Elvis talks about Priscilla, Lisa & the divorce (on stage)

[ksimms2]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pgx1ZVtyA5I&NR=1

Once again, sorry if this is a repeat, first time I've heard it.....

[elvisia]

ksimms2, It`s from the Fort Baxter dubble cd..."Desert storm"
He talks a LOT about everything on this cd.....a must have for every fan I think.

[franny]

What song was Elvis referring to in the beginning of this clip?
Thanks, for sharing Kelly! (y)

franny

[presley31]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pgx1ZVtyA5I&NR=1

Once again, sorry if this is a repeat, first time I've heard it.....

thanks kelly for sharing.

[presley31]

What song was Elvis referring to in the beginning of this clip?
Thanks, for sharing Kelly! (y)

franny

l'm pretty sure it was YOU GAME A MOUNTAIN

[franny]

Thanks, Jen! (y)

This was in 1974, wasn't it? Wasn't Linda Thompson, Elvis' girlfriend at the time? :hmm:

franny

[presley31]

Thanks, Jen! (y)

This was in 1974, wasn't it? Wasn't Linda Thompson, Elvis' girlfriend at the time? :hmm:

franny

shelia ryan was his girlfriend there. She was sitting with priscilla this very night that elvis talked about divorce and mike stone. Not sure where linda was at the time:hmm:

[elvisia]

Jen, your right....it was "You gave me a mountain", this is the version from that day...before the speach.....

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=3tGoVHbG4Qg

[GirlHappy19]

Comfusing-------wasn't Elvis Dating Linda Then?i Do Have The Cd And Yes He Talks Alot About Everything.first He Said Prescilla Gave Him A White Rolls Royce-------then He Said It Was A Stuzt.humm

[elvisia]

GirlHappy19, Elvis dated a lot of woman...on and off, but Linda was sometimes on and sometimes off when he dated other woman..including Sheila who was with him on this show....he even introduces her next to Pricilla.

And the Rolls royce was the one given to him by Prisilla, while the Stuzt was given to Pricilla by him......anyway, thats the way I understand it, but he makes a little fun out of it......Pricilla likes the stud/stuzt, mixing it with Mike Stone.

[GirlHappy19]

Wow I Got It.you See I Am An Elvis Fan,but It Was Not Until A Year Or Less Ago That I Started Joining The Clubs.thank You For Clearing This Up For Me.
Have A Great Week End.

Girlhappy19

[TC_of_EAP]

Jen, your right....it was "You gave me a mountain", this is the version from that day...before the speach.....

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=3tGoVHbG4Qg

Oh GOD !!! Why make me CRY http://img144.imageshack.us/img144/108/ansmileycryingturquoisetn6.gif now ??? Each time I listen to the 'Desertstorm' version I get BIG goose bumps all over followed by sooo many tears............ http://img144.imageshack.us/img144/1153/ansmileybiggercryingdblfq4.gif http://img144.imageshack.us/img144/1153/ansmileybiggercryingdblfq4.gif http://img144.imageshack.us/img144/1153/ansmileybiggercryingdblfq4.gif I'm a too sensitive kind o' gal...

[Rover]

Thanks for sharing :)
How could he joke while talking about something like that...

[cameron]

I thought this was great !! Got a big kick out of him . Love hearing EP joke and cut up.
Liked it when he got mad too. :lol: It was way past time to take up for himself.

Just think what he could say today . I'd just sit back and tell him "to go for it ." (y)

[Diane]

And applaud him the whole way Cameron! (y)


Diane

[Merry]

Oh GOD !!! Why make me CRY http://img144.imageshack.us/img144/108/ansmileycryingturquoisetn6.gif now ??? Each time I listen to the 'Desertstorm' version I get BIG goose bumps all over followed by sooo many tears............ http://img144.imageshack.us/img144/1153/ansmileybiggercryingdblfq4.gif http://img144.imageshack.us/img144/1153/ansmileybiggercryingdblfq4.gif http://img144.imageshack.us/img144/1153/ansmileybiggercryingdblfq4.gif I'm a too sensitive kind o' gal...


Hello TC,

Welcome. Nothing wrong with being sensitive and loving. II would presume Elvis may have liked the fact, that you care so deeply, and think so deeply.

Take care,


Kimmi

[Broussey]

Hes just awsome :)

[jak]

That night was an absolute pathetic tragedy.I dont know how anybody can find something positive about it.Elvis wasnt venting.Elvis was spiraling out of control.If there were ever evidence of the "rose colored glasses" theory this is proof.Sorry to be a downer,but I wish that recording never would have surfaced.I have the Baxter release from the original pressing I purchased when it first was available back in the 80's..My personal pair of rose colored glasses got a big crack in them after playing that cd.I felt sick.
Jak

[Rover]

If there were ever evidence of the "rose colored glasses" theory this is proof.Sorry to be a downer,but I wish that recording never would have surfaced.I have the Baxter release from the original pressing I purchased when it first was available back in the 80's..My personal pair of rose colored glasses got a big crack in them after playing that cd.I felt sick.
Jak

Sorry, I've never heard of this "glasses theory", could you please explain what it is? :)

[Tony Trout]

That night was an absolute pathetic tragedy.I dont know how anybody can find something positive about it.Elvis wasnt venting.Elvis was spiraling out of control.If there were ever evidence of the "rose colored glasses" theory this is proof.Sorry to be a downer,but I wish that recording never would have surfaced.I have the Baxter release from the original pressing I purchased when it first was available back in the 80's..My personal pair of rose colored glasses got a big crack in them after playing that cd.I felt sick.
Jak

I've gotta agree, Jak...this is emabarassing to listen to...especially the "drugs dialogue".....

[EDOEP]

ksimms2, It`s from the Fort Baxter dubble cd..."Desert storm"
He talks a LOT about everything on this cd.....a must have for every fan I think.

other identical or similar releases of this show are on the bootleg 'drug story', released by the label EPL (elvis presley live), EPL 017-2, and the recently published 'time to dare' released by 'MxF records'.

i agree - a must-have for everyone, though it always provokes highly controversial discussions among fans reg. elvis' intentions for his monologues and public statements.

hugs, ellie

addendum: ... and IF or IF NOT he had thrown in 1 pill or maybe 2 that evening ....:'(

[cameron]

Everyone is entitled to their opinion on this.
Personally, I've gotten really angry and fed up with some people myself.
I've lost it and had a few expletives to say...especially when accused of something I didn't do or say.
Sometimes you just have had enough and the anger rises to the top and you have to have your say. It's called ; being human.
I'm glad he exploded ..he should have done it more often. (y)

http://www.elvisconcertmyths.com/Welcome.html

[Erhan]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3tGoVHbG4Qg

[jak]

Everyone is entitled to their opinion on this.
Personally, I've gotten really angry and fed up with some people myself.
I've lost it and had a few expletives to say...especially when accused of something I didn't do or say.
Sometimes you just have had enough and the anger rises to the top and you have to have your say. It's called ; being human.
I'm glad he exploded ..he should have done it more often. (y)

Im sorry but this has to be the most misguided post I have ever seen on this board.You actually are proud of him that night?That's just wrong.Elvis was in horrible shape that night.He made many peope very uncomfortable in the audience that night.Im just stunned that anybody who considers themselves an Elvis fan can put a positive spin on that concert.That night was just as bad as Omaha 77 or Baltimore 77.We are entitled to our opinions but that show was a disaster.It's absolutely embarrassing.When Elvis was up there saying he had never been stoned in his entre life I guess a few must have believed him.You all should be sorry for him that night.The comments I have read on this thread tell me more about the posters than Elvis.It's beyond belief.
Jak

[cameron]

http://www.elvisconcertmyths.com/Welcome.html

[King_Creole]

Im sorry but this has to be the most misguided post I have ever seen on this board.You actually are proud of him that night?That's just wrong.Elvis was in horrible shape that night.He made many peope very uncomfortable in the audience that night.Im just stunned that anybody who considers themselves an Elvis fan can put a positive spin on that concert.That night was just as bad as Omaha 77 or Baltimore 77.We are entitled to our opinions but that show was a disaster.It's absolutely embarrassing.When Elvis was up there saying he had never been stoned in his entre life I guess a few must have believed him.You all should be sorry for him that night.The comments I have read on this thread tell me more about the posters than Elvis.It's beyond belief.


Spot on review of this poster's, so-called, "opinion" ...

How anyone can be so mis-informed and naive is beyond comprehension ... :doh: ;)

[KPM]

Im sorry but this has to be the most misguided post I have ever seen on this board.You actually are proud of him that night?That's just wrong.Elvis was in horrible shape that night.He made many peope very uncomfortable in the audience that night.Im just stunned that anybody who considers themselves an Elvis fan can put a positive spin on that concert.That night was just as bad as Omaha 77 or Baltimore 77.We are entitled to our opinions but that show was a disaster.It's absolutely embarrassing.When Elvis was up there saying he had never been stoned in his entre life I guess a few must have believed him.You all should be sorry for him that night.The comments I have read on this thread tell me more about the posters than Elvis.It's beyond belief.
Jak
I can not put a positive spin on this show, but I still do not feel it was nearly as bad as some shows, where he is constantly stuttering and slurring his words and seems to be groping for what he is trying to say. The pictures I have seen of him he looks lucid. I can not say that about a few other shows I have seen pictures and video of.
No one who deals with the public for a living should ever lose their temper and go ballistic in front of the people you are dealing with. But it happens. I said this one of the "numerous times" we have discussed this night-he rarely lost his temper in public. One of the Jordanaires said he saw times where he thought it would have been better for Elvis if he had lost his temper and let it fly- instead of holding it in so much. (I thnk it was Gordon Stoker.) But we all see it how we see it from differing points of reference.

