TTWII–EOT Vault Footage

Keeping the Footage. Losing the Baggage.

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Elvis Presley in 1970, from the EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert trailer - 2026, NEON

Elvis Presley in 1970, from the EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert trailer (2026, NEON)

When I watched the full trailer that NEON dropped back on January 13 for Baz Luhrmann’s EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert, I realized a couple of things.

One is that I’ve been writing about this darned lost footage for 35 years. This brief newsletter article about Elvis: That’s The Way It Is and Elvis On Tour outtakes was actually one of the first things I ever wrote about Elvis.

You see, I had read about the possibility of such footage existing in one of my brother’s old Elvis magazines from 1987. Naturally, I wrote to Graceland about it. Because that’s what you do.

And Graceland was nice enough in 1991 to provide the few available details, which I incorporated into my article the following year.

The second realization is that I’ve been carrying around almost as many years’ worth of baggage over this lost footage.

Oh, the mismanagement! Oh, the falsehoods! Oh, the missed opportunities!

As I watched the brilliant preview trailer for EPiC, I finally accepted that it’s time to let all of that go. I don’t want to weigh EPiC down with my lost footage baggage.

Writing is a catharsis for me, so I’m going to air out this baggage one last time, and then it’s gone forever. And if you see me mention it again, friends, I want you to call me out on it.

THAT'S THE WAY IT IS home video cover (1988)

ELVIS: THAT’S THE WAY IT IS home video cover (1988)

1992

Event: Elvis: The Lost Performances arrives on VHS and Laserdisc. This compilation of outtakes from Elvis: That’s The Way It Is and Elvis On Tour was just about perfect for its time. It primarily focused on the songs that mattered to Elvis, not necessarily his biggest hits. Songs were presented in full. With no narration in between, the music was allowed to speak for itself.

THE LOST PERFORMANCES home video cover (1992)

ELVIS: THE LOST PERFORMANCES home video cover (1992)

Associated Baggage: The release of Turner Home Entertainment’s Elvis: The Lost Performances was initially delayed by a year or more due to the 1990 home media release of Buena Vista’s Elvis: The Great Performances. Though they played nice in terms of release dates, I guess no one noticed that a mere four letters distinguish one title from the other. Among casual fans and, most assuredly, the general public, this was potential confusion. The Lost Performances cover art also used a reverse image of the same underlying Elvis: That’s The Way It Is pose as the 1988 VHS release of that film. More potential confusion. To top it off, one month before Elvis: The Lost Performances hits shelves, CBS airs, get this, a television version of Elvis: The Great Performances. I guess that whole playing nice in the marketplace thing didn’t work both ways.

1997

Event: Among other Elvis titles, Turner/MGM re-releases Elvis: That’s The Way It Is, Elvis On Tour, and Elvis: The Lost Performances on home video.

Associated Baggage: All of the “new” VHS videos are in pan & scan to fit square televisions of the day, though many consumers, including this particular Elvis fan, were educated enough by this time to know that widescreen/letterboxed was a superior format for such movies in order not to lose large portions of the image. While Elvis: That’s The Way It Is earns a DVD release at this time as well that contains a widescreen option in this new format, there are inexplicably no DVDs for Elvis On Tour or Elvis: The Lost Performances.

2001

Event: And here’s the big one. If you follow this kind of stuff, you knew it was coming. Warner Brothers releases Elvis: That’s The Way It Is – Special Edition on home video. The 2000 film uses some of the once-lost footage from Elvis: The Lost Performances, other lost footage, and some of the original footage as part of an entirely new cut of the classic documentary.

2001 VHS and DVD editions of THAT'S THE WAY IT IS: SPECIAL EDITION

2001 VHS and DVD editions of ELVIS: THAT’S THE WAY IT IS – SPECIAL EDITION

Associated Baggage
Where to start? First, the name. The fact that this is almost an entirely new movie is not at all obvious by adding “Special Edition” to the title of the original documentary that many Elvis fans already owned by this point.

Next, the day before the VHS version goes on sale, Turner Classic Movies airs Elvis: That’s The Way It Is – Special Edition on cable television. As long as you had the channel, you could record it with your VCR for free. You even get a few bonus songs after the movie not included on the retail VHS.

Ah, but the DVD! It will have all of those bonus songs and even more as special features, right? Well, it was supposed to, but someone apparently didn’t obtain all of the proper clearances. So there was a delay as the DVDs were re-made to exclude all of the bonus songs. Oh, and then just as they are about to hit store shelves (and possibly a few do), someone realizes that the DVD case still has references to those bonus songs that aren’t actually on the DVD. So, another delay while the cases are re-made. Finally, months after the VHS, the DVD comes out. Not with a bang, but with a whimper.

Oh, and Elvis: That’s The Way It Is – Special Edition uses that same underlying Elvis image as the 1997 & 1992 releases of Elvis: The Lost Performances and the 1988 release of Elvis: That’s The Way It Is.

