Sillerman - The Verdict So far....

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

2004/2005 saw Sillerman entered into a definitive agreement to acquire a majority interest in the assets comprising the estate of Elvis Presley.... So what happened?

We are 5, yes five years down the road and very little if anything has transpired. There were promises of great things to come, theme parks, casino's and a large investment into the Presley empire.

I'll admit I was excited when the news first broke, I believed, as did many others, that things would be run differently than had happened under EPE. I realise that we have been through a major recession and big business's would almost certainly make cuts in spending, but for nothing to happen is just bewildering.

Sillerman must be kicking himself constantly, he hasn't made any investment so what income does he actually make? The lack of revenue from the Presley venture surely means he cannot sell his assets as a growing concern.

So what next? As a fan I'm concerned that there is no press releases for future events or promotional activity (UK or Internet)

What's your verdict, how do you see the future with Sillerman?

[debtdbruno]

I can't answer either of those really.

Hard to decide with the world economics being as they have for the last year or so.............

I would like to think more could have been done, but truthfully, would it make any difference who was in 'control'?

It comes back to one of the other threads.......'how relevent is Elvis today?'. Music today IMO is cr*p.......but the youth of today have a totally different beat they dance to, when someone has been dead over 32 years it's hard to encourage new generations to his music. I don't envy him the task......


This is a common complaint amongst Elvis fans, that EPE spends too much time on promoting his Image, not his music. Unfortunately Elvis' image is the thing which sells globally the most $$$$$$

[KPM]

Please be advised I meant to vote-NO-but somehow voted Yes-brain freeze I guess. So the one vote for Sillerman was a mistake.
I think Sillerman jumped into something he really understood very little about.
Elvis sold.... when he was alive, in his down periods like the mid 60s and after his death.........nearly every year since he died the income he generates goes up.
But its a very complicated problem marketing a dead singer-especially when you do not have control of his recordings.
Sillerman has had 4 years ( I will give him the last year because of the unprecedented world downturn) and as Matt pointed out-he has little to show for it in the vast plans he announced-the latest corporate report from Sillermans group states the Elvis end of his empire still is earning good profits-so I guess that is good news.
I think I have said this before but if I was him and EPE I would try to acquire the Elvis catalogue in whole from Sony/RCA then you control the image completely.
But I am sure Sony/RCA will never sell that catalogue to anyone-they make too much profit from it.

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

Please be advised I meant to vote-NO-but somehow voted Yes-brain freeze I guess. So the one vote for Sillerman was a mistake.


I have deleted your vote for Sillerman and added it to the no vote, however your name will not show up.

[sasha]

I didn't vote.Not that I don't care; just have no idea.
From Dec.2009 Commercial Appeal :

http://m.commercialappeal.com/news/2009/dec/27/graceland-set-for-redesign/

The man who controls Graceland says he's returning to Memphis next month to re-map the future of the tourist mecca.In the second or third week of January, Robert Sillerman said last week, "We are having an all-hands meeting in Memphis.''

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

Unfortunately Sillerman has made all these promises before, so not sure I believe him...

[KPM]

I have deleted your vote for Sillerman and added it to the no vote, however your name will not show up.
Thank you Matt-I appreciate it.(y)

[Jungleroom76]

Sadly, I have to also say NO!!! While I was encouraged by the recent news that Sillerman was planning a big meeting in Memphis in January to discuss his plans for the land he has purchased around Graceland, nothing ever came of that as far as I know. I haven't even seen any news about the meeting being held....so once again the promise of the plans moving forward have been dashed... (n)

Perhaps the economy has something to do with it, perhaps he isn't experienced enough in knowing exactly what the Elvis fans would most like to see in a Graceland renovation (of course, he could just ask...) so he is doing more research before moving forward with a plan...whatever the case, SAY SOMETHING!!!! Very rarely is there any press coming from Graceland about anything Sillerman is doing...definitely NOT a good sign in my opinion!!! (n)

TCB!
Mike

[Brian]

2004/2005 saw Sillerman entered into a definitive agreement to acquire a majority interest in the assets comprising the estate of Elvis Presley.... So what happened?

We are 5, yes five years down the road and very little if anything has transpired. There were promises of great things to come, theme parks, casino's and a large investment into the Presley empire.

I'll admit I was excited when the news first broke, I believed, as did many others, that things would be run differently than had happened under EPE. I realise that we have been through a major recession and big business's would almost certainly make cuts in spending, but for nothing to happen is just bewildering.

Sillerman must be kicking himself constantly, he hasn't made any investment so what income does he actually make? The lack of revenue from the Presley venture surely means he cannot sell his assets as a growing concern.

So what next? As a fan I'm concerned that there is no press releases for future events or promotional activity (UK or Internet)

What's your verdict, how do you see the future with Sillerman?


I think the expectations that a lot fans had for Robert Sillerman were just too high.
When the announcement was made it seemed everybody was saying Sillerman was going to do great things and this was the best thing that had ever happened to Graceland/Elvis the problem was it was basically all hype because these things were said before he had done a single thing.
Just because Robert Sillerman is a Billionaire and has had some successful business ventures doesn't mean he knows what to do with Elvis Presley.

The one thing i've hated about EPE marketing of Elvis is that they've marketed him as a cartoon character and Sillerman has the same strategy so that's a disappointment for me but my expectactions were a lot lower than a lot of other fans.

[Brian]

I think I have said this before but if I was him and EPE I would try to acquire the Elvis catalogue in whole from Sony/RCA then you control the image completely.
But I am sure Sony/RCA will never sell that catalogue to anyone-they make too much profit from it.

What makes you think if EPE acquired Elvis' catalogue that they would manage it any differently or better than what Sony/RCA has done?
I think if they did acquire the music it would be the same Christmas, Gospel, Greatest hits, love song compilations over and over and over again with the same songs on them.

[Diane]

I voted No not because I understand what is entailed in EPE but because I never felt Sillerman ever knew what Elvis was all about enough to promote his image faithfully.

Diane

[ForeverTheKing]

I don't know a lot about this...to be honest I think that the most important thing for me if I go to Graceland will be visitins Elvis places and grave...feeling his spirit there, in the place he really loved.
I don't care the many things they want to put around Graceland just to earn money :)

[presley31]

I voted no cause Sillerman just leads to empty promises and if he wanted to really give elvis the respect he deserves than he would change somethings like the tacky gifts and stop the ETA from being at graceland.

[KPM]

What makes you think if EPE acquired Elvis' catalogue that they would manage it any differently or better than what Sony/RCA has done?
I think if they did acquire the music it would be the same Christmas, Gospel, Greatest hits, love song compilations over and over and over again with the same songs on them.
I was speaking of "total control" over the Elvis image-you can not even come close to doing that without the music-the music is the most important part of that image.
I am not debating how they would use the music or how they would market it-its hard to come up with new material-when the artist is dead, its hard to not "repackage and re-release-when there is no new songs in the vault.
But it would be nice to see it all in one companys hands-where a strategy for image building would include the music.

As it is now-they have little or no sayso in the matter of releases, and compilations, they must play off of Sonys lead when music is involved.
Also Sony makes a ton of money off of Elvis releases-they keep virtually all except songwriters royalties-so that alone would be a logical reason to acquire the music. Lets face it-Elvis was the music.
I do not see EPE as marketing Elvis like a cartoon character-but you are entitled to your opinion.
There will always be people who are critical-of any move made-you can not please everyone I guess....some say do remixes, others say NO, some say do duets, others say NO, some say release EOT-yet TTWII SE did not sell well, some say no repackages-only new projects -how with no new material, some say don't sell Elvis plates or towels etc...yet they sell like crazy-for every person disappointed-one is happy.................pretty much says it all.

[Elizasong]

Not sure how I'd vote. I think Sillerman took a very huge investment and then the economy tanked. I think they should fix up the outside of Heartbreak Hotel. It looks like a prison. I think they should renovate the Circle G and open that up for tourists. Do they have a tour bus that takes fans around Memphis to see the key places of Elvis history?

[rickb]

there seem to have been many grand announcements and grand (not really needed)plans but little has transpired

[Brian]

I was speaking of "total control" over the Elvis image-you can not even come close to doing that without the music-the music is the most important part of that image.
I am not debating how they would use the music or how they would market it-its hard to come up with new material-when the artist is dead, its hard to not "repackage and re-release-when there is no new songs in the vault.
But it would be nice to see it all in one companys hands-where a strategy for image building would include the music.

As it is now-they have little or no sayso in the matter of releases, and compilations, they must play off of Sonys lead when music is involved.
Also Sony makes a ton of money off of Elvis releases-they keep virtually all except songwriters royalties-so that alone would be a logical reason to acquire the music. Lets face it-Elvis was the music.
I do not see EPE as marketing Elvis like a cartoon character-but you are entitled to your opinion.
There will always be people who are critical-of any move made-you can not please everyone I guess....some say do remixes, others say NO, some say do duets, others say NO, some say release EOT-yet TTWII SE did not sell well, some say no repackages-only new projects -how with no new material, some say don't sell Elvis plates or towels etc...yet they sell like crazy-for every person disappointed-one is happy.................pretty much says it all.

I'm not sure that EPE doesn't have any control or influence over the music that's released.
Sony doesn't have to do anything EPE says but they've done several projects together.
An example would be when EPE did the Elvis by the Presley's documentary Sony released a soundtrack CD to the special.
The Vegas Cirque show that Sillerman has set up will have a soundtrack album released by Sony.
If EPE ever came out with that Elvis Anthology project I bet Sony would release a CD to coincide with the project.

As for Sony I know exactly how Elvis catalouge should be managed.

[JDD]

I"ve cast no vote at all . Too many roadblocks in the way so far. He got controlling interest, started buying up land. All those plans have to be approved, Some of the Memphis folk weren't thrilled with some of the plans, road block # 1.
Then the economy began to collapse, I don't know but if I had to guess Graceland attendance probably wasn't in 2008 and 2009 what it was 5 years ago because of the fact a lot of folks are hurting now. If things had stayed how they were when he first decided to buy in, and noting more had happened I'd be disappointed. As it stands now, I'm not because I don't expect the guy to do things at a loss, he's not in it for that.

[vivaelvis]

Sadly, I have to also say NO!!! While I was encouraged by the recent news that Sillerman was planning a big meeting in Memphis in January to discuss his plans for the land he has purchased around Graceland, nothing ever came of that as far as I know. I haven't even seen any news about the meeting being held....so once again the promise of the plans moving forward have been dashed... (n)

Perhaps the economy has something to do with it, perhaps he isn't experienced enough in knowing exactly what the Elvis fans would most like to see in a Graceland renovation (of course, he could just ask...) so he is doing more research before moving forward with a plan...whatever the case, SAY SOMETHING!!!! Very rarely is there any press coming from Graceland about anything Sillerman is doing...definitely NOT a good sign in my opinion!!! (n)

TCB!
Mike

The plans for a Graceland redevelopment have not been hashed or canceled. The meeting that took place in Memphis shortly after Elvis week last month was a private meeting only to finalize the master plan. Therefor no media coverage was allowed. An official announcement is forthcoming. Possibly in April or May.

[vivaelvis]

I"ve cast no vote at all . Too many roadblocks in the way so far. He got controlling interest, started buying up land. All those plans have to be approved, Some of the Memphis folk weren't thrilled with some of the plans, road block # 1.
Then the economy began to collapse, I don't know but if I had to guess Graceland attendance probably wasn't in 2008 and 2009 what it was 5 years ago because of the fact a lot of folks are hurting now. If things had stayed how they were when he first decided to buy in, and noting more had happened I'd be disappointed. As it stands now, I'm not because I don't expect the guy to do things at a loss, he's not in it for that.

