Elvis Presley Fans of Nashville would like to wish
Ben Keough a very Happy 21st Birthday!!

Benjamin Storm Keough, born October 21, 1992 is the son of Elvis Presley's Daughter, Lisa Marie Presley and Musician Danny Keough.

Elvis Presley fans have recently noticed artificial flowers, tributes, mementos, and other items left at Elvis' grave have been removed shortly after placement.

Gilvania Ferreira of the "Viva Elvis Brasil Fan Club" contacted Elvis Presley's Graceland, and she received the following email response from Steven Gibbs:

"When it comes to the meditation garden there have been a few procedure changes. We will continue to allow fans and guests to leave items but they are removed daily and those appropriate, kept for the archives. Fresh flowers will be left until they need to be removed and silk flowers will remain for a few days before being removed. These procedures were put in place at the wishes of the Presley family in order to keep this area with a more manicured look. We appreciate you checking with us and thank you for your love and admiration of Elvis Presley."


Thank you very much Gilvania, for obtaining an answer from Graceland, and we appreciate your permission to share it with Elvis fans worldwide!

Roland Janes, age 80 - Sun Records Guitarist and Memphis Legend passed away Friday, October 18th 2013 at the Methodist University Hospital. Mr. Janes was receiving treatment following a recent heart attack. 

Janes met Jack Clement who brought him to Sam Phillips at Sun Records. Janes became the house guitarist at Sun in 1956, a position he would hold for seven years.  His guitar can be heard on the majority of tracks cut by Jerry Lee Lewis, including Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On and High School Confidential, along with other Sun artists like Charlie Rich and Sonny Burgess. While still at Sun, Janes founded his own label, Rita Records, where he had a hit with Harold Dorman's original version of his song Mountain of Love.  Janes also opened Sonic Studios where he specialized in recording artists for small, independent labels.  In 1977 he became the producer and engineer at The Sounds of Memphis Recording Studio. In 1982, he returned to Sun with Sam Phillips. While most of his work was now behind the scenes, he did pull out the guitar on occasion for sessions, including one for Mudhoney's 1998 album Tomorrow Hit Today.

Janes was recently elected to the Memphis Music Hall of Fame and was scheduled to receive a Brass Note on Beale Street.

Janes is survived by his wife of 54 years, Betty, two sons, a daughter, eight grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

The hits Roland Janes played on numbered in the dozens; the records he produced totaled in the hundreds; the sessions he engineered ran into the thousands. But there is no real way to tally, measure or quantify the tremendous impact Roland Janes had on Memphis music, or the lives of those he touched in his 80 years.



article source: http://www.commercialappeal.com & http://www.vintagevinylnews.com

Friday, October 18th 2013
FOX17

Nashville, TN -- A new art exhibit at the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum not only showcases 50 years of Elvis, but also the artist. Betty Harper has drawn The King more than anyone else in the world! She actually started drawing him as a child. The first Elvis I drew was an outline. It was his chin, hairline going up and down and that pom.

Some of those first drawings are where the progressive art exhibit - "50 Years with Elvis" begins. The journey continues decades later - to the first Elvis drawing she was ever paid for.

Then around the corner is a picture of her Elvis billboard, which was displayed in Memphis to commemorate the one year anniversary of his death. Ironically the images were drawn, the day died. I got up at 4am and had an idea. I went to work and by the afternoon I had completed two Elvis images. I looked at it and thought it was okay and went to lay down. Then at 3:15 that afternoon, they came in and said we have news from Memphis. I knew what they were gonna say and looked over at that picture and when I did I just saw a new image of Elvis. I didnt even finish listening to the news. I got up and finished the drawing. That is the third image you see on the billboard.

A couple dozen drawings later, you come to today. Where Harper's art is much different than it was 50 years go. The computer has changed things. I can draw them, scan them in and then add to the pictures. Harper has drawn roughly 10-thousand images of Elvis. This exhibit only gives you a small taste of her work. From a child that was intrigued by The King, to an Elvis super fan and eventually the official artist for Elvis Presley Enterprises. These images make it easy to see why Betty Harper is known for capturing the spirit of Elvis like no one else can.

The art exhibit will be on display all the way till end of 2013 and it's totally free. The Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum is inside the Municipal Auditorium in Downtown Nashville. MusiciansHallOfFame.com


source: http://www.fox17.com - Fox17 Nashville

The Scottish government is planning to purchase The Prestwick Airport, best known as the only place Elvis Presley officially ever stood on British soil.

The purchase would be to prevent the closure of the unprofitable terminal located 30 miles southwest of Glasgow. The sale price has yet to be finalized.

The date was March 3rd, 1960. The place was Prestwick Airport in Scotland. Elvis was finishing his American army national service and stopped over in Ayrshire for a precious two hours. In those days, Prestwick was home for the 1631 USAF unit. Despite a massive security clampdown, the news leaked out that a mystery V.I.P. was flying in... and when Sgt. Presley stepped off the plane, some 200 local fans rushed to greet him. And, without the restraining influence of aides and his personal manager, 'Colonel' Tom Parker, the star felt relaxed enough to mix with them.