Apparently, Warner is disappointed by the sales of the Special Edition (gee, I wonder why sales would suffer), so it cancels a similar project around Elvis On Tour.

But wait, there’s even more baggage here. The release of Elvis: That’s The Way It Is – Special Edition and its use of some of the same songs seems to have buried Elvis: The Lost Performances, which Warner never releases again.

2007

Event: A 2-DVD re-release of That’s The Way It Is: Special Edition that includes the original film and some of the excised bonus features from 2001 on the second disc.

Associated Baggage: The long-awaited bonus features were in embarrassing video quality for a mainstream release, as apparently a backup videotape copy was used when the master tapes from 2001 could not be found. While definitely watchable, the 1970 theatrical cut was also in lesser condition relative to the 2001 edit. And I’m not even going to mention what underlying cover image they decided to go with. Because even if you don’t know, you already know.

2010

Event: Elvis On Tour finally gets a DVD release! And. . . can this be. . . a Blu-ray release! It almost sounds too good to be true.

Associated Baggage: Well, it turns out that it almost is. At the last moment, Warner reveals that the opening song that plays over the credits, a rehearsal of “Johnny B. Goode,” ran into issues with obtaining clearance. From most accounts, it seemed out of their hands this time. Fair enough. What do they do? They replace it with a lacklustre live version of “Don’t Be Cruel.” Oh. . . and just to really give me nightmares, they also edit in a poor loop of the song since it wasn’t long enough to cover the opening credits sequences. So you get to hear Elvis’ “Please let’s forget the past, before I kick your–” joke not once, but twice, ladies and gentlemen. And, more relevant to this post, no bonus features. Nothing.

2014

Event: Elvis: That’s The Way It Is gets a Blu-ray release! 2001 bonus songs master tapes located and to be included!

Associated Baggage: Well, here’s what actually happened back in 2014 if you bought the Elvis: That’s The Way It Is Blu-ray. You did indeed get a Blu-ray of Elvis: That’s The Way It Is – Special Edition. The promised improved quality bonus songs? I wish I could say otherwise, but not so much. I really don’t know what they were thinking. As for the original Elvis: That’s The Way It Is movie? It is included as a second DVD, using the same master as way back in 1997. But hey, at least the art department was on top of things. When they envisioned what the cover art for this first-ever That’s The Way It Is Blu-ray should be, a certain underlying image immediately came to mind. . . .

2014 Blu-ray edition of THAT'S THE WAY IT IS: SPECIAL EDITION

2014 Blu-ray edition of ELVIS: THAT’S THE WAY IT IS – SPECIAL EDITION

2026: Letting it go

We could all probably think of more blunders around the handling of the lost and not-so-lost footage originally captured for Elvis: That’s The Way It Is and Elvis On Tour, but it is indeed time to let it all go.

So, here’s what I propose. That abandoned salt mine in Kansas that people keep finding this lost footage in? Let’s lock our baggage in there. Gone. Forever.

Did I mention the full EPiC trailer is brilliant? Surely, you have watched by now? If not, you better check it out over on YouTube.

Wow.

Just wow. That’s all I’ve got.

Around the same time as the trailer, NEON also released a new poster. I mean, even if EPiC somehow turns out to be a dud, that is one awesome Elvis poster that I had to have!

Being the understanding woman that she is, my bride ordered one for me. When the package ran into shipping issues due to the recent weather events, I heard her laughing as she looked at the tracking image.

Wondering what gave her that reaction, I took a look. The tracking uses a close-up of the poster, so it looks like Elvis’ face on the map.

Sure, that’s mildly humorous, but I didn’t see why she thought it was so funny.

Then I looked again at the map.

That’s right, Elvis is stuck in Memphis!

EPiC hits IMAX theaters worldwide on February 20, with early access showings beginning on February 18, and then expands to wide release on February 27 globally.

The Look

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Last month, NEON released the official teaser trailer for Baz Luhrmann’s latest project, EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert. Check it out over on YouTube.

As Elvis Presley fans we could say a lot of things about that trailer, couldn’t we? We could quibble over dates, for instance, or debate the definition of “lost.”

None of that matters.

There’s a blink-and-you-miss-it moment in the trailer that clinches EPiC for me. Watching Elvis over the years, you become familiar with a certain look in his eyes. It’s a quick glance. Sometimes directly to fans. Sometimes to cameras. He seems to say, “You’re in on this with me, aren’t you?”

In the EPiC teaser, it occurs at 0:58. Here it is:

Elvis Presley in 1970, from the EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert teaser, 2025, NEON

Elvis Presley in 1970, from the EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert teaser (2025, NEON)

The film hits IMAX theaters worldwide on February 20, with early access showings beginning on February 18, and then expands to wide release on February 27 globally.

While there have been limited-run screenings over the years, EPiC represents the first wide release of an Elvis documentary in cinemas since 1981’s This Is Elvis.

