All posts tagged Elvis Collector

Elvis Presley requirements – September 10, 2015 edition

Welcome to the September 10, 2015 edition of Elvis Presley requirements.

What are, or is, the “Elvis Presley requirements” you say?

Well, it is my (approximately) six decades of personal experiences of collecting, reading, etc. all things of quality concerning the life, onstage and off, of Elvis Presley.

If you want to learn intricate details about Elvis, and even after these six decades I am still learning and/or rediscovering, I have some recommendations.

First and foremost you can garner a lot of information, music, videos, etc. by visiting the official Elvis Presley website of http://www.Elvis.com. YouTube has a lot of content as well but don’t get distracted, or worse, about others that have adverse agendas and/or use attention getting subject lines that are hollow.

There are some exceptional books about Elvis. Some of the most interesting Elvis books are authored by Peter Guralnick] and some of my favorite books, which I recommend, are authored by Alanna Nash.

You can find exceptional books, articles, writings, posts, video projects, documentaries, etc. with contributions by (including but not limited to); Marty Lacker, Billy Smith, Red West, Sonny West, Jerry Schilling, Sandi Pichon, Joe Esposito, Sandie Kay Stevens, etc.

If you are looking for some great songs Elvis recorded, but are not widely acknowledged but are nonetheless exceptional, here are a few of my favorites; inherit the wind, wearing that loved on look, wonderful world, unchained melody, treat me nice, snowbird, walk a mile in my shoes, you’ll never walk alone, 500 miles, mona lisa (aka portrait of my love), trying to get to you (1968 edition), let yourself go, and edge of reality.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention http://www.ElvisCollector.info and http://www.ElvisCollectorWorldwide.freeforums.org.

Until next time…

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by Jeff Schrembs on September 11, 2015 • Permalink

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Posted by Jeff Schrembs on September 11, 2015

https://theelvisexpert.com/2015/09/11/elvis-presley-requirements-september-10-2015-edition/

Review of Elvis’ “If I Can Dream” rendition with the Philharmonic Orchestra

A “new” rendition of Elvis’ incomparable rendition of “If I Can Dream” has been made available on CD and/or download. There is no doubt that everyone had good intentions and put together a quality cd. Everyone of the musicians in the Philharmonic Orchestra are talented and that is a good thing. Same with the backup singers.

Over the years the estate has undertaken endeavors to have some of Elvis’ songs altered and released. I know the reasons are, in part, in order to garner some media buzz and to potentially reach new audience members who then will become Elvis fans. I have supported the estate, in many ways both publicly and privately, and I have no plans to do otherwise.

However, Elvis Presley was more than a singer. He was more than an exciting performer. He was, in every sense of the word, a music producer. Felton Jarvis, who I had the honor of corresponding with, was (at first) RCA’s record producer of Elvis’ recordings in 1966 but then went to work exclusively with Elvis until Elvis’ death in 1977. Felton readily admitted that Elvis was a perfectionist of his recordings. He “felt” the song. He was “moved” by the words and the enunciations. He surrounded himself with some of the greatest musicians, orchestra, and backup singers in the world. His songs oozed unique vocal inflections with meaning. With soul. Majestic in it’s impact. Ageless in it’s spirit.

Elvis’ performance in the 1968 Singer special entitled “Elvis” was Elvis’ first live performance in (approximately) 8 years. Elvis lost weight. He sang and rehearsed instead of having to focus on his movie contracts has he had been since 1960 where he was committed to (approximately) 3 movies per year. Elvis was saddened at the loss of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and bothered that his special man had been gunned down in Elvis’ (home) residency of Memphis Tennessee.

Steve Binder did a phenomenal job putting this special together along with “keeping it real” with Elvis. For the first time in memory someone was honest with Elvis. Binder knew that Elvis was a great talent but that the movies he had been making had diluted his impact pertaining to his recordings, impact, popularity, and ability to garner new fans. Steve Binder wanted to make Elvis’ music relevant. He wanted Elvis to lose weight and sing. He surrounded Elvis with possibilities and Elvis seized the opportunity. As an Elvis fan there are not enough adjectives, or words, to fully express how Steve Binder changed Elvis’ career and propelled him to international superstardom with a body of works to follow that will forever be among the greatest recordings ever made.

