Post by memphis on Sept 13, 2009 17:03:47 GMT -5
Bearing in mind that Sony have intimated that another 'Duets' Album is in the offing (2011) I thought I would start a thread to get your ideas on what you would like included in such a project. The last I heard was that if the album is to be the product it should be then the original backings should be stripped bare as far as possible and free reign given to the producer, preferably Mark Ronson or someone of his ilk and the artists concerned. This will give the tracks today's sound and truly bring Elvis into the 21st Century. Apparently there is no restriction on the artists who will duet with Elvis and they can be male or female, a group or even an instrumentalist. To start the ball rolling I will include my choices and the rationale behind them. I have gone for 30 tracks plus a bonus track. I have also tried to stay away from the big hits (as far as possible) as these have already been played to death and have chosen selections which show the many different genres in which Elvis could, and did, sing in. Apart from the traditional artists I have tried to include some of the newer ones to appeal to a different age group. Now over to you for your selections.
Brian
Mine are as follows:-
1. Let Yourself Go' - (Beyonce). This track is sexy, sultry and has a great grooving dance beat. Beyonce is a hot property and likes Elvis. She would be perfect to duet on this track. A No.1 for sure if released as a single. (SINGLE RECORD VERSION).
2. You Gave Me A Mountain - (Lee Greenwood). This is a great ballad and one which I have seen Lee sing on a U.S.A. TV Show. He has a tremendous voice and sings the song beautifully. Would be perfect to duet with Elvis on this album. (VERSION AS FEATURED ON THE ALBUM 'ALOHA FROM HAWAII VIA SATELITE').
3. Stranger In My Own Home Town - (Stevie Wonder). Stevie is an all-time great and his voice is still as good as ever. He has become very popular again and this track is tailor made for Stevie's intricate style of singing/playing. (AS FEATURED ON THE 'BACK IN MEMPHIS' ALBUM).
4. Fever - (Amy Winehouse). Amy has a very distinctive 'jazzy type' voice and would complement Elvis well on this sultry track. She is also a big seller', likes Elvis, and would be an asset to the album. (AS FEATURED ON THE ALBUM 'ELVIS IS BACK').
5. T-R-O-U-B-L-E - (Travis Tritt). One of Elvis' last great rockers and one which has really been overlooked. Travis Tritt is an American Country Singer and has also recorded this track which is outstanding with a lot of rhythm. Together, they could produce a great duet. (AS FEATURED ON THE 'ELVIS TODAY' ALBUM).
6. Almost In Love - (Diana Krall). Rarely heard track from the Elvis film 'Live A Little, Love A Little'. Elvis in mature mood and a song that Diana would excel on. Again this selection shows the diversity of Elvis' repertoire. (AS FEATURED ON THE DOUBLE FEATURES ALBUM 'LIVE A LITTLE, LOVE A LITTLE/CHARRO/THE TROUBLE WITH GIRLS/CHANGE OF HABIT).
7. U.S. Male - (Eminem). One of the very few Elvis records that lends itself to being 'rapped'. Eminem is the master in this genre and in my opinion would do a great job. He has recently come back into popularity after a couple of 'problem years'. (SINGLE RECORD VERSION).
8. You Don't Have To Say You Love Me - (Celine Dion). One of Elvis' finest singing performances. Celine has a fine voice and together would make this into a great duet. She also has a huge fan base. (AS FEATURED ON THE 'ELVIS: THAT'S THE WAY IT IS' ALBUM).
9.Burning Love - (Bruce Springsteen). Classic Elvis rocker and we all know Bruce can produce the goods on this one. A great team performance from the Boss and the King. (SINGLE RECORD VERSION).
10. Blue Moon - (Norah Jones with Martin Taylor on Guitar). This track is a great favorite with fans and performers alike. Norah Jones has a smooth sound to complement Elvis well and Martin Taylor is one of the best jazz guitarists I have ever heard. His solo instrumental version of 'Blue Moon' is outstanding and is featured on the DVD 'Elvis: A Tribute To The King'. The DVD features Scotty Moore, Eric Clapton, Bill Wyman, Ron Wood and other famous UK stars. Well worth the purchase. (AS FEATURED ON THE ALBUM 'ELVIS PRESLEY').