We’ve lost many first generation Elvis fans since that time. For many second (and beyond) generation fans, like myself, events like EPiC are the closest we’ll ever come to experiencing Elvis in person.

EPiC allows Elvis to tell his own story, using audio from multiple sources. It also features fully restored video of previously released and unreleased content. Most of the footage used was originally filmed for the documentaries Elvis: That’s The Way It Is (1970) and Elvis On Tour (1972).

The film left stellar reviews in its wake after the world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in September last year, the European premiere at the Zurich Film Festival in September and October, and the United States premiere in Memphis at the TCB Showroom on January 8, the 91st anniversary of Elvis’ birth.

Footage from other eras is also featured to help round out the narrative. Most notably, color footage of Elvis performing in Hawaii in 1957 is included–30 seconds of which was first released by Graceland with little fanfare on the Aloha From Hawaii: 40th Anniversary Edition DVD (2013).

Sony on January 8 announced plans for the EPiC soundtrack, which will be available February 20 on digital and CD and April 24 on vinyl.

You can preview one of the songs on YouTube here: “Wearin’ That Night Life Look.”

This mashup combines elements from “Wearin’ That Loved-On Look,” “Night Life,” “Let Yourself Go,” and “I, John.” On paper it sounds like a mess, but it manages to work. I love it. As Elvis says, “Just play the hell out of it!”

Luhrmann produced and directed EPiC. He also co-produced, co-wrote, and directed ELVIS (2022), a fictionalized account of the singer’s life that starred Austin Butler (Elvis Presley), Tom Hanks (“Colonel” Tom Parker), and Olivia DeJonge (Priscilla Presley). That film earned nearly $300 million worldwide in its box office run. Butler won a Golden Globe for his portrayal and the movie earned eight Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Actor (Butler).

That the editor of the teaser trailer included “the look” gives me confidence that EPiC will do Elvis justice. We need to experience and support this one at our local theaters. Don’t make the mistake of waiting to watch it at home. Find it at a theater near you.

And, yes, we’re still in on it with you, Elvis.

Lost and Found and Lost and Found and Lost and Found

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Presented without comment.

From Elvis: The Lost Performances (1992, MGM/UA Home Video, Turner Entertainment Co.):

“The performances you are about to see were rescued from discarded outtakes MGM had stored in an underground salt mine in Kansas.

“They were taken from two of Elvis’ live concert movies, ‘Elvis—That’s The Way It Is,’ and ‘Elvis On Tour,’ produced in 1970 and 1972, respectively.

“Also included in this program is a rehearsal that Elvis did on the MGM lot in 1970.

“None of these performances have ever been seen by the public except, of course, by those who were present when they happened.”

From Elvis: That’s The Way It Is – Special Edition (2001, Warner Home Video, Turner Entertainment Co.):

“In November 1970 MGM released the documentary film ‘Elvis: That’s The Way It Is,’ directed by Denis Sanders. It chronicled Elvis Presley as he returned to the live performances he had abandoned while making movies in Hollywood during the sixties.

“Most of the footage shot was unused in the final film and remained lost in studio vaults.

“Until Now.”

From EPiC: Elvis Presley In Concert Official Teaser (2025, NEON, Universal):

“In 1969, Elvis returned to the stage to begin a legendary residency in Las Vegas.

“For 40 years there have been rumors of lost footage.

“During the production of Baz Luhrmann’s ELVIS, it was found.

“This is more than a documentary.

“This is more than a concert film.

“This is Baz Luhrmann’s EPiC: Elvis Presley In Concert.”

VHS covers for ELVIS: THE LOST PERFORMANCES (1992) and ELVIS: THAT'S THE WAY IT IS - SPECIAL EDITION (2001); teaser poster for EPiC: ELVIS PRESLEY IN CONCERT (2025)

VHS covers for ELVIS: THE LOST PERFORMANCES (1992) and ELVIS: THAT’S THE WAY IT IS – SPECIAL EDITION (2001); teaser poster for EPiC: ELVIS PRESLEY IN CONCERT (2025)

Ramblings

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One of our annual traditions this time of year on The Mystery Train is that I make note of the fact that I haven’t posted in many months.

Indeed, it has been many months since I posted. Outside of a quick tribute to Elvis Presley in August, my last real post here was in April! I did have a seemingly strong start to 2023 as I began (but never finished) a multi-part review series of Sony’s then-new Elvis On Tour set. I also examined two more Elvis movies.

In the Elvis world, 2023 will be remembered with sadness due to the loss of Lisa Marie Presley on January 12. Nearly a year later, I still find it hard to believe. On a brighter note, Lisa’s daughter, Riley Keough, seems to have risen to the occasion as far as taking up the Presley mantle. Her mom would be proud.