The backdrop of this was the 1960s. You had the Beatles, Beach Boys, Rolling Stones, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, Motown, Vietnam, etc. Times were changing. People were changing. There were divisions of all kinds. And yet in this Singer TV Special of 1968 Elvis rose to this occasion with a blend of rock, gospel, humor, attitude, and with an unequalled vocal range with a sweat dripping performance for the ages.

Back when I was married my wife wasn’t an Elvis fan. She liked a few of his songs. But when it came to Elvis’ career she stated that Elvis, in his 1968 Singer special, was “the most handsome and the best”. I miss her.

There is a story behind the writing of “If I Can Dream” that is very special. I encourage Elvis Presley fans to seek out the works, endeavors, and words of those who have recanted the facts about Elvis – the SInger 68 special – etc. This includes but is not limited to; Marty Lacker, Billy Smith, Red West, Sonny West, Joe Esposito, Jerry Schilling, Alanna Nash, Sandi Pichon, Sandie Kaye Stevens, Steve Binder, http://www.Elvis.com and more.

“If I Can Dream” was a song that (initially) Elvis sang wearing black leather (not the best version but highly entertaining and moving) before a live audience and athen wearing his custom tailored white suit complete with his jet black hair, earned sweat, and bona fide emotions. He lived that song. Hearing that song left an impression long after Elvis finished and said “goodnight”. Long after the TV Special ended. In my case “If I Can Dream” was among the greatest recordings Elvis made and I have (literally) seen them all. Listened to them countless times. There is something important about Elvis singing this song. It’s not something one could easily put their finger on. Nonetheless it is apparent with every movement. Every hand gesture. Every exchange of the microphone. Every note of that brilliant song. Elvis put his talents on display and was rewarded with high TV ratings, a renewed career, options, and confidence.

As much as I respect, and appreciate, the estate’s decisions pertaining to this song I can’t help but be honest and state that Elvis’ versions recorded for the 68 Special, are exceptional and should be listened to as Elvis performed it. No duets. No fake holograms. No background singers. No changes. This performance, and the recording, can stand alone…on it’s own.

Finally, would anyone allow the Mona Lisa to be altered? The statue of David? Those are masterpieces that are appreciated for what they are. The works of a god given once in a millennium talent who, through their success and failures, were brave enough to pursue their talents. Long after they took their last breath the works they left behind are beautiful to the eye along with spawning a fawning respect.

These works of art were made by true…artists. They need no changes. For one to behold…is all that needs to happen. Elvis Presley was an artist. Elvis’ songs, including “If I Can Dream”, need to simply be…watched…and listened to…as they were meant to.

Take care and may god bless you.

Jeff Schrembs www.ElvisCollector.info.

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by Jeff Schrembs on August 21, 2015 • Permalink

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Posted by Jeff Schrembs on August 21, 2015

https://theelvisexpert.com/2015/08/21/review-of-elvis-if-i-can-dream-rendition-with-philharmonic-orchestra/

Elvis. Elvis Presley. Elvis Aron Presley. And the fans who remember him

Singer.

Performer.

TV star.

King of Las Vegas.

His live performances unequalled.

Gospel singer.

Actor.

Son.

Father.

Friend.

Employer.

To his fans he left behind three decades of exceptional professional endeavors that resonates to this very moment.

“Nuff said.

Jeff Schrembs

http://www.ElvisCollector.info

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by Jeff Schrembs on August 19, 2015 • Permalink

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Tagged Al Wertheimer, elvis, Elvis Army, Elvis Collector, elvis expert, Elvis facts, Elvis fans, Elvis historian, elvis presley, Elvis Presley Collector, Elvis Presley facts, Elvis Presley fans, elvis presley historian

Posted by Jeff Schrembs on August 19, 2015

https://theelvisexpert.com/2015/08/19/elvis-elvis-presley-elvis-aron-presley-and-the-fans-who-remember-him/

Elvis (Presley) week August 2015

This being August of 2015 Elvis, even more than routinely, will be in the forefront of media attention not only for it being (sadly) the 38th anniversary of his passing (i.e. August 16, 1977) but for the United States Postal Service offering a “forever Elvis Stamp”.

