I have many interests, which is one of the reasons that I seem to change my
layout so often. I seem to feel the need to have my myspace represent
exactly who I am at a moment's notice.
But today is a new day.
What I've come to realize is that, although I love so many different things,
in movies, gaming, music, books, etc., there is always one constant part of
my life that never changes. That is, my love and admiration for Elvis
Presley.
Ask anyone who's known me the past 5 - 6 years, and they tell you that my
interest in Elvis Presley... his life and music, knows no bounds. I've read
and re-read numerous books about him, and have well over 360 Elvis cds. I'm
an avid collector of his LPs and 45s, and have been to Graceland 5 times.
I've been to 2 Elvis Week celebrations (in 2003 and 2006, respectively), and
once during Birthday Week in 2008. But mind you, this isn't bragging. This
is just what I consider "my happiness".
Elvis is "my happiness". Whenever I'm feeling like things are just too much
to take, I listen to Elvis. I study Elvis. and for the past almost 6 years
since I began my journey as a fan, I still find things about his life and
music that inspire and enlighten me.
Do I think Elvis is alive? Well to be blunt, that's a very idiotic
question... but one I've been asked countless times. Hell yes, Elvis is
alive! He's in every breath I take and every beat of my heart. His music and
inspiration flows within and without me.
svn
Music
Movies
"Relax" from "It Happened At The World's Fair"
Television
"Love Me Tender / Witchcraft" on The Frank Sinatra 'Welcome Home Elvis' Timex Special.
Books
"Last Train To Memphis - The Rise Of Elvis Presley"
"Careless Love - The Unmaking Of Elvis Presley"
"Elvis: The Final Years"
"If I Can Dream: Elvis' Own Story" by Larry Geller
"I Called Him Babe" by Marian Cocke
Heroes
Sally... who's not only been there through the best and worse times with me, but is an inspiration to me everyday. She knows how to bring me down to earth when I lose my cool. We've been married for almost 19 years, and I honestly can't wait to see what the next 19 years have in store for us. I also owe her so much for just introducing me to the music of Elvis Presley, even if my obsession will probably one day put us in the poor house. :)
Christopher and Aaron... who always take time to make me laugh, especially when I seem to take the world too seriously. I've loved the times Cree and I have spent together, mostly gaming. And Aaron... well what can I say? He's my life. And he loves Elvis' music. How awesome is THAT?!
Jewels... my best friend for 13 years now. I'd like to tell you how thoughtful and understanding she is. I'd like to tell you she has the coolest Queen collection EVER. I'd like to tell you that she's one of the four most important people in life. And I just did. And even though she's not an Elvis fanatic, she's still recognizes and respects my interests in him... even to go as far as to send me one of the most difficult to find books on Elvis Presley. You're the best, Jewels! But then you knew that! ;)
Kevin... my brother who I haven't seen since 2003. If it wasn't for my brother, I probably would've never become a Beatles fan. It was basically my following his interest in the oldies of the 60's back when we were kids in 1986 that led me to becoming the Beatles fan I am today. And besides that, I'm very proud of my brother for all the awesome accomplishments he's achieved over the years. I wish he an I were as close as we were 20+ years ago, but who knows what the future has in store, right?
Tate... who I've known since we were kids. He one of the few people I know that I can express my 'geek side' with. We don't get to hang out as much as we used to, but when we do, it's all about celebrating our geekiness. And I gotta mention that Tate also, just because he knew I was an Elvis fan, bought me huge lot of Elvis books at an estate auction. In a way, he revitalized my interest in Elvis, especially in my quest to be an Elvis historian. Thanks Tate!
smithversusneo Just wanted to thank everyone for all the support Aaron's family has receieved it has been overwhelming. I'm so happy he meet to many wonderful people in his l Posted at 2:05 AM Apr 10 view more
"Let me just say that when I die, I hope Heaven makes me feel like Graceland
does." - smithversusneo - 12.25.2008
Rare footage of Elvis at American Sound Studios in Memphis, 1969.
February 13, 2009
"Elvis... In A Child's Eyes"
A couple weeks ago I stumbled across a couple of photos taken of Elvis Presley on stage in Norfolk, VA on July 20, 1975. And there was something about these images that I could not ignore.
Apparently between songs that evening, Elvis was giving out scarves when he noticed a little girl standing close to the edge of the stage. Upon kneeling down on one knee, he then realized that she was blind.
Elvis held the hands of this blind child and spoke to her for a few minutes. Now mind you, the audience could not hear what he said, as he had positioned the microphone away from his mouth. Now think about this for a moment. Here he is, the greatest entertainer in the world, taking a moment to talk one-on-one to a little girl in the audience. I can only imagine what he might have said to her, but I'm sure it was something that would forever be an important part of her life.
It times like these, when I examine Elvis Presley's life, that show a lot more of "the man" to me than anything else. When EPE (Elvis Presley Enterprises) ignores Elvis' career after the 'Aloha special' from January, 1973, they in turn deny Elvis fans a glimpse into one of the most important eras of his life. Yes, the final years of his life were definitely painful at times, but one cannot deny the moments of happiness, such as these pictures show, of how a man who's health may have been in decline, but could still have moments that would touch and reveal the heart of the human being that was Elvis Presley.
