Elvis Then & Now

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

I have got to thinking about how Elvis is percievd by older and younger fans, not just the generalisations or steriotypes, but how FANS view Elvis through a generational point of view.

There are thousands of books out there all telling us the facts as they see it, we have the MM, Priscilla, LMP & various people who claim to have the inside scoop etc.

My point is who is the real Elvis Presley? With all the revelations that have come out since Elvis' death there must be a different kind of fan from those around at the time..

Are those fans who were around when Elvis was alive less tolerant of the revelations than the new?

Is there a generational view of how Elvis is percieved? Has this always been the case or a more recent issue.

I have heard the term 'Real Fans' many times over the years, what does this mean... is it fans who were around when Elvis was alive, or is it simply a view of Elvis from one stand point?

Is there room for both fans?

Who will guide the fans of the future?

[Getlo]

Are those fans who were around when Elvis was alive less tolerant of the revelations than the new?

In my experience, definitely!

Is there a generational view of how Elvis is percieved? Has this always been the case or a more recent issue.


I have heard the term 'Real Fans' many times over the years, what does this mean...

It's an elitist and divisive term used when someone can't stand to hear the truth, or something that's distasteful to them, or something that defies their own perception of Elvis.

There is no such thing as a "real fan", as that implies there are "false fans".

Every fan is ... well ... a fan.

[john carpenter]

Most younger people i know percieve Elvis as a jumpsuit wearing overweight opera singer who died on the toilet. It's sad that they can't understand the style of clothes in the seventies. And you don't choose where you pass away. And Elvis could sing anything,rock, country gospel. Even my nephews think he's kinda cool since they remixed his song in the Ghetto with Three six mafia (rap artist) And they like the remix of "a little less conversation. So i'm trying to enlighten them that Elvis was and is the greatest entertainter of all time.:angry::Lighten:

[Diane]

In defense of the older fans who were there when Elvis was alive, I think it was more of a shock for us to find he had drug problems than it was for the younger fans who grew up knowing it from the beginning and therefore harder for us to accept it. Those who couldn't accept it and turned away, I feel can no longer be called fans, but I think most of us were finally able to come to terms with it and still honor him for himself as he was.

I have to admit personally when I first heard about the drug abuse I was very disappointed in Elvis but I never turned away from him. He certainly was not the only entertainer who had that problem. I think it would have been better all the way around had it not been kept secret....for him as well as for us.

But are we older fans more real fans than the younger ones? Of course not, a fan is a fan no matter what age.

Diane

[italianfan]

i do think john carpenter is right to an extent when it comes to younger fans, im 20 nd hav been a fan since about 15. as iv got older iv found alot more people hav become more acepting of Elvis, whether theyre a fan or not.

i think this is down to both the recent marketing (i supose you could call it) by the people tht run EPE, like the 68 comeback DVD set, aloha DVD set, a few remixes, releasing song that hav come out last few years. all this shows elvis in a good light. but i also think as people get older they apreciate at lot more older stuff, not just music.

Gernerally, i think that the view of all young people hate elvis is becoming less and less true. 80% of people i knw appreciate Elvis in some way.

[john carpenter]

That's great to hear italianfan. I wasn't trying to run down younger people (i'm 43) it's just like me trying to listen to Bing Crosby. I was never into his music style. You are a very wise younger person. I wish there were more like you with an open mind.

[Donut]

How could you meassure a real fan? Everyone has their own reason to like Elvis. There are the ones who are interseted in his private life, the ones that buy every FTD, the ones that like his films and neither one of them should be being looked down for not being interested in the same parcel of him as the other even though i´m sure an enternainer apreciates more being admired for his work...

As for the generational view of Elvis i´m starting to think that it does exist. I´m in my 30´s and I can tell you the first time I read a bio on Elvis was amazed at how tame he looked to me comparing him to today standards in every aspect, his way of having fun, the stuff he took and many more things, while I read how people from that time took those things like he was sent here by the devil himself or not capable of such inacceptable behaviour.

[Donut]

I think it would have been better all the way around had it not been kept secret....for him as well as for us.

Diane

Yes, me too. The pressure he must have felt for hiding his addiction i´m sure contibuted to his decline.

[SleepyJack]

I think that being an Elvis fan is purely a personal thing and even within that there will be times when some of your perceptions and opinions of him will change but at the end of the day if you are still listening to the music and watching him on film,reading the books and visiting the related places on the internet and you are still enjoying it then that is the important thing.It is only since my first cautious journeys on the internet that I became aware of the differences between certain "types" of fans....before then,maybe naively,I thought either you were a fan or you weren`t.
I think many of the problems with that,especially on forums and such is all down to people`s opinions of themselves and of their own importance.....and like in most walks of life that can be a very clouded area.Basically you know when you hear Elvis whether you are a fan or not,maybe that`s too simple??..Don`t care...it works for me!

[cameron]

I don't use the term "real fan."
The "older fan" {even older than me ;) } are only the ones that knew him longer and kept up with all he did from the beginning.
Of course, I respect their opinions and love hearing their stories.

IMO, the only"difference" is that everyone is interested in just a part of Elvis.
Such as ; the jumpsuits, every recording and/or concert he ever did.
Some keep track of everything he did "day by day''.

I'm just one that was drawn to his music first . Then went on and became interested in his life story. He's a fascinating person.
I'm one of the "older fans" that was never shocked by what was in the book, EWH. Only that his "friends" had it written. Like it not, condemn me or not...I don't care . It's my opinion.
Believe me, Goldmans book was much worse !! With the help of another "Elvis friend." Lamar Fike.

[Diane]

I have to agree with Jack. Being an Elvis fan is really very simple by how he affects you when you listen to his music no matter what age you are.

Yes, us older fans were there from the beginning, some of us more than others. For myself when my children were very young, they were what my life was all about. I still bought records and magazines, but I didn't chase around to his concerts (I only saw him twice) and it wasn't until our children were grown that I began to seriously collect memorabilia....so does that make me a "lapsed" fan? :)

Diane

[SleepyJack]

I don`t think it makes you a "Lapsed fan" Diane........At worst it makes you a reasonably level-headed lady with your priorities in the right place!.......and that is always a good thing.

[Diane]

Thank you Jack.:D


Diane

[Unchained Melody]

I think Getlo said it right. Every fan is a fan.

You can't determine who is the most real fan by age. The great thing about being an Elvis fan is that There's Something For Everybody. (Sounds like a good title for an album:P).

You got the Movie Years, the CD Collectors, those who love to collect Vinyl etc, and those who love to hunt down footage.

It's great to be an Elvis fan, and I think more and more young people are drawn to Elvis, the more young people who realize how great of an entertainer but more importantly how great of a man he really was. One of the most interesting lifes in American History IMO!! Age has nothing to do with whether you are a fan or not imo, as long as Elvis makes you happy than its all that matter I think.

