Elvis Presley: Elvis Presley

Classic Albums: Elvis Presley (2001)

*** 1/2 (out of 4)

This episode in the Classic Albums series takes a look at the first rock and roll album from Elvis, which helped start his legend as well as cause a problem for TV and radio stations. Sam Phillips, Ernst Jorgensen, DJ Fontana (drugs on album), Chick Crumpacker (RCA Promo Manager), Dixie Loche (Elvis' girlfriend), Scotty Moore (guitar on album), B.B. King and Keith Richards are among the people interviewed about the album. Fans of Elvis or music in this era should really enjoy this look at the album because you really get a good idea of what was acceptable at the time and how things started to change when Elvis got on the scene. This includes an interesting discussion of how the record label and others feared what would happen by having a white man sing black songs to a mass public. There's also discussions on which covers Elvis should do and why songs like Blue Suede Shoes, That's All Right and Shake, Rattle and Roll were used. Another interesting topic including the touring that Elvis was forced to do during this period and a few stories about some of the other famous artists he met at the time like Johnny Cash.

Fascinating in-depth look at how Elvis got his start and the making of his first album. Deliciously and infectiously entertaining. Recommended.