Who knows, 53 years later it may become Elvis Presley Airport? 


source: http://www.elvismatters.com - Elvis Matters

Rubberneckin' Podcast Talks Christmas at Elvis Presley's Graceland October 18, 2013

Download Episode #145 of the Rubberneckin' Podcast where Elvis Presley Enterprises Kevin Kern and Alicia Dean talk about Christmas at Graceland! First, we tell fans how they can upload photos for FREE and snag one of the first-ever Elvis Christmas Fan Mosaics just in time for the holidays! With over 4,000 submissions so far, this mosaic could end up being one of the biggest to date and celebrates the king's favorite time of year! Fans can also learn more about the 2013 Lighting Ceremony and Christmas here at Graceland.  Rumor has it that there may be a 100% chance of snow and rockin' Santa could be making an appearance! Give like the king and join thousands of Elvis fans who contribute annually to the Graceland Poinsettia Campaign benefiting the Elvis Presley Charitable Foundation. We also send a special congratulations to Legends' Elvis Home Bedding and thank all of our Elvis fans who helped them advance to the finals in Walmart's "Get On The Shelf Contest." Get a peek at cheap flights to Memphis just in time for the holidays and why Chicago Magazine is calling it a "game changer." Plus, we wrap up with this week's Elvis sightings including one from Miley Cyrus and how Elvis' music impacted her life growing up. Be sure to follow Elvis on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube for the latest in Elvis and Graceland news!

Visit the Rubberneckin' Podcast page to listen to the new podcast and subscribe to future podcasts. If downloading new podcasts from iTunes, please allow 48 hours from the day of release for the podcast to show up.


source: http://www.elvis.com - Graceland/Elvis Presley Enterprises

So what’s the deal with this house trailer?

This was Elvis’ trailer at the Circle G Ranch. After buying the ranch, he arranged for a total of 9 trailers to be placed and set up for his friends and family to live at the ranch. He initially ordered the trailers from two different dealerships, Poole Trailer Sales in West Memphis and Green Acres Mobile Homes, just down the road from Graceland. The trailers were financed through the Westinghouse Credit Corporation and were financed in each person’s name that was going to reside in that trailer. Contrary to popular belief, Elvis did not buy these trailers, nor did he finance them. Elvis paid the down payment for each trailer, but each person was expected to make the monthly payments and the finance agreement was in their name. In all, there were 9 trailers, one each for Elvis, Minnie Mae (his grandmother), Mike McGregor, Red West, Jerry Schilling, Larry Geller, Ray Sitton, Billy Smith, and Richard Davis. Ultimately, Elvis ended up paying off the trailers.

Elvis’ trailer was a 1967 Melody home, serial number 11704 and was purchased from Poole Trailer Sales on February 20, 1967. His home was 60 feet long by 12 feet wide; white with red trim; had 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. It was gas heated; had aluminum siding, a 3 ton central air conditioning unit and had a stacked washer and dryer. He had all the comforts of an intimate home environment. The original purchase price was $8,132.50 and Elvis made a $3,937.14 down payment. He actually financed $6,373.80 which included $520 for insurance; $284.64 for Mississippi sales tax; and $1,373.80 interest. The final total for the home including his down payment was $10,310.94. His payment plan was $106.23 per month starting April 3, 1967 for 60 months (5 years).

One would assume that Elvis’ trailer would be the most expensive. It was not. There were several that were a bit more expensive. One was Minnie Mae’s trailer which was a 1967 Delta, green in color and the same size as Elvis’. He spared no expense on his grandmother’s trailer and hers was located next to Elvis. At least one of the house trailers was “used”. It was a 1958 Hicks home, 48 feet long and 10 feet wide. This home was not purchased until May 25, 1967 and payments were only $57.46.


Do you want to know more about Elvis’ time at the Circle G? Then like our page and visit our website at www.circlegfoundation.co.uk

Circle G Ranch - Where the King became a Cowboy.

ELVIS PRESLEY ENTERPRISES GEARS UP FOR WORLD WIDE CELEBRATION OF 60 YEARS OF ELVIS AND ROCK‘N’ROLL

New Licensees to Debut Elvis Products for Milestone Anniversary Year

MEMPHIS, TN–October 15, 2013 –Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. (EPE) is preparing for the global celebration of the birth of Rock ‘n’ Roll in 2014, and is gearing up for a full year of celebration with new and existing licensees.

On July 5, 1954, Elvis walked into Sun Studio in Memphis and recorded a sped up version of Arthur Crudup’s “That’s All Right.” Memphis DJ Dewey Phillips first played the song July 8, 1954 on WHBQ radio,the switchboard lit up, and the song was repeated fourteen times in a row during the “Red HOT and Blue” broadcast due to public demand. Rock ‘n’ Roll was born and music changed forever.