[marijaep]

I'm glad that the older fans have the same respect towards us younger fans, as we have for them. I think that age doesn't matter when it comes to being a fan. I believe that everybody on this site is a true fan in their own way. Elvis means something different to every person - individually. Some tend to wear the "rose colored glasses" and others want to stick to "the truth", which doesn't make them more or less of a fan than the others and vise versa.

As a younger fan, I must say that my friends don't know much about Elvis and they are not interested in learning either. I've tried millions of times to get them hear some of his songs, see some of the concerts etc, but it still wouldn't work. They stick to what they've heard and they haven't heard much. The thing that I can't stand is that they have some kind of an aversion, all of that because he was a drug addict. It really doesn't make any sense to me especially when I see them passionately worshiping some hard rock bands that have really serious drug problems.
I wasn't surprised when I first read that Elvis was a drug addict. I liked his music at first place and nothing could change my mind :king:

[Unchained Melody]

I wasn't surprised when I first read that Elvis was a drug addict. I liked his music at first place and nothing could change my mind :king:

I can't say I wasn't surprised, in a way I was, but it did make his life story that much more appealing to me and interesting in a way....

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

I can't say I wasn't surprised, in a way I was, but it did make his life story that much more appealing to me and interesting in a way....

I wasn't really aware of the other side of Elvis' life (darker side) until the early 80's, it certainly added a different dimension but only added to my intrigue :supriced:

[goodelvisgirl]

Most younger people i know percieve Elvis as a jumpsuit wearing overweight opera singer who died on the toilet. It's sad that they can't understand the style of clothes in the seventies. And you don't choose where you pass away. And Elvis could sing anything,rock, country gospel. Even my nephews think he's kinda cool since they remixed his song in the Ghetto with Three six mafia (rap artist) And they like the remix of "a little less conversation. So i'm trying to enlighten them that Elvis was and is the greatest entertainter of all time.:angry::Lighten:

i agree being young the young people i know have the same idea of elvis and think he is something your grandma would listen to but sometimes i have had this put down from older elvis fans cos elvis was in there era he was part of there growing up and they think they know more than the younger people but that is a small minority of older fans as for the darker side to elvis i am fine with it it was part of who he was and part of his life and i am open to most revelations about elvis but a fan is a fan no matter what the age ,gender,religon elvis can reach out to all people and his life and music all make up the person that we are a fan of and i love the older fans cos they know what its like to have been there or who have seen elvis and they teach us things and ell great storys and i like to see other young fans

[SeeSeeRider777]

I am in the minority with being young and loving Elvis' music. All my friends dont like him, my ex girlfriends couldnt stand him, and the girl I am seeing now "says" she doesnt like him. But I think she is lying. When Burning Love was playing in my car, she was tapping her fingers and following the beat, so maybe, just maybe there is another addition to the Elvis fan family. Anyways, I dont give a crap what anyone says, I am going to listen to my Elvis CD's and no one is going to stop me. They fail to realize that everyone copied Elvis and Elvis copied no one.

[cameron]

I've never heard any part of Elvis' life referred to as "the dark side" until I came here . His whole life has been fascinating to me as I read from where he came, how he was raised and what he accomplished.
Lots of sadness in his life for one so young. But, lots of happiness too.

Any person that loved Elvis for whatever reason ,is a fan to me. No matter what brought them to him in the first place.
Maybe, I don't shock too easily or feel I have to know every tiny bit about him. He was a human being and I accepted him for all he was. IMO, too many expected too much from him. He did the same of himself.

Sometimes, I think "the younger fans" know and love him better than anyone and they're not so quick to judge. ;)

[Lisarose]

I've certainly learned more than I thought there was to learn about Elvis. It doesn't change his talent as a singer. For me, nothing could do that - not even those hideous movie songs. I was surprised about the extent of his drug use, but not that he used drugs. So many musicians were using and dieing. I'm glad to learn that he appeals to younger people. That surprises me. I love watching my middle son when I listen to my Elvis music in the car. Sometimes he just puts in his earphones and listens to his IPod, sometimes I see him listening intgently - as if he's surprised that this music is Elvis and he's surprised that he likes it. He hates to admit that he enjoys this, but sometimes his curiousity gets the better of him and he has to ask me a question about Elvis. That is when it really gets interesting.

[hounddog]

I think Elvis like most of us had different sides of his personality that he showed to different people. Personally i think the real Elvis is elusive, i think he was quite guarded in revealing to much of himself and i think if he was alive he'd be a tad pi***d at all the people he trusted writing about him in such detail.

"Are those fans who were around when Elvis was alive less tolerant of the revelations than the new?" Well sometimes i think yes and other times i think we're all just fans. I don't like having the term "real fan" "or "long term fan" being used at me. I've always been an Elvis fan i just might not know as much as some.

"Is there a generational view of how Elvis is percieved? Has this always been the case or a more recent issue." when Elvis first came on the scene the older generation didn't like him, he was criticised all the time, until he did his duty and went in the army, that's when it seems the press stopped beating him up so much. Now the press treat him like a dinoasur and talk mainly about his drug use. So i think it's mainly the press who is at fault for misinformation. Always have been most likely always will be.

"Is there room for both fans?" Course there is, i'm sure most fans that were around when Elvis first started are really impressed young kids still like his music. I get amazed when my niece and nephew sing along to Elvis songs (they're 10 and 8)

"Who will guide the fans of the future?" Most likely other fans, i think it's always been that way i know it's been other fans that have helped me source things and learn things i don't think that will change.

[hounddog]

I think Elvis like most of us had different sides of his personality that he showed to different people. Personally i think the real Elvis is elusive, i think he was quite guarded in revealing to much of himself and i think if he was alive he'd be a tad pi***d at all the people he trusted writing about him in such detail.

"Are those fans who were around when Elvis was alive less tolerant of the revelations than the new?" Well sometimes i think yes and other times i think no we're all just fans trying to understand Elvis. I don't like having the term "real fan" "or "long term fan" being used at me. I've always been an Elvis fan i just might not know as much as some.

"Is there a generational view of how Elvis is percieved? Has this always been the case or a more recent issue." when Elvis first came on the scene the older generation didn't like him, he was criticised all the time, until he did his duty and went in the army, that's when it seems the press stopped beating him up so much. Now the press treat him like a dinoasur and talk mainly about his drug use. So i think it's mainly the press who is at fault for misinformation. Always have been most likely always will be.

"Is there room for both fans?" Course there is, i'm sure most fans that were around when Elvis first started are really impressed young kids still like his music. I get amazed when my niece and nephew sing along to Elvis songs (they're 10 and 8)

"Who will guide the fans of the future?" Most likely other fans, i think it's always been that way i know it's been other fans that have helped me source things and learn things i don't think that will change.

