Southern Focus
Close-Up of a Would-Be King
The art of being Elvis
Photo: Amanda Greene
Whatever you do, don’t call them impersonators. The Elvis “tribute artists” who compete at the annual Big E Festival—this year’s takes place August 2 through 4 in Clayton, Georgia—don’t just slap on some sideburns and crank out a karaoke version of “Heartbreak Hotel.” Instead they put their hearts and hips into wowing the judges in five categories: vocals, appearance, authentic movements, connection with the audience, and stage presence and professionalism. The Danielsville, Georgia, photographer Amanda Greene captured this image of would-be-King Robert Lutz last year, her second time photographing the event, which is the brainchild of the Georgia artist (and Elvis museum owner) Joni Mabe. “They’re serious about it,” Greene says. “They’re not trying to be ironic. And I don’t want people to think I’m making fun of them—I truly find them visually delightful.”
Related Stories:
g&g reads
Watch the author’s conversation at the G&G offices
Arts & Culture
For almost fifty years, they carried the bags of golf legends but also masterminded victories from the tees to the holes. Then, with one decision, their lives shifted, and the legacy of their glory days went unheralded. Finally, that’s changing
Arts & Culture
Kate T. Parker’s latest collection of intimate portraits—spanning dancers, activists, soccer players, and classmates—reminds girls everywhere just what they are capable of
Trending Stories:
Arts & Culture
For almost fifty years, they carried the bags of golf legends but also masterminded victories from the tees to the holes. Then, with one decision, their lives shifted, and the legacy of their glory days went unheralded. Finally, that’s changing
Food & Drink
Step aside New York and Chicago: Biloxi, Mississippi, has a secret pizza ingredient that’s ready for the spotlight
Arts & Culture
Decades later, those dainty florals still hold a powerful grip on the South