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Elvis Presley’s Hometown Recordings, ‘Memphis,’ Out On 5 CD/2LP/Digital Formats

Aug 19, 2024

The first fully comprehensive collection of Elvis Presley’s hometown recordings arrives today, Friday, August 9th with ‘MEMPHIS’ (RCA Records / Legacy Recordings) – a 111-track box set spanning from his earliest sessions at Sun Studio (which celebrate their 70th anniversary 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 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.

The new ‘MEMPHIS’ collection will be celebrated at Elvis Week next week, including two special events at Graceland. On Tuesday, August 13th, Graceland Soundstage will host an “Elvis: Back in Memphis” concert – blending live performances with storytelling from the musicians and vocalists who were part of these legendary recording sessions. Confirmed participants include American Sound drummer Gene Chrisman and vocalist Donna (Rhodes) Morris; and Larry Strickland from the Jungle Room Sessions.

On Wednesday, August 14 at 2pm CT, Sony Music will host a special ‘MEMPHIS’ listening event and Q&A at Graceland’s Guest House Theater featuring broadcasting legend Tom Brown, MEMPHIS producer Ernst Jørgensen, Grammy award-winning record producer Matt Ross-Spang and Grammy award-winning music historian Robert Gordon to discuss how this box set was brought to life and the story behind ‘MEMPHIS.’ The event will be live streamed on both Elvis’ Facebook and YouTube channels.

Produced by noted Elvis authority Jørgensen, with rare archival material and new liner notes by Gordon, ‘MEMPHIS’ is available in 5CD, 2LP, and digital configurations, giving fresh insight into the bond between Elvis and his eternal home. Earlier this week in a feature at Billboard, Jørgensen and Matt Ross-Spang spoke to the task of imbuing the set with reverence and building where appropriate on Presley’s artistic sensibilities.

With the exception of the Sun recordings, all tracks on ‘MEMPHIS’ were newly mixed by 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.

5-CD Track Listing:

DISC 1 – SUN SINGLE MASTERS
01 That’s All Right
02 Blue Moon Of Kentucky
03 I Don’t Care If the Sun Don’t Shine
04 Good Rockin’ Tonight
05 Milkcow Blues Boogie
06 You’re A Heartbreaker
07 Baby Let’s Play House
08 I’m Left, You’re Right, She’s Gone
09 I Forgot To Remember To Forget
10 Mystery Train

THE SUN RCA LP MASTERS
11 I Love You Because (RCA LP version)
12 Just Because
13 Tryin’ To Get To You
14 I’ll Never Let You Go (Little Darlin’)
15 Blue Moon
16 Harbor Lights
17 I’m Left, You’re Right, She’s Gone (slow version, aka My Baby’s Gone)
18 When It Rains It Pours
19 Tomorrow Night
20 My Happiness
21 That’s When Your Heartaches Begin
22 I’ll Never Stand In Your Way
23 It Wouldn’t Be The Same Without You

DISC 2 – American ’69
01 In The Ghetto
02 Suspicious Minds
03 Don’t Cry Daddy
04 Kentucky Rain
05 Mama Liked The Roses
06 Do You Know Who I Am?
07 You’ll Think Of Me
08 True Love Travels On A Gravel Road
09 Long Black Limousine
10 After Loving You
11 I’ll Hold You In My Heart (Till I Can Hold You In My Arms)
12 From A Jack To A King
13 Without Love (There Is Nothing)
14 It’s My Way / This Time / I Can’t Stop Loving You (studio jam)
15 It Keeps Right On A-Hurtin’
16 I’m Movin’ On
17 Power Of My Love
18 Stranger In My Own Home Town
19 Wearin’ That Loved On Look
20 Any Day Now
21 Only The Strong Survive
22 Gentle On My Mind
23 The Fair’s Moving On
24 Hey Jude

