This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/17/2021
The offered archive of 25 5 x 7 inch 35 mm prints were given by Elvis Presley to his close friend Sonny West. The photos are of Elvis' legendary January 14, 1973, "Aloha From Hawaii" concert in Honolulu's H.I.C. arena, as well as from his November 18, 1972 concerts in the same stadium. Based on the accompanying letter from Steve Kelley, a representative of the Sonny West Elvis Collection, a photographer was hired by Elvis to shoot the shows. The letter reads:
Elvis Presley contracted a photographer to take photos of the Aloha from Hawaii Satellite concert, in Hawaii in January of 1973. The photographer took some sample shots from the Elvis concert that was performed at the same venue in November of 1972. Most of the photos from that show were shot in black and white. After the "Aloha from Hawaii" show was completed and his group returned how, Elvis gave a copy of the photos to a few members of his group. These are the photos that were given to Sonny West, a Memphis Mafia member and his Chief of Security.
The photos were taken from a close proximity to the stage, based on the composition and clarity, and they were all processed by "Osaka Color" in Japan in 1973, except or 5 of the November 1972 shots, which were processed in 1972. The 6 shots from November 18, 1972 capture Elvis on stage for the 2:30 PM show (wearing his "Black Conquistador" jumpsuit) and the 8:30 PM show (wearing his "Aztec Star" jumpsuit). The "Aloha" shots are all from the final show on January 14, 1973, and capture Elvis at the absolute peak of his performing powers. A wonderful collection of photos of Elvis' most famous concert that came from Elvis himself. The photos all measure 5 x 7 inches and present with only remnants of scrapbook adhesive lines on the back. None have sustained damage. Near Mint condition overall.