Talk:Elvis Presley

Archives

Wow I just archived this page and I realized that there is an arbitrary and inconsistent system for naming the archives. I suggest that someone with the wherewithal standardize them per WP:ARCHIVE. Also, it's probably a good idea to archive this page before it gets to 388 kb. —Justin (koavf)❤T☮C☺M☯ 07:24, 15 June 2008 (UTC)

Disambiguation

Does anyone object to me moving the "Elvis" redirect page to the disambiguation page? Pasta of Muppets (talk) 03:22, 19 June 2008 (UTC)

Yes. There is only one other Elvis that I know of, "Elvis Costello" who wasn't even mentioned in the disambigouous page until I added him, but most people think of Presley when hearing the word Elvis. Half of the links on that page are about Elvis Presley, and the others are for the most part trivia. Bytebear (talk) 17:42, 19 June 2008 (UTC)

<nowiki>Insert non-formatted text here</nowiki>== Recent changes ==

ELVIS IS BESTES

There appears to be a blob in the date of death of Elvis Preslet. Someone has put in in as January 7, 1977 when it should be 16 August 1977. Thanks SuperTriviaGuy —Preceding unsigned comment added by SuperTriviaGuy (talk • contribs) 07:12, 16 July 2008 (UTC)

Comments re my changes, and other suggestions, welcome. 'Bout time this article was upgraded? Rikstar (talk) 19:50, 20 June 2008 (UTC)

Thanks for your recent changes. They are indeed improvements. But what about the fourth draft of the first section? See the last paragraphs of this discussion. Onefortyone (talk) 12:21, 21 June 2008 (UTC)

The reason why I think nothing has happened with the fourth draft of the first section is because editors have not been happy with the inclusion of Gladys Presley's drinking being mentioned twice in this article. Gladys Presley's drinking seemed to progress as Presley's fame grew,along with her intake of diet pills. The one liner of Gladys Love Smith became an alcoholic is perhaps a little harsh and warrants a little more explanation. Billy Smith: "She was taking diet pills,and she was drinking. She tried hard to hide it from Elvis,but she couldn't."

Marty Lacker: "Elvis knew his mother drank. He knew everything. Even if he wasn't with her." Billy Smith: "As a teenager,I could tell when she was inebriated. But she stayed in her room. She was not one to openly drink,not even with family. I guess because she didn't want to be like the rest of them. I wouldn't necessarily call her an alcoholic. Now,my daddy was closer to being an alcoholic than she was. The biggest majority of the time she would go without it,but it seemed like when she got worried,she clung to that real quick." Lamar Fike: "Right before we left for the service,Gladys was getting bloated. The menopause was driving her absolutely screwloose,and she'd take those amphitamines,and she'd wash 'em down with beer. One minute she'd be happy,and the next minute she'd be a raving maniac. And she would be hot one minute,cold the next". Billy Smith: "One reason Aunt Gladys took the diet pills was because she wanted to look good for Elvis in her pictures. She didn't want Elvis to be embarrassed by her size. And Colonel was all the time telling her how to dress,and how to act in public." Source: "Elvis and the Memphis Mafia" by Alana Nash p.132--Jaye9 (talk) 05:55, 23 June 2008 (UTC)

I'm disappointed more people haven't been involved in LaraLove's original wiki project. Months ago, there was no agreement on the Early Years with the few editors who were involved, and this was just the first section!! I think the same disagreements will re-emerge, judging by Jaye9's views. Since then I've tried to improve the section as it stands and I think it reads 'OK', as is the length; there isn't another Presley article linked to this particular section, so the need to shorten it because of a link is redundant. I think the Burnette quote is interesting and relevant (something I was prepared to cut at one point).Rikstar (talk) 06:10, 25 June 2008 (UTC)

That more people haven't been involved in the project clearly shows that, except for some fans and very few reliable contributors, most people are not very interested in the life of Elvis. Many vandals also frequently endeavor to ridicule Elvis. Onefortyone (talk) 15:33, 29 June 2008 (UTC)

"Clearly shows"?? What is just as likely, if not more so, is that potential editors have been put off by the editing habits and talkpage contributions of certain editors. I have as evidence the comments of friends, colleagues and my wife who have all said as much.Rikstar (talk) 16:20, 29 June 2008 (UTC)

In his article, "Getting today's teens all shook up over Elvis", Woody Baird says, "Teenagers in the 1950s and '60s went wild over Elvis Presley, much to the consternation of their parents, but kids in the new millennium aren't so stirred by rock 'n' roll's original rebel. 'I can't try to sell somebody Elvis who doesn't know who he is ... that he's not just some guy who's been gone for 30 years,' said Paul Jankowski, chief of marketing for Elvis Presley Enterprises Inc." This is why "the multimillion dollar Elvis business" thinks that it is necessary "to show up more film clips, photos and other material from the vast Presley archives online. 'We will take our MySpace page and we will focus on expanding our number of friends on MySpace, that kind of thing,' Jankowski said..." However, Baird concludes, "Moving Elvis content online should be easy; making Elvis cool again will be more difficult. After all, for most kids, Elvis is the music of their parents' - or grandparents' - generation." This clearly suggests that nowadays Elvis isn't as popular as he once was, and therefore most people of the younger generation (i.e. the majority of contributors to Wikipedia) are not very interested in being involved in a wiki project concerning the King of Rock 'n' Roll. In twenty years or so, when our "grandparents' " generation of Elvis fans would have become extinct, EPE and its money-maker, Graceland, will get big problems, that's for sure. Onefortyone (talk) 17:17, 30 June 2008 (UTC)

