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Almost Elvis On Top Of The Pops

January 21, 2005 | Music
Top of the Pop's UK has just finished and it was said live on telivision by the duo presenters of the BBC that: "Due to the fact that EP USA was unwilling to provide the BBC original Elvis material for this unique moment, the BBC has to settle with the leadsinger of the Jailhouse Rock musical cast here in Britain" according to a posting on the FECC messageboard. This is what it looked like.
Source:For Elvis CD Collectors Forum
Jim Semple wrote on January 21, 2005
F**k EPE. That's my opinion. End of.
Viva wrote on January 21, 2005
Well, I watched it from start to finish and it was every bit as bad as I thought it would be. Completely and utterly EMBARRASING. The guy singing? sounded like every other pissed up guy at a karaoke as far as I'm concerned. There is nothing positive to be gleaned from this whole sorry episode. The band sounded empty, and the singer sang an Elvis song which only Elvis could do justice to. I am still in a state of shock, once again Elvis is a joke. EPE where are you? hang your heads in shame, how dare you claim to protect Elvis' image when you are quite prepared to have one of his greatest achievements portrayed on tv in this degrading fashion. And the final insult? at the end they scolled across the screen "No1 - One Night, Jailhouse Rock the musical" - no mention of Elvis! I'm off to stick needles in dolls of EPE management. And before anyone says "If it was that bad, why did you watch it?" You can't criticise what you haven't seen. I've seen it, and I can confidently claim that I would have had more pleasure in attaching my testicles to a pair of charging elephants.
roytcbintheuk wrote on January 21, 2005
what a joke it could only happen to elvis and his fans
data wrote on January 21, 2005
Elvis: Look what they have done to your song.
Sean Ryan wrote on January 21, 2005
Almost Elvis ? That was the tackest thing i have ever seen. It really was an insult to Elvis.No wonder Top Of The Pops is gonna end soon. I mean, i dont wanna put Mario down cause we all know what would have happened if he said 'I dont want to do it' .They would have got someone else to insult Elvis and his fans. I would rather have them girl dancers (like the ones they used in the 70's ) to dance around to the original. Thing that gets me as well is as they were doing the top ten countdown and they got to No.10 ,they played abit of the orig.version of JR ,but when it was No.1 last week they played the 68 special version.Duh!
Digger wrote on January 21, 2005
That´s not true isn´t it? Please tell me that´s a bade joke?!?! EPE is still not willing to allow a clip and so an Elvis-Copy is singing it? WHAT A SHAME! I hope that EPE will be treated the same way as they do with the loyal fans. someday, somehow! I really hope so! What a shame! :-(
Neckywoudje wrote on January 21, 2005
No way! This is exactly the thing that gives the public a wrong view on Elvis Presley and his fans. I hate impersonators so much! And now, they even show them on TV! It's even worse than...never mind.
2001 wrote on January 21, 2005
I think this is the biggest insult to Elvis, and his fans.
pasa-ryu wrote on January 21, 2005
e.p.e. has let down the uk fans by not allowing elvis footage to be used for each single release,part from this awful fact elvis still out-sold his nearest rivals y 9-1 and managed to reach no.1 yet again/i was appauled to see on top of the pops them having to use an elvis imperonator(which was nothing like him)-elvis is selling despite of all this lack of support-us the loyal fans./well done elvis for shutting up the deroggrative remarks and critical words by the media.
Sidewinder wrote on January 21, 2005
I can only echo what everybody else thinks on this subject but I would like to add; I emailed TOTP and asked them to reconsider their decision but to no avail and without the courtesy of a reply.However, I wonder if Madonna or George Michael had claimed the 1000th number 1 whether TOTP would have kept it so low key? Even when Robbie subjects us to his latest dirge TOTP do a feature and profile for weeks before and kiss ass like true professionals. But they ignored The King in the 60s and seemed to make a bit of an effort in the 70s to give him airtime, because of his longevity I presume, since then TOTP2 is Elvis' domain in their reckoning ( Good on yer! Steve Wright). Suffice to say long after Andi Peters and his dedicated follower of fashion cronies have shuffled off to Smashey and Nicey land in the sky, with the fly by night 6 week wonders they champion, The King will still be chartbound in one form or another and loved and respected by discerning popular music fans the world over. Elvis is, and always will be, Number 1 Forever.
