Fascination With '77 Elvis

[likethebike]

I've noticed on these boards that some fans have a strong attachment to Elvis in 1977. I wonder what is the reason for this fascination. While I admit that Elvis still had the voice and occasionally could give up in 1977 as on "How Great Thou Art" and "My Way", in general I find this to be one of Elvis' least interesting period. He did no recording sessions and his live shows were fall below the standards of even 1974.

Why is this time in Elvis' life such a strong pull for Elvis' fans. Is it because of the tragedy? Is it because we are always fascinated by endings? Or is it because many younger fans remember Elvis' death so deeply that its kind of a weird form of nostalgia. I'm 34 and I remember Elvis being all over the culture after his death in 1977 so, I can understand the nostalgia angle.

[rick]

I often ponder our and my obsession with '77. Sometimes it's an inspiration (in that I don't want to get hooked on these things or let myself go and die at 42), sometimes it's an inspiration in another way to see him still singing so well.
I agree, he seems more 'down to earth' someway in these final few months.
rick

[Albert]

When I was a young kiddie (around 8 years) I couldn't see if a picture of Elvis was from '72 or '77. My father was an Elvisfan, but mostlt from the 50's and 60s. So the albums with material from the 70s was very rare in our home. But he did have the 'In Concert' 2LP, TTWII LP and Moody Blue on tape.

Besides the albums he had only one book, written by members of the dutch fanclub who were invited to be part of the "In Concert" special. That book was released shortly after his death, so there was no part in it for heavy criticism. They were in awe about the concerts that they visited (Omaha, Rapid City, Indianapolis).

During a vacation I saw On Tour on television. And that special made me a huge fan from the 70s Elvis. For a boy seeing Elvis in those clothes, with the cape, he was like a living Superman, a man that ruled the world and would defeat any other artist or band in a fight (yep, young boys always fantasize about battles and fights).

During musiclessons our class was shown an Elvisspecial that used footage from "This Is Elvis". It was a special made by Veronice TV, named "The Story Of Elvis Presley". They used the entrance scene of "In Concert", Elvis walking with his bodyguards, with the big Sundial Suit, all in slow-motion, with Also Sprach Zarathustra on the background. That image was griffed on my memory from that point. It was clear for me from that very moment: Elvis was the coolest guy that has ever lived on this planet.

Imagine that it was the 1977 Elvis that made this huge impact!? Besides that cool footage, it was also the powerfull voice that he had on the "In Concert" LP: full, raw, opera style, dynamic, soulfull, etc. The music was great, Elvis was great. And the talking between the tracks also showed a guy that was not only an unbelievable performer, but also a nice and funny guy.

Also the idea that he died only a few weeks later made me -as a boy- like him more. You could almost see the pain that he had during Are You Lonesome Tonight and My Way, but he was still going strong... for us... Amazing....

So, I think that even 20 years later, that moment is still with me when I hear the '77 Elvis...

[Captain Elwood David]

BRAVO, ...... Albert, ............. BRAVO!!

That about sums it up.

---------------------------

1977 EP is probably the year that means the most to me as an Elvis fan on many levels.

76-77 -----> EP's voice was incredible.

A big part of it for me was, ........... after that year (1977), .......... things were never the same. Not really an ending, but rather, ........... a new beginning in some ways (for all fans, old & new alike).


- Capt. "EL."

[Lonniebealestreet]

Great question. (BTW you are a huge asset to any board you contribute to, LTB.)

I am just about to turn 30 myself, so my fascination with Elvis's final year does not have roots in any personal memories from that time. Had I been of age then, I can only imagine how much stronger the fascination would be for me...if that's possible. ;)

It is hard to explain. I like what has been said before about Elvis seeming especially friendly or down to earth during that period. There is something to that, and I think that latter description goes beyond the mere fact that he did not look perfect as he once did. Some review from '77 said that the show had more of a feeling of an informal gathering of friends than of a hard-edged rock concert. I think that is true and not necessarily a dig on the quality of the performance or Elvis's dedication, but reflective of how Elvis's personality was projected into the show.

There's so much more to it than that though.

Part of it for me is unquestionably that 1977 was Elvis's final year. That is not to say, however, that if Elvis had died later that I would find the 1977 shows less appealing. I don't think that's true at all. As Unchained said, as a rule Elvis was in much better condition vocally in '77 than in '76. I think he for the most part looked better then too. But I derive a great deal of satisfaction out of hearing or watching a great performance from '77, partly because it affirms for me that the public at large is just way off in their general idea of Elvis towards the end.

Why is that? Graceland/EPE/BMG's usual stance is to address as little of Elvis's final year as they can get away with, thinking that people will think so much less of Elvis, and that everything you hear about Elvis will be the fat jokes all over again, etc. However, not promoting Elvis in '77 has an even worse effect. The impression given is that all the rumors and all the bad things that have been said about the man during that period are in fact true, that things were so bad that they don't even want to talk about it. I've said this before, but Elvis in '77 is EPE's crazy uncle they keep tied up in the basement.

It is funny because they, the powers that be, have even themselves been influenced by that. When Spring Tours '77 was released (thank you, Ernst), I remember reading that "the producers were pleasantly surprised" by the quality of the material they had reviewed when assembling that album. Hello! :bash:

Although the setlist had become rather predictable by this time, I really like a lot of the material Elvis was singing in this period. And he did throw in some nice surprises here and there. Back to his voice...I think that it is true that in some ways his voice was not what it once was, but on the same taken I think he could also do other things with it that he could not do before, or not as well. So overall perhaps it was not better or worse, but just different. Granted there were some not so good shows, but when he was in top form vocally, those performances really knock my socks off. I still get chills every time I hear certain things. The really demanding songs were the ones in which he really shined.

I think that in his final performance, Elvis went out on such a nigh note. The Indianapolis show, like the entire year, would not amaze me any less it had turned out not to be his last. Release Me, I Can't Stop Loving You, and Bridge Over Troubled Water were all songs not in the usual repertoire at the time and were sung very well. Hurt never sounded better, and the crowd could not have been more amazed at the finale. He had that crowd in the palm of his hand, just like he had from the beginning. Fairytale was also fantastic and sounded to my ears a lot like the superb performance heard on ST77 (5/2 Chicago) but without the microphone problems at the end. If you've heard me say this before too, forgive me, but if that soundboard ever comes out, I would love for that release to be named You Won't Forget Me When I Go, which I think fits that show to a T.

I guess it is apparent from the things I have written that 1977 being Elvis's last year certainly does contribute to the fascination for me, but there is a lot more to the equation.

One reason I really love this board is that everyone here is very accepting and appreciative of everyone else's varying tastes and preferences. A lot of purists think Elvis did his best work at Sun, and then it was all downhill from there. That's fine if that's your opinion, but don't try to convince the rest of the people that their opinions are wrong and they shouldn't like what they like. I am not going to say that this person is a fan and that person is not one because of the things they say, but to me, as a fan (yes, I think I qualify ;) ), I can't imagine being a fan of Elvis and yet so quick to completely dismiss any aspect of his life or career. But that's just me and I don't want to pass judgement.

I could keep yammering on here and still not totally nail down what it is...I could tell you that generally speaking I would rather watch the CBS tapes than the Aloha special, but I really can't explain exactly why that is. That's why it's a great question, LTB!

[Captain Elwood David]

Originally posted by lonniebealestreet@Apr 21 2004, 04:21 PM
A lot of purists think Elvis did his best work at Sun, and then it was all downhill from there.  That's fine if that's your opinion, but don't try to convince the rest of the people that their opinions are wrong and they shouldn't like what they like

I can't imagine being a fan of Elvis and yet so quick to completely dismiss any aspect of his life or career ....
I, too, have grown very weary of constantly hearing the negative about 1977 ... and how that year is unworthy of admiring / liking / enjoying.

I happen to love EP's '77 output just as much as The Sun Years. So, shoot me.

Liking 1977 is almost sacrilegious to some. I find this way of thinking just plain snobbery.

I, for one, don't care, ...... don't agree, .......... and will always love it.

Like-minded fans is one just one of the reasons that I joined this board.

1977 ....... RAH, RAH!! :D


- Capt. "EL."

[peter]

I?m 18 and I love Elvis 70s! I don?t like his movie years from 60s. And his last year is fascinating (quality of his performance was lower than his 69 - 74 concerts, but still better than concerts of other bands - EXCLUDE Deep Purple - they made BEST LIVE album EVER for me!)!

[peter]

To Unchained:

Do you have these web adress: http://www.tcb-world.com/unchained/EP.htm?

If yes, I want to correct one error on your photogallery from 77... :)

Second picture from your 26th June is in fact from 2nd June 1977 (it was last show when he sung Trilogy - my favourite song!).

[kennyelvis]

Peter is right, the pix are taken by Georg Hill :P
And the second pix from the right in the "unknown section" are Vegas 76 :oops:
The pix in the midle are march 28th 1977
The first ;) i am almost 100% sure it is feb 20th 77, but i could be wrong.

[peter]

Completely agree with you Kenny!!!

:clap: :cheers:

[peter]

I have to agree that Elvis was better in 77 than on lot of shows in 76. But few concerts in 76 were one of best he ever did (his December tour and Vegas engagement!) and few shows on start of 76 are amazing. And few concerts from 77 are lowest points in his career! Omaha, Baltimore and few concerts on February tour! And last thing. In 1977 he didn?t get any really great show (as in early 70s)! Yes, Indianapolis is definately best concert of this year, but it?s still FAR worse than December 76 tour and Vegas 76! It?s my point of view!

:blink: (y) :clap:

[kennyelvis]

unchained,
The Vegas picture are from Elvis last vegas show december 12th 1976, the photo are taken by John Herman (y)

[Albert]

Imagine the way the world (and EPE) would look upon Elvis when "In Concert" wouldn't have been recorded? At first, I think it would have been better. But thinking again, the whole tragedy that has been registrated by CBS only strongers the whole image about Elvis....

But it's a **** shame that they had to film Elvis on the few dates from that tour where he actually sounded and looked worse. Just look at pictures, or hear to recordings from the Cincinatti and Indianapolis shows. He looked and sounded some much better....

But they policy of pretending Elvis died after The Aloha is just a slap in the face for the fans and Elvis. I mean, isn't it the job of EPE to maintain the history of Elvis and to to change it themselves? The press is a bad influence on peoples own ability to make up their own opinions. And EPE's policy only enforces the judgement of the press that Elvis had been washed out after the Aloha (what else would be the purpose from the EPE?).

Elvis did great show in '77 that should be remembered AND treasured. And the bad ones are just as (if not more) as the good shows.

