If I Can Dream

Sony Legacy Recordings will bring us a new collaboration between Elvis and The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra with the imminent "If I Can Dream" CD, scheduled for release on 31 October 2015.

Interestingly the lineup includes five songs from the 70s, eight from the 60s (amongst them a possible hidden gem - for the mainstream public, that is) and one 50s song. Elvis sang most of these on stage during his concert years, so I wonder if the live or studio versions will be used (where applicable). I suspect the latter.

At least it's a different concept, with a duet or more incorporated. Elvis' voice, the best ever, together with arguably the best ever orchestra - it just might turn out to be a pretty cool fusion. Hopefully Classical fans might love it, too. Let's wait and see, or rather, hear.

A single, If I Can Dream, b/w Bridge Over Troubled Water, will accompany the album. It seems as if Sony will back this release with some promotion. It all depends who/what else is released at the same time. If the album/single makes a splash, it can take Elvis to the charts again. If there is one country that can make it happen, it might be the UK. Those guys are so devoted when it gets to Elvis releases. 

Currently you can get a copy at Takelot. 

Elvis Before Graceland

Little is known about the time just after Elvis graduated till he rocked the world. Until now.

The years of 1952 through 1954 are critical in understanding Elvis, because they helped form the man, his dreams, and his direction in life. It is only natural to ask what life was for Elvis in these trialing years, and what the defining factors were that projected him down the path he took later.

James Tipler, Elvis' former boss at Crown Electric, was in the unique position to shed plenty of light on those years. Mr. Tipler experienced both the young and the older Elvis, and his record tells an untold story that answers many other questions about the latter Elvis. 

What kind of job did Elvis do while he was at Crown Electric? What was the quality of work he put in? Was he as good and disciplined there, as he turned out to be later in life, during gruesome concert schedules that required such a strong will? Why did he invest in his former employer’s business, even after he made it big? Why did he suddenly stop buying his concert clothing from Lansky's? Why did he choose to live in Memphis after achieving the success he had? What was the true reason why Elvis never performed outside the U.S.?

"Elvis Before Graceland" is advertised as a treasure trove of documents, photos, and events never released or told before, and a must-read for all who are interested in Elvis' earlier life. 

www.amazon.com

Scratch My Back

This little fella is a creature called a South American Coati. His name is Elvis, and the exotic little fur ball loves nothing more than some nap-time scratches. Watch as he demands all the back scratches and belly rubs his owner can give.

Source: Viralnova.com - Nicolle von Eberkopf

Elvis and Barbra

Barbra Streisand on singing Love Me Tender with Elvis: Our spirits were touching. Love Me Tender is one of the 12 extraordinary duets on Barbra's album Partners.

Keep Calm