I'd like to contibute to this "subthread"...When someone becomes curious about something or someone, either through choice or because they had an "assignment" in the case of young people, they often end up in Wikipedia. Those of us who have obviously spent many hours learning about what many people would consider irrelevent or obscure subjects have a opportunity to share what we have learned with those who have less time or motivation than we do. All of the information should be "out there", but what should be HERE, in this article. I cannot remember seeing Elvis in the 50s, but after viewing his early appearances, I have to say they are electric, and I can see what the fuss was about. And where Elvis came from gives insight into America of the 1940s and 1950s. WE have a shot at giving anyone who comes here an accurate, unbiased, "verifiable" glimpse of Elvis and that world. I for one want FACTS more that interpretation or opinion. And there are plenty of facts about Elivs. What facts are important, and which aren't, given the limits of space are not easy to agree on. And, there are always new people coming along, bringing up the same things we have (kinda sorta) resolved at one time; if only to agree to a truce. I'd have to say that if you aren't interested in accurately documenting the past for the present and the future, this is not the place to be. Steve Pastor (talk) 19:41, 30 June 2008 (UTC)

I agree with this. I was born way after many things that I now appreciate. I know teenagers who have have discovered Sinatra, Leonard Cohen, Johnny Cash and Presley in only the last few years.Rikstar (talk) 20:06, 30 June 2008 (UTC)

Yes,LaraLove tried very hard to get this article into some kind of order and for her efforts was a very welcoming breath of fresh air. Sadly,she no longer is contributing to this article,which is such a shame,as she was a real asset towards it's improvement.

My intention is not to hold this article up,but if I think that something sounds a little left field,I will say something about it.

In the main article (Early Life) it reads,Priscilla Presley recalls her as "a surreptitious drinker and alcoholic"[15] source Presley,p172 Which book is that? I went to the book "Elvis and Me" by Priscilla Beaulieu Presley p172 coincidently,this page in it's entirety does talk about Gladys,however there is no mention about Glady's drinking or being an alcoholic,nor does she mention Gladys being an alcoholic at all in her autobiography.

In the fourth draft of the first section,it says "Gladys Love Smith(April 25,1912 - August 14,1958) who became an alcoholic was voluble,lively,full fo spunk,"[5],excuse my ignorance,but what is [5] in reference to,does it have any connection to what Priscilla Presley supposedly said from the souce taken from the main article. It just seems out of character for Priscilla Presley to say anything like this. As a rule,she comes across as very guarded,you would even say at times sounding scripted.

Of all the books and documentaries I have read and seen on Presley and there have been quite a few,occassionly the subject of Gladys Presley's drinking has been mentioned,as far as her beeing described as an alcoholic,I have only heard this once and that is from the Wikipedia article.--Jaye9 (talk) 10:00, 28 June 2008 (UTC)

Elvis is still Alive. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 69.250.10.214 (talk) 15:47, 18 October 2008 (UTC)

"Though Gladys sank deep into depression in latter years,her basic despostion was always fun-loving,even a little manic,like that of her famous son."

"Gladys was a worker; Vernon was a shirker. Gladys was an ebullient extrovert; Vernon was always upright and distrustful."

"Sometimes,in the evenings,it was obvious that Gladys was drunk. Her voice would glide up into a foolish falsetto; her speech would be badly slurred. Elvis hated to see his mother drunk." (period 1958 when they lived in Killeen)

"Gladys Presley was a women of very unhealthy habits and temperment. She was grossly overweight from improper diet. She never got any exercise. She drank to the point of drunkness but never confessed this to her doctor. The most sinister ingrediant in her self-destructive way of life was the sonsumption of diet pills. Gladys had started using these amphetamive compound years before and increased their usage as she became increasingly dependent on them. It was said in her family that she was ashamed of her obesity and wanted to improve her appearence,especially when Elvis became famous and photographies were constantly taking her picture and printing it in magazines and newspapers. Eventually the amphetamines were bound to have deleterious effect,if not on her body,then on her mind. Extreme irritability of the sort which Gladys displayed in the final months of her life is a typical of amphitamine abuse." p79,81,346,349 "Elvis" by Albert Goldman (paperback)

Even the highly critical Albert Goldman doesn't even mention her being an alcoholic and clearly attributes her increase of her pill intake as being a contributing factor to her premature death at just 46,not unlike her son just 19 years latter at just 42. Perhaps it would be more suited mentioning this in the "Military service and mothers death section." Just a thought. Apart from this, how the "Early Years" section on the main page raads at the moment is fine with me.--Jaye9 (talk) 13:14, 28 June 2008 (UTC)

Well, lots of working class people drink beers on the weekend, or even in the evening after a long day. The "Early Years" section is about just that. There were no diet pills, blah, blah, blah, at that time. "Foreshadowing", or telling what happens a decade or two later doesn't seem appropriate. The article is about Elvis. Not Gladys. Some of us just plain got worn out with having the same arguments over and over again. Steve Pastor (talk) 23:18, 28 June 2008 (UTC)

Concerning the alleged quotes from Priscilla’s book about Gladys’s drinking habits, could it be that there are different editions of Elvis and Me? The other quote mentioning that Gladys was "full of spunk" is from Peter Guralnick's biography, not from Priscilla's Elvis and Me. To my mind, it is important to mention in the first section that Gladys had drinking problems already in her younger years. However, we don't need the questionable quote from Priscilla's book, as this discussion of February 2008 shows:

Believe it or not, this new version of the fourth draft is shorter than the second draft:

Presley's father, Vernon (April 10, 1916–June 26, 1979) was a malingerer, averse to work and responsibility. He had several low-paying jobs, including sharecropper and truck driver. His mother, Gladys Love Smith (April 25, 1912–August 14, 1958), was "voluble, lively, full of spunk," and had alcohol problems. She worked as a sewing machine operator. They met in Tupelo, Mississippi, and were married in Pontotoc County on June 17, 1933.

Presley was born in East Tupelo, the second of identical twins (his brother was stillborn). As an only child he was "unusually close to his mother." The family lived in a two room house just above the poverty line.Template:Fn In 1938, Vernon Presley was jailed for a check forgery. The absence of his father "had a profound effect upon Elvis' emotional development".

At age ten, Presley won second prize in a singing contest at the Mississippi-Alabama Fair and Dairy Show for his rendition of Red Foley's "Old Shep".

In 1946, Presley got his first guitar. In November 1948, the family moved to Memphis, Tennessee, allegedly because Vernon had to escape the law for transporting bootleg liquor. At school, Presley was bullied for being different, a stutterer and "a mama's boy." At L. C. Humes High School, he was viewed as "a sad, shy, not especially attractive boy"; some students made fun of him for playing "trashy" hillbilly music.