[Lonniebealestreet]

In fact, I know the good outweigh the bad...

[Albert]

Originally posted by lonniebealestreet@Apr 21 2004, 06:51 PM
In fact, I know the good outweigh the bad...
tell that to EPE ;)

In fact, I think they don't even know where that line comes from :blink:

[Scatter]

Originally posted by lonniebealestreet@Apr 21 2004, 07:51 PM
In fact, I know the good outweigh the bad...
I agree. And what a great, underrated song that line is from. "For Ol' Times Sake" is one of my favourites.

There were some good shows in 1977. I do enjoy his voice in that year. And I agree he seemed more friendly - certainly than the fall of '74! :blink:

Perhaps the appeal of him in 1977 is that he seems 'human'. As opposed to the 'superhuman' we saw in previous years.

[Lonniebealestreet]

Originally posted by Albert+Apr 21 2004, 01:53 PM--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td>QUOTE (Albert &#064; Apr 21 2004, 01:53 PM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'><!--QuoteBegin-lonniebealestreet@Apr 21 2004, 06:51 PM
In fact, I know the good outweigh the bad...
tell that to EPE ;)

In fact, I think they don&#39;t even know where that line comes from :blink:[/b][/quote]
LOL&#33; :D Actually, I shouldn&#39;t be laughing... :mad: So true though.


Scatter, FOTS is a favorite of mine as well. Another from those sessions (with Elvis&#39;s vocal laid down 2 months later in Palm Springs) in that same vein, which I&#39;m also very fond of is Sweet Angeline. They are both so heartfelt.

Speaking of studio recordings, and getting back to 1977, what a pity it is that Elvis&#39;s voice was not captured in the studio during his final 8 and a half months--particularly if you believe as I do that he was in better vocal condition than the year before. It&#39;s interesting; the Jungle Room recordings all sound great to my ears, without any real discernable difference (to my ears anyway) in his voice between the February and October &#39;76 sessions. Then consider how vocally worn out he sounded during some of those concerts in between, especially in the summer. This would seem to indicate that his voice benefitted tremendously from having a little time off to recoup. So I&#39;d like to think that any studio performances from 1977 would probably have sounded as good if not better than the best shows from that year. If only...but sadly, he had no interest in recording then.

I know it doesn&#39;t accomplish anything to explore all the "what if&#39;s", but I spend some time doing that anyway. :P

[Albert]

I love many of the &#39;77 concerts. But studiorecordings of &#39;76 makes me kinda sad. Almost every song is about depressing subjects. There are only a few nice uptempo songs (like Moody Blue). But also the stories about his private life during the last full year shows us just a little bit of happiness and much about being lonely and depressed.

I really wish that he could have left that year with a more positive note. The whole suicide story would make completely sense for a whole lot of people. In Elvis view there might have been very, very few highlights in the near future. His circle of friends became much smaller, his relation with Ginger was bad, his health was declining rapidly, the "Elvis What Happened" book would be released soon, the whole lawsuit about the chain of racketball centers was also nothing to be pleased about and there are also many stories that Elvis had problems with becoming old.

So the knowledge of all that gives me a sad feeling when I&#39;m listening to Elvis in 1977. And we know that a happy Elvis onstage, doesn&#39;t mean that he&#39;s happy off-stage. After the fantastic Pittsburg New Year Eve concert friends of Elvis had organized a party. But what did Elvis after such a happy, upbeat concert? He went home and watched some movies in his room, all alone.............

[Jungleroom76]

Well Bobby....you beat me to the punch again&#33;&#33;&#33; :mad: ;)

Seriously, I have to agree completely with what Bobby said in terms of Elvis in 1977. 1977 was not the horrible year that EPE/Graceland would lead you to believe. Yes, Elvis may not have looked his best. Yes, Elvis had some health problems. And, yes, some of Elvis&#39; shows in 1977 were not as good as others. But based on how EPE/Graceland treats Elvis in 1977, one could easily get the impression that he was simply horrible during the final 8 months of his life. But a little research into the final 8 months of Elvis&#39; life yields a much different picture...

Elvis&#39; shows continued to sell out all across the country. In fact, during the last week of May, 1977, Elvis was the NUMBER ONE concert draw in the U.S. for his show in Philadelphia, beating out the contemporary artists of the day&#33; NUMBER ONE CONCERT DRAW...for a man supposedly in such horrible shape that the final 8 months of his life should be kept sealed, according to EPE&#33; That certainly doesn&#39;t sound quite right, does it?

I have seen literally hundreds of photos of Elvis taken in 1977, and yes he is heavier than his earlier days, there is no question about that. And yes, I have seen several photos where he doesn&#39;t look like he feels well. But there are so many more oustanding photos of Elvis taken during his shows in 1977 where, despite the additional weight he had put on, he looks like he is having such a good time performing for the fans&#33; Again...another myth assembled by EPE laid to rest&#33;

And perhaps the most telling sign of just how good Elvis still was in 1977...THE VOICE&#33;&#33;&#33; Listen to the high note that Elvis hits on CAN&#39;T HELP FALLING IN LOVE from his show in Largo, MD. 5/22/77. Or some of the dramatic numbers from "Elvis In Concert" like HURT, MY WAY, UNCHAINED MELODY or HOW GREAT THOU ART&#33;&#33; Check out the FTD release "Spring Tours &#39;77" for even more examples of how powerful Elvis&#39; voice was....songs like FAIRYTALE, HELP ME, and a rockin&#39; version of POLK SALAD ANNIE&#33;&#33; While Elvis may not have looked his best in 1977, there is no doubt that THE VOICE was still there&#33;&#33;

Elvis in 1977 is not the disaster that EPE/Graceland would like everyone to believe. And I think unraveling that mystery, and finding out just how good he still was during the final 8 months of his life is what makes Elvis in 1977 so fascinating&#33;&#33;

TCB&#33;
Mike

[Albert]

You&#39;re so true.

But you might change "But based on how EPE/Graceland treats Elvis in 1977, one could easily get the impression that he was simply horrible during the final 8 months of his life" into "the final 4 years".

It seems like EPE feel emberassed about the post-Aloha Elvis and want to everything about it to forget that period. They are nothing better than the gossipmagezines that talked trash about Elvis during the 70s.

[Jungleroom76]

Originally posted by Albert@Apr 26 2004, 08:22 AM
You&#39;re so true.

But you might change "But based on how EPE/Graceland treats Elvis in 1977, one could easily get the impression that he was simply horrible during the final 8 months of his life" into "the final 4 years".

It seems like EPE feel emberassed about the post-Aloha Elvis and want to everything about it to forget that period. They are nothing better than the gossipmagezines that talked trash about Elvis during the 70s.
I AM SO GLAD SOMEONE ELSE NOTICES THAT&#33;&#33;&#33;&#33;

You are 100% right Albert, and I should have posted that in my response, but since we were talking about 1977 specifically, that is why I limited my response to the last 8 months of Elvis&#39; life&#33;

But you are dead-on accurate with your assessment, and I have said this to many other fans I have talked to....that as far as EPE is concerned (so it seems), Elvis&#39; career was over after ALOHA&#33;&#33; In fact, we should be thankful that RCA has the final say in what is released (although EPE does have input, but since RCA owns the catalog, they have the final say in what is released on CD)...if EPE had their say, at least 1/2 of the FTD releases would have never seen the light of day&#33;&#33;&#33;

Thanks for bringing that up Albert...I am glad you are in my corner on this one&#33;&#33; (y)

TCB&#33;
Mike

[SouthPaw]

Originally posted by Albert@Apr 23 2004, 02:22 AM
But studiorecordings of &#39;76 makes me kinda sad. Almost every song is about depressing subjects. There are only a few nice uptempo songs (like Moody Blue). But also the stories about his private life during the last full year shows us just a little bit of happiness and much about being lonely and depressed.


I just was listening to my 76 cd&#39;s and was also amazed how every song from those recordings were very sad and depressing.

I agree almost prophetic how his mood seemed.

&#39;I am so Hurt&#39;

&#39;She thinks I still Care&#39;

[cameron]

Great question. (BTW you are a huge asset to any board you contribute to, LTB.)

I am just about to turn 30 myself, so my fascination with Elvis's final year does not have roots in any personal memories from that time. Had I been of age then, I can only imagine how much stronger the fascination would be for me...if that's possible. ;)

It is hard to explain. I like what has been said before about Elvis seeming especially friendly or down to earth during that period. There is something to that, and I think that latter description goes beyond the mere fact that he did not look perfect as he once did. Some review from '77 said that the show had more of a feeling of an informal gathering of friends than of a hard-edged rock concert. I think that is true and not necessarily a dig on the quality of the performance or Elvis's dedication, but reflective of how Elvis's personality was projected into the show.

There's so much more to it than that though.

Part of it for me is unquestionably that 1977 was Elvis's final year. That is not to say, however, that if Elvis had died later that I would find the 1977 shows less appealing. I don't think that's true at all. As Unchained said, as a rule Elvis was in much better condition vocally in '77 than in '76. I think he for the most part looked better then too. But I derive a great deal of satisfaction out of hearing or watching a great performance from '77, partly because it affirms for me that the public at large is just way off in their general idea of Elvis towards the end.
Why is that? Graceland/EPE/BMG's usual stance is to address as little of Elvis's final year as they can get away with, thinking that people will think so much less of Elvis, and that everything you hear about Elvis will be the fat jokes all over again, etc. However, not promoting Elvis in '77 has an even worse effect. The impression given is that all the rumors and all the bad things that have been said about the man during that period are in fact true, that things were so bad that they don't even want to talk about it. I've said this before, but Elvis in '77 is EPE's crazy uncle they keep tied up in the basement.

It is funny because they, the powers that be, have even themselves been influenced by that. When Spring Tours '77 was released (thank you, Ernst), I remember reading that "the producers were pleasantly surprised" by the quality of the material they had reviewed when assembling that album. Hello! :bash:

Although the setlist had become rather predictable by this time, I really like a lot of the material Elvis was singing in this period. And he did throw in some nice surprises here and there. Back to his voice...I think that it is true that in some ways his voice was not what it once was, but on the same taken I think he could also do other things with it that he could not do before, or not as well. So overall perhaps it was not better or worse, but just different. Granted there were some not so good shows, but when he was in top form vocally, those performances really knock my socks off. I still get chills every time I hear certain things. The really demanding songs were the ones in which he really shined.

