The following line has now been deleted from the official webpage for the concert:

 

**** Please note: This Concert will be available to watch on TV via the Red Button ***

 

I wish they would get these things right!!

 

Brian :(

That's a shame :(

Apparently the BBC has confirmed that Tom Jones will be the star at the 'Forever Elvis' Concert in Hyde Park. From Tom's point of view it is a shrewd move. His latest album is a gospel one and he is just about to release a single from it - 'Run On' - the Elvis track. His audience, being mainy an Elvis one, will favour gospel and it could do him a lot of good chartwise. Of course he was a friend of Elvis' and knew Priscilla well so I suspect he will look forward to appearing. The TCB Band were at the BBC this week-end going through the final details. Could be interesting if they back Jones. He is also appearing at 'The Concert For Heroes' at Twickenham on the same day. Perhaps he will bring Robbie Williams with him.

 

I only hope that the weather is kind to us!!

 

Brian

Official Press Release From BBC Radio 2.

 

Date: 06.09.2010

Category: Radio 2

 

BBC Radio 2 is proud to announce that Sir Tom Jones will be leading the dazzling roster of musicians at Elvis Forever, a concert celebrating the music of Elvis Presley, with Radio 2 Breakfast host Chris Evans and Priscilla Presley, in London's Hyde Park on Sunday 12 September 2010.

 

The line-up of this unique tribute to the king of rock 'n' roll in the year that he would have turned 75 includes KT Tunstall, Scouting For Girls, Imelda May, Fyfe Dangerfield, Jon Allen, Michael Ball, Mica Paris, Tony Christie, The Magnets, Fran Healy (from Travis), Craig David, Tony Hadley and Marti Pellow.

 

These musicians will be accompanied by the TCB Band (Takin' Care of Business), the group who provided the rhythm section to Elvis's band from 1969 until 1977.

 

The evening, which will be broadcast live on Radio 2, will be full of surprise presenters and will culminate in a spectacular firework finale.

 

"I am delighted that Sir Tom can join us to celebrate the music of Elvis Presley, for a night that promises to be very special," comments Lewis Carnie, Radio 2 and 6 Music Head of Programmes.

 

So it looks as though the TCB Band will back most, if not all, of the artists appearing and there will be some surprise guest presenters.

 

Brian

 

This is sounding like it's going to be a great show and will create loads of interest in Elvis which is a really good thing

I tuned in to late, from when they were singing I've Lost You.

But I Loved it :cheer: Michael Ball (Im a fan)was great.and I cried when Elvis sang The Wonder of You :blush:

And the version of Suspicious Minds

'Elvis Forever' Concert Review

 

In order to celebrate the fact that 2010 marks what would have been Elvis' 75th Birthday, BBC Radio 2 organized the 'Elvis Forever' Concert in Hyde Park (London) on Sunday 12th September, 2010.This was the second ever Elvis Tribute Concert held in the UK( the first one being a televised show over twenty years ago). However, this was the first one outdoors. Elvis Presley Enterprises were fully involved with the event and Priscilla Presley agreed to attend.

 

The Concert was given considerable publicity on BBC Radio 2, especially on the Chris Evans Breakfast Show. It was reported that ticket sales were healthy prior to the big day.

 

On the actual day of the event we were blessed with the weather as it was warm with mostly clear skies and no rain. On my arrival at Hyde Park around 5 pm there was a long queue waiting to gain entrance and once inside it quickly filled up to what seemed capacity. As with most Elvis audiences these days the crowd were a very mixed bunch ranging from young to old and all ages in between. As the Concert was held in Central London there were quite a few people speaking in foreign languages so it would appear that tourists also took advantage of attending as one could buy tickets right up to the time of the Concert starting.

 

Small Official Programmes were on sale inside the Concert ground and refreshingly were only £1 each. The Programme Introduction was written by Anthony CHERRY, the Producer of 'Elvis Forever'.

 

It read "ELVIS NEVER REALLY LEFT THE BUILDING, DID HE? He remains in our homes, on the internet, on the telly, and on the radio, everyday. Even while you're listening to other music he's there, because he influenced so many. Without Elvis, there would be no rock 'n' roll and without that...well...un-thinkable.

