Feature act makes history and will have fans 'All Shook Up'

Taylor Rodriguez will take top billing in 2021 for the 29th annual Parkes Elvis Festival, held from January 6 to January 10.

He will have fans speeding their way to Parkes for four high-energy concerts celebrating the music of Elvis Presley at the Parkes Leagues Club all to the theme of Elvis' 1968 movie Speedway.

Mr Rodriguez was named as the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Champion by Elvis Presley Enterprises (EPE) in Memphis in August 2019.

The competition is held worldwide to look for the best representation of the legacy of Elvis Presley.

The 21-year-old hails from Lynchburg, Virginia, USA and fell in love with Elvis' music at the age of six listening to 'Blue Suede Shoes' and started performing at nine.

He was one of the top five tribute artists at the age of 19 and then went on to be crowned the 2019 Tupelo Elvis Festival Champion before taking out the top spot at Memphis.

He said he was looking forward to his first trip down under.

"I am beyond excited to attend Parkes Elvis Festival," he said.

"This will be my first time to Australia and I can't wait to celebrate the life, legacy, and music of Elvis Presley.

"Let's get ready to Rock 'n' Roll Australia!", he said.

Parkes Elvis Festival Director, Cathy Treasure, said Mr Rodriguez will perform four shows at the festival backed by a dynamic eight-piece Elvis band.

"We are so excited to be able to host Taylor's first ever shows on Australian soil," she said.

"His incredible showmanship and youthful energy will create a dynamic feature concert series that is not to be missed."

In addition to the Feature Concert series, Mr Rodriguez will appear in the Northparkes Mines Street Parade, Gospel Service and Renewal of Vows Ceremony.

Tickets for the Feature Concert Series will be on sale following the 2021 program launch on Monday, September 7, 2020.

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