life.” It portrayed the Alexanders and the Estate as the center of social activities in Palm Springs in the early 1960s. It also appears as a centerfold in “Palm Springs Weekend” by Hess and Danish.

Over its decades serving as a honeymoon hideaway for Elvis and Priscila Presley and an architectural and cultural fixture many movies have been filmed at the estate including “Elvis & Me” and “Elvis by the Presleys”.

This historic mid-century masterpiece is perfectly located minutes from Palm Springs International Airport and downtown.

source: http://thealtmanbrothers.com

Graceland Podcast Talks Elvis Week, Elvis in the Army and More
APRIL 24, 2014

In this week's Graceland Podcast, Elvis Presley Enterprises' Steven Gibbs and Amanda Pannell talk about the recently announced Elvis Week schedule and events happening here at Graceland. First we kick off the podcast with a recap of our exciting events at Elvis Week 2014, including the Candlelight Vigil and the new Elvis A Cappella events, in addition to many more fan-favorite events Plus, learn more about the upcoming releases fromWarner Bros. Home Entertainment with a world premiere taking place during Elvis Week on August 16. We also talk about Graceland lighting up in Memphis Grizzlies' blue and gold as the city of Memphis gets ready for the NBA Playoffs. Fans can hear a portion of the recently released Elvis in the Army archival news reel released by British Pathe and see what historic event happened this week in 1957. We wrap up this week's podcast with ourElvis sightings, including one from Fort Smith, Arkansas, where Elvis received his famous G.I. Army haircut.


source: http://www.graceland.com

"Nobody" is a Sideburned Cinema, Inc. short film written and directed by, William Bryan, and co-produced by, Tom Radovich. The film chronicles the story of an 18 year old, Elvis Presley, as a Senior at Humes High School, before he achieved world-wild stardom. Elvis was not an Athlete, he wore flashy clothing & he carried around a guitar, and he truly liked music class. "Nobody" features a detailed account of the 1953 Humes High School talent show which occurred April 9, 1953. Elvis reluctantly entered the talent show, and as fate would have it the audience loved Elvis at the talent show, and he captured first place at the 1953 Humes High School talent show. "Nobody" also highlights the very vital and unbreakable Mother and Son relationship between, Elvis and his Mother, Gladys Presley. In addition, "Nobody" details Elvis' relationship with his homeroom teacher, Miss. Mildred Scrivener. Scrivener was a strong authority figure, whom was in charge of the Humes High School talent show. 

"Nobody", was recently shot on location in Memphis, Tennessee at Humes High School and at Sun Studio, during a weekend in the first part of April 2014. "Nobody",  is now in Post-Production. While eager Elvis Presley fans wait for the highly anticipated release of "Nobody", William Bryan, has graciously shared several of the finished video film still frames. "Nobody" will officially premier at during the Summer of 2014! 

Elvis Presley - Elvis' Piano, Pool Table And Soda Fountain Up For Auction
by WENN | 23 April 2014

Elvis Presley's grand piano, pool table and soda fountain from his Holmby Hills estate in Los Angeles is set to hit the auction block next month (May 14th 2014) as actress Debbie Reynolds continues to sell off her memorabilia collection.

The three Elvis items have just been added to the upcoming Profiles in History Debbie Reynolds Auction, which is set for 17 and 18 May (14) at the Debbie Reynolds Dance Studio in North Hollywood, California.

Presley's Baldwin piano is expected to be one of the sale's highlights, and should fetch up to $15,000 (£9,375), according to the experts. His vintage carved wood pool table has a pre-sale estimate of $6,000 (£3,750) to $8,000 (£5,000), and bidding on the Anderson & Wagner, Inc. soda fountain will begin at $2,000 (£1,250).


source: http://www.contactmusic.com

Jack White – “Power Of My Love” (Elvis Presley Cover)
Apr 22nd '14 by Tom Breihan

For Record Store Day this past weekend, Jack White attempted and completed a very Jack White-esque stunt: Recording, pressing, and releasing a new 7″ single in just over three hours, making it the world’s fastest single. 

For the occasion, he recorded a live version of “Lazaretto,” the title track from his forthcoming album. But since it wouldn't be a proper 7″ single without a B-side, he also recorded one of those. And that single, a fearsomely bluesy cover of Elvis Presley’s late-’60s Memphis soul-rocker “Power Of My Love,” has made its way to the internet. 

source: http://www.stereogum.com

British Pathe's 80 Years of Newsreels Includes Elvis' Army Interview in 1958
APRIL 23, 2014

British Pathe, a premier archive of the world's most famous newsreels, has now added their entire 80-year collection to Youtube and the king is topping the list. In a 1958 interview, the newsreel features archival footage of Elvis talking about life in the Unites States Army. Fans can watch this video (below) or visit British Pathe's YouTube page to see the entire collection of historic newsreels. 

According to WRCBTV.com, "A total of more than 85,000 films in all have been uploaded to YouTube, many of which were only available for a fee on the company's website. But now you can browse through them all, from 19th-century footage of the New York Fire Brigade to a 1958 interview with Elvis Presley."