In 1949, the family lived at a public housing development in one of Memphis' poorer sections. Presley practiced playing guitar in a five-piece band with other tenants. He occasionally worked evenings to boost the family income, and began to grow his sideburns and dress in the wild, flashy clothes of Lansky Brothers on Beale Street. He stood out, especially in the conservative Deep South of the 1950s, and he was mocked for it. Despite any unpopularity, Presley won as a contestant in his school's 1952 "Annual Minstrel Show" singing "Cold Cold Icy Fingers" and "Till I Waltz Again With You".

After graduation, Presley was still rather shy and “more comfortable just sitting there with a guitar than trying to talk to you." His third job was driving a truck for the Crown Electric Company. Like his fellow drivers, he began wearing his hair longer with a "ducktail".

Any comments? Onefortyone (talk) 20:46, 11 February 2008 (UTC)

Is there a reference for when her alcohol issues began? Lara❤Love 22:36, 11 February 2008 (UTC)

Yes, there are several references. I did some further research. Here are some sources:

• Kathleen Tracy, Elvis Presley: A Biography (2006) says, "While Vernon was serving his time in prison, Gladys found solace in Elvis and, increasingly, in drinking. Even though she drank in private, her bloodshot eyes and the lingering aroma of stale liquor gave her away. She also began missing work..." (p. 17). The author adds (p.23) that those who were like Gladys "owed their extra weight to drinking or avoiding field work. Alcohol was cheap; food might be hard to come by, but one could always find a drink."
• According to Jane Ellen Wayne's chapter on Elvis Presley in her book, The Leading Men of MGM (2006), in younger years "she also enjoyed an occasional night out drinking and dancing" (p.368). The author also mentions that "Gladys and Vernon were both heavy drinkers" (p.373) and that "Gladys took Benzedrine and consumed vodka to excess to ease the pain of loneliness" (p.377).
• Rex Mansfield, Elisabeth Mansfield and Zoe Terrill write in their book, Sergeant Presley: Our Untold Story of Elvis' Missing Years (2002): "she had a weight problem (Gladys had been taking diet pills on and off for some time) and a drinking problem." (p.54)
• J. G. Ballard says that "despite her own well-developed taste for drugs and alcohol, Gladys seems to have offered Presley rock-like support throughout her short life." See J. G. Ballard, A User's Guide to the Millennium: Essays and Reviews (1997), p.39.

There are many more references of this kind. Other sources deal with her liver problems caused by drinking heavily for many years. See, for instance, Elaine Dundy's chapter on "The Death of Gladys" in Elvis and Gladys. Onefortyone (talk) 00:38, 12 February 2008 (UTC)

Some further sources. When Gladys's friends and co-workers collected some money for her shortly after the birth of Elvis, Elaine Dundy says, they were warned: "Don't give it to her in money." " He'll only drink it up." (p.10) Bobbie Ann Mason, Elvis Presley (2002), writes about the young couple (p.9): "I think of Elvis's parents, Vernon and Gladys, as a pair of cutups — teasing, playing cards, drinking beer, dancing." Connie Kirchberg and Marc Hendrickx add in their book, Elvis Presley, Richard Nixon, and the American Dream (p.62): "Like Gladys, Grandma Presley was known to enjoy a drink or two..." Interestingly, the Presleys did not talk about their drinking habits. According to Larry Geller and Joel Spector, If I Can Dream: Elvis' Own Story (1989), p.46, "Some people ... suggested that Gladys drank then, but if Elvis knew, it was his secret. He occasionally remarked about 'the drinkers' in his extended family, and he detested drunks. Elvis did say that Gladys would have an occasional beer, but that was all." Onefortyone (talk) 00:44, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

Elaine Dundy says about Gladys alcoholism, "She was drinking a lot. At the end she was drinking all the time. Vodka. Where'd she get it from? Vernon — he give it to her. Just to keep her quiet." (p.294) In addition, here is Dundy's statement about Elvis's father: Vernon "didn't work very hard or very steadily. ... He had been known all his young life as a 'jellybean' – by definition weak, spineless, and work-shy." (p.10) Onefortyone (talk) 00:24, 14 February 2008 (UTC)

I support this version with the first reference provided above to back the statement of her drinking and Rikstar's additional of their elopement. Lara❤Love 01:51, 12 February 2008 (UTC)

So do I - let's have some clear preferences noted on here!--Egghead06 (talk) 08:05, 12 February 2008 (UTC)

I concur, absolutely, unequivocally. Except for the omission of the Johnny Burnette quote, but I'm not gonna let that get in the way of this article's progress. Rikstar (talk) 09:57, 12 February 2008 (UTC)

These are clear statements. However, Rikstar may add the Burnette quote as he thinks it is "interesting and relevant." Onefortyone (talk) 15:24, 29 June 2008 (UTC)

Ancestry - again

Early years is a mess at the moment because of changes. I deliberately got rid of the "German, Welsh, French, Eskimo, Venusian", etc. - style of list because it was beginning to read like a boring shopping list. This infomation is rightly included, but in the footnotes. Having a tedious list at the start of the article doesn't look good. I suggest a return to simply stating in the main text that he "was of mixed ancestry". If it gets any more mixed, stick the details in the footnotes. Rikstar (talk) 08:37, 11 July 2008 (UTC)

Again, for what isn't, but sure feels like, the umpteenth time, I agree. Steve Pastor (talk) 17:20, 11 July 2008 (UTC) HI!!!