[jak]

I can not put a positive spin on this show, but I still do not feel it was nearly as bad as some shows, where he is constantly stuttering and slurring his words and seems to be groping for what he is trying to say. The pictures I have seen of him he looks lucid. I can not say that about a few other shows I have seen pictures and video of.
No one who deals with the public for a living should ever lose their temper and go ballistic in front of the people you are dealing with. But it happens. I said this one of the "numerous times" we have discussed this night-he rarely lost his temper in public. One of the Jordanaires said he saw times where he thought it would have been better for Elvis if he had lost his temper and let it fly- instead of holding it in so much. (I thnk it was Gordon Stoker.) But we all see it how we see it from differing points of reference.

The sad thing is that this show is not the worst.I wish it was.This show is however one of the first where he couldnt hide his drug problem and the public got to see it.I dont even consider that to be Elvis saying that stuff that evening.He never would have done that if he hadnt had been stoned.What he said was mean spirited and a disgrace.No way he was like that under normal conditions.
Jak

[jak]

http://www.elvisconcertmyths.com/Welcome.html

That guy is a nut.He has done other books I believe also.I think the other book was about how great Elvis was in Omaha and Lincoln for the CBS taping if you can actually believe it.Just because you read something on the net doesnt make it true.Find me some other notable people in the Elvis world who were proud of Elvis that night.Recognize that concert for what it really was.The beginning of the end of the greatest performer ever.
Jak

[franny]

My personal pair of rose colored glasses got a big crack in them after playing that cd. Jak

That made me laugh! :lol:

Elvis was in bad shape, that night! Why does everyone try and cover that fact or make excuses? We can't change what happened! I agree with your previous post! (y)

franny

[KPM]

The sad thing is that this show is not the worst.I wish it was.This show is however one of the first where he couldnt hide his drug problem and the public got to see it.I dont even consider that to be Elvis saying that stuff that evening.He never would have done that if he hadnt had been stoned.What he said was mean spirited and a disgrace.No way he was like that under normal conditions.
Jak
Yes this was not the worst. Could be if he had lost his temper more often(when it really counted) as Stoker pointed out perhaps he would have been more true to himself-thus would not have needed so much escape through medication. I know you can only hide your feelings so long before you have to vent them in one way or another. Some strong individuals may not have this type problem but many are not. It comes out in one way or another unfortunately.

[Tommy]

It was a sad evening all around for everybody there. It's a shame he had gotten to that place in his life.

[jak]

Yes this was not the worst. Could be if he had lost his temper more often(when it really counted) as Stoker pointed out perhaps he would have been more true to himself-thus would not have needed so much escape through medication. I know you can only hide your feelings so long before you have to vent them in one way or another. Some strong individuals may not have this type problem but many are not. It comes out in one way or another unfortunately.

KPM
In my opinion Elvis never should have lost his temper in front of a paying audience.That's not the time nor place for it no matter what.The thing is Elvis was just ranting and lying through his teeth that night.He wasnt being coherent.I think he rambled on that his karate kept him from being stoned and that he had never been stoned in his entire life.Obviously these things were not true.The thing is that Elvis never tried to right himself proffesionaly or personally.When he let his drug problem affect him in public he was to far gone to turn back.I remember being genuinely distrurbed when I listned to that cd way back in the 80's.I am still completely shocked that anybody would actually defend his bizarre tirade that night.That was a guy in need of serious help.That entire year was a roller coaster for Elvis and it quickly went straight downhill.His behaviour had really changed.Just listen to the recordings we have available.
Jak

[jak]

That made me laugh! :lol:

Elvis was in bad shape, that night! Why does everyone try and cover that fact or make excuses? We can't change what happened! I agree with your previous post! (y)

franny

This is what Im saying.How can even the most dedicated fans argue in favor of his behavior that nigh.It's something I feel very strongly about because I can get angry listening to that show.Elvis was far better than that.
Jak

[KPM]

KPM
In my opinion Elvis never should have lost his temper in front of a paying audience.That's not the time nor place for it no matter what.The thing is Elvis was just ranting and lying through his teeth that night.He wasnt being coherent.I think he rambled on that his karate kept him from being stoned and that he had never been stoned in his entire life.Obviously these things were not true.The thing is that Elvis never tried to right himself proffesionaly or personally.When he let his drug problem affect him in public he was to far gone to turn back.I remember being genuinely distrurbed when I listned to that cd way back in the 80's.I am still completely shocked that anybody would actually defend his bizarre tirade that night.That was a guy in need of serious help.That entire year was a roller coaster for Elvis and it quickly went straight downhill.His behaviour had really changed.Just listen to the recordings we have available.
Jak
Perhaps you misunderstand my point-I am not trying to defend what he said or did. But -I am trying to show a little understanding. You see it as a horrid event-so do I. I do not see it as harshly as you but you are correct it was the start of the end.
I have dealt with the public for most of my life going back to my first job-as an Ice Cream truck driver. If I told you I have never lost my temper in front of any customer or client I would be lying. I can recall 2 events where I lost my temper big time. I could give you the details but it would mean nothing-I will just say both times were during personal problems in my life. I was taking it out on someone else-when I was really mad at myself. If it was someone elses fault-it was not me. So my anger was me trying to cope-with me. I hope that makes sense. But as I have said about our differeing opinions on other topics- I don't think we are that far apart.

[cameron]

As I've said. Everyone has their own opinion. I believe it's within the rules that I can state mine without being made fun, being called names or attacked.

There is always more than one side to any story. I just like to look at both .
Thanks for your understanding and compassion, KPM.

[GirlHappy19]

It was a sad evening all around for everybody there. It's a shame he had gotten to that place in his life.

Tommy,your avatar is beautiful.(y)

[Wendy56]

Thanks for the video. Hey, is this true?: "Priscilla talked to elvis was in aug of 1977 and said she wished she had went there, she knew he was not sounding very well"?

[jak]

Perhaps you misunderstand my point-I am not trying to defend what he said or did. But -I am trying to show a little understanding. You see it as a horrid event-so do I. I do not see it as harshly as you but you are correct it was the start of the end.
I have dealt with the public for most of my life going back to my first job-as an Ice Cream truck driver. If I told you I have never lost my temper in front of any customer or client I would be lying. I can recall 2 events where I lost my temper big time. I could give you the details but it would mean nothing-I will just say both times were during personal problems in my life. I was taking it out on someone else-when I was really mad at myself. If it was someone elses fault-it was not me. So my anger was me trying to cope-with me. I hope that makes sense. But as I have said about our differeing opinions on other topics- I don't think we are that far apart.

KPM
I dont see this event as Elvis just losing his temper.For me it represents Elvis at his worse.His tirade is drug induced which is what is so disturbing to me.This is an ugly side of Elvis that most people were fortunate not to see.
Jak

[jak]

[QUOTE=cameron;149751]As I've said. Everyone has their own opinion. I believe it's within the rules that I can state mine without being made fun, being called names or attacked.



When did this happen? In no way did attack you or call anybody names.Look back at my post.I used the term "misguided" post.I do however find the notion that anyone feeling proud of Elvis that night is not capable of discussing this topic for obvious reasons.I never could have imagined that any fan could actually use the word proud in relation to that show.That is truly one of the most shocking comments I have ever read on this board.
Jak

[utmom2008]

shelia ryan was his girlfriend there. She was sitting with priscilla this very night that elvis talked about divorce and mike stone. Not sure where linda was at the time:hmm:
There were a few times when Linda would literally have to take a break from the lifestyle, even though she knew there would be other women while she was gone. Sheila Ryan was one of those, she didn't last too terribly long.
www.youtube.com/utmom2008

[utmom2008]

The sad thing is that this show is not the worst.I wish it was.This show is however one of the first where he couldnt hide his drug problem and the public got to see it.I dont even consider that to be Elvis saying that stuff that evening.He never would have done that if he hadnt had been stoned.What he said was mean spirited and a disgrace.No way he was like that under normal conditions.
Jak
The most amazing thing about this particular tirade is that his speech is not slurred. He sounds very lucid when compared to other things we have seen and heard. And..you are all right----this was not "our" Elvis doing this, this was the drugs talking, loud and clear.
www.youtube.com/utmom2008

[King_Creole]

Sure, Gordan Stoker did say that he had wished Elvis had spoke out more about things, and defended himself, but to the "right" people that deserved to be scolded, not Elvis' own fan base and paying audience !!!

We, as Elvis fans, would already agree with that notion because we love and care for the guy ...

And no, this probably isn't the worst concert he gave, but this was certainly the steep step into Elvis' final stage of declining into his ongoing drug problem and untimely demise.

[utmom2008]

Sure, Gordan Stoker did say that he had wished Elvis had spoke out more about things, and defended himself, but to the "right" people that deserved to be scolded, not Elvis' own fan base and paying audience !!!

We, as Elvis fans, would already agree with that notion because we love and care for the guy ...

And no, this probably isn't the worst concert he gave, but this was certainly the steep step into Elvis' final stage of declining into his ongoing drug problem and untimely demise.
I think we can all agree that the sun was beginning to set by the end of 1974. There were some good shows to come, and his weight would go up and down, but things were never to be quite the same again.

[King_Creole]

I think we can all agree that the sun was beginning to set by the end of 1974.

True, but the tragic signs were already beginning to become evident to those around Elvis as early as 1970, and certainly more fatal in 1973 when Elvis suffered his first "Overdose" and nearly died then ...

