Interview looks back: the Hound-Dog days of summer - anniversary of Elvis Presley's death - Brief Article

Chances are you already know that this month marks the 25th anniversary of Elvis Presley's death. In clubs across the country, you might hear a spiced-up version of "Hound Dog" or the first-ever Graceland-approved remix of an Elvis song (A Little Less Conversation") by Dutch DJ JXL. If films are more your jam, entertain your inner child with Disney's summer release Lilo & Stitch, about an Elvis-impersonating animated alien. And, if you're the travelling type, drive down to Memphis, where Graceland commemorates its former occupant's passing with a nine-day celebration of all things Kingly.

Meanwhile, through August 16 at New York's Howard Greenberg Gallery, there's "Where is Elvis? (The Man and his Reflection)." The collection of around 70 photographs perpetuates the Elvis myth and, at the same time, reminds us of the personal, intrinsic Elvis. From private moments to public triumphs, "Where is Elvis?" captures them all. See Elvis kissing his mom, joining the army and making movies, as well as Elvis impersonators and odd obsessions.

Maybe it's the passing of time, maybe it's about time, but Elvis Presley (wherever he is) is changing his image. There's more history, more influence, more sentiment in the air than ever. August 16 not only marks the 25th anniversary of Elvis' death but also his transformation--from kitsch to classic, crass to cultivated.

COPYRIGHT 2002 Brant Publications, Inc.
COPYRIGHT 2002 Gale Group