Conversations with Jake Slater

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jake Slater. 

Hi Jake, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I was an Elvis fan since 6 years old. My interest in Elvis began when my Grandparents acquired the internet. While listening to an online 1950s music channel, the sounds of “You’re So Square (Baby I Don’t Care)” echoed through the speakers. The artist’s name accompanying the song title was that of Elvis Presley. The light bulb lit up and the gene of Rock n’ Roll was switched on. I started slicking my hair back and dancing alone in my room, trying to recreate his moves. I always thought I’d be a farmer because I worked on a dairy farm as a kid and a horse ranch doing trail rides as a young teen. I never thought I’d be entertaining for a living. Christmas 2007 was the first time anyone saw me perform besides my parents in their living room. A brief show for family and neighbors was the debut of the idea to tribute to the King of Rock n’ Roll. One person attending the Christmas party, a very good friend and neighbor Jean Ann Gordon, was the one to later get me my very first show – the summer of 2008. This was the beginning of me performing for the public. It was a sold-out show and a big confidence boost. A week to the day after that first show the phone rang and on the other end was someone wanting to book a show on the opposite side of the state. Since then, the phones haven’t stopped ringing, and the shows continue. 

I am now a National and International award-winning Elvis Tribute Artist that has performed all over Michigan, across the country, and as well as Canada. I have performed for audiences of all sizes, sold-out shows, and for many wonderful causes. Elvis tribute competitions were another layer of expansion in my career, the first being the Saginaw Kingfest, where I won the Early Years segment of the contest in 2009. 

In 2011 I competed again and won the entire competition, receiving the title of King of Saginaw! I have the distinction of being the only King of Saginaw who has won both the Early Years and Concert Years portions of the competition as well as winning the overall title. In April 2013, I was awarded 2nd place in the Branson Elvis Festival for the second time. I performed four sold-out shows at the Bay City State Theatre, with two of those sellouts in the same year, 2013, and received an official congratulation certificate letter noting the sellouts. No other performer has accomplished this at the State Theatre. 

I was one of twenty-six qualifying tribute artists from around the world at the 2011 competition in Memphis. In April 2013, and was awarded 2nd place in the Branson Elvis Festival for the second time. 

I then competed and won the title of King of Saginaw again in 2014. I am the only Elvis Tribute Artist to win this title twice, and I remain the “reigning King of Saginaw.” 

Nowadays, I like to stay in Michigan and be near my family and friends. My favorite shows to perform are Nursing homes. The older generation holds a special place in my heart, and there’s nothing quite like seeing the smile and joy I bring to those people. I’m not much of a competitive person, and while I have great memories competing in festivals and other competitions, my passion rests in the crowds that are there for the memories, and their smiles and hugs bring me an even greater reward. 

When I’m not performing and have downtime, I work at Coyote Bill’s Ranch, tending to horses and taking people out on trail rides. I love spending time with my girlfriend, her kids and going on spontaneous adventures. 

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s been an amazing journey. I’ve met so many wonderful people and traveled all over. My family has been my biggest support system and are always here for me. My biggest struggle was during Covid. For 2 years, shows came to a screeching hault, people were getting sick, and my father passed away October 2020. He was my rock – with me every step of the way and still is. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
“Keeping The Memory Alive LLC” Is my business name, and I try to do that. I do my best to capture the voice, moves, style, facts, and complete aura of Elvis, and bring back memories for those who lived in the time of Elvis’ career and make new memories for younger generations. I’m most proud of remaining true to myself. I don’t use spray tan or wigs, no smoke, and mirrors. I’m just Jake. 

Pricing:

• 1-hour show – $550
• 90-minute show (two outfit changes) – $650
• 2-hour show (3 outfit changes) – $750

Contact Info:

• Website: www.etajakeslater.com
• Instagram: @etajakeslater
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/etajakeslater

Image Credits
Katie Fairchild
Eva Brand
tennesean newspaper