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

Great comments hounddog (y)

[TotallyInsane]

I don't believe in true fans or not so true fans. I do believe, however, that the fans have changed. Back in the day when Rosanne and I were pen pals - we both had about 50 pen pals each. We exchanged information, sent each other pictures and all got to hear about when each other saw him. Everyone was happy for each other and the bickering just didn't occur back then. Nobody called anybody a liar because Elvis did something they had never heard or seen him do or nobody got mad because someone had a different view of something.
It seems to me over the past 31 years it has become somewhat of a competitive sport and everyone has to prove everything or you're called a liar. There's no such thing as taking someone's word for it anymore. I guess this would be from all the tall tales that been told over the years and different people believing different things. Just because it hasn't been written in a book doesn't mean it's not true.
I and others who did have the priviledge of seeing him do not appreciate someone telling us what we saw or heard simply because someone has watched some 8mm videos. The videos tell part of the story but being there told the whole story. I do not feel like I'm better than the ones that didn't get to see him - quite the contrary I feel sorry for anyone who did not get to experience him live. You simply cannot understand the feelings you got when he walked into the room.
I am truly glad there are younger fans still discovering him to this day. I was there since the first candlelight vigil and at the 2nd and 3rd candlelight we talked about how many more people seem to be coming - we thought it might last for 5 years before it died out. At the 10th we were truly amazed. At the 15th we couldn't believe it. I spoke at the 25th and looking out to 50,000??? fans with candles was nothing but overwhelming. Graceland did not start the vigil - Elvis Country Fan Club did. The reason it was started so people would not forget. Once it got too large to handle - EPE stepped in and you see where it is today. In my opinion, had it not been the determination of the fans for him to remembered - things may have been so very different today.
I just Elvis fans could share information like we use to without being called liars or totally insane!

[cameron]

I don't believe in true fans or not so true fans. I do believe, however, that the fans have changed. Back in the day when Rosanne and I were pen pals - we both had about 50 pen pals each. We exchanged information, sent each other pictures and all got to hear about when each other saw him. Everyone was happy for each other and the bickering just didn't occur back then. Nobody called anybody a liar because Elvis did something they had never heard or seen him do or nobody got mad because someone had a different view of something. It seems to me over the past 31 years it has become somewhat of a competitive sport and everyone has to prove everything or you're called a liar. There's no such thing as taking someone's word for it anymore. I guess this would be from all the tall tales that been told over the years and different people believing different things. Just because it hasn't been written in a book doesn't mean it's not true.I and others who did have the priviledge of seeing him do not appreciate someone telling us what we saw or heard simply because someone has watched some 8mm videos. The videos tell part of the story but being there told the whole story. I do not feel like I'm better than the ones that didn't get to see him - quite the contrary I feel sorry for anyone who did not get to experience him live. You simply cannot understand the feelings you got when he walked into the room.
I am truly glad there are younger fans still discovering him to this day. I was there since the first candlelight vigil and at the 2nd and 3rd candlelight we talked about how many more people seem to be coming - we thought it might last for 5 years before it died out. At the 10th we were truly amazed. At the 15th we couldn't believe it. I spoke at the 25th and looking out to 50,000??? fans with candles was nothing but overwhelming. Graceland did not start the vigil - Elvis Country Fan Club did. The reason it was started so people would not forget. Once it got too large to handle - EPE stepped in and you see where it is today. In my opinion, had it not been the determination of the fans for him to remembered - things may have been so very different today.
I just Elvis fans could share information like we use to without being called liars or totally insane!

How can anyone disagree with common sense like this ?
Tell it, Gail ! (y)

[jak]

I don't believe in true fans or not so true fans. I do believe, however, that the fans have changed. Back in the day when Rosanne and I were pen pals - we both had about 50 pen pals each. We exchanged information, sent each other pictures and all got to hear about when each other saw him. Everyone was happy for each other and the bickering just didn't occur back then. Nobody called anybody a liar because Elvis did something they had never heard or seen him do or nobody got mad because someone had a different view of something.
It seems to me over the past 31 years it has become somewhat of a competitive sport and everyone has to prove everything or you're called a liar. There's no such thing as taking someone's word for it anymore. I guess this would be from all the tall tales that been told over the years and different people believing different things. Just because it hasn't been written in a book doesn't mean it's not true.
I and others who did have the priviledge of seeing him do not appreciate someone telling us what we saw or heard simply because someone has watched some 8mm videos. The videos tell part of the story but being there told the whole story. I do not feel like I'm better than the ones that didn't get to see him - quite the contrary I feel sorry for anyone who did not get to experience him live. You simply cannot understand the feelings you got when he walked into the room.
I am truly glad there are younger fans still discovering him to this day. I was there since the first candlelight vigil and at the 2nd and 3rd candlelight we talked about how many more people seem to be coming - we thought it might last for 5 years before it died out. At the 10th we were truly amazed. At the 15th we couldn't believe it. I spoke at the 25th and looking out to 50,000??? fans with candles was nothing but overwhelming. Graceland did not start the vigil - Elvis Country Fan Club did. The reason it was started so people would not forget. Once it got too large to handle - EPE stepped in and you see where it is today. In my opinion, had it not been the determination of the fans for him to remembered - things may have been so very different today.
I just Elvis fans could share information like we use to without being called liars or totally insane!

One of the best posts I've read in a long time.I started going to the vigil the 3rd year.I've been around 20 times.Personally I think it's depressing the way things have gone in the Elvis world.I think it was better earlier on.Everybody now just has their hand out.The what's in it for me crowd.I can remember when the fans just wanted to share Elvis with everyone because it was almost like you belonged in an exclusive club if you were a fan.Everything just seemed more good natured back then and more fun than it is now.It was almost like a brotherhood.I was lucky enough to join the fan clubs back in the early 70's.I was surrounded by hardcore fans from an early age.I will say those fans were different.The ones who were there when Elvis was around are owed a big thanks IMO.They kept it going all these years.When those of us are gone that were contemporaries of Elvis things will greatly change.I think the passion will be gone.

[TotallyInsane]

One of the best posts I've read in a long time.I started going to the vigil the 3rd year.I've been around 20 times.Personally I think it's depressing the way things have gone in the Elvis world.I think it was better earlier on.Everybody now just has their hand out.The what's in it for me crowd.I can remember when the fans just wanted to share Elvis with everyone because it was almost like you belonged in an exclusive club if you were a fan.Everything just seemed more good natured back then and more fun than it is now.It was almost like a brotherhood.I was lucky enough to join the fan clubs back in the early 70's.I was surrounded by hardcore fans from an early age.I will say those fans were different.The ones who were there when Elvis was around are owed a big thanks IMO.They kept it going all these years.When those of us are gone that were contemporaries of Elvis things will greatly change.I think the passion will be gone.

My new best friend!!! You understand what I'm trying to say!!!!!!

[TotallyInsane]

How can anyone disagree with common sense like this ?
Tell it, Gail ! (y)

Cameron - it's just my honest feelings! I'm glad you understand!!

