Graceland Embraces Elvis Impersonators

They Will Now Be Called "Tribute Artists"

MEMPHIS, Aug. 15, 2007 | by Caitlin A. Johnson

(AP)  Things are a little different this year at Graceland, as the managers of Elvis Presley's estate get ready to name what they're calling a "tribute artist."

Thursday marks the 30th anniversary of Presley's death, and the Elvis Week tributes are already under way.

After years of resistance to Elvis impersonators, managers of Presley's home in Memphis this year are holding an Elvis competition. Karate moves, big hair and rhinestone jumpsuits are all OK, but nothing tacky. The judges say they're looking for sincerity and respect.

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The Graceland Elvis impersonator winner will be crowned Friday. The winner gets, among other things, $5,000 in cash, a $5,000 shopping spree at the Graceland shops and the "Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist" championship belt.

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