DISC 3 – Stax ’73
01 Promised Land
02 Raised On Rock
03 I’ve Got A Thing About You Baby
04 If You Talk In Your Sleep
05 My Boy
06 Spanish Eyes
07 Help Me
08 I Got A Feelin’ In My Body
09 It’s Midnight
10 Find Out What’s Happening
11 If You Don’t Come Back
12 For Ol’ Times Sake
13 Just A Little Bit
14 Talk About The Good Times
15 Loving Arms
16 You Asked Me To
17 Good Time Charlie’s Got The Blues
18 Your Love’s Been A Long Time Coming
19 There’s A Honky Tonk Angel (Who Will Take Me Back In)
20 Take Good Care Of Her
21 She Wears My Ring
22 If That Isn’t Love
23 Three Corn Patches

DISC 4 – The Homecoming Concert
01 Also Sprach Zarathustra
02 See See Rider
03 I Got A Woman / Amen
04 Love Me
05 Trying To Get To You
06 All Shook Up
07 Steamroller Blues
08 (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear / Don’t Be Cruel
10 Medley: Long Tall Sally / Whole Lot-ta Shakin’ Goin’ On / Mama Don’t Dance / Flip, Flop And Fly / Jailhouse Rock / Hound Dog
11 Fever
12 Polk Salad Annie
13 Why Me Lord
14 How Great Thou Art
15 Suspicious Minds
16 Introductions
17 Medley: Blueberry Hill / I Can’t Stop Loving You
18 Help Me
19 An American Trilogy
20 Let Me Be There
21 My Baby Left Me
22 Lawdy, Miss Clawdy
23 Funny How Time Slips Away
24 Can’t Help Falling In Love
25 Closing Vamp

DISC 5 – Graceland ’76
01 Hurt
02 Never Again
03 Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain
04 Danny Boy
05 The Last Farewell
06 For The Heart
07 Bitter They Are, Harder They Fall
08 Solitaire
09 Love Coming Down
10 I’ll Never Fall In Love Again
11 Moody Blue
12 She Thinks I Still Care
13 Way Down
14 He’ll Have To Go
15 Pledging My Love
16 It’s Easy For You

Joan Rivers and Betty White Roast Each Other In Late-Night TV’s Comedy Gold

Aug 19, 2024

In the golden era of late-night television, where wit and charm ruled the airwaves, few moments could capture the essence of comedy quite like the exchanges between Joan Rivers and Betty White. Both icons in their own right, they brought an energy and finesse to late-night TV that’s hard to match, even today. Their appearances together were not just interviews—they were a master class in banter.

Photo Gallery: New Kids On The Block with Paula Abdul and DJ Jazzy Jeff

Aug 18, 2024

All photos by Mini’s Memories. You can contact her through Instagram or X.

Ian Anderson Opens Up To Dan Rather On Why The Flute Became His Signature Sound

Aug 17, 2024

When you think of Jethro Tull, the first image that comes to mind is likely Ian Anderson, commanding the stage with his iconic flute in hand. But how did Anderson, originally inspired by the likes of Muddy Waters and classical music giants, end up choosing the flute over the guitar? In an insightful interview with veteran journalist Dan Rather, Anderson takes us on a journey through his early musical influences and the pivotal moments that shaped his unique sound.

From his admiration for guitar legends to his deep appreciation for the complexity and beauty of classical music, Anderson shares the story behind his decision to make the flute his instrument of choice. It’s a fascinating look into the mind of a musical genius who dared to defy convention, creating a sound that’s as timeless as it is distinctive. This interview is a must-read for any fan eager to understand the origins of Jethro Tull’s legendary sound and the man behind the music.

Ted Lasso Stars Rock THUNDERGONG! 2023 with Epic ‘Love Shack’ Cover

Aug 17, 2024

Kansas City was buzzing with excitement as Ted Lasso stars Hannah Waddingham (Rebecca Welton) and Brendan Hunt (Coach Beard) took the stage at THUNDERGONG! 2023, delivering an electrifying cover of the B-52s’ classic hit Love Shack. Backed by the talented Summer Breeze, the duo lit up the Uptown Theater, bringing the house down with their energetic performance. It was a night to remember, filled with incredible music and even more incredible generosity, all in support of the Steps of Faith Foundation.