The only roadblock has been the poor economy. People in Memphis are thrilled about the planned expansion and revitalization of a dying community is coming. Sillerman confirmed to Memphis Mayor AC Wharton in NY a few weeks ago that he still intends to drastically enhance the Graceland area. These redevelopments don't happen overnight. Some are acting as if they should have already finished. Never before have they invested such an enormous amount into improving the area. This will be a mammouth project that will take years to complete.Be patient.

[debtdbruno]

I'm not sure that EPE doesn't have any control or influence over the music that's released.
Sony doesn't have to do anything EPE says but they've done several projects together.
An example would be when EPE did the Elvis by the Presley's documentary Sony released a soundtrack CD to the special.
The Vegas Cirque show that Sillerman has set up will have a soundtrack album released by Sony.
If EPE ever came out with that Elvis Anthology project I bet Sony would release a CD to coincide with the project.

As for Sony I know exactly how Elvis catalouge should be managed.


I'm interested in what you're thoughts are Brian...........(y)

[debtdbruno]

Not sure how I'd vote. I think Sillerman took a very huge investment and then the economy tanked. I think they should fix up the outside of Heartbreak Hotel. It looks like a prison. I think they should renovate the Circle G and open that up for tourists. Do they have a tour bus that takes fans around Memphis to see the key places of Elvis history?




I agree, they should but The Circle G.........expand The Elvis/Graceland experience further afield

No, they don't do a tour, but Andrew Hearn from Essentialelvis does an all day tour round Memphis (60+ Elvis related sites)

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

Five years into a project with no discernible plans is a long time! Yes there has been a recession and yes there needs to be time to put a plan in place. At this rate Lisa Marie's great, great grandchildren will be spearheading the changes lol

[debtdbruno]

get get on the next page????

[Getlo]

What's your verdict, how do you see the future with Sillerman?

As I said when this all went down five years ago, it could only end in tears.

I was right.

Graceland has become more like Disneyland.

The magic is gone - "Elvis Presley" is mainly viewed by EPE as a product and not an artist.

[Brian Quinn]

Bob Sillerman and Simon Fuller are two of the most successful entrepreneurs of all-time and are now both putting a lot of energy, money and ideas into promoting the legacy of Elvis. Without Bob Sillerman, EPE have admitted that they could not pursue the projects they wanted to. Sillerman is a big Elvis fan and has seen THE KING live in Concert. Unfortunately for Bob, the global financial meltdown has delayed some of his projected ideas for Elvis but as the economy improves I am certain he will be back on track.

Brian :D

[debtdbruno]

still not able to go directly to page 2 without posting........keep getting HTT 406 thingy

[KPM]

Bob Sillerman and Simon Fuller are two of the most successful entrepreneurs of all-time and are now both putting a lot of energy, money and ideas into promoting the legacy of Elvis. Without Bob Sillerman, EPE have admitted that they could not pursue the projects they wanted to. Sillerman is a big Elvis fan and has seen THE KING live in Concert. Unfortunately for Bob, the global financial meltdown has delayed some of his projected ideas for Elvis but as the economy improves I am certain he will be back on track.

Brian :D
I actually think what EPE/Lisa said was more like-we have come to a point where new energy and ideas were needed.
The global meltdown began in late 2008, IMO that has nothing to do with the first 4years Sillerman was in charge so I give him this last year due to the world economic meltdown-but not the first 4.
He made a lot of announcements, and within a couple years substantial changes were coming-did not happen (as others have pointed out). He made his fortune primarily from buying and selling business for a profit-(as many fortunes were made in the 1980s-) But his expertise I truely believe is in question.
Here is a rundown of some of his last 5 years problems:

In addition, through Flag Luxury Properties LLC, Sillerman invested disastrously in a proposed resort/real estate development on the Caribbean Island of Anguilla, originally slated to be named the Temenos Anguilla, a St Regis resort, and incorporating a Greg Norman golf course to be opened in 2007. Way over budget and suffering quality problems, St Regis pulled out. Sillerman attempted to rebrand the project as a Baccarat Hotel but this also failed.
In May 2009 Credit Suisse filed a request for summary judgement in New York State Supreme Court, alleging Sillerman had failed to pay the outstanding balance due under a credit agreement with Flag Luxury Properties LLC and that Sillerman has defaulted on a series of payments due since April 2008 totalling $21.4 million. The bank alleged subsequent payments due also remained unpaid and the outstanding principal due under the first lien credit agreement was $137.2 million. The project has now closed down and the golf course is inoperative. Purchasers of villas at the project have lost millions, damaging Sillerman's reputation for business acumen. In July 2009
in an interview with the New York Post Sillerman admitted failure, stating with reference to the Flag project: 'I think I have shown conclusively I'm not knowledgeable enough about the real estate business'.

IMO I think he has expanded too quickly into many areas in which he seems not quite sure of how to run and operate.

[Brian]

Didn't Sillerman say he was going to build an Elvis themed Disneyland theme park?
Then he also said he would be building an Elvis themed hotel in Las Vegas?

[Brian]

[/B]

I'm interested in what you're thoughts are Brian...........(y)

1. you keep all of Elvis' original albums in print

2. You have one compilation apiece respresenting Elvis' recorded output. you have 30#1 hits and Second to none be the only greatest hit compilations in the catalogue, 50 greatest love songs be the only love song compilation, If Everyday was like Christmas, Gospel 2005 etc.
You update the sound on these compilation every once in awhile but they stay in print and then you promote then to achieve maximum sales potential instead of releasing endless CD's with the same theme and songs on them.

3. After you have 1 compilation apiece respresenting all the genres of Elvis' recording career you delete all the other greatest hits, love song, gospel etc. from the catalogue.

4. keep the 50's, 60's, and 70's box sets in print but delete all the other box sets that have been released.

5. Sony should just stop releasing CD's every year and only release them sporadically and only if it's a major imporant release otherwise don't release anything new.

[vivaelvis]

Let's get something straight and out of the way. First of all Robert Sillerman has not had 5 years to put the plans for Graceland together. In fact the first publicized announcement was only three years ago in August 2007. Even then those were just preliminary plans and nothing concrete. Then came the downfall of the economy and Sillerman's company FXRE failed to pay the morgage on the property in Las Vegas and forced to file bankruptcy. Once that happened the resort and casino in Las Vegas was doomed and the new hotel for Graceland was put on hold. The economy has forced Sillerman to revamp his original plans and when they're announced they may not included some of the elements that the press reported. Don't expect any amusement park or skyscraper hotels looming over Graceland. There's height limits that they must follow since the airport is only two miles from Graceland. But you can expect a complete makeover for that entire part of South Memphis that will be unrecognizable. Accomplished by both EPE and the city government.

So in fairness, Sillerman has only had about 3 years at best to put this project together. If these proposed plans do not materialize within the next 3-5 years then I'll give him a negative for failure to deliver. It's too early to judge his short term involvement.

[scarlet_nell]

I am not sure what I think about it yet so I didn't vote. Hope you're not mad :(

[KPM]

Let's get something straight and out of the way. First of all Robert Sillerman has not had 5 years to put the plans for Graceland together. In fact the first publicized announcement was only three years ago in August 2007. Even then those were just preliminary plans and nothing concrete. Then came the downfall of the economy and Sillerman's company FXRE failed to pay the morgage on the property in Las Vegas and forced to file bankruptcy. Once that happened the resort and casino in Las Vegas was doomed and the new hotel for Graceland was put on hold. The economy has forced Sillerman to revamp his original plans and when they're announced they may not included some of the elements that the press reported. Don't expect any amusement park or skyscraper hotels looming over Graceland. There's height limits that they must follow since the airport is only two miles from Graceland. But you can expect a complete makeover for that entire part of South Memphis that will be unrecognizable. Accomplished by both EPE and the city government.

So in fairness, Sillerman has only had about 3 years at best to put this project together. If these proposed plans do not materialize within the next 3-5 years then I'll give him a negative for failure to deliver. It's too early to judge his short term involvement.
I beg to differ my friend here is the official time line that EPE has listed for the merger of Sillerman and EPE-which is exactly 5 years as of this month:
In February 2005, Robert F.X. Sillerman and his then new media and entertainment company CKX, Inc. acquired an 85% interest in the company Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc., including its physical and intellectual properties. Lisa Marie Presley retains a 15% ownership in the company and continues to be involved, as does her mother Priscilla. The pre-existing EPE management team remains in place and the company's operations, including the Graceland tour, continue uninterrupted, only with a much brighter future and wider global outreach made possible with the new partnership. EPE is a subsidiary of CKX, Inc., which is a publicly traded company listed on the Nasdaq National Market System (NMS) under the ticker symbol CKXE.

Lisa Marie Presley retains 100% sole personal ownership of Graceland Mansion itself and its over 13-acre original grounds and her father's personal effects - meaning costumes, wardrobe, awards, furniture, cars, etc.. She has made the mansion property and her father's personal effects permanently available for tours of Graceland and for use in all of EPE's operations.

The Down fall of the economy came in the last quarter of 2008 nearly 4 years after the merger. Not sure where you got your information but you may want to check it.

[KPM]

1. you keep all of Elvis' original albums in print

2. You have one compilation apiece respresenting Elvis' recorded output. you have 30#1 hits and Second to none be the only greatest hit compilations in the catalogue, 50 greatest love songs be the only love song compilation, If Everyday was like Christmas, Gospel 2005 etc.
You update the sound on these compilation every once in awhile but they stay in print and then you promote then to achieve maximum sales potential instead of releasing endless CD's with the same theme and songs on them.

3. After you have 1 compilation apiece respresenting all the genres of Elvis' recording career you delete all the other greatest hits, love song, gospel etc. from the catalogue.

4. keep the 50's, 60's, and 70's box sets in print but delete all the other box sets that have been released.

5. Sony should just stop releasing CD's every year and only release them sporadically and only if it's a major imporant release otherwise don't release anything new.
Well for once you and I are in partial agreement;) I do think they flood the market with too much product-the downside is to Elvis's sales totals at the RIAA and how that keeps his total sales from being seen because these releases never sell enough to get recognition, and it takes away from already existing albums where the sales may end up in his totals.......................but I also see that with a continued release plan-new titles new covers differing mixes-it keeps Elvis always seeming to have new releases (at least to younger or casual fans) such as Valentine releases with all love songs=some young adult or casual fan might buy this for s girlfriend or wife as a present-to them its new-even though to all of us its the same songs just from diffferent albums.

I will add again its very hard to market a dead artist who left next to nothing new in the vaults-Elvis has sold a substantial amount of records in the last 33 years for a dead artist with no material to market as new-so as much as we dislike the situation...........they must be succeeding or they would not continue to do the same thing.

[KPM]

I'm not sure that EPE doesn't have any control or influence over the music that's released.
Sony doesn't have to do anything EPE says but they've done several projects together.
An example would be when EPE did the Elvis by the Presley's documentary Sony released a soundtrack CD to the special.
The Vegas Cirque show that Sillerman has set up will have a soundtrack album released by Sony.
If EPE ever came out with that Elvis Anthology project I bet Sony would release a CD to coincide with the project.

As for Sony I know exactly how Elvis catalouge should be managed.
Yes they have worked together-but Sony calls the shots on the music EPE can ask or suggest-but that is as far as it goes.

Yes, you have your opinions on how it should be managed-and I have mine....they have theirs which has culminated in millions of sales since he died so as much as I might disagree with some of their plans-it has worked sales wise.
Unfortunately sales will always rule when you deal with a corporation-low overhead (which they have with owning his music) brings high profit margins.