 

I could quote you statistics. The greatest number of hits; the most gold records; the biggest star on the planet. but somehow, that doesn't explain why Elvis endures. Perhaps it's the legend? The superstar lifestyle...his home in Memphis, Graceland....his unique sense of style? I think it's much simpler. It's the music. Whether you like the rock 'n' roll records; or the movies; or the '68 special; or the Vegas shows, it's the music that draws you to the man. And that's what we're about today.

 

All our artists from Elvis' concert bandmates who are bringing us his authentic sound, to new bands, indie musicians and out-right rockers are celebrating the King of Rock 'n' Roll with you.

 

And what brought you here? Perhaps you're a dedicated fan; or celebrating a special occasion; or seeing a favourite artist? Perhaps it's because you want to be able to say you were at a once in a lifetime event where Elvis sang in Hyde Park. (You will!)...Or perhaps it's because we all know that Elvis will never leave the building. He is with us forever...

 

ENJOY!

 

Anthony Cherry.

Producer, Elvis Forever"

 

On to the actual Concert. Before commencing my review of the various artists I must make it clear from the outset that the opinions given are purely my own and in no way reflect what others might have thought of them. All such reviews must by their very nature be subjective. Further, I am going by memory and some of the details may be inaccurate but I have done my best.

 

The producer Anthony Cherry commenced the proceedings by introducing himself and saying a few words about the Concert. He then introduced Chris Evans (BBC Radio 2 DJ) the compere for the night. Chris bounded on the stage in a typical 'garish' shirt and was in good humour and spirits throughout the Concert. He performed his role admirably and when introducing the artists and tracks proved that he knew what he was talking about with lots of accurate information.

 

'Elvis Overture' - BBC Concert Orchestra

 

The Orchestra was a massive 60 piece one with the men dressed in white Tuxedos and the women in black. They opened in traditional Elvis style by playing what we all know as the '2001 Theme'. I love this music and always get a buzz every time I hear it. A first rate Orchestra with years of experience behind them.

 

'Blue Suede Shoes' - Scouting For Girls

 

This is a very popular group with today's teenagers and they got the show going with a classic Elvis track. The band were 'tight' and the bass player was particularly effective, coming across loud and clear. I was not that impressed with the lead singer but they seemed to be having fun and are known Elvis supporters as they had a Top10 release in the UK recently with 'Elvis Ain't Dead'.

 

'Can't Help Falling In Love' - Fran Healy - TCB Band, BBC Concert Orchestra and Capital Voices.

 

I must be honest in that I found Fran Healy to have a weak voice and not very impressive. He did a routine job on the Elvis track from 'Blue Hawaii'.

 

'I Just Can't Help Believing' - Marti Pellow - TCB Band, BBC Concert Orchestra and Capital Voices.

 

Marti Pellow, former lead singer with popular group 'Wet Wet Wet' has a nice voice and gave a competent rendition of this popular classic track from Elvis' Vegas era. Not an easy song to sing but the TCB Band and Capital Voices (all professional singers in their own right) helped Marti deliver the goods.

 

'My Baby Left Me/That's All Right Mama' - Imelda May + Band

 

I had been looking forward to seeing Imelda May after viewing her performances on YouTube and she did not disappoint. Lots of energy and a great voice and backing band. The classic Elvis tracks were done in true 50's style with slap bass producing a great sound. Most surprisingly, after delivering what had been the highlight of the show so far she did not appear to get the applause she deserved. Most strange and I cannot fathom this one out. Following her performance the compare Chris Evans came on stage and said 'Imelda will be back later if you want her'. Unfortunately she did not return for an encore later as most of the other artists did. Strange!!

 

'Always On My Mind' - Fyfe Dangerfield - TCB Band, BBC Concert Orchestra and Capital Voices

 

A new artist on the scene and one I had never heard of before. His hair style was unkempt covering a lot of his face and I thought that aspect let him down. However, he has a beautiful clear voice and sang 'Always On My Mind' to perfection. Playing acoustic guitar he had minimal backing and did not need it. No doubt we will be hearing more of Fyfe in the future.

 

'You've Lost That Loving' Feelin' - Tony Hadley - TCB Band, BBC Concert Orchestra and Capital Voices

 

Former member of Spandau Ballet, Tony Hadley, is an accomplished singer and did an excellent job on 'Feelin'. He has a strong voice and looked as though he was enjoying the experience.

 

'Burning Love' - Jon Allen - BBC Concert Orchestra and Capital Voices

 

Another new face on the scene, Jon Allen, did a good version of 'Burning Love' without being outstanding.