DDH wrote on January 22, 2005
An email to EPE, okay, so you have fallin' out with the uk's bbc, and the royal uk fans are the ones to suffer, after our long long wait to see ep at the top of the greatest singles chart in the world. so why not arrange a program with their itv rivals playing ALL the uk #1's and showing footage of Elvis were possible. Here we go; 1- All Shook Up Start the show with the listing of the credits. 2- Jailhouse Rock Footage from the film 3- One Night Footage from the '68 Tv show 4- A Fool Such As I Footage from 56 & 57 Tv shows 5- It’s Now or Never Pictures of Elvis between 59 & 60's 6- Are You Lonesome Tonight? Use footage of 'Laughin' verson' 7- Wooden Heart Footage from GI Blues 8- Surrender Shots of Elvis from Follow that Dream & Flaming Star 9- His Latest Flame Shots of Elvis during 61 &62 10-Can’t Help Falling in Love Footage from Blue Hawaii 11-Good Luck Charm Shots of Elvis from Kid Galahad 12-She's Not You -Pictures of Elvis, Gracelands, etc 13-Return to Sender Footage from Girls Girls Girls 14-Devil in Disguise Shots from Kissin Cousins 15-Crying in the Chapel Shots of Elvis between 63 & 66 16 The Wonder of You Footage from 'Elvis, the Concert' 17 Way Down Various pictures of Elvis from 54 to 77 18 A Little Less Conversation Final credits - with thanks to the Uk fans for keeping Elvis's memory ALIVE. There you are. If you can agree with one Tv station just go to their rivals. Others do it.
get real wrote on January 22, 2005
"F**k EPE. That's my opinion. End of." Well said Jim. EPE really suck just as we have gotten everyone past the impersonator image of Elvis,, EPE allows this to happen EPE, i cant explain how much hatered you have stirred up among the fans.
pacer1965 wrote on January 22, 2005
This has proved a point EPE dont give a s*** about the fans.I will not be watching totp anymore either. I dont know what to say anyone I am so shocked. I dont like to say this but i wish Elvis did not get the 1000th no 1 now. I cannot believe what i have just seen on totp. I will not be going to Graceland because I would feel like i would not be welcome over there anymore. I never thought i would say this but i hate you EPE !
Eddie White wrote on January 22, 2005
Jim Sermple: You Know I agree with you on most things. Maybe great minds think alike. What do you think we should now do as an Elvis community to register our abject diapproval of EPE. For instance can we as a community,i.e ElvisNews send our strongest disapproval as to what has happened? Do you, like myself, and countless Elvis fans, think that they have acted in a disaffectial way to the extent that true Elvis fans have been sickened by their totally negative approach to what should have been a memorable and historic day. Personaly from whatever source, I would be a party to any statement to support this view from whatever source. I think we should collectively stand up and be counted. I think that ElvisNews should now register our disapproval of EPE over the broadcasting issue and demand that they put things right. I, like most of you am astounded by the intracabilty of EPE. We have created a monster. Please, let us all rally together and pressure EPE on this issue
Jim Semple wrote on January 22, 2005
Eddie - what I would love to do, is simply never buy anything or have anything to do with EPE ever again, anything where they will benefit from us fans. In an ideal world, all the fans who think like us, should boycott every single future project. Perhaps then, when the EPE accountants do their end of year figures, they will realise how much money they have lost through their own need for greed, which at the end of the day, is the root of all these disputes. The problem with my theory, is that we love Elvis too much, and we wouldn't want Elvis to suffer in anyway, either in sales figures but more importantly his popularity. We love his music, and that would be the only reason, why I would probably end up buying a future DVD or CD or visit Graceland. I would do that just for Elvis and quite happily stick two fingers up at EPE at the same time. Yes, I think, we need some sort of online petition and for it to be brought to the attention of the EPE hierarchy with immediate effect. Of course, they will issue a statement blaming the BBC and quoting all sorts of things, but at the end of the day, if they really had wanted too, they could have resolved this amicably some time ago. But as Todd Slaughter said recently, EPE will be so jealous of the UK success because, despite all the exposure they give Elvis in the USA (we all know, outside USA, there is little promotion), he is no where near as popular over there, as he is in the UK and Europe, so they will not break their backs over it. You can bet your bottom dollar, if Elvis had the US 1000th Number One and their was a dispute with ABC, CBS or whoever, it would have been resolved in days, and EPE would have granted as much footage as the television companies wanted. Action definately needs to be taken, but from what i have seen of Lisa Marie and the way she conducts herself, I would imagine she will be setting fire to our emails / letters and not losing one ounce of sleep. Can Elvis News start a petition ? Lets hope they are not afraid to rock the boat and join us in what has been an absolute PR disaster for Elvis tonight.
Viva wrote on January 22, 2005
Eddie white - sounds like a great idea, does anyone out there have the facilities and the knowhow to put together a petition of some kind? I'm not sure the folks at elvis news would want such a task, after all they are supposed to be independant. We need an intelligent well written letter/e-mail with lots of names attached. I don't have the answers for that one, but if it's support anyone wants, I'm with you all the way. While on the subject of Elvisnews, I would just like to say a big, big thank you to you guys for letting us vent our anger on this subject - it's been very therapeutic. Jim Semple - I couldn't have put it better myself.