[KPM]

Here is part of the original press release first announcing the deal between Sillerman and EPE:
December 16, 2004 -- Robert F.X. Sillerman and his new media and entertainment company, which will be named CKX, Inc., have entered into a definitive agreement to acquire a majority interest in the assets comprising the estate of Elvis Presley. The new partnership will conduct all business activities concerning EPE, Graceland and tour operations, however the transaction was structured so that the title to Graceland and its 13.6-acre grounds in Memphis, TN, and most of Elvis's personal effects remain with Lisa Marie Presley.

The new partnership includes all trademark rights to the name, likeness and image of Elvis Presley and all EPE-owned intellectual property, including its collection of photographs, archival documents and footage, and EPE's successful music publishing catalog, as well as the Graceland visitor center complex and Heartbreak Hotel across the street from the mansion and all other EPE real estate investments............................

[Brian]

thank you very much

[vivaelvis]

I beg to differ my friend here is the official time line that EPE has listed for the merger of Sillerman and EPE-which is exactly 5 years as of this month:
In February 2005, Robert F.X. Sillerman and his then new media and entertainment company CKX, Inc. acquired an 85% interest in the company Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc., including its physical and intellectual properties. Lisa Marie Presley retains a 15% ownership in the company and continues to be involved, as does her mother Priscilla. The pre-existing EPE management team remains in place and the company's operations, including the Graceland tour, continue uninterrupted, only with a much brighter future and wider global outreach made possible with the new partnership. EPE is a subsidiary of CKX, Inc., which is a publicly traded company listed on the Nasdaq National Market System (NMS) under the ticker symbol CKXE.

Lisa Marie Presley retains 100% sole personal ownership of Graceland Mansion itself and its over 13-acre original grounds and her father's personal effects - meaning costumes, wardrobe, awards, furniture, cars, etc.. She has made the mansion property and her father's personal effects permanently available for tours of Graceland and for use in all of EPE's operations.

The Down fall of the economy came in the last quarter of 2008 nearly 4 years after the merger. Not sure where you got your information but you may want to check it.

Nowhere in there does it talk about the $250 million that would be proposed 2 years later. You're missing my whole point. Sillerman may have already aquired the takeover in 2005 but he had not to that point started on the redevelopment plans. He met with Memphis officials in 2006 for the first time to discuss the project. He then continued to build a trustworthy relationship with then Shelby County mayor AC Wharton (now Memphis city mayor) and the Memphis government to get them all behind this massive revitalization. There's been a lot of work going on behind the scenes just getting the funding put in place to even unveil it to the city council who then must approve the project before construction can ever begin. That alone could take anywhere from 3 to 6 months.

Just because someone with billions announces publicly that they're planning to invest millions into a project doesn't mean that it's going to happen overnight. For an example, it took three years to build the Gettysburg Visitor's Center & Museum in Virgina after it had been unveiled to the public two years prior to the announcement.

[Brian]

Yes they have worked together-but Sony calls the shots on the music EPE can ask or suggest-but that is as far as it goes.

Yes, you have your opinions on how it should be managed-and I have mine....they have theirs which has culminated in millions of sales since he died so as much as I might disagree with some of their plans-it has worked sales wise.
Unfortunately sales will always rule when you deal with a corporation-low overhead (which they have with owning his music) brings high profit margins.

My point was when they ask or suggest something like the occassional project Sony goes along with it and does it.

Beyond that EPE wouldn't do anything different than Sony does because they both have the Colonel Parker philosophy of flooding the market with product.

Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison, The Beatles and other dead or vintage artists don't flood the market with endless releases yet there catalogues still make a lot of money and they still sell records.

[KPM]

The only roadblock has been the poor economy. People in Memphis are thrilled about the planned expansion and revitalization of a dying community is coming. Sillerman confirmed to Memphis Mayor AC Wharton in NY a few weeks ago that he still intends to drastically enhance the Graceland area. These redevelopments don't happen overnight. Some are acting as if they should have already finished. Never before have they invested such an enormous amount into improving the area. This will be a mammouth project that will take years to complete.Be patient.
No no-not be finished, but should have at least got a better start after the hoopla of the proposals and talk of some things to be accomplished in as little as 2 years. I recall ...some supporters of he and his plan who predicted swift action of new buildings, proposed plans for amusement type parks, I think someone posted a supposed drawing of the new Graceland attractions.............5 years later nothing done. I think it is the huge rush that the original plans seemed to call on with swift action which has left most of us-with a distaste in our mouths.
I predicted 5 years ago that all the proposed plans would take much much longer than were promised or predicted .....and I was correct.
If you make a big splash announcement and raise expectations then really get little done-and even fail here and there.....it just does not inspire confidence.
The poll was about Sillerman-I gave my opinion and posted his recent problems (ongoing) The poor economy is only an excuse for this last 12-14 months.
He admitted he had little real estate experience-part of this whole redevelopement idea-depends on real estate dealings and all that goes under that umbrella-city, county, federal, state agencies, zoning problems, local business owners etc......he has admitted these are not his strong points.
No one wants him to fail-but so far Lisa and EPE have had the best part of this deal.

[KPM]

My point was when they ask or suggest something like the occassional project Sony goes along with it and does it.
Beyond that EPE wouldn't do anything different than Sony does because they both have the Colonel Parker philosophy of flooding the market with product.

Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison, The Beatles and other dead or vintage artists don't flood the market with endless releases yet there catalogues still make a lot of money and they still sell records.
Well many projects have come about-but who is exactly the initiator-as far as I know has not been known. EPE surely comes up with marketing ideas-so does Sony-each feeds off the other I'm sure.
Hendrix I think you will find does have quite a few releases each year, and many reissues..... the Beatles do have a limited number of reissues or re-releases but also the Beatles do have unreleased product which is put out occasionally on projects. The Beatles also have the blessing of the contemporary rock critics, where as Elvis is on the sideline with not much praise...........this helps there sales.
EPE may not do anything different with the catalogue-but it is the single most important item in crafting a better image as an artist IMO as long as they don't own it-they are without legs to do anything beyond what they already do. Sony will not sell it so the point is mute!

[KPM]

I think Mr Sillerman had to spend a good 8-12 months working with his advisors on what the plans would be-after they acquired EPE-in order to spend so much up front, surely they had already decided what the course would be, what projects they would have and how the expansion would be done-you do not spend this kind of money on a whim.
You already have a blueprint for your projects-so you can hit the ground running so to speak.
I think if he did not have plans already being worked on while the deal was being negotiated then that makes him sound even more unprepared. The deal was announced late 2004 so the negotiations had to be in the works for many months before that announcement.
I think that had to be a period where all plans were being worked on and narrowed down to the steps needed to accomplish what Mr Sillerman and his advisors had in mind.

[Brian]

Is anybody happy with Robert Silllerman?

[Brian]

Well many projects have come about-but who is exactly the initiator-as far as I know has not been known. EPE surely comes up with marketing ideas-so does Sony-each feeds off the other I'm sure.
Hendrix I think you will find does have quite a few releases each year, and many reissues..... the Beatles do have a limited number of reissues or re-releases but also the Beatles do have unreleased product which is put out occasionally on projects. The Beatles also have the blessing of the contemporary rock critics, where as Elvis is on the sideline with not much praise...........this helps there sales.
EPE may not do anything different with the catalogue-but it is the single most important item in crafting a better image as an artist IMO as long as they don't own it-they are without legs to do anything beyond what they already do. Sony will not sell it so the point is mute!

The thing is EPE can keep doing what they are doing except do it better that's what they can do.

I thought the well was dry as far as unreleased Beatle material was concerned.

[KPM]

The thing is EPE can keep doing what they are doing except do it better that's what they can do.

I thought the well was dry as far as unreleased Beatle material was concerned.
No, they have many hours of jams, rehearsals, and material that was not considered good enough for release in the 60s.
Not to mention the estates of George & John having individual recordings in their own vaults and Paul also has his own dating back to the MCCARTNEY album. Paul mentioned in an interview that one day he needed to go thru his own personal tapes and put them in a little better order-to know what he actually has from his years of recording at home.
Where Elvis got to hate the recording process-all of these guys were always involved and writing/recording. John even during his New York days of learning to make bread and being a househusband was still writing, still making demos etc....

[intheghetto]

I was in Memphis during the 75 b-day weekend and the woman who runs the Graceland stables and stable tour told our tour group specific details of the upcoming renovations. Apparently everything, the shops, exhibits, and I guess the planes are moving to the mansion side of EP Boulevard. My impression was that HB Hotel was staying where it is and will be expanded. One of the objectives was to discontinue the shuttle buses that run back and forth to Graceland from the plaza which seem to be very costly due to the obvious fuel expense. If what they're saying is as big as it's supposed to be, it seems to me that the renovations may cut into the surrounding residential area adjacent to the mansion. it's just a guess on my part, but if it turns out to be fact that wouldn't sit well with me personally.

With the exception of the '60 Minutes' interview he did a few months ago, I haven't seen or heard much about Sillerman. The 60 Minutes interview was enough for me to see that he looks and sounds like the typical smarmy CEO. However, it wouldn't take a genius to see what the fans want when it comes to the Graceland experience. The way it is now is fine with me. I have issues with some of the merchandising, but overall things are done in good taste and the mansion itself isn't messed with too much. With that said, I hope Sillerman doesn't 'Disney-fy' the place with whatever changes are coming. That would be wrong and just really disturbing and sad.

[sasha]

I've asked EPE a few days ago about any progress on this. So far, no answer.
I think our economy does have a lot to do with any progress on anything .

As for moving everything across the street by Graceland- I don't really care .
As long as they have enough room & doesn't re-do the house etc. it doesn't bother me.

I'm not really into stocks, etc. But, I get the report every week or so.
I only know when the numbers go up or down. ;)

Stock information for CKx, Inc. (NASDAQ:CKXE) for the week of 2/16/2010.

Date Open Close High Low Volume
2/16/2010 3.99 4.01 4.02 3.94 271,587
2/17/2010 4.04 4.01 4.04 3.96 286,130
2/18/2010 3.96 4.00 4.01 3.95 316,240
2/19/2010 4.00 3.96 4.02 3.95 211,996

[KPM]

I have no doubt that eventually progress will be made-the direction of the changes and the extent of the changes is still I think waiting to be seen.
The comments here are mainly on the promise of his involvement-and the actual accomplishments thus far. Others were proclaiming quick action based on his past history and I think most of us were saying lets wait and see-well its 5 years later so that seems a nice point to ask hows he doing.IMO

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

Is anybody happy with Robert Silllerman?

The simple answer to the question is NO

Sillerman is a business man, Elvis is a no brainer when it come to money, the fans will buy good quality (and bad) merchandise if made accessible. IMO Sillerman is using the Elvis revenue to prop up his other business'. Five years with a recession or not is a long time to produce nothing. There has been speculation around what he has announced and yes there will have been expectations higher than necessary, but he has produced zilch.

The problem in the Elvis world is that there are too many people who hold small parts of the Elvis jigsaw which generates an income, e.g. EPE, Sony/BMG and Turner Movies. This makes it difficult to get anything done. IMO Sillerman has bought into a franchise he can't control and therefore not able to make good on his promises. Sillerman wants to make money without having to do anything he will have to invest in to maximise his return.

If we are asking questions after 5 years, where will we be in another 2-3....

[Brian]

This has been a pretty good thread.

i guess no one is going to be signing up for a Robert Sillerman fan club anytime soon.

[Brian]

No, they have many hours of jams, rehearsals, and material that was not considered good enough for release in the 60s.
Not to mention the estates of George & John having individual recordings in their own vaults and Paul also has his own dating back to the MCCARTNEY album. Paul mentioned in an interview that one day he needed to go thru his own personal tapes and put them in a little better order-to know what he actually has from his years of recording at home.
Where Elvis got to hate the recording process-all of these guys were always involved and writing/recording. John even during his New York days of learning to make bread and being a househusband was still writing, still making demos etc....

thanks for the information

Do you know if the Beatles have any songs left that they properly recorded in the studio?
Or are they all just unpolished demo, Basement and jam type recordings similar to the Elvis home recordings?