[utmom2008]

True, but the tragic signs were already beginning to become evident to those around Elvis as early as 1970, and certainly more fatal in 1973 when Elvis suffered his first "Overdose" and nearly died then ...
True King Creole, but, I saw him (got a kiss and a scarf too!) in the summers of 1971, 1972 and 1973 in Vegas and he was absolutely wonderful. I just think that by 74 the episodes were becoming closer together. Good Lord, we were all SO naive back then about prescription drugs. Another field that Elvis would pioneer. RIP Elvis...............

www.youtube.com/utmom2008

[King_Creole]

True King Creole, but, I saw him (got a kiss and a scarf too!) in the summers of 1971, 1972 and 1973 in Vegas and he was absolutely wonderful.

www.youtube.com/utmom2008

Looks can be decieving ... :blush:

[cameron]

Sure, Gordan Stoker did say that he had wished Elvis had spoke out more about things, and defended himself, but to the "right" people that deserved to be scolded, not Elvis' own fan base and paying audience !!!


Elvis was not talking about or "scolding " his fans there, IMO.
He was "letting off steam" about all the gossip going around --and his own problems in his life.he was human.
There are others that see it the same as I do.

I see him as a man that had put up with far too much in his life, plus being very ill physically.
I didn't see him as 'the image." IMO, he should have spoken up long ago.
It wasn't pretty; but none of us are when we finally have been pushed too far. He should have just walked away from his life as it was.
But, how many were standing in line with their hands out for "more money?"

This is my opinion. He deserved more from everyone around him.
I have no "rose tinted glasses" but neither do I choose to wear "blinders,". I just see a man worn down from life and the people that fed off of him.
IMO, he was locked in a prison of his own making. He would be ****************ed if he did and ****************ed
if he didn't; no matter what he did. To that man, I give my support and empathy.
RIP. Elvis.

[King_Creole]

Elvis was not talking about or "scolding " his fans there, IMO.

Uh, I am aware of that and that's NOT what I said, so please try and comprehened what I write before making erroneous remarks ... please.

Thank You.

[utmom2008]

Looks can be decieving ... :blush:
I'm not referring only to his looks, but also to his demeanor. I saw several shows in 75 and 76..yes, there was a difference by then

[cameron]

Sure, Gordan Stoker did say that he had wished Elvis had spoke out more about things, and defended himself, but to the "right" people that deserved to be scolded, , not Elvis' own fan base and paying audience.[/

Sorry, it appears you're talking about his fans here .:hmm:

[cameron]

I'm not referring only to his looks, but also to his demeanor. I saw several shows in 75 and 76..yes, there was a difference by then

Yes, he looked like a very sick man. No energy nor able to move as he did in the '60's and early '70's. :'( Too sad.

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

This is not Elvis at his best that's for sure, the drugs dialogue is just..... well..... shocking...... that kind of behaviour is just unprofessional, however Elvis wasn't the first or last to have displayed such behaviour in front of the public. Let us be clear though, until this point Elvis by and large had been the consummate professional publicly.

As has been touched on in this post already, this really was the first obvious public steps in a steady and unstoppable decline. What is more shocking is that those close to Elvis had seen this coming for many years! I know people will say that you can't help a man who can't help himself, but come people, someone should of took the bull by the horns and helped Elvis. My betting is that Elvis' flunky's praised this outburst (n)

[presley31]

This is not Elvis at his best that's for sure, the drugs dialogue is just..... well..... shocking...... that kind of behaviour is just unprofessional, however Elvis wasn't the first or last to have displayed such behaviour in front of the public. Let us be clear though, until this point Elvis by and large had been the consummate professional publicly.

As has been touched on in this post already, this really was the first obvious public steps in a steady and unstoppable decline. What is more shocking is that those close to Elvis had seen this coming for many years! I know people will say that you can't help a man who can't help himself, but come people, someone should of took the bull by the horns and helped Elvis. My betting is that Elvis' flunky's praised this outburst (n)

l agree Jumpsuit Junkie. Why didn't someone do something when they saw this coming. I wish someone stepped up and said to elvis enough is enough, maybe he would be here if someone tryed hard enough to save him.

[cameron]

I guess I still don't see what's so "shocking" about him getting mad.
I've seen much worse as parts of some rock musicians shows.
I've used much worse language when I've gotten mad myself.

Elvis was never my "idol" as such. I thought he was a nice man, mostly .
Had problems with some prescription drugs {of which his friends indulged }
and as many do today. Had an outstanding voice , was handsome ..all of the usual. ;) But, I also saw him as a man ;"used" from the time Parker got ahold him as a kid. Several times he tried to "break away" from Parker. Each time Elvis was presented with a "bill for Parkers services."
When you're put in a corner; eventually you fight back.

Why didn't someone help him? Who might that have been?

[utmom2008]

I guess I still don't see what's so "shocking" about him getting mad.
I've seen much worse as parts of some rock musicians shows.
I've used much worse language when I've gotten mad myself.

Elvis was never my "idol" as such. I thought he was a nice man, mostly .
Had problems with some prescription drugs {of which his friends indulged }
and as many do today. Had an outstanding voice , was handsome ..all of the usual. ;) But, I also saw him as a man ;"used" from the time Parker got ahold him as a kid. Several times he tried to "break away" from Parker. Each time Elvis was presented with a "bill for Parkers services."
When you're put in a corner; eventually you fight back.

Why didn't someone help him? Who might that have been?
The reason this was so shocking is because it was totally 100% out of character for him. He wasn't your typical rock musician that you refer to. His shows were always clean and he was always the "southern gentleman." This was a HUGE clue to us that all was not right in the world of EP.

[ksimms2]

I guess I still don't see what's so "shocking" about him getting mad.
I've seen much worse as parts of some rock musicians shows.
I've used much worse language when I've gotten mad myself.

Elvis was never my "idol" as such. I thought he was a nice man, mostly .
Had problems with some prescription drugs {of which his friends indulged }and as many do today. Had an outstanding voice , was handsome ..all of the usual. ;) But, I also saw him as a man ;"used" from the time Parker got ahold him as a kid. Several times he tried to "break away" from Parker. Each time Elvis was presented with a "bill for Parkers services."
When you're put in a corner; eventually you fight back.

Why didn't someone help him? Who might that have been?

I don't see the big deal over this either myself. He didn't sound messed up to me. I do see a pattern where when Elvis drug habit is discussed, you always throw in the whole MM thing with it - blaming them basically. That part I don't agree with. And as for someone helping him - they had approached him in numerous occasions and he would basically blow up at them. I think the real person who should have helped him was his father. He is the only one legally that could have. (I think someone said this in another post too)

[cameron]

........This was a HUGE clue to us that all was not right in the world of EP.

From what I've read ,things hadn't "been right" in Elvis' world for a long time.
As his daughter sings, "No One Noticed ." I don't think any of his fans did.

[cameron]

I don't see the big deal over this either myself. He didn't sound messed up to me. I do see a pattern where when Elvis drug habit is discussed, you always throw in the whole MM thing with it - blaming them basically. That part I don't agree with. And as for someone helping him - they had approached him in numerous occasions and he would basically blow up at them. I think the real person who should have helped him was his father. He is the only one legally that could have. (I think someone said this in another post too)

I bring in the MM because they were there . They admit it.
Lord, I don't blame them. Just saying; they were a part of it.
I think some did try to interfere, he just didn't listen.
Vernon might could have . I'm not even sure about that in '77.
There are ways to stop someone . Most just didn't wanna cross that line. That's not exactly being "a good friend, either ." IMO.

I've "interferred" in some of my childrens lives myself. Did they get mad at me?? You bet!! Did I care, not for a minute.

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

I guess I still don't see what's so "shocking" about him getting mad.
I've seen much worse as parts of some rock musicians shows.
I've used much worse language when I've gotten mad myself

I'm not sure you are understanding the point being made? It's not the fact that Elvis got mad! Its the fact that he did it so publicly and what he said, cast your mind back a comparitively short while back to 1973 when Elvis was at the top of his game during the Aloha show, go back to 1972 at the madison Square Gardens interview where Elvis is quoted as being a "Quiet, Shy, Humble, Country Boy". We are looking at this from the perspective of 30 years later, we know so much about Elvis that just hadn't seen the light of day back then!



Why didn't someone help him? Who might that have been?

Someone with big enough cahoners :P

[cameron]

I still think he was a shy, quiet ,humble country boy.
Country boys get mad too. :lol:

It really doesn't bother me; it's your alls opinion.
I was tickled to see him finally stand up for himself.
I was hoping he'd carry this through with the rest of his life.
:'( Nope, he didn't !! He needed to get mad at a lot of people..including himself . Not to be, I guess.

IMO, his fame happened too fast and he was too gullible to realize what was happening to him. He trusted and believed in the wrong people .
After awhile, some just give up fighting. It appears he did. I think he was ready to leave, in one way or another.

[utmom2008]

From what I've read ,things hadn't "been right" in Elvis' world for a long time.
As his daughter sings, "No One Noticed ." I don't think any of his fans did.
What I am saying is that NOW we have access to what he was saying and doing during those years. Back then we had know way of knowing every little thing he said or every little thing he did, the way we do with celebs now. Can you imagine nowdays what the media coverage would be like??? It would NOT be pretty, and there is a part of me that is glad that Elvis never had to see and/or hear any of it. We all thought that Elvis-What Happened was such a revelation.....

[utmom2008]

I'm not sure you are understanding the point being made? It's not the fact that Elvis got mad! Its the fact that he did it so publicly and what he said, cast your mind back a comparitively short while back to 1973 when Elvis was at the top of his game during the Aloha show, go back to 1972 at the madison Square Gardens interview where Elvis is quoted as being a "Quiet, Shy, Humble, Country Boy". We are looking at this from the perspective of 30 years later, we know so much about Elvis that just hadn't seen the light of day back then!