A few tidbits when it comes to Elvis news since I last posted. While reviewing the top-notch Elvis On Tour set back in the first few months of 2023, I kept thinking, “If only Madison Square Garden would get a similar treatment.” I thought it would never happen, since that event had already been revisited as recently as 2012 with Sony’s excellent Prince From Another Planet set. Wow, did I underestimate the Elvis re-release machine. Indeed, the FTD collectors label for Elvis fans released new mixes of the Madison Square Garden concerts not long after I had that very thought.

On the main Sony label, a set containing new mixes of the 1973 Aloha From Hawaii concerts and related material on 3 CDs as well as a Blu-ray version of that event were also released. Sony’s 2023 Aloha From Hawaii release was slightly controversial, though, and rightly so.

FTD only a year before had already released 2 of the 3 CDs of new mixes at a premium price. The remaining CD of the 2022 FTD set used a vintage 2013 Sony mix – meaning that, Blu-ray aside, fans that already bought the 2022 FTD set but wanted all of the new mixes would still have to buy the 2023 Sony set for the 1 CD. Why Elvis’ music catalog continues to be treated in this haphazard manner is beyond me. Incompetence? Contempt? Greed? A little of all of these? Your guess is as good as mine.

While I originally intended not to touch Sony’s 2023 Aloha set until after I had listened to the “new” As Recorded At Madison Square Garden, I couldn’t help but watch the Aloha From Hawaii Blu-ray the night of August 16. I wanted to experience it as a fan rather than as a writer, so I did not take any notes or watch it from a critical or analytical perspective. I just sat back and immersed myself in the shows again. As I’ve mentioned many times on here, my mom was a first-generation Elvis fan who first started listening to him in 1956 when she was 12. For her, 1973’s Aloha From The Hawaii was the absolute pinnacle of Elvis. I miss seeing her watch it.

Elvis Presley conquers the world during the 1973 ELVIS: ALOHA FROM HAWAII VIA SATELLITE television special (NBC)

Elvis Presley conquers the world during the 1973 ELVIS: ALOHA FROM HAWAII VIA SATELLITE television special (NBC)

As for that FTD Madison Square Garden set, I still haven’t even opened it. So, I’m looking forward to listening to it in 2024.

There is also word that Baz Luhrmann, director of 2022’s very successful ELVIS movie, might be assembling a re-edit of “lost” footage from documentaries Elvis: That’s The Way It Is (1970) and Elvis On Tour (1972) – possibly as a streaming series à la Peter Jackson’s The Beatles: Get Back (2021). While intriguing, when it comes to any Warner Brothers project involving Elvis, I will believe it when I see it. I am very cautiously optimistic.

I still have a couple of posts to go in that review of Elvis On Tour. Will I ever finish them? I am not sure. Maybe. I will surely continue my re-watch of Elvis’ movies, Lord willing. My goal is to cover at least three Elvis movies in 2024. There is also at least one new-to-me book I would like to feature in a future post.

2023 has been a year full of blessings for me – more than I could ever begin to list here. Know that I count those of you who take the time to read my infrequent ramblings here to be among those blessings.

Thank you for reading. May your 2024 be full of joy.

“I pray that God, the Source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in Him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.”
Romans 15:13

As Recorded At Greensboro Coliseum: ELVIS ON TOUR – First (or Second) Reactions

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I really struggled during my first run-through of CD 3 of Elvis On Tour, as I initially found it disappointing. I decided to give it another try about a week later, so this consolidated review actually represents impressions from both my first and second listens of the show.

I’ve been enjoying the new Elvis On Tour boxed set, so I’m continuing my informal, off-the-cuff reviews. This time, I’ll be listening to CD 3, which captures Elvis Presley’s concert on Friday, April 14, 1972, at the Greensboro Coliseum in North Carolina. Though this show is previously unreleased, it does have 3 songs that appear in the actual movie.

Elvis Presley performing at the Greensboro Coliseum on Friday, April 14, 1972 (MGM)

Also Sprach Zarathustra (Theme from 2001: A Space Odyssey)

See See Rider: Though nothing really distinguishes it, this is a fine 1972 version of “See See Rider.”

Proud Mary: This is a rockin’ version but, much like “See See Rider,” nothing really distinguishes this one from other fine performances of this tune in 1972.

Never Been To Spain: This is an okay version of this song on Elvis’ part, with nothing standing out. “We’ll get the ending right one day,” he notes after completing it.

I must admit, I’m disappointed in this concert so far. I’d been looking forward to it. Hopefully things will pick up. I’m also hoping for a surprise or two in terms of the setlist (I have not read the accompanying booklet yet, which includes the track listing).

You Gave Me A Mountain: I’ve mentioned in previous reviews that this is a poor spot in the setlist to downshift to slow songs. “Polk Salad Annie” right here would be so much better. I love slow songs, but this should be a little later in the show. This is not an especially good version of “You Gave Me A Mountain,” either.

Until It’s Time For You To Go

Polk Salad Annie: The Greensboro crowd reacts loudly as “Polk Salad Annie” begins. I love the wild Jerry Scheff bass guitar solos on the 1972 versions of the song, and this one is no exception.