And believe me, there were many of these moments. There were many performances that would put the 'Aloha special' to shame. There would be many concerts that create such excitement, such bewildering chaos in the crowds, that the furor over his "shaky leg" in the 50's would seem almost tame in the mid-70's. "Elvis In Concert", the television special that aired a couple months after Elvis' death has still not been officially released. Elvis was indeed in poor health, but the performances are, in many ways, mesmerizing. But unfortunately the powers that be at EPE feel that the public cannot handle this. Or to put it in their words:
"Because of the severity of Elvis' health problems at the time the special was shot, Elvis was far from his best in the way he looked and the way he performed, though there are some truly brilliant moments in the footage. The true fans look at this through the eyes of love, respect and understanding, and see the great historical value - as do all the members of our staff. But, this not so with much of the general public and the media. It's not that we don't want the fans to have this footage or that we don't know how much it would mean to them. We do. There just simply is no way to get it only to the real fans (and we've exhausted all kinds of ideas) without also having Elvis served up to the general public and press for ridicule. They already emphasize and exaggerate the tragedy and sadness of the last years of his life too much. Right now, the emphasis for us is to remind them of all that came before."
Now mind you, I know that the people at EPE love and respect Elvis. And I can agree with them as far as the possibility of Elvis being "served up... for ridicule". But the fact that the merchandising that is done using Elvis' likeness (e.g. boxer shorts, wine bottles (Elvis didn't drink), Halloween costumes, etc.) leads more to ridicule than the reality of Elvis' life and appearance in 1977. And again, it isn't JUST about the 'Elvis In Concert' special being released. It's about everything between January 15, 1973 to August 16, 1977. How many more times can we see calendar photos of Elvis from 1956, or re-releases of "Elvis: That's The Way It Is" on DVD? How many more "'68 Comeback Special" or "Aloha From Hawaii" themed products can we be expected to buy before someone at EPE realizes that there's a whole era of Elvis' life, when he was singing more from his heart than probably any other time in his career. In the mid 70's, Elvis taught us more about who he was by the songs he sang than any point in time in his career. How can you ignore something as prominent as that?!
Which brings me back to the story and photos that started this. Look at them again and you might see exactly what I'm getting at. This is Elvis with a young fan. A small child who had been blind since birth, having a moment with "The King"... a private moment, if you will, where she, probably unknowingly, made an impact on his life just as he was surely impacting hers. Because in this moment, we see Elvis as the kind, gentle caring man. We see Elvis being human. We see the Elvis we've all heard stories about, but never got the snapshots. And this is Elvis in 1975.
Now who could ridicule that?
svn
December 12, 2008
Interpretations Of Elvis
If there's one thing I've come to appreciate over the past couple of years,
it's the artwork of those who attempt to bring Elvis Presley to life on
canvas. Even the old 70's black velvet paintings possess some kind of aura
about them that displays more than just a resemblance of 'The King'. Because
honestly it's just not about seeing Elvis in the artwork, but also about
seeing the adoration of Elvis as it radiates from it.
There was a time when I sketched my own rendition of Elvis (the only time),
and it was done years before I actually became a fan. (Does that make any
sense?) It was 1993, during a low point in my life, where I had turned to
doing portraits of people (celebrities, musicians, family) as a means of
being creative. So one day, while observing a picture of Jesus, mind you, I
drew, from memory, a picture of Elvis. And, it was the only one I later
colored in (with colored pencils) to give it more dynamic look.
Being ever so proud of my creation, I showed it to the only person I thought
might appreciate it... my grandmother. And as quick as you could blink, her
only response was "Elvis' lips don't look like that.". Well needless to say,
I took that bit of negativity to heart and decided NEVER to draw Elvis
again. (Maybe one day, when I find it, I'll scan it and post it here.)
But anyway, the past year or so, I've had a revelation when it comes to my
interest in Elvis. And everytime I think I've found something about his
life, his music, his movies or the rest of the world in relation to or as an
after effect of existence, there's always some new and interesting angle
that comes along and makes me feel rejuvenated into the world of Elvis
Presley. And right now, it's the interpretations of Elvis though the artwork
of others.
As you've seen below, one of my most recent purchases was that of an Elvis
print which came out shortly after his death. It really made a profound
effect me, and with that and my first black velvet Elvis painting, I
realized I was on my way to possessing the certain 'pieces of his life' (art
pieces, of course) that would not only make me smile, but they would
represent exactly where I am in my life right now.
I could go on and on, and one day I probably will... but all I can ask, for
those interested, is that you take the time to appreciate how other Elvis
fans (the true Elvis fans) see Elvis.
svn
October 25, 2008
Well once again, fate stumble upon me as I browsed Main Street Antiques this
afternoon, some 23 minutes before I was due to be at work. Luckily this
antique stores is only a couple blocks down the road from where I work, so
the quick run in is always possible. And fate made it's presence known in a
most peculiar way.
First of all, I was a little annoyed that the records that have become my
first stop were being swarmed by 5 individuals, 3 of which seemed too young
to even know what a vinyl album was, or better yet, how to play one.
Anyway, being the considerate individual that I am (much too often, I might
add), I proceeded to look around the rest of the antique store, looking for
that special item that was just waiting for me to take it home.
Just then, over the store's sound system came a song I hadn't heard in years
(like 25 years, I think). And immediately it took me back to my childhood.