The Youtube page is broken down into playlists featuring celebrity interviews, famous historic events, fantastic inventions, daredevils, weird newsreels and much more. 
Read more about Elvis' life and career by visiting our biography section on Graceland.com. Want to plan your own rock 'n' roll pilgrimage? Check out these great savings and hotel packages.


source: http://www.graceland.com

Graceland Goes Blue & Gold to Support the Memphis Grizzlies Playoff Run
APRIL 23, 2014

Elvis Presley’s Graceland is joining the city of Memphis by celebrating the Memphis Grizzlies and their success in reaching the 2014 NBA Playoffs. Elvis' famous mansion is now illuminated in the team’s signature colors of Beale Street Blue and Grizzlies Gold and will stay lit up throughout the team’s NBA Playoff run. 

Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley, the undisputed King of Rock ‘n’ Roll is a national historic landmark, visited by over 600,000 guests annually from around the world. Memphis is the place Elvis referred to as his "favorite place in the world." Many local landmarks are joining the support of the Grizzlies in unique ways throughout the post-season, while the Grizzlies will be all around the community as Grizz fever spreads in the Bluff City. 

Fans can purchase tickets to the Playoffs by visiting Ticketmaster.com. Also, be sure to check out great savings on your next trip to Graceland with our new specials and packages on Graceland.com.


source: http://www.graceland.com

Elvis Fact of The Day: Gates of Graceland Installed in 1957
APRIL 22, 2014

Here's a fun Elvis fact of the day!
Today in 1957, The iron gates with a special guitar motif, manufactured in Phoenix, Arizona, were delivered to Graceland by a local firm and installed. 

Over the years, millions have traveled to visit the home of Elvis Presley in Memphis, Tennessee. Fans from all walks of life, have stood at these very gates and signed the now-legendary Graceland Wall. Want to plan your rock 'n' roll pilgrimage to Graceland? Check out these great savings and hotel packages on Graceland.com.


source: http://www.graceland.com

Elvis Presley's Graceland Announces Plans for Elvis Week 2014
APRIL 22, 2014

Elvis Presley’s Graceland has announced an exciting preliminary lineup of events for Elvis Week 2014 to be held at Graceland in Memphis. Taking place August 9-17, Elvis Week is an annual, multi-day gathering of friends and fans from around the world celebrating Elvis’ life and legacy. It has become a pop-culture phenomenon and an annual pilgrimage for music lovers from around the world. Visit ElvisWeek.comfor detailed ticket and event information.

The cornerstone event, the Candlelight Vigil, will begin with the traditional opening ceremony on August 15, at 8:30 p.m. Central Time at Graceland’s front gates. Elvis music sets the tone of the evening as fans walk up the driveway to Meditation Garden. The event lasts throughout the night as thousands of participants gather on Elvis Presley Blvd. listening to music, remembering Elvis and enjoying the memorials that are created by fans along the street.

A first-ever event this year is Elvis A Cappella: A Tribute to the King, which will be presented at the Elvis Week Main Stage. Elvis goes a cappella for the first time in two different  60-minute Elvis shows, featuring some of the country’s top a cappella groups -  All-Night Yahtzee, the Vanderbilt Melodores, the Acoustikats, The James Madison University BluesTones and Briarcrest OneVoice - performing some of Elvis’ greatest hits, joined by Elvis on the big screen.  Each show will be presented twice.

The Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest returns for the eighth year with over 20 competitors from around the world, including winners from preliminary contests in the U.S., Brazil, the U.K., Canada and Australia. Elvis Tribute Artists (ETAs) will compete during the semifinal round of the contest at the historic Orpheum Theatre in downtown Memphis. The top 10 semifinalists will then move on to compete for the title of 2014 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist.

An exclusive screening of the world premiere of Warner Bros.’ newly-remastered version of "Elvis: That’s The Way It Is" – Special Edition will be held at the Orpheum Theatre. The Elvis concert documentary will be available for the first time on Blu-ray on August 12. Fans will be treated not only to the newly-remastered film, but will also get to experience an outtake performance or sequence never-before-seen on the big screen. In addition, the screening will feature an on-stage performance by Terry Blackwood and The Imperials and “Elvis: That’s The Way It Is” related artifacts on display in the lobby, direct from the Graceland Archives. 

The Memphis Boys Salute at the Elvis Week Main Stage will celebrate the 45th anniversary of Elvis’ acclaimed recording sessions at American Sound Studios – along with the legendary house band that not only backed Elvis, but many other stars over the years. This incredible Memphis Boys concert event with special guests Terry Mike Jeffrey and Scat Springs, will feature them performing some of their Elvis hits, as well as songs from the many other stars they have performed behind for over 45 years. 

Conversations on Elvis, one of the most popular Elvis Week events, returns this year to the Elvis Week Main Stage. Hosted by Tom Brown, Vice President of Original Productions for Turner Classic Movies (TCM), this event features Elvis’ friends, colleagues, co-stars, musicians and more sharing some of their favorite stories and memories of Elvis. 