Someone with big enough cahoners :P

LOL...I agree Jumpsuit Junkie!

[ksimms2]

What I am saying is that NOW we have access to what he was saying and doing during those years. Back then we had know way of knowing every little thing he said or every little thing he did, the way we do with celebs now. Can you imagine nowdays what the media coverage would be like??? It would NOT be pretty, and there is a part of me that is glad that Elvis never had to see and/or hear any of it. We all thought that Elvis-What Happened was such a revelation.....

Yes when I got this book, I was expecting some big harsh, nasty book....it wasn't much of anything really. I had pretty much read the same stuff in "Revelations From The Memphis Mafia" anyhow. But I guess back then, it blew the lid of his private, "drug free" public persona.

[cameron]

What I am saying is that NOW we have access to what he was saying and doing during those years. Back then we had know way of knowing every little thing he said or every little thing he did, the way we do with celebs now. Can you imagine nowdays what the media coverage would be like??? It would NOT be pretty, and there is a part of me that is glad that Elvis never had to see and/or hear any of it. We all thought that Elvis-What Happened was such a revelation.....

Truthfully, I have no desire to know everything anyone says or does.
It's their business. Unless they tell me, I only have someone else telling their point of view anyway.

Yes, I'm glad Elvis didn't live to see and hear all that's been said about him.
I can only hope he's waiting and watching to tell them all what he thinks .;)
I have a feeling he will have the last word...(y)

[KPM]

This is not Elvis at his best that's for sure, the drugs dialogue is just..... well..... shocking...... that kind of behaviour is just unprofessional, however Elvis wasn't the first or last to have displayed such behaviour in front of the public. Let us be clear though, until this point Elvis by and large had been the consummate professional publicly.

As has been touched on in this post already, this really was the first obvious public steps in a steady and unstoppable decline. What is more shocking is that those close to Elvis had seen this coming for many years! I know people will say that you can't help a man who can't help himself, but come people, someone should of took the bull by the horns and helped Elvis. My betting is that Elvis' flunky's praised this outburst (n)

Elvis lost his temper, while under the influence medications, drugs , etc however you want to phrase it-would some people accept it better if he had been totally straight and lost his temper? Is it the temper explosion, or the fact he was medicated more than normal which upsets people the most? We all hate the fact that the medications and drugs got a hold on Elvis-but its a fact they did for whatever reason.
As I pointed out I can not condemn someone for something which happens a thousands of times a day in thousands of workplace situations. People lie and try to shift blame , some truely feel persucuted. Yes its truely unprofessional in any job to lose it, and its not right to be drugged on the job which lends to the explosion-but it happens to humans (before and after Elvis). Some are fired for it, some are given help, and some are not.
The medications obviously sent his explosion further than normal loss of temper but if he had been straight would it be accepted better?
IMO I can definitely hear some of the inner circle telling him after the show
Boy you sure laid it on the line E. You sure told em!

[Diane]

I really think that if the Colonel had not set up that all american boy squeaky clean image that Elvis would have been better off. To me it set the pace that he wasn't allowed to be human and have faults which was highly unfair to him.

Diane

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

What I am saying is that NOW we have access to what he was saying and doing during those years. Back then we had know way of knowing every little thing he said or every little thing he did, the way we do with celebs now. Can you imagine nowdays what the media coverage would be like??? It would NOT be pretty, and there is a part of me that is glad that Elvis never had to see and/or hear any of it. We all thought that Elvis-What Happened was such a revelation.....

Excellent point made

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

Elvis lost his temper, while under the influence medications, drugs , etc however you want to phrase it-would some people accept it better if he had been totally straight and lost his temper? Is it the temper explosion, or the fact he was medicated more than normal which upsets people the most? We all hate the fact that the medications and drugs got a hold on Elvis-but its a fact they did for whatever reason.
As I pointed out I can not condemn someone for something which happens a thousands of times a day in thousands of workplace situations. People lie and try to shift blame , some truely feel persucuted. Yes its truely unprofessional in any job to lose it, and its not right to be drugged on the job which lends to the explosion-but it happens to humans (before and after Elvis). Some are fired for it, some are given help, and some are not.
The medications obviously sent his explosion further than normal loss of temper but if he had been straight would it be accepted better?
IMO I can definitely hear some of the inner circle telling him after the show
Boy you sure laid it on the line E. You sure told em!

Good point, I'm more upset because the medication robbed Elvis of the composure he had previously been able to control. Once barriers have been breached it becomes that little bit more easily done the next time. Elvis never commented on politics, never gave a public view on controversial issues as he was aware of how this could be misinterpreted, yet here he was doing his dirty laundry in public.

Elvis could have been stone cold straight, it still would have meant something was intrinsically wrong if he had resorted to this behaviour out of character.

[KPM]

I really think that if the Colonel had not set up that all american boy squeaky clean image that Elvis would have been better off. To me it set the pace that he wasn't allowed to be human and have faults which was highly unfair to him.

Diane
Agreed.
It also put the pressure of "appearing squeaky clean" squarely on Elvis's back.
Elvis's "fall from grace" was such a towering fall for many-maybe they have never really forgiven him deep inside.

[utmom2008]

Good point, I'm more upset because the medication robbed Elvis of the composure he had previously been able to control. Once barriers have been breached it becomes that little bit more easily done the next time. Elvis never commented on politics, never gave a public view on controversial issues as he was aware of how this could be misinterpreted, yet here he was doing his dirty laundry in public.

Elvis could have been stone cold straight, it still would have meant something was intrinsically wrong if he had resorted to this behaviour out of character.
Great point Jumpsuit! He always maintained composure. Remember at the MSG interview the woman asked his views on war and politics and his reply was "I'm just an entertainer, I'd rather keep my views to myself". He handled all of that with such class. It makes you wonder what was going through Priscilla's mind that night? With Lisa sitting there? And..how did Sheila Ryan feel during "It's Midnight" when he says "listen Cilla"....
www.youtube.com/utmom2008

[utmom2008]

Yes when I got this book, I was expecting some big harsh, nasty book....it wasn't much of anything really. I had pretty much read the same stuff in "Revelations From The Memphis Mafia" anyhow. But I guess back then, it blew the lid of his private, "drug free" public persona.
Yes, back in 1977 it was quite a story. We were shown a side of Elvis that we had not known before. Of course, we kept telling ourselves that it was the ramblings of 3 EX employees, which it was. I mean, has anyone heard much from Dave Hebler since then??? What a joke he was. It's just that the timing of the book was horrible, absolutely horrible. :mad:
www.youtube.com/utmom2008

[ksimms2]

I really think that if the Colonel had not set up that all american boy squeaky clean image that Elvis would have been better off. To me it set the pace that he wasn't allowed to be human and have faults which was highly unfair to him.

Diane

Once again our Diane makes the best sense of us all!! This is so true Diane.... he was made to act like a pure, innocent country boy and that is what was expected of him through his whole career....not allowing for any faults....so sad. :'(

[MissyM]

Elvis had a bad temper. I'm suprised he lasted as long as he did without blowing up on stage!!

[cameron]

Good point, I'm more upset because the medication robbed Elvis of the composure he had previously been able to control.Once barriers have been breached it becomes that little bit more easily done the next time. Elvis never commented on politics, never gave a public view on controversial issues as he was aware of how this could be misinterpreted, yet here he was doing his dirty laundry in public.
Elvis could have been stone cold straight, it still would have meant something was intrinsically wrong if he had resorted to this behaviour out of character.
A point was reached; the stress was great. He blew up. Period .
IMO, it was not "his dirty laundry " but the gossips he went after .
I still applaud him. He should have went after Parker and some of his friends after getting off that stage. Out of character? You mean the image that was thrust on him.
We need to look at all the things going on in this mans life before we ever presume to judge him.

Did Elvis ever do this again?

[King_Creole]

Sorry, it appears you're talking about his fans here .:hmm:

Maybe you should try and comprehend your own tagline, then you'll get the full picture ... :lol:

[Menwithbrokenhearts]

KPM
In my opinion Elvis never should have lost his temper in front of a paying audience.That's not the time nor place for it no matter what.The thing is Elvis was just ranting and lying through his teeth that night.He wasnt being coherent.I think he rambled on that his karate kept him from being stoned and that he had never been stoned in his entire life.Obviously these things were not true.The thing is that Elvis never tried to right himself proffesionaly or personally.When he let his drug problem affect him in public he was to far gone to turn back.I remember being genuinely distrurbed when I listned to that cd way back in the 80's.I am still completely shocked that anybody would actually defend his bizarre tirade that night.That was a guy in need of serious help.That entire year was a roller coaster for Elvis and it quickly went straight downhill.His behaviour had really changed.Just listen to the recordings we have available.
Jak
Sorry I haven't been on here for a long time but I couldn't resist this thread. I have to agree with you Jak on all counts. I was seriously disturbed when I listened to this the first time. If you listen to enough of a variety of shows Elvis did you should be able to tell right off that something is amiss on this night, and it just gets worse. It was truly a man coming unraveled on both ends. Sad to hear.

[Rover]

Ok maybe he was really high during this concert but....maybe what he said was necessary? I guess a few things needed to be clarified about his divorce...He wanted to give his version, the official one to the fans, to avoid the crazy rumors. Or perhaps he was indeed "washing his durty laundry in public" but he wasn't on drug, and this was a glimpse of the human being behind the image we all know and love...That's just my point of view :P

[cameron]

Maybe you should try and comprehend your own tagline, then you'll get the full picture ... :lol:

To try and insult someone because of their opinion adds nothing to a discussion. I will not answer any personal "digs" on these topics anymore.
It just distracts from the conversation. If anyone can't IM me or anyone they "think" they have a problem with ; I'll just report them as per The Conduct Code of this site.

