Friday, October 25, 2013

October 25 - A Country Biography

Elvis Presley fans had hope that Ginger Alden, Elvis Presley's fiancee and last love finally, would tell here story one day. That day arrived, Publisher Berkley announced the release of her autobiography on August 5, 2014.

From the publisher:
“Elvis, you and I know the truth and unfortunately you’re not here to set the record straight. With this book, I will try to...” 

Elvis Presley and Graceland were fixtures in the life of Ginger Alden, having been born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee. But she had no idea that she would play a part in that enduring legacy—as Elvis Presley’s fiancĂ©e, and his last great love. For over three decades Ginger has held the truth of their relationship close to her heart. Now she shares her unique story, and while a lot has been written about the King, the Elvis we meet in this long-anticipated memoir is a revelation.

In her own words Ginger details their whirlwind romance—from first kiss to his stunning proposal of marriage. She details his exploration of Eastern religions, his perception of being a “legend,” his devotion to family and friends, and her attempt to know the insular group surrounding Elvis. And for the very first time she talks about the devastating end of it all, and the 50,000 mourners and reporters who descended on Graceland in 1977, exposing Ginger to the reality of living in the spotlight of a short, yet immortal, life.

Above it all, Alden rescues Elvis from the hearsay, rumors, and tabloid speculations of his final year by shedding a frank yet personal light on a very public legend. From a unique and intimate perspective, she reveals the man—complicated, romantic, fallible, and human—behind the enduring myth, a superstar worshipped by millions, and loved by Ginger Alden.

Country Chart

Billboard published an overview of the artist that made it to the Top 10 of Billboard's Country Album chart in the nearly 50-year history of this chart. Wilie Nelson tops the chart while Elvis Presley - not a 100% Country artist - is listed at #9. The acts with the most Top 10's since Top Country Albums premiered the week of Jan. 11, 1964:

46 -- Willie Nelson
41 -- Dolly Parton
40 -- Merle Haggard
39 -- Loretta Lynn
37 -- George Strait
33 -- Johnny Cash
33 -- Conway Twitty
32 -- George Jones
31 -- Elvis Presley
31 -- Hank Williams Jr.

(Source: Billboard / FECC / Elvis Information Network)