Elvis at Stax. Part One

In this episode I cover the first of 2 recording sessions Elvis did at the Stax recording studio in Memphis.

Samples of all the songs recorded at the sessions are included along with outtakes,studio chatter and fun moments for your enjoyment.

In the Summer of 1973 Elvis endured a demanding schedule with a two-Week tour beginning in Mobile, Alabama, on June 20th, and finally ending on July 3rd in Atlanta Georgia after which he flew home to Graceland.

Awaiting him was a letter from his record company,  RCA, setting out expectations in no uncertain terms.The Company was concerned at the lack of commitment their No 1 recording artist was showing them.

 In a most unusual move, RCA vice president George Parkhill wrote directly to the star: "We are planning a recording session in the middle of July," he informed Elvis, at the same time demanding more control over the recording process.; he was allowed to choose the studio he wanted, as long as he showed up when RCA dictated.

Elvis’s producer Felton Jarvis was required to fill out paperwork exactly as  requested, and was expected to produce a total of twenty-four masters of songs not previously recorded by Elvis. He was instructed  to produce a new pop album of ten songs, new single records (four sides), and ten cuts for a new religious album.

Tired from being on the road, depressed by divorce proceedings, and expecting his daughter Lisa Marie for a month-long visit, Elvis could not have faced the prospect of a string of recording sessions with much enthusiasm

The most practical arrangement was to stay in Memphis, and Marty Lacker, his long time friend and ex Memphis Mafia member, suggested making the 10 minute drive to the Stax studio on McLemore Avenue.

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