[cameron]

What I am saying is that NOW we have access to what he was saying and doing during those years. Back then we had know way of knowing every little thing he said or every little thing he did, the way we do with celebs now. Can you imagine nowdays what the media coverage would be like??? It would NOT be pretty, and there is a part of me that is glad that Elvis never had to see and/or hear any of it. We all thought that Elvis-What Happened was such a revelation.....
I guess I bought and read EWH when it first came out. It's been setting on a shelf until about 5 years ago when I re-read it.
I can't say I was shocked at all.
IMO, in todays world , it would barely be a ripple in the media.
It seems we have become de-sensitized as much worse things have to be written about to satisfy the media/tabloid readers.

[Merry]

I really think that if the Colonel had not set up that all american boy squeaky clean image that Elvis would have been better off. To me it set the pace that he wasn't allowed to be human and have faults which was highly unfair to him.

Diane


I agree with you, Diane.

Kim

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

IMO, it was not "his dirty laundry " but the gossips he went after .
Semantics, it is one and the same, he never commented publicly on this before ever, so to do so was to air private matters.


You mean the image that was thrust on him.

Elvis was not the only entertainer to carry the burden of the "Squeaky Clean Star" Image, many stars of the 50's and 60's went off the rails and fell short of their publicity machine, same thing applies to todays stars. That said I'm sure it is hard to live to the standards of peoples expectations.


We need to look at all the things going on in this mans life before we ever presume to judge him.

Only god can truly judge Elvis, I simply pass comment on a defining moment in Elvis' career, a moment we can point too and say, this was out of character, this was window on the world of Elvis Presley, his torment clearly on show, his denial of his demons etc. Yes you can say good for Elvis, but to do so only looks at this incident from a narrow perspective. You can understand his remarks about the "Bus Boy" and his denial about street drugs, but he clearly couldn't understand that his addiction to medicated drugs were having the same deleterious impact on him, the casual observer just couldn't differentiate between the two!

In todays world it is impossible to cover up such actions, the media would have had a field day, can you imagine the publicity such comments would have generated, in truth such publicity about Elvis at this point in his career could of perhaps been the turning point he needed to clean himself up. If the press camped out on Elvis' doorstep in the same way they have with Britney Spears who knows what the outcome would have been, there is no doubt the press are far more intrusive than they were back in the 70's :hmm:

[cameron]

In todays world; we have Michael Jackson and people still flock to see him.

Except me. ;) I can't say I ever liked MJ.
To each their own.

I think they need to leave Britney Spears alone too.

[King_Creole]

To try and insult someone because of their opinion adds nothing to a discussion. I will not answer any personal "digs" on these topics anymore.
It just distracts from the conversation. If anyone can't IM me or anyone they "think" they have a problem with ; I'll just report them as per The Conduct Code of this site.


Touchy, Touchy ...

Just where is the insult ???

Where is the personal "dig" ???

:hmm::hmm::hmm:

[KPM]

Good point, I'm more upset because the medication robbed Elvis of the composure he had previously been able to control. Once barriers have been breached it becomes that little bit more easily done the next time. Elvis never commented on politics, never gave a public view on controversial issues as he was aware of how this could be misinterpreted, yet here he was doing his dirty laundry in public.

Elvis could have been stone cold straight, it still would have meant something was intrinsically wrong if he had resorted to this behaviour out of character.
You know it occured to me that this episode is in a nutshell the whole Elvis drug argument. Did he lose his temper because of the drugs or did the drugs just add to the explosion. Was he out and out lying with some of his statements that night or did he truely believe everyword he said. So upset about a heroin rumor- but unbelieving that he was addicted to the things he took. Seeing how destructive heroin was, but not seeing the same in some of his medications. To me this is the debate in a nutshell.

[utmom2008]

I guess I bought and read EWH when it first came out. It's been setting on a shelf until about 5 years ago when I re-read it.
I can't say I was shocked at all.
IMO, in todays world , it would barely be a ripple in the media.
It seems we have become de-sensitized as much worse things have to be written about to satisfy the media/tabloid readers.
Sadly, you are right. Elvis and his shenanigans couldn't hold a candle to the likes of Britney Spears, Lindsay lohan, etc.....Going by today's Hollywood standards Elvis would almost still fit the bill of the squeaky clean Southern boy.
www.youtube.com/utmom2008

[utmom2008]

In todays world; we have Michael Jackson and people still flock to see him.

Except me. ;) I can't say I ever liked MJ.
To each their own.

I think they need to leave Britney Spears alone too.
I don't know that they are still flocking..LOL..where is he now by the way?

[utmom2008]

You know it occured to me that this episode is in a nutshell the whole Elvis drug argument. Did he lose his temper because of the drugs or did the drugs just add to the explosion. Was he out and out lying with some of his statements that night or did he truely believe everyword he said. So upset about a heroin rumor- but unbelieving that he was addicted to the things he took. Seeing how destructive heroin was, but not seeing the same in some of his medications. To me this is the debate in a nutshell.
I still abide by the line of thinking that he was outraged over the heroin story. I don't know what made him lose his temper like that, but I understand where the anger came from in regards to heroin. Remember.....30 years ago we were ALL pretty naive about prescription meds, especially meds given by our Dr. Then there was the Dr. that was supposedly giving him acupuncture, steroids and Demerol. Wasn't that Dr. Ghanem in Vegas? Jerry Schilling writes that when all those are used together it triples the risk of dependancy. I recall a quote of one the Drs. saying "this boy never knew what hit him". My point is this.....in his mind, drugstore medicine and street drugs were entirely different.

[Merry]

I still abide by the line of thinking that he was outraged over the heroin story. I don't know what made him lose his temper like that, but I understand where the anger came from in regards to heroin. Remember.....30 years ago we were ALL pretty naive about prescription meds, especially meds given by our Dr. Then there was the Dr. that was supposedly giving him acupuncture, steroids and Demerol. Wasn't that Dr. Ghanem in Vegas? Jerry Schilling writes that when all those are used together it triples the risk of dependancy. I recall a quote of one the Drs. saying "this boy never knew what hit him". My point is this.....in his mind, drugstore medicine and street drugs were entirely different.


Exactly, that's how the Doctor's patient became addicted, and then, sadly, it was too late.

[KPM]

I still abide by the line of thinking that he was outraged over the heroin story. I don't know what made him lose his temper like that, but I understand where the anger came from in regards to heroin. Remember.....30 years ago we were ALL pretty naive about prescription meds, especially meds given by our Dr. Then there was the Dr. that was supposedly giving him acupuncture, steroids and Demerol. Wasn't that Dr. Ghanem in Vegas? Jerry Schilling writes that when all those are used together it triples the risk of dependancy. I recall a quote of one the Drs. saying "this boy never knew what hit him". My point is this.....in his mind, drugstore medicine and street drugs were entirely different.

Not sure which doctor it was, but the story is in several books-including the book, "Elvis Up Close" in it Doctor Nick talks about how this "special accupuncture treatment for weight loss" hooked Elvis on demerol. When he came back from one treatment to Memphis he had to be carried off the plane Nick called an ambulance-the treatment made him Cushingold (hands and face swollen body bloated from too much cortisone) The number of side effects were many-Elvis's ulcer was bleeding and the pain meds in the accupuncture covered up the pain. But Elvis only new this was a shortcut to weight loss.
What type doctor gives this type treatment to any patient?
The doctors name who gave him this treatment is not mentioned. Nick also mentions during this admission lab techs were selling Elvis's blood and urine. It was crazy Nick says.

[utmom2008]

Not sure which doctor it was, but the story is in several books-including the book, "Elvis Up Close" in it Doctor Nick talks about how this "special accupuncture treatment for weight loss" hooked Elvis on demerol. When he came back from one treatment to Memphis he had to be carried off the plane Nick called an ambulance-the treatment made him Cushingold (hands and face swollen body bloated from too much cortisone) The number of side effects were many-Elvis's ulcer was bleeding and the pain meds in the accupuncture covered up the pain. But Elvis only new this was a shortcut to weight loss.
What type doctor gives this type treatment to any patient?
The doctors name who gave him this treatment is not mentioned. Nick also mentions during this admission lab techs were selling Elvis's blood and urine. It was crazy Nick says.
That's right. I was thinking that the name was Cushing's Syndrome or something like that. I did look it up, and found that what Jerry S. was saying was the truth. And...LOL....remember when Elvis went on the "sleep diet?" My husband says he wants to give that one a try! But I do recall that Dr. Elias Ghanem seemed to be a major problem as well. Elvis was staying at his house when he fell and couldn't get up, said his legs wouldn't work. Jerry chewed out the Dr. the next day and told him he never wanted to see "that prideful man in that condition again".

[KPM]

I do recall reading about the sleep diet also. Elvis was surely the one for any treatment which offered some quick answer to problems- which rarely have true quick fixes.

[utmom2008]

I do recall reading about the sleep diet also. Elvis was surely the one for any treatment which offered some quick answer to problems- which rarely have true quick fixes.
True.....out of all the gifts that God gave him, patience was NOT one of them!

[Donut]

Elvis KNEW he had an addiction problem and that he was taking too much than what he needed, that´s why he had different doctors giving him stuff.
He knew he couldn´t take all that just from one doctor legally. Don´t underestimate Elvis intelligence, he didn´t want to aknowledge it because that would have meant having to face the problem.

[Merry]

Elvis KNEW he had an addiction problem and that he was taking too much than what he needed, that´s why he had different doctors giving him stuff.
He knew he couldn´t take all that just from one doctor legally. Don´t underestimate Elvis intelligence, he didn´t want to aknowledge it because that would have meant having to face the problem.