Hi and thanks, Steve, and to ElvisFan1981 for making the changes. Rikstar (talk) 08:27, 12 July 2008 (UTC)

The Presley family came to America from Germany in the 18 century. Originally the family name was Pressler, and they were a Sinti family also known as the 'Black Dutch'. Elvis' mother Gladys Love mith was likely to have been a Romanichal. Therefore Elvis Presley's ancestry was European Gypsy. This may go some way in explaining Elvis Presley's Asian looks and musiccal talent. (Gypsy Roma Traveller History Month Magazine, June 2008, www.grthm.co.uk ) —Preceding unsigned comment added by 86.161.56.118 (talk) 10:30, 16 July 2008 (UTC)

Elvis Aaron Presley, in the humblest of circumstances, was born to Vernon and Gladys Presley in a two-room house in Tupelo, Mississippi on January 8, 1935. His twin brother, Jessie Garon, was stillborn, leaving Elvis to grow up as an only child. He and his parents moved to Memphis, Tennessee in 1948, and Elvis graduated from Humes High School there in 1953. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 70.45.160.149 (talk) 05:19, 18 July 2008 (UTC)

I can't think of anything more disturbing that the thought of Wikipedia bowing to racial prejudice.

I'm sorry sir, but I do not agree with sweeping information under the rug - palatable or not. No clearer justification for this can be shown than racism. The underpinnings of Wikipedia is the improvement of human knowledge. Racism divides us; it limits our thinking.

Besides, if it is controversial, then it is of note. If it is of note, then Wikipedia should include it, and do so proportionally to the importance to the topic (obviously it is extremely important in this case or people would not be so motivated to manipulate it). If it is verifiable information it should be included period. If it is changed 600 times, especially in the case of racial prejudice, then it should be corrected 601 times. Sooner or later somebody will come along and post that information again anyway. Throwing our hands up in disgust or cowering away from facing up to the responsibility of Wikipedia to prevent wrong or biased information from being disseminated in its name shouldn't even be given a second thought. I certainly realize the difficulty, but work important to human progress is rarely easy.

I would suggest putting a disclaimer on the page that information has been removed because it upsets some people, but it would significantly reduce my respect for Wikipedia if that were to occur.

I'll end my rant there, but this greatly troubles me. I won't change the page until I have 100% verifiable, undeniable evidence of everything I post on this page, but assuming I can obtain that proof I will change the page to reflect the facts. I hope and expect that the people most involved with editing this page will jealously guard those facts from being removed, as this is important knowledge for all of us - changing it 601 times if necessary. Webjedi (talk) 16:51, 9 August 2008 (UTC)

Hi Webjedi. Please pardon my ignorance (perhaps you are referring to something that happened or was discussed before I started here) but would you be so kind as to explain in a little more detail what has upset you so much? I'd hate to think something within this article is inaccurate, and I'd be even more horrified if something within this article was offensive to anyone. Also, it would be easier for me to monitor what is upsetting if I knew what it was. ElvisFan1981 (talk) 17:05, 9 August 2008 (UTC)

See Talk Archive 23. In July I read this article and saw that the fact that he was Jewish was left out even though other components of his ancestry were listed and yet there was a reference at the bottom of the page Entitled Elvis's Jewish Roots. Furthermore, he was part Native American. A Jewish Native American! In other words, he was a good 'ole American mutt (most of us are). There aren't many people in history that have made such an impact as he did. Few (if any) have the power to contribute to social understanding 30 years post mortem. Certainly there are no other Native American Jews that have fundamentally changed an entire society.

I incorrectly connected the reasoning on that page with the removal of my edit. Going back through, I now see my change was removed due to construction of the article. Nevertheless the original reference was removed for desire to be rid of controversy. Apparently there are still many people that refuse to accept he was not 100% WASP. I don't want to accuse people of being racist but when you have an article being vandalized or edit wars going on there is something behind it. I simply feel Wikipedia has a responsibility to be an engine of social progress, and leaving out the fact that one of the greatest icons in our nation's history was so racially diverse is sidestepping that duty. —Preceding unsigned comment added by W3bj3d1 (talk • contribs) 17:59, 9 August 2008 (UTC)

I've added a new reference that backs up the claims he was of Jewish heritage. I noticed in at least one of the previous references it was mentioned, but the one I've added is primarily about that subject. From what I understand, the term "mixed ancestry" was used to remove the listy feel of every nationality and religion Elvis was. There are plenty of references linked to that, however, and each read is quite detailed and informative. Perhaps, if others felt it was a good idea, you could begin a section on his diverse backgrounds? I know that I find it fascinating that Elvis had such a wide and varied ancestry, and must admit that I don't know too much about it. ElvisFan1981 (talk) 18:51, 9 August 2008 (UTC)

I concur, it should be topic of further exploration. Not just that he was Jewish, but that he was mixed in the true 'melting pot' style of America. If there is anything uniquely American, it is Elvis; and I think for all those who preach against "racial impurity" it goes to show how very wrong they are.

BTW, in order to be considered Jewish a person has to come from an unbroken line of female Jews going back to before the time of the Roman Empire. Jews account for something like .02% of World population. American Indians are about 1/4 that number making up ~.005% of World population. If I'm doing my math right that means he had <1 in 80,000 chance of being included in those two lines of ancestry simultaneously (though that doesn't account for entropy due to the his proximity to the full-blooded Native American lineage). —Preceding unsigned comment added by W3bj3d1 (talk • contribs) 03:40, 10 August 2008 (UTC)

Early Life

From the Early Life segment; "In 1938, he was jailed for an eight dollar check forgery. During his absence, his wife, described as "voluble, lively, full of spunk", lost the family home. Priscilla Presley recalls her as "a surreptitious drinker and alcoholic." Does the line in bold really have to be in this section? As I was reading it I felt it just didn't fit in at all with the previous two sentences. Perhaps it is important to the article somewhere, but I don't know if this is the right place for it. Would it be ok to either move or remove this line? ElvisFan1981 (talk) 13:56, 19 July 2008 (UTC)

I and others agreed about this in a previous discussion, so I have removed the Priscilla quote, but added the fact that Gladys did drink around this time. Rikstar (talk) 21:18, 19 July 2008 (UTC)

Many thanks. ElvisFan1981 (talk) 21:25, 19 July 2008 (UTC)

Part of Early Life section from the main artcle it reads: "During his absence,his wife-"voluble,lively,full of spunk" and having a fondness for drink-lost the family home. She and her son moved in with Vernon's parents."