I think that in his final performance, Elvis went out on such a nigh note. The Indianapolis show, like the entire year, would not amaze me any less it had turned out not to be his last. Release Me, I Can't Stop Loving You, and Bridge Over Troubled Water were all songs not in the usual repertoire at the time and were sung very well. Hurt never sounded better, and the crowd could not have been more amazed at the finale. He had that crowd in the palm of his hand, just like he had from the beginning. Fairytale was also fantastic and sounded to my ears a lot like the superb performance heard on ST77 (5/2 Chicago) but without the microphone problems at the end. If you've heard me say this before too, forgive me, but if that soundboard ever comes out, I would love for that release to be named You Won't Forget Me When I Go, which I think fits that show to a T.

I guess it is apparent from the things I have written that 1977 being Elvis's last year certainly does contribute to the fascination for me, but there is a lot more to the equation.

One reason I really love this board is that everyone here is very accepting and appreciative of everyone else's varying tastes and preferences. A lot of purists think Elvis did his best work at Sun, and then it was all downhill from there. That's fine if that's your opinion, but don't try to convince the rest of the people that their opinions are wrong and they shouldn't like what they like. I am not going to say that this person is a fan and that person is not one because of the things they say, but to me, as a fan (yes, I think I qualify ;) ), I can't imagine being a fan of Elvis and yet so quick to completely dismiss any aspect of his life or career. But that's just me and I don't want to pass judgement.

I could keep yammering on here and still not totally nail down what it is...I could tell you that generally speaking I would rather watch the CBS tapes than the Aloha special, but I really can't explain exactly why that is. That's why it's a great question, LTB!
It's nice to read some of the nice things said about Elvis from just a few years ago !(y)
And, 1977 is one of my favorite years .

[Unchained Melody]

It's nice to read some of the nice things said about Elvis from just a few years ago !(y)
And, 1977 is one of my favorite years .

I agree Cameron it is. I know even I sometimes tend to well I don't mean to put Elvis down but its hard not to when we talk about some of the things he chose to do, and things he could've done but didn;t do. But the fact is he did it his way and imo he did the best he could given his set of circumstances. 1977 is probably my favorite year for concerts, :blink:, I hope i don't get laughed off the forum for that one but its true. I was watching my Pieces Of My Life 3 DVD set anthology and it showed Hurt From the May 2nd 1977 show in Chicago and the ending was just INCREDIble with Elvis going on hi back flipping over and running around the stage sort of afterwards Just incredible stuff to see! His voice was just as passionate on those songs from 1977, listen to Where No One Stands Alone from Coming On Strong import CD, man thats good stuff!!!!

[cameron]

I agree Cameron it is. I know even I sometimes tend to well I don't mean to put Elvis down but its hard not to when we talk about some of the things he chose to do, and things he could've done but didn;t do. But the fact is he did it his way and imo he did the best he could given his set of circumstances. 1977 is probably my favorite year for concerts, :blink:, I hope i don't get laughed off the forum for that one but its true. I was watching my Pieces Of My Life 3 DVD set anthology and it showed Hurt From the May 2nd 1977 show in Chicago and the ending was just INCREDIble with Elvis going on hi back flipping over and running around the stage sort of afterwards Just incredible stuff to see! His voice was just as passionate on those songs from 1977, listen to Where No One Stands Alone from Coming On Strong import CD, man thats good stuff!!!!
That's why I've decided to stay out of those "discussions."
I've no idea what elvis "really did or didn't do." I didn't live his life. IF I had, there would have been some serious " house cleaning" long before it was started.

[Unchained Melody]

That's why I've decided to stay out of those "discussions."
I've no idea what elvis "really did or didn't do." I didn't live his life. IF I had, there would have been some serious " house cleaning" long before it was started.

Let me guess what your first step of action would be. Firing everyone in the Memphis Mafia...:lol:;);)

But back to the topic, I'm sure they tried to do "house Cleaning" as you put it like Linda Thompson for example but it comes down to Elvis himself. He was a grown man, not a child, they couldn't tell him to stop doing what he was doing. Like he said when Priscilla left Him, "I'm not gonna change for anybody"........:(

[cameron]

= Like he said when Priscilla left Him, "I'm not gonna change for anybody"........:(

I have to only assume you were there !:doh:
How presumptious we all are !

[TotallyInsane]

Cameron and Brad - We really need to get a life (or some sleep)!!! What in the world are we doing up at 2:30 in the morning???????

[Unchained Melody]

I have to only assume you were there !:doh:
How presumptious we all are !

Guess I should have put my source there on that one. Marty Lacker said he pulled up to Graceland right when Elvis found out she was really leaving, and Marty asked him if he was going to change and that was Elvis' answer. I don't see why Marty would lie about something like that, but beleive it or not your choice. Can be heard on the documentary All the kings men..

[Unchained Melody]

Cameron and Brad - We really need to get a life (or some sleep)!!! What in the world are we doing up at 2:30 in the morning???????

It's actually 10 minutes til 4 here where I'm at :lol:

Hey we're just devoted EP fans, can't beat that. It's actually nice to have some company on here at this hour, I'm usually roaming around all by myself throughout the night:blush:

[TotallyInsane]

It's actually 10 minutes til 4 here where I'm at :lol:

Hey we're just devoted EP fans, can't beat that. It's actually nice to have some company on here at this hour, I'm usually roaming around all by myself throughout the night:blush:

Glad we can help you out this morning!!! Can you call me at work around 2:30 and keep me awake til I get off???? :lmfao::lmfao::lmfao:

[Unchained Melody]

Glad we can help you out this morning!!! Can you call me at work around 2:30 and keep me awake til I get off???? :lmfao::lmfao::lmfao:

*laughs*

Absolutley Gail, anything to help ya out and keep you awake so you can make it through the day :lol:;);)

You go to work at 2:30 in the day I'm assumming :supriced:what time you get off late at night?

Sorry if i'm being nosey, just in a chatty mood and curious lol;)

[TotallyInsane]

*laughs*

Absolutley Gail, anything to help ya out and keep you awake so you can make it through the day :lol:;);)

You go to work at 2:30 in the day I'm assumming :supriced:what time you get off late at night?

Sorry if i'm being nosey, just in a chatty mood and curious lol;)

No, actually I go to work around 6:30 or 7:00 and get off around 3:30 or 4:00. Maybe I should go in at 5:00 and leave at 2:00!! :lmfao::lmfao:
Actually I think I'm gonna log on to work and do some work from here in a few minutes!!

[Unchained Melody]

No, actually I go to work around 6:30 or 7:00 and get off around 3:30 or 4:00. Maybe I should go in at 5:00 and leave at 2:00!! :lmfao::lmfao:
Actually I think I'm gonna log on to work and do some work from here in a few minutes!!

I would do that...makes you able to have time for yourself..or atleast maybe just a few minutes that is.;)

[cameron]

Cameron and Brad - We really need to get a life (or some sleep)!!! What in the world are we doing up at 2:30 in the morning???????
I lay down to watch a movie earlier , went to sleep.
Hate it when I do that ! Now, I'm awake, but getting sleepy again.

[cameron]

It's actually 10 minutes til 4 here where I'm at :lol:

Hey we're just devoted EP fans, can't beat that. It's actually nice to have some company on here at this hour, I'm usually roaming around all by myself throughout the night:blush:
You don't sleep or work? What are you taking ??

[TotallyInsane]

You don't sleep or work? What are you taking ??

:lmfao::lmfao::lmfao:

No Doz don't even keep me awake!!!

[Unchained Melody]

You don't sleep or work? What are you taking ??

*hehe* I mean cameron I do work lol, I meant I'm usually on here through the night after I get home (y)(y)

[cameron]

I'm about ready to sleep again. It's raining --again . That helps.

Brad; you're beginning to sound like Elvis with no sleep.
Better be careful , that makes an old man out of you .;)

[Unchained Melody]

I'm about ready to sleep again. It's raining --again . That helps.

Brad; you're beginning to sound like Elvis with no sleep.
Better be careful , that makes an old man out of you .;)

Your right Cameron :lol:(y) Ahh I have nothing better to do with my time as long as i'm content then i am fine :D

[TotallyInsane]

And, what could be better than blasting Elvis all night long!!! Either you have some great headphones or some deaf parents!!!! :lmfao::lmfao::lmfao:

[Unchained Melody]

And, what could be better than blasting Elvis all night long!!! Either you have some great headphones or some deaf parents!!!! :lmfao::lmfao::lmfao:

My parents bedroom is way on the other side of the house so I have that covered Gail...got polk Salad from May 26th 1977 Binghampton NY blasting through the speakers..Elvis never sounded better(y)

[rickb]

Some really good posts here.
I too am fascinated with Elvis '77 and the suggestion that he appeared `more human' and more friendly at that time ring a bell with me.
His concerts were no longer the karate-kicking spectaculars of a few years earlier - they were true `love-ins' with the fans. Elvis gave his scarves, has handshakes, his kisses and the fans gave him gifts.
He gave true emotion in his songs - his fans responded with love and applause.
These were no longer rock'n'roll concerts these were appearances by a living (albeit barely) legend and it seems that as he dragged his tired and abused body from one show to another that it was that two-way love affair that kept him going.
Elvis' nervous appearance before EIC, his little prayer, his humble (though jumbled) words to JD during Rapid City are examples of his very fragile but very human state.
He was no longer the strutting confident man of Aloha or EOT but we see much more of the man during this time, even if some of what we see is quite tragic.
Those huge notes on Hurt, the stark reality of My Way as opposed to the overrblown earlier versions, and the pure emotional brilliance of Unchained Melody make for some of the most startling musical moments of his career.
And Way Down from just a few months earlier proved he c ould still rock with the best
Rick

[Getlo]

His concerts were no longer the karate-kicking spectaculars of a few years earlier - they were true `love-ins' with the fans.

Most '77 shows were parodies. And sad ones at that. The love-in of which you speak was based on the legend of Elvis Presley rather than top-notch musical performances or any remaining charisma.

[Diane]

Speaking as a woman, watching the CBS special just made me love him more. It hurt to see him looking so ill but it brought our my protective side and I just wanted to hold and comfort him. I thought his voice was fantastic.

There isn't any phase of Elvis' life that I felt I wanted to distance the love I've always felt for him....I grew up with him, he was like family.

