OK, Ladies (and Gentlemen!) Get ready…Elvis is coming to town! Join us on Nov 12 at 6:00pm for Michael Dean and Memphis! This show, benefitting the Alabama Veterans Museum in honor of Veterans Day, will be held at the Limestone County Senior Center at 912 W. Pryor Street in Athens.
Michael Dean started out at a young age singing back-up harmony for his family’s gospel group. At a party in 1989, someone mentioned he sounded like Elvis; so he had a few cheap suits made, won a few contests, and as they say, the rest is history. Michael considers himself a tribute artist instead of an impersonator; he feels Elvis is truly one of a kind, and pays tribute to “The King” with every show. Unlike other tribute artists, Michael Dean does not lip sync the words to prerecorded sound tracks. Michael Dean and Memphis put on a live performance every time. One must pay attention to all aspects of the show, including the detailed elaborate costumes, the movements, and of course his voice to truly appreciate the show. Michael has played in Branson as well as performed with Percy Sledge, The Platters, The Stamps Quartet and many other great entertainers.
What started out as Michael’s wife Gayle and one other singer providing backup for his “Tribute to Elvis” show in 1998, has now turned into a full back-up group. In addition to Gayle Dean Root, the group includes Michele Bradford, Van Stisher and Doug “J.D.” Moss, all on vocals. Dennis Thrasher is the Sound Technician and Ricky Bartlett does the lighting. A night with Memphis can include Gayle Dean performing hits from stars such as Patsy Cline, Connie Francis or Brenda Lee, while Michele’s taste leans towards Reba McEntire and Martina McBride. Van brings classic country with hits from Linda Ronstadt, Loretta Lynn and Tanya Tucker. The bass singer in the group, J.D., brings tunes from Jim Reeves and Brooks Benton, while Michael performs hits from The Rolling Stones, Bob Seger, Jimmy Buffet, Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis and Mickey Gilley. With such a wide variety of talent, they can provide a concert style show or a more laid back atmosphere for dances and special events.
Elvis Aaron Presley, who was born on January 8, 1935, went from a small-town boy in Tupelo, MS to a music legend whose impact has carried on long after his death. Elvis was also a veteran. He was drafted on January 8, 1957 and went to Ft. Hood for Basic Training; there he was assigned to the 2nd Armored Division’s “Hell on Wheels” unit. Later, Elvis was assigned to the 3rd Armored “Spearhead” Division and stationed in Germany. Elvis was promoted to E-5 in 1960 and after finishing his assignment in Germany in March of that year, he was honorably discharged from active duty on March 5, 1960. Elvis was afraid that his time in the military would have a negative effect on his music career, but as we all know, he need not have worried because he is still the “King of Rock & Roll!”
Contact the Veterans Museum at 256-771-7578 for tickets which are $15.00 in advance or $20.00 at the door! Tickets are limited, get yours today!
By: Sandra Thompson, Director, Alabama Veteran’s Museum
