Caden Gamblin named Elvis Rocks Mesquite 2018 grand champion
By Tara Trovato
Elvis fans of all ages made their way to Mesquite this past weekend and were “all shook up” as the former heartthrob was brought back to life at the ninth annual Elvis Rocks Mesquite contest. This year’s grand champion was Caden Gamblin from Tucson. The 18-year-old, who also won the ’60s era division, won the crowd over with his impressive vocals, hip-thrusting dance moves, and uncanny appearance to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll himself. Fans cheered and gave a standing ovation as Gamblin put on a show to remember.
More than 20 of the best Elvis tribute artists across America competed for the crown and $10,000 in total cash prizes. Performers fully immersed themselves in the competition with their rhinestone-studded jumpsuits, chops, and of course Elvis’ iconic dance moves. Competition was incredibly fierce across all three eras — the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s — and featured a diverse age range among entertainers including DJ, a 73-year-old great grandmother, and the world’s oldest Elvis tribute artist, Doc Elvis, who at 83 years old just had back surgery the week prior but wouldn’t let that stop him from missing the annual performance.
Various tribute artists managed to leave their mark on this year’s event, including James King, who came out as champion of the ’50s era and also won second place overall in the finals competition. Another notable winner was Rob Ely, from northern California, who won the ’70s era division and was voted the 2018 fan favorite.
“I got started at a very young age doing Elvis after I saw him on the ’68 Comeback Special,” said King, the ’50s era winner. “I love to perform his music and keep his memory alive.”
The jam-packed weekend also included movies by the pool featuring “Viva Las Vegas” multiple late-night karaoke events, a meet and greet, and a finals afterparty.
“Every year, Elvis Rocks Mesquite brings so much excitement to the CasaBlanca,” said Krissy Ayon, director of entertainment for Mesquite Gaming. “All of the entertainers give it their all on the stage, and this year we were fortunate enough to have celebrity judge Mr. Rich Little along with host Kelly Clinton Holmes, who kept the energy high all weekend long.”
For photos of the 2018 Elvis Rocks Mesquite contest, click here.
For more information about upcoming events, visit casablancaresort.com.
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