As thousands of fans gathered in Memphis for Elvis Week this past August, EPE debuted artwork for a yearlong celebration in 2014 to commemorate 60 years of Elvis and what many music historians consider to be the birth of the rock ‘n’ roll music movement.

Elvis not only was a pioneer in the world of music, but also in the licensing industry from the first day he stepped on stage as one of the first commercialized celebrity brands. EPE continues his legacy in the same manner today with quality merchandise. Now, with over 200 licensees worldwide, EPE works diligently with dynamic, creative and respected companies in a wide variety of licensing categories, such as Kurt S. Adler, American Greetings, Opening Ceremony, Rubie’s Costumes,Bradford Exchange, HarleyDavidson, and SiriusXM Satellite Radio. EPE’s Licensing Division is charged with the responsibility of protecting and preserving the integrity of Elvis Presley, Graceland and other related properties through the pursuit of the right commercial opportunities that fit with the company’s financial strategies,while maintaining desired branding and positioning for the Elvis brand.

Among the new licensees and products are:

MYBRANDEMAIL
MyBrandEmail will enable fans to engage with the Elvis brand in every email they send or receive by giving them the opportunity to purchase a personal email address with an Elvis themed URL. Elvis fans will be able to choose from customized e-mail addresses including ElvisPresleyFan.com, LoveElvis.net, GracelandVIP.com and AllShookUp.com, for an annual subscription fee. MyBrandEmail will debut its Elvis offering during the fourth quarter of this year.

WHITE COFFEE COMPANY
White Coffee Company was established in 1939 and is a third generation family owned coffee manufacturer with extensive expertise with gourmet and flavored coffee development and marketing with regional and national distribution across multiple channels (including grocery, mass retail, catalog, and specialty stores). White Coffee currently produces Kahlua branded Coffee, Emeril’s, Hell’s Kitchen, Entenmann’s, and Castle.The Elvis themed coffee will utilize vibrant colors and capitalize on "major Elvis milestones" to offer a fun and enjoyable product line. This rockin’ line of coffee will launch at the Fancy Food show in January and will be available via mass merchants and warehouse clubs.

WILLIAMS INTERACTIVE LLC PREMIUM iGAMING
Williams Interactive LLCis a global provider of turnkey solutions to the iGaming industry, from free-play marketing platforms like the white-label Play4Fun Network™,where real-money wagering is not yet allowed,to providing casinos integrated with the Company’s Remote Game Server with access to an unrivaled content portfolio of world-famous casino games in legalized real-money wagering jurisdictions.

ELVIS: THE KING Lives™, the launching theme under the iconic brand from Williams Interactive,represents the first online casino game theme powered by the player-favorite Double Money Burst™ game engine. Filled with iconic Elvis music, the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll is brought to life online like never before,with six ways to trigger the bonus and oversized reel symbols in the free-spin feature.Launch of the online interactive game is scheduled forNovember2013on some of the most popular gaming sites across Europe.

ZIPPO HOLIDAY THEMED LIGHTERS
Elvis loved the holidays and Zippo is partnering with EPE to release a limited edition,consecutively numbered,collectible lighter that pays tribute to the King’s spirit for the season. The coveted collectible lighters will be available starting October 23, 2013.

ROCK N ROLL IMPORTS Rock N Roll
Tequila has an exclusive celebrity affiliation with EPE for a high-quality, premium tequila product bottled in a unique guitar shaped bottle.It is rolling out nationally, and is currently available at stores throughout the U.S. including California, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Tennessee.

MIMOBOT®
At the 2013 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Mimoco, creator of the MIMOBOT® brand of designer USB flash drives,unveiled their first music-inspired collaboration and added it to its Legends of MIMOBOT collection. The ELVIS X MIMOBOT release features two design variants, both available with up to 128GB of data storage and blazing-fast USB3.0 speeds. The line comes preloaded with bonus Elvis Presley Mimory™ content, including archival Elvis interviews, photographs, and more. The ELVIS X MIMOBOT Series is now available online at www.Mimoco.comand at select specialty outposts around the world.

OPENING CEREMONY
The men’s & women’s collection of the popular fashion house Opening Ceremony introduces a new program dedicated to Elvis as the iconic Las Vegas fixture. With the support of EPE, the collection features a selection of archival photographs, song titles such as “Heartbreak Hotel” and “Love Me Tender,” lettering from the singer’s record sleeves, and crystal details in the style of Elvis’ legendary “Taking Care of Business” ring. These celebrated moments of the king are realized on an array of dress shirts, tee-shirts, sweatshirts, and denim jackets. As a nod to the Elvis classic song, several Opening Ceremony men’s footwear styles are offered in blue suede.

LEGENDS HOME BEDDING
Legends Home Bedding, a Hollywood, California based home bedding manufacturer,introduced The Elvis Presley Home Bedding Collection providing Elvis fans a new and elegant way to dress up their home with beautifully crafted home bedding. The collection is not only inspired by, but also bears the likeness of Elvis. The Elvis Home Bedding Collection was recently selected as a top five winner in Walmart's "Get On The Shelf"online voting contest,beating out over 5,000 other entrants, and will now be available for purchase on Walmart.com.

