World's First Training Video for Elvis Impersonators Released on DVD

Sing Like the King, the world's first and only training video for Elvis impersonators, has been released on DVD. Yes, you read that right. There is now a how-to video for the aspiring Elvis that lives inside all of us.

The unique how-to video is designed to help performers (Elvis impersonators) improve their vocals and sound more like the King of Rock, with lessons on vibrato, vocal range, mastering the Elvis accent ala "thankyouvurymuch", signature dance moves and gestures, as well as hair, make-up and costume tips. No word on if there is a section on the famous Elvis snurl.

Doug Church, winner of the 1991 Elvis impersonator world championships contest, hosts Sing Like the King. Known throughout the Elvis industry by the moniker 'The Voice of Elvis,' Mr. Church is a 20-year veteran and has served as voice coach for dozens of aspiring Elvis impersonators. Church has future plans to establish an Elvis University for up-and-coming imitators of the King. I assume those who graduate with the highest grade point average will earn the distinction of being "Mama Oh Lordy."

Elvis impersonator festivals are held world wide. Much like the Miss America and Miss Universe pageants, there are various competitions that lead to earning a spot at the coveted Elvis Impersonator's World Championship.

As with any other profession, you need to study and practice and learn about your career choice. Being an Elvis impersonator is no different. Hence the reason the DVD was created.

Sing Like the King: The Professional's Guide to Impersonating Elvis is produced by Blue Suede Films and director John Paget. Paget previously directed the award-winning documentary Almost Elvis, a feature-length expose' on the competitive world of Elvis impersonators.

It is estimated that there are currently 35,000 Elvis impersonators working worldwide, up from about 200 at the time of Elvis' death in 1977. This number can of course increase or decrease based on the unemployment rate in Las Vegas.

In the world of Elvis impersonators, just as in the world of any professional sport, finding one who has all the talents of Elvis can be difficult. Some have the voice and not the moves; others have the moves but not the voice. Sing Like the King aims to help the struggling Elvis impersonator better his craft, and thus do justice to the memory of the king.

Sing Like the King is geared for the Elvis impersonator professional, but also offers something for the non-Elivs impersonator. The DVD touts proven vocal techniques to help any aspiring singer.

And if nothing else, you can always make the pilgrimage to Graceland in August for Elvis Week and see more Elvi than you ever bargained for.