Aaron24 wrote on January 22, 2005
Tonight was my most emabarassing night as a fan of Elvis. I've had numerous phone calls / texts from friends taking the p*ss out of me for tonight's show - what an absolute disgrace - what a wasted opporunity to highlight one of Elvis' great performances - ie. the Comeback Special version of One Night. This whole UK 18 No. 1's "promotion" is turning into a PR disaster - many people are upset that Elvis is the 1000th No.1 with such poor sales - well tonight was the night to prove the entire UK wrong with some fabulous footage - except it didn't quite happen that way. TOTP played down the 1000th number 1 all night. I can barely remember them mentioning it in the show - they were clearly unhappy that Elvis was number 1 - how many more bridges can EPE burn? And then they bring on a very average singer with a very average band. Did anyone else hear the crowd cheering when he tried the more intensive parts of the song - imagine how they would have reacted with the real thing? No disrespect to the impersonator but he couldn't even hit the simplest of notes at the end of the day. Sad but true. I feel like giving up altogether on EPE but I find myself unable to do it cos' I love Elvis so much. Oh well, it's not like EPE care - they don't make much money from these singles - I'm sure they're quite happy selling their tacky jumpsuits and other cr*ppy merchandise (if you don't believe me, go into Shop Elvis on elvis.com). I'm watching the comeback special as I type - trying to restore my faith in Elvis. Sorry if this has turned into a rant guys - it's not like me - it's just the way I feel tonight - I pray that not one more of these singles hit No. 1 as I can't take another night like tonight.
Viva wrote on January 22, 2005
For what it's worth, here's what I just sent EPE: "Elvis fans over here are absolutley furious with the fiasco of what should have been a truly magical event. We have had to endure an IMPERSONATOR singing One Night on a national TV programme watched by millions of teenagers. EPE where are you? hang your heads in shame, how dare you claim to protect Elvis' image when you are quite prepared to have one of his greatest achievements portrayed on tv in this degrading fashion. And the final insult? at the end they scrolled across the screen "No1 - One Night, Jailhouse Rock the musical" - no mention of Elvis! All you had to do was let them show a poxy video clip, but no, stubborness and pride have ruined a golden opportunity to reach millions of young potential fans. Or, to put it in terms you'll understand, a chance to make more money. This was the 1000th uk no1, and Elvis' 20th - how could you squander this chance? The programme made it quite clear that EPE would not give them permission to show a video and that's why they resorted to using an impersonator. This is FREE publicity we're talking about, what is wrong with you folks? This has left a bitter taste in the mouths of us fans. You really should pay attention to what's being said, the fans really do feel let down on this one." Don't suppose they give a shit, but It's better than punching my blow up Col. Parker. (Yes, I did make that last bit up)
RobIreland wrote on January 22, 2005
Remember our private Elvis ? the one we listened to on our own. Lets go back to our private Elvis and forget this public humiliation.
Eddie White wrote on January 22, 2005
Rob, I'm sorry but I don't think this is going to blow away. I'll tell you what I think the best thing to do is not to throw bricks at EPE or the BBc but instead try to find someone who will listen to us and be sympathetic to our cause. The biggest selling paper in Memphis is 'The Commercial Appeal' who regularly print articles on Elvis. I think we should contact the Editor with our views who, will no doubt, find our protestations to merit interst. They have got their own website and this should not present a problem. Wouldn't it be great if our views were to be taken up and printed in this newspaper. What do you all think.
Eddie White wrote on January 22, 2005
By the way, when I say we should'nt throw bricks at EPE meant to say that we should throw boulders.
dailyone wrote on January 22, 2005
look epe didnt want to show the clips so lets give the kid a go . he must have been rapped to step into the shoes of elvis for a few moments . i havent seen the clip and will never but at least someone is trying to get it over to the public . that is on a positive side but did top of the pops bbc have a go at epe and put him on as a joke . if so not only the fans but the poor bloke has or might have been set up . lets hope not.try to positive and england ram it home to em baby and buy buy buy for the next hit single .
Kenneth wrote on January 22, 2005
I think Jim Semple puts it all together very nicely, if only epe. could really get the message.but do they want to??.
get real wrote on January 22, 2005
i think that the worst part about this is the the 68 show where Elvis sings One Night is one of the best clips of him ever, and it could really have brought in many new converts. It is Elvis at his best, and instead we got an impersonator. Amazing. What a lost oppertunity for us all.
