New Delhi, May 5 (IANS) The music of rock'n'roll legend Elvis Presley still spells magic even 31 years after his death. Award-winning American artist Stephen Kabakos will pay a tribute to Elvis for the first time in India in a live concert here Wednesday.

The tribute by Kabakos, one of the most popular Elvis look-alikes, will be held at the Radisson Hotel.

Liquor giant United Spirits Limited is sponsoring the show.

The nine-city concert, planned to celebrate 125 years of the company's premium brand Black Dog whiskey, will travel to Kolkata, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Mysore, Bangalore, Goa, Pune and Mumbai, said a press comminuque issued here in the capital.

Elvis Presley, born Jan 8, 1935, was known for hits like 'Heartbreak Hotel', 'Jail House rock' and 'All Shook Up'. The musician, who became a cult figure because of his charismatic ways, glitzy stage shows and good looks, died of drug abuse in 1977.

Bearing an uncanny resemblance to Elvis, Kabakos has mastered the art of gyrations, sound, mannerisms and the brand of rock'n'roll music that the legend belted on stage. The performer even dresses like Elvis in the trademark jackets, ruffles, pin-stripe blazers and drainpipe (narrow and fitting) trousers.

Kabakos covers the entire career of the rock musician right from his early recordings at the Sun Studio, his career in the army, the 1968 comeback and the explosive concert years in his repertoire, 'The Way It Was' .

The musician, who is visiting India for the first time, is excited. 'This is my maiden visit to India and I am looking forward to reliving the magic of the king of the modern rock'n'roll, Elvis Presley, with thousands of Indian fans. India is a great country,' Kabakos said. The musician loves Elvis and gets 'goosebumps each time he recreates the legend on stage'.

The executive vice-president (marketing) of USL Amrit Thomas said the concert was an effort to reposition the brand among the younger audience. 'We are trying to cash in on the timelessness of Elvis Presley's music by reaching out to those with mature taste in music,' he said.

This is the first American tribute concert in India. Tribute music, a new genre of live shows dedicated to big names in western music, is popular in the west.

Posted:  7th. May 2008