[KPM]

thanks for the information

Do you know if the Beatles have any songs left that they properly recorded in the studio?
Or are they all just unpolished demo, Basement and jam type recordings similar to the Elvis home recordings?
Its my understanding there are songs still unreleased that are regular studio recordings.
The Beatles were notorious according to George Martin for coming to the sessions for new albums-with way more songs than needed for the sessions and the only way to decide which would go into the albums was to pick songs from what they brought in and then concentrate on 12-15 for the sessions.
Also if you ever listen to Beatle Brunch -(similar to Elvis Only) there are many well known songs by the Beatles where they have totally different arrangements. tempos etc. which were recorded and they play those every now and then.
How many songs still totally unreleased I have no clue-but they do have quite a bit of material to work with as compared to Elvis.
Here are some songs that are for sure known and unreleased by the Beatles:
Etcetera: Written in 1968 during the White Album sessions by Paul McCartney. He let Marianne Faithful hear the demo to see if she wanted to record it, she didn’t and the song has never seen the light of day yet.

Goodbye: A demo exists of this song written for Mary Hopkins by Paul McCartney.

Heather: A song written by Paul McCartney in India in 1968. He got Donovan to play on the demo.

I Lost My Little Girl: A 1969 version of John Lennon taking the lead vocal on the first
song McCartney ever wrote.

I’m In Love:A Lennon version of this song was released in 1979 but the original Beatles demo from 1963 was given to the Fourmost who never used it.

Love Of The Loved:A song written by Paul McCartney when he was a teenager, the Beatles recorded this for their Decca audition in 1962, Was a hit for Cilla Black the following year.

Madman Coming: Several versions of this song are known to be in existence. Recorded during the Get Back sessions.

One And One Is Two: Another song the Beatles wrote to give to someone else.
McCartney intended this demo for Billy J Kramer who turned it down, became a hit for Mike Shannon.

Save The Last Dance For Me: Recorded in 1969 for the Let It Be album but never made
the final cut.

Some Days: From 1960, this original Quarry Men home demo of a song by McCartney is known to still exist.

Sour Milk Sea:A hit for Jackie Lomax. Originally written by George Harrison in 1968 and demoed by the Beatles the same year.

Summertime: A Hamburg recording of the Beatles in 1960. Also featured Lu Walters from the Hurricanes.

Suzy’s Parlour: A song written by Lennon recorded at the Let It Be sessions.

Tie Me Kangaroo Down Sport: Recorded on a BBC radio show, Rolf Harris had the
Beatles as his backing song on his famous song.

Wake Up In The Morning: This song was only re-discovered a few years ago.
Originally recorded in 1969 during the Get Back sessions.

[vivaelvis]

To answer a few of the above posts at once.

True that the "Elvis experience" will be relocating to the same side as the mansion. They have bought 31 acres of land on that side including the Hotwheels car lot, the Meadow Oaks apartment complex, the Boulevard Souviners shop, and a string of houses boardering Hickory Circle that runs behind the new expanded land.

Originally they planned to demolish the Heartbreak Hotel and replace it with a much larger one with convention space. That apparently is still the plan according to Memphis business leaders.

If you look at the pros and cons of what Sillerman has accomplished the pros outnumber the cons.

PROS
Viva Elvis
Major high profile exhibits at The Newseum in Washington DC and the Grammy Museum in LA.
Elvis: Viva Las Vegas (ABC Special in 2007)
Elvis/Celine Dion duet on American Idol
Purchase of 100 acres around Graceland (largest land purchase ever by EPE)
Upcoming car show at Graceland, said to be the largest ever in the midsouth.
More announcements TBA

CONS
The Vegas resort and casino (canceled due to economy but Elvis-themed properties still planned)
Graceland expansion yet to be fullfilled? (although moving forward and soon to be unveiled)

[KPM]

To answer a few of the above posts at once.

True that the "Elvis experience" will be relocating to the same side as the mansion. They have bought 31 acres of land on that side including the Hotwheels car lot, the Meadow Oaks apartment complex, the Boulevard Souviners shop, and a string of houses boardering Hickory Circle that runs behind the new expanded land.

Originally they planned to demolish the Heartbreak Hotel and replace it with a much larger one with convention space. That apparently is still the plan according to Memphis business leaders.

If you look at the pros and cons of what Sillerman has accomplished the pros outnumber the cons.

PROS
Viva Elvis
Major high profile exhibits at The Newseum in Washington DC and the Grammy Museum in LA.Elvis: Viva Las Vegas (ABC Special in 2007)
Elvis/Celine Dion duet on American Idol
Purchase of 100 acres around Graceland (largest land purchase ever by EPE)
Upcoming car show at Graceland, said to be the largest ever in the midsouth.
More announcements TBA

CONS
The Vegas resort and casino (canceled due to economy but Elvis-themed properties still planned)
Graceland expansion yet to be fullfilled? (although moving forward and soon to be unveiled)
I would say its a stretch to include this one-I mean the boards/members of these organizations decide what will be major exhibits each year-and they usually look to see what anniversaries of note (such as Elvis 75th birthday) will be upcoming to highlight. The car show is really just a larger version of something already ongoing long before Sillerman got involved-with the purchase of the planes Elvis owned-(Lisa Marie etc) and the purchase of cars once owned by Elvis which were displayed at Graceland so this also is not a new idea-just broadened out and larger:
“For many years we have had small car shows and exhibitions here at Graceland,” said Jack Soden, President and CEO of Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. “But this is by far the largest display of classic cars not only at Graceland but in this entire area.”

[sasha]

Thanks for keeping everyone up to date,vivaelvis.That was what I'd heard too.
That the Heartbreak Hotel was to be torn down & replaced.
Patience is not one of the human virtues .;)
Have a great Sunday !!

[vivaelvis]

I would say its a stretch to include this one-I mean the boards/members of these organizations decide what will be major exhibits each year-and they usually look to see what anniversaries of note (such as Elvis 75th birthday) will be upcoming to highlight. The car show is really just a larger version of something already ongoing long before Sillerman got involved-with the purchase of the planes Elvis owned-(Lisa Marie etc) and the purchase of cars once owned by Elvis which were displayed at Graceland so this also is not a new idea-just broadened out and larger:
“For many years we have had small car shows and exhibitions here at Graceland,” said Jack Soden, President and CEO of Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. “But this is by far the largest display of classic cars not only at Graceland but in this entire area.”

The car show this coming May would not have been possible without the massive purchase of land. The Show will be spread out over 70 acres of newly purchsed property.

[vivaelvis]

Thanks for keeping everyone up to date,vivaelvis.That was what I'd heard too.
That the Heartbreak Hotel was to be torn down & replaced.
Patience is not one of the human virtues .;)
Have a great Sunday !!

You're welcome Sasha.

[KPM]

The car show this coming May would not have been possible without the massive purchase of land. The Show will be spread out over 70 acres of newly purchsed property.
Not disputing this-but the car show format to promote Elvis is just not a new Sillerman idea-EPE has used it for years and Col Parker even used it when he sent the Gold Custom Caddie on a tour in 68.
I mean EPE knew they needed more space, - part of the reason they looked for a partner in the first place.

[KPM]

The simple answer to the question is NO

Sillerman is a business man, Elvis is a no brainer when it come to money, the fans will buy good quality (and bad) merchandise if made accessible. IMO Sillerman is using the Elvis revenue to prop up his other business'. Five years with a recession or not is a long time to produce nothing. There has been speculation around what he has announced and yes there will have been expectations higher than necessary, but he has produced zilch.

The problem in the Elvis world is that there are too many people who hold small parts of the Elvis jigsaw which generates an income, e.g. EPE, Sony/BMG and Turner Movies. This makes it difficult to get anything done. IMO Sillerman has bought into a franchise he can't control and therefore not able to make good on his promises. Sillerman wants to make money without having to do anything he will have to invest in to maximise his return.

If we are asking questions after 5 years, where will we be in another 2-3....
I agree, he can not do anything with movies or music-unless he gets permission and pays fees so althought he may work with Sony and Turner-he does not have the ability to call the shots, while he is making plans for something...............both of these companies are making plans and occasionally they all come together on something.
Now with theme parks, hotels, restaurants, Graceland events etc........he does not have to deal with anyone for permission he just exploits the Elvis name and face-the talent end which produced the worldwide name is largely left out of the equation.
I will agree that all three Sillerman/EPE Sony and Turner want to maximise their profits by the talent of Elvis Presley but none have the whole ball of wax-divided is just not a great way to similar goals.
But I do not see that changing.

[Brian]

I agree, he can not do anything with movies or music-unless he gets permission and pays fees so althought he may work with Sony and Turner-he does not have the ability to call the shots, while he is making plans for something...............both of these companies are making plans and occasionally they all come together on something.
Now with theme parks, hotels, restaurants, Graceland events etc........he does not have to deal with anyone for permission he just exploits the Elvis name and face-the talent end which produced the worldwide name is largely left out of the equation.
I will agree that all three Sillerman/EPE Sony and Turner want to maximise their profits by the talent of Elvis Presley but none have the whole ball of wax-divided is just not a great way to similar goals.
But I do not see that changing.

Sillerman knew all of the problems or restrictions that could occur because of this but still made all these promises.

I personally don't think you could do much with the films except put them all on DVD which will probably eventually happen because every film or t.v. show seems to get released in that format at some point.
Fans that blame Robert Sillerman for not getting all the movies on DVD or not getting Elvis on Tour on DVD a lot quicker just don't understand how things work.

[UDnKY]

Perhaps when the economy is on a better track, we will see the promises come through.

[KPM]

Sillerman knew all of the problems or restrictions that could occur because of this but still made all these promises.

I personally don't think you could do much with the films except put them all on DVD which will probably eventually happen because every film or t.v. show seems to get released in that format at some point.
Fans that blame Robert Sillerman for not getting all the movies on DVD or not getting Elvis on Tour on DVD a lot quicker just don't understand how things work.
I am not blaming him-not at all-I am pointing out a fact of the situation, for Sillerman, for EPE before Sillerman. It points out that when you do not have the films or the recordings....you are limited in what you can do with them and the effect they have on Elvis's image and financial situation for the estate.
That is the point I was making.

[ricardo b. prospero]

Just like you said five years have gone by with less significant changes clearly proves the guy does not care a bit. Pity, I believe we can not expect any changes again for another five years.

[vivaelvis]

I see the thread is still screwed up. I have to post a message then go to the forum page just to read the freakin' other posts on this thread. Please fix it!

[vivaelvis]

I am not blaming him-not at all-I am pointing out a fact of the situation, for Sillerman, for EPE before Sillerman. It points out that when you do not have the films or the recordings....you are limited in what you can do with them and the effect they have on Elvis's image and financial situation for the estate.
That is the point I was making.

Correct. If EPE had already owned the movie and music rights EPE would have been making double each year. Without Graceland as income annually EPE wouldn't make much at all.

[vivaelvis]

Just like you said five years have gone by with less significant changes clearly proves the guy does not care a bit. Pity, I believe we can not expect any changes again for another five years.

If all goes as planned there should be an official announcement and public unveiling of the plans within the next 2 or 3 months.

[Brian]

Correct. If EPE had already owned the movie and music rights EPE would have been making double each year. Without Graceland as income annually EPE wouldn't make much at all.

EPE was never going to own the movies or the music so it is what it is.

[Polk-Salad-Annie]

I voted no cause Sillerman just leads to empty promises and if he wanted to really give elvis the respect he deserves than he would change somethings like the tacky gifts and stop the ETA from being at graceland.
I have to agree with you.
Sillerman thinks that he can sell everything as long it has a Elvis image or a Elvis name on it.
He doesn't care what he sells, just as long as the money is coming in, he doesn't care.

