Colin Paul & The Persuaders

HELLO MEMPHIS 12th JUNE 2025

Here is the front artwork for the upcoming album 'HELLO MEMPHIS'

Recorded live at Marlowe's in The Kings hometown of Memphis Tennessee.

4 shows with around 100 songs were recorded with only a few repeats. So at the moment its the hard task of choosing which songs actually go on the album. I can tell you once the songs are chosen in the next week or so, the full track listing will be posted here. Also a special Deluxe Extended Version will be available to Download. Some of the songs featured will be...Let's Have a Party, Little Darlin, I Got a Feelin' in My Body, Good Time Charlies Got The Blues, Where Do You Come From, Ain't That Loving You Baby, True Love Travels on a Gravel Road, Inherit The Wind, Any Day Now, If I Were You, Baby I Don't Care, Hard Headed Woman, Crawfish, I Really Don't Want to Know, Young And Beautiful, Lover Doll, Make Me Know It, I'll Remember You and many more.

FULL RELEASE DETAILS AND TRACK LISTING FOR CD AND DOWNLOAD COMING SOON !

ALBUM AND RECORDING NEWS 22nd May 2025

A lot of folks are asking about new recordings....

Colin is currently mixing down a recording of his show at Marlowe's Restaurant in Memphis and this will be released in August. All details and track listing will be posted here in the coming weeks.

In other album news Colin is back working on his latest Presley Project album entitled 'Rockin The Sixties'. This album has been over two years in the making and due to his busy schedule has been put on hold several times. Colin says it’s been a long process due to gigs and prioritising contractual recording material. Which leads us on nicely to news that Colin is also working on a new original album of country songs for a 2026 release. A promo video/song to promote the album will be available towards the end of the year and lookout also for news of a brand new Rock 'n' Roll album coming soon !

RETURN TO MEMPHIS 21st May 2025

This August Colin will return to Memphis for several shows including his infamous Pool Party at The Days Inn at Graceland, Marlowe’s Ribs n Restaurant and Graceland Pavillion. All dates and venues can be found on our events page. Also see posters on left or for a larger look click on 'Colin Paul' in the menu.

PASTURES NEW 20th May 2025

Hi and welcome to our latest update. Martin Davies our bass player has decided to leave for pastures new. Martin feels a complete musical change is the way to go and has joined a Manchester Indie Band called The IndieTweeners. Martin first joined The Persuaders right at the very beginning in 1995 and left briefly due to bereavement in 2006. He will play out 3 gigs with the persuaders. They are The Sheraton Hotel in Blackpool in June. Tale of Two Kings show in Manchester in August and his final show will be at our Billy Fury wkd in November at The Savoy Hotel in Blackpool. All other gigs will be covered by another Ex Persuader Bassist Chris Evans. We wish Martin all our very best wishes with his new venture and much success xxxx

INSPIRATIONAL PERFORMANCES 2nd April 2025

SWEET INSPIRATIONS PAGE IS UPDATED WITH MANY PHOTOS. CHECK IT OUT !

In September of 2004 and 2005 Colin Paul and The Persuaders through Yesterday Once More teamed up with Elvis Presley's Concert and Studio backing singers from 1969 to 1977 'The Sweet Inspirations'. Colin remembers first meeting the girls at Heathrow Airport where he met them and brought them to Elvis Week at Hemsby which was at Pontins in those days. They met the band ten minutes before walking on stage and every song was spot on. The Show lasted 60 minutes.

The performance was filmed by Southwest Audio and many clips are on YouTube.

The response was massive and so much so that they were brought back again the next year by promotor Kelvin Ford for a 90 minute show which was filmed by an independent film company for a HD DVD release. Unfortunately the sound crew fell out with the film crew after the show and it was never seen or released. We know it's out there somewhere so we can only hope. Songs included Bridge Over Troubled Water, See See Rider, My Boy, I can't Stop Loving You, Let Me Be There, The Wonder of You, If I Can Dream, Burning Love, Hurt and many more. Clips can be found on YouTube filmed by the audience. Colin remains friends with the girls although Myrna Smith passed away on Christmas Eve 2010. Colin met up with Estelle Brown earlier this year at Graceland and talked a while about the shows and of course Elvis.

PS You can read the story of The Sweet Inspirations and see many great photos from their ealry days and times with Elvis on our Sweet Inspirations Page.

IN SUMMER 31st MARCH 2025

Fancy a Rockin’ wkd break this summer in Liverpool ?

Come and Join top Rock 'n' Roll Bands ‘The Bobcats’ and ‘Colin Paul & The Persuaders’ Plus ‘Danny Reno’ with the sounds of Roy Orbison plus Colin Paul's Billy Fury Show and ‘The Nutty Brothers’ featuring Billy on the big screen for a Billy Fury Rock ‘n’ Roll weekend in his hometown from the 4th-6th July.

The liner Hotel is a superb venue with a magnificent ballroom all furnished in the style of a cruise liner. Fabulous bedrooms' double or single, Delicious food and drink and the location is perfect as it's right in the heart of this fabulous city.

If you don’t fancy the drive why not book a train direct to Liverpool as the hotel is right next to lime street station.

See flyer on the left for more details or checkout www.yesterdayoncemore.co.uk for all details and booking. You know it makes sense !!!

TALE OF TWO KINGS 19 MARCH 2025

As part of our 30th Anniversary celebrations ' We are bringing our 'Tale of Two Kings' Show back to Manchester for a one off show. As Always it will feature The Passionettes providing fabulous backing vocals to the sounds and Hits of Billy Fury and Elvis Presley.

Colin Paul and The Persuaders have been working with The Passionettes for 19 years and look forward to bringing this great show back to Manchester where it all started.

A Tale of Two Kings will conclude our 30th anniversary tour & will begin a 'new era'.

You can catch this show on 30th August 2025.

Tickets are £14.00 Also Featuring Billy and Elvis on the big screen and additional music provided by Top Manchester DJ Frankie.

For Tickets Call Bob Ling on 07778311110

Tickets are ON SALE NOW See Poster for all details.

THE BEAT GOES ON 17 MARCH 2025

Colin Paul & The Persuaders 30th Anniversary Shows are well under way Kicking off recently in Liverpool, followed by Nottingham, Blackpool, Manchester, Carlisle and on going to Taunton, Leeds, Liverpool and more added dates in Blackpool and Manchester.