Love Me: The crowd is definitely enthusiastic in Greensboro. Way to go, North Carolina!

All Shook Up: Elvis offers up a surprisingly spirited version. At least he doesn’t seem bored like he often does on this song.

Teddy Bear/Don’t Be Cruel: I usually don’t enjoy the “oldies” section of the show in 1972, but Elvis again seems enthusiastic on this medley.

Hound Dog: Well, that all just went out the window. Elvis really should have retired “Hound Dog” after 1970. This is a rather poor version.

Heartbreak Hotel: I normally like 1972 versions of “Heartbreak Hotel.” This one is good, though he gets distracted.

A Big Hunk O’ Love: Here we go! “A Big Hunk O’ Love” really takes off! Elvis says, “It’s your big chance, man” during Glen Hardin’s piano solo. I love how this song has two instrumental breaks, one for Glen and the other for James Burton on lead guitar. This should have happened more often. I love this song! So awesome!

Bridge Over Troubled Water: This version of “Bridge Over Troubled Water” appeared in the Elvis On Tour movie. I know some fans consider it Elvis’ best version ever, but I can’t grasp how they can think that when 1970 exists. In any event, it’s fun to hear a 1972 version of this song. As a teen, I remember being surprised to see this in Elvis On Tour when I watched it for the first time. I associated the song with 1970, for it was such a climactic moment in Elvis: That’s The Way It Is, and I didn’t realize he continued performing it after that year.

Suspicious Minds: All right, let’s do it right, Elvis! The start is fairly strong, for 1972. Overall, a decent version. It’s probably the best version of the three I’ve heard so far on this set – which isn’t necessarily a huge compliment. Why did Elvis allow his most recent #1 hit to become almost a throwaway?

As the band begins “Comin’ Home Baby” for the introductions portion of the show, Elvis says, “My first movie, ladies and gentlemen, was Love Me Tender. I’d like to sing that for you,” and the band quickly shifts into “Love Me Tender” instead.

Love Me Tender: A short but fine version. Includes the ad-lib, “You have made my suit turn blue, and I love you so.”

Elvis Presley performing at the Greensboro Coliseum on Friday, April 14, 1972 (MGM)

Comin’ Home Baby/Introductions By Elvis

For The Good Times: I really enjoyed the multiple attempts of “For The Good Times” on the Hollywood Studio CDs of this set. While I prefer studio versions of this song, this live version is still good. Possibly my favorite live version of this song.

An American Trilogy: Dixie/Battle Hymn Of The Republic/All My Trials – This appeared in the Elvis On Tour movie. It’s a great version. I like the Hampton Roads version better, but I can see why they went with this one for the movie – it’s visually better than Hampton. This makes me want to watch the movie again. It’s been a few years.

Burning Love: Oh, cool! Elvis debuts his soon to be hit song, recorded only a couple of weeks earlier. You’ve gotta crank the sound up on this one. Go Elvis! Who cares if some of the words are wrong? It’s the feel of the song. That’s always been the case when listening to Elvis. This Greensboro version of “Burning Love” is possibly my second favorite live version, after San Antonio.

Release Me: This one appeared in the excellent Elvis: The Lost Performances VHS video in 1992. It’s a good version of “Release Me,” but certainly anticlimactic after “Burning Love.”

Funny How Time Slips Away: This is a good 1972 version of “Funny How Time Slips Away.” It will probably be my go-to version for that year. This performance appears in Elvis On Tour. I love finally hearing these songs in context of the full shows. When multiple police officers pull a fan away after trying to reach Elvis on the stage, he says “Let her have that, let her have that, man,” to one of them, handing the officer a scarf to give to the overzealous fan. How cool.

Generally, this song indicates the show is almost over (because time is slipping away). I am hoping he squeezes in at least one more song before the “Can’t Help Falling In Love” finale, though. “Let me drink a little Gatorade, and I’ll sing another song for you,” he says. Maybe!

Can’t Help Falling In Love: Well, darn. The show is just about over. 1972 versions of “Can’t Help Falling In Love” are way too fast, but he does sound good here.

I really wish the show was a bit longer. Most Elvis concerts are around 60 minutes. This one clocks in at 62 minutes. For some reason, it feels shorter than that. The overall Greensboro experience feels unsatisfying compared to Hampton and San Antonio.

Well, 51 years later, I guess I shouldn’t complain since at least I get to hear this show at all. The first listen was definitely disappointing, but I enjoyed it more the second time through, including multiple highlights noted above.

“May the mountains yield prosperity for all, and may the hills be fruitful.”
Psalm 72:3

As Recorded At Hampton Coliseum: ELVIS ON TOUR – First Reactions

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Some Elvis Presley fans have been waiting over 50 years for his record label to release an extensive collection of audio from MGM’s 1972 concert documentary Elvis On Tour. Though there have been some scattered releases over the years, a comprehensive, six-volume set for Elvis On Tour audio finally appeared last month on digital and this week on CD. It’s been only about 30 years of waiting for me, though, as I wasn’t aware of the amount of Elvis On Tour recordings until the early 1990s.