Elvis girl wrote on January 22, 2005
I too saw TOTP. said to my husband who watched it with me that EPE should be totally ashamed of themselves, Elvis has the honour of not only being number 1 again but also the fact that he has the 100oth number 1 counts for a lot it means a great deal to all of us fans etc therefore we should have at least had the pleasure of seeing him perform One Night and not some one trying to sound and look like him.
Sidewinder wrote on January 22, 2005
I have just emailed TOTP again telling them of my disgust with their lack of respect for The King and I advise other fans to do the same. After you send it save your email as TOTP send you a feedback posting -reply to this with your saved email; I think you have more chance of getting through this way.
roytcbintheuk wrote on January 22, 2005
i have emailed the bbc about showing an elvis impersonator on their show instead of showing elvis footage due to unresolved issues.I outlined that as a tv licence payer i expect first class viewing and i am afraid that fridays viewing of totp did not fall into that criteria.i also asked them to put this right by resolving the issues with epe and for them to do an elvis special on totp with elvis footage this time.so i suggest that everyone puts an email together and send it to the bbc a thousand voices is better than one and we may get something done why should we put up with it its up to us as fans to protect elvis`s legacy because epe are not going to do it.
Flippar1954 wrote on January 22, 2005
We Got Stung bigtime, karaoke on TOTP. As for TOTP's latest debacle, listen carefully and you can hear the Colonel's laughter from that hot place he resides in. whatever stupid idea comes next? Perhaps EPE should consider ditching the video material from the next El concert tour and putting this latest karaoke clown onstage instead . The empty theatres would hit EPE where it hurts them most, in their pockets. Bring on the dancing chickens Back to Bilko and Fort Baxter
RobIreland wrote on January 22, 2005
On ITVs Chart UK show Cat Deeley just read out an email "Im already bored of Elvi dont think i can stand hearing my dad singing his songs for the next two months" This has done Elvis so much damage. Im off to play my U2 cds now.
RobIreland wrote on January 22, 2005
For the people who can really appreciate Elvis "Top of the pops" Saturday morning has just ended and represented Elvis with an animated pupet based on a terrible impersonetor swinging his arm dressed in white suit , large hair and over sized sunglasses. No performance of the number one. This is the pits.
job wrote on January 22, 2005
It could have been worse because he could have been Gary Glitter
James69 wrote on January 22, 2005
Screw EPE and their glass eye! My boy! My boy! And I don't even live in the UK! I am Canadian, and feel so bad for Elvis fans all over the world. EPE is full of crap.......
Stacey75 wrote on January 22, 2005
EPE can kiss my grits. LOL. I am so ashamed.Happy that Elvis is back on top in the UK, but so ashamed of what EPE is doing. This really sucks hard.
Viva wrote on January 22, 2005
Rob_Irish, please tell me you're kidding. I thought Cat Deeley was a fan. This whole thing is just getting worse. Who could have thought that Elvis making chart history would have been so embarrassing, oh well we shouldn't be surprised really, look at the muppets in charge. Roytcbintheuk, you are absolutely right, I have already sent e-mails to both epe and totp and there'll be a few more from me before the week's out. EVERYONE needs to bombard these cretins with as much "feedback" as is humanly possible, we can't allow this slur on Elvis' legacy pass without letting them know how disgusted we are.
roytcbintheuk wrote on January 22, 2005
viva i have just emailed the sun newspaper the more people who are aware of the feelings of the fans the better and the more people who complain even better they may take some action if not we have give it a good try get emailing !
emjel wrote on January 22, 2005
We can fire off as many e-mails to EPE as we like, complaining about their lack of thought for us fans. But why don't you all fire off as many e-mails to the BBC, after all, it was really their fault by breaking a contractual agreement, that this happened in the first place. Telephone and ask for the Duty Officer if you like. Don't forget, you pay your license fee to the BBC, not EPE. What other agreements are the BBC breaking? Secondly, I think it's a good idea to send e-mails to mid-road papers such as Mail and Express rather than The Sun. The Sun will probably treat it as a joke.
RobIreland wrote on January 22, 2005
Viva its true im sad to say. First of all she said "Elvis has being partying like its 1959 on the chart show recently", then dropped her head and give a wee snigger , then came the email. Wish I could blast Wearin that loved on look or Power of my love in their faces, the bunch of arrogent ignorent gits !