SEE EVENTS PAGE FOR DETAILS. Our March Billy Fury Wkd in Blackpool is now fully booked and bookings are now being taken for Liverpool at The Liner Hotel In Liverpool [See Video Below]

youtu.be/OIK8H3NWfss?si=4BBU3XN7gjvCXXZc

MEMORIES OF MEMPHIS LIVE 11 MARCH 2025

Due for release on Friday 21st March is 'The Memories of Memphis' Album featuring Colin Paul & Rockin' em. This will be a download only album to start with, a physical copy could be made available at shows. I will keep you posted and post links here when available. As previously mentioned Colin Paul & Rockin' em will be teaming up again later this year in Wantage at The Beacon Theatre and Spain at The Puente Real Hotel in Torremolinos. See events page for dates. Here is the Link to purchase Tickets for Wantage..... Tickets £17 available at https://www.beaconwantage.co.uk/.../memories-of-memphis.../

Watch The Video Below For More Details.

youtu.be/S1OXMOWvFhw?si=teeq3v592J7UrlL9

UNRELEASED FURY LYRICS 2nd MARCH 2025

Colin Paul recently recorded 'I Need Your Love' a song written by Billy Fury in late 1982. Colin was given Billy's hand written lyrics by Billy fan Barbara Carlyon. Barbara was given a note book of Billy's by his then manager Tony Read. The note book was in Billy's briefcase and contained setlists and lyrics here and there including 'In Danger' that Colin recorded a few years back. Barbara got in touch recently after rediscovering the notebook and asked if anything could be done with the song. Colin passed them to Writers and producers Geoff Taggart and Toni West. Both Geoff and Toni finished the song off perfectly by adding the music and the Chorus. The Video focuses on Billy supposedly looking out onto The Mersey and reminiscing about his childhood in Liverpool, working on the Tug Boats and his early career. We hope you enjoy the song and the Video as much as we enjoyed putting it together.

You Can Watch The Video Here...

youtu.be/aL7JsaSRA_o?si=uoP4R_nicestmfpE

MEMORIES OF MEMPHIS SHOW 5 FEBRUARY 2025

On Sunday 2nd February Colin teamed up once again with top Rock 'n' Roll Band Rockin' em for a superb show and tribute to Elvis called 'Memories of Memphis' This was the second time this show has been held at 'The Rockin' Lounge' in Kettering and as last time it was a sell-out.

Colin say's I love this show as its something quite different and featuring lots of songs you wouldn't hear normally. Right from the early Rockabilly days, through the hits, The TV Appearances, Movie, Gospel and Concert songs. There really is something for everybody.

Colin was joined on stage by Kev Marlow, Dion Marlow, Gene Crosby and Dan Whitwell. Thanks to Lisa Marlow for all her help in organisation and Thanks to all who attended and made it the great event it was.

Colin Paul and Rockin' em will be teaming up again later this year in Wantage at The Beacon Theatre and Spain at The Puente Real Hotel in Torremolinos. See events page for dates, 'Yesterday Once More' page for Spain event and details of the Beacon Theatre will be posted here very soon. Special Thanks to Rockin' em for their friendship and inspiration.

NOTTINGHAM ROCKS 3 FEBRUARY 2025

This past weekend on Saturday 1st February Colin Paul and The Persuaders took to the stage at a place they first played at over 25 years ago. The Festival Inn' Trowell kicked off the bands series of shows to commemorate & celebrate 30 years of The Persuaders. The place was packed and it was great to see it once again in it's prime like it used to be. Way back in 1995 when The Band first started out they hit the cabaret clubs played a varied selection of 50s/60s rock n roll. Very soon they were an established Manchester band has Colin's previous band 'The Stormbeats' were. This time Colin wanted to play further a field than just Manchester. Colin's good friends Mo and Bob Cooper knew and often attended a rock n roll weekend in Skegness run by Sandy and Phil Rice. They kindly had a word and on their recommendation Colin and the lads were booked on The Skeggy Weekender at Richmonds Holiday park, Skegness. It was a huge success and very soon The Persuaders were being booked all over the country. Including many other clubs like The Festival Inn and amongst others Lace Web Rock n Roll Club in Nottingham again Run by Phil and Sandy. The rest is history as they say, so it was a complete pleasure to be able to return as a band and kick start our 30th anniversary celebrations. A huge thanks to all who came, So many friends to mention but each and everyone of you are so much appreciated by us all.

CAVERN FURY 27 JANUARY 2025

On Sunday 26th January for the 3rd year running Colin Paul and The Persuaders SOLD OUT The Cavern Club in Liverpool. Once again with their Rockin' Like Fury Show it was a massive success. The Audience were up for a great afternoon and that's exacly what it was. Colin, Jeff, Martin, Joh and Paul had a lot of fun on stage as did the crowd. The Atmosphere was truly electric and if you were there 'thank you if you were' you will know what i'm talking about. Colin and The Persuaders performed two sets. The first being a great Tribute show to Liverpools own Billy Fury and the second set being mainly a Rock n Roll set featuring the fifties influences of Rock n Roll that inspired Merseybeat and ofcourse plenty of more Billy Fury in therev too. Colin can Confirm the show will go ahead again next January 2025 on Sunday 25th. Tickets be be onsale soon and we will post a link right here on this page as soon as they are available. Click on our Video page to watch Highlights from our Billy Fury Show at The Cavern !

BACK TO GERMANY 22 JANUARY 2025

On his return from The States it was four days rest before Colin jumped back on a Plane and headed out for an amazing weekend in Germany. The last time he was there was in 2019 then as we know the world went crazy.

This next show had been two years in the making and it was a pleasure to share the stage once again with Chris Aron and his fabulous band. Chris and the guys came on first and did a great set of Elvis Rockabilly numbers. They are Excellent musicians and it was a pleasure to share the stage with them.

A huge Thank you Markus Henfling and business partner Roland Bär for putting on the special show to commemorate Elvis 90th Birthday. Colin has worked for Markus and Roland since 2012 and every event has been a huge success. It has been way too long since he was last with these guys and it was great to be back in Germany with its lovely people. Colin has made many great friends over there over the years and it was so good to see lots of familiar faces.

For the second part of the show Colin entered the stage and was backed by Chris and his band with songs that stretched from the 50s to the 70s and of course ended with Hurt before Chris joining Colin on stage for three encores. A 400 capacity filled theatre with such a great atmosphere.

Colin Says Thank you Markus and your lovely family for making me feel so welcome. I look forward to returning !!!

WINTER WONDERLAND IN MEMPHIS 15 JANUARY 2025

Hello and Happy New Year to you all. Colin has just returned from another successful trip to Memphis Tennessee to commemorate the 90th Birthday celebrations for The King. Yes Elvis would of been 90 ! Can you believe that ? Did you catch Colin's Live feed from Graceland on January 8th ?