While much of this material has been bootlegged in varying degrees of quality, the vast majority of it has not been officially released. As I tend to avoid bootleg releases, it appears my patience is finally being rewarded.

I don’t really feel like doing a formal review as I did for 2014’s similar That’s The Way It Is: Deluxe Edition, which covered MGM’s 1970 documentary of the same name. While there is less material here, I also have far less time and energy than I did back then. Instead, I am going to write in a “live” stream-of-consciousness type way. I hope you don’t mind. I plan to cover one CD in this first post.

I am cutting the packing tape off the outer shipping box now. I am really not into unboxing videos, but I’m sure you can find one from someone else out there. The packaging wasn’t the best. The outer case of the actual CD set is slightly bulged out on the top. However, it’s acceptable to me. I am liable to mar it myself at some point anyway. So, I’m proceeding to remove the shrink wrap. Otherwise, this would have been the shortest post ever as I arranged a return and exchange.

ELVIS ON TOUR (Sony, 2023) | Credit: Sony

The box art isn’t bad. I like the vintage style logos. Elvis has always looked a little “off” in Elvis On Tour to me, and that is reflected in many of the related photos.

It’s the music I care about, though, so on with Disc 1. I don’t even know which show is up first! Let’s see…

Well, the disc doesn’t even bother to say. Let me check the booklet.

Disc 1 is the Hampton Coliseum in Virginia, April 9, 1972. This concert formed the bulk of the Elvis On Tour movie, for which the four concerts included in this set were recorded and filmed. Outside of the film footage itself, only “An American Trilogy” from this Hampton show has been officially released on audio until now.

Let me hook up my headphones. I don’t want to blast the family out of the house.

The show is over 66 minutes – pretty long for an Elvis concert. He usually kept them at about an hour, probably due to the influence of his Las Vegas stints on his tour shows. The hotel’s priority in Vegas was to get the audience back out into the casino to gamble, so management did not like when his show lasted over an hour. While that wouldn’t have been a consideration as he criss-crossed the country on multiple tours throughout the 1970s, Elvis was definitely a creature of habit.

Also Sprach Zarathustra: Best known as the theme to MGM’s 1968 movie 2001: A Space Odyssey, “Also Sprach Zarathustra” is an exciting way to begin a concert – perfect for Elvis, despite having been written in 1896! It’s unfortunate that a “sound-alike” piece was used in the film itself in lieu of “Also Sprach Zarathustra” due to rights issues with the composition. The inferior piece, called “2001 Alternate,” was re-used in 1981’s This Is Elvis as well. As proven here, Elvis concerts used the real version, not the one you hear in the Elvis On Tour and This Is Elvis movies.

See See Rider: Right off the bat, Elvis sounds a little off. I know this is a good show, though, based on the movie, so I’m not too concerned. This song was used in the 1972 film.

I Got A Woman: This track has audio issues on Elvis’ vocals. He is in the background only. A disappointing way to start the set, I have to say. This song is used in the movie without these kinds of issues. Okay, about a minute or so in, Elvis is now fully audible. Why wouldn’t they fix this? Some fans have done so, taking minutes. Why not a company with the resources of Sony? I will never understand these kinds of missteps on Elvis releases. Well, no matter, it’s just a minute, and on a lesser song at that.

“I’d like to tell you it’s a pleasure to be here in West Virginia,” Elvis jokes. And then we’re on to the next song.

Never Been To Spain: In the realm of useless trivia, former racecar driver Dale Earnhardt, Jr.’s favorite song is Elvis’ version of “Never Been To Spain” (presumably from the As Recorded At Madison Square Garden album). Here in Hampton, this is a decent version. James Burton on electric guitar is a highlight.

You Gave Me A Mountain: Oh, Elvis, it’s too early in the set for such a downer song. But here we go. Just a few weeks into his separation from his wife Priscilla, this is where Elvis was at this time in his life, and I respect that he was attempting to heal through his music. “You Gave Me A Mountain” has never been a huge favorite of mine, but this is certainly a decent and committed version. You can hear the pain in his voice as he sings, “My woman got tired of the heartaches.” This rendition appears in the film.

Okay, I got bored during “You Gave Me A Mountain” and looked up what day of the week this concert was held. It was a Sunday.

Until It’s Time For You To Go: Elvis keeps the pace slow. This was one of his singles in 1972, and it wasn’t a good choice. His voice sure is pretty on it, though. I wasn’t even born when Elvis performed this show, but how I wish I could have somehow been there. I was only two when Elvis died, so never had the chance to see him in concert. In some ways, you could say my intense fandom of Elvis Presley is due to him being ripped away from the world too soon… and this has all been my quest to experience what it would have been like to witness Elvis first-hand.

Polk Salad Annie: Here we go! Elvis picks the pace back up. This song is a showcase for Jerry Scheff on bass. You’ll recognize this performance from the movie, too. It is great to hear the Sweet Inspirations – as this is a showcase song at times for them as well.

“I’d like to do a few oldies but goodies for you, ladies and gentlemen,” Elvis says before launching into “Love Me.” I believe this is the first time I’ve heard Elvis use that phrase – and about his own classic songs at that.

Love Me: It’s a typical 1972 version. In the recent past, he did it much better in 1970.

All Shook Up: The video of this one made its debut on Elvis: The Lost Performances VHS in 1992. This is its first official audio release. It’s really not that notable, however.

Teddy Bear/Don’t Be Cruel: Also from Elvis: The Lost Performances, Elvis has fun with Glen D. Hardin by making him begin the song on piano multiple times before finally singing. This medley isn’t a favorite, but it’s a decent version. Unfortunately, the audio of the “Don’t Be Cruel” part of this performance was later used in the 2010 DVD & Blu-ray release of Elvis On Tour to replace “Johnny B. Goode” over the opening credits due to rights issues. New old stock of that release was included in the physical version of this Elvis On Tour set – i.e., the Blu-ray included in this 2023 set has the butchered opening from 2010. The real selling points of this release are the CDs. I see the Blu-ray as a free bonus disc. Best used as a drink coaster. For the proper opening, I recommend watching the movie by buying/renting a digital version or streaming it. Or catch it during a TV broadcast, of course (how quaint!).

Are You Lonesome Tonight: A beautiful rendition of one of my favorite songs. Featured in The Lost Performances, I’m thrilled finally to have this rendition in my collection.

“Please ‘Release Me,’ baby,” Elvis says, but Glen instead launches into “I Can’t Stop Loving You.” Getting Elvis back for that “Teddy Bear” fun?

I Can’t Stop Loving You: Okay, so I guess the whole segment from “All Shook Up” to “I Can’t Stop Loving You” was in The Lost Performances. Between that release and Elvis On Tour itself, we have most of this concert available in video form. I never thought it would take over 30 years for this audio from The Lost Performances to be released – much less 50 for the audio from the film proper.

Hound Dog: This has the “bluesy” intro, as later featured on the As Recorded At Madison Square Garden album (June 10, 1972). I practically grew up on that album, so I like it. This Hampton version has a little too much “scatting” from Elvis for my taste, though.

Bridge Over Trouble Water: Elvis absolutely conquered this song in 1970. By 1972, it just wasn’t the same, though. Elvis had an unfortunate tendency to speed up a song over time. I guess to fit as much into those 60 minutes as possible.

Suspicious Minds: Wow, this feels way too early in the show for this song. This is a fast version, but he sounds good. His best versions are from 1969 and 1970, but if you can put that aside, the 1972 and 1973 versions are good on their own terms. Oh, to have been there! “Suspicious Minds” is one of those songs I always look forward to on a new-to-me concert. This one was a slight let-down due to Elvis playing around a bit with the audience, but still good. This was my Mom’s favorite song (specifically the Alternate Aloha version).

For The Good Times: Better than the sleepy version later recorded at Madison Square Garden.

Comin’ Home, Baby/Introductions By Elvis

An American Trilogy: Dixie/Battle Hymn Of The Republic/All My Trials – The video and audio from this first appeared in 1981’s This Is Elvis movie and album, albeit with additional instrumental overdubs added after Elvis’ 1977 death. That version is by far my favorite of “An American Trilogy.” The more authentic version here is unfortunately disappointing by comparison. The prominent scream from an audience member prior to the reprise of “Battle Hymn Of The Republic” is still there, at least (I used to wonder if that was overdubbed as well).

I mean, it’s still a great version, but it loses something. Maybe due to not having the overdubs. Anyway, it’s wonderful finally to have it in the context of the full show. A version of this song recorded during a February Las Vegas show was another 1972 single for Elvis. While a powerful and dramatic song in concert, this didn’t make for a great single choice, either.

Love Me Tender: Not a bad version until ruined by Elvis joking near the end of the song.

A Big Hunk O’ Love: By 1972, Elvis wasn’t treating many of his “oldies but goodies” with very much respect. This one is an exception. Fantastic version. This appears in the movie.

How Great Thou Art: Stunning. Probably his best live version. The highlight of this show so far. This can also be viewed on The Lost Performances.

Sweet, Sweet Spirit (J.D. Sumner And The Stamps): I didn’t really “get” this song and thought it was a waste of time in Elvis On Tour until I finally saw the movie on the big screen in 2010. Watching Elvis become lost in the moment while hearing his backing vocalists perform this gospel song at his request was really something special, particularly while being part of the theater audience – and I wasn’t even saved yet at that point of my life.

Lawdy, Miss Clawdy: Oh no, based on what I remember from the movie, the show is nearing its end. No, Elvis, we want more! This is a great version for the 1970s. Probably the best one from that decade, at least of the ones I’ve heard, of course. This one appears in the movie.