Eddie White wrote on January 22, 2005
Todd Slaughter: Todd, I know you this message board because you have contributed to recent issues by posting messages. Myself,like everyone else takes keen interset in your valuable contributions. I wonder if you could relay to EPE our utter dissatisfaction about the BBC's handling of the 1000th No.1 brought about, what everyone thinks, is EPE intransegence to have settled its grievences with the BBC. I don't have to tell you, and EPE also know, that the British fan club base is one of the strongest and most respected anywhere in the world. All Elvis British fans deserve better from an organision (EPE) who would not exist without its loyal fans. I am sure that you will or have read all the messages posted on this matter and be sympathetic to swell of ill feeling.
pacer1965 wrote on January 22, 2005
I have been sending emails to the bbc as have alot of the fans here have. But maybe we should all start sending emails to ITV as well and ask them why they are not showing footage of Elvis either. Rob I am glad i did not watch cd:uk then. I am already embarrased about totps Elvis fans will be the laughing stock of the uk.Please somebody lock me away and thow away the key !
emjel wrote on January 22, 2005
QUESTION. How did the BBC show the video extracts from Change of Habit for Rubberneckin'? Was this a video commissioned by BMG? If so, why couldn't BMG get involved with a similar project this time? Maybe do a couple of vidoes covering the 50's for the first 4 singles etc. Did EPE have to give clearance for the video screening for Rubberneckin? I don't have the answers - but it's food for thought.
emjel wrote on January 22, 2005
I am sure Todd knows the feelings of fans via this website. But does anyone know the website and e-mail addresses of the OEPFC. I've only managed to locate an on-line shop which at the moment seems to be non-active. As the OEPFC would seem to be an appropriate place to voice the feelings of fans, I find it strange not to have a proper site. PS I am trying to find a way of re-joining the club.
MauriceColgan wrote on January 22, 2005
Not excusing Graceland/EPE or Sony/BMG. By releasing Elvis Presley's 1959 classic song "One Night" January 2005 Sony/BMG helped to secure the historic 1,000th Number One on the official British music chart for the world's most loved singer, Elvis Presley. It was broadcast on the chart show BBC1 radio, Sunday 16th January. On hearing the news, Elvis fans were jubilant. We eagerly looked forward to the BBC's Top of the Pops television programme which would copper fasten the amazing result by featuring Elvis's great recording. Friday night 21st January 2005 the British Broadcasting Company with appalling insensitivity used an Elvis Impersonator to sing the song! Millions witnessed this insult to Elvis fans world-wide. A case of total misrepresentation. Akin to a pub pianist being used as a stand in for the great Russian Concert Pianist, Sviatoslav Richter. Inadvertently the BBC has provided the late Elvis Presley with priceless publicity. Elvis was number 1 AND number 10 on their music chart! The already booming sales of his wonderful CDs are now sure to take a quantum leap. Elvis's "A Fool Such as I" by all acounts is looking Hot? Top ten anyway!
Son Of Mark 64 wrote on January 22, 2005
WHAT can I say its all a load of rubbish. they should just play the song with photos of ELVIS what the bbc and itv have done is just not good enough two no1 singles and more on the way what a way to treat the memory of ELVIS. Lets hope todd can do something about this mess who else can we turn for help only the OEPFC of GB (Could they not show the clip of todd meeting Elvis which is some where out they sure todd wouldnt mind)
Jim Semple wrote on January 22, 2005
Maurice - sadly, lots of negative publicity. I've had so much stick off friends and so on, think we're a laughing stock. Tragedy.
Ton Bruins wrote on January 22, 2005
EPE shame on you!
smbclc wrote on January 22, 2005
As a long term Elvis fan I am disappointed at the ongoing dispute between EPE and the BBC. What an achievement for Elvis to be number 1 again, but EPE are doing themselves and the reputation of Elvis no favours by refusing to allow footage of Elvis to be shown. It is time they showed the fans some respect and allowed footage of the real thing instead of which we had to endure a very poor second best on TOTP which certainly did nothing for the reputation of Elvis!
Elvis Express wrote on January 22, 2005
After the way we the fans have been treated, the two main Elvis groups in the UK. The OEPFC and Essential Elvis should inform EPE that they no longer want to be associated them and show EPE who is actually paying them there HUGH salary......THE FANS.
Aaron24 wrote on January 22, 2005
Rob_Irish, I think you're being a wee bit unfair on Cat Deeley - all she did was read out on e-mail which actually had a mixed reaction from the audience. CD:Uk is largely aimed at a young audience and the e-mail was probably representative of a large number of their feelings. Cat seemed more than happy mentioning "Elvis fans partying like it's 1959" in what I took as a positive manner and on various CD:UK show's has professed her love for Elvis. Before Speedway on TCM tonight there was a five minute interview with her where she expressed her complete love and adoration for the man. Elvis has his critics but Cat is certainly not one of them. It's great to have a young, "hip" (and bloody sexy) fan like her spreading the word of Elvis to the younger generation.