No, it wasn't Elvis or The Beatles. No, it was Juice Newton's "Queen Of
Hearts". Yeah, I know... "so what?!" Well if you knew anything about me in
the early 80's, I was brought up in a household where country music played
constantly (partially due to the fact that my grandparents were in a band
together, along with two of my uncles and the ever changing lead guitarist).
Well, that song was one which I have fond memories of hearing my grandmother
practice on Wednesday nights when the band would gather in the living room.
Mind you, I'm not a country fan, but it made me appreciate the process of
making and performing music, which is one of the reasons why listening and
learning about Elvis Presley's recording sessions have become so fascinating
to me.
Okay, to make this short story even longer, this song (and the memories
attached to it) immediately affected me. I mean I literally stood there and
thought, "Okay, this is a sign." And wouldn't you know it, I was right. /
If you look down to my entry on August 22, I mentioned not only how in awe I
was to finally hear Elvis' Sun recordings on my "faux" turntable at home,
but I also mentioned how I wanted to experience it, with every imperfection,
scratch, skip that would make it way out of the speakers.
Well guess what?! Thanks to my unique find today, I've inched even closer to
the 'true' experience I've been longing for.
Check it out!
A 1960's Vintage Deejay Phonograph
For just $17.95, I bought this beat up, somewhat filthy children's record
player. Okay, now before you laugh, there's more. You see, when I brought it
up the owner of the antique store, I asked her if it worked. She said,
"Sure, although it appears that the volume switch is a bit staticky (yeah,
that's a word, look it up!), and it takes turning it just right to get the
sound to play out of the speaker (that's 'speaker' in the singular sense of
the word). She put on some old punk rock record she had laying around, and
I'll tell you, it sounded like shit. But not because it was punk (I mean,
punk sounds like shit to me, no matter what it's played on), but it sounded
like shit in a good way. And that when I told her, "I sounds completely
awful... I'll take it!"
Needless to say, she chuckled at my remark, as she explained how they get
old record players in every so often, but there gone just as soon as she
puts them on the shelf. And I just knew there was no way I was leaving with
out this one!
So tonight at work, during my break, I spent some time cleaning it up. I
mean, there's only so much you can do with a record player that's older than
I am, and with the majority of the player being made out of thick cardboard,
you can't be too free with the soapy water. But it's awesome, I love it...
in all it's worn out glory!
So guess what I'm doing tomorrow? After I get a moment to myself (probably
at 6:00am, after only 3 1/2 hours sleep, but still before anyone else has
woken up), I'm gonna grab my Elvis 45's and I'm gonna christen my new
vintage record player with one of my favorite Elvis songs, "That's When Your
Heartaches Begin". Here's a little photo montage along with this song.
Enjoy... I know I will. ;)
"That's When Your Heartaches Begin"
October 7, 2008
I've come to realize recently, that my interest in Elvis is much more
profound than I first thought. When I first became a fan of 'The King', I
think my first initial interests were in trying to prove that I was a fan.
One might say, the first couple years, my 'early learning stage', was spent
trying to convey to others just how much my life had been changed by Elvis
Presley. I spent hours upon hours writing about my experiences, my dreams
and those little moments where I felt I had to defend 'The King'.
But slowly, after the birth of my son Aaron, I seemed to lose the time to
express myself. And I also lost touch with those who were with me every time
I discovered something new about Elvis. And unfortunately, although my love
of Elvis remained strong, I began to drift into other realms... darker
realms. In a way, I felt that if I could no longer express myself to others,
then what was the point of dreaming... of imagining walking through the
gates of Graceland ever again. Believe me, it was a sad period for me, but
one I learned from.
How? Well let's just say there were a few 'instances' that made the
difference.
Each year in February I attend an Elvis Fest in Orlando, Florida. I've gone
3 times since 2003, and each time is an event. Mind you, my only interest
for going is to buy (mostly) vintage Elvis memorabilia. From '45s (with
picture sleeves) to cds, from metal tin signs to my 1978 Elvis trash can,
I've seen it all (or most of it) and added items to my collection that I
once thought I'd never own. Now each year that I attend, I always leave the
convention without some item that I loved, but for some reason I thought it
cost too much, or maybe I felt I had already spent enough money. Well this
past February there was one item I wish I hadn't left behind.
Behold! The 'My Way' print:
My wife noticed this print as we walked from booth to booth, and asked me if
it was something I was looking for. Knowing at the time that I was in search
of a black velvet Elvis painting (which sadly, there were none there), she
was trying to scout out anything that make up for my disappointment. Well, I
looked at the print, gave a little 'ehh' remark, and then as we continued to
find little Elvis gems here or there, I found myself coming back to that
picture.
Why? Well look at it! It's Elvis smiling, wearing the last jumpsuit he wore
on stage, with the words "My Way" at the bottom. Looking back, I feel like
such an idiot for leaving it behind, but then hindsight's a bitch, ain't
it?!
For me, the print symbolizes so much of why I'm an Elvis fan. For starters,
it's taken from the era of Elvis I'm most interested in right now. Not just
the 70's period, but the post 'Aloha' period, when, if you pay attention to
how EPE markets Elvis Presley, you'll realize that they tend to ignore
Elvis' career after January 1973. Why? Well most Elvis fans know that
answer. Because after 'Aloha', Elvis wasn't the same. Actually after
Pricilla left him in 1972 would probably be more accurate. From 1973 until
his death in 1977, Elvis began to go down a very dark path, both physically
and artistically. His music, from albums like 'Today', 'From Elvis Presley
Boulevard, Memphis, Tennessee' and 'Moody Blue' especially, Elvis' songs
became more reflective of himself. But sadly, that reflection was of pain,
sadness and loneliness.