[Diane]

Thank you both Gail and Jak for your great posts...I agree 100%.

Diane

[Tony Trout]

Believe me, Goldmans book was much worse !! With the help of another "Elvis friend." Lamar Fike.


Fike only provided research for that book. Goldman already had it in his mind (IMO) of what he was going to write 'bout Elvis......

Lamar had nothing to do with the trash that appeared in that book.

[cameron]

Fike only provided research for that book. Goldman already had it in his mind (IMO) of what he was going to write 'bout Elvis......

Lamar had nothing to do with the trash that appeared in that book.

Whatever you think, Tony. ;)

[Tony Trout]

Whatever you think, Tony. ;)

He has admitted that he only did the research for the book. Goldman already (in my mind) knew what he was goin' to say about Elvis.

Take it for what it's worth. I'm not goin' to argue cuz I don't feel like it, Cameron.

[cameron]

He has admitted that he only did the research for the book. Goldman already (in my mind) knew what he was goin' to say about Elvis.

Take it for what it's worth. I'm not goin' to argue cuz I don't feel like it, Cameron.

I'm not going to argue either. No sense in it.
Goldman got "his tales" from Lamar . You can think what you like.

[TotallyInsane]

I'm not going to argue either. No sense in it.
Goldman got "his tales" from Lamar . You can think what you like.

Have to agree with Cameron on this one!

[utmom2008]

I can remember when the fans just wanted to share Elvis with everyone because it was almost like you belonged in an exclusive club if you were a fan.Everything just seemed more good natured back then and more fun than it is now.It was almost like a brotherhood.I was lucky enough to join the fan clubs back in the early 70's.I was surrounded by hardcore fans from an early age.I will say those fans were different.The ones who were there when Elvis was around are owed a big thanks IMO.They kept it going all these years.When those of us are gone that were contemporaries of Elvis things will greatly change.I think the passion will be gone.

Outstanding post Jak!(y) I had not ever thought of it in that way, but you are right, it was almost like a secret brotherhood. Now it has almost become a dueling match. I think it will change as the years go by. Those of us that were lucky enough to have been there, up close and personal, know that there is a difference in what we were experiencing in that room as opposed to what we experience from a big screen. The bad thing is...at times we are almost hesitant to talk about what it was like..to BE THERE, IN PERSON, because there is always someone waiting around the corner to tell YOU what is WAS like. Want we want to say, but don't, is....I know what it was like, I was there, in person. As we get older the perception will change I think. There will always be fans, yes, but I can't help but think that one day the passion we felt for Elvis Presley will be gone.:supriced::blush::sad:

[utmom2008]

I can remember when the fans just wanted to share Elvis with everyone because it was almost like you belonged in an exclusive club if you were a fan.Everything just seemed more good natured back then and more fun than it is now.It was almost like a brotherhood.I was lucky enough to join the fan clubs back in the early 70's.I was surrounded by hardcore fans from an early age.I will say those fans were different.The ones who were there when Elvis was around are owed a big thanks IMO.They kept it going all these years.When those of us are gone that were contemporaries of Elvis things will greatly change.I think the passion will be gone.

Outstanding post Jak!(y) I had not ever thought of it in that way, but you are right, it was almost like a secret brotherhood. Now it has almost become a dueling match. I think it will change as the years go by. Those of us that were lucky enough to have been there, up close and personal, know that there is a difference in what we were experiencing in that room as opposed to what we experience from a big screen. The bad thing is...at times we are almost hesitant to talk about what it was like..to BE THERE, IN PERSON, because there is always someone waiting around the corner to tell YOU what is WAS like. What we want to say, but don't, is....I know what it was like, I was there, in person. As we get older the perception will change I think. There will always be fans, yes, but I can't help but think that one day the passion we felt for Elvis Presley will be gone.:supriced::blush::sad:

[EnigmaticSun]

(i'm 43) it's just like me trying to listen to Bing Crosby. I was never into his music style.

Ah, that's funny! I enjoy listening to Bing Crosby, he had a voice and style spelling q-u-a-l-i-t-y. I'm pretty young, but I prefer him over Frank Sinatra.

To me Elvis seems like a man who could combine classy musicianship, vocal quality and elegance, comparable to Bing Crosby, with the raw and electrifying vigorous power of various styles from the South.

[SleepyJack]

I think that Elvis himself would be amazed to find that he still has so many fans in 2008!.........I always have to chuckle when you hear him voice his concerns about his future as an entertainer in his army days and on his return,I think he really had serious doubts about how long more it would last.......If he only knew!!
One way or another there will always be someone somewhere discovering the magic of that voice.I agree with those of you who are a little tired of the people who treat Elvis more as a college course and fight each other for the "Most knowledgable award" every time anyone says anything.In my opinion Elvis was,almost always,about fun!

[EnigmaticSun]

treat Elvis more as a college course and fight each other ..

I suppose it's all part of survival of the fittest Elvis fans and this justifies it. But we don't have to like it.

[cameron]

Originally Posted by SleepyJack
treat Elvis more as a college course and fight each other ..

When it ceases to be fun--it's not about Elvis, IMO. :'(

[kathy parkinson]

Agree 100% with you.

[Merry]

I don't believe in true fans or not so true fans. I do believe, however, that the fans have changed. Back in the day when Rosanne and I were pen pals - we both had about 50 pen pals each. We exchanged information, sent each other pictures and all got to hear about when each other saw him. Everyone was happy for each other and the bickering just didn't occur back then. Nobody called anybody a liar because Elvis did something they had never heard or seen him do or nobody got mad because someone had a different view of something.
It seems to me over the past 31 years it has become somewhat of a competitive sport and everyone has to prove everything or you're called a liar. There's no such thing as taking someone's word for it anymore. I guess this would be from all the tall tales that been told over the years and different people believing different things. Just because it hasn't been written in a book doesn't mean it's not true.
I and others who did have the priviledge of seeing him do not appreciate someone telling us what we saw or heard simply because someone has watched some 8mm videos. The videos tell part of the story but being there told the whole story. I do not feel like I'm better than the ones that didn't get to see him - quite the contrary I feel sorry for anyone who did not get to experience him live. You simply cannot understand the feelings you got when he walked into the room.
I am truly glad there are younger fans still discovering him to this day. I was there since the first candlelight vigil and at the 2nd and 3rd candlelight we talked about how many more people seem to be coming - we thought it might last for 5 years before it died out. At the 10th we were truly amazed. At the 15th we couldn't believe it. I spoke at the 25th and looking out to 50,000??? fans with candles was nothing but overwhelming. Graceland did not start the vigil - Elvis Country Fan Club did. The reason it was started so people would not forget. Once it got too large to handle - EPE stepped in and you see where it is today. In my opinion, had it not been the determination of the fans for him to remembered - things may have been so very different today.
I just Elvis fans could share information like we use to without being called liars or totally insane!



Hugs Gail.