The Official Elvis Insiders Event will feature special segments that highlight various aspects of Elvis’ life and career. Also hosted by Tom Brown, attendees will enjoy sneak peeks, behind-the-scenes looks, rarely-seen videos, feature segments filmed just for the event, special guests and much more. It will be a special “inside” look at both Elvis and his home, Graceland. Also, representatives from Sony and Warner Bros. will be part of a behind-the-scenes panel discussion to talk about the remastering of “Elvis: That’s The Way It Is.” 

The Elvis Presley Fan Club Presidents’ Event will focus on the work of fan clubs around the world. In addition, attendees will enjoy a guest speaker segment hosted by Elvis Radio DJ Argo. This year’s special guest will be Jimmy Snow, son of the country music legend Hank Snow. Prior to becoming an evangelist in 1958, Jimmy was in show business -- including radio, television and live concerts. He recorded on RCA for 7 years and worked closely with Elvis, with whom he became good friends. Jimmy will share his favorite stories of Elvis and sign autographs following the event. 

Other events scheduled during the week include additional special entertainment on the Elvis Week Main Stage, a Graceland Trivia Tour, the Annual Elvis Presley International 5K Run benefiting Livitup, Inc., an Elvis Gospel Celebration and more.

Elvis Week ticket packages as well as the individual event ticket presale begins April 28 for Basic and PLUS Insiders, with the public sale beginning May 1. 

Fans unable to join the celebration in Memphis will be able to participate online at ElvisWeek.com and the 2014 Elvis Week app (coming soon), plus live webcasts via Livestream, live coverage on Sirius XM’s Elvis Radio channel and more.


source: http://www.graceland.com

Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Announces Two New Releases For Elvis Week 2014
APRIL 22, 2014

To celebrate Elvis Week, Warner Bros. Home Entertainment will release two of the king's fan-favorites on August 12 as Premium Blu-ray™ Digibooks. 

"Elvis: That’s The Way It Is - Two Disc Special Edition," which was re-edited and remixed for its acclaimed release in 2000, will now debut on Blu-ray™ as a Premium Digibook, newly remastered, and with DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 soundtrack. In celebration of its 50th anniversary, "Viva Las Vegas" will also be offered as a Premium Blu-ray Digibook. These Premium Digibooks include rare behind-the-scene photos and are available for $27.98 each (SRP). 

This year’s Elvis Week will be held from August 9 - August 17 in Memphis at Elvis Presley’s Graceland. As part of the festivities, the historic Orpheum Theatre in downtown Memphis will host the world premiere screening of Warner Bros.’ newly-remastered "Elvis: That’s The Way It Is." Fans in town for Elvis Week will also be treated not only to the newly-remastered film, but will also get to experience an outtake performance or sequence never-before-seen on the big screen, along with some special on-stage surprises still to be announced. 

Presale tickets for Basic and PLUS Insiders begins April 28 and tickets will be available for the general public on May 1, via Ticketmaster.com, by calling Ticketmaster at 800-745-3000, at any Ticketmaster outlet or at the Orpheum box office. 

For more information on this or other Elvis Week events, visit ElvisWeek.com.

NEW ELVIS TITLES"Elvis: That’s the Way It Is" - Two Disc Special Edition Premium Digibook With thousands of feet of materials including sequences added to capture with greater intimacy Elvis' performances and his creative process behind-the-scenes, the previously released Elvis: That’s The Way It Is - Special Edition is now being made available as a Blu-ray™ two disc Special Edition Premium Digibook. Denis Sanders (Shock Treatment) directed this “rockumentary.” Academy Award® nominated  Lucien Ballard (The Wild Bunch) was the cinematographer, following the show’s development from rehearsal to stage. 

Disc 1 (DVD) 2001 Special Edition and Special Features:
- Patch It Up: The Restoration of Elvis: That's The Way It Is
- 12 Outtakes - song/nonmusical sequences  
- 1970 Original Theatrical Version

Disc 2 (BD) 1970 Original Theatrical Version and Special Features:
- 12 Outtakes - song/nonmusical sequences "Viva Las Vegas" 50th Anniversary Premium Digibook. 

In his highest grossing movie, Elvis shares the screen with Ann-Margret, easily creating the most electrifying teaming Elvis had on screen. He plays Lucky Jackson, a Grand Prix race driver working at a casino to raise cash for a new engine; she’s a hotel swimming instructor - and the romantic action revs up from their first meeting. George Sidney, who also directed Ann-Margret in Bye Bye Birdie, combines the hormonal heat wave with fascinating sights of ’60s Las Vegas. David Winters (West Side Story) choreographed the 10 musical song-and-dance scenes which also featured his dancers. Songs include the high-roller title track, the stars’ duet on “The Lady Loves Me,” her sultry “Appreciation” and The King’s version of Ray Charles’ “What’d I Say.” The soundtrack is presented in Dolby Digital 5.1 stereo.

Special Features:- Commentary by Steve Pond, rock journalist and author of “Elvis in Hollywood”
- Featurette Kingdom: Elvis in Vegas
- Theatrical trailer

Both releases will be available August 12, 2014. 

Learn more about Elvis Week 2014's schedule of events, specials guests and more by visiting ElvisWeek.com.


source: http://www.graceland.com