So referring back to this picture, Elvis is seen smiling, pointing to the
heavens. Now anyone can interpret this in different ways. I choose to see it
as a sign, a promise if you will.
It's simply Elvis asking, "Are you going my way?" Think about it.
Now can you understand my frustration? I feel like I've missed out on
something that actually said something to me. And yet, it's not really about
the material things is it? Oh sure it is! I mean, I realize that my status
as an Elvis fan isn't measured by how much I talk about him, listen to his
music, or buy the millions of items that bear his name. But for me to
connect, it only takes a few unique pieces of Elvis' life to make me feel
content.
So in a few months I'll be making my trek to Orlando again, in the hopes of
finding those pieces that bring me a little closer to Elvis. And it really
doesn't matter if, when I get there, that Elvis print turns out to be only a
memory. It's the fact that I finally got it's message that will remind me of
where my destiny lies.
"Yes, Elvis... I am."
svn
September 15, 2008
"Mama Liked The Roses"
I heard this song for the first time today, while visiting my grandparents
gravesite at the Fort Myers Cemetary. I had just burned this cd just
yesterday, with songs from the January / February recordings Elvis made in
1969.
Anyway, as I got out of my car (leaving the engine running), I walked up to
their stone, and after saying goodbye I made my way back to the car and
"Mama Like The Roses" came on. Oh my God, just when I thought I'd heard
every conceivable way Elvis could sing a song and literally push me to
tears, this song just floored me.
Yeah, you'd think with as long as I'd been an Elvis fan, I would've heard
everything he's done, but keep in mind that I'm not your average Elvis fan.
When a certain song or era of his music appeal to me at any given time, I do
my best to absorb it, study it, and let it move me in whatever direction it
does.
Well today Elvis Presley did it again. And the footage in this clip, of him
and his mother and father, makes me wonder how, even 10 years after her
death, he could sing a song like this and not crumble beneath the weight of
it's message.
I gotta tell you Elvis. You never cease to amaze me!
svn
September 14, 2008
"Well, hello there... my it's been a long, long time..."
Success! I've finally added an item to my Elvis collection that might...
just might, surpass my black velvet Elvis Painting as the most prized item
in my collection! Today, while walking the fleamarket for the 2nd time in 3
days, I scored something I thought I'd never possess, well at least not
without paying an arm and a leg for it. And what's funny is, just a couple
moments prior, while parking the car in the fleamarket's parking lot, my
wife said, "You don't expect to find another Elvis statue do you? The one
you found the other day was pure luck." Little did we both know that
lightning would strike twice for me this weekend.
;)
BEHOLD! An authentic Elvis Whiskey Decanter, made in 1977 by Boxcar
Enterprizes (Colonel Parker's company which made many types of Elvis
memorablia)... with the box!
And the whole way I came about finding it was just uncanny. We literally
walked down the same isle we'd went through only 2 days prior, and right as
we began to pass this one booth, my wife says, "Oh my God... there it is!".
Well I turned my head to see this magnificent artifact just sitting there
waiting for me. I walked up and picked it up, admiring it as though I'd
found the Holy Grail and as the gentleman in the booth finished his
conversation with another customer, he asked, "Do you have any questions?".
My only reply was, "No... I just want to buy this!".
I quickly fished out the 35 bucks he was asking (a steal, in my opinion),
and then he mentioned, "And you know it has the original box as well.". I
was like, "Too freakin' cool!!!" (my exact words), and after placing it
carefully in the box and thanking him probably way too many times, I made my
way down the isle to catch up to my wife and 4 year old son Aaron and we
were on our way. And there I was, sweating my ass off in the fleamarket,
beaming like I'd won the lottery or something, carrying my Elvis Presley
whiskey decanter proudly.
Let me tell you... since I was a kid I've always had an interest in Elvis
Presley... even if it took 25+ years for me to realize it. And this little
piece of vintage Elvis memorabila is something, after the day I became a fan
of 'The King' , which I've always wanted... almost like a link to a time
when I was too young to understand, but also a time I've come to respect
with each passing day.
Some may say it's gaudy...(heck, I'm sure my Mom would). But to me, it's
definitely one of the, if not THE coolest piece of Elvis memorabilia I own.
Oh... and there was no whiskey inside. I checked. ;)
svn
September 13, 2008
Tonight, while searching through hundreds of Elvis photographs on the web, I
came across one photo that simply took my breath away. And yet, although
I've seen photos similar to this one many times, this one particular photo
just captured the awe and wonder that has meant the most to me over the past
6 years. ..
Welcome to... The Jungle Room.
Now most Elvis fans have seen photos of this room, and many, such as myself,
have had the pleasure of actually being in this room at Graceland. It is, by
far, my favorite part of Elvis' home. I can't tell you how many times, in
the 5 times I've visited Graceland, that I've found myself stopping in this
one room, doing my best to soak up all the aura that resonates from it.
Of course, those who've never been to Graceland may find it difficult to
comprehend my complete and utter fascination with this room, and although in
my mind the above photo does this feeling justice, I'm sure a kind of "you
had to be there" vibe is expected from those who haven't Graceland.