Addictions take you over, sadly.

[Suzan]

In the 1960's they gave my mother in law emphatamines because she was gaining to much weight while pregnant w/my husband, in the 70's still nothing was thought of to give prescriptions drugs out for whatever ailed you, jeez it's still being done today, something hurts, or you have some sort of "syndrom" here's a pill....and there were no Betty Ford clinics around when Elvis was going thru this and Dr's were highly respected, so why would Elvis ? his Dr's? Or think he had a problem when they were medications prescribed to him? You know what I mean?
As for the image the Col. created, well...maybe due to the reaction to Elvis when he hit the scene it was necessary to a degree.
Elvis said it best "The image is one thing, the human being is another." "It's very hard to live up to a image, I'll put it that way."

[KPM]

Elvis KNEW he had an addiction problem and that he was taking too much than what he needed, that´s why he had different doctors giving him stuff.
He knew he couldn´t take all that just from one doctor legally. Don´t underestimate Elvis intelligence, he didn´t want to aknowledge it because that would have meant having to face the problem.
I agree with this statement but disagree about whether he knew he had an addiction problem. If the doctors told him he needed 1 pill a lot of evidence says he truely believed he needed 3 or 5 etc comments from many insiders supports this.. I have never underestimated his intelligence. IMO Intelligence is not the sole governor of how we act, react and interact in life. Your intelligence will tell you to do all sorts of things which are rational and in your best interests-but we don't always do them? Sad but true for everyone (luckily all our actions which are harmful and destructive are not played out in public, nor discussed in forums).
IMO If he felt "he knew he needed certain things" and "he knew they did not understand" so in his mind he was not addicted and was only taking care of his self. The problem when someone feels like this is that it overrules their intelligence and they don't react rationally. You can be the smartest guy in the world and not see the simplist solution to a problem right in front of your face.

[jak]

When the drug issue is discussed it always centers around Elvis during the 70's along with any health problems he may have had.Just dont forget that Elvis was carrrying around his PDR manual all the way back to the early 60's.I believe his health was just fine at the time.Normal people just dont carry that around.It's not exactly light reading.Elvis had a fascination with drugs way back.Dr Nick was not in the picture either.It just took several years for his problem to escalate where he couldnt keep it hidden.
Jak

[Merry]

In the 1960's they gave my mother in law emphatamines because she was gaining to much weight while pregnant w/my husband, in the 70's still nothing was thought of to give prescriptions drugs out for whatever ailed you, jeez it's still being done today, something hurts, or you have some sort of "syndrom" here's a pill....and there were no Betty Ford clinics around when Elvis was going thru this and Dr's were highly respected, so why would Elvis ? his Dr's? Or think he had a problem when they were medications prescribed to him? You know what I mean?



Oh my Susan, that's terrible.

This is an example of how the Doctors just didn't know. It was also the done thing, back then, for people to respect their Doctor, as you said, following blindly anything they suggested, as they were placed on pedestals by our society.

I still resent the stupidity of our "family doctor" when my grandmother died, huh! :angry:

[Merry]

When the drug issue is discussed it always centers around Elvis during the 70's along with any health problems he may have had.Just dont forget that Elvis was carrrying around his PDR manual all the way back to the early 60's.I believe his health was just fine at the time.Normal people just dont carry that around.It's not exactly light reading.Elvis had a fascination with drugs way back.Dr Nick was not in the picture either.It just took several years for his problem to escalate where he couldnt keep it hidden.
Jak


It was the norm for uppers to stay awake, downers to go to sleep (if I have it right).

They didn't know, including the Doctors, situations were thought of differently, then.

[Merry]

Originally Posted by KPM http://www.tcb-world.com/images/forumtalk/buttons/viewpost.gif (http://www.tcb-world.com/showthread.php?p=150294#post150294)
Not sure which doctor it was, but the story is in several books-including the book, "Elvis Up Close" in it Doctor Nick talks about how this "special accupuncture treatment for weight loss" hooked Elvis on demerol. When he came back from one treatment to Memphis he had to be carried off the plane Nick called an ambulance-the treatment made him Cushingold (hands and face swollen body bloated from too much cortisone) The number of side effects were many-Elvis's ulcer was bleeding and the pain meds in the accupuncture covered up the pain. But Elvis only new this was a shortcut to weight loss.
What type doctor gives this type treatment to any patient?
The doctors name who gave him this treatment is not mentioned. Nick also mentions during this admission lab techs were selling Elvis's blood and urine. It was crazy Nick says.



If the above is true, I'm absolutely disgusted in that "person" (Doctor) :angry:

[Suzan]

Oh my Susan, that's terrible.

This is an example of how the Doctors just didn't know. It was also the done thing, back then, for people to respect their Doctor, as you said, following blindly anything they suggested, as they were placed on pedestals by our society.

I still resent the stupidity of our "family doctor" when my grandmother died, huh! :angry:
Exactly, and it's still going on today.
As far as what I've heard, Elvis did not think he had a problem.
I'm so sorry about your grandmother.:(:(:(:(
My aunt died due to Dr's stupidity.

[utmom2008]

In the 1960's they gave my mother in law emphatamines because she was gaining to much weight while pregnant w/my husband, in the 70's still nothing was thought of to give prescriptions drugs out for whatever ailed you, jeez it's still being done today, something hurts, or you have some sort of "syndrom" here's a pill....and there were no Betty Ford clinics around when Elvis was going thru this and Dr's were highly respected, so why would Elvis ? his Dr's? Or think he had a problem when they were medications prescribed to him? You know what I mean?
As for the image the Col. created, well...maybe due to the reaction to Elvis when he hit the scene it was necessary to a degree.
Elvis said it best "The image is one thing, the human being is another." "It's very hard to live up to a image, I'll put it that way."
You are right, the same thing went on with my mother-n-law. And, much like Elvis, she thought if 1 makes me better then 2 will really make me better. People sometimes know they are taking more than they should, hence the Dr. shopping, but that's still not admitting that you have an addiction, that you are powerless over this drug. You tend to think I may take more than the Doc says, but I can quit taking them whenever I get ready. It's difficult for people to admit that a little "pill" is completely controlling their life. It has nothing to do with how smart you are.....

[utmom2008]

It was the norm for uppers to stay awake, downers to go to sleep (if I have it right).

They didn't know, including the Doctors, situations were thought of differently, then.
The uppers and downers were somewhat understandable in his lifestyle after 1969. We were watching TTWII the other night and my hubby and I both commented on how impossible it would be to do that 2 times a night..then just go upstairs and go to bed. I know I sure would not have been able to do it!

[utmom2008]

In the 1960's they gave my mother in law emphatamines because she was gaining to much weight while pregnant w/my husband, in the 70's still nothing was thought of to give prescriptions drugs out for whatever ailed you, jeez it's still being done today, something hurts, or you have some sort of "syndrom" here's a pill....and there were no Betty Ford clinics around when Elvis was going thru this and Dr's were highly respected, so why would Elvis ? his Dr's? Or think he had a problem when they were medications prescribed to him? You know what I mean?
As for the image the Col. created, well...maybe due to the reaction to Elvis when he hit the scene it was necessary to a degree.
Elvis said it best "The image is one thing, the human being is another." "It's very hard to live up to a image, I'll put it that way."

I have thought many times about that statement...it is sooo true.:!:

[Donut]

I agree with this statement but disagree about whether he knew he had an addiction problem. If the doctors told him he needed 1 pill a lot of evidence says he truely believed he needed 3 or 5 etc comments from many insiders supports this.. I have never underestimated his intelligence. IMO Intelligence is not the sole governor of how we act, react and interact in life. Your intelligence will tell you to do all sorts of things which are rational and in your best interests-but we don't always do them? Sad but true for everyone (luckily all our actions which are harmful and destructive are not played out in public, nor discussed in forums).
IMO If he felt "he knew he needed certain things" and "he knew they did not understand" so in his mind he was not addicted and was only taking care of his self. The problem when someone feels like this is that it overrules their intelligence and they don't react rationally. You can be the smartest guy in the world and not see the simplist solution to a problem right in front of your face.

Of course he felt he needed them, he was an addict. But he knew how much he could take in a therapeutal level, he had his PDR always with him since the 60´s. The problem is he crossed the line for X reasons and wasn´t able to go back never again, just like any other addict in this world in his same situation.
I agree with you on not acting in our best interests some times but not because we don´t realize what we are doing is not the right thing for us, it´s because we don´t want so we don´t have to take action and make the big effort to face the problem. I think that was what happened to Elvis. Maybe he didn´t find the strengh to do it or maybe he didn´t have more time.
Sad both ways.

[Suzan]

I have thought many times about that statement...it is sooo true.:!:

I agree w/all you said.:)

Donut, though I 99% of the time agree with you, on this I have to disagree.
To call Elvis in addict, is fine, hindsight is 20/20, but if you go back to the mind sets of the 60's and 70's he was not considered an "addict" and as for the guys and Pris claiming so now, well of course, because more is known now...again the 20/20.