 

'Are You Lonesome Tonight' - Craig David - BBC Concert Orchestra and Capital Voices

 

A real surprise here for me. Craig David was outstanding and for me was the best singer at the Concert. His rendition of 'Lonesome' was sung with real sensitivity and he made a fan of me instantly. I had never listened to any of his records before but I will now.

 

'Such A Night' - Elio Pace - BBC Concert Orchestra and Capital Voices

 

Elio is also a new name for me and whilst doing 'Such A Night' justice was not particularly outstanding. However, he used the stage well and showed off his piano playing skills by joining the Concert Orchestra player in the middle of the song.

 

'It's Now Or Never' - Tony Christie - BBC Concert Orchestra

 

An old favourite, Tony Christie, sang a straightforward version of 'Never'. Whilst having a good voice, Tony did not add anything to the Elvis original.

 

'If I Can Dream'/'You're The Devil In Disguise' - Nell Bryden + Band

 

Yet another artist I had not heard of before but she performed both tracks well. She is very much in the style of Imelda May and really gave both tracks her all. We will no doubt be hearing more from her in the future.

 

'Return To Sender/'She's Not You' - The Magnets (Acapella)

 

Using only their voices, The Magnets attempted to deliver both songs in novel fashion. Personally I feel they did not come across too well and needed more experience in this genre. However, they were enjoying themselves and did their best.

 

'Love Me Tender' - Fyfe Dangerfield

 

Fyfe's second visit to the stage was to sing the classic Elvis movie track. Again he had no backing but certainly had the crowd singing along with him. This artist has a promising career ahead of him. A good find.

 

 

'All Shook Up'/Johnny B. Goode - TCB Band

 

Suzi Quatro has been an Elvis fan since 1956. She came on stage in her traditional black leathers, turned to the TCB Band and said "Tonight we are going to kick some..."

She then paused and said "Oh I don't know if we are allowed to say that on air - however we are going to kick ASS!! And she certainly did with the help of the TCB Band. She performed both tracks well, particularly 'Johnny B. Goode'. Excellent. She looked a little tired tonight no doubt due to her playing in Germany the night before. A class act.

 

'Leiber And Stoller Medley - BBC Concert Orchestra

 

Now it was the turn of the Orchestra to shine on some Elvis songs and they were very good.

 

'Heartbreak Hotel' - Jon Allen - BBC Concert Orchestra

 

Jon did a fairly good version of this track without being anything special.

 

'I've Lost You' - Mica Paris - BBC Concert Orchestra And Capital Voices

 

Mica, known as the UK's 'Queen Of Soul', has been around a long time and in fact appeared on the first Elvis Tribute Show as mentioned above. She has a powerful voice and delivered an excellent version of the rarely performed Elvis track 'I've Lost You'. She had a minor upset during the first few bars of the song when the microphone was playing up.

 

'Bridge Over Troubled Water' - Tony Hadley - The TCB Band and BBC Concert Orchestra.

 

The second performance by Tony Hadley and he again proved that he has a strong voice singing voice perfectly suited to this type of song. He commented what a great night this was.

 

'You Don't Have To Say You Love Me' - Michael Ball - TCB Band, BBC Concert Orchestra and Capital Voices

 

Michael Ball is better known for his theatrical performances and his most famous role was in the stage production of 'Jolson'. He has an excellent voice and certainly sang this Elvis and Dusty Springfield classic to perfection.

 

'In The Ghetto' - Marty Pellow - TCB Band - BBC Concert Orchestra and Capital Voices

 

Marty's second song at this Concert and he did a really nice version of 'Ghetto' without being exceptional.

 

'Hound Dog' - Scouting For Girls

 

The second song for this young group. Not as good as their first effort mainly due to this track being more suited to a 'performance' a la Elvis.

 

'A Little Less Conversation' - BBC Concert Orchestra and Capital Voices

 

KT Tunstall, a new name to me, sang this very well without adding much to the original. She used the stage throughout.