For myself, The Jungle Room represents a moment in time, a moment in the
70's when life was so so different than today. Since I was a teenager, I
always looked back on the 70's as though everything was painted in shades of
brown. It probably comes from all the photographs I would see in my
grandparents photo albums, where the pictures always seemed to turn that
color. But you've got to admit, with the look of wood paneling and the
clothes from that era, brown was definitely 'in'. And I don't think it's
been 'in' ever since! (Well at least not as far as fashion is concerned.)
And probably the most crucial aspect of this room, the part that means the
most to me is knowing that Elvis recorded two his last albums in this room.
I've never been to the Sun Records studio, or any of the other studios he
recorded the bulk of his RCA catalog from. But for a few days in both
February and October of 1976 were recorded what would become the final
"studio" recordings of Elvis Presley. And from those sessions the two
following albums were released:
"From Elvis Presley Boulevard, Memphis Tennessee"
"Moody Blue"
Now let me be the first to say, I haven't been an Elvis fan for very long.
Well, 6 years doesn't feel very long. But I will say that the first time I
walked into The Jungle Room (which was August 16, 2003... 26 years to the
day that Elvis Presley had passed away) and felt that powerful presence that
still dwells there to this day, I made a point to pay close attention to
those two albums, not just for their significance, but also for the overall
feeling. I can honestly tell you, everytime I hear any song from either of
those albums (be it the master or alternate take), it's like I'm standing
right there, RIGHT in that Jungle Room photo above... and I imagine Elvis,
the Sweets, Voice and the rest of his band performing. It's a mind trip to
be sure. But it's one I never grow tired of visiting and re-visiting again
and again.
I wish I could really explain what it is about The Jungle Room that
fascinates me so. And who knows, maybe one day, be it in a dream or in the
middle of "Way Down" the answer will present itself. But until then, I'll
continue to find myself drawn to that one room at Graceland... where 'The
King' made some of his most memorable music, and left and eternal legacy.
svn
September 2, 2008
Lately I've found myself at times, wondering what it is about Elvis Presley
that's made such an important impact on my life. I mean, I've been a diehard
fan of several artists and bands over the years, from The Beatles and Queen
to The Smashing Pumpkins and Evanescence, my musical interests have always
been varied, but each held a very important place in my life.
But not like Elvis. No, Elvis' music, especially his recordings between 1972
and 1977, hold an even more vital part of who I am... or perhaps who I was.
You see, as I've mentioned below, there's more to my becoming an Elvis fan
than just because I love the music. It's as though I've found the one
connection to my youth, to the childhood I never got to experience to it's
full potential. Don't get me wrong, just because I'm 37 years old now
doesn't mean I'm suffering from a mid-life crisis. On the contrary, I'm
looking forward to turning 40. I look forward to seeing those first gray
hairs make their presence known. I actually look forward to growing old,
seriously.
No, this connection I feel comes only when I listen to Elvis Presley's music
from an era that has been called by some his most uninspired... his most
depressing. And yet, within all the sadness of Elvis' later recordings is
where I find peace. Does that make any sense?
I guess the best way to describe it, which will probably still appear as
confusing to some, is that the sound, the visuals (both in photos and videos
I've seen and those I imagine as I listen) and the brown tint everything
from that era carries with it possess something magical... something warm,
comfortable and peaceful. I now realize that although my childhood was
probably filled with more pain and nightmares than I'd rather not relive,
there's this honest need to relive it all over again...
That album that started it all for me, "Elvis As Recorded At Madison Square
Garden" was only a clue to me in 1995 (see below). Because now in 2008, when
I take out the vinyl, it's the label that graces it that takes me back. It
takes me back to that living room at my grandparents, with it's black and
white shag carpet and curtains to match. And in the corner of that room, was
my grandfather's record player. And when that day, when I decided to take
that Elvis album and place the needle within the grooves which spun at 33
and 1/3 revolutions per minute, I found myself staring at that orange RCA
label spinning 'round and 'round. That, my friends was the discovery of 'My
Happiness', even if I was too young at the time realize or appreciate it.
Well I realize it now. I've spent many years trying to relive my childhood.
But now there's no need to just try. Because it's that orange label, that
seemingly insignificant orange label that keeps on bringing it back.
August 22, 2008
Have you ever found something you never knew you were looking for? Well
today, I did just that. I was so in the mood to find really cool Elvis LP,
and after trekking through the fleamarket, sweating my ass off, only to come
up with nothing, I made a short stop at this local antique shop I know on
the way to work.
And after walking around for 15 minutes or so, I discovered:
"The Complete Sun Sessions"
Now the reason my finding this double LP was important was that I've been
looking for an album that would totally give me the almost complete sense of
what it was like to listen to songs on an old record player back in the
early to mid 50's. And I've heard all of Elvis' Sun recordings on cd, and
even though they have that scratched up, crackling vinyl noise I love so
well, I still felt cheated out the full experience.
Well let me tell you, finding "The Complete Sun Sessions" on LP was like
Christmas Day for me. And for only an easy $15, I not only have a -mint-
copy of this kick ass album, but tomorrow I'll be looking for that feeling
of being at the edge of heaven as I listen to it on my turntable in all it's
beautiful glory. Nothing puts me at peace like Elvis' Sun recordings. And
now being able to hear them they way they were intended is literally all I
could ever hope for.