While many will be traveling to Graceland, or getting together in person and/or online with other Elvis fans, there will be many who will acknowledge their memories of Elvis privately. Regardless of geographical location with the plethora of Elvis’ professional material available for sale, and/or on the internet, is extensive and much of which is of quality.

On one page of the website http://www.ElvisCollector.info I have the names of those who were integral part of Elvis’ life but (sadly) they too have passed away. After much thought, and with an emphasis of respect to the loved ones and family members of those who have passed, I decided on incorporating this into the site.

Many of those listed on the site I was fortunate enough to know, or have met, or have spoken with, or have communicated with, and/or I was able to (over a period of decades) convey my appreciation and respect. I continue to keep their family, and loved ones, in my prayers knowing that there are no words that can heal the loss that they have endured through the very writing of this post.

Knowing full well that we are the last generation with personal connections to Elvis, while he was alive in his prime, and performing to sold out crowds throughout the United States. Man, those days seem….like a lifetime ago.

To Lisa Marie, Priscilla, EPE, Jack Soden, etc. thank you for allowing Elvis Presley fans to view Graceland since 1982.

To so many that loved Elvis, and Elvis loved and trusted, such as; Marty Lacker, Red West, Sonny West, Billy Smith, Jerry Schilling, Joe Esposito, Sandi Pichon, Sandie Kay Stevens, Kay Wheeler, Kathy Westmoreland, etc. they were (individually and collectively) integral parts of Elvis life – his successes – etc. onstage and off. To each I say “thank you”.

To Alanna Nash, Russ Howe, JAT, Paul Litcher, etc. thank you for your professional endeavors which include unique books – exhibits – websites – dvd – cd’s – etc. about Elvis Presley’s incredible life.

I listen to Elvis music routinely. So many of the songs I not only know the lyrics by heart but have listed to (literally) thousands of times. Some of these songs were the backdrop of my youth and even in my twilight years I always enjoy, and am impressed by, countless recordings/concerts/dvds/cds/tv appearances/movies that Elvis made in his three decades in the entertainment field.

There will never be another Elvis.

One of the primary lessons of Elvis’ life is that he was blessed with God given talents and he found the strength to pursue his talents, working extremely hard at his craft, and in many ways became an inspiration.

Take care and may God bless you.

Jeff Schrembs

http://www.ElvisCollector.info

http://www.ElvisCollectorWorldwide.freeforums.org

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by Jeff Schrembs on August 15, 2015 • Permalink

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Posted by Jeff Schrembs on August 15, 2015

https://theelvisexpert.com/2015/08/15/elvis-presley-week-august-2015/

38 years ago Elvis Aron Presley (sadly) died (i.e. August 16, 1977)

Some Days it seems like yesterday Elvis was making crowds scream in sold out concerts

Others it seems like…a lifetime ago.

Many, those who grew up with me and/or I gave life to, have wondered “why are – or how are – you an Elvis fan”? There is no big mystery to it. I liked his music. I applauded his charitable endeavors. I lived during his lifetime and saw him reach the greatest heights of fame and go through the depths of…pain (i.e. divorce, declining health, financial issues, lawsuits, etc.).

He was human. He had dreams. He had loves. He lost. He used his God given talents for three decades. He came from poverty and earned his family a quality of life they could never have dreamed of.

He didn’t care about color. He was loyal. He had a temper. He had charisma x1000000000000000000000000000. He was a spiritual man. He loved the voices of others in many musical genres.

The video I have put into this post, thanks YouTube, contains some of the most sincere and honest comments Elvis ever made before a live audience starting at (approximately) the 1 minute mark begining with “this is the probably the greatest honor I’ve ever had in my life”….

I say no more.

Jeff Schrembs

http://www.ElvisCollector.info

www. ElvisCollectorWorldwide.freeforums.org

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by Jeff Schrembs on July 31, 2015 • Permalink

Posted in Uncategorized

Tagged Al Wertheimer, eap, elvis, Elvis 1977, Elvis Aaron Presley, Elvis Aron Presley, Elvis Collector, Elvis died, elvis expert, Elvis Expert Jeff Schrembs, Elvis facts, Elvis historian, elvis presley expert, Elvis Presley facts, elvis presley historian

Posted by Jeff Schrembs on July 31, 2015

https://theelvisexpert.com/2015/07/31/38-years-ago-elvis-aron-presley-sadly-died-i-e-august-16-1977/

10 of my favorite candid quotes by Elvis Presley

She was the world to me. She always believed in me. When my career got going I spent too much time away from her. There wasn’t a mother who loved her son more. There wasn’t a son who loved his mother more. She is my everything.