Diane

[cameron]

Some really good posts here.
I too am fascinated with Elvis '77 and the suggestion that he appeared `more human' and more friendly at that time ring a bell with me.
His concerts were no longer the karate-kicking spectaculars of a few years earlier - they were true `love-ins' with the fans. Elvis gave his scarves, has handshakes, his kisses and the fans gave him gifts.
He gave true emotion in his songs - his fans responded with love and applause.
These were no longer rock'n'roll concerts these were appearances by a living (albeit barely) legend and it seems that as he dragged his tired and abused body from one show to another that it was that two-way love affair that kept him going.
Elvis' nervous appearance before EIC, his little prayer, his humble (though jumbled) words to JD during Rapid City are examples of his very fragile but very human state.
He was no longer the strutting confident man of Aloha or EOT but we see much more of the man during this time, even if some of what we see is quite tragic.
Those huge notes on Hurt, the stark reality of My Way as opposed to the overrblown earlier versions, and the pure emotional brilliance of Unchained Melody make for some of the most startling musical moments of his career.
And Way Down from just a few months earlier proved he c ould still rock with the best
Rick
He "matured" in my eyes and he became more human and reachable.
It's nice to go back and see what others used to say! ;)
I like going back in the older threads to see how things have changed !

[jak]

I understand having compassion for Elvis during that rough time.I would hate to think we didnt have any.I just cant understand people feeling he was more human or mature.I dont know what they are seeing.He was a once vibrant man who was struggling and dying before youre eyes?How does that make him more mature or reachable?It was painfull to watch.There is no point in trying to derive some greater meaning out of what was happening.Elvis wasnt sending out any secret message sto the fans.There was nothing positive about this time period.It was a miserable time.Not only for him but for many of the fans who could see things plainly.

[jak]

Most '77 shows were parodies. And sad ones at that. The love-in of which you speak was based on the legend of Elvis Presley rather than top-notch musical performances or any remaining charisma.


This is exactly it.His fans loved him no matte rwhat.The reality of that time is a far cry from some people's perception.

[cameron]

I understand having compassion for Elvis during that rough time.I would hate to think we didnt have any.I just cant understand people feeling he was more human or mature.I dont know what they are seeing.He was a once vibrant man who was struggling and dying before youre eyes?How does that make him more mature or reachable?It was painfull to watch.There is no point in trying to derive some greater meaning out of what was happening.Elvis wasnt sending out any secret message sto the fans.There was nothing positive about this time period.It was a miserable time.Not only for him but for many of the fans who could see things plainly.
Maybe, some day we can all be loved unconditionally--by someone !
Those that "feel it and saw it" can't explain it, IMO.
We're all different and I'm glad I'm the way I am !

[Diane]

I can't say I felt he was more nature or reachable, in fact I felt I was losing him. It was quite obvious to me that there something seriously wrong and that he wouldn't be around much longer.

Diane

[jak]

Maybe, some day we can all be loved unconditionally--by someone !
Those that "feel it and saw it" can't explain it, IMO.
We're all different and I'm glad I'm the way I am !

Unconditional love is just fine.However there is no need to distort things.He was more mature and reachable at that time?The facts are the exact opposite.Elvis was less reachable than he had ever been and dont mention his maturity.

[Diane]

That was the whole problem at the time. He wasn't reachable, the addiction had gone on far too long.

Diane

[cameron]

Unconditional love is just fine.However there is no need to distort things.He was more mature and reachable at that time?The facts are the exact opposite.Elvis was less reachable than he had ever been and dont mention his maturity.

Probably it is more accurate to say---his voice matured .
Reachable? Only by some that "saw" what was happening !
While NOT physically "reachable , there are better ways !

[utmom2008]

:lmfao::lmfao::lmfao:

No Doz don't even keep me awake!!!

That may very well may be the understatement of the decade. Watching A 6 ft.tall TV screen with Elvis doing "Patch It Up" doesn't keep you awake either.:lmfao::lmfao: And..when you are asleep it does NO good for anyone to stand over you and scream "what is your password" either!:lmfao::lmfao::lmfao::lmfao:

[TotallyInsane]

That may very well may be the understatement of the decade. Watching A 6 ft.tall TV screen with Elvis doing "Patch It Up" doesn't keep you awake either.:lmfao::lmfao: And..when you are asleep it does NO good for anyone to stand over you and scream "what is your password" either!:lmfao::lmfao::lmfao::lmfao:

:lmfao::lmfao::lmfao::lmfao::lmfao::lmfao:

[rocknroll]

Speaking as a woman, watching the CBS special just made me love him more. It hurt to see him looking so ill but it brought our my protective side and I just wanted to hold and comfort him. I thought his voice was fantastic.

There isn't any phase of Elvis' life that I felt I wanted to distance the love I've always felt for him....I grew up with him, he was like family.

Diane

Wow, I think I am the only person who thinks his voice in 1977 was not good at all. It sounded frail, strained and with no tonal quality. It just sounded thin to me compared to most of the decade (1970 to 1975). I can't think of a single song that was not done better at an earlier time period, including My Way, Hurt and How Great Thou Art.

[SweetCaroline]

Those last two years were definitely not my favorite ELVIS years. :(
My favorite years would be 56, 57, 68, 69 70, 71
But.......I will never love ELVIS less...EVER...

[utmom2008]

I understand having compassion for Elvis during that rough time.I would hate to think we didnt have any.I just cant understand people feeling he was more human or mature.I dont know what they are seeing.He was a once vibrant man who was struggling and dying before youre eyes?How does that make him more mature or reachable?It was painfull to watch.There is no point in trying to derive some greater meaning out of what was happening.Elvis wasnt sending out any secret message sto the fans.There was nothing positive about this time period.It was a miserable time.Not only for him but for many of the fans who could see things plainly.

Great post Jak. For me, EIC is STILL painful to watch. I stood in the raquetball court in April and watched EIC on screen at one end, while AFH was showing on the other end. To me....it was very emotional. Yes...I saw him as suffering and stretching to be a shell of the performer he once was. To me...he was no more "reachable" than he had been on the night when he autographed a picture for "Bohega". His singing voice may have been strong, but his speaking voice was halting and weak. In October of 77 when we all saw EIC I was heartbroken. It still fascinates me as to how it all came to such a tragic end. As bad as it hurts me to watch it..I always wonder what those around him think now when they see it, 30 years later. There was nothing about that show that was warm and appealing. I almost felt like a voyeur...watching something that maybe I shouldn't be seeing. :sad::sad::sad:

[midnight]

So true Rosanne. I find it so difficult to watch EIC or even to look at photos of Elvis during the last two years of his life. I almost think of Elvis at that time as being a different individual than the one I grew up loving and listening to. I don`t really know how to explain it. I watch him at the end of his life at that concert and I feel like I am at the edge of my seat wanting to help him out in some way! It is very weird! My gosh he was just 42 and I am 42 and I think he was so young!! How did it get to this!!! It is for me very heartbreaking to watch. A man who should of been in the prime of his life was now at the end of his life. I often wonder what did he think when he saw himself that way!! God bless him!!!

[utmom2008]

My parents bedroom is way on the other side of the house so I have that covered Gail...got polk Salad from May 26th 1977 Binghampton NY blasting through the speakers..Elvis never sounded better(y)

OK Brad...this is totally off-topic, BUT....how many times an hour do you change avatars?:hmm::hmm::lmfao::lmfao:

[KPM]

I have always felt extreme sadness when watching EIC:blush:
I guess some would say I wear my heart on my sleeve.
I see a man who was no longer mentally or physically healthy- whos life style, and heritage had caught up to. A man on the verge of implosion.
I see the ghost of the man-before he actually died.
But even then there are glimpses of his greatness-the charisma was still there-the pull at the heart.

[Elvis_Lady_1984]

I have felt a sense of pain during his last years. Unchained Melody, for example, showed such raw emotion of a tired man who still wanted to give the fans everything. His voice was very powerful because he sang the songs with such intensity and feeling. He became more diverse. He could sing almost anything and make it sound good. I will alway love Elvis.

[4THEHEART]

his health condition is one thing but the maturity Elvis reached as an entertainer and a human being is another..I feel he was kinda at ease with the coming end,which is not an end actually for an ever expanding spirit(for the ones who believe the continuity of the existance,not meaning anything religious btw..) but a chance for understanding,getting all the why's one by one,not judging anymore, accepting things the way they are and maybe an urge to expand by leaving the phyisical barriers behind even while he was still alive.. yes I too believe he was more reachable and open and even more natural and as if he was saying "hell with the image, here I am you can read me "..what I see in his tired eyes at the end was meant much more than any E-expert's words to me..direct from the man himself and I trust my third eye when it's about contacting a living soul..as for charisma..well, IMO charisma is something you born with and it's nothing you can lose in time,since it's not physical..
the sadness I feel is more for us and the parody is how we still struggle to figure things out about the man..

[rickb]

I used the word `compassion' in a post a few weeks ago and got shot down in flames but I say it here again as I believe that those with a fascination about Elvis '77 certainly look at him with compassion

[cameron]

I used the word `compassion' in a post a few weeks ago and got shot down in flames but I say it here again as I believe that those with a fascination about Elvis '77 certainly look at him with compassion
Compassion is good (y)

[Diane]

The world could use more of it towards it's large family.

Diane

[utmom2008]

I see a man who was no longer mentally or physically healthy- whos life style, and heritage had caught up to. A man on the verge of implosion.
I see the ghost of the man-before he actually died.
But even then there are glimpses of his greatness-the charisma was still there-the pull at the heart.

Very eloquent Ken....I love the way you expressed yourself here. I think some of the younger fans have a tough time remembering how limited we were back then as far as knowing how the celebs were doing on a day-to-day basis. The last time that I saw Elvis was Dec. 28th, 1976 in Dallas. Yes..he was heavier than what I was hoping for, but he seemed to be in great spirits that night and I think that show is remembered favorably, isn't it? I didn't see Elvis again until October, 1977. I can't begin to describe how I felt watching that show. I sat in a dark room with tears coming down my face the entire time. Yes...I was sad that I would never see him again. I was devastated however, for Elvis. I cried for him, not me. I could not understand how he became that sick and that sad, and no one seemed to know it. I felt almost guilty..that he had gotten in that shape and none of us were there to "save" him so to speak. I had loved him all of my life, he had been a Prince in my little girl dreams, and now he was gone. I was devastated.....:'(:'(


I used the word `compassion' in a post a few weeks ago and got shot down in flames but I say it here again as I believe that those with a fascination about Elvis '77 certainly look at him with compassion

I think compassion is an emotion that could be used for Elvis during this period of his life. For the life of me I can't understand the fans that refer to this time period as "pure Elvis" and exciting and such as that. It baffles me.:doh::doh::doh:

[jak]

I have always felt extreme sadness when watching EIC:blush:
I guess some would say I wear my heart on my sleeve.
I see a man who was no longer mentally or physically healthy- whos life style, and heritage had caught up to. A man on the verge of implosion.
I see the ghost of the man-before he actually died.
But even then there are glimpses of his greatness-the charisma was still there-the pull at the heart.