11. Don't Think Twice, It's All Right (Jam Edit) - (Bob Dylan). Bob Dylan is a legend in his own right and has always credited Elvis as being one of his inspirations. I am sure he would love to duet with Elvis on one of his most famous compositions. (AS FEATURED ON ELVIS' 70'S MASTERS BOX SET, DISC 4, TRACK 3).
12. The Last Farewell - (Roger Whittaker). Roger has been a very popular star now for many years and is massive in Germany where he has just finished another lengthy tour. He has sold 50 million albums worldwide and is a big fan of Elvis. Elvis and Roger together would make for a great duet on this classic song. (AS FEATURED ON THE ALBUM 'FROM ELVIS PRESLEY BOULEVARD, MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE'}.
13. Little Sister/Get Back - (Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr). The Beatles and Elvis never recorded together. Whilst two of the Beatles are now dead, there are still two left and this is, perhaps, the final chance for them to duet with Elvis. This medley of 'Little Sister'/'Get Back' was regularly featured by Elvis during his Vegas and 'on tour' performances. Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr both like Elvis and I am sure they would be willing to collaborate on this one. (AS FEATURED ON THE 'ELVIS ARON PRESLEY' BOX SET, DISC 3, TRACK 9).
14. Crying In The Chapel - (Al Green). Legendary soul singer who comes from Memphis and met Elvis once. The Reverend Green will identify with the words of this song and would make this a great duet with Elvis who sings from the heart. (SINGLE RECORD VERSION).
15. Steamroller Blues - (ZZ Top). ZZ Top are a fantastic trio and again credit Elvis as one of their major influences. They have recorded several Elvis tracks throughout the years including 'Viva Las Vegas', 'Teddy Bear' and 'Jailhouse Rock'. They have a great bluesy feel and would do a fantastic job on this track. (AS FEATURED ON THE 'ALOHA FROM HAWAII VIA SATELITE' ALBUM).
16. True Love Travels On A Gravel Road - (Leona Lewis). Leona Lewis is now a hot property worldwide, particularly in the U.S.A., and has a classy voice. This song is one of Elvis' best performances and Leona would do a great job on it. (AS FEATURED ON THE 'FROM ELVIS IN MEMPHIS' ALBUM (LEGACY EDITION).
17. Stuck On You - (Dion Di Mucci) - This track has a very similar beat to Dion's biggest hit 'The Wanderer' and would make a wonderful duet. Dion has a great voice and is a survivor from the 1950's. He is still appearing regularly in Vegas and other spots around the U.S.A. (SINGLE RECORD VERSION).
18. The Lady Love Me - (Elvis and Ann Margaret). Classic Duet from the film 'Love In Las Vegas'. One that stands the test of time and not very well known by the general public. (AS FEATURED ON TRACK 11 OF THE FTD ALBUM 'ELVIS - VIVA LAS VEGAS').
19. Reconsider Baby - (Eric Clapton). Eric is considered THE blues guitar man and has recorded this track on one of his albums. He would be ideal for providing the guitar back-up on Elvis' most famous blues performance. Eric likes Elvis and has met him once. (FROM THE ALBUM 'ELVIS IS BACK').
20. Any Day Now - (Duffy). Great performance from Elvis, and Duffy is one of the hottest new singers on the block. Tom Jones really rates her a lot. This track is perfect for her great voice. (AS FEATURED ON THE 'FROM ELVIS IN MEMPHIS' LEGACY EDITION).
21. Kentucky Rain - (Rascal Flatts). Great song and Rascal Flatts are a very popular country group in the U.S.A. Together they make for a great duet. (AS FEATURED ON THE 'FROM ELVIS IN MEMPHIS' LEGACY EDITION).
22. Wonderful World - (Cliff Richard). Cliff is a superstar in his own right, particularly in the UK, and is one of the biggest Elvis fans on the planet. I am sure he would jump at the chance to duet with Elvis on this track. This is a rarely heard Elvis track by UK songwriters Fletcher and Flett but one that is totally suited to Cliff's vocal range and one that should have won him the Eurovision Song Contest in 1968. It has recently come to light that he was cheated out of the winning spot by illegal voting procedures. It is a classic waltz and Elvis sings it over the opening credits to his film 'Live A Little'', Love A Little'. If released as a single, this duet could easily become a No.1 in the UK as both artists have the fan bases to make this happen. (AS FEATURED ON THE ALBUM 'SINGER PRESENTS ELVIS SINGING FLAMING STAR AND OTHERS').