Damian wrote on January 22, 2005
Like A lot of fans I watched the TOTP fiasco, although when it comes to impersonators I've seen a lot worse. I thought it was a decent comment by the presenter Fern to say she had her fingers crossed for Elvis to make it 3 no. 1's in a row. I think there is really a bit too much negativity creeping in and suspect that there are a lot of music fans out there of artists that have never had anything like the success of Elvis who would give anything to have their favourite acts at the top of the charts.My young kids can't believe that he's having all these hits now and despite the problems let's not lose sight of the fact that once again history is being made by our favourite, and that that will be remembered and recorded long after TOTP's has disappeared to BBC 27 or wherever. TOTP is simply not the force it was years ago and a look at the viewing figures will confirm that
MauriceColgan wrote on January 22, 2005
Jim Semple, I have Heard it all a thousand times.All the mockery from friends. But Elvis could be number one again tomorrow or at least in the top five! Let them laugh at that! The general public's perception of Elvis is he is, "The Stand Alone Icon of the 20th Century", and this one too now:-) Just as I'm typing a Mitsubishi TV ad on UK Channel4 has a guy doing his best to sound like Elvis. This is definitely going to be the year Elvis Presley reigns supreme again (Dead!) Yet there is hardly a child in the world who does not know his name. As for the OEPFC Don't hold your breath:-)
SendToTodd wrote on January 22, 2005
On Friday I sent the following eMail to Todd Morgan and Jack Soden: Gentlemen, This is not me telling you how to "suck eggs" believe me. We always want to help you guys, though sometimes you appear to throw it back in our faces. For the second week running the presenters on the world's most famous music show TOP OF THE POPS concluded that once again the Elvis Presley Estate had refused permission to screen footage of Elvis. I understand you have an age-old dispute with the BBC, but can you really afford not to be part of the 1000th UK number 1 show - co-hosted in part by British Prime Minister Tony Blair? EPE needs the BBC as a friend, they don't need you, they really don't. This January in Memphis would have been dead without the Brits. You can always count on the support of the UK fans, but that support is wearing thin with your refusal to honour Elvis on TOTP. Some have already said that they will never visit Graceland again, or put money into EPEs pockets. The only people who will profit from this impass will be your detractors and your lawyers, so please try and sort this out in time for next weeks programme". I don't know if my words will do any good, but I thought it worth a try. I have read some of the comments about the use of Elvis footage in the video for Rubberneckin'. As this track was a remix EPE does get a royalty on sale, so it is in their interest to agree to Elvis film to be used in the music video. The use of Elvis film clips on TOTPs has always been a problem going back to the 60's, so it is no surprise that this is happening today.
SendToTodd wrote on January 22, 2005
As a PS to my previous comments, a couple of you asked why the OEPFC doesn't have a pro-active web site like ElvisNews. The answer is simple - ElvisNews to my thinking is the best in the world, so we don't need another one. Anyway, I'm not clever enough to construct a web-site of such complexity - I can just about manage to switch on my computer. You guys in Holland are doing a wonderful job, and you deserve our heartfelt thanks and support.
roytcbintheuk wrote on January 22, 2005
well said todd i have actually spent most of the day putting my views across to EPE,BBC,the sun newspaper the whole shooting match via email because i am livid with the callous way elvis as been treated i listened to a documentary on radio 2 and one of the officials from sony/bmg said that they wanted to do something special for elvis`s 70th birthday and the one thing the fans liked is to see elvis in the charts yes this is correct but now i feel due to EPE and the media the whole event as been devalued and turned into a farce.i have always been cynical when it comes to EPE because if you are a fan and have visited graceland you will know what i mean as most of the products on sale are utter rubbish unless you go to "the pink shops" which at this moment in time does not have epe hands all over it but i guess this will change in the future when the lease is up but i have excused them for this as they have wages to pay.I have been to graceland twice and have spoke with people who new and lived with elvis and now call it "disgraceland" even the staff have left who are fans patsy anderson in charge of fan public relations left in 2004 why oh why is this happening this would have been an ideal opportunity for EPE to put behind them the problems they have had with the bbc and grab the bull by the horns and take advantage of this by promoting elvis this intern bringing in the dollars to EPE and protecting elvis`s legacy and keep the customers happy,the fans all i can say from now on if i see a signature product hologram i will avoid it because this shows that they are only interested in making money and not protecting elvis`s legacy why hasnt lisa stepped in i know if it was my father i would have i thought that this sellout by lisa was to protect elvis`s legacy well say no more .EPE if you are reading this act now give the fans what they want you have nothing to lose but all to gain if you dont you will see your profits tumble as i for one will not visit graceland out of respect for a man i did not have the pleasure to have met or see live in concert but i have been a fan for 32 years.