Very nicely put and youre right.You still caught glimpses of his greatness.

[jak]

"For the life of me I can't understand the fans that refer to this time period as "pure Elvis" and exciting and such as that. It baffles me.
"

You took the words right out of my mouth.I dont get it either.I dont know if they are trying to convince themselves of that or what the deal is.

[Unchained Melody]

OK Brad...this is totally off-topic, BUT....how many times an hour do you change avatars?:hmm::hmm::lmfao::lmfao:

When I find one I like more than the one before ;)

[Unchained Melody]

I have always felt extreme sadness when watching EIC:blush:
I guess some would say I wear my heart on my sleeve.
I see a man who was no longer mentally or physically healthy- whos life style, and heritage had caught up to. A man on the verge of implosion.
I see the ghost of the man-before he actually died.
But even then there are glimpses of his greatness-the charisma was still there-the pull at the heart.

Ken that was very well, and beautifully put my friend hands down to you !!:notworthy

The greatness-charisma never the left the man, ever and when watching CBS Special we see a man who was unhappy with his life and career and worried about the future but he still poured his heart out every performance and kept trying to please his fans...and he did just that I believe.

[Cryogenic]

His concerts were no longer the karate-kicking spectaculars of a few years earlier - they were true `love-ins' with the fans.

Most '77 shows were parodies. And sad ones at that. The love-in of which you speak was based on the legend of Elvis Presley rather than top-notch musical performances or any remaining charisma.

BOTH these perspectives are valid and mutually inclusive, in my opinion.

On the other hand . . .

It is sad that you, Getlo, an individual who professes to hate judgementalism and anyone putting down another person's tastes at the FECC board, should continue to post in an acrimonious, condescending and derisive manner when it comes to the 77 Elvis and his fans.


I understand having compassion for Elvis during that rough time.I would hate to think we didnt have any.I just cant understand people feeling he was more human or mature.I dont know what they are seeing.He was a once vibrant man who was struggling and dying before youre eyes?How does that make him more mature or reachable?It was painfull to watch.There is no point in trying to derive some greater meaning out of what was happening.Elvis wasnt sending out any secret message sto the fans.There was nothing positive about this time period.It was a miserable time.Not only for him but for many of the fans who could see things plainly.

Erm, OK. Maybe you'd like to ditch the late 70's on-stage avatar, then? Afterall, Elvis is bloated and overweight there and no longer the "vibrant man" of yesteryear. No? Tick tick, tick tock . . .


I think compassion is an emotion that could be used for Elvis during this period of his life. For the life of me I can't understand the fans that refer to this time period as "pure Elvis" and exciting and such as that. It baffles me.:doh::doh::doh:

1) Compassion is not an "emotion", which may account for some of your ignorance.

2) Continue to be baffled, while the rest of us get it and revel in it.


Some really good posts here.
I too am fascinated with Elvis '77 and the suggestion that he appeared `more human' and more friendly at that time ring a bell with me.
His concerts were no longer the karate-kicking spectaculars of a few years earlier - they were true `love-ins' with the fans. Elvis gave his scarves, has handshakes, his kisses and the fans gave him gifts.
He gave true emotion in his songs - his fans responded with love and applause.
These were no longer rock'n'roll concerts these were appearances by a living (albeit barely) legend and it seems that as he dragged his tired and abused body from one show to another that it was that two-way love affair that kept him going.
Elvis' nervous appearance before EIC, his little prayer, his humble (though jumbled) words to JD during Rapid City are examples of his very fragile but very human state.
He was no longer the strutting confident man of Aloha or EOT but we see much more of the man during this time, even if some of what we see is quite tragic.
Those huge notes on Hurt, the stark reality of My Way as opposed to the overrblown earlier versions, and the pure emotional brilliance of Unchained Melody make for some of the most startling musical moments of his career.
And Way Down from just a few months earlier proved he c ould still rock with the best
Rick

Beautifully said, Rick. This post is way up there with the calibre of those that started this thread. Thank you.

TO SUM UP:

Trashing another person and putting down people's tastes in art are hallmarks of small, inferior minds. While you delight in questioning and accosting other fans and their fandom, you're actually missing so much. To the rest, my gratitude and respect.

[cameron]

One of the reasons I brougt this thread back up. To remind everyone of their thoughts and opinions, just a short 4 years ago. ;)

You pretty much covered it all, Cryogenic.
TYVM to you and rickb (y)

[MojoElvis]

Maybe Elvis wasn't at his best in looks in 1977 but Vocally it seemed like he was reaching a new level. In my opinion even the June 21'st shows version of, See See Rider was the best.

[Diane]

I felt that in some concerts Elvis' voice in the last two years was fantastic but in others he did sound ill and weak.

I do agree with Jak, the last two years aren't ones I would describe as "pure Elvis". To me that was between '69 and '73 as far as the on stage performances were.

Diane

[jak]

"Erm, OK. Maybe you'd like to ditch the late 70's on-stage avatar, then? Afterall, Elvis is bloated and overweight there and no longer the "vibrant man" of yesteryear. No? Tick tick, tick tock "

Erm. My avatar is none of youre business.It's used because I like it.Give me a break.

[utmom2008]

1) Compassion is not an "emotion", which may account for some of your ignorance.

Oh..to be young AND brilliant again.;) What accounts for you thinking your avatar pic is attractive?;):lol:



"Erm, OK. Maybe you'd like to ditch the late 70's on-stage avatar, then? Afterall, Elvis is bloated and overweight there and no longer the "vibrant man" of yesteryear. No? Tick tick, tick tock "

Erm. My avatar is none of youre business.It's used because I like it.Give me a break.

Good point Jak. I can't see that he is in any position to throw avatar stones.:lmfao::lmfao:

[SweetCaroline]

Very eloquent Ken....I love the way you expressed yourself here. I think some of the younger fans have a tough time remembering how limited we were back then as far as knowing how the celebs were doing on a day-to-day basis. The last time that I saw Elvis was Dec. 28th, 1976 in Dallas. Yes..he was heavier than what I was hoping for, but he seemed to be in great spirits that night and I think that show is remembered favorably, isn't it? I didn't see Elvis again until October, 1977. I can't begin to describe how I felt watching that show. I sat in a dark room with tears coming down my face the entire time. Yes...I was sad that I would never see him again. I was devastated however, for Elvis. I cried for him, not me. I could not understand how he became that sick and that sad, and no one seemed to know it. I felt almost guilty..that he had gotten in that shape and none of us were there to "save" him so to speak. I had loved him all of my life, he had been a Prince in my little girl dreams, and now he was gone. I was devastated.....:'(:'(


The last Elvis concert I saw was April 24, 1976 at the San Diego Sports Arena......other than that.....the words of your post could be mine...My feelings were exactly the same, Rosanne.
:( :( :(

[TotallyInsane]

[QUOTE=utmom2008;221042]Very eloquent Ken....I love the way you expressed yourself here. I think some of the younger fans have a tough time remembering how limited we were back then as far as knowing how the celebs were doing on a day-to-day basis. The last time that I saw Elvis was Dec. 28th, 1976 in Dallas. Yes..he was heavier than what I was hoping for, but he seemed to be in great spirits that night and I think that show is remembered favorably, isn't it? I didn't see Elvis again until October, 1977. I can't begin to describe how I felt watching that show. I sat in a dark room with tears coming down my face the entire time. Yes...I was sad that I would never see him again. I was devastated however, for Elvis. I cried for him, not me. I could not understand how he became that sick and that sad, and no one seemed to know it. I felt almost guilty..that he had gotten in that shape and none of us were there to "save" him so to speak. I had loved him all of my life, he had been a Prince in my little girl dreams, and now he was gone. I was devastated.....:'(:'([/UNQUOTE]


The last Elvis concert I saw was April 24, 1976 at the San Diego Sports Arena......other than that.....the words of your post could be mine...My feelings were exactly the same, Rosanne.
:( :( :(


And, mine too!!!!!

[KPM]

[QUOTE=utmom2008;221042]Very eloquent Ken....I love the way you expressed yourself here. I think some of the younger fans have a tough time remembering how limited we were back then as far as knowing how the celebs were doing on a day-to-day basis. The last time that I saw Elvis was Dec. 28th, 1976 in Dallas. Yes..he was heavier than what I was hoping for, but he seemed to be in great spirits that night and I think that show is remembered favorably, isn't it? I didn't see Elvis again until October, 1977. I can't begin to describe how I felt watching that show. I sat in a dark room with tears coming down my face the entire time. Yes...I was sad that I would never see him again. I was devastated however, for Elvis. I cried for him, not me. I could not understand how he became that sick and that sad, and no one seemed to know it. I felt almost guilty..that he had gotten in that shape and none of us were there to "save" him so to speak. I had loved him all of my life, he had been a Prince in my little girl dreams, and now he was gone. I was devastated.....:'(:'([/UNQUOTE]



I can understand-for me he was the father or big brother who I imagined could have solved all my problems. I have to say he never solved any- but his music touched me when I needed to be touched and helped me to get thru many days. It still does.

[Jungleroom76]

The greatness-charisma never the left the man, ever and when watching CBS Special we see a man who was unhappy with his life and career and worried about the future but he still poured his heart out every performance and kept trying to please his fans...and he did just that I believe.

WELL SAID MY FRIEND!!! (y)

Clearly the 1977 special will always create a diverse array of opinions, but I must agree with you pal that while Elvis was undeniably ill, the voice was still present and the love he had for the fans was there...from the moment he stepped out onto that stage, until the moment he walked off!!!

TCB!
Mike

[Jungleroom76]

LET'S PUT AN END TO THE ARGUING RIGHT NOW BEFORE IT GOES ANY FURTHER!!! :nono:

Please refrain from the personal attacks or unnecessary comments such as "ignorance". Let's keep this thread ON TOPIC...if the personal attacks continue, ALL PARTIES INVOLVED will be issued infraction points!!!

Let us have a clean and civil discussion....if anyone feels they cannot abide by this simple request, then please leave the discussion!

THIS IS THE ONE AND ONLY WARNING!!!

TCB!
Mike

[jak]

Oh..to be young AND brilliant again.;) What accounts for you thinking your avatar pic is attractive?;):lol:




Good point Jak. I can't see that he is in any position to throw avatar stones.:lmfao::lmfao:

Personally I like my avatar.Some people are just to touchy and take everything to far.Just because I can look at his final years rationally, doesnt mean I ignore them.I enjoy all facets of his career.You dont have to blindly worship to appreciatte.I listen to lots of material post 75.I just got around 300 originall 8x10's from 76-77.Some of you lucky ones will be getting some copies from me BTW.Dont mistake my honest comments for any more than that.Im not condemming the last couple of years.I jus tlike being truthfull.