Colin's shows at Marlowe's Ribs n Restaurant are always a great success and with Elvis fans from all over the world in attendance for both shows at this iconic venue it doesn't get any better than that as It's always nice when members of Elvis's family and friends are in attendance too. There is truly something very magical about Marlowe's as well as the amazing food and drink of course, and if ever your in town you must visit. Don't forget to give them a call from your Hotel and they will pick you up free of charge and take you back. Just a customary tip is always a nice gesture.

It just so happened during the Birthday Week celebrations a massive snow storm swept in and turned the whole deep south into a beautiful Winter Wonderland. Graceland has always looked beautiful no matter what time of year, but there is something special when the snow falls. Enjoy these wonderful photos of Graceland in the snow ! If you are a follower of Colin on Facebook you will see many more fabulous pics of Graceland and the surrounding area in the snow. If your not then why not send a friend request to https://www.facebook.com/ColinPaul1962/

Don't forget you can join Colin in Memphis this August once again at Marlowe's Ribs n Restaurant as well as his Legendary Pool Party at The Days Inn at Graceland and other shows T.B.A.

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY 30th ANNIVERSARY 24 DECEMBER 2024

Colin Paul and The Persuaders would like to wish you all a very happy and peaceful Christmas and New Year. We cant believe that we are approaching our 30th anniversary in 2025. in case you didn't know the story goes like this...

Whilst comparing at a social club, which Colin had done for a number of years, he got chatting to some musicians Jeff Weston [Guitar] and Tony Bolton [Keyboards] who suggested he should hook up with them and form a band, after some soul searching, that lasted 2 seconds, he immediately accepted. We brought in Brian Jones on Drums and Martin Davies on Bass. The race was on to get a Rock 'n' Roll show together and get back out on the road. Only this time to spread our wings further and travel the length and breadth of the UK and beyond. Our first gig was on August 12th 1995 in our hometown and the rest as they say is history. You can read and catch-up with the rest on our Biography page. Our First anniversary gig is at The World Famous Cavern on 26th January. Unfortunately that show is sold out but you can still catch up in February at The Festival Inn, Trowell Notts on Saturday 1st February. You can definitely pay on the door for that one. The Festival was one of the first places we played and even after several gigs there over the years its still always a buzz and such a great night playing for one of the best Rock n Roll in the country. There will be lots of anniversary gigs during the year with the tour finishing up back in our home town of Manchester with a Special 'Tale of Two Kings' Show featuring The Passionettes. See Poster on Tale of Two Kings Page for all details. Just keep an eye on our events page.

MEMORIES OF MEMPHIS SHOW 15 DECEMBER 2024

Colin Paul will be joining forces once again with his good friends and top band Rockin' em Due to such high demand they are bringing back to The Rockin' Lounge in Kettering the most popular event to date on Sunday 2nd February. This show last Christmas went down an absolute storm so it promises once again to have you Rockin' to the sounds of The King with some hits, some Movie songs, some of his live hits and much much more. Every song guaranteed to have you on the dance floor.

Tickets are NOW ON SALE from www.rockinlounge.square.site.

Colin and the band have two more shows booked for 2025 in Wantage and Spain.

Checkout Rockin'em on their website by clicking the link below.

www.rockinem.com/

SOLD OUT CHRISTMAS 11 DECEMBER 2024

Hope you are all ready for Christmas and looking forward to the big day and celebrations. Having just performed my first and second of four special Christmas shows. The 2 remaining Christmas and Gospel Concerts are now both completely SOLD OUT.

All Tickets for New Years Eve in Altrincham are now SOLD OUT too.

Thanks to all who have purchased a ticket for my favourite shows of the year. Safe Travels to all and don't forget your Christmas jumpers.

Yesterday Once More Page Updated.

Billy Fury Weekend page updated.

Tale of Two Kings page updated.

Elvis Week at Hemsby page updated

GOING BACK TO GERMANY 20 NOVEMBER 2024

On January 18th 2025 Colin will be performing his Elvis Show in Germany. It will be Colin's first visit since Covid and he cant wait. His good friend and promotor Markus Henfling is promoting a special Concert for Elvis 90th Birthday.

Happy Birthday Elvis ! at the Reichshof Cultural Stage in Bayreuth. January 18, 2025, 7:30 pm.

Live on Stage: Colin Paul as well as Chris Aron and his fabulous band The Croakers. It's gonna be a great night of Rock 'n' Roll Presley Style.

Tickets are available at

https://okticket.de/tickets-happy-birthday-elvis-bayreuth-reichshof-2025-01-18-e49105?event_id=49105&fbclid=IwY2xjawGp4q1leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHZYBOSRJ3quRWa3L05z3NJhrSkVmt6eMwDpFnIAkjOfIZzn23ISdfLLMiw_aem_NllD9c7CmZR7pBo8yDJKnQ&cookiecheck=true

Colin has played many concerts for Markus with many of Elvis friends and associates involved in the shows. Markus Elvis Weekends are the best in Germany and his many guests have included Dick Grob, George Klein, Cynthia Pepper, Mindi Miller, Joe Esposito, The Imperials, The TCB Band, Sam Thompson, Charles Stone and many more.

This Show will be filmed and Recorded

OH HOLY NIGHT 19 NOVEMBER 2024

Are you getting ready for Christmas but cant get that Christmas Spirit feeling ? Then let me help you. Colin Paul Returns to St Martins Church in Ashton Upon Mersey in Sale Cheshire on Thursday 12th December. This show is almost Sold Out. With only 7 Tickets remaining please Call 07736-683141 to purchase your ticket. As always refreshments will be served FREE after the Concert in the Church Hall or you can join Colin for a pint in the local pub just down the road. Tickets are £7.00 and are available on the above number.

The Following evening on Friday 13th December Colin takes his Elvis Christmas and Gospel Show to Pershore Baptist Church. As a little Christmas gift....This show is FREE yes FREE. All you have to do is visit the Pershore Baptist Website and request tickets. See Poster for all details. As with the above show refreshments will be served after the concert.

If you cant wait till then and you live in the Derby area then Colin will be at The Ashbourne Road Church on Monday 9th December. Tickets for this show are £7.00 and can be purchased by calling 07952-751635 Again see posters on the left for all details. HO HO HO.

Elvis Presley Recorded and Performed many great Christmas and Gospel songs/Carols. Come and here Colin sing amongst others....

The Wonderful World of Christmas

I'll Be Home For Christmas

We Call on Him

So High

If I Get Home on Christmas Day,

Working on The Building

If Everyday Was Like Christmas

Holly Leaves and Christmas Trees

The First Noel

Swing Down Sweet Chariot

Joshua Fit The Battle of Jericho

Milky White Way

Amazing Grace

It Wont Seem Like Christmas Without you

Silent Night

White Christmas

Turn Around Look at Me

On a Snowy Christmas Night

If The Lord Wasn't Walking by my Side

Oh Little Town of Bethlehem

Blue Christmas

Where No One Stands Alone

Here Comes Santa Claus

and of course the ever popular 'How Great Thou Art' plus many many more

There may be one or two songs included that Elvis never did record or perform but should/could of done. You'll just have to attend the shows to find out.