For example this:
http://s7d2.scene7.com/is/image/MusicToday/EPAM0907?$shadow1$&$300$&bgc=ffffff
$56 for this, no way.

Or this:
http://s7d2.scene7.com/is/image/MusicToday/EPCM262?$shadow1$&$300$&bgc=ffffff
$60, not in a hundred years would i buy this.:cursing::cursing::cursing:

And about the ETA,s at Graceland.
I would give my opinion about that, but i don't think that some people would like how i feel about the ETA,s.
I know that there are people that like them (:blink::blink::hmm::hmm:), so i will keep that to myself.

[KPM]

EPE was never going to own the movies or the music so it is what it is.
That is correct-the contracts for music and movies were signed, sealed, and delivered (to quote Stevie Wonder) long before there was an EPE. The companies who now have ownership of music/movies are not selling-at least..... for a long long time....why should they, the name of the game is profit and as long as profit roles in for little investment-they keep them.

[debtdbruno]

I'm not posting anything relative, it's the only way I can get to the last page. Can't access it otherwise

[debtdbruno]

I have to agree with you.
Sillerman thinks that he can sell everything as long it has a Elvis image or a Elvis name on it.
He doesn't care what he sells, just as long as the money is coming in, he doesn't care.

For example this:
http://s7d2.scene7.com/is/image/MusicToday/EPAM0907?$shadow1$&$300$&bgc=ffffff
$56 for this, no way.

Or this:
http://s7d2.scene7.com/is/image/MusicToday/EPCM262?$shadow1$&$300$&bgc=ffffff
$60, not in a hundred years would i buy this.:cursing::cursing::cursing:

And about the ETA,s at Graceland.
I would give my opinion about that, but i don't think that some people would like how i feel about the ETA,s.
I know that there are people that like them (:blink::blink::hmm::hmm:), so i will keep that to myself.


That's about the crux of it............Name and Image=$$$$$$

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

I see the thread is still screwed up. I have to post a message then go to the forum page just to read the freakin' other posts on this thread. Please fix it!

I have forwarded your comments to Albert, however there seems there is little that can be done..

[debtdbruno]

hello!!!!!!

[debtdbruno]

strange, I can get onto page 1.......but not 2,3 or 4..........wierd

[Miss Clawdy]

strange, I can get onto page 1.......but not 2,3 or 4..........wierd

I have the same problem....:hmm:

[vivaelvis]

One of the main reasons why the Graceland expansion has yet to get underway has been due to the 'Boulevard Souviners' shop located next to Graceland. The owners won't sell their inventory to EPE and once had a sign on the front of their building that read "WE STILL HAVE 12 YEARS ON OUR LEASE". That's been one of the holdups. EPE does own the property but Boulevard Souviners has a long term lease by the original property owner. EPE could always file for eminent domain and force them out by government authority. But I don't know if they will go that route or not. I'm sure though Sillerman will give them an offer they eventually won't be able to turn down.

I personally do not think that Sillerman and EPE should have come out like they did and announced a major transformation as they're planning without having the financing and specifics already in place. They still had no idea exactly what it was that they wanted to do up until this past January. That was what the meeting was for. To finalize the plans to present to the city for approval. That's not very professional. Had they just have kept it private and between them and the city government up until they planned to unveil it to both the city and the public then there wouldn't be all of this anti-Sillerman bashing going on in the Elvis world. I think when he said he wanted to make Graceland like Disneyland that made some furious about the plans and they misunderstood what he was referring to and jumped to conclusions. They thought that Graceland-the mansion itself would be altered and expanded, which is not the case.

However, these plans need to be thought out extremely careful as they could do too much and make Graceland more of a carnival experience and that could turn future fans and visitors away. There's no denying that there needs to be a complete overhaul of the property across the street from the house and to the north of it. But too much might mean less visitors. All that is really needed is a much nicer hotel with convention space, restaurants and auditorium for live events. A new visitors center with expanded exhibit space is a must of course as the current one is not only small but built like a shopping center. On really cold or very hot days you have to do a lot of outdoor traveling to get to each exhibit, like the planes for example. The new one should all be indoors from what I am understanding. Sillerman wants a place that can handle very large crowds and hi tech exhibits.

If he delivers as he promises then I think those "no's" will quickly turn to "yes'" as far as his approval ratings go.

[KPM]

One of the main reasons why the Graceland expansion has yet to get underway has been due to the 'Boulevard Souviners' shop located next to Graceland. The owners won't sell their inventory to EPE and once had a sign on the front of their building that read "WE STILL HAVE 12 YEARS ON OUR LEASE". That's been one of the holdups. EPE does own the property but Boulevard Souviners has a long term lease by the original property owner. EPE could always file for eminent domain and force them out by government authority. But I don't know if they will go that route or not. I'm sure though Sillerman will give them an offer they eventually won't be able to turn down.

I personally do not think that Sillerman and EPE should have come out like they did and announced a major transformation as they're planning without having the financing and specifics already in place. They still had no idea exactly what it was that they wanted to do up until this past January. That was what the meeting was for. To finalize the plans to present to the city for approval. That's not very professional. Had they just have kept it private and between them and the city government up until they planned to unveil it to both the city and the public then there wouldn't be all of this anti-Sillerman bashing going on in the Elvis world. I think when he said he wanted to make Graceland like Disneyland that made some furious about the plans and they misunderstood what he was referring to and jumped to conclusions. They thought that Graceland-the mansion itself would be altered and expanded, which is not the case.

However, these plans need to be thought out extremely careful as they could do too much and make Graceland more of a carnival experience and that could turn future fans and visitors away. There's no denying that there needs to be a complete overhaul of the property across the street from the house and to the north of it. But too much might mean less visitors. All that is really needed is a much nicer hotel with convention space, restaurants and auditorium for live events. A new visitors center with expanded exhibit space is a must of course as the current one is not only small but built like a shopping center. On really cold or very hot days you have to do a lot of outdoor traveling to get to each exhibit, like the planes for example. The new one should all be indoors from what I am understanding. Sillerman wants a place that can handle very large crowds and hi tech exhibits.

If he delivers as he promises then I think those "no's" will quickly turn to "yes'" as far as his approval ratings go.
I agree they should have played all their cards close to the vest and not raised expectations.
As far as the shop-that is one of the many problems that have moved this all so slowly.
They could have also torn down everything except the shop-and build around it. I have seen that done in my area-a man owned a 12 room house-had been in his family for generations it had been modernized and it was a grand old house-developers bought all the surrounding properties and planned to build a 10 store mini-mall. The man would not sell, they tried making better offers and he would not sell-public opinion was on his side. After a couple years of sparring back and forth-he suggested that they build around him-so they did. He died about 8 years later and his sister inherited the home-sold it to the same people with the stipulation that a small monument to her brother be built somewhere on the property when the home was torn down. They built a small fountain with wood timbers rising out of the water-and a sign in bronze mentions his name and his steadfastness in the love of his family home.
It may not be an ideal solution but it would have speeded up progress if Sillerman had tried this.

The fact that it took 5 full years to come up with the just presented plans-that IMO shows the lack of a true planning process that should have been going on during the years or so of negotiations with EPE before the sale was announced. I know most companies I have been associated with would never spend the kind of money Sillerman did up front without having Plan A ready to hit the ground running as soon as the sale was complete.....with backup Plans B & C ready for the foreseeable problems of Plan A that may crop up and cause a rethink.
Carpenters measure 3 times long before they buy the lumber and cut......... the ones who buy the lumber, measure once and miscut.....just poor planning.

[KPM]

Another thing that I will point out-that I know has been mentioned here when Sillerman bought his 85%-Elvis is not being saved by Sillerman!
His legacy has survived for 33 years on the talent and charisma of Elvis Presley........Despite the fact that Sony/BMG?RCA owns all the music and does its own thing, Turner and the film companies own the movies and do their own thing, and EPE owned the rights to his likeness/home and they did their own thing.....and until, oh the last 15 years or so the coordination between these 3 has not always been good. Unreleased quality "Totally new songs" are just not there in the vaults, and Elvis still survived....some years he has even flourished-not because of SONY/TURNER/EPE-but because of Elvis and his talent/charisma. Sillerman can not add to that talent/charisma-any more than the other 3 could-all can only showcase it and highlight it.
His fans range from 70 somethings, ....60s,.... 50s, 40s.... etc.....down to Disney age fans.
Is he the hottest thing on the planet 33 years after his death-no IMO but how can you expect someone long dead to compete with fresh faced, young explosive talents who are in the flesh making music?.
But........ is he a growing entity IMO yes.
Will he gain a huge new following in the next generations-probably not-but he will grab new fans as he always did....... they will see his face and listen to his voice and they will -GET IT!
Sillerman coming to the rescue is a farce-but he can help getting more people to give Elvis a look-if he truely has more in mind than profit and loss??? Lets hope so.

[TTWII2001]

Hy , See I vote yes for one reason, he show some interest he's the one who put money on the line..but at the end like all business man and politician words and promises comes out faster than action.....and we tend to remember promises so very well...so anybody wouldn't have been right or OK for us the fans..the problem is that we might expect to much....they all see Elvis as a product, this is a thing that we the fan don't...we see him as a man, a our friend...and forget that there is no friendship in business..witch is too bad for us. Bmg/sony...they just continue to sell Elvis the way the colonel did in my point of view in an old fashion way......and it's not easy to sell to the youth...I have kids...and they know who is Elvis and they recognize his music...I think we have the FAns that responsability..to keep the king memories alive....share our passion with everyone....thanks for reading me have a nice day..

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

The problem we have is that Sillerman doesn't seem to be doing anything to canvass the fans, Sillerman could have asked the fans what they wanted, he could have done this by poll or even a multiple choice on-line poll or anything. The fans would have responded and he could have looked at long term projects and had a couple of quick wins to get the fans buy in. Instead his mouth has written cheques it cannot cash and the fans remain disappointed.

[Brian]

The problem we have is that Sillerman doesn't seem to be doing anything to canvass the fans, Sillerman could have asked the fans what they wanted, he could have done this by poll or even a multiple choice on-line poll or anything. The fans would have responded and he could have looked at long term projects and had a couple of quick wins to get the fans buy in. Instead his mouth has written cheques it cannot cash and the fans remain disappointed.

Robert Sillerman goals involve real estate that's all he's ever been interested in and that's all he cares about because he thinks that will be the most lucrative idea.
He wants to buy up all of the surrounding acres of land around Graceland to build more shops and attractions for tourists, He wants to build an Elvis themed hotel in Las Vegas to attract guests, He wants an Elvis theme park like Disneyland and DisneyWorld that he hopes will make him as much money and be as successful as they have.
If fans don't want a tacky Elvis themed hotel in Vegas and a tacky amusement park he could care less because that's what he has wanted to do from the beginning the other things he could do aren't on the list.

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

Robert Sillerman goals involve real estate that's all he's ever been interested in and that's all he cares about because he thinks that will be the most lucrative idea.
He wants to buy up all of the surrounding acres of land around Graceland to build more shops and attractions for tourists, He wants to build an Elvis themed hotel in Las Vegas to attract guests, He wants an Elvis theme park like Disneyland and DisneyWorld that he hopes will make him as much money and be as successful as they have.
If fans don't want a tacky Elvis themed hotel in Vegas and a tacky amusement park he could care less because that's what he has wanted to do from the beginning the other things he could do aren't on the list.

Then he is doomed to failure, fans want more than just cheap tricks, they want quality and are prepared to pay for it. If Sillerman thinks that theme parks are the future we all need a stiff drink because this isn't what the fans want or even the general public.