The biggest compliment I can give you.

Love,
Kim

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

I suppose there is an element on naivety about the 60's and 70's that has been totally stripped away over the years, a kinship that took place with fans having to send letters and correspond in a more intimate way than sitting behind a computer screen?

I am happy that there is an on-line community but back in the 80's when I used to have fan friends in the UK, I used to write often and it seemed more personal to write letters and yes swap things! There were people back then who were out for a quick buck... I don't think that will ever change.

I just wish that there were still magazines like '25 Years The king' and 'Elvisly Yours' out there that cater for fans :'(

[hounddog]

Is Elvis monthly still going? I used to get Elvisly Yours every so often and i have the 10 volume series of 25 years the king. i agree they were great. I agree with the comments about some fans being a bit competitve and i don't understand it, i put it down to that's just how they are about most things, so why should Elvis be any different.

I was only 6 when Elvis died but i was a fan. i became friends with a fan when i was 14 who was close around 40 and he was wonderful he told me how Elvis' music hit in 1956 in Australia. He also gave me copies of albums, we starting sharing books, he'd lend me one I'd lend him one it was great.

It is the fans and will always be the fans that keep Elvis going. Yes EPE is there and all the movies and music ect are readily available but it is the fans that recommend a rarer tracks or an outtake that just blows you away.

I appreciate every kindness a fan has shown me, and i try to in some way to return that kindness. I think on the whole 99% are the same way

All we have are each others memories and how Elvis touched and continues not only touch us but how amazing it is that others are still learning how great he was.

[Broussey]

I've never heard any part of Elvis' life referred to as "the dark side" until I came here . His whole life has been fascinating to me as I read from where he came, how he was raised and what he accomplished.
Lots of sadness in his life for one so young. But, lots of happiness too.

Any person that loved Elvis for whatever reason ,is a fan to me. No matter what brought them to him in the first place.
Maybe, I don't shock too easily or feel I have to know every tiny bit about him. He was a human being and I accepted him for all he was. IMO, too many expected too much from him. He did the same of himself.

Sometimes, I think "the younger fans" know and love him better than anyone and they're not so quick to judge. ;)




:notworthy:notworthy:notworthy:notworthy:notworthy :notworthy:notworthy So true so true .... Not to say the older ones dont love him as much but they grew up with this image of him as a perfect person as for me i grew up with all his faults.....

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

Is Elvis monthly still going?

Not sure really, I have about ten or so years worth of copies, all in my mums loft... I stopped collecting when the stories got repetitive!


it is the fans that recommend a rarer tracks or an outtake that just blows you away.

You got that right, there are some people on here who have put me on the road to some awesome outtakes.

[Cryogenic]

Some interesting, thoughtful questions here ........ but they're also very provoactive questions, really. Answering one way or the other could open up an entire can of worms factory. The best thing to say is that everyone is a fan in their own way ........... however, I don't think you can ever be a fan of the man behind the music ...... unless you study and embrace it all. You don't have to like every last era or thing Elvis did, but understanding can only begin when you're dealing with the full spectrum of a life well lived.

[utmom2008]

I suppose there is an element on naivety about the 60's and 70's that has been totally stripped away over the years, a kinship that took place with fans having to send letters and correspond in a more intimate way than sitting behind a computer screen?


Gail and I both agree that had the internet been around back in the good ole days...we probably would have dropped out of school around the 8th grade.:lmfao: But....you are right about that being an innocent time. Even knowing what I know today, if I had the chance to do it again, I wouldn't change one single thing. To give you an idea of just how innocent things were back then...when EWH came out in 08/77 and Elvis died 2 weeks later, there still was not a connection that his death had anything at all to do with drugs. That revelation came in the fall of of 1979 when ABC had a brand new "news" program called 20/20 and a young beginner in the investigative team named Geraldo Rivera. He absolutely "blew the lid off of everyone's top". I remember that night as clearly as if it were yesterday. I was a newlywed, and my husband and I were at my parent's home that night. When it was over..the 4 of us were literally speechless. That night on 20/20 is talked about a good bit in the book "The Death of Elvis". I won't ever forget the pharmacist that locked himself in the bathroom..with Geraldo standing outside the door pestering him. Needless to say....we ALL were stunned that night. With all the emotions that went through my head....the thought of ever loving him less because of it never entered my mind. :sad::sad::sad: :wub:

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

...... but understanding can only begin when you're dealing with the full spectrum of a life well lived.

I agree with 99.9% of what you have said :) but it occurred to me that Elvis probably had a very sheltered existence due to who he was. So he perhaps didn't have a well lived life as perhaps as some might think? perhaps there could be a perspective thing going on :hmm:

[midnight]

I also watched that 20/20 that night in 1979. It was so upsetting and shocking. Yet it made me realize how much his fans meant to him. How he could hide his problems from his fans for so long and go on that stage night after night in the condition he was in. In the end it was not Elvis controlling the drugs , the drugs were controlling Elvis. It is hard to imagine trying to disguise your life from the world. I can`t even imagine how tormented his life had to be. I will never forget the heading in one of the newspapers in 1977. " A Lonely Life Ends on Elvis Presley Blvd".

[cameron]

I saw the 20/20 thing on TV.
Didn't pay much attention back then, because I never liked Geraldo.
He was too cocky for me and never gave anyone a chance to speak if they didn't agree with him. It's all on YouTube today. Don't see Geraldo any different now. I DO like Charlie Thompson though. IMO, Thompson and Cole did a heck of a job in their investigation...even though I didn't agree with all they wrote either .

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

Gail and I both agree that had the internet been around back in the good ole days...we probably would have dropped out of school around the 8th grade.:lmfao: But....you are right about that being an innocent time. Even knowing what I know today, if I had the chance to do it again, I wouldn't change one single thing. To give you an idea of just how innocent things were back then...when EWH came out in 08/77 and Elvis died 2 weeks later, there still was not a connection that his death had anything at all to do with drugs. That revelation came in the fall of of 1979 when ABC had a brand new "news" program called 20/20 and a young beginner in the investigative team named Geraldo Rivera. He absolutely "blew the lid off of everyone's top". I remember that night as clearly as if it were yesterday. I was a newlywed, and my husband and I were at my parent's home that night. When it was over..the 4 of us were literally speechless. That night on 20/20 is talked about a good bit in the book "The Death of Elvis". I won't ever forget the pharmacist that locked himself in the bathroom..with Geraldo standing outside the door pestering him. Needless to say....we ALL were stunned that night. With all the emotions that went through my head....the thought of ever loving him less because of it never entered my mind. :sad::sad::sad: :wub:

I suppose for the fans who were there during the 60's and 70's it was a complete revelation that their hero was caught up in a lifestyle completely at odds with that of the Colonels propaganda machine. In some respects I can understand why the older fans can be more guarded about Elvis, however the younger fans have had it all laid bare and perhaps have come from a generation that doesn't feel the need to protect Elvis in the same way!

