Elvis Wall of Fame Unveiling

It is the Parkes Elvis Festival’s honour to induct rock’n’roll legend, Frankie J. Holden, to the Parkes Elvis Festival Wall of Fame in 2025.

Frankie J. Holden OAM, born on December 18, 1952, in Manly, is a name synonymous with Australian Rock ‘n Roll. While many recognise him for his acting accolades and memorable TV characters, it is his enduring musical career that first brought him into the spotlight.

Holden’s journey into music began in 1975 with legendary rock group Ol’ 55. Their debut album, Take It Greasy (1976) anchored by hits like On the Prowl and Looking for an Echo, peaked at No. 3 on the Australian Kent Music Report Albums Chart, eventually achieving triple platinum status and staying in the Top 50 charts for 39 weeks.

The band’s high-energy performances and infectious sound reinvigorated Australia’s music scene, providing a throwback to the Rock ‘n’ Roll era while bringing something fresh to the table. Frankie J. Holden, with his charismatic stage presence and rich vocals, became the face of the group helping to propel Ol’ 55 to iconic status.

Even as Ol’ 55’s lineup changed and the band eventually disbanded, Holden’s passion for music never waned. Over the decades, he has continued to perform, both as a solo artist and as part of various ensembles, most commonly with his long-term colleague and Ol’55 saxophonist, Wilbur Wilde.

Holden’s contributions to music have not gone unnoticed. In 2016, he was awarded the Order of Australia Medal (OAM), recognising his contributions to Australian culture through music, television, and community engagement. This honor highlights the breadth of his influence and his dedication to the arts and beyond.

While Frankie J. Holden is a celebrated musician, his versatility as an entertainer extends to an extraordinary acting career. He has brought to life some of Australian TV’s most memorable characters in hit series like Police Rescue, Round the Twist, Underbelly, and A Place to Call Home. He has over 30 films to his name, including a standout role in High Tide, where he played an Elvis tribute artist—a fitting nod to his Rock ‘n’ Roll roots.

Even with his acting accolades, including a Silver Logie in 2019, Frankie J.’s heart remains in music. His legacy as a performer continues to inspire new generations of artists and music lovers alike. With his timeless hits still resonating and his live performances exuding the same infectious energy, Holden proves that Rock ‘n’ Roll is a lifelong journey.

As an artist, entertainer, and musician, Frankie J. Holden embodies the spirit of Australian music and storytelling. From the wild success of Ol’ 55 to his unforgettable roles on screen, his career is a testament to talent, versatility, and the unifying power of music.

Parkes Elvis Festival would like to acknowledge Frank J. Holden’s contribution to the Australian music industry by inducting him on the Elvis Wall of Fame on the new Gates of Graceland.

This year will be a significant milestone in the Wall of Fame’s history, with the Wall of Fame plaques being relocated from the wall in Kelly Reserve to the newly built Gates of Graceland at the Parkes Visitor Information Centre.

Parkes Shire Council were successful in applying for a grant through the NSW Government’s Regional Tourism Activation Fund to build the replica Gates of Elvis Presley’s Graceland that would display the plaques and become the new Wall of Fame. In addition, the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist winners will be honoured on the Parkes Elvis Festival Walk of Fame with a Hollywood style star. Located at the Parkes Visitor Information Centre, the Gates of Graceland will be a major tourist attraction, open 365 days a year, free and accessible to all. The Gates of Graceland are officially endorsed by Elvis Presley Enterprises.

The Gates of Gracelands project is proudly sponsored by the NSW Government’s Regional Tourism Activation Fund.

Performers