[KPM]

The problem we have is that Sillerman doesn't seem to be doing anything to canvass the fans, Sillerman could have asked the fans what they wanted, he could have done this by poll or even a multiple choice on-line poll or anything. The fans would have responded and he could have looked at long term projects and had a couple of quick wins to get the fans buy in. Instead his mouth has written cheques it cannot cash and the fans remain disappointed.
Have to agree totally(y)(y)(y)

[vivaelvis]

There are no plans for an Elvis style theme park with rides at Graceland. Please stop spreading falsified information. There's already enough misconceptions about the plans and the investors behind them as it is. There doesn't need to be more.

[Brian]

There are no plans for an Elvis style theme park with rides at Graceland. Please stop spreading falsified information. There's already enough misconceptions about the plans and the investors behind them as it is. There doesn't need to be more.

It's isn't false information it is 100% fact
It's not misconception.

He has been thinking about an Elvis theme park and I never said it was going to be built at Graceland.
It's one of his grand ideas and goals for the future.

[vivaelvis]

It's isn't false information it is 100% fact
It's not misconception.

He has been thinking about an Elvis theme park and I never said it was going to be built at Graceland.
It's one of his grand ideas and goals for the future.

That's not what he means by "theme park". Bob Sillerman is referring to a no-ride attraction with hi tech exhibits that is developed around Elvis' likeness and image through a thematic experience. Theme parks don't always mean parks with thrill rides. A museum can sometimes be seen as a theme park. It has a theme to it whereas it gets considered to be a "theme park". This is probably the most misconceieved theory about the plans for the Graceland area. Hopefully within the next 6 weeks we'll have all of this nonsense put to rest for good when the plans are unveiled.

[Brian]

That's not what he means by "theme park". Bob Sillerman is referring to a no-ride attraction with hi tech exhibits that is developed around Elvis' likeness and image through a thematic experience. Theme parks don't always mean parks with thrill rides. A museum can sometimes be seen as a theme park. It has a theme to it whereas it gets considered to be a "theme park". This is probably the most misconceieved theory about the plans for the Graceland area. Hopefully within the next 6 weeks we'll have all of this nonsense put to rest for good when the plans are unveiled.


When I said theme park I didn't say whether it would have rides or not.

It's still an incredibly tacky idea.

[KPM]

There are no plans for an Elvis style theme park with rides at Graceland. Please stop spreading falsified information. There's already enough misconceptions about the plans and the investors behind them as it is. There doesn't need to be more.
Those misconceptions IMO start with Sillerman-he could have squashed every untrue rumor that has been spread ....easily and quickly from the start......by releasing statements which were consistent and also saying "this ...XYZ concept... is not under consideration" or "Yes we are considering.... XYZ in relation to a theme park situation"
He has to have people who are listening to fans and others about what they want to see done and what they do not want to see done-all big companies have researchers to find what the public wants.
In letting rumors run rampant, he just hurts his image as a great business man and promotor.
Back when he bought his 85% interest-someone here posted a rendereing of a supposed possible theme park proposal along the lines of what Sillerman was wanting-it was gastly and made Disneyland look subdued.... as I recall.
The individual who posted the rendering as I recall was very keen on Sillerman and kept up with all the latest info on his ideas....so he got the idea of this garish theme park from somewhere at the time.
So if the theme park idea is a misconception someone who liked Sillerman was spreading that misconception 5 years ago.

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

I agree Sillerman knows that people will speculate!

[Tommy]

So what do you think should be done to improve the property around Graceland? Who can do the job?

[vivaelvis]

Those misconceptions IMO start with Sillerman-he could have squashed every untrue rumor that has been spread ....easily and quickly from the start......by releasing statements which were consistent and also saying "this ...XYZ concept... is not under consideration" or "Yes we are considering.... XYZ in relation to a theme park situation"
He has to have people who are listening to fans and others about what they want to see done and what they do not want to see done-all big companies have researchers to find what the public wants.
In letting rumors run rampant, he just hurts his image as a great business man and promotor.
Back when he bought his 85% interest-someone here posted a rendereing of a supposed possible theme park proposal along the lines of what Sillerman was wanting-it was gastly and made Disneyland look subdued.... as I recall.
The individual who posted the rendering as I recall was very keen on Sillerman and kept up with all the latest info on his ideas....so he got the idea of this garish theme park from somewhere at the time.
So if the theme park idea is a misconception someone who liked Sillerman was spreading that misconception 5 years ago.

To my knowledge there's never been a publicized rendering of what is or was being planned. Especially on the net. It's also clear that EPE isn't revamping or expanding the attraction to appeal to the current fanbase. The majority of visitors to Graceland arent the posters on the messgae boards and many of them weren't even born until the 90's or so. That is who their targeting. One of the biggest knocks that EPE hears alot of is that there's no convention or conference space in the surrounding area. Having their own convention center at Graceland will mean more visitors which is why they're expanding to begin with.

[vivaelvis]

So what do you think should be done to improve the property around Graceland? Who can do the job?

I think we'll have a better idea of what is needed when the expansion is officially unveiled to the public.

[KPM]

To my knowledge there's never been a publicized rendering of what is or was being planned. Especially on the net. It's also clear that EPE isn't revamping or expanding the attraction to appeal to the current fanbase. The majority of visitors to Graceland arent the posters on the messgae boards and many of them weren't even born until the 90's or so. That is who their targeting. One of the biggest knocks that EPE hears alot of is that there's no convention or conference space in the surrounding area. Having their own convention center at Graceland will mean more visitors which is why they're expanding to begin with.

Exactly-I did not post the rendering. It was posted by someone who posted here for a while and was hugely interested in Sillermans plans and who hinted for a while that they were in the know when it came to Sillerman and his plans. The "misconception" about the plans for a theme park were spread by someone who was a Sillerman supporter, not by any of us who were skeptical about his plan.
I would disagree with your assessment that the majority of people who visit Graceland are born in the 90s-I think if you broke it down into who visits yearly (not just once or twice in a lifetime), you would find that longtime fans visit often. EPE has always been very respectful and concerned with "longtime fans" they would be silly to not do so. The "towels, plates, gold record plaques, etc that make up a big part of their income are not bought by the one time visitor-they are bought by longterm fans. (whether you consider that good or bad)
I am 55 I was born in 1955... I am not a first generation Elvis fan... but have been a fan for over 47 years.
There seems to be a misconception on many peoples part that the "longtime fans" are all from the 50s and now in their late 60s and 70s-so the need to attract new fans is great. I disagree-I should be a huge Beatle or Rolling Stone fan I was a teen in the 60s yet I chose Elvis, (as did my brothers) and as did many of my friends. We are not planning to be around a while yet:D
The kids who discovered Elvis in the late 60s and early 70s-they are younger than me-they plan to be around for a while also.
When I saw Elvis in 1976-the crowd was diverse and evenly divided...... grandparents, middleaged, 20 somethings and teenie boppers.
The teenie boppers in the row ahead of us-about 10 were carrying handmade signs that read Elvis We Love You Sing Hound Dog-those kids would today be near 42-45 today (they looked 12-14) They will be around awhile........
The idea some have suggested is that they are not considering the thoughts of the longterm fans-that does not seem likely to me.
They may want newer attractions for a new generation-but I'm sure they are wise enough to know not to tick off the people who have "buttered their bread" for over 50 years.

[vivaelvis]

Exactly-I did not post the rendering. It was posted by someone who posted here for a while and was hugely interested in Sillermans plans and who hinted for a while that they were in the know when it came to Sillerman and his plans. The "misconception" about the plans for a theme park were spread by someone who was a Sillerman supporter, not by any of us who were skeptical about his plan.
I would disagree with your assessment that the majority of people who visit Graceland are born in the 90s-I think if you broke it down into who visits yearly (not just once or twice in a lifetime), you would find that longtime fans visit often. EPE has always been very respectful and concerned with "longtime fans" they would be silly to not do so. The "towels, plates, gold record plaques, etc that make up a big part of their income are not bought by the one time visitor-they are bought by longterm fans. (whether you consider that good or bad)
I am 55 I was born in 1955... I am not a first generation Elvis fan... but have been a fan for over 47 years.
There seems to be a misconception on many peoples part that the "longtime fans" are all from the 50s and now in their late 60s and 70s-so the need to attract new fans is great. I disagree-I should be a huge Beatle or Rolling Stone fan I was a teen in the 60s yet I chose Elvis, (as did my brothers) and as did many of my friends. We are not planning to be around a while yet:D
The kids who discovered Elvis in the late 60s and early 70s-they are younger than me-they plan to be around for a while also.
When I saw Elvis in 1976-the crowd was diverse and evenly divided...... grandparents, middleaged, 20 somethings and teenie boppers.
The teenie boppers in the row ahead of us-about 10 were carrying handmade signs that read Elvis We Love You Sing Hound Dog-those kids would today be near 42-45 today (they looked 12-14) They will be around awhile........
The idea some have suggested is that they are not considering the thoughts of the longterm fans-that does not seem likely to me.
They may want newer attractions for a new generation-but I'm sure they are wise enough to know not to tick off the people who have "buttered their bread" for over 50 years.

I was talking to a Graceland worker once and they told me that about 60% of the people who visit Graceland are first timers and not really Elvis fans. They come in curiosity but leave with a new respect for the legend. I have noticed myself that more and more children of all ages are not only going to Graceland but are wanting to go. It use to be that you had to drag the kids there. Now they're the ones dragging their parents.

I don't think EPE or Sillerman is trying to tunr off the first generation followers or even the fans who have been coming for years. I think they want it to appeal to everyone of all ages and backgrounds. I'm just glad that there's no plans for roller coasters as that would definitely make it tacky, tastelss and quite possibly turn visitors away instead of attracting.

[KPM]

I was talking to a Graceland worker once and they told me that about 60% of the people who visit Graceland are first timers and not really Elvis fans. They come in curiosity but leave with a new respect for the legend. I have noticed myself that more and more children of all ages are not only going to Graceland but are wanting to go. It use to be that you had to drag the kids there. Now they're the ones dragging their parents.

I don't think EPE or Sillerman is trying to tunr off the first generation followers or even the fans who have been coming for years. I think they want it to appeal to everyone of all ages and backgrounds. I'm just glad that there's no plans for roller coasters as that would definitely make it tacky, tastelss and quite possibly turn visitors away instead of attracting.
An interesting statement:
Generally speaking, fans cross all age and socioeconomic groups and tend to be very loyal, says Danny Hiltenbrand, retail and catalog merchandising director at Elvis Presley Enterprises. "We have everyone from Harley-Davidson bikers to corporate CEOs who are fans. There are some people who you would never know are fans."..........
Pretty well says it all-as to how they realize who spends the most cash when they visit....

[KPM]

Here is the actual statement that EPE has about visitors to Graceland at its website:
Graceland visitors come from all walks of life, all ages, all musical tastes, all income levels, all educational backgrounds, and all parts of the world. The demographics are broad. Over half of Graceland's visitors are under the age of 35. Graceland is a must-see for visiting dignitaries, touring Broadway show casts, touring rock stars, and people of virtually every description coming to Memphis......
So, if when averaged, 50%of the visitors are under 35 years of age then the other 50% would be over 35. Pretty even in terms of visitation.

[Donut]

From the Memphis Business Journal

Elvis royalties rocket up by 34.6 percent

Tuesday, March 16, 2010, 10:47am CDT | Modified: Tuesday, March 16, 2010, 10:55am

Elvis Presley Enterprises parent company CKx Inc. released its annual report Tuesday, which showed a 34.6 percent increase in Presley royalties and licensing revenue.

The Presley business segment of CKx brought in $24.473 million in royalties and licensing revenue in 2009, compared to $18.186 million in 2008.