23. Solitaire - (Neil Diamond). Neil is a perennial superstar with a huge fan base who has become extremely popular again in the 21st Century. His voice seems to get better with age. This Neil Sedaka song would be perfect for Neil to duet with Elvis on. Neil's touring drummer, of course, is none other than Ronnie Tutt which is a bonus. (AS FEATURED ON THE ALBUM 'FROM ELVIS PRESLEY BOULEVARD, MEMPHIS TENNESSEE').
24. Down In The Alley - (Joe Bonemassa). Bonemassa is one of the greatest blues guitar players in the world today. This is a great blues performance from Elvis which Bonemassa could set on fire.(AS FEATURED ON THE FTD ALBUM 'ELVIS: SPINOUT, TRACK 11).
25. Young And Beautiful - (Delta Goodrem). Classic ballad from the film 'Jailhouse Rock'. Delta Goodrem is a popular singer from Australia and has the voice to shine on this track. Elvis made a different 'part' version of this song in 1972 and it had great promise. It is suggested that the duet commences with Elvis singing the classic part, then segueing into Delta with the 1972 version, then back to Elvis on the classic version, finally ending with both on the classic version. (FROM THE EXTENDED PLAY 'JAILHOUSE ROCK' AND FTD ALBUM 'ELVIS ON TOUR - THE REHEARSALS').
26. Promised Land - (Rod Stewart). Great rocking track from Elvis and one which Rod, with his distinctive voice, could bring a bit of magic. (AS FEATURED ON THE ALBUM OF THE SAME NAME).
27. Today, Tomorrow And Forever - (Jessica Simpson). A beautiful ballad sung in the film 'Love In Las Vegas'. Jessica Simpson has a very nice smooth voice which would be ideal to duet with Elvis on this song. Very underrated track and one which many music critics and fans alike rate highly. (AS FEATURED ON THE FTD ALBUM 'ELVIS IN VIVA LAS VEGAS', TRACK 6).
28. You'll Never Walk Alone - (Adam Lambert). One of Elvis' personal favorites which he sings beautifully. Adam Lambert is one of the new singing sensations in the U.S.A. and has a potent voice. I think he would do an excellent job on this classic. (SINGLE RECORD VERSION).
29. Patch It Up - (Britney Spears). An underrated Elvis track and one that has not had that much publicity. Britney Spears has a huge fan base and would complement Elvis well with all her sexy moves and image. (AS FEATURED ON THE FTD ALBUM 'ELVIS, THAT'S THE WAY IT IS' - DISC ONE-TRACK 4).
30. If I Can Dream - (Muhammad Ali). One of Elvis' most passionate performances and one with a true message of peace. Muhammad Ali is the most famous sports personality of all time and a true friend of Elvis. Although suffering from Parkinson's Disease he still manages to tour around (just been in the UK raising money for charity). It would be really special if he were to say a few words of peace in the middle. If Ali were to agree to this then needless to say this track could become THE highlight of the album. (AS FEATURED ON THE DVD 'ELVIS THE '68 COMEBACK SPECIAL- DELUXE EDITION). However, to make this track really special, all of the artists concerned on the 'Duets' album could record it for a Charity Video to be distributed worldwide to raise money for a worthwhile cause/causes.
Bonus Track
31. Don't Cry Daddy - (Lisa Marie Presley). This duet was recorded a few years ago by Lisa Marie as a tribute to her father. It was never officially released other than on i-Tunes and Elvis fans worldwide have long called for an official release. It is well made and would please the fans. (MASTER HELD BY ELVIS PRESLEY ENTERPRISES).
Elvis Duets - TV Special
In order to publicize the album a 'Making Of TV Special' could be produced with the artists concerned shown recording their album tracks 'live' in the studio and giving their reflections on Elvis and what he means to them. Further, most of the track selections above have accompanying video which could be augmented with new video to distribute to such TV Channels as MTV, VHI, various Country Channels and many others.
TCB
For so many years now Elvis' record company have neglected to take advantage of increasing Elvis' record sales in the U.S.A. by following closely the R.I.A.A. rules. Garth Brooks is a master of this. If this album were to be a 2 CD Set (with a playing time of over 100 minutes) then the R.I.A.A. would credit this with double sales. By so doing it could become one of Elvis' biggest sellers in the U.S.A. and would help him give Garth Brooks a run for his money as the 'Most Successful Solo Artist Ever in the U.S.A'. Brooks is currently credited by the R.I.A.A. with 128 million and Elvis 120 million.