Viva wrote on January 23, 2005
Well said Todd. I'm not quite sure what your business relationship is like with that lot, but you bring 'em a lot of bucks so maybe they'll listen to you. Does anyone know where BMG figure in all this, I mean it's their product as well. Perhaps the revenue generated from these limited edition singles, does not make a video of any description viable once EPE have stuck their price tag on it. Christ, these guys make Col Parker look like a charity worker.
RobIreland wrote on January 23, 2005
Todd and everyone else i'v had enough of all your pathatic elongated excuses ! Ask yourself this question. Why the hell did BMG or whatever the ----theyr called put all their energy into producing and releasing these singles if they didnt have everything thats invovled with such a project sorted and in control !? Who the ---- do they think theyr kidding . Any other record company would have had every angel covererd. They are using us , Elvis people they are giving us no respect and taking our money, fuc- them all , stop buying from them !
Eddie White wrote on January 23, 2005
Elvis Presley Enterprises. Read and inwardly digest the postings on this site. King George slayed the dragon and, if you do not take notice, then Elvis fans in the UK will do likewise . You survive because of a European fan base who idolise Elvis. We spend thousands of your dollars to uphhold the lasting image of Elvis knowing at the same time that Memphis is being regenerated from the seedy place it used to be way back when I first visited in 1979.Without the tourism and product spending of overseas fans you would be out on your heels. Do not be detached from our views. On the contrary you should now act to put matters right by proving to British fans that you are not a money consuming and uncaring monster. Jack Soden or Todd Morgan, if you're listening I hope this message drives home. TCB does not mean to the exclusion of Elvis's fans.
MauriceColgan wrote on January 23, 2005
Crying over spilt milk is pointless. Use your e-mail to make sure the BBC debacle does not happen again. Lately Elvis Presley Mania in the media because of the singles has produced a huge amount of publicity. We can build on that and make this year the one, Elvis is Back. Back at the top where he always belonged.
SendToTodd wrote on January 23, 2005
A guy rang the office a couple of days ago crying his eyes out because he couldn't buy "A Fool Such As I". He was sobbing his socks off, and I had to say, "Look it's not the end of the world, you will complete your collection one day. At least you are not in the Far East burying your dead." He replied "I buried my mother last week, and I've cried more over this single than my mum." I have to conclude that this is now getting out of hand. Some tit said on this page "What an awful time to be an Elvis Fan". Get a grip - three number ones in a row and you call that an awful time? For as long as I've been an Elvis fan (and I'm 60 this year) it would appear that we have to have people to hate. First it was the Colonel, then Priscilla, then the Memphis mafia, always RCA, then the film companies and now Lisa, TOTP, and EPE. And I'm on the hate list as well! (And I know why you hate me because I danced on the first edition of TOTP and you didn't - so there!) What I would like to know is where were you all when "Elvis That's The Way Is Is - Special Edition" was given a theatrical release across the UK? I must have seen it in the cinema a dozen times, but for the most part there were only three of us in the theatre. And where were you when "Suspicious Minds" was released as a single? That got air-play and video support. I would hate to think that we are now only interested in the limited editions because they have the potential to increase in value. Todd Slaughter
Elvis Express wrote on January 23, 2005
I have to say Well said Todd, Your comments regarding TTWII-SE and the Suspicious Minds single were spot on, but the 9/11 charity single was even more terrible (highest position was 69), guess it should have had Limited Edition stamped on the cover? Regarding the Limited Editions, someone said on this site that if BMG start issuing the singles without limited edition numbers on them, then they would not buy them. THAT is totally the wrong attitude. These singles are all about getting Elvis back in the charts NOT so fans can buy them up and sell them at silly prices to those who could not get them from the stores.
emjel wrote on January 23, 2005
MessageToTodd: Todd-you have obviously read my messages, but I still need to kmow the best way to re-join the fan club ie, can it be done on line or by telephoning. Also, if the latter am I likely to get through if you are getting 400+ calls per day. Thanks
pacer1965 wrote on January 23, 2005
Hi Todd thanks for the information.I think the fan club do a great job ! Elvis Express you are right but i am one of the fans who buys every release when i know its being released in the charts and i would buy them if they were limited or not. I had to travel miles to see TTWIIse when it was on at the cinema because they did not show it in my hometown. When its monday i will be going to see if i can get Its now or never. As for Totps i wont be watching that insulting programme anymore
Elvis Express wrote on January 23, 2005
pacer1965, good on you. Limited Edition means nothing to me, I am in a fortunate position to be able to get to my local Virgin store in time for it opening and so I have been able to get all the singles so far.