Rock and roll music has been around for about five years. The people like it. It’s selling. I don’t know how much longer it will last because years ago when the charleston was popular if you went up to those people and said it wouldn’t last they would not have believed you.

I have hopes and dreams just like everyone else. One day I want to have a wife. A family. Because that’s what is really important in life…family.

I’ve got folks from Kentucky. I played the armory there in Louisville. The police warned me and thought the crowd would go wild or they thought I would go wild (laughter) so the police filmed me. The people there are real nice and some of the most beautiful country in the world is in Kentucky.

Colonel do you know if we got anything in the works? An 8 millimeter disney movie.

I’ve been in love. About 3 or 4 times but it never worked out. Even when your heart is broke or hurt you still have to be open to love and believe it will happen. That’s what I do.

)In response to a question about his favorite male and female actors) I like the films by James Dean, Marlon Brando. I like Kim Novak.

I cared too much it made me physically ill. I don’t think they purposely wanted to hurt my career but when I got the script it was the same thing. I played the same characters with different names and locations. The movies made money but it got to a point, and most of the songs weren’t that good, that it made me sick. Sick to my stomach. Just sick but I had to do it because I had contracts.

I like to read. From newspaper to magazines to books. As a child I read comic books. I read some of them over and over. I read different books. Probably the first book I ever saw was the bible. I carry around books on tour and I always have my bible with me.

I’ve been lucky. I don’t know why God blessed me. I think about that a lot. Some people think I’m some sorta different from everyday people. I cry. I have fears. I have hopes and dreams. I hurt when I see bad things happen to people especially children. When I went to the hospitals to visit with them I put on a smile for them. I give them an autograph or a teddy bear. But as soon as I leave the hospital I break down. I don’t show it to them because they are going through enough. I feel. The public doesn’t see that often but people close to me have seen it and a lot of times it’s just me with my feelings.

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by Jeff Schrembs on April 23, 2015 • Permalink

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Posted by Jeff Schrembs on April 23, 2015

https://theelvisexpert.com/2015/04/23/10-of-my-favorite-candid-quotes-by-elvis-presley/

Rare photographs in regards to Elvis Presley via www.ElvisCollector.info

From our website http://www.ElvisCollector.info here are some rare, unique, and cool photographs.

Please feel free to share via social media and thank you for viewing this blog.

Take care and may God bless you.

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by Jeff Schrembs on April 10, 2015 • Permalink

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Posted by Jeff Schrembs on April 10, 2015

https://theelvisexpert.com/2015/04/10/rare-photographs-in-regards-to-elvis-presley-via-www-elviscollector-info/

Elvis Presley’s “secret panel vehicle”

Courtesy of Fox News here is an interesting article about a vehicle Elvis supposedly used to venture out in public.

Legend has it that Elvis Presley wanted to be an undercover agent. Turns out, he may have been a good one.

Three-time NASCAR championship winning crew chief Ray Evernham recently visited Graceland to shoot a segment for his Velocity show AmeriCarna about the last car Elvis drove before he died, a 1973 Stutz Blackhawk III.

While he was there, the Graceland folks told him the vehicle he really wanted to see was tucked away in a warehouse out back. There, under a sheet, was a rusty old 1948 Chevrolet Panel Van that they say Elvis used to use to sneak out of Graceland when he wanted to avoid his fans and the press.

Apparently, the King used to put on a baseball cap and a jacket and slip out via a rear driveway when he wanted to go to the movies or shopping, and no one was ever the wiser. One time the truck even broke down on the side of the road and several members of the Graceland staff passed by with no idea that it was the boss that was stranded.

The Chevy has been hidden from public view since Elvis died, and is just the way he left it. Along with his famous 1955 pink Cadillac, it’s purportedly been in Graceland’s collection the longest.

Check out Fox Car Report’s interview with Ray Evernham to hear more about the Chevy, and his thoughts on his former teammate Jeff Gordon’s retirement from NASCAR. The second season of AmeriCarna kicks off on Tuesday, February 17th.