Heroes come in all shapes and sizes and have all manner of predilections, this either draws you in, or repels you. What causes problems IMO is that some see those who discuss flaws as the devil himself (shrinks back from the coming onslaught)......

[Cryogenic]

I agree with 99.9% of what you have said :) but it occurred to me that Elvis probably had a very sheltered existence due to who he was. So he perhaps didn't have a well lived life as perhaps as some might think? perhaps there could be a perspective thing going on :hmm:

It's definitely a matter of perspective. Even though there were many things that Elvis missed out on or didn't pursue, I don't think he'd want people feeling sorry for him or making that sort of declaration. There was a sorrow at the core of his being, which seemed to pour out of him in the 70's, and yet, he accepted who he was and the life he led.

[cameron]

IMO, I've found people that were there in the 60's and '70's that were well aware of Elvis and all his "faults". That never meant they denied them, only that they worried about him , prayed for him and cared too much to splash it all over the papers or write a book. ;)

And, no---IMO, he'd never want anyone to feel sorry for him.
Just love him for who he was and what he was able to give.

[utmom2008]

It is hard to imagine trying to disguise your life from the world. I can`t even imagine how tormented his life had to be. I will never forget the heading in one of the newspapers in 1977. " A Lonely Life Ends on Elvis Presley Blvd".

We were just talking about that headline over in another thread. I bought an original copy of one off of Ebay not long ago. It was the headline in the Memphis paper on the morning of the 17th. IMO...that was much more meaningful than some of the other papers around the world that used 4 inch letters to say The King Is Dead.:blush::blush:


I suppose for the fans who were there during the 60's and 70's it was a complete revelation that their hero was caught up in a lifestyle completely at odds with that of the Colonels propaganda machine. In some respects I can understand why the older fans can be more guarded about Elvis, however the younger fans have had it all laid bare and perhaps have come from a generation that doesn't feel the need to protect Elvis in the same way!

Yes, the younger fans have grown up with the knowledge..it's already a part of the story. Another reason that maybe some of the younger fans don't think that much about it is because they have heard it all their life..along with hearing about every other entertainer's drug problems as well. Today it's an assumption that entertainers and rehab go hand-in-hand.:blush::blink::blush::blink:

[Tommy]

As you know I have been a fan from the very beginning of Elvis' career, there is nothing holy or mystical about Elvis' life, we just don't know unless you were close to the man. I don't believe Elvis tried to disguised what he was or did either.

I never was into finding deep meaning for Elvis' personality. I love his voice and the way he sang a song. It's just that simple for me, and no one since has come close to the way he could take a song and make it his own and his interpretation was something extraordinary!

He was a kind man, that made him special, it came across for me in all he did for others and his fans.

[Diane]

Love your post Tommy and it mirrors my feelings exactly. (y)

Diane

[Tommy]

Love your post Tommy and it mirrors my feelings exactly. (y)

Diane

Thank you Diane(y)

[cameron]

As you know I have been a fan from the very beginning of Elvis' career, there is nothing holy or mystical about Elvis' life, we just don't know unless you were close to the man. I don't believe Elvis tried to disguised what he was or did either.

I never was into finding deep meaning for Elvis' personality. I love his voice and the way he sang a song. It's just that simple for me, and no one since has come close to the way he could take a song and make it his own and his interpretation was something extraordinary!

He was a kind man, that made him special, it came across for me in all he did for others and his fans.

Well, I'd have to agree with this. ;)
I'm old enough, I could have been there from the beginning, but I wasn't.
Have met several that lived through it all.
No, they don't think he was "mystical " or "holy" either .
Just a man they greatly admired with a special voice.
His kindness and love for his fans was expressed in many ways.
They just loved him for himself. Some followed him from one concert to another.Attended some of his parties, etc. To that end, I guess you could say, they were some of his best friends and biggest supporters .

[kathy parkinson]

Agree with you Tommy, i too have been a fan since the beginning, it's always been about the music for me, still is,everything else about him i can take or leave, that's why i don't post much, the music is all that matters.

[EnigmaticSun]

So is it wrong to say there might have been some God-given aspect to his presence on earth, without dehumanizing him?

[The King's Queen]

I think that Elvis himself would be amazed to find that he still has so many fans in 2008!.........I always have to chuckle when you hear him voice his concerns about his future as an entertainer in his army days and on his return,I think he really had serious doubts about how long more it would last.......If he only knew!!
One way or another there will always be someone somewhere discovering the magic of that voice.I agree with those of you who are a little tired of the people who treat Elvis more as a college course and fight each other for the "Most knowledgable award" every time anyone says anything.In my opinion Elvis was,almost always,about fun!

Jack...GREAT POST!!! :notworthy You are my hero for the day....:lmfao: (y) You are 100% right...some just make it a trivia challenge...managing to memorize every single date and time, as if it really matters.:doh: In the end, the only dates that matter are the dates written on his stone at Graceland...because the line in between those dates represents what precious little time he spent here, and how he touched so many in such a short amount of time is amazing!


I suppose for the fans who were there during the 60's and 70's it was a complete revelation that their hero was caught up in a lifestyle completely at odds with that of the Colonels propaganda machine. In some respects I can understand why the older fans can be more guarded about Elvis, however the younger fans have had it all laid bare and perhaps have come from a generation that doesn't feel the need to protect Elvis in the same way!
Heroes come in all shapes and sizes and have all manner of predilections, this either draws you in, or repels you. What causes problems IMO is that some see those who discuss flaws as the devil himself (shrinks back from the coming onslaught)......

Very true words Matt...and yes, this explains the guarded, overprotectiveness of some of us who are, indeed, in the "older fans" bracket! ;) Does that mean that we deny his problems??? NO. But I do think that in some ways it bothers us more to know that he was going through all of this while we were (for the most part) completely unaware of a real problem. Today, people just accept that superstars will have drug issues. It's considered almost "nothing" for them to act irrational. It's almost a given these days. :doh: No one really gives it as much thought...and if they do, it will only be a fleeting thing. For example... My daughter got on the Britney Spears wagon when it first left the station. Not surprising that after one TV appearance, which was touted as her "clean" debut, all was forgiven and forgotten. Even the tabloids have given her praise unending for resuming her Motherly duties! :doh::blink: Now...I ask you...why does Elvis not get the same forgiveness??? Seems almost as if his "dirty laundry" never makes it to the washing machine! While every other entertainer is afforded the luxury of being forgiven for their addictions and shortcomings. This I do not understand....:mad:

[cameron]

Jack...GREAT POST!!! :notworthy You are my hero for the day....:lmfao: (y) You are 100% right...some just make it a trivia challenge...managing to memorize every single date and time, as if it really matters.:doh: In the end, the only dates that matter are the dates written on his stone at Graceland...because the line in between those dates represents what precious little time he spent here, and how he touched so many in such a short amount of time is amazing!