Come along and let's kick off the Christmas Celebrations Elvis Style together. Hope you can make one of the shows.

JUST IN !

As many of you know Colin first started his Christmas Gospel show at St Mary's Church in Eastwood. After John Eyre passed away a few years back the shows stopped but Colin hoped they would return. After a few years of trying and again this year they finally decided to bring the Gospel show back. Unfortunately it was too late for Christmas but a show has been agreed and will take place on Monday 8th February. Poster and Details will be posted here very soon. Colin very much looks forward to returning to where it all started.

Tale of Two Kings 18 NOVEMBER 2024

Hi' We are pleased to Announce as part of our 30th Anniversary celebrations next year' We are bringing our 'Tale of Two Kings' Show back to Manchester for a one off show.

As Always it will feature The Passionettes providing fabulous backing vocals to the sounds and Hits plus more of Billy Fury and Elvis Presley.

Tickets are ON SALE NOW See Poster for all details.

Colin Paul and The Persuaders have been working with The Passionettes for 18 years and with just a few weeks back completing a show in Hemsby. They will also be back next November. See the Yesterday Once More Page.

Before then you can catch them in Manchester on 30th August 2025. Tickets are £14.00 for this Theatre type show. Featuring Billy and Elvis on the big screen and additional music provided by Top Manchester DJ Frankie.

For Tickets Call Bob Ling on 07778311110

On The Road Again 17 NOVEMBER 2024

Hello everyone and apologies for the delay in updates. It's certainly been a very busy few months with the band and solo. We have just returned from our sold out events in Blackpool and Hemsby. Before that as you know colin was in Memphis then Denmark then Spain as well as the many clubs' hotels etc up and down the UK including Torquay for boogaloo promotions and Bournemouth for Allways Music and Blackpool for Fyld Coast Caberet. Denmark was fabulous with Colin working alongside Elvis keyboard player The Legendary Glen D Hardin who was also with The Crickets once upon a time. The show was a great success for Memphis Mansion who also produced Colin's latest Single Old Friend/Singing With Angels. Colin performed Welcome To My World, It's Now or Never and My Boy amongst others and what a great show and atmosphere it was too. In Spain Colin unexpectedly got the chance to work with a fabulous young band called The Runawayz. It was a last minute adjustment to the show as the singer for the night had lost his passport. Colin and the lads put on a fifties Elvis Rock n Roll show and it was great. Colin also performed his solo show as well as a special performance for an hawaiian themed night. Always fun with Yesterday Once More. Speaking of Yesterday Once More... Colin Paul and The Persuaders headlined the annual Elvis Week at Hemsby along with the Passionettes. The Band and the girls were great and the show consisted of many Elvis songs the guys including Colin had never performed before. Songs included a great jiving version of I Washed my hands in Muddy Water. Other songs were Loving Arms, They Remind Me Too Much of You, T.R.O.U.B.L.E, Faded Love, Doing The Best I Can, King Creole, I Got a Feeling in my Body and many more. Unfortunately Colin had a sore throat and was very hoarse on most of the numbers. He could and perhaps should of cancelled but did not want to let the 300 plus crowd down. The crowd loved it and were behind him all the way. Colin performed for 55 minutes and only cut the show short by 2 songs. Bridge Over Troubled Water and Hurt. Those 2 powerful numbers would just not be possible in this situation. Luckily Colin doesn't suffer with sore throats too much and promises to deliver those two next year. It was then home for 5 days rest then onto Blackpool for the sold out Billy Fury wkd. Again a great success and Colin and the guys rocked the place along with Vince Hughes and Mark Keeley's Good Rockin' Tonight all held together nicely with the nutty brothers Neil and Andy.

New Single From Colin Paul 18 September 2024

Announced today A brand new 7" Vinyl Single from Colin featuring Old Friend and Singing with Angels plus two Bonus songs by an old friend.

Memphis Mansion in Randers Denmark are proud to announce this great new release COMING THIS OCTOBER. You can order now from Memphis Mansion by visiting https://www.memphismansion.dk/.../colin-paul-elvis.../

Colin hopes to also have copies by mid October also.

SEE VIDEO ON HOME PAGE FOR MORE DETAILS.

30th Anniversary Celebrations 17 September 2024

Hello' Its certainly been a busy couple of Months, July was a great busy month for both Colin's solo shows and with The Persuaders. The Yesterday Once More Billy Fury Weekend was a great success and with that it has been booked again next July back at The Fabulous Liner Hotel in the heart of Liverpool. August was a roller coaster month in The States with several shows on Elvis Presley Boulevard including Marlowe's and Colin's infamous pool party amongst others. All shows were recorded successfully and the highlights will be released in the new year on 2 separate CD's Live at Marlowe's and Live at The Days Inn. Titles and track listing to be confirmed.

On Colin's return from the states it was straight back to the music with a sold out four day Rock N Roll event in Liverpool then returning after a six week break with The Persuaders to another packed house in Streford Manchester.

As mentioned in the previous post the new single that Colin Recorded written by Billy Fury will be released before the end of the year. As of today Tuesday 17th September there are only 7 rooms available. To book or ask for Details please call Diane on 01253-318726.

A new volume in Colin's 'Fit For a King' Series is currently being recorded as is a new album of original material. plus two new albums in the long awaited Presley Project series. A special news update on the new albums including Titles, track listings and dates for release will be posted here soon.

Next Years 'Colin Paul and The Persuaders 30th Anniversary' shows kick off at The Cavern [ALREADY SOLD OUT] on Sunday 26th January then onto a big celebratory show in Nottingham, followed by Carlisle, Taunton, Leeds, Blackpool, Liverpool, amongst others to be announced including details of a special 30th Anniversary performance of their 'TALE OF TWO KINGS' SHOW with The Passionettes featuring two Big Screens in a special tribute to Elvis and Billy as well as featuring lots of footage from the persuaders from the last 30 years. 'Should be good for a laugh'. Hopefully we will have a couple of special guest on the show too. Please Pencil in 'SATURDAY 30TH AUGUST' Full details of this fabulous show will be released once everything is in place and secured to be what promises to be the grand finally of the 30th anniversary celebrations. Below is a collage of pics from the past with members past and present, Also including pics taken on our first publicity photo shoot on The Golden Hind, Newark American Retro Wkd. The Jive Inn, The Montrose Club in Liverpool with Albie Wycherley, and of course one of the highlights of our career working with Elvis Backing Singers from 1969-77 'The Sweet Inspirations' at Hemsby, Great Yarmouth.

