The Auction at Graceland•January 8, 2020
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/8/2020
“Suspicious Minds” and “Moody Blue” were written by Mark James. Elvis recorded his version of “Moody Blue” in February 1976 in the Jungle Room of Graceland—one year later it it reached number 1 on the Billboard charts and would be Elvis’ last number one hit. Elvis performed the song live only once: in Charlotte, North Carolina in February 1977. The single of the song was released by RCA on November 29, 1976 with “She Thinks I Still Care” on side B. The song was included on the album of the same name that was released by RCA on July 19, 1977. At the time, colored vinyl was wildly popular so RCA released the first quarter million pressings in blue vinyl rather than black. The record was pressed at RCA’s Indianapolis plant, and when they reached the milestone pressing of 2 billion records they held a celebration, part of which saw them press a very small run of additional color vinyls in green, red, white and yellow which were given to executives and VIPs. Elvis was also given a plaque since it was his recording that helped the plant surpass the 2 billion mark. Offered is one of the green vinyl test pressings for the “Moody Blue” single. This special pressing was made by Ernie Ruggeri, VP of manufacturing for RCA, who would have been responsible for the test pressings of this ilk. The record measures 7 inches (18.78 cm) in diameter and is accompanied by a letter of authenticity from Graceland Authenticated.
The record presents with no discernible defects. Near Mint condition.