Very true words Matt...and yes, this explains the guarded, overprotectiveness of some of us who are, indeed, in the "older fans" bracket! ;) Does that mean that we deny his problems??? NO. But I do think that in some ways it bothers us more to know that he was going through all of this while we were (for the most part) completely unaware of a real problem. Today, people just accept that superstars will have drug issues. It's considered almost "nothing" for them to act irrational. It's almost a given these days. :doh: No one really gives it as much thought...and if they do, it will only be a fleeting thing. For example... My daughter got on the Britney Spears wagon when it first left the station. Not surprising that after one TV appearance, which was touted as her "clean" debut, all was forgiven and forgotten. Even the tabloids have given her praise unending for resuming her Motherly duties! :doh::blink: Now...I ask you...why does Elvis not get the same forgiveness??? Seems almost as if his "dirty laundry" never makes it to the washing machine! While every other entertainer is afforded the luxury of being forgiven for their addictions and shortcomings. This I do not understand....:mad:

Very well said. I agree wholeheartedly. (y)

[cameron]

So is it wrong to say there might have been some God-given aspect to his presence on earth, without dehumanizing him?

Inasmuch as I believe that we're all here for a purpose;
I think Elvis was here at the "right time" and did exactly what he was meant to do. He changed a lot of lives and helped a lot of people.
His kindness and humanity is still well known .

How we screw up our personal lives has nothing to do with the other, IMO.
None should be judged unless it affects you personally.
Only then does one have the right to forgive or not.

[EnigmaticSun]

Thanks Cameron. This is truly insightful. I've just sent you a friend request, since you're consequently not negative enough.

Some posts here give me that feeling one would get after eating a spoonful of Drano. Sure it cleans you out, but it'll leave you hollow inside.

[cameron]

Thanks Cameron. This is truly insightful. I've just sent you a friend request, since you're consequently not negative enough.
Some posts here give me that feeling one would get after eating a spoonful of Drano. Sure it cleans you out, but it'll leave you hollow inside.
It's a good thing you told me.
For some reason, I never notice those things.:blink:
Yep, I'd have to agree about the Draino. :P

[Diane]

There seems to be a lot of extremes on how fans perceive Elvis. Some are drawn to the negative side of his life for whatever reason and some refuse to see it.

My personal feeling is to see the negative and recognize that it is there but not to dwell on it as what has it to do with what he gave us in the end?

So what if the last few years weren't up to par? The good years he did give us has lived on for over 30 years so I should think that is what he should be remembered for. I still think his private life was his business. I don't care if he was a big celebrity like no other, he was still a human being who had that right along with the rest of us just because he was a human being.

Diane

[presley31]

There seems to be a lot of extremes on how fans perceive Elvis. Some are drawn to the negative side of his life for whatever reason and some refuse to see it.

My personal feeling is to see the negative and recognize that it is there but not to dwell on it as what has it to do with what he gave us in the end?

So what if the last few years weren't up to par? The good years he did give us has lived on for over 30 years so I should think that is what he should be remembered for. I still think his private life was his business. I don't care if he was a big celebrity like no other, he was still a human being who had that right along with the rest of us just because he was a human being.

Diane

i agree diane(y)(y) Elvis will never be any different in the my eyes and his faults well thats something l admire in him cause it goes to show you that elvis was just like you and me and he was simply a human. I accept the whole package and nothing will ever change;)

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

Yes, the younger fans have grown up with the knowledge..it's already a part of the story. Another reason that maybe some of the younger fans don't think that much about it is because they have heard it all their life..along with hearing about every other entertainer's drug problems as well. Today it's an assumption that entertainers and rehab go hand-in-hand.:blush::blink::blush::blink:

Agreed, rehab is seen as a passage of rights these days, justifying ones lack of self control and bad behavior. As if all sins are forgiven.
I suppose if the end result is that lives are saved we should be grateful for small mercy's..


So is it wrong to say there might have been some God-given aspect to his presence on earth, without dehumanizing him?

IMO no it isn't wrong, but be careful, there are some here who dislike the topic of religion brought up ;)


There seems to be a lot of extremes on how fans perceive Elvis. Some are drawn to the negative side of his life for whatever reason and some refuse to see it.

My personal feeling is to see the negative and recognize that it is there but not to dwell on it as what has it to do with what he gave us in the end?

So what if the last few years weren't up to par? The good years he did give us has lived on for over 30 years so I should think that is what he should be remembered for. I still think his private life was his business. I don't care if he was a big celebrity like no other, he was still a human being who had that right along with the rest of us just because he was a human being.

Diane

Great post (y)


i agree diane(y)(y) Elvis will never be any different in the my eyes and his faults well thats something l admire in him cause it goes to show you that elvis was just like you and me and he was simply a human. I accept the whole package and nothing will ever change;)

To me Elvis was more than one entertainer! He was 50's Elvis, He was 60's Elvis & finally 70's Elvis, something for everyone. IMO Elvis was a chameleon, changing his style every decade reinventing himself numerous times. People are always going to have a preference as to what decade was their favorite.

[EnigmaticSun]

IMO no it isn't wrong, but be careful, there are some here who dislike the topic of religion brought up

I found your remark about Elvis having for something for everyone truly useful.

I'm sorry about bringing up religion. I suppose it's just like mentioning the war. I mentioned it once but I think I got away with it all right.

It's hard to agree on something that concerns Elvis. Whereas with Hitler we all agree he was most the evil man that ever lived, it's more complicated with our guy.

On another board (BillyGilmanFans) they tell the visitors and members to be "Billy's fan" which means endless praising even to the cost of living a lie - but here it's usually about the following: his relationship with his mother was kinda disturbing.. he wasn't academically educated.. he wasn't faithful to his lady.. drugs.. he could get angry at times.. he found no way out of Las Vegas or Hollywood.. was controlled by Parker.. he died.. and so on!

Did that make Britain great? The answer is a definite no. I may have said before that gratitude is more important than me disagreeing or not understanding any action he may have taken during the course of his life.

[john carpenter]

Have to agree with Cameron on this one!

I agree Totally with Cameron and Gail.

[KPM]

I suppose there is an element on naivety about the 60's and 70's that has been totally stripped away over the years, a kinship that took place with fans having to send letters and correspond in a more intimate way than sitting behind a computer screen?
I am happy that there is an on-line community but back in the 80's when I used to have fan friends in the UK, I used to write often and it seemed more personal to write letters and yes swap things! There were people back then who were out for a quick buck... I don't think that will ever change.

I just wish that there were still magazines like '25 Years The king' and 'Elvisly Yours' out there that cater for fans :'(
Call me old-but thats how I see it. In the mid 60s I belonged to a couple fan clubs and the handwritten letter now seems special. To think someone actually took the time to buy a stamp, write you, send you a copy of a picture you did not have or a local papers news article. Now its all so easy, push "send" its there. People told you who they were and sent you pictures-now some do that on the net and others are hiding behind the screen name and you have no idea who they really are.