 

Priscilla Presley

 

It was now the turn of Priscilla to be introduced to the audience and I must say she came over very well and did Elvis proud. She spoke of lost opportunities by Elvis to tour overseas, specifying the UK as being particularly loyal to The King. She emphasized how much Elvis loved his fans and that although he was no longer here in person his spirit was here this night and that his main love was singing for his fans. On behalf of all the Presley family she thanked the fans for their continuing loyalty. At this stage of the proceedings quite a few fans were expecting Lisa Marie to be introduced to the audience by Priscilla but apparently she was not in attendance. Personally, I find this very strange behaviour by Lisa. Now living about forty miles from the Concert venue she cannot bother to attend. Very disappointing.

 

Priscilla then introduced Sir Tom Jones, who had received top billing. He performed three Elvis tracks, one of them 'Run On' being his latest single release and two others - 'Tryin' To Get To You' and an unrehearsed 'One Night'. All three were performed very well but in a routine fashion for Jones. Of course one can see why he became famous - his voice. However, he belts songs out without thought for 'feeling'. He said that he had been friends with 'Elvis Presley' (note he did not use the more friendly 'term 'Elvis'). He gave a plug to his latest album and then was off. Interestingly, prior to leaving the stage he appeared to be in deep conversation with James Burton and I'm sure the crowd thought he was going to do another encore but he did not. Be interesting to know what they were talking about - I would not be surprised to find Burton or the TCB band on Jones' next album!!

 

Then came the highlight of the evening - THE KING on the big screen singing 'The Wonder Of You' backed by the TCB Band, of course, and the BBC Concert Orchestra. James got a big cheer when Elvis said "Play The Song James" and the big screen focused on James as he was then and now. Again, I appreciate that this was a Tribute Concert but I do feel that Elvis should have sang three songs, perhaps 'Suspicious Minds' and 'American Trilogy' or 'If I Can Dream'. They would really have got a great crowd response.

 

Then Chris Evans introduced 'Suspicious Minds' from the Las Vegas Cirque Du Soleil production 'Viva Elvis' and as it happens, Elvis' forthcoming single release here in the UK. The single is taken from the 'Viva Elvis' album but the BBC Concert Orchestra played along with it. The crowd were bopping and moving around to this. At the same time as the track was being played a firework display lit up the sky all around the big stage. A fitting ending to a memorable evening and all for around £30. Excellent value for money.

 

Throughout the Concert some 'surprise' guests were introduced including cricketer Freddie Flintoff; news reader Moira Stewart; TV presenter Melanie Sykes and two radio One DJ's, one female and one male whose names I cannot remember. All said a few words in praise of Elvis.

 

It must be said that ALL artists appearing, famous and new, gave their best on the night and did Elvis proud. My comments, as already stated, reflect my personal opinions and preferences although I have tried to be objective.

 

As a final comment on the Concert - YES - it would have been great if more big names had been there but then again ticket prices would have been excessive.

 

As you can imagine, the crowds attempting to leave the Park all at once would have created havoc without the police erecting barriers and staggering them leaving the Park, particularly due to this being a heavy traffic area. However, the crowd mood was totally defused at the Marble Arch Exit by a member of the police force with a microphone. He told jokes all the time the people were waiting and he was really funny - the crowd loved him.

 

All in all a great day out and one that did Elvis proud.

 

 

Brian

Wow, nice one Brian, thanks for that. I really enjoyed reading it. I am a massive fan of Michael Ball, so i am glad he did a great job. It sounded like it was a super night, :yahoo: sorry i missed it. :(

 

Good to hear young, old and different nationalities were present. Great night for Elvis, who will never be forgotton. :cheer: :wub:

Fantastic review, Brian It was really good to hear in detail about the concert as, unfortunately, I haven't been able to listen to it yet, but I will in the next day or so. It must have been a brilliant atmosphere! I was extra pleased to read your review as, the only report I'd seen was this one from the BBC and I was not well pleased with it as they didn't even mention the concert, just interviewed the usual few dressed in jumpsuits :angry: As often happens, it gives the impression that Elvis fans are a weird lot who go around in jumpsuits and stupid wigs when the truth is, that the vast majority of fans are 'normal' people, wearing normal clothes who just happen to love Elvis music! Anyway, here is the report :

 

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-11279580

 

Oh, and before I forget, here are some photos from the concert, posted on the Official Elvis site :D

 

http://photos.elvis.com/

Just found this B)

 

Just found this B)

 

 

 

 

Woooooo, nice one Carole. Pretty good! :yahoo:

Woooooo, nice one Carole. Pretty good! :yahoo:

 

Very Nice! :yahoo: