CBS '77 SPECIAL

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COMING SOON

ELVIS NEW YEARS 1976

THE ELVIS WE DIDNT SEE

"There's no way to explain it except that he was one of a kind. I think he'd be proud to know that he left his mark on the world".

Myrna Smith, Sweet Inspirations.

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Elvis On Tour

"He stood there at the end, his arms stretched out, the great gold cloak giving him wings - a champion, the only one in his class"

Elvis On Tour Critic

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ELVIS PRESLEY 1977, The Fans Still Wanting . . .

Often received with great scepticism in the public domain, but of often historic credibility amongst fans, the much talked about CBS Special of 1977. On a recent online poll, a question raised was whether the FTD label should commence releasing DVD in similar content to their audio releases. Thus bringing me to my online poll, should it be released? While filmed officially for CBS through an independent film maker, the sale of original film reels recently being offered on ebay, the FTD has previously specialised in typically rare and often previously unofficial material. Such re-mastering of
this material improving quality and so challenging the bootleg trade with usual less superior quality. As the special was originally filmed as an official production, the master tapes no doubt exist. And so should the argument. Should the special be released in special edition as was the 68 special and subsequent Aloha From Hawaii. Do we really want a Deluxe Edition? After all, additional footage of the pre concert dressing room presentation to the cancer suffering child exists and would be new to a lot of fans?

While the issue is complex, and my favouritism of the release needing no further argument, I can understand the reserved judgement thus far. With the FTD originally being marketed solely for the clubs and organisations whose members understand historic content equally as much as qualitative. With online sales giants as Amazon etc, the FTD label now markets to the great population. Namely, anyone who has internet access can purchase such material. So what would public perception be?

Generally those fans who would purchase would likely be genuine, however, we must consider eager critics or the unassuming purchaser. I personally believe Elvis was at his vocal peak, an opinion shared by Ray Walker of The Jordanairs. On his recent visit to Ireland, he shared how he emotionally
witnessed Elvis' performance of How Great Thou Art, with so energy on that special, having not seen his for approximately four year prior. Elvis' reprise being the highest ever hit, without the band's knowledge he had intended such a reprisal. This being my favourite performance of this title.
Others must equally be heard. It is painful viewing none the less. Elvis appearing obviously nervous, unhealthy and somewhat incoherent at times. One thing being of paramount importance. His incredible voice unfailing.

With so much arguments for and against, it is no doubt difficult. It does starkly reminds us of that less spoken era of Elvis' career where his demise was showing. With the changes in structure of EPE, maybe they may consider its release. After all, this was a special moment in Elvis' career, not only
recording his final concert moments, but his unquestionable loyalty to his fans. Never letting them down, right to the end...

Text: (c) ElvisOnLine

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