Attendance at Elvis’ Memphis home was also up in 2009. 542,728 people went to Graceland in 2009, a 1.2 percent increase compared to 536,196 in 2008.

Revenue from Graceland’s operations fell slightly to $36.124 million in 2009, a 1.6 percent drop compared to $36.713 million in 2008.

CKx also noted in the report that its planned, $250 million redevelopment initiative for Graceland would need some retooling.

“The company has determined that there is a strong likelihood that the original preliminary design plans may require significant modifications or abandonment for a redesign due to the current economic conditions and a lack of certainty as to exact scope, cost, financing plan and timing of this project,” according to the report.

Another wrinkle in the redevelopment effort is the recently terminated relationship between CKx and FX Real Estate and Entertainment Inc. The two companies entered into an agreement in 2007 that would grant FXRE the exclusive right to own, develop and operate Elvis-themed hotels, casinos and other real estate-based projects. The relationship officially dissolved earlier this month when FXRE failed to make its annual $10 million guaranteed royalty payment, according to CKx’s report.

FXRE originally was set to develop one or more hotels at Graceland as a piece of the redevelopment project.

CKx wrote off $900,000 in deferred costs related to preliminary design work for the redevelopment, but also said it “remains committed to the Graceland redevelopment and will continue to pursue opportunities on its own or with third parties.”

CKx, through a partnership with Cirque du Soleil, recently opened a permanent live theatrical show based on the life, times and music of Elvis. The show, presented at the new Aria Resort and Casino on the Las Vegas strip, opened performances in February.

New York-based CKx (NYSE: CKXE) maintains an 85 percent ownership in Elvis Presley Enterprises.

http://memphis.bizjournals.com/memphis/stories/2010/03/15/daily6.html

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

Which basically sums up the fact that Sillerman is not able to deliver on his promises!
He is happy to reap the rewards from the name, but down scale his adventures.

In short, enjoy the rewards, invest the minimum to maintain the income stream.

I'm sorry, I just don't have faith that this guy is little more than a huckster.

[KPM]

Which basically sums up the fact that Sillerman is not able to deliver on his promises!
He is happy to reap the rewards from the name, but down scale his adventures.In short, enjoy the rewards, invest the minimum to maintain the income stream.

I'm sorry, I just don't have faith that this guy is little more than a huckster.
Pretty much my feelings also.(y)

[vivaelvis]

Don't expect anything major to be built at Graceland anytime soon. In fact latest word is that the original preliminary plans may now be scrapped altogether due to economic issues and a new redesigning for a plan b proposal. I had a feeling that with the recession that there would be a downsizing of the project. IMO it may be 10 years before there's a redevelopment completed. But my fear is will it be too late? Memphis was just listed by Forbes as the 3rd most miserable city in America.

[vivaelvis]

I just saw that this had already been posted. Otherwise I wouldn't have reposted the info. Someone needs to fix this crazy link. You can't read it unless you post on it.

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

In fact latest word is that the original preliminary plans may now be scrapped altogether due to economic issues and a new redesigning for a plan b proposal. I had a feeling that with the recession that there would be a downsizing of the project.

Therein lies the problem, the Elvis Presley industry in a time of economic instability is still generating small but increasing profits, whereas global companies are still struggling to break even. Sillerman has invested in the Elvis market because it makes profit. The question then has to be asked why does Sillerman then have to cut back on a brand that will give him a return on investment? The answer is simple, the Elvis Brand is helping keep Sillermans business afloat with guaranteed profits.

I don't care if Sillerman builds new hotels, I don't care if he builds new Disneyland themed parks. I just want Sillerman to maintain what is already out there to a high standard and preserve the legacy. I don't mind if Sillerman or whoever makes profit, just look after the legacy and ensure it is available to future generations via whatever media outlets are available.

JUST DON'T USE ELVIS PRESLEY AS A CASH COW!!

[vivaelvis]

Although they do need convention facilities badly I don't think those are first priorities. At least they shouldn't be. The visitors properties like the plaza and Crossing need to be either upgraded or torn down and rebuilt as their top priority. I know the plan was to relocate all of the Elvis attractions next to the mansion on the same side of street as the house, but if that's no longer the plan then they need to stop stalling and start getting it together and build a new visitor's complex somewhere on the grounds for future tourism. They need expanded exhibit space more than anything. If they don't plan on building a new museum/Visitor center anytime soon then shut down the 'Walk A Mile' theater at the plaza and turn it into expanded museum space.

[KPM]

Therein lies the problem, the Elvis Presley industry in a time of economic instability is still generating small but increasing profits, whereas global companies are still struggling to break even. Sillerman has invested in the Elvis market because it makes profit. The question then has to be asked why does Sillerman then have to cut back on a brand that will give him a return on investment? The answer is simple, the Elvis Brand is helping keep Sillermans business afloat with guaranteed profits.I don't care if Sillerman builds new hotels, I don't care if he builds new Disneyland themed parks. I just want Sillerman to maintain what is already out there to a high standard and preserve the legacy. I don't mind if Sillerman or whoever makes profit, just look after the legacy and ensure it is available to future generations via whatever media outlets are available.

JUST DON'T USE ELVIS PRESLEY AS A CASH COW!!
Excellent point(y)

Cash cow:
Such as Hal Wallis making A couple Elvis films cheaply in short time... then investing that money in his more "artisitic projects" where scripts, direction and budget were considered important to the process.

[KPM]

Although they do need convention facilities badly I don't think those are first priorities. At least they shouldn't be. The visitors properties like the plaza and Crossing need to be either upgraded or torn down and rebuilt as their top priority. I know the plan was to relocate all of the Elvis attractions next to the mansion on the same side of street as the house, but if that's no longer the plan then they need to stop stalling and start getting it together and build a new visitor's complex somewhere on the grounds for future tourism. They need expanded exhibit space more than anything. If they don't plan on building a new museum/Visitor center anytime soon then shut down the 'Walk A Mile' theater at the plaza and turn it into expanded museum space.
That may be true......but as long as they yearly spotlight something new and different that they have in storage and put it on limited display for a time-that adds to the excitement of visiting over and over.
If everything they have was always on permanent display-what would there be new from time to time?

[vivaelvis]

This is from the Memphis Daily news. It looks like they still plan to do something after all. This thing is like a roller coaster. One minute it's a go then the next it's on hold, then a go again. Anyhow we should know something soon.

Graceland Redevelopment Remains A Priority


Memphis Mayor A C Wharton Jr. plans to roll out his first budget proposal next week to the Memphis City Council.

When he does, the mayor will draw on themes he has emphasized since taking office in October.

One of those is the area around Graceland. Wharton has repeatedly said redeveloping it is one of his administration’s top economic development priorities.

The statement affirms an ambitious plan to promote the Elvis brand worldwide by Robert Sillerman of CKX Inc., the media company that owns 85 percent of Elvis Presley Enterprises.

Since a 2005 unveiling of a $250 million blockbuster remake of the late entertainer’s Memphis home and its surroundings, Sillerman and CKX have suffered like other businesses in the worst national recession since the Great Depression.

The recession has forced Sillerman to scale back plans outside Memphis and rewrite the Memphis plans with more cautious language.

In CKX’s annual report, filed with the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission this week, Sillerman and the company again talked of its goals for Memphis.

“The company remains committed to the Graceland redevelopment and will continue to pursue opportunities on its own or with third parties,” the report reads.

“You won’t recognize Elvis Presley Boulevard in a few years. You won’t recognize that campus.”
– Memphis Mayor A C Wharton Jr.

Before the last line in the annual report about CKX’s commitment to the Memphis part of its plan for the Elvis brand, CKX executives also reported, “The company has determined that there is a strong likelihood that the original preliminary design plans may require significant modifications or abandonment for a redesign due to current economic conditions and a lack of certainty as to exact scope, cost, financing plan and timing of this project.”

Sillerman has met privately with city leaders about the project. He also appeared via a video recording at a 2008 Elvis fan club gathering in Memphis.

Earlier in 2009, CKX took a $900,000 write-off on the preliminary design work for the Graceland remake. The write-off followed the failure in March 2009 by FXRE, the real estate arm of CKX, to make an annual guaranteed minimum royalty payment to EPE.

The issue was settled with a termination of the licensing agreement with EPE to develop one or more hotels at Graceland.

The hotels could still be developed through a third party. CKX still operates the Heartbreak Hotel across the street from the mansion.

In January, Wharton met with Sillerman in New York. Wharton said Sillerman told him CKX is more than committed to a revitalization of the Graceland area.

“You won’t recognize Elvis Presley Boulevard in a few years,” Wharton said earlier this year. “You won’t recognize that campus.”

Wharton also said Sillerman has groused about any doubts the SEC filings have created about his commitment to the Memphis development.

[KPM]

This is from the Memphis Daily news. It looks like they still plan to do something after all. This thing is like a roller coaster. One minute it's a go then the next it's on hold, then a go again. Anyhow we should know something soon.

Graceland Redevelopment Remains A Priority


Memphis Mayor A C Wharton Jr. plans to roll out his first budget proposal next week to the Memphis City Council.

When he does, the mayor will draw on themes he has emphasized since taking office in October.

One of those is the area around Graceland. Wharton has repeatedly said redeveloping it is one of his administration’s top economic development priorities.

The statement affirms an ambitious plan to promote the Elvis brand worldwide by Robert Sillerman of CKX Inc., the media company that owns 85 percent of Elvis Presley Enterprises.

Since a 2005 unveiling of a $250 million blockbuster remake of the late entertainer’s Memphis home and its surroundings, Sillerman and CKX have suffered like other businesses in the worst national recession since the Great Depression.

The recession has forced Sillerman to scale back plans outside Memphis and rewrite the Memphis plans with more cautious language.

In CKX’s annual report, filed with the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission this week, Sillerman and the company again talked of its goals for Memphis.

“The company remains committed to the Graceland redevelopment and will continue to pursue opportunities on its own or with third parties,” the report reads.

“You won’t recognize Elvis Presley Boulevard in a few years. You won’t recognize that campus.”
– Memphis Mayor A C Wharton Jr.

Before the last line in the annual report about CKX’s commitment to the Memphis part of its plan for the Elvis brand, CKX executives also reported, “The company has determined that there is a strong likelihood that the original preliminary design plans may require significant modifications or abandonment for a redesign due to current economic conditions and a lack of certainty as to exact scope, cost, financing plan and timing of this project.”Sillerman has met privately with city leaders about the project. He also appeared via a video recording at a 2008 Elvis fan club gathering in Memphis.

Earlier in 2009, CKX took a $900,000 write-off on the preliminary design work for the Graceland remake. The write-off followed the failure in March 2009 by FXRE, the real estate arm of CKX, to make an annual guaranteed minimum royalty payment to EPE.

The issue was settled with a termination of the licensing agreement with EPE to develop one or more hotels at Graceland.

The hotels could still be developed through a third party. CKX still operates the Heartbreak Hotel across the street from the mansion.

In January, Wharton met with Sillerman in New York. Wharton said Sillerman told him CKX is more than committed to a revitalization of the Graceland area.

“You won’t recognize Elvis Presley Boulevard in a few years,” Wharton said earlier this year. “You won’t recognize that campus.”

Wharton also said Sillerman has groused about any doubts the SEC filings have created about his commitment to the Memphis development.
Well pretty much each new story.... just tells the same old story as it has been to date.
Sillerman complaining about doubts......it comes with the territory of making big plans and then continually revamping, stopping and changing ones mind.