[Diane]

Nothing wrong with that Jak. Loving blindly is not loving the total person.

Diane

[Unchained Melody]

Personally I like my avatar.Some people are just to touchy and take everything to far.Just because I can look at his final years rationally, doesnt mean I ignore them.I enjoy all facets of his career.You dont have to blindly worship to appreciatte.I listen to lots of material post 75.I just got around 300 originall 8x10's from 76-77.Some of you lucky ones will be getting some copies from me BTW.Dont mistake my honest comments for any more than that.Im not condemming the last couple of years.I jus tlike being truthfull.

Love it how you tell it the way it is or the way you see it. That's the best way, btw, photo's from 1976-1977 are my favorite bud:lol: ;):D(y)

[cameron]

his health condition is one thing but the maturity Elvis reached as an entertainer and a human being is another..I feel he was kinda at ease with the coming end,which is not an end actually for an ever expanding spirit(for the ones who believe the continuity of the existance,not meaning anything religious btw..) but a chance for understanding,getting all the why's one by one,not judging anymore, accepting things the way they are and maybe an urge to expand by leaving the phyisical barriers behind even while he was still alive.. yes I too believe he was more reachable and open and even more natural and as if he was saying "hell with the image, here I am you can read me "..what I see in his tired eyes at the end was meant much more than any E-expert's words to me..direct from the man himself and I trust my third eye when it's about contacting a living soul..as for charisma..well, IMO charisma is something you born with and it's nothing you can lose in time,since it's not physical..the sadness I feel is more for us and the parody is how we still struggle to figure things out about the man..
Excellent description, IMO. For those that can see .
I believe he finally accepted himself , just as he was.
No more "image", just the man.Take it or leave it !

[Unchained Melody]

Excellent description, IMO. For those that can see .
I believe he finally accepted himself , just as he was.
No more "image", just the man.Take it or leave it !

Agreed Cameron. Elvis knew he was overweight but he accepted his appearence now and so did the fans.

[cameron]

Originally Posted by cameron
Excellent description, IMO. For those that can see .
I believe he finally accepted himself , just as he was.
No more "image", just the man.Take it or leave it !


Agreed Cameron. Elvis knew he was overweight but he accepted his appearence now and so did the fans.
NOT what I saw or meant by a long shot ! :rolleyes:

[Unchained Melody]

NOT what I saw or meant by a long shot ! :rolleyes:

Ok what did you mean I'm confused.
You said and I quote "he finally accepted himself , just as he was."
What exactly was that, he accepted himself as a man who was dying and hooked on a lethal mix of prescription drugs, and a man that was becoming a very sad parody of himself.
Guess we are going to have to agree to disagree....

[cameron]

Ok what did you mean I'm confused.
You said and I quote "he finally accepted himself , just as he was."
What exactly was that, he accepted himself as a man who was dying and hooked on a lethal mix of prescription drugs, and a man that was becoming a very sad parody of himself.
Guess we are going to have to agree to disagree....
Some choose to look at only the outer, superficail.
Others see things differently.
I can't help but think you're a much older,jaded fan than you claim.
No "young, new fan" would even bother if all they saw is what you claim,IMO!

Yes, we will have to agree to disagree on many levels !

[Unchained Melody]

Some choose to look at only the outer, superficail. ]

I choose to look at Elvis as a person who had issues,and can accept the truth. i dont want to pretend like it was all money and happiness when we know theres so much more to it.




I can't help but think you're a much older,jaded fan than you claim.
No "young, new fan" would even bother if all they saw is what you claim,IMO!
Well i'm glad you think that, don't bother me abit. But i don't think its right for you to throw accusations like that around buddy when you are always the one complaining about people getting personal with one another you just never seem to give me a break....so we have a different view on the things in Elvis' life, why can't you just leave it at that instead of saying stuff like that I never did nothing to you.:closedeye And one more thing just who are you to say what I see or saw. as a matter of fact im proud as heck to be an elvis fan and through the good and bad I can sit down and play the latest import or ftd and get in a better mood. But like Mike said no more fighting and im stopping right here.
To get back on topic think my next film i watch will be Omaha 77!!

[cameron]

I choose to look at Elvis as a person who had issues,and can accept the truth. i dont want to pretend like it was all money and happiness when we know theres so much more to it.


Well i'm glad you think that, don't bother me abit. But i don't think its right for you to throw accusations like that around buddy when you are always the one complaining about people getting personal with one another you just never seem to give me a break....so we have a different view on the things in Elvis' life, why can't you just leave it at that instead of saying stuff like that I never did nothing to you.:closedeye And one more thing just who are you to say what I see or saw. as a matter of fact im proud as heck to be an elvis fan and through the good and bad I can sit down and play the latest import or ftd and get in a better mood. But like Mike said no more fighting and im stopping right here.
To get back on topic think my next film i watch will be Omaha 77!!
As I've always stated; I never believed money would ever buy happiness. :blink: Not sure where that came from.

Not sure why you consider it an accusation either ;:blink:that I believe you to be older .Didn't consider that an "attack", could be a compliment, depending on how one takes it. :doh:

To get "on topic" ,I've seen all Elvis movies already and read most all the books. I like to talk to "real people." TYVM.

[Unchained Melody]

Not sure why you consider it an accusation either ;:blink:that I believe you to be older .Didn't consider that an "attack", could be a compliment, depending on how one takes it. :doh:


Then I will glady take it as a compliement then.

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

Great post Jak. For me, EIC is STILL painful to watch. I stood in the raquetball court in April and watched EIC on screen at one end, while AFH was showing on the other end. To me....it was very emotional. Yes...I saw him as suffering and stretching to be a shell of the performer he once was. To me...he was no more "reachable" than he had been on the night when he autographed a picture for "Bohega". His singing voice may have been strong, but his speaking voice was halting and weak. In October of 77 when we all saw EIC I was heartbroken. It still fascinates me as to how it all came to such a tragic end. As bad as it hurts me to watch it..I always wonder what those around him think now when they see it, 30 years later. There was nothing about that show that was warm and appealing. I almost felt like a voyeur...watching something that maybe I shouldn't be seeing. :sad::sad::sad:

Great post, sums up how I feel for the most part. I'm a 39 year old man but every time I watch EIC I get a tear in my eye. It seems incredible that a man who only 4 and a half years previously did the Aloha show could be the same man standing in front of that crowd in Omaha and Rapid city.

I don't believe for one moment that Elvis wasn't self aware of his circumstances, he knew exactly what his condition was! His fans were partly aware but not fully. So for Elvis to climb those stairs to record those shows took incredible humility. When he says he can sing but not talk is one of the saddest things I have ever heard from Elvis.

To not feel empathy for a man who stood in front of those camera's laid bare is to be a very cold person indeed.

Elvis knew he wasn't at the top of his game, yet he did his best when clearly he should have been in hospital. You could say Elvis needed the money and needed to tour, however he didn't have to record a show when he was so ill. Was he aware, if only on a subconscious level that time wasn't on his side.. Who knows, one thing is for certain, if EIC came out on DVD repackaged and re-edited I would buy it in a nano second.

[ehollier]

Great post, sums up how I feel for the most part. I'm a 39 year old man but every time I watch EIC I get a tear in my eye. It seems incredible that a man who only 4 and a half years previously did the Aloha show could be the same man standing in front of that crowd in Omaha and Rapid city.

I don't believe for one moment that Elvis wasn't self aware of his circumstances, he knew exactly what his condition was! His fans were partly aware but not fully. So for Elvis to climb those stairs to record those shows took incredible humility. When he says he can sing but not talk is one of the saddest things I have ever heard from Elvis.

To not feel empathy for a man who stood in front of those camera's laid bare is to be a very cold person indeed.

Elvis knew he wasn't at the top of his game, yet he did his best when clearly he should have been in hospital. You could say Elvis needed the money and needed to tour, however he didn't have to record a show when he was so ill. Was he aware, if only on a subconscious level that time wasn't on his side.. Who knows, one thing is for certain, if EIC came out on DVD repackaged and re-edited I would buy it in a nano second.

Gosh, I remember when EIC aired on television. I was 10 year old, but I remember. Since “re-establishing my love affair with Elvis” now that I have a daughter who is nuts over him and subsequently, spending so much time here learning and reading all of the volumes committed to re-telling his life story, I have continue have a difficult time even REALLY looking and watching and listening to Elvis after his Aloha performance.

Like Rosanne said, I can’t help but feel the same way -- "It all has come to this?"; such a talent and charismatic man who died an almost public death almost from the inside out. With all of the thousands of pictures of Elvis that this site contains, I do not look at any of the photos after Aloha and very select few between 1971 and 1972. Does this make me a horrible person because I refuse to even look at these drastic changes that took place after 1970????

Rosanne hit the nail on the head when she said she feels like a voyeur watching EIC - like you are watching something you really shouldn't be watching. When I see a video somewhere of that performance, I immediately just get away from it. I just can't seem to stomach watching any of it!!! I read just yesterday that EPE has tried to keep his 'image' alive by not using pictures after Aloha since his appearance and performances starting becoming so erratic.

I know many have seen Elvis after the Aloha performance, like Rosanne and Gail, and they say that his performances were great, but it breaks my heart to see the changes, rapid and unrelenting, as he declined after 1972. We can debate the reasons, how it could have been stopped, and who was responsible, but in the end, the reality is that by the time 1977 and EIC came to be, he was beyond saving.

I can't believe that Elvis himself, with his innate sixth sense, couldn't know this either.

[cameron]

It's only been "after I grew up" that I've discovered so much about Elvis' private life. No, not the "women and drugs." I was already aware of that.
All the money everyone cost him. People just kept expecting "Elvis will get me out of this" and he just kept giving ! Not one offered to pay him back or "help him out." Dr Nick was the only one I'm aware of, and that's because Vernon made him after Elvis died. Then of course, the guardian stepped in for Lisa after Vernon died and stopped the BS with Parker.

IMO, Elvis was well aware of what "he looked like." But, when you need money ,one doesn't stay home from work just because you're sick or look like hell . Not even the richer ones.

[utmom2008]

I don't believe for one moment that Elvis wasn't self aware of his circumstances, he knew exactly what his condition was! His fans were partly aware but not fully. So for Elvis to climb those stairs to record those shows took incredible humility. When he says he can sing but not talk is one of the saddest things I have ever heard from Elvis.