[KPM]

When the drug issue is discussed it always centers around Elvis during the 70's along with any health problems he may have had.Just dont forget that Elvis was carrrying around his PDR manual all the way back to the early 60's.I believe his health was just fine at the time.Normal people just dont carry that around.It's not exactly light reading.Elvis had a fascination with drugs way back.Dr Nick was not in the picture either.It just took several years for his problem to escalate where he couldnt keep it hidden.
Jak
I think you and I discussed this once before. I have never heard what his health was in the early 60s it was not reported on very much so I can not say what his medical problems were or were not. If you are protecting an image there are things you don't want public knowledge (colon, blood pressure, ulcers etc)- They show how human our "stars" are so I do not doubt that any problems he may have had were kept very hush hush.
I seem to recall he began to carry the PDR in 1963 and it was noticed in his trailer by the actor Jeremy Slate during the making of Girls Girls Girls. You are correct most people would not carry this around-but once again I point out he felt there was a pill for every ill- big or small. I have heard (or read) that stated by Lamar Fike, Joe, Dr. Nick, Billy, Jerry, Priscilla etc in one form or another. If he did believe there is a pill for every ill,(as so many have said) where would you look to find out what is available for what problem? The PDR. I'm not saying its normal, nor a right way for him to be-but something in him believed in pills for all ills. The real ills and the imagined ills.
I'm curious if anyone here has ever had a panic attack? Your blood pressure skyrockets, your heart goes into palpitations, your breathing becomes labored and it can actually lead to heart attack if you repeatidly have these. The symptoms are real-but basically its your mind causing them. The consequences of them are real, even though its only your mind believing you havea a problem. It usually takes some therapy to control them.
Now I am not saying Elvis ever had panic attacks, but IMO he did have real problems and imagined ills which he believed in. Which were which- is a good question.

[Donut]

I agree w/all you said.:)

Donut, though I 99% of the time agree with you, on this I have to disagree.
To call Elvis in addict, is fine, hindsight is 20/20, but if you go back to the mind sets of the 60's and 70's he was not considered an "addict" and as for the guys and Pris claiming so now, well of course, because more is known now...again the 20/20.

Well that´s fine with me Suzan, we all see things different here ;)
But I don´t agree with you on this either. To give an example Marty Lacker was an addict the same as Elvis was. He knew it, his wife knew it and that happened in the 70´s too. Supposedly Dr. Nick, Billy, Linda etc tried to fool Elvis giving him placebos. Doctors talked to him about his addiction in the 70´s when he was admited to hospital. Sonny and Red wrote EWH explaining his problem with pills, so we can´t say it was an unknown problem by then, that´s not true.

[KPM]

Of course he felt he needed them, he was an addict. But he knew how much he could take in a therapeutal level, he had his PDR always with him since the 60´s. The problem is he crossed the line for X reasons and wasn´t able to go back never again, just like any other addict in this world in his same situation.
I agree with you on not acting in our best interests some times but not because we don´t realize what we are doing is not the right thing for us, it´s because we don´t want so we don´t have to take action and make the big effort to face the problem. I think that was what happened to Elvis. Maybe he didn´t find the strengh to do it or maybe he didn´t have more time.
Sad both ways.
You and I know now he was an addict to the medications I was not saying he was not. What I am saying is when you believe you need them, you don't think you are an addict. You and I may see it that way now with hindsight. You and I know he crossed the line for whatever reasons, but he thought he needed more- that if 1 pill helped 3 would be even better etc... how many insiders have said that was Elvis's philosophy. Thats why ordinary people should not self diagnose.

[KPM]

Well that´s fine with me Suzan, we all see things different here ;)
But I don´t agree with you on this either. To give an example Marty Lacker was an addict the same as Elvis was. He knew it, his wife knew it and that happened in the 70´s too. Supposedly Dr. Nick, Billy, Linda etc tried to fool Elvis giving him placebos. Doctors talked to him about his addiction in the 70´s when he was admited to hospital. Sonny and Red wrote EWH explaining his problem with pills, so we can´t say it was an unknown problem by then, that´s not true.
Dr. Nick has claimed about 80% of the pills he gave to Elvis were placebos-Billy says in the "Rev. of the MM" that it may have been 50% placebos. He also says they stole a lot of meds from Elvis for personal use.
If Elvis did not believe he was an addict it would not matter how many people told him he had a problem-he would not believe it. John Belushi also did not believe he was an addict(althought his drugs of choice were no way legal) His wife tried to get him help so did Dan Ackroyd- but Belushi told them he was a casual user who could quit anytime he wanted.

[cameron]

I'm curious if anyone here has ever had a panic attack? Your blood pressure skyrockets, your heart goes into palpitations, your breathing becomes labored and it can actually lead to heart attack if you repeatidly have these. The symptoms are real-but basically its your mind causing them. The consequences of them are real, even though its only your mind believing you havea a problem. It usually takes some therapy to control them.
Now I am not saying Elvis ever had panic attacks, but IMO he did have real problems and imagined ills which he believed in. Which were which- is a good question.

I have had panic attacks; many years ago.
My youngest daughter is dealing with them now.
It is not pleasant..but, they're very real .

I think Elvis did have panic attacks. His symptoms remind me of them.
The doctors didn't know about them them. They just thought you were crazy. Sometimes, you even thought so yourself. ;)
Donny Osmond has them too.

[KPM]

I have had panic attacks; many years ago.
My youngest daughter is dealing with them now.
It is not pleasant..but, they're very real .

I think Elvis did have panic attacks. His symptoms remind me of them.
The doctors didn't know about them them. They just thought you were crazy. Sometimes, you even thought so yourself. ;)
Donny Osmond has them too.
I was not saying he had any panic attacks-I was just trying to point out how the mind has a huge effect on your body if it believes something.

[Donut]

You and I know now he was an addict to the medications I was not saying he was not. What I am saying is when you believe you need them, you don't think you are an addict. You and I may see it that way now with hindsight. You and I know he crossed the line for whatever reasons, but he thought he needed more- that if 1 pill helped 3 would be even better etc... how many insiders have said that was Elvis's philosophy. Thats why ordinary people should not self diagnose.

I know what you meant KPM. I was trying to explain to you that I don´t believe he did it because he thought he needed more, ie 3 better than 1.
My point is I think he did it because it got to a degree when 1 wasn´t enough to get the desired effect to him and had to take 3.
Now, we didn´t know what some pills could make to our body 30 years ago but we knew how many our body could take.
Just out of curiosity... why do you think he visited all those doctors at the same time without one not knowing about the other?
Isn´t it logical to think that was a way to get more because doctors (those people he thought were the voice of reason) would not aprove to get all that?
I still think he knew what was happening to him and couldn´t find the strengh to get out of it.

[cameron]

I was not saying he had any panic attacks-I was just trying to point out how the mind has a huge effect on your body if it believes something.

Yes, I know. But, since reading about him a lot and watching him...he appeared to be a nervous wreck from the beginning.
I have a grandson that acts the same.
Since I've experienced panic attacks, personally. I have wondered if he might not have experienced some of the same.
There are other things {I'd rather not say.People accuse him of enough }
I've read that fit into that . I'll never know, but I feel it might be so.IMO.

[KPM]

I know what you meant KPM. I was trying to explain to you that I don´t believe he did it because he thought he needed more, ie 3 better than 1.
My point is I think he did it because it got to a degree when 1 wasn´t enough to get the desired effect to him and had to take 3.
Now, we didn´t know what some pills could make to our body 30 years ago but we knew how many our body could take.
Just out of curiosity... why do you think he visited all those doctors at the same time without one not knowing about the other? Isn´t it logical to think that was a way to get more because doctors (those people he thought were the voice of reason) would not aprove to get all that?
I still think he knew what was happening to him and couldn´t find the strengh to get out of it.
I thought I gave my opinion on why-he felt he knew better than they did-he lelt he needed it he justified using other doctors because he felt he truely needed it. You do not feel that way so we just disagree. Nothing personal.
I have not got my point accross I guess - my point is I do believe he thought- "1 was better than 3 always-not just after he got addicted" Not one insider has said that it took a while for Elvis to think 1 was better than 3- from the start he thought 1 would be better than 3. It is a fact the body builds up a tolerance to most medications or drugs taken over a long period and I am not disputing that. I am just saying from what I have read everyone pretty much agrees he truely believed he needed more, all the way back to his first sleeping pills he got in the 50s. His sleeping problems go back all the way to Tupelo and from what I have read it was an acute problem long before he ever set foot on a stage.
I see what you are saying and some points I agree others I don't.

[Suzan]

Good points Donut, but that's easy for those guys to say now, I wonder what they would have said had you asked them 30 yrs ago? You know what I mean? And Elvis did not think he had a problem. And maybe the circumstances changed enough by 1976-77 to make Dr. Nick realize there may be a problem. I hope what I'm trying to say makes sense. lol
BTW Donut thank you for your very nice and non-judgemental response and understanding, much appreciated.:D:D:D:D

[franny]

Sorry, if this is off-topic, but since there's talk of pills...

Was Dr. Nick the only doctor Elvis went to? Was Elvis prescribed any other pills from any other doctor's? :hmm:

franny

[jak]

Sorry, if this is off-topic, but since there's talk of pills...

Was Dr. Nick the only doctor Elvis went to? Was Elvis prescribed any other pills from any other doctor's? :hmm:

franny

Elvis got his pills from several doctors.I believe that shows Elvis knew exactly what he was doing as previously stated.It's obvious he knew he shouldnt be using so many drugs so he had more than one source.
Jak

[franny]

Thanks, for your answer jak! (y)

Do these several doctor's know they are prescribing all these pills to Elvis? Is this something they discuss with each other?

franny

[KPM]

Elvis got his pills from several doctors.I believe that shows Elvis knew exactly what he was doing as previously stated.It's obvious he knew he shouldnt be using so many drugs so he had more than one source.
Jak
This is one of those times where we are going to disagree Jak. I have stated a couple times my opinion and we just do not agree. IMO it does not prove he knew he was an addict, nor accepted that he was an addict. I am not disputing what we now know-I am saying even if he was told he was an addict he did not believe it. Getting pills from several sources IMO does not meant he accepted the fact he was an addict. Most addicts do not believe they are addicts-they either believe they can handle their situation or they need the drugs for some reason which is legit. Elvis may have been a little bit of both. But in his mind I do not believe he felt ever he was an addict. That is where we disagree my friend.

