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pixie · Site Admin Joined: 16 Jun 2007 Posts: 1791

Fans may be gearing up to celebrate the 30th anniversary of his death in the coming week but the King is still making a mint.

Elvis' record sales have passed 1bnWhile thousands of Elvis accolytes descend on Graceland in Memphis for the anniversary on August 16, Presley's record sales have passed the billion mark.

Organisers from Elvis Presley Enterprises expect between 50,000 and 70,000 to make the pilgrimage to his home as part of "The Summer of Elvis".

"We're gearing up for the best Elvis Week we've ever had," spokesman Todd Morgan said.

Events include an Elvis Expo featuring sold-out appearances by members of Presley's TCB Band and former wife, Priscilla Presley.

There are tours of the King's birthplace in Tupelo, Mississippi, including the shop where his mother bought Elvis his first guitar.

And the main event is an overnight candlelit vigil hosted by George Klein - a close friend of Mr Presley.

Peanut Butter & Banana Creme CupsIn addition, last month, a life-sized bronze sculpture was unveiled in Honolulu to commemorate his 1973 Aloha from Hawaii concert.

In Elvis' honour, chocolate company Hershey has launched Reese's Peanut Butter & Banana Creme Cups encouraging buyers to "Live Like The King".

A limited-edition run of Elvis-themed Harley-Davidson motorcycles are on sale as is a robotic singing bust of Presley circa 1968.

Twenty four of his films are being reissued this year.

And, in case fans still want more, former popstar Marie Osmond, who knew Presley, is selling a limited-edition Elvis doll clutching a microphone and sporting his familiar American-eagle-themed jumpsuit.

http://news.sky.com/skynews/article/0,,30200-1279539,00.html