[TotallyInsane]

Call me old-but thats how I see it. In the mid 60s I belonged to a couple fan clubs and the handwritten letter now seems special. To think someone actually took the time to buy a stamp, write you, send you a copy of a picture you did not have or a local papers news article. Now its all so easy, push "send" its there. People told you who they were and sent you pictures-now some do that on the net and others are hiding behind the screen name and you have no idea who they really are.

Amen on this one!!!

[Diane]

Very definitely!!!!!! These new fangled machines make it really easy for some to play some very nasty little games. I want to think that they are in the minority as I've made some really special friends on this site that I will never forget. I ignore the rest unless I or a friend is specifically targeted, then I'll go all out and hang the consequences.....mama tiger instincts.:)

Diane

[littlesister3]

Very true words Matt...and yes, this explains the guarded, overprotectiveness of some of us who are, indeed, in the "older fans" bracket! ;) Does that mean that we deny his problems??? NO. But I do think that in some ways it bothers us more to know that he was going through all of this while we were (for the most part) completely unaware of a real problem. Today, people just accept that superstars will have drug issues. It's considered almost "nothing" for them to act irrational. It's almost a given these days. :doh: No one really gives it as much thought...and if they do, it will only be a fleeting thing. For example... My daughter got on the Britney Spears wagon when it first left the station. Not surprising that after one TV appearance, which was touted as her "clean" debut, all was forgiven and forgotten. Even the tabloids have given her praise unending for resuming her Motherly duties! :doh::blink: Now...I ask you...why does Elvis not get the same forgiveness??? Seems almost as if his "dirty laundry" never makes it to the washing machine! While every other entertainer is afforded the luxury of being forgiven for their addictions and shortcomings. This I do not understand....:mad: [/QUOTE]


I agree! I was actually just talking to a group of people about this. They called Elvis a drugatic and say he had talent but got fat and abused his body with his habits. Then they say what happened to Chris Farley was so sad and that it was a real shame because he was so young. I don't understand why they consider his death sad (I agree that it was, he was so young and funny! I love the old SNLs with him) but they say Elvis had it coming because of his habits. Also, as a "younger fan" I've seen people view Elvis as a "drugatic" but the stars today are people who just have problems that go along with fame. They can forgive stars today, why not Elvis?

I'm not sure if this is off-topic but I have a question for the fans who were around when Elvis was alive. I always remember knowing about his drug habit and I sometimes forget that while he was alive his fans didn't know this. I was just wondering how you found out ( I know Geraldo was mentioned) and how you felt about it, and how people reacted (both fans and non- fans) I was just curious.

[rhythmknights]

Elvis a drugatic and say he had talent but got fat and abused his body with his habits. Then they say what happened to Chris Farley was so sad and that it was a real shame because he was so young. I don't understand why they consider his death sad (I agree that it was, he was so young and funny! I love the old SNLs with him) but they say Elvis had it coming because of his habits. Also, as a "younger fan" I've seen people view Elvis as a "drugatic" but the stars today are people who just have problems that go along with fame. They can forgive stars today, why not Elvis?



maybe because it's already accepted that Elvis' death was a bad thing or that he deserved what he got. i don't think that they know much else about Elvis to give him a fair shot. i mean, they know they he was the beginning of rock 'n roll, but then most of the 'kids' i talk to about Elvis say he sold out. they don't know about his famous comeback, about his later great stuff from the 70's. they don't know what a kind and good human being he was [prolly, because he didn't want anyone to know that he was a great humanitarian.] all they know is he got fat and wore jumpsuits and o.d. on the pot. it's not fair, but most things in life don't always seem to be fair.

[Unchained Melody]

They fail to realize that everyone copied Elvis and Elvis copied no one.

True people copied copied Elvis once he hit the big time, but Elvis was highly influenced by other artists' as well. He took a bit of everyone and made it into his own thing.

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

Elvis did sell out :supriced: As shocking as people will think that statement is, he did, if he hadn't, he wouldn't have been the huge star that he was. I believe that the Colonel was partly responsible because he knew that as big as rock 'n' roll was it would only last for so long and then die out.. to have longevity Elvis had to broaden his appeal. With the looks and talent that Elvis had the movies was a natural progression.

Personally I like the music Elvis did in the late 60's best of all so I'm glad he sold out :P

[jak]

Elvis did sell out :supriced: As shocking as people will think that statement is, he did, if he hadn't, he wouldn't have been the huge star that he was. I believe that the Colonel was partly responsible because he knew that as big as rock 'n' roll was it would only last for so long and then die out.. to have longevity Elvis had to broaden his appeal. With the looks and talent that Elvis had the movies was a natural progression.

Personally I like the music Elvis did in the late 60's best of all so I'm glad he sold out :P

Im not sure Im glad Elvis sold out but I know the point youre making.I think Elvis himself was more concerned with financial security rather than growing as an artist.Particulary later on.With his background I think that's understandable.I think that attitude and philosophy steered him in certain directions because of financial gain.

[Unchained Melody]

Im not sure Im glad Elvis sold out but I know the point youre making.I think Elvis himself was more concerned with financial security rather than growing as an artist.Particulary later on.With his background I think that's understandable.I think that attitude and philosophy steered him in certain directions because of financial gain.

As that was the only reason he was touring the last atleast two years of his life was for the income!!

[jak]

As that was the only reason he was touring the last atleast two years of his life was for the income!!

In the 60's Elvis had a good income from the films.It was easy money and it was steady.Hence no live shows.If Elvis wanted to express himself musically during this period of soundtracks he could have peformed live.This was the main focus of my post.
You are correct though about the reasons behind the constant touring.Touring was basically the lions share of his income.His record sales were way down and the live shows were keeping him afloat financially.Elvis made very poor financial moves and he paid for it the last few years.He couldnt have stopped touring even if he wanted to.

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

Im not sure Im glad Elvis sold[/COLOR] out but I know the point youre making.I think Elvis himself was more concerned with financial security rather than growing as an artist.Particulary later on.With his background I think that's understandable.I think that attitude and philosophy steered him in certain directions because of financial gain.


In the 60's Elvis had a good income from the films.It was easy money and it was steady.Hence no live shows.If Elvis wanted to express himself musically during this period of soundtracks he could have peformed live.This was the main focus of my post.
You are correct though about the reasons behind the constant touring.Touring was basically the lions share of his income.His record sales were way down and the live shows were keeping him afloat financially.Elvis made very poor financial moves and he paid for it the last few years.He couldnt have stopped touring even if he wanted to.

This and the fact the Colonel had just as many debts through gambling which skewed his view of Elvis' failing career.
The sad truth is both these individuals became dependent on the touring through mismanaging large sums of cash they thought was limitless. In the end Elvis' mental and physical health paid the price.