His Latest Flame, 1961 78 rpm lacquer demo for Elvis

$

54

This is an unusual item: a publisher's demonstration record that was most likely used in the studio to audition a song for Elvis Presley to perform and record. The year was 1961. Elvis often went to a recording studio just to listen to prospective songs performed for him before deciding what to record. This is one of those recordings, a 78 rpm lacquer with the song "His Latest Flame," a Hill & Range song written by Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman that was first recorded by Del Shannon. The singers on these demos varied; many times P.J. Proby did them, but each time, Elvis wanted a singer whose voice approximated his own as closely as possible. This demo was not recorded by Shannon, who had a higher voice. The singer remains unidentified, but it is definitely NOT Elvis. The patented Bo Diddley rhythm of the song is not as pronounced on this version. Condition of the disc is E-, although there is a skip toward the beginning of the vocal. With the right stylus or cleaning, this can probably be played. I have not attempted to do either - I played it once to ensure the recording was not by Elvis and to describe it. The original sleeve has "His Latest Flame" and "2 extras" written on it.

The record comes with 2 copies of a lead sheet used in the studio.

Again, this is a 10-inch 78 rpm single-sided lacquer of "His Latest Flame" by an unknown demo performer, recorded at Associated Recording Studios in New York City.

Grading Chart:

N (78)
As new and unplayed (there are virtually no 78s that can categorically be claimed to be unplayed).

N- (78)
Nearly Mint, but has been played. No visible signs of wear or damage.

E+ (78)
Plays like new, with very, very few signs of handling, such as tiny scuffs from being slipped in and out of jackets.

E (78
Still very shiny, near new looking, with no visible signs of wear, but a few inaudible scuffs and scratches.

E- (78)
Still shiny but without the lustre of a new record, few light scratches.

V+ (78)
Is an average condition 78 in which scuffs and general use has dulled the finish somewhat. Wear is moderate but playing is generally free from distortion. Surface noise not overly pronounced.

V (78)
Moderate, even wear throughout, but still very playable. Surface noise and scratches audible but not intrusive.

V- (78)
Quite playable still, but distortion and heavy greying in loud passages. Music remains loud in most passages. Surface noise and scratches well below music level.

G+ (78)
Grey throughout but still serviceable. Music begins to sound muffled. Heavy scratches.

G (78)
Quite seriously worn and scratched, but music level is still higher than surface noise.

G- (78)
Music still prominent, but wear and scratch damage extensive.

F (78)
Most of music remains audible over surface noise, but listening now uncomfortable.

P (78)
Unplayable.