On August 1, RCA Records and Legacy Recordings, the catalog division of Sony Music Entertainment, have unveiled Sunset Boulevard—an extraordinary 5-CD collection that offers an in-depth exploration of Elvis Presley’s pivotal recording sessions from the 1970s. With over 89 tracks, more than half of which have never before been released in the United States, Sunset Boulevard is a treasure trove for both long-time fans and newcomers, offering an illuminating perspective on the final chapter of the King’s recording career.
The comprehensive box set is a definitive guide to Elvis’ work during his golden era of introspection and artistic maturation. Sunset Boulevard features alternate studio versions of late-period classics such as “Separate Ways,” a track often regarded as the most autobiographical song Elvis ever recorded, and “T-R-O-U-B-L-E,” which harkens back to the signature vocal style that made Presley a legend. But it’s the inclusion of “Burning Love” that truly underscores the collection’s significance—this track marked Elvis’ 40th and final Top Ten hit, solidifying his continued relevance in a rapidly changing music landscape.
Another unforgettable highlight is Elvis’ rendition of “Always on My Mind,” one of his most emotionally powerful performances of the 1970s. While Willie Nelson would later popularize the song, Presley’s version—originally written by Wayne Carson, Johnny Christopher, and Mark James—brings out the raw emotional depth and vulnerability that defined his late career. The track offers a tender glimpse into Presley’s personal life, reflecting his often-turbulent relationship with fame, love, and loss.The first two discs of Sunset Boulevard feature newly crafted mixes by four-time GRAMMY Award winner Matt Ross-Spang. Ross-Spang, known for his work with legends such as Margo Price and Jason Isbell, strips away the overdubs to reveal the raw, unvarnished power of Presley’s voice. These mixes offer a fresh perspective on seventeen of Presley’s classic tracks, including Kris Kristofferson’s “For The Good Times,” Paul Williams’ “Where Do I Go From Here,” Billy Swan’s “I Can Help,” and Don McLean’s “And I Love You So.” These tracks come to life in a way never heard before, offering fans an intimate listening experience that highlights Presley’s unparalleled vocal range.
Additionally, the second disc includes seventeen unreleased studio outtakes, providing an unfiltered look at Presley’s creative process. These alternate versions capture the evolution of songs from the initial spark of inspiration to their final, polished forms. They also underscore Presley’s ability to shape the material to fit his own voice, even in the later stages of his career.
The final three discs of Sunset Boulevard provide an intimate behind-the-scenes glimpse of Elvis Presley’s historic Las Vegas residency. Recorded in 1970 and 1974, these unreleased rehearsal sessions with his legendary TCB Band reveal a more personal side of the King. Presley, with his unmatched charisma and passion for performance, channels his energy and emotion directly into his bandmates, creating a palpable sense of chemistry. These rehearsals showcase Presley’s deep connection with The TCB Band, a camaraderie that transcended the studio and permeated the stage.
Unlike many of his earlier sessions, Presley chose to record with his road band during this period, giving these tracks an authentic, unfiltered quality that contrasts with the more polished productions of his earlier years. The result is a raw, exhilarating snapshot of an artist at the height of his powers, pouring his heart into every note.To commemorate the release of Sunset Boulevard and honor what would have been Elvis Presley’s 90th birthday, Sony Music will host a special listening event during Elvis Week 2025 at Graceland’s Guest House Theater. Set for Wednesday, August 13, this event will feature a Q\&A session with special guests, offering an exclusive opportunity to delve deeper into the making of this groundbreaking collection. For more information on the event, visit Graceland’s official site.
Available now in 5-CD and digital formats, Sunset Boulevard is a definitive collection that will appeal to both hardcore Elvis fans and collectors alike. The box set comes with rare archival photographs and new liner notes by music historian Colin Escott, as well as an introduction by Elvis’ longtime friend Jerry Schilling. For those seeking a more curated experience, the set is also available as a 2-LP ‘highlights’ edition, which offers a selection of standout tracks and outtakes, and is available in a Graceland-exclusive color variant.For more information and to listen to Sunset Boulevard in full, head over to Elvis’ official site.
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