Provident Music Distribution and RCA,
through a special offering exclusive to the Christian retail and gift
markets, are making available an unparalleled collection of Elvis’ best
inspirational and gospel works. The project, Elvis Presley: The Gospel
Series, will ultimately consist of five discs for a total of over fifty-six
irreplaceable rare recordings performed by Elvis during his history-making
career. The first two releases in this landmark series, entitled Nearer My
God to Thee and He Is My Everything, will be available at Christian
retailers, gift and specialty markets nationwide beginning March 13, 2001.
“Long-time fans of rock ‘n’ roll legend Elvis Presley know that the artist
had a deep love for his Gospel music roots,” reflects Don Noes, sr. vice
president of Provident Music Distribution. “However, few realize just how
long-standing and powerful the connection is. In fact, despite Elvis’
unparalleled success as a mainstream star, the only coveted GRAMMY( awards
he ever received were for his gospel recordings and live performances.”
“This is an exciting opportunity for Christian music fans and fans of Elvis
to experience the important gospel works of the undisputable king of
rock’n’roll,” continues Noes. “Elvis’s distinguished career was marked by
the award winning songs heard in this never before offered series.”
“We are excited to have the opportunity to bring the power of Elvis
Presley’s gospel music into the Christian market through Provident,”
explained RCA Records senior vice president Mike Omansky. “This series will
help us reach a new and wider audience, for an artist whose sales continue
to increase year by year. The titles bring out the essence of Elvis and his
love for gospel music, and will surely connect with the hearts of
consumers.”
Over the span of his career, Elvis recorded well over eighty gospel songs,
many of which have long gone unheard even by the most dedicated collectors
of Elvis music. Both the Nearer My God to Thee and He Is My Everything
discs will contain fourteen songs, including such Gospel and Inspirational
classics as “Amazing Grace,” “How Great Thou Art,” “In the Garden,” and “The
Lord’s Prayer,” performed in the unmistakable vocal style of a true music
legend.
Provident Music Distribution will be supporting Elvis Presley: The Gospel
Series through national advertising, radio giveaways, Elvis “Blue Suede”
counter displays, and a variety of Internet promotions and contests. The
presentation of Nearer My God to Thee and He Is My Everything to retailers
will begin the week of Elvis’s 66th birthday, which is Jan. 8. The next
release in the series is slated for late June and a Christmas release is
slated for late September.