Since its inception in 2017, THUNDERGONG! has raised nearly $2.1 million to help provide prosthetics to over 1,000 individuals in need. This year’s pinball-themed musical extravaganza set a new record, raising an astounding $804,267! Every donation from the night will go towards restoring mobility and hope for amputees, proving once again that when music and community come together, magic happens.

Triumph the Insult Comic Dog Unleashes Hilarious Roasts on Conan O’Brien

Aug 17, 2024

On a recent episode of Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend, the ever-entertaining Conan O’Brien found himself squarely in the comedic crosshairs of none other than Triumph the Insult Comic Dog, the legendary puppet with a razor-sharp wit, voiced by the brilliant Robert Smigel.

As Triumph joined Conan, Sona, and Matt, the insults flew fast and furious, leaving everyone in stitches. It was a classic roast session that only Triumph could deliver—biting, hilarious, and utterly unforgettable. But this wasn’t just about laughs; Smigel also took the opportunity to chat about his latest creative venture, the animated film Leo.

Burl’s Art Crafts a Stunning 5-String Bass from 2,000 Colored Pencils

Aug 17, 2024

Burl, the visionary luthier behind Burl’s Art, is back at it again, pushing the boundaries of creativity and craftsmanship with his latest masterpiece—a 5-string bass made from 2,000 colored pencils! This isn’t just any bass; it’s a vibrant, eye-popping colorburst that takes his artistry to the next level.

What makes this build truly special is Burl’s departure from his usual linear designs. Instead, he’s crafted an outgoing colorburst that’s as bold and unique as it gets. This annual tradition of creating a colored pencil instrument started five years ago, and each year, Burl finds new ways to innovate and refine his designs.

Reflecting on his journey, Burl shares, “Since I began building guitars 5 years ago, I’ve tried doing one colored pencil build a year to see how I can improve upon the original design. I’m going back to my roots here, but this time with a new design, new methods, and a twist—it’s a bass, not a guitar.”

The result? A stunning blend of craftsmanship and creativity that’s as functional as it is beautiful. Burl’s Art continues to inspire with each build, proving that when it comes to combining art with music, the possibilities are truly endless.

Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass’ 1974 Variety Show That Previewed the Brilliance of The Muppet Show

Aug 17, 2024

Picture this: It’s 1974, and the legendary Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass are about to take the stage for a variety show that would go down in history—not just for the music, but for the unforgettable surprise guests that joined them. Thanks to the creative genius of the Jim Henson Company, this wasn’t just any ordinary performance. Oh no, this was a delightful precursor to what would soon become The Muppet Show.

Son of James Unveils Powerful Cover of Queen’s “We Will Rock You” to Mark the 100th Anniversary of Chinese Exclusion Act

Aug 17, 2024

Son of James, the dynamic Vancouver-based band renowned for their unique blend of rock, soul, and traditional Chinese music, is proud to release a powerful cover of Queen’s legendary anthem “We Will Rock You.” This special release is dedicated to the Chinese Canadian Museum to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Chinese Exclusion Act, which came into effect on July 1, 1923.

The Chinese Exclusion Act, a landmark of institutionalized racism, consisted of 43 sections that severely restricted Chinese immigration and rights in Canada for nearly a quarter of a century. This Act exacerbated the hardships initiated by the head tax, leaving lasting scars on the Chinese community. For Son of James’ frontman, the history is deeply personal. His grandfather immigrated to Canada in 1907, and his father was born in Cranbrook in 1913. Both men endured the profound pain and discrimination brought on by the Act.

“We Will Rock You” serves as a powerful symbol of the resilience and strength of the Chinese community in Canada. “The Chinese have time and time again faced racism and still face it today. ‘We Will Rock You’ is our line in the sand. We ain’t going anywhere. We gave our blood to help build this country,” says Son of James.

In addition to their cover of “We Will Rock You,” Son of James is excited to announce the release of their new single, “Come On”. This track showcases the band’s signature “Chynatruckerfunk” sound, blending gritty rock and funk with the delicate and haunting tones of traditional Chinese instruments.

