Lincoln man appears as Elvis in tribute concert at Old Walnut

Nineteen months ago, Joseph Hall of Lincoln went to a Halloween party as Elvis Presley.

That appearance led to local bookings as an Elvis entertainer in Lincoln.

Eventually, Hall found himself in Memphis, Tenn., finishing as one of the top 10 finalists in the first-ever Elvis tribute artist contest by Elvis Presley Enterprises Inc.

"There were hundreds and thousands of competitors from all over the world," he said.

On Thursday night, Hall played before a smaller venue, giving a concert to a sold-out crowd at the Old Walnut Auditorium as a benefit for Special Olympics.

It was probably a safe bet that many people in the crowd had their VCRs or DVRs set to record the television show, "America's Got Talent," where there was a chance Hall also would be performing Thursday night.

Hall himself was recording the show, because even he does not know the episodes when he's scheduled to appear. Asked how he fared in the national competition, Hall said he must keep that a secret.

"Keep watching," he advised.

The benefit performance at Old Walnut was booked months in advance of Hall's appearance on "America's Got Talent," which made his concert in Grand Island that much sweeter for everyone.

Although the concert did not start until 7 p.m., many people came to the auditorium nearly two hours ahead of time to watch Hall set up the lights, sound system and special effects for his performance.

Hall, who looks very much like a young Elvis even without his makeup, got enthusiastic applause just for singing a few bars of music to test the sound system.

When it was apparent that his set-up work was about finished, people started coming down to the stage to get Hall's autograph, shake his hand, receive a hug and perhaps have a photograph snapped with him standing at their side.

That interlude was interrupted, though, to give Hall a chance to step backstage to apply his makeup and to give a quick pre-show interview.

But audience members were promised Hall would be available for more autographs after the show.

During the interview, Hall traced his rapid 19-month trajectory that landed him on network television. He also made it clear he does not consider himself a Elvis impersonator.

"I'm a tribute artist," said Hall, who said that while he may look and sound like Elvis Presley when he performs, he also puts a little bit of himself into his concerts.

He is equally clear about who he is when he signs autographs.

"I will never, ever sign my name as Elvis Presley," said the singer, who noted he always signs autographs with his real name, Joseph Hall.

Hall said he is not trying be replace Elvis, but to "keep his memory alive."

Hall said his appearances on "America's Got Talent" have taken his recognition as an Elvis tribute artist to a new and higher level, giving him a national platform to showcase his talents.

As for all the attention he garnered from fans before his show at Old Walnut, Hall said he hopes it means that "you touch people in a way."