Where were you 40 years ago? I was traveling through Nova Scotia with my family. We were ending the trip around the Cabot Trail when the news came on the radio -- Elvis Presley had died. Everyone in the car knew of him from one or more parts of his musical career. While I wasn't an avid fan like a good friend and an aunt, I did enjoy his music and some of the movies. Much of what I enjoyed would be more from his earlier career than his later career. It was strange to see how the world reacted to this news. People still make the pilgrimage to Graceland -- and I used that word since it seems to be a spiritual trip for many. There were many years when Elvis sightings seemed all too common. Conspiracy theories abound. Elvis impersonators have become common place, not only in Las Vegas. Velvet paintings of Elvis became de rigeur for collectors. All of these cultural aspects of remembrance have also been subject to great derision. So, while he may have become somewhat cartoonish in the way his personage remains ever-present, he did have an incredible recording career. That should be remembered.
A song that speaks to much of the man and the myth was written by two Canadian songwriters -- Christopher Ward and David Tyson. It was recorded by a Canadian singer. The beat is infectious and the lyrics speak well to the phenomenon that was Elvis Presley. Enjoy!
Black Velvet -- Alannah Myles
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