FATHEAD®
Fathead®is the industry leader of officially licensed sports and entertainment decals and more. The Elvis Presley®Fathead Collection consists of seven REAL.BIG. wall decals, featuring three life-size cut-outs and four 6ft x 4ft murals. The REAL.BIGdie-cuts include:Elvis in the gold lamé suit from the cover of 50,000,000 Elvis Fans Can't Be Wrong: Elvis' Gold Records -Volume 2,Elvis captured in a dynamic moment from the motion picture Jailhouse Rock,and Elvis in the iconic white "American Eagle" jumpsuit he wore during the Aloha from Hawaii concert on January 14, 1973. Each of these large main images of Elvis comes with six to eight additional decals of more photos, Elvis silhouettes and memorable symbols including Elvis’ guitar and the gates of Graceland. The Elvis Presley Fathead Collection is available exclusively at www.Fathead.com.

BINGOBLITZ.COM/ELVIS
Caesars Interactive Entertainment (CIE) and its Playtika social games division launched its first exclusive Elvis bingo room, "Elvis Backstage," on Buffalo Studios’ BINGO Blitz on Facebook, mobile, and table tsthis past August.Since its introduction, 215 million Bingo Rounds have been played, 675 million bingo cards have daubed and 6.3 million bingos have been won,with 4.6 million Elvis Backstage Bingo Collection items earned.The Elvis room is the most successful Bingo room in the game's history.

CELEBRATING 60TH YEARS OF ROCK ‘n’ ROLL
On January 8th, fans from around the world will gather at Graceland to celebrate the birth of the undisputed King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. A special exhibition will open at Graceland on March 3, 2014 showcasing Elvis’ impact on music and popular culture over the past 60 years and chronicling the birth of Rock ‘n’ Roll. The vaults of the Graceland Archives have been opened to help develop this unique exhibit, which will be included as part of the Graceland VIP Tour. The site of Elvis’ first professional recording session, Sun Studio, will be the site of a global celebration on July 5th,as Memphis and the world mark the birth of Rock ‘n’ Roll with Elvis’ recording of “That’s All Right.” Additional details for festivities planned at the famed Memphis recording studio will be announced at a later date.

The ‘ELVIS PRESLEY –ON STAGE’ music experience will kick off a 29date tour of Europe,starting in April through the end of May, taking the 60th Anniversary celebration on the road to Ireland, the United Kingdom, Holland and France. Using the latest technology, Elvis performs via state-of-the art video screens singing lead vocals backed by a live band, singers and an orchestra. Together, this multi-media creation puts the audience inside an Elvis Presley concert presented exactly like one of his classic live performances in a Las Vegas showroom. The contemporary staging and overall production create the illusion that Elvis is on stage for his finest concert performances. The concert tour schedule is available here, with tickets now on sale.

On Stage Touring, LLC, in association with EPE just kicked off the fourth annual touring season of the acclaimed theatrical attraction ELVIS LIVES® “THE ULTIMATE ELVIS TRIBUTE ARTIST EVENT”after a highly successful 2012/2013 touring season that performed for over 100,000 fans in 65 cities across North America. In addition to dates this fall, the production will embark on a schedule that will visit dozens of cities beginning in early January for the first half of 2014. It will be presented in many new cities across the United States as well as returning to several fan favorite markets for the second and third time.

Companies wishing to become an official licensee of Elvis themed products can contact the EPE licensing team to explore a mutually beneficial merchandising program. A representative from EPE’s licensing team will be at Brand Licensing Europe 2013, the definitive event for the European licensing industry, October15-17at Olympia, London in Booth F100.

To learn more about how to become a licensee, call 800-238-2000 or visit www.elvis.com/licensing.

About Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc.
Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. (EPE)is based in Memphis, with additional offices in Los Angeles.In addition to Graceland and its related attractions in Memphis, including the Heartbreak Hotel, EPE is aggressively involved in a worldwide licensing program, merchandising, music publishing, and television, film, video and Internet projects.

For more information on EPE and Graceland, visit www.elvis.com.



source: http://www.elvis.com - Graceland/Elvis Presley Enterprises

Fan Mosaics and Elvis Presley Enterprises Invite Fans to Celebrate Christmas with the King


Official Photo Mosaic Composed of Fan Photos Will Hang as Mural in Graceland, Be for Sale as Print

Northfield, Ohio—October 14, 2013—Elvis Presley fans have the unique opportunity to spend Christmas with the King, thanks to Fan Mosaics and Elvis Presley Enterprises. The Elvis Christmas Fan Mosaic will use thousands of fan-submitted photos—of themselves or any Elvis fan—to rebuild a classic image of Elvis at Christmastime.

The mosaic will be unveiled as a mural at the 2013 Graceland Lighting Ceremony on November 22, which kicks off the holiday season in grand Elvis style. It will also be available for purchase from www.fanmosaics.comas a high-quality 24 in. x 30 in. print.