To not feel empathy for a man who stood in front of those camera's laid bare is to be a very cold person indeed.

Elvis knew he wasn't at the top of his game, yet he did his best when clearly he should have been in hospital. You could say Elvis needed the money and needed to tour, however he didn't have to record a show when he was so ill. Was he aware, if only on a subconscious level that time wasn't on his side.. Who knows, one thing is for certain, if EIC came out on DVD repackaged and re-edited I would buy it in a nano second.

I love your thinking on this Matt. I have to agree...incredible humility is an understatement. Elvis was no dummy..he was aware that he wasn't the same 170 lb. Greek God that prowled and controlled the stage just a few short years back. He laid his soul out there for the fans to love just the same. In some ways EIC may be the bravest thing he ever did......
This video is absolutely stunning, the visuals are great. IMO the saddest moment I have ever witnessed from these June shows is the look that he has in his eyes at 2:12. It's such a look of honesty and sadness ..it has always tugged at me.:sad:

XIWWQpZOYA8

[midnight]

Wow, that gets to me every time I see it! There really are no words to describe the raw emotion in that clip. I also see the sadness in his eyes. He had every thing, yet in the end all he wanted was some one to truly love him!!! I believe he knew his true love was his fans. That is why he gave his all for us! In some strange way this concert always seemed to me a way of saying "Thank You for sticking by me". That is why i find it so sad and powerful at the same time. God Bless you Elvis, I hope you have found your happiness.....

[Unchained Melody]

Great post, sums up how I feel for the most part. I'm a 39 year old man but every time I watch EIC I get a tear in my eye. It seems incredible that a man who only 4 and a half years previously did the Aloha show could be the same man standing in front of that crowd in Omaha and Rapid city.

I don't believe for one moment that Elvis wasn't self aware of his circumstances, he knew exactly what his condition was! His fans were partly aware but not fully. So for Elvis to climb those stairs to record those shows took incredible humility. When he says he can sing but not talk is one of the saddest things I have ever heard from Elvis.

To not feel empathy for a man who stood in front of those camera's laid bare is to be a very cold person indeed.

Elvis knew he wasn't at the top of his game, yet he did his best when clearly he should have been in hospital. You could say Elvis needed the money and needed to tour, however he didn't have to record a show when he was so ill. Was he aware, if only on a subconscious level that time wasn't on his side.. Who knows, one thing is for certain, if EIC came out on DVD repackaged and re-edited I would buy it in a nano second.

Great post Matt I agree with you on all levels. I wouldn't for one second think about not getting it if it were to be released officially, to me atleast, that has to be released, for epe, by shutting out the 74-77 years is like shutting elvis out completley. I think Elvis felt obligated to keep touring, think he felt where some many relied on him he didnt want to let no one down, and its sad when he shouldve been thinking of himself and getting better.

[Donut]

I wouldn´t buy it if EPE released it some day. I have a copy and I think I´ve seen it 2 times and that skeeping songs. To me he sounds weak, looks really ill and it´s clear he was suffering so couldn´t enjoy it even if I tried.

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

Its definitely difficult to watch but given the proper treatment and editing this show could be made more palatable. personally I don't think EIC will ever see the light of day in a deluxe format. For one the money just isn't there both in terms of getting it edited and released and secondly there is a smaller market out there for this material than TTWII or Aloha.

[rickb]

Great post Matt
Rick

[Unchained Melody]

Its definitely difficult to watch but given the proper treatment and editing this show could be made more palatable. personally I don't think EIC will ever see the light of day in a deluxe format. For one the money just isn't there both in terms of getting it edited and released and secondly there is a smaller market out there for this material than TTWII or Aloha.

That will be very sad if it never sees the light of day, guess our copies from the import world will have to due. But its ashame if they never let it see the light of day!!(n)

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

That will be very sad if it never sees the light of day, guess our copies from the import world will have to due. But its ashame if they never let it see the light of day!!(n)

I agree, unfortunately the effect of such a DVD on the public and fans alike make this a non starter from EPE, they just wouldn't make this material available..

[Unchained Melody]

I agree, unfortunately the effect of such a DVD on the public and fans alike make this a non starter from EPE, they just wouldn't make this material available..

Guess the only hope we have of that happening would be if FTD started to release DVD's. Doubtful, but you never know.

[KPM]

Its definitely difficult to watch but given the proper treatment and editing this show could be made more palatable. personally I don't think EIC will ever see the light of day in a deluxe format. For one the money just isn't there both in terms of getting it edited and released and secondly there is a smaller market out there for this material than TTWII or Aloha.
When Turner tackled TTWII the marketing was so poor it has cast a shadow over all future projects where any money is involved. TTWII was the cream of the crop in Elvis live video-the SE was a well done remix and edit of the film-but made little money so if the "cream of the crop" failed in Turners eyes (for what ever reason) EIC will never be worked on to release. IMO
I would much rather see them tackle EOT-with a quality re-edit and plenty of extras.

[utmom2008]

IMO
I would much rather see them tackle EOT-with a quality re-edit and plenty of extras.

I agree with you Ken..if they can't give us both then please give us at least one.:blush::blush:

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

When Turner tackled TTWII the marketing was so poor it has cast a shadow over all future projects where any money is involved. TTWII was the cream of the crop in Elvis live video-the SE was a well done remix and edit of the film-but made little money so if the "cream of the crop" failed in Turners eyes (for what ever reason) EIC will never be worked on to release. IMO
I would much rather see them tackle EOT-with a quality re-edit and plenty of extras.

I agree Ken, the fact that Turner screened TTWII on Turner Classic Movies prior to release beggar's belief! EIC belongs to EPE so that puts the nail in the coffin as far as a release goes.

EOT is IMO a far superior quality film with many hours of footage of what could be considered Elvis in his prime, if marketed correctly this could recoup any costs plus make profit for whoever takes the risk.

[Jungleroom76]

for epe, by shutting out the 74-77 years is like shutting elvis out completley.

ABSOLUTELY CORRECT BUDDY!!! (y)

That has been my argument for many years....if a new fan were to go with what EPE tells fans, Elvis basically died after the ALOHA special! There is VERY little acknowledgement of the music that Elvis made after the ALOHA special, although thanks to the FTD label, that is being rectified to some degree today!! But for many years, when it was just the mainstream RCA releases being put out, you could be guaranteed that a track from post-Aloha would ALMOST NEVER be released!!! :angry:

It is gratifying for me personally that FTD is releasing some of the stuff from the poist-Aloha period! I know it is not all great stuff....but there is just too much good music, both studio wise and concert wise, to be ignored!!! (y)

TCB!
Mike

[Jungleroom76]

Its definitely difficult to watch but given the proper treatment and editing this show could be made more palatable. personally I don't think EIC will ever see the light of day in a deluxe format. For one the money just isn't there both in terms of getting it edited and released and secondly there is a smaller market out there for this material than TTWII or Aloha.

EXCELLENT POINTS J.J.!!! (y)

In terms of telling the entire Elvis Presley story, I think it's imperative that EIC is released in some form. Personally, I would love a deluxe edition with all of the outtakes, but I agree with you that there probably isn't enough of a fan base to warrant such a release that would make it cost effective... :'(

Regardless, I hope that SOME form of EIC is released for the fans who truly want it... (y)

TCB!
Mike

[Jungleroom76]

When Turner tackled TTWII the marketing was so poor it has cast a shadow over all future projects where any money is involved. TTWII was the cream of the crop in Elvis live video-the SE was a well done remix and edit of the film-but made little money so if the "cream of the crop" failed in Turners eyes (for what ever reason) EIC will never be worked on to release. IMO
I would much rather see them tackle EOT-with a quality re-edit and plenty of extras.

EXCELLENT POINTS KEN!!! (y)

I have stood by my opinion for quite a while now that the reason we haven't been given an official DVD release of EOT is because of the lack of profits generated from TTWII-SE....which honestly, I think is the fault of Turner right from the get-go!!

First they promised the fans in attendance at ELVIS WEEK 2000 (I was among them) that when the DVD came out for TTII-SE, it would include an hour of bonus material....that was NEVER delivered upon because of copyright issues. STRIKE ONE!!! :blink:

Second, someone made the stupid mistake of airing TTWII-SE on television before releasing the DVD!!! STRIKE TWO!!! :angry:

Third, because of their glaring errors, they have withheld EOT from the fans because they are afraid of a similiar catastrophe if EOT is released on DVD!!! STRIKE THREE!!!! :cursing:

Hopefully, someone will look at the things that went wrong with the TTWII-SE DVD release and rectify those things so that EOT will be a more profitable release for Turner! In the meantime....we continue to wait... :'(

TCB!
Mike

[cameron]

Originally posted by lonniebealestreet@Apr 21 2004, 04:21 PM
A lot of purists think Elvis did his best work at Sun, and then it was all downhill from there.&nbsp; That's fine if that's your opinion, but don't try to convince the rest of the people that their opinions are wrong and they shouldn't like what they like

I can't imagine being a fan of Elvis and yet so quick to completely dismiss any aspect of his life or career ....


I, too, have grown very weary of constantly hearing the negative about 1977 ... and how that year is unworthy of admiring / liking / enjoying.

I happen to love EP's '77 output just as much as The Sun Years. So, shoot me.

Liking 1977 is almost sacrilegious to some. I find this way of thinking just plain snobbery.

I, for one, don't care, ...... don't agree, .......... and will always love it.
1977 ....... RAH, RAH!! :D


- Capt. "EL."

All of the above ! :lol::lol:(y)

[Unchained Melody]

EXCELLENT POINTS J.J.!!! (y)

In terms of telling the entire Elvis Presley story, I think it's imperative that EIC is released in some form. Personally, I would love a deluxe edition with all of the outtakes, but I agree with you that there probably isn't enough of a fan base to warrant such a release that would make it cost effective... :'(

Regardless, I hope that SOME form of EIC is released for the fans who truly want it... (y)

TCB!
Mike

Thats my point exactly Mike. EIC is part of the Elvis Presley story, infact, a really big part. And its sad they just toss it aside!

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

Thats my point exactly Mike. EIC is part of the Elvis Presley story, infact, a really big part. And its sad they just toss it aside!