January 21, 2008
"Sometimes The Answer Is Only An Elvis Song Away"
I'd like to express my feelings as they stand right now, this day, January
21, 2008. It's something I've wanted to express for a long time, but I never
felt I could truly explain exactly how I felt. I'm not even sure I'll
succeed in explaining it here, but I'll try.
2007 was a terrible year for me, personally. I won't bore you with the
'wah-wah' details, but I think that when an individual can honestly look
back upon one year in their life and see it for what it truly was, then the
expression 'one of the worst years of my life' pretty much says it all. Not
many people know exactly why 2007 sucked so much for me, but there are a
couple really close people in my life who know most if not all about what
made that year so bad.
But 2007 is gone, and that's what needs to be realized. I must stop dreading
on the past if I'm ever to be 'happy'.
This year, except for a few health issues and some soul searching on my
part, has actually been a very good year for me. Again, no reason for me to
go into details, but I do feel the need to explain a couple of them.
A few days prior to my leaving for Memphis, Tennessee for Elvis' Birthday
Celebration, I was going through a difficult time. I don't recall exactly
what the issue was, I've since attempted to block out such negative
thoughts, but I was definitely in a sour mood. While cleaning the house late
one afternoon, I decided to listen to an album that I really never paid much
attention to before.
Titled "Elvis Recorded Live On Stage In Memphis", I found Elvis' enthusiasm
and energy quite refreshing, especially at a time when I needed all the good
vibes I could get.
Near the end of the album, a song I'd heard Elvis perform before began to
play and it was at that moment I felt something, a revelation if you will.
The song was 'Let Me Be There', originally an Olivia Newton John hit, but to
hear Elvis sing it, just like with many of his songs, he literally made it
his own.
As I found myself singing along, the words began to really hit me, 'way
down' as Elvis would say, into my soul. And it was this revelation that
would later lead to a change in my entire outlook on the future. No, it
wasn't as though THAT NIGHT my life was altered, it would take a few more
days of misery before the song itself would finally bury it's way into my
heart.
"Wherever you go
Wherever you may wonder in your life
Surely you know, I always wanna be there.
Holding your hand
And standing by to catch you when you fall
Seeing you through, in everything you do."
So at some point following that original moment of realization, the the
first verse in the song came over me as though Elvis was standing right
beside me, like an old friend (or big brother, as I usually think of him),
just trying to tell me that pretty much no matter how bad or difficult
things may seem, one of the ultimate pleasures in my life, which is Elvis'
music, would always be there to make the sadness go away. Sounds pretty
bizarre to some people I'm sure, but when you're an Elvis fan, it makes
perfect sense.
"I said let me be there in your morning
Let me be there in your night
Let me change whatevers wrong and make it right.
Let me take you to that wonderland that only two can share
All I ask you, is let me be there."
As the song continues, the chorus which I always seem to find comfort in
singing to myself, sometimes when I'm not even meaning to, just puts the
entire belief I now have into perspective. Because Elvis is there in my
morning, and he's there in my night. He takes what ever's wrong and makes it
right.
His music takes me to that wonderland, a world of complete and utter utopia
that can not really be compared to ANYTHING else I've experienced in my
life.
And the line that really sticks in my head and probably gave me the most
inspiration is that all that Elvis asks is to let him be there.
"Watching you grow
And going through the changes in your life
That's how I know, I always wanna to be there.
Whenever you feel you need a friend to lean on
Here I am.
Whenever you call, you know I'll be there."
Again, no words have been written, at least those that have been sung by
Elvis, that were more truer at least to my life than those in the verse
above.
I've always felt that Elvis looks down upon us all, and I gotta believe when
we visit his home, celebrate his life, whatever it is that we Elvis fans do
to remember him, I gotta believe in my heart that it makes him smile. And as
he watches us as we go through the changes in our lives, you just know he
wants to be there.
And most importantly, and I say this solely out of my own experience in
being an Elvis fan, whenever I feel I need a friend to lean on, Elvis is
there. He's seeing me through in everything I do.
Now I do want to admit, I never intended on writing what now has become just
another of my interpretations of Elvis songs, but as with anything I do
that's Elvis related, things don't always end they way you originally
thought they would.
But I will tell you, that this song, hell this very performance from March
20, 1974, has made a huge impact, and not only on my life, but my entire
outlook. Now I can't say there will never be a time when the pressures of
this world will get the best of me, or that I'll never lose my cool over
trivial problems. But one thing I can promise you, I will never forget that
no matter how difficult the times may be or what challenges I will face in
the future, I will always let Elvis be there.
* All photos taken March 20, 1974 - Midsouth Coliseum, Memphis, TN
March 24, 2008
My time to be personal is short. But it¹s times like these that I take for
granted, for when it comes to being personal and honest with myself, I find
excuses to not express myself. And by doing so... I¹ve cheated myself.
I write this primarily because I find this world just a little too much to
take. I find it hard to cope with the struggles of being a father, a
husband, a bread winner, and a happy individual overall.
I¹ve written in the past as I will probably continue to do well into the
future, about how my life was changed due to my discovery of Elvis Presley¹s
music. But for as deep and meaningful that each song that touches my soul
has affected me,... there¹s more to it than that.
It¹s not JUST the music. It¹s not JUST going to Graceland, or JUST meeting
some of the most wonderful Elvis fans I¹ve met. It¹s so much more than that.
