The Prime Minister has left the building

Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi's dream came true today when he and President Bush toured Graceland:

You're a pretty good Elvis singer," the president said, in an obvious prompt to his guest. Bush knew what was coming, having previously experienced Koizumi's tendency to burst into song when it comes to the late rock 'n' roll legend who is the Japanese leader's undisputed musical hero.

Koizumi quickly complied. "Love me tender," he sang. "Wise men say, `Only fools rush in.' "

Enter the special tour guides for the two leaders' private tour of Graceland: Presley's only child and heir, Lisa Marie, and her mother, Priscilla. "I want you, I love you," remarked Koizumi, spouting more Elvis tunes. Draping his arm around Lisa Marie, he went on. "Hold me close, hold me tight," the prime minister crooned.

The above photo shows the Prime Minister playing air guitar in the Jungle Room while everyone gazes at him incredulously.

After the tour, he was overheard saying, "Thank you...thank you very much."