“We’re thrilled to join Elvis Presley Enterprises and Elvis fans in celebrating the holiday season,” says Rob Hixenbaugh, Fan Mosaics’ director of fan & brand development. “We’ve created other fabulous Elvis Fan Mosaics, but this will be the most spirited one yet.”

Emblazoned with Elvis’ famous signature, the Elvis Christmas Fan Mosaic will make the perfect gift for every Elvis fan. Submitting a photo is free at www.fanmosaics.com/elvischristmas; the site closes for uploads on November 8.

About Fan Mosaics
Northfield, Ohio-based Fan Mosaics, LLC, is the bridge that connects fans and stars. The company’s officially licensed celebrity photo mosaics—composed entirely of fan-submitted images—are a unique and lasting outlet for fans’ enthusiasm and loyalty. Entertainers in all industries choose Fan Mosaics to thank fans for their dedication, and charities partner with Fan Mosaics to raise funds for their worthwhile causes. Visit www.fanmosaics.comto view completed and current projects and to learn more about the Fan Mosaics creation process.

About Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc.
Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc., is based in Memphis, with additional offices in Los Angeles. In addition to Graceland and its related attractions in Memphis, including the Heartbreak Hotel, EPE is aggressively involved in a worldwide licensing program, merchandising, music publishing, and television, film, video and Internet projects. For more information on EPE and Graceland, visit elvis.com.



source: http://www.elvis.com - Graceland/Elvis Presley Enterprises

Upcoming Highlights on SiriusXM's Elvis Radio - Channel 19
October 16, 2013

Elvis fans can now check out this week's upcoming highlights on SiriusXM Satellite Radio.

Elvis Live In Concert: Minneapolis (10/17/76)
Elvis rocks middle America in October 1976 with a LIVE show in Minnesota!
On-Air Time: Friday, October 18 at 8:00 p.m. ET
Rebroadcasts: Sunday, October 20 at Midnight ET and 10:00 p.m. ET & Tuesday, October 22 at 6:00 a.m. ET 

Saturday Special - EP Recording Sessions | Players Remember
Doc Walker shares the incredible memories and studio stories from the musicians that played an important role in making the King's incredible records!  Doc has collected conversations with DJ Fontana, Donnie Sumner, James Burton, Ray Walker and the late John Wilkinson.
On-Air Time: Saturday, October 19 at Noon ET
Rebroadcasts: Tuesday, October 22 at 9:00 p.m. ET

Elvis Radio Soundtrack Saturday Night - "Girl Happy"
It's an Elvis beach party with Shelley Fabares, Mary Ann Mobley and Chris Noel as Bill Rock spotlights "Girl Happy" on Soundtrack Saturday Night!  Bill also shares YOUR Elvis Memories. Share your memories by calling 888-ELVIS-NOW (888-358-4766).
On-Air Time: Saturday, October 19 at 10:00 p.m. ET
Rebroadcasts: Tuesday, October 22 at 10:00 p.m. ET and Thursday, October 24 at 2:00 a.m. ET

Learn more about Elvis Radio on SiriusXM! Also, be sure to check out the "Graceland Beat" featuring the latest in Elvis news, every Thursday at 11:00 a.m. CT, plus listen to our weekly podcast online here at Elvis.com! Elvis fans can also catch the Graceland Beat on Fridays at 5:50 a.m. CT and Saturdays at 6:50 a.m. CT.



source: http://www.elvis.com - Graceland/Elvis Presley Enterprises

Elvis Presley's former Beverly Hills, California home located at 1174 Hillcrest Drive might not be demolished after all! The home was sold December 14, 2012 to Hard Rock Cafe Founder, Peter Morton for $9,800,000

A demolition notice was originally posted on the entry gates June 2013. The noticed caused major upset in the Elvis Presley fan community.

OVER THE TOP the Architectural History of Trousdale Estates, Beverly Hills shared this update on their Facebook page:
"A little birdy is telling us that Peter Morton is NOT demolishing and replacing the former Elvis Presley house. Seems the Hard Rock Cafe/Hotel empire founder *may* have altered his plans to raze the old house to raise a new one -- instead spiffing it up to the hilt and offering the glammy Hollywood Regency hideaway, improved, with ALL today's comforts. That's what we call a win/win/WIN!"

Elvis Presley Fans of Nashville, sure hopes the source of "the little birdy" is correct. We would absolutely hate for Elvis' former home to be destroyed; due to the greed of a millionaire who could construct a mansion anywhere!

In 1967 for $400,000 Elvis purchased the stunning French Regency home with spectacular panoramic city to ocean views. The 5,367 sq ft home at 1174 Hillcrest Drive was constructed in 1958 by architect Rex Lotery. The home has four bedrooms and five bathrooms. Elvis, Priscilla, and Lisa Marie enjoyed happy times at Hillcrest from 1968 to 1972.


source: https://www.facebook.com/pages/OVER-THE-TOP-the-Architectural-History-of-Trousdale-Estates-Beverly-Hills/325296184579

Elvis Presley Movie In the Works, Lisa Marie Presley Confirms
Published: October 15, 2013| By Lauren Weigle

source: TMZ.com

Margaret Ann Williams, former member of The Sweet Inspirations passed away October 1st. Ann worked with Elvis Presley and Aretha Franklin. Ann's health has not been good for several years.