My wife has yet to totally comprehend my love and devotion to the music and
memory of Elvis Presley. It¹s unlike anything I¹ve personally felt. I seek
to understand who he was, why he holds such a strong power over me. It¹s not
fan obsession... I¹m well past being JUST a fan. Elvis has become my world,
and it¹s hard admitting that, when I still have to accept and exist in the
world I was born into. It¹s not that I¹m not premitted to idolize Elvis, for
I would never let anyone... and I mean ANYONE prohibit the feelings I feel
when I hear him sing "Always On My Mind" or "I¹ll Never Let You Go (Little
Darlin¹)". It¹s the music and expression Elvis¹ songs shower over me that
makes me love him more and more each day.
At first I thought I was just following suit, as if I was being a fan simply
because I could talk to other¹s who could understand my obession. And for a
while, when life got in the way of my expressings myself, I thought it might
literally kill the power Elvis had over me. But boy I was wrong. Dead wrong.
Since my last visit to Graceland, and my last Elvis Fest 6 weeks after that,
I¹ve learned more about Elvis but better yet, more about myself than I
thought I ever could. I¹ve found a reason to look forward to tomorrow. Of
course my family and friends mean the world to me, and I don¹t mean to
appear as though Elvis comes before them. But I will be the first to admit
he¹s right there with them. He¹s as much a part of my life as my mother who
gave birth to me, my grandparents who raised me and my wife and kids who
stand by me through all of life trials, as I stand beside them just the
same.
But why?
Why would one man, who¹s been praised and ridiculed ever since his first
appearence on television, and sometimes even more so since his death, how
can one man hold such a power over me?
I can¹t tell you simply because I don¹t know. It¹s like trying to explain
why a person continues to breathe or their heart continues to beat. It¹s all
involuntary, just as my sincere love for Elvis and the power he has over me.
Did you know I carry a book about Elvis, titled "Elvis: The Final Years" by
Jerry Hopkins, and I take it with me wherever I go. I¹ve read 5 times over
the past 6 months... and although it always ends sadly... I think in the
back of my mind I keep hoping the ending will change.
See, this would be the part where I say, "I know it sounds weird..." or, "I
must be obsessed.", but to be quite honest, I don¹t feel that way at all. I
feel completely natural to be honest. I feel as though that if I was give
the time, I could write and ramble on forever about why Elvis means so damn
much to me, probably repeating myself, but nonetheless, feeling as though I
was finally being personal and honest with myself.
And that¹s what this world needs, doncha think?
Well I appreciate anyone who took the time to read this. If you feel the
need to put me down for laying the truth out as I¹ve done, well then you
obviously don¹t get it. But I get it. And I don¹t need the recognition,
approval or respect of anyone else to tell me different.
And finally, to Elvis:
For the last 35 + minutes as I wrote this, I¹ve listened to you sing "Always
On My Mind" over and over again. And just as I did the first time I heard
this song so many years ago, to this very moment, that song will be an
anthem for me. I know you originally intended as your feelings of heartbreak
of losing Pricilla, but the overall message rings true. "You we¹re always on
my mind." And you always will be.
Well obviously my myspace page is about me, which of course means that Elvis
Presley is a part of me. This is true in many ways, some of which other's
will never understand. But that's okay, because I've come to realize that I
don't need anyone to "understand" anything about me. I used to think I had
to prove my worth when it came to being an Elvis fan. But again, I now
realize that that too is ridiculous. To think for one moment that I need to
post blogs, comments, photos, reviews etc., about Elvis to prove that he's
as important to me as ever is just stupid. I really don't even need to make
a myspace page in dedication to him, JUST to prove anything. I do this, as I
do anything regarding Elvis Presley, out of the undying respect I have for
him.
I discovered Elvis Presley back in the early to mid 80's. After rummaging
through some old records at the my grandparents house, I came across the
Elvis album "As Recorded At Madison Square Garden". Now, I've recently
mentioned finding this album to several people in my family, and none of
them can recall ever owning an album by Elvis Presley.
Needless to say, during a time when Prince was with the Revolution, the
Talking Heads were still talking, and Duran Duran was on the verge of
becoming a trio, I found myself drawn to this album, and yet, I only
listened to one song on it. The medley of "Teddy Bear / Don't Be Cruel" was
played over and over, but I never seemed to have the interest on listening
to the entire album at that time.
Well a couple years down the road, my father had remarried (again), and he
mentioned that his wife was this huge Elvis fan. Well being the considerate
teenager I was, I gave her (that's right, GAVE away) this copy of "As
Recorded At Madison Square Garden". And as you probably guessed... I never
saw that album again. And ironically, Elvis Presley would still not make an
impact on my life for another 15 years.
Fast forward to 1994. While at my favorite record / cd store, I found a used
copy of "As Recorded At Madison Square Garden" on cd for only $5.99. Of
course the album caught my attention, and I bought it and put it away... for
a rainy day, I guess. Jump to 1995, Moving Day. Here I was, moving boxes and
boxes into our new apartment. And course, how can I do this without a little
music playing as I work? So after hooking up the stereo, I looked through my
cds and there is that copy of "As Recorded At Madison Square Garden". And
that day, and for a few days more, I listened to it, front to back. I really
enjoyed Elvis' performances of songs I'd never heard before. But still... I
wasn't hooked... not yet.