To me it reads as though Glady's fondness for drink caused her to lose the family home,perhaps if it read without Vernon's income was the cause of them loosing the family home. Also,Gladys and her son did infact move in with Vernon's parents,but only for a very brief time and infact stayed with her cousins. Here's what Gurlanick wrote: "During the brief time that he was in Prison,Gladys lost the house and moved in briefly with her in-laws next door. There was no love lost between Gladys and Jessie,though,and soon mother and child moved to Tupelo,where Gladys lived with her cousins Frank & Leona Richards on Maple Street and got a job at the Mid-South Laundry."

"Vernon,Traves and Lether Gable were released from jail on February 6,1939,in response to a community petition,and a letter from Orville Bean requesting sentence suspension. The Presley's continues to live with Glady's cousins for a brief time." Source: "Last Train to Memphis" p.14 & 15 by Peter Guralnick

Hope I'm not appearing to "A...Retentive" about this,just thought it looked a little odd,that's all.--Jaye9 (talk) 01:29, 21 July 2008 (UTC)

Thanks for the information Jaye. I've edited the article appropriately, and actually removed the drink remark as I couldn't find a suitable place to fit it in after my edit. If anyone can reword it slightly to fit it back in then I wouldn't object. ElvisFan1981 (talk) 06:54, 21 July 2008 (UTC)

I have reincluded the remark relating to Gladys's drinking problem, as it is of some importance. Onefortyone (talk) 23:35, 22 July 2008 (UTC)

Recent changes

Quite a lot of significant additions are being made lately. It might be an idea to discuss such changes on the talkpage to ensure things are necessary and run smoothly. ElvisFan 1981, Hi! Cannot contact you on your own talkpage as you are still not registered. You have made many references using the following: "ref name=Stanley-19>Stanley and Coffey, p.95</ref". The number 19 should be the same as the page no., in this example, 95. As things stand all information from the Stanley book you have cited appears to be on page 19, when you click on the footnote numbers. I like a lot of the edits you have made, but we need to keep a dialogue going about them. I'm gonna clean up where I think we need to make things more concise.Rikstar (talk) 23:50, 19 July 2008 (UTC)

I've corrected most of the Stanley refs: I must be bored...Rikstar (talk) 01:00, 20 July 2008 (UTC)

Sorry about that, I didn't realise that both numbers had to change, but I will remember for the next time. I greatly appreciate you making the changes, thank you. I hope no one feels any of the information I added last night is irrelevant. Elvis did so much in his life that it's difficult sometimes to know exactly what is and what isn't interesting enough for an encyclopaedia, but I tried my best to stick to fairly important stuff. I felt the heading The 1970's needed more than just a couple of paragraphs, and certainly a little more detail. I came to the decision that it would be nice to see a little breakdown of the main things Elvis got up to between 1970 and 1977. I got up to 1972 and I felt it flowed quite well into the Priscilla divorce and then Aloha. My overall view is to pick up from just after Aloha with a section titled 1974-1977 (perhaps even just 1972-1976, which will flow nicely into Final Year and Death?), adding information that is important enough to be included, rather than rushing straight to his weight problems and death after 1973.

Most of '74-'77 was touring, but a few of the things I think should be included are (Please discuss if necessary);

• Illness that affected his Las Vegas engagements and tours, possibly hospital stays, too.
• The A Star is Born incident with Barbra Streisand.
• The firing of Red West, Sonny West and David Hebler, and the book which they eventually released, Elvis: What Happened?.
• The CBS filming of his last tour and the subsequent TV Special, Elvis in Concert.
• The last days, death and funeral.

Some of these things are sure to appear at other points of the article, but I think mentioning them in the '74-'77 section would keep a good time-line within the article. Anything that is mentioned later in greater detail could be linked to via this section. There are maybe a few things others would like to add to it (and the '70-'72 section) and all suggestions are welcome. Also, if anyone feels something shouldn't be included then we can discuss that too. From now on I won't make any massive changes to the article without discussing them in here first. I hope that no one objects too much to my suggestions, but I am open to any ideas. ElvisFan1981 (talk) 07:52, 20 July 2008 (UTC)

Thanks for your reply. Learning the wiki 'language', like regarding referencing can be slow and a pain; we're both learnin'! I agree that the things you mention could be added or fleshed out, and a 1972-1976 section would be useful, leading to the existing Final Year and Death. I think touring and concert dates need keeping to a minimum - a previous version of this article listed nearly EVERY tour and read like a telephone book. Make sure you include links to footnotes where necessary; I removed the "grudging" quote about Love Me Tender as it wasn't referenced, but it also duplicated stuff that is in the Acting career section. Rikstar (talk) 09:47, 20 July 2008 (UTC)

I agree that tour dates shouldn't really be emphasized in the article unless they are of importance. I'd suggest just writing "Presley toured through most of (month) before.....(Whatever the next big event is)" instead of listing every single date of the tour. I'll try to work on a 1974-1976 section over the week when I get a spare minute and put it in here for discussion before adding it to the article. ElvisFan1981 (talk) 07:03, 21 July 2008 (UTC)

'74-'76 Section

This a rough idea for the opening of this section. I have tried to focus on important and/or interesting facts. I think a few of these things could be shortened in this section and perhaps lead to their own section, such as the book Elvis: What Happened?, and the fight which I think could maybe be mixed into a new section about threats on Presley's life, Charles Manson etc. I haven't added 1976 yet, but will do. Anyway, here goes;

As had become the norm for Presley, January 1974 began with a two-week engagement at the Hilton Hotel in Las Vegas. Critics noted that his vocals were strong, and he was clearly in better health, but that he wasn’t looking his best. In April, rumours started to circulate that he would be playing overseas. These rumours strengthened after Australia offered $1,000,000 for him to tour there, but Colonel Parker still wasn’t keen. Parker persuaded Presley that security wasn’t as good in other countries, and that there was no venues big enough for a star of his status in Europe. The people closest to Presley speculated amongst themselves the reasons for Parker's’ unwillingness to travel, but Presley himself accepted Parkers’ excuses, at least in the beginning.