Further, in the UK, and most important, it is suggested that there be only one official release date for this album. What has been noticed for recent releases e.g. the 'Elvis Spankox Re:versions' and 'Elvis Christmas Duets' is that they both had two separate release dates for the De-Luxe and Ordinary versions. This is chart suicide and ruins any chance of the artist getting a high chart placing in the first week of release. Different album covers for the same release is also confusing to record buyers.
Brian
Mine are as follows:-
1. Let Yourself Go' - (Beyonce). This track is sexy, sultry and has a great grooving dance beat. Beyonce is a hot property and likes Elvis. She would be perfect to duet on this track. A No.1 for sure if released as a single. (SINGLE RECORD VERSION).
2. You Gave Me A Mountain - (Lee Greenwood). This is a great ballad and one which I have seen Lee sing on a U.S.A. TV Show. He has a tremendous voice and sings the song beautifully. Would be perfect to duet with Elvis on this album. (VERSION AS FEATURED ON THE ALBUM 'ALOHA FROM HAWAII VIA SATELITE').
3. Stranger In My Own Home Town - (Stevie Wonder). Stevie is an all-time great and his voice is still as good as ever. He has become very popular again and this track is tailor made for Stevie's intricate style of singing/playing. (AS FEATURED ON THE 'BACK IN MEMPHIS' ALBUM).
4. Fever - (Amy Winehouse). Amy has a very distinctive 'jazzy type' voice and would complement Elvis well on this sultry track. She is also a big seller', likes Elvis, and would be an asset to the album. (AS FEATURED ON THE ALBUM 'ELVIS IS BACK').
5. T-R-O-U-B-L-E - (Travis Tritt). One of Elvis' last great rockers and one which has really been overlooked. Travis Tritt is an American Country Singer and has also recorded this track which is outstanding with a lot of rhythm. Together, they could produce a great duet. (AS FEATURED ON THE 'ELVIS TODAY' ALBUM).
6. Almost In Love - (Diana Krall). Rarely heard track from the Elvis film 'Live A Little, Love A Little'. Elvis in mature mood and a song that Diana would excel on. Again this selection shows the diversity of Elvis' repertoire. (AS FEATURED ON THE DOUBLE FEATURES ALBUM 'LIVE A LITTLE, LOVE A LITTLE/CHARRO/THE TROUBLE WITH GIRLS/CHANGE OF HABIT).
7. U.S. Male - (Eminem). One of the very few Elvis records that lends itself to being 'rapped'. Eminem is the master in this genre and in my opinion would do a great job. He has recently come back into popularity after a couple of 'problem years'. (SINGLE RECORD VERSION).
8. You Don't Have To Say You Love Me - (Celine Dion). One of Elvis' finest singing performances. Celine has a fine voice and together would make this into a great duet. She also has a huge fan base. (AS FEATURED ON THE 'ELVIS: THAT'S THE WAY IT IS' ALBUM).
9.Burning Love - (Bruce Springsteen). Classic Elvis rocker and we all know Bruce can produce the goods on this one. A great team performance from the Boss and the King. (SINGLE RECORD VERSION).
10. Blue Moon - (Norah Jones with Martin Taylor on Guitar). This track is a great favorite with fans and performers alike. Norah Jones has a smooth sound to complement Elvis well and Martin Taylor is one of the best jazz guitarists I have ever heard. His solo instrumental version of 'Blue Moon' is outstanding and is featured on the DVD 'Elvis: A Tribute To The King'. The DVD features Scotty Moore, Eric Clapton, Bill Wyman, Ron Wood and other famous UK stars. Well worth the purchase. (AS FEATURED ON THE ALBUM 'ELVIS PRESLEY').
11. Don't Think Twice, It's All Right (Jam Edit) - (Bob Dylan). Bob Dylan is a legend in his own right and has always credited Elvis as being one of his inspirations. I am sure he would love to duet with Elvis on one of his most famous compositions. (AS FEATURED ON ELVIS' 70'S MASTERS BOX SET, DISC 4, TRACK 3).
12. The Last Farewell - (Roger Whittaker). Roger has been a very popular star now for many years and is massive in Germany where he has just finished another lengthy tour. He has sold 50 million albums worldwide and is a big fan of Elvis. Elvis and Roger together would make for a great duet on this classic song. (AS FEATURED ON THE ALBUM 'FROM ELVIS PRESLEY BOULEVARD, MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE'}.