The Fury Sound of 2024 29 JULY 2024

Hello and welcome to a new week. Colin was recently given some hand written lyrics to a song Billy Fury started to write and did not finish. The song is called 'I Need Your Love' The Lyrics were given to Colin by long time Billy fan Barbara Carlyon. Barbara acquired the lyrics from Billy's manager Tony Read many years ago and recently rediscovered them. Colin passed on the lyrics to songwriters Geoff Taggart and Toni West. The song had verses and no chorus so Geoff and Toni wrote a chorus for the song then set to on finding a suitable tune to fit the lyrics. When Colin recorded 'In Danger' another unreleased song from Billy, we had a tune for that number as there is a brief recording of Billy singing the song. I Need Your Love had no tune until now. The song is now complete and finished and will be released sometime in October. Colin was recently in Liverpool on a Billy Fury Weekend and shot a video to the song in Billy's home town. More news on exact release date soon.

Yesterday Once More page updated.

2025 gig guide added and updated.

CPP 30th Anniversary 22 JULY 2024

Hello everyone, Sorry for the late updates. Lots going and and lots to tell you. First off thanks to all who have supported myself solo or with the band these past few months. It's been a busy ride into the summer and we are still waiting for the sun to shine. Speaking of Sun my album Made in Memphis has done very well and the best way to get it if you want extra tracks recorded at this iconic studio is the purchase the download version on either Itunes or Amazon. You can also purchase it direct from me via email at colinpaul1@hotmail.com only one extra bonus track on the cd but several on the download. See Albums page for all details.

We have had some great gigs recently on the Rock 'n' Roll scene. Been great to return to some of our fave clubs and we recently had a great wkd in Liverpool at The Liner Hotel for our In Summer Billy Fury Wkd. We shall return next July 'See Yesterday Once More Page for details' Our Billy Fury Wkd in Blackpool this November is ALMOST SOLD OUT. Only five rooms are available as of today Monday 22nd July. See Add on our Billy Fury page or call Diane on 01253 318726 for flyer or details.

We have some great Rock n Roll gigs down south in October namely for Boogaloo promotions and Always music. Again posters with full details are on our Persuaders page.

Tickets are still available for our Elvis - 'The Rock n Roll Years' Show in Sale Cheshire at Sale Excelsior Club on Friday August 2nd. For Tickets call Sarahlea on 07736683141. See poster for details.

I recently returned from my very first gig in Scotland. I played Portpatrick on the west coast. What an amazing gig it was and I'm happy to say I have been rebooked for next year. Date to be announced very soon.

I'll soon be returning to Memphis for Elvis week and playing several shows in the kings home town. Once again the highlight will be The Pool Party opposite Graceland and I always look forward to returning to Marlowe's for that great BBQ Elvis Experience. Several shows will be recorded for future album releases and on my return I will be finishing work on two Presley Project Albums I've been working on these past couple of years. At last... I hear my good friend Anthony Carabine shout out lol. work is ongoing for putting out another original album of work in the new year. Details asap.

2025 marks the 30th Anniversary of 'Colin Paul and The Persuaders' and many celebratory shows are planned but it also marks the departure of my good friend and original Bass player Martin Davies. Martin has decided to leave the band and try something new. We fully understand his decision and we support and back him all the way. The good news is Martin will play out our 30th Anniversary shows before he sets a date to leave and we look forward to celebrating with many of you. Our first anniversary show is at The Festival Inn' Trowell Notts on Saturday 1st February. We have worked for Promotors Sandy and Phil Rice since the beginning. They gave us our big break you could say all kicking off at thier famous Skeggy weekender and the rest is history as they say. We have a show previous to that on Sunday 26th January but that show is already SOLD OUT @ The Cavern. So if you wanna celebrate with us at The Festival please contact Scott and Tracy Rice on Facebook or call Sandy and Phil on 07854-824616 for all details of this exciting show. Other anniversary shows will be in Leeds' Taunton' Liverpool and Manchester amongst others. All details when available.

2025 gig guide added.

The Fury Connection 03 May 2024

Hi everyone' Limited places are still available for our next Billy Fury Event in Liverpool this July. Early this year our show at The Cavern in Liverpool Sold Out and many people were left disappointed' within weeks of Tickets being available for The Cavern for next January 2025 once again Tickets are now Sold Out.

'IN SUMMER' we are appearing at The Liner Hotel in Billy's home town of Liverpool and a full weekend of great entertainment is ready for you in conjunction with www.yesterdayoncemore.co.uk please click on this link for all details and online booking form.

As well as Billy appearing via a BIG screen along with some of his contempories provided by our very own Nutty Brothers... DJ's Neil Williams and Andy Cordwell' we have live on stage Rockin' Pagan who went down a storm last time. a really funny guy with great stage presence and a voice to match.

Speaking of stage presence we have Rock n Roll band 'Rockin' em'. These guys will rock ya socks off. Colin has worked with these lads many times on some great Elvis shows [more about that in a separate post coming soon]They know how to rock with the best and they are just that at what they do' from great standards of Rock n Roll to Rockabilly and what's more they write a lot of their own songs too.

On top of that Colin Paul and The Persuaders will be on hand to provide you with a heartfelt tribute to Britain's finest Billy Fury and other great rockers from the era not forgetting a special solo tribute to Billy from Colin.

The Liner Hotel is fabulous with great comfortable and clean rooms or cabins as they call them simply because and... 'its in the name.'. it is based on a ship. The Concert room is huge and it looks like your actually on a cruise ship. The food is fabulous. They have a seperate restaurant and Bars too.

The Hotel is right next door to Lime St Station so you don't even have to drive there. Why not arrive in style on the train and walk straight into this fab hotel. If you do book and you are driving they hotel have a large secure car park too.

You can make the weekend more special by visiting the great sites of Liverpool including the afore mentioned Cavern' All the fabulous shops' Bars and restaurants and of course you have to visit the Billy Fury statue on Albert Dock.

Go on treat yourself this summer x

Back To The Future 28 March 2024

2025 is a big year for Colin Paul and The Persuaders ! It's our 30th Anniversary. Our Very first gig was at The PCM Club in Sale' Cheshire on 12th August 1995. [See Pics on Right]

It's very surreal to think where the hell have those years gone. The Big news is we are currently working on our 30th Anniversary Tour. It's The Colin Paul and The Persuaders Back To The Future Tour and we can't wait to be appearing at some special shows in Manchester' Nottingham' Birmingham' Bristol and many more places. As soon as the gigs are finalised they will be posted here. We have just got back from our Billy Fury Weekend in Blackpool and it was fantastic. We look forward to once again being back there in November' See Flyer on our Blackpool Billy Fury page.