“’Come On’ is so careening and funky that you’d have a hard time believing what’s making that gritty, swaggering sound is a delicate Chinese instrument,” says frontman Shon Wong. The track features the Guzheng (Chinese harp) in the intro, merging genres to create a sound that is both magnetic and magical.

“The Chinese have such beautiful instruments that pierce your heart, rip through your soul, and give you goosebumps,” Wong explains. “These instruments are the key ingredients to a Chinese Canadian sound that I am creating. Only with music of our own can we truly celebrate our identity.”

Son of James is a Vancouver-born-and-bred Chinatown rock band. They blend the soulful sounds of rock and funk with the mystical sounds of Chinese instrumentation. Led by Shon Wong, a third-generation Chinese Canadian, the band reflects his personal journey of defining his Chinese Canadian identity. Growing up with a family of Chinese Opera actors and performers, music and art have always been integral to Wong’s life.

Son of James features Michelle Kwan on Guzheng, Adam Richards on guitar/bass, Jonathan Reichert on guitar, Johnny Walsh on bass, Mark Hoeppner on keys, Dave Say on sax, Eric Tsang on sax, Jason Overy on drums, Ed Whelan on drums, and Erica Ullyot on vocals.

Indie Groover DARLING NIKKI Pays Homage to Elvis and Prince with Debut Single

Aug 17, 2024

Have you ever felt like you’re in the wrong place at the wrong time? Fortunately, indie groove songstress Darling Nikki is here to write the quintessential soundtrack for this exact feeling of desiring a lost era. With an artistry that conveys nostalgic themes of disco, funk, and hippie enthusiasm, Darling Nikki’s music takes listeners back to a time where 70s soul thrived.

Her debut single “Elvis” – written, recorded, produced by herself – along with producing and editing the video, too – is a retro-fueled earworm, combining a punchy bass line with catchy brass to deliver a story of the king of rock and roll himself. However, the song was initially inspired not by the King, but Prince.

Though he don’t even know my name
And he has never seen my face
I can feel that I will be the one he loves
The King of Rock’n roll

“I wanted to write a song about a special encounter I had with Prince, when I was a teenager,” Darling Nikki says. “He’s always been a huge inspiration, and I was a super fan and I chose my artist name after one of his songs. It’s bizarre that I met him several times, but the coolest thing was when I met him in a club in Monaco – we chatted and immediately clicked. The music sucked and we went together to the DJ Booth to pick James Brown tunes. It was really special. Like finally being at the right place at the right time, when all my life I felt I was at the wrong place at the wrong time.”

Her debut single tells the story of a girl who feels like an outcast and is drawn to Elvis, believing one day she’ll meet him, and everything will be okay. However, the girl will soon learn that the only one who can save you at the end of the day is yourself.

Though he’s a million miles away
And he don’t care about my pain
I can feel him, no-one else can soothe my soul
One day he’s gonna know

Combining funky guitars, rock and roll swagger and horns via Al Green, “Elvis” is a tune that draws listeners in the same way any idol attracts their devout fans.

“Elvis” is released ahead of Darling Nikki’s forthcoming EP Hippie Soul. The singer-songwriter says her EP is a multi-cultural project, featuring contributions from musicians and engineers from Brazil, Turkey, Germany, and the UK.

Born and raised in Germany herself, Darling Nikki started making music at five years old. In a country known for its iconic techno and industrial music scenes, Darling Nikki – drawn to 60s and 70s funk – felt like she was in the wrong place from an early age. At 17, she left home to become a professional musician. Throughout her career, she has provided vocals and worked with several renowned music industry figures including Larry Graham (Sly Stone, Prince), Dionne Warwick, and Nelly Furtado.

During the pandemic, Darling Nikki devoted herself to songwriting and is now preparing to release her debut EP Hippie Soul, a collection of the singer’s most deeply personal songs that celebrate her favorite musical era.

“With Hippie Soul, I also created my own genre and brand,” she says. “I want to take people back to a world where the air is thick of 70s nostalgia and to the free-spirited ethos of the Hippie Movement and its music.”

Her debut single, “Elvis,” is only a sneak peak of how Darling Nikki delivers 70s-inspired songs with her own unique touch.