Graceland embraces Elvis impersonators

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) — Finally welcomed by Graceland after all these years, Elvis Presley impersonators need to keep one basic rule in mind — respect the King.

Managers of Presley’s home plan to anoint their first-ever official Elvis “tribute artist” this week, as they mark the 30th anniversary of his death there. But they don’t want tacky, they don’t want kitschy and they don’t want a ridiculous spoof.

Contest judges will be looking for sincerity and respect — even if it’s accompanied by karate moves, black pompadours and rhinestone jumpsuits.

“It’s all about paying tribute to the life and legacy of Elvis,” said Paul Jankowski, marketing chief for Elvis Presley Enterprises Inc., the company that operates Graceland and its sprawling tourist complex.

The “Ultimate Elvis” contest has been under way since March with a series of qualifying rounds around the world. Twenty-four contestants made it to Memphis, but 14 were eliminated Sunday in the final qualifying round.

The winner will be chosen Friday at the end of a week of events to commemorate Presley’s Aug. 16, 1977 death (a candlelight vigil in his honor started Wednesday night). The “Ultimate Elvis” gets $5,000 in cash, a $5,000 shopping spree at Graceland tourist shops, a $3,000 gift certificate toward the purchase of an Elvis-inspired jumpsuit, a one-of-a-kind “Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist” championship belt and other prizes.

The tribute artist contest marks a big change for Graceland, which has long regarded Elvis impersonators with a mixture of resigned bemusement and outright disgust.