On May 20, Presley’s bodyguards were involved in a fight with a drunk man outside Presley’s hotel suite. The man had been asked to leave the hallway, but became aggressive and began punching and kicking anyone near by. Presley was entertaining his daughter Lisa Marie at the time, and upon hearing the commotion outside, reached for his guns. This was during the Patty Hearst kidnapping, and, according to David Stanley, “Elvis feared for Lisa’s safety”. The incident resulted in a lawsuit against Sonny West, Dick Grob and David Stanley. Although not physically involved in the attack, Presley was also named on the lawsuit. It was resolved a year later with an out of court settlement, but Presley was not happy with the way Red West had conducted himself during the incident (he had punched the man while he was handcuffed). David Stanley recalled Presley telling him later that this was one of the reasons West would later be fired.

In January 1975, Presley cancelled his Las Vegas engagement due to his weight. His close friends were also concerned about the pills he was taking. At the end of January, Presley was admitted to Baptist Memorial Hospital for “tests”. The hospital released a statement saying Presley was there for a “general physical and treatment for a liver problem”, but in reality he was there to detox.

Presley had been approached by Barbra Streisand to appear in A Star is Born, but in March talks between Streisand and Colonel Parker had broken down. Presley had been thrilled at the prospect of doing a more dramatic film, but Parker wouldn’t allow it unless Presley had top-billing and was paid more. Streisand wouldn’t back down and the role eventually went to Kris Kristofferson. Presley was deeply disappointed, and he wasn’t afraid to show it.

On July 13, 1975, Vernon fired Red West, Sonny West and David Hebler as bodyguards. The three men were taken by surprise, especially Red and Sonny who had been with Presley since the beginning. Presley was out of town when it happened. Reasons for the firing were never really known, but according to David Stanley, the reason for their dismissal was probably the fact that they were becoming more outspoken in their confrontations with Presley over his drug dependency. Vernon was also getting tired of his son being sued, and paying out millions, over their fights. Red, Sonny and David would later write a book titled Elvis: What Happened? Released in August 1977, a few days before Presley’s death. In the book they wrote about their experiences with Presley, and in particular his drug dependency. They wrote the book hoping it would help Presley to fight his addictions.

ElvisFan1981 (talk) 19:21, 21 July 2008 (UTC)

Yep, I think these are valid inclusions. The Streisand thing is in the notes, so that can be used/deleted as necessary. Be interesting to read say Guralnick's take on the above incidents; is this proposed addition just from Stanley and Coffey? I have a feeling it might be a bit biased and that other authors might need to be consulted to check the interpretation of what happened, like regarding Presley's reputation during and after the fight. It may all be accurate, but some checking is needed and if accounts vary, both/all will need including. If that's a problem, maybe the incident should not be included. By the way, this quote: "could never be true to any one woman." in the divorce section has no reference. I think things are looking OK overall. You might wanna check out this if you haven't already: [1] Rikstar (talk) 04:15, 22 July 2008 (UTC)

At the moment the only reference I have is the Stanley/Coffey book. One of the reasons I put it in here first was for anyone to cross-reference them and we could iron out any differences before it was finally written into the article. I think the Stanley book is fairly accurate, he was a member of the Memphis Mafia and has access to Gracelands' inner records. He goes into great detail with regards to the "fight" and there is enough information there to write a full section on that alone. In fact, it was Stanley who was first pushed up against the wall by the drunk man, beginning the fight in the first place. Before I had read the Stanley book I was unaware of such a fight ever taking place, but part of me thinks that's because until the Stanley book, other Mafia members were discouraged from talking about it because it's a negative incident for a lot of them, including Elvis. WIth that in mind, it makes me tend to think the Stanley book is less biased because it does talk about things that other author's haven't included, for whatever reasons. I agree it's important to double check all references and keep a neutral viewpoint, though, so if anyone could cross-reference any of the above claims I'd appreciate it. With regards to Registration, I am a registered user, hence my username. I have a talk page[2] but no userpage as I didn't feel I needed one. I'm available on my talkpage if you'd rather discuss some things there. ElvisFan1981 (talk) 07:17, 22 July 2008 (UTC)

Do we really need this addition or all of these details in the Elvis article? I don't think so. To my mind, parts of the latter may be included in the Memphis Mafia article. Alternatively, we may create a new section on the violent behavior of Elvis and his guys, including information about Elvis's predilection for guns and the dangerous games they frequently played. For instance, Elvis was a gun enthusiast who used to shoot television sets when he was bored or when he saw something on TV that displeased him. A Walther PPK and a Magnum were part of the several guns he owned, along with M-16 rifles and machine guns. When Elvis and the Memphis Mafia rented the Rainbow Rollerdrome in Memphis they usually played a game called 'War', of which Elvis was the proud inventor. There were two teams, and the object of the game was to knock over as many members of the opposing team as possible by any means. Another game was called the 'Whip' game. Elvis's idea of an exciting game was that it should be as dangerous as possible. For the game that involved fireworks the guys bought thousands of skyrockets, baby giants, firecrackers, and chasers, which moved rapidly and unpredictably until they exploded. Since the emphasis was on large and potentially lethal fireworks, everyone had to wear air force jump-suits plus gloves, helmets, and goggles. When they were all dressed up, they divided themselves into Blue and Red teams, and started hurling fireworks at the other team. Elvis was left with a big scar on his neck from one firework, and one of his friends nearly lost an eye. Onefortyone (talk) 23:05, 22 July 2008 (UTC)

Do we really need this addition or all of these details in the Elvis article?