The problem we have Brad, EPE and certain elements of the fandom want the Elvis story to end on a high note (Aloha 1973) and so gloss over the bits that are inconvenient :nono: the problem when the whole story is told and discussed/seen is that people start wagging their finger and saying your not a true fan, that you dwell on the negative. So you are in one heck of a pickle :blink::lol::lmfao:

Mmm that film Love Me Tender is sure a great film.... Elvis looks so handsome :lol:

[Jungleroom76]

The problem we have Brad, EPE and certain elements of the fandom want the Elvis story to end on a high note (Aloha 1973) and so gloss over the bits that are inconvenient :nono: the problem when the whole story is told and discussed/seen is that people start wagging their finger and saying your not a true fan, that you dwell on the negative. So you are in one heck of a pickle :blink::lol::lmfao:

Mmm that film Love Me Tender is sure a great film.... Elvis looks so handsome :lol:

Well said J.J.!!! (y)

And if EPE doesn't want to have to worry about the inconvenient parts of Elvis' career, then they might as well say that his career ended when he went into the Army!!! The period from 1954-1958 is really the only part of his career that doesn't have any truly inconvenient parts in it... :blink:

TCB!
Mike

[cameron]

Who knows what Sillerman will do now. This was the way they felt and their reasons several years ago. For me, I was never against EIC being made available to the public. It won't change a thing for me, either way.

http://simplycilla.com/mp/simplycilla/articles/Priscilla%20Prelsey%20Articles%20-%20Eternal%20Revenue,%20Los%20Angeles%20Times.htm

One thing Chinese and American pop fans alike won't see for a long time, apparently, is footage of the tragic, bloated Elvis of his final years. Although all of Elvis' other TV specials--including the 1968 NBC-TV "comeback" program--are available on home video, the estate has not released the CBS-TV concert special that was taped just weeks before Elvis' death.

Committee members reject the notion that they are trying to rewrite history by not re-releasing unflattering footage. They say they are simply trying to put Elvis in proper perspective. "One of the goals is to humanize Elvis.... make sure people remember him as a human being, not as a caricature," Rascoff says. "That's hard enough to do when you are dealing with [a generation] that actually saw Elvis. But 20 years from now, it will be even harder, because those people won't have had that opportunity. To me, that's the greatest challenge."

Adds Schilling: "We don't want to try to change history. At the same time, we don't want history to be concentrating on a small portion of his career that may not be as illustrious as the rest of the career. We don't want the image of Elvis in future history to be that he was an overweight guy eating a cheeseburger in a white jumpsuit. We want it to be the Elvis as the world knew him for the first 20 years of his career."

[Unchained Melody]

Like I said, if they were going to ever release it officially there best bet would to do it on the FTD Label.

But we have so much other stuff to look forward to being released, like the long overdue deluxe set's of TTWII and EOT...I'm sure if they ever do put the Special out there it will be after all this stuff has been released..

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

Who knows what Sillerman will do now. This was the way they felt and their reasons several years ago. For me, I was never against EIC being made available to the public. It won't change a thing for me, either way.

http://simplycilla.com/mp/simplycilla/articles/Priscilla%20Prelsey%20Articles%20-%20Eternal%20Revenue,%20Los%20Angeles%20Times.htm

One thing Chinese and American pop fans alike won't see for a long time, apparently, is footage of the tragic, bloated Elvis of his final years. Although all of Elvis' other TV specials--including the 1968 NBC-TV "comeback" program--are available on home video, the estate has not released the CBS-TV concert special that was taped just weeks before Elvis' death.

Committee members reject the notion that they are trying to rewrite history by not re-releasing unflattering footage. They say they are simply trying to put Elvis in proper perspective. "One of the goals is to humanize Elvis.... make sure people remember him as a human being, not as a caricature," Rascoff says. "That's hard enough to do when you are dealing with [a generation] that actually saw Elvis. But 20 years from now, it will be even harder, because those people won't have had that opportunity. To me, that's the greatest challenge."

Adds Schilling: "We don't want to try to change history. At the same time, we don't want history to be concentrating on a small portion of his career that may not be as illustrious as the rest of the career. We don't want the image of Elvis in future history to be that he was an overweight guy eating a cheeseburger in a white jumpsuit. We want it to be the Elvis as the world knew him for the first 20 years of his career."

Which ever way EPE or Shilling spin it, they are the ones who are in denial! It is the caricature portrayed bysome of the hideous Tribute Artists who have IMO done immeasurable damage to the Image of Elvis Presley. The reality, however sad does not come close to this Gross portrayal which continues. EPE hide away material that the general public doesn't get to see, so their Image is a concoction of camping it up Tribute Artists and unflattering pictures the tabloids publish and hey presto we have the general publics perception of Elvis in the 70's. EPE should release the material for better or worse and let the public put a human face to a man whose decline should be given sympathy and understanding rather than being mocked.

If Sillerman can make this happen, I will have respect for this man having the balls to give the fans what they want.

[Unchained Melody]

EPE should release the material for better or worse and let the public put a human face to a man whose decline should be given sympathy and understanding rather than being mocked.

If Sillerman can make this happen, I will have respect for this man having the balls to give the fans what they want.

Amen to that Matt very well put !!

Jerry said We want it to be the Elvis as the world knew him for the first 20 years of his career." So I'm guessing he's talking about from 1954-1974. Well Jerry, Elvis' work from 74-77 can not just be ignored. Hello, the man practically killed himself working and touring so much in the last two years of his life, the least thing we can do is treat that work with class and dignity so his fan's can enjoy what he left for us!

[cameron]

Like I said; it's not a big deal to me. I saw it and have most of it when it was shown on TV. Blame anyone you like.
IMO, it's not the ETA's, but the ones that contributed to "poking fun" at Elvis 30 years ago and all the trash books ever since. But, if it makes some feel better to blame EPE, so be it. I'm sure they're not losing any sleep over it .

[ehollier]

Adds Schilling: "We don't want to try to change history. At the same time, we don't want history to be concentrating on a small portion of his career that may not be as illustrious as the rest of the career. We don't want the image of Elvis in future history to be that he was an overweight guy eating a cheeseburger in a white jumpsuit. We want it to be the Elvis as the world knew him for the first 20 years of his career."[/B]

I re-itterated in my post at #97 of EPE's desire to keep Elvis' image of that pre 1973. Look at this http://www.tcb-world.com/gallery/files/1/8/7/0/guitarman8_943783.jpg

AND JUST A MERE 9 YEARS LATER................

http://www.tcb-world.com/gallery/files/8/5/5/50_983718.jpg


JUST HEARTBREAKING!!!!!!!!!!!!

[cameron]

Doesn't change who he was or his music to me.
Just the outer appearance of a very sick man, still tryiing to please everyone.

[Getlo]

AND JUST A MERE 9 YEARS LATER................

Eight, actually ...

[ehollier]

Eight, actually ...

1968 minus 1977 is actually 9!

[Getlo]

1968 minus 1977 is actually 9!

My mistake. The pic looked like a '76 one to me ...

[ehollier]

My mistake. The pic looked like a '76 one to me ...


How can you tell???? I just pulled it from the gallery from 1977, but, as I said in my post #97, I don't really look around in those pictures for those last years.

[Diane]

I do look around for those pictures in the gallery of Elvis' last two years because some are where he looks happy in spite of the weight and looking ill and that cheers me up. It tells me that those years weren't all bad for him.

I see no reason why EPE should be ashamed of him as it was part of who he was.

Diane

[Getlo]

How can you tell???? I just pulled it from the gallery from 1977, but, as I said in my post #97, I don't really look around in those pictures for those last years.

I only glanced at it for a second when I made the first comment. All I gleened was the King of Spades suit ... but I could tell immediately it was not a '74 pic.

I've been looking at on stage pics for over 30 years. You can tell it's a 1977 pic by the haircut, and the generally awful look to his face. There are subtle - and not so subtle - differences between '76 and '77.

[ehollier]

I do look around for those pictures in the gallery of Elvis' last two years because some are where he looks happy in spite of the weight and looking ill and that cheers me up. It tells me that those years weren't all bad for him.

I see no reason why EPE should be ashamed of him as it was part of who he was.Diane

Diane, its not shame. It just breaks my heart!!!! But his voice was AWESOME!!!!

[Diane]

It breaks my heart too Liz, that's why I search for the special smile that tells me some part of his life was still good for him to the end.

Sorry if you thought I was putting you down, I wasnt it's EPE.

Diane

[utmom2008]

How can you tell???? I just pulled it from the gallery from 1977, but, as I said in my post #97, I don't really look around in those pictures for those last years.

The absolute worst pics of 77 come from February 12, 1977.:'((n)

[4THEHEART]

his life was a light so bright that none of those disliked pictures can hold a shadow on it..epe's fight of image is just an empty work,then again this not new news...truth is always beyond eyesights..

[Tony Trout]

The absolute worst pics of 77 come from February 12, 1977.:'((n)


Gotta agree with ya, Rosie.....

[Merry]

his life was a light so bright that none of those disliked pictures can hold a shadow on it..epe's fight of image is just an empty work,then again this not new news...truth is always beyond eyesights..


Hugs, 4TheHeart.

Kimmi

[Unchained Melody]

But his voice was AWESOME!!!!

There were alot of times though in the last year 1977 Elvis couldn't hold the high notes, or was just to lazy to, and alot of times his voice sounds off pitch. But I still consider it one of my favorite concert years, not because it was his last year, I simply enjoy the shows, simple as that!

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

There were alot of times though in the last year 1977 Elvis couldn't hold the high notes, or was just to lazy to, and alot of times his voice sounds off pitch. But I still consider it one of my favorite concert years, not because it was his last year, I simply enjoy the shows, simple as that!

I agree he struggled with the high notes at certain times... not sure it was due to laziness though? Perhaps due to medication?

[KPM]

I agree he struggled with the high notes at certain times... not sure it was due to laziness though? Perhaps due to medication?
I think his breath control came and went for whatever reason and at times he could get there-but not all the time.

[Unchained Melody]

I think his breath control came and went for whatever reason and at times he could get there-but not all the time.

Could that have been for his excessive weight gain perhaps?

:hmm:

Listen to Moody Blue on Febuary 21st 1977...he was having a real difficult time there controlling his breathing.

[TotallyInsane]

Could that have been for his excessive weight gain perhaps?

:hmm:

Listen to Moody Blue on Febuary 21st 1977...he was having a real difficult time there controlling his breathing.

No, I think it was when he would see me and Rosie it would just take his breath away!!!!!:lmfao::lmfao::lmfao:

[Unchained Melody]

No, I think it was when he would see me and Rosie it would just take his breath away!!!!!:lmfao::lmfao::lmfao:

:lmfao:Rightttt ;)

[KPM]

The breath control-I think it was a combination of his weight and the prescriptions. Plus the toll of his life was catching up.