13. Little Sister/Get Back - (Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr). The Beatles and Elvis never recorded together. Whilst two of the Beatles are now dead, there are still two left and this is, perhaps, the final chance for them to duet with Elvis. This medley of 'Little Sister'/'Get Back' was regularly featured by Elvis during his Vegas and 'on tour' performances. Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr both like Elvis and I am sure they would be willing to collaborate on this one. (AS FEATURED ON THE 'ELVIS ARON PRESLEY' BOX SET, DISC 3, TRACK 9).
14. Crying In The Chapel - (Al Green). Legendary soul singer who comes from Memphis and met Elvis once. The Reverend Green will identify with the words of this song and would make this a great duet with Elvis who sings from the heart. (SINGLE RECORD VERSION).
15. Steamroller Blues - (ZZ Top). ZZ Top are a fantastic trio and again credit Elvis as one of their major influences. They have recorded several Elvis tracks throughout the years including 'Viva Las Vegas', 'Teddy Bear' and 'Jailhouse Rock'. They have a great bluesy feel and would do a fantastic job on this track. (AS FEATURED ON THE 'ALOHA FROM HAWAII VIA SATELITE' ALBUM).
16. True Love Travels On A Gravel Road - (Leona Lewis). Leona Lewis is now a hot property worldwide, particularly in the U.S.A., and has a classy voice. This song is one of Elvis' best performances and Leona would do a great job on it. (AS FEATURED ON THE 'FROM ELVIS IN MEMPHIS' ALBUM (LEGACY EDITION).
17. Stuck On You - (Dion Di Mucci) - This track has a very similar beat to Dion's biggest hit 'The Wanderer' and would make a wonderful duet. Dion has a great voice and is a survivor from the 1950's. He is still appearing regularly in Vegas and other spots around the U.S.A. (SINGLE RECORD VERSION).
18. The Lady Love Me - (Elvis and Ann Margaret). Classic Duet from the film 'Love In Las Vegas'. One that stands the test of time and not very well known by the general public. (AS FEATURED ON TRACK 11 OF THE FTD ALBUM 'ELVIS - VIVA LAS VEGAS').
19. Reconsider Baby - (Eric Clapton). Eric is considered THE blues guitar man and has recorded this track on one of his albums. He would be ideal for providing the guitar back-up on Elvis' most famous blues performance. Eric likes Elvis and has met him once. (FROM THE ALBUM 'ELVIS IS BACK').
20. Any Day Now - (Duffy). Great performance from Elvis, and Duffy is one of the hottest new singers on the block. Tom Jones really rates her a lot. This track is perfect for her great voice. (AS FEATURED ON THE 'FROM ELVIS IN MEMPHIS' LEGACY EDITION).
21. Kentucky Rain - (Rascal Flatts). Great song and Rascal Flatts are a very popular country group in the U.S.A. Together they make for a great duet. (AS FEATURED ON THE 'FROM ELVIS IN MEMPHIS' LEGACY EDITION).
22. Wonderful World - (Cliff Richard). Cliff is a superstar in his own right, particularly in the UK, and is one of the biggest Elvis fans on the planet. I am sure he would jump at the chance to duet with Elvis on this track. This is a rarely heard Elvis track by UK songwriters Fletcher and Flett but one that is totally suited to Cliff's vocal range and one that should have won him the Eurovision Song Contest in 1968. It has recently come to light that he was cheated out of the winning spot by illegal voting procedures. It is a classic waltz and Elvis sings it over the opening credits to his film 'Live A Little'', Love A Little'. If released as a single, this duet could easily become a No.1 in the UK as both artists have the fan bases to make this happen. (AS FEATURED ON THE ALBUM 'SINGER PRESENTS ELVIS SINGING FLAMING STAR AND OTHERS').
23. Solitaire - (Neil Diamond). Neil is a perennial superstar with a huge fan base who has become extremely popular again in the 21st Century. His voice seems to get better with age. This Neil Sedaka song would be perfect for Neil to duet with Elvis on. Neil's touring drummer, of course, is none other than Ronnie Tutt which is a bonus. (AS FEATURED ON THE ALBUM 'FROM ELVIS PRESLEY BOULEVARD, MEMPHIS TENNESSEE').
