Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll, is set to be celebrated with a new box set titled “Memphis,” which is dedicated to his recordings in his hometown. Scheduled for release on August 9, the box set features 111 tracks, with 88 of them newly remixed by Grammy-winning engineer/producer Matt Ross-Spang. This collection, curated by noted Elvis archivist Ernst Jørgensen, spans Presley’s recordings in Memphis from 1954 to 1976, offering a comprehensive look at his work in the city.
The box set includes recordings from iconic studios like Sun, American Sound Studios, and Stax Records, as well as live performances from the Mid-South Coliseum. What sets this collection apart is the removal of overdubs, allowing listeners to experience the raw, unfiltered sound of Elvis in the studio. Ross-Spang’s meticulous mixing brings Elvis’ voice to the forefront, offering a new perspective on the legendary artist’s work.
The significance of Elvis’ recordings in Memphis cannot be overstated. After years in Hollywood making films, Elvis returned to Memphis in 1969 to work with producer Chips Moman and the renowned American Studio group, known as The Memphis Boys. This collaboration resulted in the acclaimed album “From Elvis in Memphis” and a series of hit singles that catapulted Elvis back to the top of the charts.
Elvis’ sessions at Stax in 1973 and the Jungle Room recordings in 1976 reveal a more introspective side of the artist, showcasing his emotional depth and vulnerability. Songs like “Help Me” and “Danny Boy” capture Elvis at a poignant moment in his life, reflecting his personal struggles and artistic evolution.
The upcoming Elvis Week 2024 will pay tribute to the “Memphis” box set with a special concert and storytelling session featuring musicians who worked on Presley’s Memphis recordings. Fans can also look forward to Q&A sessions and panel discussions with experts like Robert Gordon and Matt Ross-Spang, offering insights into Elvis’ musical legacy and creative process.
As we delve into Elvis’ musical journey through Memphis, we gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and emotion that defined his iconic career. The “Memphis” box set serves as a testament to Elvis Presley’s enduring impact on music and culture, inviting listeners to experience his timeless recordings in a new light.