Before then you can catch another great weekend in honour of Billy in his hometown of Liverpool at The Liner Hotel. Go to out Yesterday Once More page to book on line. We have some great entertainment lined up as always. See Flyer for details or go to www.yesterdayoncemore,co,uk Speaking of Billy Fury we can confirm that our Billy Fury event at The Cavern in Liverpool next January is Sold Out.

Colin will be back in Memphis this August and is going to Record several shows for future releases. We can confirm that Colin will be recording his show at 'The Days Inn at Graceland' Pool party on Aug 13th at his 50's Themed Meet The Brits Show. Also Colin's show at Marlowe's on the 14th. 2 more shows are due to be recorded one special show will be revealed after the event !!! and a special show in Nashville on August 5th. A total of 4 shows in all.

Are you on Apple Music ? Go to our listen page for Details and Samples of Albums. Don't forget we have a jukebox on there too so you can listen to some selected full songs from our catalogue.

Live from Memphis 17 March 2024

After Recording at Sun Studio a while back it was inevitable that Colin should record a live album in Memphis. Well everything is in place and he is delighted to confirm for Elvis Week 2024 That he will be doing just that. As well as Elvis songs Colin be performing songs by other Memphis legends and some of his original songs too. Hope you can join the party. Venue’ Date and Time will be announced very soon ! Also Dates announced soon for Marlowe's and other shows. We can confirm The Days Inn at Graceland Pool Party will once again be on August 13th.

From Memphis to Liverpool 3rd February 2024

We would like to thank everyone who came along to The Cavern on Sunday 28th January to celebrate the music of Liverpool's own Billy Fury. Billy passed away 41 years ago t but with 220 fans in that room it really was like he’s never been gone. The love for Billy just shone like the sun all afternoon. Jeff’ Martin’ John’ Paul and I are overwhelmed. Thank you all so much for being there and to see so many friends and family was amazing. For all those that couldn't make it we hope you can join us next year as we are happy to say we have been rebooked to play The Cavern on Sunday 26th January 2025. SEE LINK BELOW

The Show Was Filmed and Recorded and will be released asap. In the meantime lookout for a few teasers on YouTube [Checkout the video on the right]

More news very soon - Watch This Space x

Here is the link to book Tickets:

https://www.cavernclub.com/.../billy-fury-tribute-2025/

Yesterday Once More 01934-733958

LOVE 'N' FURY 16th January 2024

Once again our Billy Fury Tribute at the world famous Cavern in Liverpool this month has Sold Out. We played it for the first time last year for the 40th anniversary of his passing and it sold out instantly. It was such a success that they asked us to do it again and within weeks sold out again. Billy Never played the cavern so it's nice to be able to bring his music to the heart of the city. I'm sure we will be returning next January and I will post details here asap. If you could not get a ticket and you feel you are missing out' why not book a place at our upcoming Fury weekend in Blackpool or if you prefer Liverpool then we have another full weekend dedicated to Billy at The Liner Hotel, right next door to The Empire Theatre where Billy played several times' also next door to Lime Street Train Station' so if you don't want to drive you can catch the train straight to the hotel.

HAPPY HOLLADAYS 15th January 2024

Last week in Memphis it was great to meetup again with Mary and Ginger - The Holladay Sisters. I worked with them a few years back for Elvis Week at Hemsby. I have added a page all about my involvement and friendship with the girls and of course their involvement with Elvis. please check it out.

HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS 14th January 2024

While in Memphis at Graceland' I got to do something that many fans are unable to do. I was invited to walk through the Jungle Room [The Den] into the lounge and walk right through to The Music Room where I had my photo taken. As you can imagine I was asked not to take photos but an official EPE [Graceland] Photographer would be on hand to take some pics. Here is one [Left]of the photos that was taken on the morning of Saturday 6th January 2024. This was at 7am and you can see I had to put plastic wrappings on my shoes to protect the carpet. It really was such a thrill seeing the side of the house that I had never seen before. I remember thinking once I was in the music room by the piano that it looked smaller than I imagined and I was walking as slow as I could to try and take everything in. It all seems very distant now but something that will always stay with me. I wanted to share it here first before posting on social media.

FOLLOW THAT DREAM 12th January 2024

Upon returning from Memphis today I received the awful news that our dear friend and acclaimed author Trevor Simpson had passed away just a few hours earlier. . I first met Trevor ten years ago at an Elvis event. You know that feeling when you meet someone and you feel that you have known them all your life. It was also the start of a great working relationship too. We worked together on many great Elvis events the last being September 30th last year in conjunction with the radio station he worked for’ Calderdale Radio. Yes he was a great DJ too and his knowledge of music, not just Elvis was second to none. His weekly radio show was listened to by people all over the world. Always an interesting programme and again brought many listeners and fans together. Of course knowing Trevor, Elvis would always feature in some way.

Trevor introduced me through his programme to Tamar Springer , daughter of famous songwriter Philip Springer. Tamar was working on a documentary about her father and we met in Memphis through Trevor, where she interviewed me for the documentary. Filmed several appearances and featured myself and The Persuaders in the American Doc’ all thanks to Trevor.

Trevor was a huge football fan and became a fine and well respected referee, at one point even showing the great Paul (Gazza) Gascoigne off the pitch. Trevor met and knew many celebrities throughout his life but will be best known in the Elvis world for his books for the FTD [Follow That Dream] label and Elvis Presley Enterprises. He wrote several books and every one a best seller. The best of British series’ His Songs of Praise series and much much more. Each one delivered with great knowledge as you would expect, bringing us some fantastic info regarding Elvis and his life and music never known before. Every time I visited Memphis I would go into the stores at Graceland and take photos of his books and send them to him. He was thrilled. I’d say look pal only 15 left. Only 4 here mate. Last week I did the same, only this time they were all gone. My heart kinda skipped by knowing how poorly Trevor was but at the same time thinking well pal you even sell-out at Graceland too.

I last spoke with Trevor on Jan 2 the day before I left and said I would get round to see him on my immediate return, also I would write his name on the Graceland wall and send him the pics. He was thrilled. I called him while I was away and spoke with Denise who informed me he had deteriorated and was sleeping. I sent her the pics and she thanked me and said they will cheer him up. I have spoken with Denise and he loved them. Trevor also wrote for several Elvis magazines. His articles in the Essential Elvis magazine really were Essential reading. He continued writing for many great publications all over the world and more recently the flaming star fan club mag for his friend and Elvis book writer Pal Granlund. Trevor had the most amazing collection of Elvis demos and often played me some great Elvis songs by other artistes whenever I would visit him and Denise.