24. Down In The Alley - (Joe Bonemassa). Bonemassa is one of the greatest blues guitar players in the world today. This is a great blues performance from Elvis which Bonemassa could set on fire.(AS FEATURED ON THE FTD ALBUM 'ELVIS: SPINOUT, TRACK 11).
25. Young And Beautiful - (Delta Goodrem). Classic ballad from the film 'Jailhouse Rock'. Delta Goodrem is a popular singer from Australia and has the voice to shine on this track. Elvis made a different 'part' version of this song in 1972 and it had great promise. It is suggested that the duet commences with Elvis singing the classic part, then segueing into Delta with the 1972 version, then back to Elvis on the classic version, finally ending with both on the classic version. (FROM THE EXTENDED PLAY 'JAILHOUSE ROCK' AND FTD ALBUM 'ELVIS ON TOUR - THE REHEARSALS').
26. Promised Land - (Rod Stewart). Great rocking track from Elvis and one which Rod, with his distinctive voice, could bring a bit of magic. (AS FEATURED ON THE ALBUM OF THE SAME NAME).
27. Today, Tomorrow And Forever - (Jessica Simpson). A beautiful ballad sung in the film 'Love In Las Vegas'. Jessica Simpson has a very nice smooth voice which would be ideal to duet with Elvis on this song. Very underrated track and one which many music critics and fans alike rate highly. (AS FEATURED ON THE FTD ALBUM 'ELVIS IN VIVA LAS VEGAS', TRACK 6).
28. You'll Never Walk Alone - (Adam Lambert). One of Elvis' personal favorites which he sings beautifully. Adam Lambert is one of the new singing sensations in the U.S.A. and has a potent voice. I think he would do an excellent job on this classic. (SINGLE RECORD VERSION).
29. Patch It Up - (Britney Spears). An underrated Elvis track and one that has not had that much publicity. Britney Spears has a huge fan base and would complement Elvis well with all her sexy moves and image. (AS FEATURED ON THE FTD ALBUM 'ELVIS, THAT'S THE WAY IT IS' - DISC ONE-TRACK 4).
30. If I Can Dream - (Muhammad Ali). One of Elvis' most passionate performances and one with a true message of peace. Muhammad Ali is the most famous sports personality of all time and a true friend of Elvis. Although suffering from Parkinson's Disease he still manages to tour around (just been in the UK raising money for charity). It would be really special if he were to say a few words of peace in the middle. If Ali were to agree to this then needless to say this track could become THE highlight of the album. (AS FEATURED ON THE DVD 'ELVIS THE '68 COMEBACK SPECIAL- DELUXE EDITION). However, to make this track really special, all of the artists concerned on the 'Duets' album could record it for a Charity Video to be distributed worldwide to raise money for a worthwhile cause/causes.
Bonus Track
31. Don't Cry Daddy - (Lisa Marie Presley). This duet was recorded a few years ago by Lisa Marie as a tribute to her father. It was never officially released other than on i-Tunes and Elvis fans worldwide have long called for an official release. It is well made and would please the fans. (MASTER HELD BY ELVIS PRESLEY ENTERPRISES).
Elvis Duets - TV Special
In order to publicize the album a 'Making Of TV Special' could be produced with the artists concerned shown recording their album tracks 'live' in the studio and giving their reflections on Elvis and what he means to them. Further, most of the track selections above have accompanying video which could be augmented with new video to distribute to such TV Channels as MTV, VHI, various Country Channels and many others.
TCB
For so many years now Elvis' record company have neglected to take advantage of increasing Elvis' record sales in the U.S.A. by following closely the R.I.A.A. rules. Garth Brooks is a master of this. If this album were to be a 2 CD Set (with a playing time of over 100 minutes) then the R.I.A.A. would credit this with double sales. By so doing it could become one of Elvis' biggest sellers in the U.S.A. and would help him give Garth Brooks a run for his money as the 'Most Successful Solo Artist Ever in the U.S.A'. Brooks is currently credited by the R.I.A.A. with 128 million and Elvis 120 million.
Further, in the UK, and most important, it is suggested that there be only one official release date for this album. What has been noticed for recent releases e.g. the 'Elvis Spankox Re:versions' and 'Elvis Christmas Duets' is that they both had two separate release dates for the De-Luxe and Ordinary versions. This is chart suicide and ruins any chance of the artist getting a high chart placing in the first week of release. Different album covers for the same release is also confusing to record buyers.