In late 1969, Ann Williams replaced Cissy Houston, after Cissy quit The Sweet Inspirations.

The first season that Ann Williams worked with Elvis was the Las Vegas January/February 1970 season. She also appeared in the 1970 Elvis documentary 'That’s the Way It Is' but for still unknown reasons left the group during the summer 1971 engagement at Lake Tahoe.

Besides Elvis, she sang extensively with Aretha Franklin, who called her “Taurus.”

In 2002 she joined The Sweets on stage at the "Elvis Concert" at the Memphis Pyramid.

Thanks to FECC's whatsupdoc for the photo of Elvis and Ann Williams.


article source: http://www.elvisinfonet.com - Elvis Information Network

After four years of collecting the letters of the famous and the brilliant, for his on-line blog Shaun Usher decided to sit down and write one of his own.

'Letters of Note' contains 125 examples that range from a clay tablet in the 14th century BC to almost the present day. The authors usually need little introduction – Mick Jagger, Ernest Hemingway, Katharine Hepburn and Leonardo da Vinci among them – but the sentiments they express might cause you to look at them in a different way.

One of the featured letters of importance from the last three thousand years is Elvis Presley's letter to USA President Richard Nixon, 1970!

Elvis was an avid collector of police badges – and so keen to get his hands on one from the Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs that he took a flight to the White House to hand deliver this letter.

"Dear Mr President, First, I would like to introduce myself. I am Elvis Presley and admire you and have great respect for your office. I talked to vice-president Agnew in Palm Springs three weeks ago and expressed my concerns for our country. The drug culture, the hippie elements, the SDS, Black Panthers, etc do not consider me as their enemy or as they call it, the establishment. I call it America and I love it. Sir, I can and will be of any service that I can to help the country out. I have no concerns or motives other than helping the country out...."


CLICK HERE to Guardian UK to see Elvis' original letter in great detail and to find out more about the book!


source: http://www.elvisinfonet.com - Elvis Information Network

A coat once belonging to Elvis Presley was sold for 40,000 $US. The owner wanted 75,000 for it, but finally settled for almost half. The coat was supposedly given by Elvis to JD Sumner.

To check the authenticity, the tv director had Jimmy Velvet flown in, who immediately looked for the IC Costumes Label.

Click the following link , and scroll to the 6 minute mark to watch the Elvis segment.

YouTube!

source: http://www.elvismatters.com - Elvis Matters

Legacy.com would like to test you knowledge regarding Elvis Presley's leading ladies in his films.

There's no denying that Elvis was popular with women, on screen and off. Throughout his film career he shared the spotlight, and made beautiful music, with some amazing women.

Can you match the screen siren to the movie in which she appeared?

Click here to take the quiz!

Follow the 2013 Memphis Music Hall of Fame Itinerary
October 15, 2013

Traveling to Memphis and want to discover the sights and sounds of the place where music legends are born? TNVacation.com has a complete itinerary, including a complete How-To-Guide for exploring Memphis!

Elvis' favorite gospel group, The Blackwood Brothers, will be inducted into the Memphis Music Hall of Fame on November 7. Elvis fans can follow the entire induction class's footsteps with stops at Sun Studio, Beale Street, Graceland and the Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

"Graceland serves as a reminder of what really moved Elvis: gospel music - the genre accounts for the king’s only GRAMMY wins, and to hear Lisa Marie Presley share memories of her father singing hymns is seriously sweet. Elvis loved gospel so much, in fact, he flew 2013 inductees The Blackwood Brothers from a tour date to sing at his mother’s funeral."

See the complete itinerary for exploring Memphis by visiting TNVacation.com. Ready to plan the ultimate rock 'n' roll pilgrimage to Memphis? Check out great savings and package deals online for visiting Graceland!


source: http://www.elvis.com - Graceland/Elvis Presley Enterprises

Nominate the Rubberneckin' Podcast for the "People's Choice Award" on PodcastAwards.com
October 14, 2013

Every week, members of the Elvis Presley Enterprises family share the latest Elvis news happening around the world and here at Graceland! We feature interviews with famous guests, sing Elvis tunes and give shout outs to our Elvis fans! With only two days left for nominations, join in on the fun and nominate our Rubberneckin' Podcast for the "People's Choice Award" on PodcastAwards.com.

Here's how it works:

• Go to this link: http://podcastawards.com. 
• Nominate our Rubberneckin' Podcast for the "People’s Choice Award" in the top left of the entry form.
• Enter “Elvis Presley Rubberneckin’ Podcast” and URL: http://www.elvis.com/news/follow-elvis/weekly-podcast/default.aspx. 
• Fill out your name and e-mail at the bottom and submit by October 15th.