Trevor recently compiled a collection of demos recorded by PJ Proby and released them on an album on Bear Family Records. We were sat together talking and said the only problem was he couldn’t think of a title for the album. I suggested PJ Proby Presley Style ? He loved it and put it to Jim Proby. He loved it too. We are awaiting news on another release from Bear Family Records that Trevor was thrilled to be working on. Trevor and Denise also introduced us to Freddie and The Dreamers original Guitarist’ The late Derek Quinn and his lovely wife Jackie. We met at a Gospel show Trevor had booked me for in his hometown of Ripponden and as they say the rest is history.

As mentioned Trevor was a great DJ and often joined our mutual friend John Kavanagh on his Elvis Memories Radio show. With his vast knowledge of Everything Elvis’ every show was a joy to listen to creating special memories for us all. Trevor was also a big part of the Elvis Event Blackpool Rocks with our good buddy Phil Shakespeare , again presenting a unique show on Elvis connections. Even up until recently Trevor was working on Blackpool Rocks 2024. So impressed with last year, Trevor was going to be invited to Elvis Week at Hemsby to continue to spread the word of his vast Elvis knowledge. Trevor was one of the strongest men I ever met and I have to say having spoken with Denise she too is a strong person and knows how much Trevor is loved and Like Elvis touched so many lives.

Jeff' Martin' Paul' John' Sarahlea and I send our sincere heartfelt love and condolences to Denise, their Daughters Kathryn and Heather and all the family and everyone who knew and loved Trevor. Rest in Peace dear friend. You will live on through your family and friends not forgetting your many fans who loved and respected you as a great person. Your legacy will continue to TCB. Until we meet again God Bless You, We are all better off by you following your dream. RIP DEAR FRIEND. xxxx

TO LEARN MORE ON TREVOR' SEE VIDEO ON THE RIGHT !

HAPPY NEW YEAR 1st January 2024

Colin, Jeff, Martin, John and Paul would like to wish you and your families a very Happy 2024 xxxxx

THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT 20th December 2023

Hi' The Christmas Spirit was definitely in the building last week when it was time to perform my 'WONDERFUL WORLD OF CHRISTMAS SHOW' at St Martins Church in Sale Manchester UK. I'm very pleased to say as always it was SOLD OUT and such a great night of Elvis Christmas and Gospel Songs and a few festive hits by others. Well if you missed it or were there and want to relive it all again' well you can right here. CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO WATCH IT. Next years show will be held once again at St Martins Church on the 12th December. COLIN PAUL'S CHRISTMAS SHOW

Also checkout my brand new Christmas song... CHRISTMAS MAGIC. Written by Geoff Taggart and Toni West. There is a great fun video that goes with it and it will take you straight back to your childhood. Its been a big hit these past few weeks with lots of plays on the Radio world wide and at many Rock n Roll events up and down the UK. IT'S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS....ENJOY. CHRISTMAS MAGIC - COLIN PAUL

HOME FOR CHRISTMAS 18th December 2023

Hello everyone and hope your all ready for Christmas by now. It's certainly been a hectic few months and I'm now chilling with the family on my Christmas break. update on Jeff. He would like to thank you all for your kind words during the tough time he has had with his health these past few months, Although not back to feeling 100% just yet he is certainly feeling much better and appreciates you all reaching out and wishing him well. As previously mentioned Jeff has been getting out and about with his partner Karen and has turned up at several gigs recently. He said it has done him the world of good and cant wait to get back playing again. We have missed you Jeff and cant wait either.

The Persuaders Next Gig is at Hampton Road Caravan Park in Blackpool on Friday 26th January followed by our SOLD OUT Show at The Cavern on Sunday 28th January. SEE EVENTS PAGE FOR ALL GIG UPDATES AND DETAILS.

I have had some great gigs also these past few weeks namely our Billy Fury wkd in Blackpool and BTH School for It's Only Rock 'n' Roll Club' Both with The Persuaders. Also my Solo Gigs at The Kings Ransom in Sale [3 MORE GIGS HAVE BEEN ADDED TO NEXT YEARS EVENTS PAGE AT THE RANSOM] It's a great atmosphere and the food is amazing. Also some great Christmas gigs at The Festival Inn' Nottingham'' The Savoy Hotel' Skegness and last night Sunday 17th in Kettering at The Rockin' Lounge with Top Rock 'n' Roll Band Rockin' em. We played a two set Elvis Rock 'n' Roll show and it was FAB. Plans are in place to do this again, so more Details when we have them. Rockin' em are a great family band and it's an absolute pleasure to work with them.

SEASON'S GREETINGS 14th December 2023

Hello and I guess by now your all feeling the spirit of Christmas. We have Had a great run of gigs recently and a lot of them sold out too. Unfortunately our Lead Guitarist Jeff took ill and has had to take several months out of the band. The good news is he is on the mend and hopes to be back with us at the end of January. Jeff Thanks everyone who sent him get well messages and calls. They did him the world of good and is very much appreciated. Our ex guitarist Jeff Morgan kindly stepped in and helped us out and was an absolute God send' especially on our Billy Fury weekend. Speaking of Billy Fury....Bookings are now open for our weekends in March and July [See The Billy Fury Blackpool Weekend and Yesterday Once More Pages for details]

I would personally like to thank the many friends who have supported me either solo or with the band this year. it's never taken for granted and we love you all. Our Gig Guide is fully up to date and is almost full.

Coming Soon a Special Announcement regarding Colin Paul and The Persuaders and 2025.

On behalf of myself Colin Paul' Jeff Weston' Martin Davies' John Wallwork' Paul Wilkinson and Jeff Morgan We would like to wish you and your Families MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A VERY HAPPY HEALTHY AND PROSPEROUS 2024 xxxxxx

Double Trouble 22nd October 2023

Our apologies for the delay in catching up. It's been such a busy time since returning from The States then straight back to work with The Persuaders at The Twinwood festival in Bedfordshire as previously mentioned, Then we headed off to Skegness for the Skeggy Rock n Roll Society in their new home. We shared the stage for the evening with Rock Back The Clock and again it was a great gig. We look forward to returning in April next year. See gig guide and poster on The Persuaders page. Colin and The Persuaders have been booked to play hotels in Torquay and Bournemouth next year. Again See gig guide and Persuaders page for details and posters.