I think the bit about Presley's colour is very important, because it was a major part of his early career, and especially that song. The whole appeal of Presley was that he was a white singer that sounded black, and people who heard that song for the first time were eager to know if it was a white or a black singer. I also think the comment about the phone lines being jammed is a valid one because it highlights just how different the song was. Most people who listen to That's All Right don't understand it's appeal, today it sounds very tame, but at the time it was mind-blowing by all accounts. As for him playing it fourteen times, I think that's important because it highlights how quickly the song became popular. However, if you want to remove it all then please do, I won't be offended, I myself have removed some lines in the past. With regards to the rest of your point, I can understand where you are coming from about the fight bit being put into a Memphis Mafia section. I don't understand how any of the rest of it could be put into a section about the violent behaviour of Elvis and the guys. What does Vegas, hospital visits, Streisand and the firing of Red, Sonny and David have to do with their violent behaviour and games such as War? ElvisFan1981 (talk) 05:31, 23 July 2008 (UTC)

I'd like the bits mentioned above to remain for the reasons stated by ElvisFan1981. Rikstar (talk) 14:15, 26 July 2008 (UTC)

A separate section on Elvis and violence? I think not. Some stuff could be added to the Memphis Mafia article if it's new. However, it may well be that more detail may be too much, but that can be appraised here and when it crops up in the article - as can comparisons with other authors' interpretations. I'll probably make edits to trim or to make additions more concise, as I have been. If anyone disagrees, I'm sure they'll comment. I'm glad ElvisFan1981 (talk) is taking such an interest in this article - and they have a talk page (my mistake for not noticing). Rikstar (talk) 19:26, 24 July 2008 (UTC)

A proposed inclusion reads: "On May 20, Presley’s bodyguards were involved in a fight with a drunk man outside Presley’s hotel suite. The man had been asked to leave the hallway, but became aggressive and began punching and kicking anyone near by. Presley was entertaining his daughter Lisa Marie at the time, and upon hearing the commotion outside, reached for his guns. This was during the Patty Hearst kidnapping, and, according to David Stanley, “Elvis feared for Lisa’s safety”. The incident resulted in a lawsuit against Sonny West, Dick Grob and David Stanley. Although not physically involved in the attack, Presley was also named on the lawsuit. It was resolved a year later with an out of court settlement, but Presley was not happy with the way Red West had conducted himself during the incident (he had punched the man while he was handcuffed). David Stanley recalled Presley telling him later that this was one of the reasons West would later be fired."

According to Peter Guralnick and the complainant Presley witnessed this "fight", more like an assault, but did nothing to stop it. Four men held the man down, "and the rest beat him to a bloody pulp." As David Stanley was part of this, and the author of the above account, I think he might be a teeny bit biased in his own favour. Jerry Hopkins' book concurs with this.

I suggest: On May 20, Presley’s bodyguards were involved in an incident with a drunk man outside Presley’s hotel suite. The man had thrown breaker switches and several men followed by Presley poured into the darkened hallway. This was during the Patty Hearst kidnapping and, according to David Stanley, “Elvis feared for Lisa’s safety”, who was staying in the suite at the time. When the lighting was restored, four men including David Stanley, held the man while three others "beat him to a bloody pulp." The incident resulted in a lawsuit against Sonny West, Dick Grob and Stanley. Although not physically involved in the attack, Presley was also named on the lawsuit. It was resolved a year later with an out of court settlement. Presley was not happy with the way Red West had conducted himself during the incident, but fans who witnessed it claimed that Presley simply stood by doing nothing to stop the beating. David Stanley recalled Presley telling him later that this was one of the reasons West would later be fired. (citations to be added of course).

I think this anecdote is a good tie-in with the book West & co would publish. It could go in the Memphis Mafia article if needed; for this article it might need trimming a bit. Rikstar (talk) 13:00, 26 July 2008 (UTC)

I like the rewrite above. I'm torn now about whether to include it in the article, though. Part of me thinks it's important because it is one of the few noteworthy things Presley actually got involved in between 1974 and 1976 (Most of that time was touring), and it does bring a better understanding to the firing of West and co. Another part of me agrees it could be shortened, but each time I read it I struggle to decide which parts should be removed as I find it all important. Perhaps removing the line; Presley was not happy with the way Red West had conducted himself during the incident, but fans who witnessed it claimed that Presley simply stood by doing nothing to stop the beating. and just going straight from the settlement into David Stanley recalled Presley telling him later that Wests' aggressive beating of the man was one of the reasons he would later be fired. Possibly? —Preceding unsigned comment added by ElvisFan1981 (talk • contribs) 17:58, 27 July 2008 (UTC)

Multiple References

I have just added a couple of referenced notes to the article in the First Recordings section. I'm sorry, but I don't know how to make them all come under the one reference in the Ref Section similar to the Stanley books. If someone could teach me I'd be very grateful. ElvisFan1981 (talk) 18:34, 22 July 2008 (UTC)

After many attempts I finally fixed it. I feel quite proud of myself now! For anyone else who may need to learn in the future, I learnt from this page; http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:Footnotes . There are many useful Editing features in the Help section http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:Contents. ElvisFan1981 (talk) 22:11, 22 July 2008 (UTC)

Nice one, El! Rikstar (talk) 07:34, 25 July 2008 (UTC)

Chart statistics added by MHS1976

These comprehensive stats look impressive, but they add 40,000 bytes to the main article. It has been standard practice to put such stats in separate, linked articles (see 'Bob Dylan' for example). Such articles already exist in Presley's case. MHS1976's efforts may be an improvement and could replace current information. I have posted MHS about this, but if the stats are not moved, they should be deleted. Rikstar (talk) 10:16, 3 August 2008 (UTC)

For what it's worth, I agree that this part should be removed. It's very interesting to read, and it's clear that a lot of hard work has gone into it, but a biography article isn't the place for it. As Rik has said, it could be incorporated into the current hit singles page or even have a whole new article on its own (perhaps an Elvis U.S. Hit Singles page solely for the U.S. chart run). I think this article is looking great and is shaping very nicely into a very good biographical piece, in my opinion. :) ElvisFan1981 (talk) 21:36, 3 August 2008 (UTC)

Tour bus picture

Should I take a picture of a rundown Elvis tour bus parked along a nearby shed for this article? It's clearly labeled as a former Elvis tour bus. I think I should be able to take a clear picture from the rarely traveled road. Royalbroil 14:56, 7 August 2008 (UTC)

Yeah, snap away. Don't ferrget to tek the lens cap off. Rikstar (talk) 21:40, 7 August 2008 (UTC)

Luckily my camera doesn't have a lens cap! It won't happen for at least a half week. Royalbroil 02:33, 8 August 2008 (UTC)