You get to submit the nomination form "ONE" time only! This marks the 9th Annual Podcast Awards and Elvis fans learn more about this honor by visiting PodcastAwards.com.


source: http://www.elvis.com - Graceland/Elvis Presley Enterprises

Chicago Magazine Says "New Direct Flights Make Memphis Much More Attractive"
October 15, 2013

Home to Elvis Presley's Graceland, the newly-renovated Overton Square and the Birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll, Memphis is now the place to travel with new flights from Chicago on Southwest Airlines! According to an article on ChicagoMag.com, "service to Memphis may prove to be a game changer."

Chicago Magazine talks about all of the popular attractions in Memphis, including stops at Beale Street and Sun Studio, but also looks at the emerging areas of Memphis where traveler's can discover the local flavor of the Bluff City.

"If you go now, there’s always Beale Street and Sun Studio, but at the end of the month the Indie Memphis Film Festival (October 31 - November 3) takes place in Overton Square," writes Chicago Magazine's Nina Kokotas Hahn. "While visiting the entertainment district, settle in for a bite of relaxed Creole at chef Kelly English’s Second Line restaurant, opening this month. Stay downtown at the 110-room Madison Hotel, but don’t call it a night just yet. Make your way up to the Madison’s new late-night Twilight Terrace rooftop, opened earlier this year, where a Smoke on the Water—hickory smoke-infused rye whiskey and maraschino bitters—will go great with those Mississippi River views."

Read the entire article titled "New Direct Flights Make Memphis Much More Attractive" by visiting ChicagoMag.com. Ready to plan the ultimate rock 'n' roll pilgrimage to Memphis? Check out great savings and package deals online for visiting Graceland and book your flight from select markets, for as little as $89, by visiting Southwest.com!


source: http://www.elvis.com - Graceland/Elvis Presley Enterprises

Elvis Presley on 'A Very Special Christmas: Icon' 2013

Elvis Presley and the Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin are just two of 11 acts gracing the tracklist of "A Very Special Christmas: Icon," the latest in a long line of compilation discs benefiting the Special Olympics and in 2013 celebrates its 26th year.

Elvis and Aretha are joined by a flurry of artists on the album -- with certain inclusions representing classic hits in the Christmas genre, including Elvis Presley's "Blue Christmas," Wham!'s "Last Christmas" and John Lennon & Yoko Ono's "Happy Xmas (War is Over)." Other artists featured on the compilation include Sting, Carrie Underwood, Josh Groban, Rod Stewart, Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers, Sheryl Crow and Jon Bon Jovi.

Since its inception, the series has raised royalties of $116 million supporting Special Olympics programs - Out this week.


Click here to visit Amazon.com for more information! 


source: http://www.elvisinfonet.com - Elvis Information Network

Celebrate Christmas with the King and Upload Your Photo to the Elvis Christmas Fan Mosaic
October 11, 2013

Elvis fans have the unique opportunity to spend Christmas with the king with the first-ever Elvis Christmas Fan Mosaic. The new holiday-themed print will use thousands of fan-submitted photos to rebuild a classic image of Elvis during his favorite time of year. Submit your photo for FREE today by visiting FanMosaics.com/ElvisChristmas.

Emblazoned with Elvis’ famous signature, the Elvis Christmas Fan Mosaic will make the perfect gift for every Elvis fan. The site closes for photo uploads on November 8 and will be unveiled as a mural at the 2013 Graceland Lighting Ceremony on November 22, which kicks off the holiday season in grand Elvis-style. The limited-edition print will also be available for purchase from FanMosaics.com as a high-quality 24 x 30 inch print.

“We’re thrilled to join Elvis Presley Enterprises and Elvis fans in celebrating the holiday season,” says Rob Hixenbaugh, Fan Mosaics’ Director of Fan & Brand Development. “We’ve created other fabulous Elvis Fan Mosaics, but this will be the most spirited one yet.”

Fans can upload their photos to be included in the new holiday mosaic by visiting FanMosaics.com/ElvisChristmas.



source: http://www.elvis.com - Graceland/Elvis Presley Enterprises

'My life with Elvis: Linda Thompson
Suzanne Simonot   |  October 10th, 2013

ELVIS'S ex-girlfriend, American actress, lyricist and former beauty queen Linda Thompson, is proof truth can be stranger than fiction.

One of only two women to have lived with Presley -- the other was his ex-wife, Priscilla -- Thompson, 63, is accustomed to being defined by her relationships.

After living at Graceland as Presley's partner from 1972-1976, Thompson was married to Bruce Jenner, father of her two sons, from 1981 to 1984 before her second marriage to musician/composer David Foster, from 1991 to 2007.

Ironically, Thompson and then-boyfriend Presley were watching the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games on TV while Presley was in hospital when they saw Bruce Jenner cross the finish line to take gold in the decathlon.

"I said to Elvis, 'I'd like to marry that guy'," Thompson says.