Fast forward once more to August 13, 2002. The day before my 31st bithday.
My wife decided to let me enjoy the day, while she would pick up my son from
school. I was basically given rule over the t.v. (God, I miss those days),
and I proceeded to watch some of the 'Planet Of The Apes" films, which I
love so much.
Around 4:00pm, there's a knock at the door. I open it and find my 11 year
old son Christopher, standing there with this HUGE Elvis Presley gift bag.
(I still have it!) He exclaims "Happy Birthday!' as I take the bag. After
thanking them both for surprising me like this, I discover that my wife,
after hearing me mention recently how much I'd like to 'get into' Elvis
Presley's music, has purchased me some very cool Elvis gifts.
The first was a newly released 3-disc box set titled "The Great
Performances". The second was the film "Elvis: That's The Way It Is"
(Special Edition), and finally a magazine titled "Elvis: Then And Now".
Obviously my wife, an Elvis fan already at that time, was gonna give me a
crash course in "The King". Little did she know what she started...
After spending all weekend watching those DVDs over and again, and reading
this cover to cover magazine on Elvis, I found an advertisment inside for
the "Elvis Collectors Club". And on August 26, 2002 I became a founding
member (#686) of the official club (now known as the Elvis Insiders), which
I've been for almost 6 years now.
Since then, my journey into the world of Elvis Presley has been a great
ride. I've met a lot of people who worked with Elvis and made a lot of
friends. I've been to Graceland five times, the Candlelight Vigil twice, two
Elvis Weeks and one Birthday Week. I've stayed at the Heartbreak Hotel (down
at the end of Lonely St., mind you), written on the wall outside of
Graceland and hung out inside the first home Elvis bought on Audubon Drive.
I've been to three Elvis Fests, bought over 370 Elvis cds, well over 70
DVDs, and I've recently begun buying Elvis LPs and '45s. I've got well over
70 books on Elvis, and have read many of them as much as 5 times through. I
own every single one of Elvis' 33 films and I even own a black velvet Elvis
painting (the pride and joy of my collection). :)
So here we are, in 2008. I've read, learned, listened and absorbed many
aspects of Elvis Presley, and yet I still feel like I have so much to learn,
so much to experience. But that's okay, because as long as I live, as long
as there's a beat in my heart and a breath in my lungs, I will be a loyal
fan of "The King".
It's okay if you still don't get it. Maybe you were never meant to. :)
"Elvis, I'm forever in your debt. Without ever really knowing me, you've
changed my life, all for the better. I only pray that one day, when I too am
ready to leave this world, that I may meet you in heaven and tell you in
person."
Well it turns out I have gallstones and will need surgery. No way to joke about that the way I did about when my uterus abandoned me. In my mind I will hear the joking you would have said (after the actual concern though). I miss you.
I miss you my friend. This is going to sound selfish....but yesterday I had a CAT scan (Dr. thinks maybe kidney stones) and other than Gary asking if I'd heard anything yet not one person has asked. Not Jasmine. Not any of my other friends. You would have. I miss you for so many reasons but I really miss knowing someone else was out there giving a crap about me. Like I said selfish huh.
There still isn't a day that goes by that something doesn't spark a memory of you. I still laugh at the crazy stupid things we used to joke about. Miss you still my friend.
Hey today is one of your favorite holidays.....NOT!!!! It's COLUMBUS DAY WOO HOO. How did you put it..."a worthless holiday celebrating the day the man got lost".
This song came up on my iPod (which is still significantly larger) while it was on shuffle and it made me think of you. Even though it's for really a couple and not friends it still is perfect what with the theme....Josh Groban (and that inside joke) and the fact that it's partly written by Richard Marx.
just stopping by to say i miss you. i am having lunch with sally tomorrow. i am looking forward to catching up with her and everything that has been going on. love you!!!
Another wave hit me as I left work today. I miss the phone call as I cleaned up on Saturdays cuz you were bored while driving to work. Did you ever really understand the impact you had on peoples lives?
Planning a birthday party for Popie in September. He is going to be 83 years old. I wish you were here and I really wish I would have done it last year. I hope Sally and the boys can make it.
Dude I always feel your pressence, But I sure do miss you. Edlyn and I will be moving into a new home in the not too distant future. I won't miss my current home at all except in that it was where we hung out the most in these last years. My new comicbook room will be bigger, but it won't be the same not having you around to share it with. Your picture will always be hanging there so we can chill out there together as much as possible.
till the end of FOREVER & beyond!!!!!!!!! C I miss you so much!!!!!!!!!! I think of you daily remembering all of the priceless times we shared for almost 7years..A friendship that has no expiration date... I know you would be in Elvis' world now celebrating your birthday...but you're enjoying one GREAT Elvis BDAY jamming session today Sending much love & thinking about Sally & the boys today as well Cynxxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
Honestly today has been incredibly difficult. Things just aren't the same without you around to talk to. I hope you know how much you are missed and how very much you are loved. Happy Birthday!
So tonight I finally paper punched all those conversations of ours and put them in a binder. We had some classic conversations man. Wish you were here to wish a Happy Birthday to. I miss you still.
So this November I'm going to see Wicked on their 3rd tour to Cleveland. It'll make my 5 time seeing it. It will be the first time seeing it since I lost you, the BEST FRIEND that a person could ever have. This song is for you Shawn....forever and always.
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