[utmom2008]

This is one of those times where we are going to disagree Jak. I have stated a couple times my opinion and we just do not agree. IMO it does not prove he knew he was an addict, nor accepted that he was an addict. I am not disputing what we now know-I am saying even if he was told he was an addict he did not believe it. Getting pills from several sources IMO does not meant he accepted the fact he was an addict. Most addicts do not believe they are addicts-they either believe they can handle their situation or they need the drugs for some reason which is legit. Elvis may have been a little bit of both. But in his mind I do not believe he felt ever he was an addict. That is where we disagree my friend.
I totally agree KPM. I have seen this very thing happen within my own family. Even when you are "Dr. shopping" and "double dipping" that person will not say that they are an addict. When they can finally say "I'm powerless over those pills", only then do they recognize that they may be an addict. Elvis felt in control over alot of personal things, and I feel sure he felt very much in control of the drug usage as well. Lots of people see multiple Drs., yet they would be highly offended if they were accused of being an addict. Plus....all Dr. junkies feel OK about the meds because they have come from a Dr.

[utmom2008]

You and I know now he was an addict to the medications I was not saying he was not. What I am saying is when you believe you need them, you don't think you are an addict. You and I may see it that way now with hindsight. You and I know he crossed the line for whatever reasons, but he thought he needed more- that if 1 pill helped 3 would be even better etc... how many insiders have said that was Elvis's philosophy. Thats why ordinary people should not self diagnose.
So true, so true. Your "mind" can convince you of just about anything, good or bad.

[Diane]

I don't believe Elvis ever admitted even to himself that he was addicted. I think he was horrified when his friends wrote the book and may just then wondered if he was in trouble but it was years too late. Most likely, he felt hurt because they would think that of him.

Diane

[jak]

I think Elvis knew he had a problem with drugs.I think he just underestimated it and probably thought he could stop whenever he wanted.Whenever you get somebody having several doctors getting you drugs to me it shows intent.It shows youre making a descion to get what you want.I doubt however Elvis ever thought he was a full blown addict.Knowing how vain he was it's hard to believe he could look at himself in a mirror and not know what he was doing to himself.
Jak

[KPM]

I think Elvis knew he had a problem with drugs.I think he just underestimated it and probably thought he could stop whenever he wanted.Whenever you get somebody having several doctors getting you drugs to me it shows intent.It shows youre making a descion to get what you want.I doubt however Elvis ever thought he was a full blown addict.Knowing how vain he was it's hard to believe he could look at himself in a mirror and not know what he was doing to himself.
Jak
A lot of addicts feel "they are the exception" when it comes to problems with medications or drugs. They fool themselves with-"I can handle it because I'm stronger than most" "I know what I need better than anyone, its my body, its my life" "How dare them tell me what the limits are, I know my limits" " I'm no street junkie, how dare them imply that" ...................

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

There has to be some level of acknowledgement somewhere, Elvis had overdosed on several occaisions.... how can that be reconciled?

all said and done, I think there was some acknowledgement and disillusionment, but I believe that Elvis thought at some point he could pull it together again like he had done in the past.

[Diane]

I agree with you 100% JJ, he thought he could control it because he didn't believe it was controlling him.

Diane

[utmom2008]

This is not Elvis at his best that's for sure, the drugs dialogue is just..... well..... shocking...... that kind of behaviour is just unprofessional, however Elvis wasn't the first or last to have displayed such behaviour in front of the public. Let us be clear though, until this point Elvis by and large had been the consummate professional publicly.

As has been touched on in this post already, this really was the first obvious public steps in a steady and unstoppable decline. What is more shocking is that those close to Elvis had seen this coming for many years! I know people will say that you can't help a man who can't help himself, but come people, someone should of took the bull by the horns and helped Elvis. My betting is that Elvis' flunky's praised this outburst (n)
Yes, you mention that those around him should have seen it coming. I read recently(can't remeber which book) an interview with the TCB Band and one of them said that they knew in June of 77 that the end was coming quickly. So sad.........:mad:

[Suzan]

Ricky Stanley and David Stanley said the same thing about the end being near and their feeling that Elvis may have felt it as well, back in 1979 in their book "We Love You Tender".

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

Yes, you mention that those around him should have seen it coming. I read recently(can't remeber which book) an interview with the TCB Band and one of them said that they knew in June of 77 that the end was coming quickly. So sad.........:mad:

I have also heard these statements before, but Elvis looked far worse in 1976 than he did in certain parts of 1977. The CBS shows Elvis looked heavy but on the whole looked better than October 1976 where he is lighter. :hmm:

[Suzan]

I agree w/that jumpsuit...

[Getlo]

I have also heard these statements before, but Elvis looked far worse in 1976 than he did in certain parts of 1977. The CBS shows Elvis looked heavy but on the whole looked better than October 1976 where he is lighter. :hmm:

I think Elvis looked his absolute worst in February 1977 ... at the show in Holywood, Florida in particular. Just revolting. Bad even for him.

That's the time he shoulda (woulda, coulda) tried to help himself.

[Suzan]

I don't think I could ever describe Elvis as revolting. He was a sick man, and he was doing what he could...and it's easy for us to look back and go, he should have done this, could have done that, but none of us lived his life, and none of us know what he was feeling or thinking or what we would have done because none of us have been in his shoes and had the pressures he had, etc...etc...etc...
Plus I think we've gone off topic.

[utmom2008]

I have also heard these statements before, but Elvis looked far worse in 1976 than he did in certain parts of 1977. The CBS shows Elvis looked heavy but on the whole looked better than October 1976 where he is lighter. :hmm:
How did he look in 76? I've watched some youtube videos, but nothing that is really a close-up. I last saw him in December of 76, but the seats were not great so it was hard to tell much. I could sure tell he didn't look like the early Vegas years:sad:

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

I think Elvis looked his absolute worst in February 1977 ... at the show in Holywood, Florida in particular. Just revolting. Bad even for him.

That's the time he shoulda (woulda, coulda) tried to help himself.

I agree, that was a low point, If people had said that he didn't have long after that, you would have to agree :'(

I would also class Montgomery In Feb along with Florida

[Diane]

I think 1976 in general was a bad year for Elvis and the first part of 1977. After that, he seemed to pull out of it a little.

Diane

[Suzan]

I think 1976 in general was a bad year for Elvis and the first part of 1977. After that, he seemed to pull out of it a little.

Diane


I agree w/u on that Diane.:D:D I don't know what happened in '76 but he did not look good, he truly looked like there was something drastically wrong with him, not just prescription drug wise, but his overall state. :(
I think that he did pull it together some in '77, not like he had in the past, but some and so maybe he did fool himself into thinking he could go back to the way it had been, that he could pull it off again.
But in comparison to the weight John Candy or Belushi or Chris Farley and jeez even John Goodman, Elvis was nowhere near as big as people say he was, in comparison to the above mentioned celebs. If you look at the '77 concert footage, his arms are quite thin, it's his belly, hands and face that look bloated, bloating, to me anyway, is quite different then being obese.

[utmom2008]

I agree w/u on that Diane.:D:D I don't know what happened in '76 but he did not look good, he truly looked like there was something drastically wrong with him, not just prescription drug wise, but his overall state. :(
I think that he did pull it together some in '77, not like he had in the past, but some and so maybe he did fool himself into thinking he could go back to the way it had been, that he could pull it off again.
But in comparison to the weight John Candy or Belushi or Chris Farley and jeez even John Goodman, Elvis was nowhere near as big as people say he was, in comparison to the above mentioned celebs. If you look at the '77 concert footage, his arms are quite thin, it's his belly, hands and face that look bloated, bloating, to me anyway, is quite different then being obese.
Totally different Suzan, you are soooo right. The bloating was from the steroids and the Demerol mixture.He didn't look like a man that was eating too many cheeseburgers, but a man that was sick and bloated. That's why it makes me sad to see him that way:'(

[marijaep]

I agree w/u on that Diane.:D:D I don't know what happened in '76 but he did not look good, he truly looked like there was something drastically wrong with him, not just prescription drug wise, but his overall state. :(
I think that he did pull it together some in '77, not like he had in the past, but some and so maybe he did fool himself into thinking he could go back to the way it had been, that he could pull it off again.
But in comparison to the weight John Candy or Belushi or Chris Farley and jeez even John Goodman, Elvis was nowhere near as big as people say he was, in comparison to the above mentioned celebs. If you look at the '77 concert footage, his arms are quite thin, it's his belly, hands and face that look bloated, bloating, to me anyway, is quite different then being obese.

Yes, you are totally right. He never looked that fat to me either, he looked like someone who was very sick. So, yeah, he was bloated, his face and hands especially. It's sad to see him like that because I know the fact that there was something wrong with him inside and outside...:'( I wish he never took those pills! Thanks for comparing him with other celebrities and when I think about it, you are right again lol.

[Suzan]

:D :D thanks. That is just how I view it and think about it. To me, I look @ that footage and I don't see a "drug addict" I see a ailing man, a man who needed help and didn't get it, and that makes me so very sad because he was always there for everyone else. I to am sad that he couldn't leave the pills and I'm even angrier that our (American) army at that time was handing these pills out...that's where the addiction began, I feel anyway.

[Diane]

(y) Suzan...yes the army! :angry:

[Suzan]

(y) Suzan...yes the army! :angry:

Yes, disgusting isn't it? I think it's shameful. I hope to God they aren't still doing that, bad enough our young men and women are not at home, but then to add an addiction to the list of ills...boggles my mind.:(