"And Elvis said: 'Over my dead body'."

Thompson giggles.

"Crazy, hey?"

Thompson is in Australia this week for a series of shows with Elvis impersonator Mark Anthony, including one at Southport Sharks tomorrow, where she will greet fans and answers questions.

"For many years, I didn't do anything. I was sensitive not to exploit our relationship or capitalise in any way," she says.

"I was offered a lot of money to write a book right away, immediately after he passed away, which I found very unsavoury. I never took a penny."

"It was 33 years after he passed away before my brother (Presley's former bodyguard, Sam Thompson) talked me into going on a cruise a couple of years ago to meet and greet fans and answer questions."

"It was so amazing to me after so many years -- 35 -- that people were still so interested. Now, I almost feel an obligation to keep his good memory alive and meet the people who have been so loyal and faithful. No one can say I have exploited the relationship. Honestly, it meant more to me when he passed away knowing I was there for the right reasons."

"Elvis would have been very hurt by the way some people capitalised on him after his death. Everyone and his uncle has written a book about him but there were only two women who lived with him and that was Priscilla and me. You don't know someone until you live with them."

Thompson was 22 and the reigning Miss Tennessee Universe when she met Presley, then 35, in 1972, six months after he had separated from wife Priscilla.

Despite their age difference, she says they had much in common.

"We both grew up in Memphis, we had the same religious beliefs and family was very important to us," she says.

"I had to develop a sense of humour about life and dark occurrences and it was one of the things Elvis and I had in common. He grew up in abject poverty too. His family was poor and mine was really poor and we shared that respect and appreciation that we'd had to work to earn what we had gotten in life."

"He had a very wicked sense of humour but he also had a great deal of insecurity. I'd say 'you're a good man; you're Elvis Presley -- women love you and you're talented and rich' ... but he was always unsure of himself."

"I developed a resilience to criticism growing up, not that I'm impervious to it. I wanted to answer back but I think it's better things are left alone. I guess I did develop that as a child growing up and having to fend for myself and care for my parents growing up in less than stellar conditions."

Thompson says most fans want to know "was he a good guy".

"The final analysis is was he a good soul? Yes, he was a good one but he was also a flawed individual and a little self-destructive."

"He had a very kind heart and he loved people and animals."

Thompson and Jenner married in 1981, four years after Presley's death.

"We have two sons, Brody, 30, and Brandon, 32 -- or as I tell people, I have one son my age and one two years older," Thompson says, laughing.

Jenner, of course, is now one of the stars of reality TV series Keeping Up with the Kardashians after marrying family matriarch Kris.

"Bruce? I just saw him today," Thompson says.

"He dropped by the house. He and my older son went to race a car in Virginia last weekend.

While she won't be drawn on commenting directly on the Kardashians, Thompson says Elvis managed to avoid the style of media circus stars are often embroiled in today.

"Elvis was very reclusive. He loved his privacy and did very little press". It's a two-edged sword -- people seem to be more hungry now to be famous than ever before."

Like Kim and Kanye?

Thompson giggles.

Thompson's last trip to Australia was with then-husband Jenner to promote his role in the Village People feature film You Can't Stop the Music back in 1980.

"Australians are the nicest, most down-to-earth people," she says.

A bit like The King himself.



source: http://www.goldcoast.com.au

The Magic of Memphis
By Alice Azania Jarvis
October 2nd 2013


Click here to read the article!


source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk

Elvis' Birthplace makes Rolling Stone list
October 10, 2013
TUPELO, Miss. (WTVA/TUPELO CVB) --

The Elvis Presley Birthplace has been named one of Rolling Stone magazine’s Top 52 Rock ‘N Roll Landmarks in America.

“Tupelo is the cradle of rock ‘n roll, where Elvis was born and influenced by gospel music and the blues,” said Neal McCoy, Tupelo Convention & Visitors Bureau Executive Director. “He became the international superstar that he was, and still is today, as a result of his humble upbringing in Tupelo, Mississippi. You can’t really know Elvis until you understand where he came from.”

The Elvis Presley Birthplace features an array of exhibits detailing the King of Rock ‘N Roll’s first thirteen years. From the original shotgun shack where he was born, to the childhood church where Elvis first heard gospel music, a visit to the Birthplace both offers visitors a glimpse into a simpler time and puts the extravagance of Graceland into greater perspective.

“Visitors from around the world flock to the Elvis Presley Birthplace each year to see where it all began,” said Dick Guyton, Executive Director of the Elvis Presley Birthplace. “We offer visitors the authentic experience of how life was for Elvis during the thirteen years that he lived in Tupelo.”

Rolling Stone’s list, that includes other Elvis sites like Graceland and Sun Studio, features a litany of significant locations in the history of America’s music.


To see the entire list of America’s Rock ‘N Roll Landmarks, visit http://www.rollingstone.com/music/landmarks

For more information on the Elvis Presley Birthplace, visit www.elvispresleybirthplace.com



source: http://www.wtva.com - WTVA Tupelo