Colin Recently returned from Randers in Denmark where he appeared at an Elvis weekend with a difference. The Memphis mansion is a replica of Graceland and is such an mazing place. first off as you walk through the doors' to the right, it's an American Diner. To the left its the best Elvis gift shop your ever gonna see. The basement is a huge Elvis museum and the biggest outside of Graceland itself. the top floor is a concert room/Restaurant/Bar where Colin performed two shows in the company of many Elvis fans and associates/friends of Elvis....Sam Thompson [Bodyguard] Charles Stone [Col' Parkers right hand man and tour manager. Judy Palmer [Friend and author] and Keith and Marsha Alverson [Photographers and Authors of 2 Elvis books] The Mansion is owned by Colin's good friend and world renowned Elvis Fan Henrik Knudson. It's a huge place and also has a replica of the house Elvis was born in plus a Johnny Cash Museum. The good news is Colin has been asked to return next year and perform and impromptu show with Elvis' Keyboard player and friend Glen D Hardin. Colin said He cant wait. This is gonne be special. Colin said Wanna come with me ? Then checkout the 2024 gig guide and look out for promo poster very soon. From Denmark it was straight to The Puente Real Hotel' Playermar, Torremolinos, Spain to play at Yesterday Once more's 7 Nights to Rock Week followed by The Rockin' Sixties Week. Again Always a pleasure to share the stage with some great acts including a special show with Rockin'Em. Colin will be once again teaming up with this great band on Sunday 17th December at The Rockin' Lounge in Kettering. Show Starts at 4.30 See Poster for details. Our Billy Fury weekend at The Savoy in Blackpool this November is now SOLD OUT as is The Billy Fury Tribute Show at The Cavern on 28th January 2024. Bookings are now being taken for our March and July Fury weekends.

Letter to EPE - Elvis Presley Enterprises 28th August 2023

Below is a letter Colin Paul Wrote to EPE and has decided to make it Public here and on Facebook. The post on Facebook has had many comments supporting how Colin feels since a lot of changes have taken place at Graceland. Colin feels someone needs to make a stance and make it known how we the fans feel with all the changes and crazy prices being charged. He says....Changes need to made quickly before they drive everyone away and kill the golden goose so to speak, I am all for change and EPE also done a lot of good, But many fans are not happy and to subsidise a lot of price changes they have to step up to the mark and make it worthwhile. Please read on to understand what is going on here and hopefully support.

AN OPEN LETTER TO EPE. read more>>>

Dear EPE,

On reflection, after returning from Memphis, I’m thinking back to a couple of weeks ago when I posted a video about the changes at Graceland and the lack of atmosphere during Elvis week. Well it’s non more noticeable than it is right now. The Tent and that incredible feeling of excitement in the air. This is where friendships were made and families through Elvis were born. When EPE ended this along with the closure of the Plaza, it changed everything. I really felt it more so this year as I was sat in the new pavilion (tent) which is shoved right at the back, out of the way, and no publicity whatsoever. What I mean by this is when we were at the original tent, you could hear the music down the boulevard and fans walking along would hear the music and stop by, and forever be hooked. We were all able to visit the bars and the restaurants, as well as the many of the affordable gift shops, we would even go in there to cool down lol. Yeah it was hot and sticky but we didn’t care, the cool beers and the electric atmosphere took care of that. Now with the pavilion (tent) shoved at the back away from everything and everyone, it’s just not the same, and for some reason was really noticeable this year. I’ve known event organiser Danny McCorkle since 2001 along with his lovely wife Layna and event partners John and Laurie who work the hardest during Elvis Week and it really is appreciated by us all. Danny has the most amazing voice and has been in charge of The Tent Entertainment since 1990 for EPE

These days he doesn’t even get a mention on the schedule yet Danny is the one responsible for great friendships made back then. Just walking up the street in the direction of the music and discovering a world I knew nothing about was simply mind blowing.

Don’t get me wrong you ‘EPE’ have done a tremendous job with The New Elvis Presley’s Memphis Complex. The museums are fantastic and believe me you need a good two days to get round them all. (A 3 day pass would be a good idea too)The jumpsuit display just takes my breath away and the attention to detail is everything and absolutely fantastic in all the displays. The events and guests you invited for Elvis week were fabulous. Great to see Lee Majors and Linda Thompson, I would love to see Billy Smith and others close to Elvis as a guests too. But outside of the complex it’s a little less fan friendly and the lack of that old spirit is very noticeable and missed. I know nothing stays the same and everything changes with time. We have met and continue to meet the most amazing people and fans of Elvis in his home town of Memphis. At the moment there lots of fans and friends staying away because of the many changes or simply can’t afford it anymore and while the world is a crazy place I can understand why some of the changes have and continue to happen.

So what would I do?

For a start I would change the aeroplane store into Elvis Radio as it’s practically in the same place as it was before. The speakers would be once again on the outside, blasting out Elvis music onto EP boulevard, and again hangout with the great DJs that we never see anymore. I would add Picnic tables and sun shades to the left of the building over looking the splendour of Graceland. A couple of coffee/drink bars and a perhaps a diner. Now that would bring a little of it back as I know the fans used to love just sitting there talking and listening to Elvis while admiring the most famous house in the world. The second thing I would do is make sure that all the merchandise in the paid museum stores were also available in the free to enter stores if you know what I mean. Because believe me at the moment you are losing lots of money. For me personally I’m talking about the cd’s/dvd’s/Blu-ray’s/ FTD’s etc. I would also employ nice friendly staff who mean it when they say have a nice day and not the ones I encountered several times who obviously hate working there. Thirdly… Go visit The ABBA Show in London and see what they have done. That show is a winner and it’s as if ABBA were in the building and not a hologram in sight. A permanent show like that for Elvis in Memphis would certainly be a crowd puller and a winner every time. Fourthly…. The Guesthouse Hotel, I would make that fan friendly, where are all the Elvis pics etc? well there aren’t any. C’mon it’s the guesthouse at Graceland, Elvis can’t be there to welcome the fans personally so let his image do that for you, oh and bring your prices down. $500 a night during Elvis week. Really? Again the hotel is beautiful and amazing so make it inviting like Graceland is, except we can’t stay there lol. Outside the hotel and Graceland I would repair/replace the side walks. They are a disgrace and a danger to people. Many disabled fans are unable to make the short trip from the hotel or surrounding area to the graveside for morning walk up, even in a wheel chair or mobility scooter as they would simply fall down the many pot holes along the way, I would also clean up the gates and stop the graffiti on them as well as the historic landmark post. On vigil night don’t rush the fans off the property as was very obvious this year but I think that was down to the police wanting the road open. Oh How things have changed. Finally I would invest in the vast amount of unreleased Elvis footage out there for generations to come and we all know it exists, much of it in bootleg form. Cmon EPE you say you want to protect Elvis image then get working on a deal with the film companies and get it out there instead of deals with companies releasing Ducks etc with Elvis’s head on ? I do know EPE have a 10 year plan announced just this week so I wish them well and say let’s hope some of these are part of that plan. It would be great to have the tent in a more accessible location and the gift shops back on the boulevard where they belong as I truly believe it’s where the magic happens. Sincerely Colin Paul.

Ps I look forward to returning in January.

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