Jim Semple wrote on January 23, 2005
Todd - you talk a lot of sense and I enjoy reading your thoughts, but your comment about what happened to all the fans for TTWII and Suspicious Minds is way off the mark. That was the worst piece of promotion in Elvis history. Absolutely nobody knew about it. Not everybody logs onto these great Elvis websites to find out the latest news etc.
MauriceColgan wrote on January 23, 2005
Listen Todd, er son, I'm 63 on the 10th February2005 :-) Visiting his shop in The Peabody Memphis back in 2002 I asked Bernard Lansky how old he was, and he asked me the same question. "Sixty", I said. Bernard Lansky replied, "that's ok, I often speak to children". Pamela Clarke Keogh, mentions him quite a lot in her book "Elvis Presley The Man, The Life, The Legend". Our blood cools and we wait to see if Elvis gets another Number One on BBC1 Radio. Meanwhile I have been emailing the Internaional media about the insult on TOTP we may as well use the publicity - strike while the Iron is hot. It's Now or Never..again:-)
SendToTodd wrote on January 23, 2005
Jim, I can't believe what you have just written. You say that for the release of TTWII and Suspicious Minds it was "the worst piece of promotion in Elvis history - absolutely nobody knew about it." The movie had a London West End premiere which was featured on the national news and breakfast television. There were front page features in many newspaper colour suppliments, the video for Suspicious Minds was available on all the music channels, and there was a special section in a television programme weekly. Also TWO MILLION promotional CDs were given away in the national press, and clips from the movie were featured on many television magazine programmes. When released on DVD/Video the title sold 150,000 copies in the UK (25,000 of which were a limited numbered box set edition). Sales at the time of release in the US were less than 10,000 copies - and because of poor showing Stateside that is why there has been no movement towards a special edition of "On Tour". So the only people in the UK that didn't know about the re-release of TTWII at the time must have been dead. Todd Slaughter
Jim Semple wrote on January 23, 2005
I'm sorry Todd, we'll have agree to disagree !. 2 million promos given away - I never received one in my newspapers but as there are 56 million in the UK, thats likely to happen I guess. And its only been the last few months, that I have seen Elvis ''Suspicious Minds'' on the ITV adverts promoting for Sky TV. I dont have Sky itself, so perhaps that where all this promotion has been going in the past. At the end of the day, the sales figures speak for themselves. A bit of promotion channelled in the right direction and ''Suspicious Minds'' would have been massive in the UK. Its by far, the one Elvis song, the youngsters of today would love to see / buy. And as for TTWII, I genuinely so very little about this. Please, anyone who is reading this, go and ask your friends, family, who might like Elvis but are not big fans like us, and I guarantee, the vast majority wouldnt have known about either releases. PS - If they re-released them again now, it would be a completely different story ! PPS - Anyway, as always, keep up the good work Todd, its good we can engage in healthy debate, on this excellent website.
volvo wrote on January 23, 2005
I agree with you Todd, I was getting really frustrated with not being able to get the singles, with the boring jokes about Elvis on the radio and with TOTP etc. but it hasn't got me anywhere! I'm just going back to enjoying the Elvis CDs and DVDs that I do own, and forget about these singles until they are more easily obtained, life's too short.
RobIreland wrote on January 23, 2005
Todd and co, TTWII was showen in the Queens Film Theatre in Belfast , I went along with a firend. What a fantastic experience it was. The place was packed to standing, the girls wowed ( at first i thought it was at me) everyone clapped at certain parts laughed when they should have and cheered, I'll not forget that night.
get real wrote on January 23, 2005
Well we wont have to worry about this week Elvis is only #2 too bad
RobIreland wrote on January 23, 2005
But did you ever think that in 2005 youd ever be saying aww Elvis is only number two ,lol,. Hes number two fer goodness sake , what an achievment !
Jim Semple wrote on January 23, 2005
Of course its an achievement and lets enjoy this success while it lasts, as it wont happen again, when the charts merge with the downloads. I don't think we will ger The King in the Top 40 then, so lets push hard for the remaining re-releases.
King Of Western Bop wrote on January 24, 2005
There's a lot of talk about how people are having the p*ss took out of them by so-called friends, etc. Whether or not it was an impersonator or footage of the real deal they would still hold the same opinion. No doubt if we were die hard fans of musical geniuses such as Mozart, Beethoven and their like then they'd still bore us to tears with their oft repeated slurs of "he's dead", etc. The fact that, like them, Elvis was a musical genius escapes their tiny minds. But be forgiving of them. After all, with the garbage they listen to how would they know what musical genius is? 20 No.1's, well over a billion records sold - and all this 51 years after his first recording and almost 28 years after his death. Not one of the bozos that they listen to will EVER achieve any of that. Enough said.
RobIreland wrote on January 24, 2005
Bozos King thats what they are Bozos !!!