Can’t Help Falling In Love: Noooo, the show is indeed ending! This rendition appears in the movie. What a terrific concert. Songs from throughout his career. Different styles. A strong voice.

All in all, a wonderful start to exploring the Elvis On Tour set.

Elvis Presley performing at the Hampton Coliseum on Sunday, April 9, 1972 (MGM)

“After his baptism, as Jesus came up out of the water, the heavens were opened and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and settling on him.”
Matthew 3:16

AXS TV to feature Elvis documentaries in August [Pastimescapes blog]

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Elvis Presley on stage in 1970. (Image courtesy of AXS TV, used with permission.)

Elvis Presley on stage in 1970. (Image courtesy of AXS TV, used with permission.)

North American television network AXS TV will feature multiple Elvis Presley documentaries next month, including the 2000 “Special Edition” version of Elvis: That’s The Way It Is (1970) as well as Elvis On Tour (1972).

Providing a glimpse of the real Elvis, That’s The Way It Is features the singer in rehearsals and on stage for his third concert series at the International Hotel in Las Vegas. Highlights of this must-see film include killer renditions of “Suspicious Minds” and “Polk Salad Annie.” The documentary was Elvis’ 32nd movie, and it airs Tuesday, August 1, at 10 PM Eastern.

Less than two years later, the cameras rolled again for Elvis’ 33rd and final movie, Elvis On Tour. A concert at the Hampton Coliseum in Virginia provides the bulk of the live performances, with other cities including Greensboro, North Carolina and San Antonio, Texas. Studio work, rehearsals, and other behind-the-scenes action demonstrate a hectic yet repetitive schedule. Elvis On Tour airs Tuesday, August 22, at 10 PM.

Though both movies are an important part of the Elvis legacy, the difference between the vibrant performer of That’s The Way It Is and his subdued counterpart in Elvis On Tour is striking. Elvis On Tour certainly has its moments, though, picking up steam in the last half.

The 1981 documentary This Is Elvis mixed archival Elvis footage with reenactments by “actors.” The Elvis footage more than makes up for nauseating, voice-over narration by Ral Donner as “Elvis.” The documentary does a decent job recounting Elvis’ life and career. An updated version, sans imitations, was released as The Great Performances in 1990. The concept is in sore need of updating again, but This Is Elvis is certainly worth a watch. It airs on Tuesday, August 8, at 10 PM.

Wednesday, August 16, marks the 40th anniversary of Elvis’ death. At 9 PM, AXS TV goes back to the early years with the 2001 documentary Classic Albums: Elvis Presley, a look at his 1956 debut album.

AXS TV also serves up Clambake (1967), one of the worst Elvis movies. Check out his 25th film on Tuesday, August 29, at 10 PM, if you dare.

A 2016 fictional movie about “Elvis” (Jonathan Nation) going undercover holds no interest for me. Elvis Lives! airs on Tuesday, August 15, and Wednesday, August 16, at 10 PM if you are into that kind of thing.

Here is the full schedule (all times Eastern):

  • August 1, 10 PM: Elvis: That’s The Way It Is – Special Edition (1970/2000)
  • August 8, 10 PM: This Is Elvis (1981)
  • August 15, 10 PM: Elvis Lives! (2016)
  • August 16, 9 PM: Classic Albums: Elvis Presley (2001)
  • August 16, 10 PM: Elvis Lives! (2016)
  • August 22, 10 PM: Elvis On Tour (1972)
  • August 29, 10 PM: Clambake (1967)
Elvis Presley as he appeared in 1972's ELVIS ON TOUR. (Image courtesy of AXS TV, used with permission.)

Elvis Presley as he appeared in 1972’s ELVIS ON TOUR. (Image courtesy of AXS TV, used with permission.)

UPDATE: August 12, 2017

HDNET MOVIES, sister network of AXS TV, will broadcast an Elvis movie marathon the night of Wednesday, August 16. The marathon will include two of the best (Elvis: That’s That’s The Way It Is and Elvis On Tour) and two of the worst (Paradise, Hawaiian Style and Clambake). At least all of them feature the real Elvis. None of this Elvis Lives! business.

Here is the August 16-17 HDNET MOVIES Elvis schedule (all times Eastern):

  • August 16, 8:30 AM: This Is Elvis (1981)
  • 7:00 PM: Frankie And Johnny (1966)
  • 8:30 PM: Paradise, Hawaiian Style (1966)
  • 10:05 PM: Elvis: That’s The Way It Is – Special Edition (1970/2000)
  • 11:45 PM: Clambake (1967)
  • August 17, 1:35 AM: Elvis On Tour (1972)
  • 3:20 AM: This Is Elvis (1981)
  • 5:10 AM: Paradise, Hawaiian Style (1966)
  • 6:45 AM: Frankie And Johnny (1966)
  • 8:15 AM: Clambake (1967)

Many of the same films will run again throughout the rest of August.