[Donut]

Don't you think Viva Elvis has been a good move on Sillerman's part to promote Elvis? I don't think his legacy needs new hotels or renovations around Graceland to keep going. Maybe the city of Memphis needs them, but his legacy?... I don't think so. We can argue that the Elvis and Celine Dion duet (I didn't like it), and all the American Idol stuff were not appropiate or not in the line of Elvis but, didn't it expose him to a new and wider audience?
I don't know, I can't really say I'm on Sillerman's side and neither can say I'm not, but I think we now are complaining about things that are not done, but we didn't want when they first were announced.
What was done before Sillerman got 85% of EPE? I'm not old enough or been a fan long enough to know. Was Elvis legacy better managed then than now?

[patty]

sillman has money problems. i do not think all this should happen. do need a new hotel; the heartbreak need to be either updated or rebuild, but all the other stuff; theme parks, casino's and a large investment into the Presley empire is a waste. just cheaping Graceland and Elvis.

[vivaelvis]

sillman has money problems. i do not think all this should happen. do need a new hotel; the heartbreak need to be either updated or rebuild, but all the other stuff; theme parks, casino's and a large investment into the Presley empire is a waste. just cheaping Graceland and Elvis.

Robert Sillerman doesn't have money problems. The recession set everyone back including him but he's wealthy enough to overcome it. His networth is said to be around $900 million. CKX is having trouble keeping the stock above $5.00 a share. My theory is that things (the plans for Graceland and Las Vegas)went south when the economy fell apart and investors who were originally on board jumped off in fear that they too would go bankrupt. Therefore putting the Graceland expansion in jeapardy, or at least forcing it to be revised and downsized. I have no doubt that something will get done eventually. It just won't be at the level that they had originally planned.

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

The plans need to be brought to fruition if Sillerman is to be taken seriously, there is profit in the Elvis industry even when other business' are struggling. If Sillerman can't get a few investors on board for an Elvis project his business acumen is seriously in question.. If, as is stated his net worth is $900 million and he is so sure of Elvis, what harm would it be if he completed a small project and reassured the business world that Elvis is a viable concern.

Sillerman needs to put up or shut up IMO.

[vivaelvis]

The plans need to be brought to fruition if Sillerman is to be taken seriously, there is profit in the Elvis industry even when other business' are struggling. If Sillerman can't get a few investors on board for an Elvis project his business acumen is seriously in question.. If, as is stated his net worth is $900 million and he is so sure of Elvis, what harm would it be if he completed a small project and reassured the business world that Elvis is a viable concern.

Sillerman needs to put up or shut up IMO.

Good point and I agree. However, it's not all that simple. There's a lot that goes on behind the scenes that we the public never know or hear about. But it's time for him to either unveil a definitive master plan or announce that it's being scrapped and revised. Let the people who will be putting money into his pockets know something specific and stop dragging it out like a tease. This is why I was against him making it public so soon without having the full details and plans ready from the start.

[KPM]

Robert Sillerman doesn't have money problems. The recession set everyone back including him but he's wealthy enough to overcome it. His networth is said to be around $900 million. CKX is having trouble keeping the stock above $5.00 a share. My theory is that things (the plans for Graceland and Las Vegas)went south when the economy fell apart and investors who were originally on board jumped off in fear that they too would go bankrupt. Therefore putting the Graceland expansion in jeapardy, or at least forcing it to be revised and downsized. I have no doubt that something will get done eventually. It just won't be at the level that they had originally planned.
Stock performance is based upon expected returns which rests on the "faith" investors have in the commodity and it situation.
Compared to you or I-Sillerman does not have money problems..... but to be considered a financial wizard and have this many setbacks in 5 years, (and not just with the Graceland situation)still no plan for Graceland in place or even finalized, suggests he does have problems.
The economy went south in the last year-that had no effect on the prior 4 years-add the the probable year of negotiations and investigation of EPE..... the planning for what to do when the sale was final thats a total of 6 years that Sillerman has had to come up with his course of action and his ultimate plans. I pointed out that no one spends the money he spent without first having advisors have a plan of action ready for the acquired business or commodity-it would be foolish not to. Thats like saying you buy a dozen producing oil wells and then go-now what?
No one with any sense acts in this way..... before you buy those wells, you would first see what can be done to modernize the wells (if needed) to maximise efficiency and reduce cost of operation, you check out which refinery gives the best price and will cost you the least to ship it there, you find buyers to buy the refined oil or gasolene for the best price and then you use this info to make your deal and to be ready to hit the ground full speed ahead with what you have learned.
I am fairly confident Sillerman had others checking out EPE and learning all the things they would need to make the purchase and in the process sell EPE on their ideas for the future-you have pointed out EPE was looking for someone to take it to the next level of success and they would have had to be sold on he plans. Purhaps the plans were made to sound very straight forward and simple to accomplish as a selling point to seal the deal with Lisa, Priscilla and the heads of EPE. If thats the case Sillerman and his people have no one to blame but themselves for the stalling and stop start scenario we've seen till now.

[KPM]

The plans need to be brought to fruition if Sillerman is to be taken seriously, there is profit in the Elvis industry even when other business' are struggling. If Sillerman can't get a few investors on board for an Elvis project his business acumen is seriously in question.. If, as is stated his net worth is $900 million and he is so sure of Elvis, what harm would it be if he completed a small project and reassured the business world that Elvis is a viable concern.

Sillerman needs to put up or shut up IMO.
Exactly the point I have been trying to show. It seems as if buying the 85% was done almost in some blind fashion-that he bought the share and then said "What Now?"
Because all the areas that keep being pointed to as "reasons the plans have not been made clear" are all things that should have been completely investigated when the idea of buying 85% of EPE was first thought of.
If they were not-it shows poor planning, poor management. No one spends this kind of money without knowing the situation inside and out-and planning for the day that you seal the deal.

[vivaelvis]

Graceland-Area Improvements on Track

Memphis Mayor A C Wharton Jr. said his administration hopes to complete all of the paperwork necessary to begin some public improvements along Elvis Presley Boulevard in Whitehaven by July 1.

The improvements would be the beginning of an ambitious remake of Graceland by CKX, the Robert Sillerman-run company that owns 85 percent of Elvis Presley Enterprises.

Sillerman intends to keep the Presley mansion as it is. But he also plans to move the plaza across the street to adjoining property on the same side of the boulevard as Graceland. The land where the plaza is now would be developed with hotels and other attractions.

“We’re committed to have every piece of paper run and done on July 1. Bob Sillerman has committed to that,” Wharton said. “We’ll be coming to you. You’ll see some changes in the budget, particularly in the CIP (Capital Improvement Projects). … We’ve got to have everything wrapped up and ready to go.”

[KPM]

Graceland-Area Improvements on Track

Memphis Mayor A C Wharton Jr. said his administration hopes to complete all of the paperwork necessary to begin some public improvements along Elvis Presley Boulevard in Whitehaven by July 1.

The improvements would be the beginning of an ambitious remake of Graceland by CKX, the Robert Sillerman-run company that owns 85 percent of Elvis Presley Enterprises.

Sillerman intends to keep the Presley mansion as it is. But he also plans to move the plaza across the street to adjoining property on the same side of the boulevard as Graceland. The land where the plaza is now would be developed with hotels and other attractions.

“We’re committed to have every piece of paper run and done on July 1. Bob Sillerman has committed to that,” Wharton said. “We’ll be coming to you. You’ll see some changes in the budget, particularly in the CIP (Capital Improvement Projects). … We’ve got to have everything wrapped up and ready to go.”
Similar to other statements made in the last 5 years-hope this time its not just rhetoric.
The proof when announcements are made are not in the announcements-they are in the actions and execution that follows.

[Donut]

Could this be true? :hmm:

CKX says it's in talks to sell Elvis rights, firm

MARKET PULSE
March 29, 2010, 8:40 a.m. EDT


By Steve Gelsi

NEW YORK (MarketWatch) -- CKX Inc. said Monday it's in talks regarding a possible transaction involving the sale of the company, which carries a market capitalization of $500 million. CKX Inc. owns the rights to the name, image and likeness of Elvis Presley, the operations of Graceland, the rights to the name, image and likeness of Muhammad Ali and proprietary rights to the Idols television brand, including the American Idol series in the U.S. New York-based CKX said there can be no assurance that a deal will be reached.

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/ckx-says-its-in-talks-to-sell-elvis-rights-firm-2010-03-29

[vivaelvis]

Could this be true? :hmm:

CKX says it's in talks to sell Elvis rights, firm

MARKET PULSE
March 29, 2010, 8:40 a.m. EDT


By Steve Gelsi

NEW YORK (MarketWatch) -- CKX Inc. said Monday it's in talks regarding a possible transaction involving the sale of the company, which carries a market capitalization of $500 million. CKX Inc. owns the rights to the name, image and likeness of Elvis Presley, the operations of Graceland, the rights to the name, image and likeness of Muhammad Ali and proprietary rights to the Idols television brand, including the American Idol series in the U.S. New York-based CKX said there can be no assurance that a deal will be reached.

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/ckx-says-its-in-talks-to-sell-elvis-rights-firm-2010-03-29

This is nothing to worry about. This is what they (CKX) have been trying to do for years now, is to go private. Right now CKX is a public company which means outsiders can invest into their stock. The plan for the buyout, assuming it happens, would take the company private which would allow it to grow more successfully. Elvis' naming rights or operations of Graceland are in no danger with this potential buyout. If anything it will only benefit the Elvis brand for future developments should it happen.

[vivaelvis]

Similar to other statements made in the last 5 years-hope this time its not just rhetoric.
The proof when announcements are made are not in the announcements-they are in the actions and execution that follows.

Not really. This is the first time that an actual set date for contracts and paperwork to be finalized on the redevelopment have been given publicly. I think this is a good sign that things are about to get rolling. If not by EPE at least by the city and state. Congressman Steve Cohen is also asking for government earmarks to cover costs up to $17 million additional dollars on the improvements along Elvis Presley Boulevard from East Brooks to Winchester. In my opinion had it not had been for the worst recession since the great depression of the 1940's this redevelopment and improvements would have already been underway.

[KPM]

Not really. This is the first time that an actual set date for contracts and paperwork to be finalized on the redevelopment have been given publicly. I think this is a good sign that things are about to get rolling. If not by EPE at least by the city and state. Congressman Steve Cohen is also asking for government earmarks to cover costs up to $17 million additional dollars on the improvements along Elvis Presley Boulevard from East Brooks to Winchester. In my opinion had it not had been for the worst recession since the great depression of the 1940's this redevelopment and improvements would have already been underway.
Actual dates perhaps true-but not positive statements of "going to get something done quickly"-someone else years ago use to post any and all statements made by officials in Memphis or from Sillermans camp-and I'm sure if I seached the threads from 3-4 years back I could find similar announcements made.....which came to nothing since posted.....except wasted space.
Skeptical people are encouraged to be that way-when things are hinted at-or political double speak is used to say something which means nothing in truth....and this has been used since this sale was completed.
"It is totally unimportant"- because in the last 5 years since the sale-Elvis's estate has prospered and it has grown largely due to the talent of Elvis Presley not the mayors announcements, not Sillermans ineffectiveness and lack of foresight in taking over his image.
If Memphis is waiting for action to clean up the city and to make it safer that falls into the hands leaders of the city, who were elected to do such things not EPE or Sillerman. That should be a concern to EPE and Sillerman-but its not their responsibility to be the "center of such a cleanup" by way of Graceland expansion. Sillerman has had over 5 years to get his expansion plans set in concrete-and the city of Memphis has had the entire history of the city to make it cleaner, safer, and a better place to live for its citizens. The 2 things are indendent of each other-and should not be dependent on the other. IMO

As far as the worst recession since the depression being a reason for inaction-it just does not hold water for the years 2005, 2006, 2007 and into 2008....the city could have acted, Sillerman could have acted during those years, the city could have began a redevelopement project in any year since Elvis died or before for that matter. The recession is now a factor but not for this entire time frame.