Sure, after sitting there for decades, the owner decided to dismantle the bus! I took a picture of the partially destroyed bus and placed it on my flickr account [3] with a Creative Commons license if anyone wants to upload it. Royalbroil 05:50, 11 September 2008 (UTC)

Documentary

I would like to mention that the part about the documentary " Elvis on tour" is referring to the year 1971! Actually the movie was made in 1972 and also received the golden globe award in 1972! —Preceding unsigned comment added by Empireprolett (talk • contribs)

I'd like to mention that the original section had this information correct (http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Elvis_Presley&oldid=227191546#1970-1972) but with so many edits being made it is easy for some information to get removed, lost or just moved around by accident. Thanks for informing us that it's wrong again. ElvisFan1981 (talk) 19:07, 7 August 2008 (UTC)

The Beatles

I propose adding a new section: 'The "Fab Four" meet "The King"'. This could go after 'Acting career'. This was a rare meeting of two of the most influential acts in popular music, and deserves more than a passing mention. Editors have already discussed this to some extent. Rikstar (talk) 11:42, 9 August 2008 (UTC)

I have started this, but I'm sure there's more to add, before cleaning up. Rikstar (talk) 14:34, 9 August 2008 (UTC)

Great job on this section, Rik, it's looking very good and has added much to the article. Interestingly I notice on the Beatles page that they don't mention it at all. Their loss, in my opinion. I was thinking early on that we could ask in their discussion page if they wanted to help contribute some of their knowledge on the subject to our article (and vice versa), but if they haven't even mentioned it already, perhaps they don't have much more information about it. ElvisFan1981 (talk) 09:03, 17 August 2008 (UTC)

Elvis Presley's Middle Name

It states in the first sentence that Elvis Presleys name is Elvis Aaron Presley, and then it explains it is often spelt Aron, but i think it should be rectified that Elvis Presleys actual name is Elvis Aron Presley, because he is named Aron after his twin brother Garon who died at birth? Laurabrowne (talk) 22:08, 16 August 2008 (UTC)

Hi Laura, thanks for your query. It's quite confusing, but either spelling is right and either spelling is wrong. From elvis.com;

Elvis was named after his father, Vernon Elvis Presley, and Vernon's good friend in Tupelo, Aaron Kennedy. Aron was the spelling the Presley’s chose, either it was a spelling mistake or apparently to make it similar to the middle name of Elvis' stillborn identical twin, Jesse Garon Presley. Toward the end of his life, Elvis sought to change the spelling of his middle name to the traditional and biblical Aaron. In the process he learned that official state records had inexplicably listed it as Aaron, and not Aron as on his original birth records. Knowing Elvis' plans for his middle name, Aaron is the spelling his father chose for Elvis' tombstone, and it's the spelling his estate has designated as the official spelling when the middle name is used today.

So basically, Elvis himself, from all accounts, wanted the double A used, and his father and estate have respected his wishes and they have chosen it as the official spelling, which is clear on their official website when they use the name (see here elvis.com biography) Because the official spelling is Aaron, it's listed on wikipedia as his name. ElvisFan1981 (talk) 08:58, 17 August 2008 (UTC)

Anyone reading this article should click on the superscript letters or numbers. They guide people to an explanation or clarification of queried points. In this case, "a" points to the relevant clarification of why Elvis is listed as "Aaron". Rikstar (talk) 20:58, 17 August 2008 (UTC)

{{editsemiprotected}} Elvis's original middle name was Aron. On his birth certificate the doctor spelt it Aaron. Vernon Presley(Elvis's Father) was very upset with this and went through quite a bit to fix it. Please fix that. Rumors suggest that the reason why his middle name is spelt Aaron on his grave is either because they spelt it wrong and he is still alive, he wanted it spelt that way because thats how it is bibicaly spelt, or just because of a mistake(Very unlikely).

Anyone stating things like the above parargraph needs to cite reliable sources to support their assertions. The current version of the article does cite references for Elvis being Aaron. Rikstar (talk) 17:22, 18 August 2008 (UTC)

I've declined the above edit request. It seems that there's a good source for his middle name being Aaron, and it seems you didn't provide any source claiming that it's instead Aron. Verifiability, not truth, is what's used to determine what to include in an article in cases like this. Pyrospirit (talk · contribs) 18:37, 27 August 2008 (UTC)

My source is a book, called 'The Book of Useless Information', but i'm not sure just how reliable that is as a source. Then again, how reliable is Wikipedia, if the only people that can solve issues raised, such as this one, would be Elvis Presley himself, or his family.(Laurabrowne talk) 20:14, 18 September 2008 (UTC)

Army Rank

Presley was never a Staff Sergeant. He attained the rank of E-5 Sergeant and upon coming home had a personally tailored uniform that the tailor accidentally put E-6 stripes on it. I would fix the article if I could, but I don't want to break it like I usually do. Please fix this error. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 69.21.164.216 (talk) 11:15, 23 August 2008 (UTC)

Citing sources to back up your claims would be helpful. However, I found a source, and this has been put in place of the source that didn't say anything about his rank - see [4]. I have also amended the rank chart. Thanks for pointing this out. Rikstar (talk) 21:51, 23 August 2008 (UTC)

Post-Army Recordings

On the main page titled "Military service and mothers death",where it mentions about Elvis's alledged London visit. I just think it's a little out of place in this section,as it was proven to be nothing more than a publicity stunt. My suggestion is that could we replace that perhaps with more emphasis on the next paragraph about Elvis's Post-Army Recordings? Here is what Author Charles L.Ponce DeLeon had to say about Elvis's Post-Army Recordings: "These sessions gave Elvis an opportunity to record an even wider variety of songs. The most notable change was inclusion of an operatic ballad that enabled him to make use of the vocal skills he had developed in Germany. Released as a single in July, "It's Now or Never" was a rewritten version of an Italian folk song that had once been a hit for Enrico Caruso. It became a huge hit and gave Presley his second No.1 single in a row. Elvis's next single,released in November but also recorded at the April session was also a ballad,"Are You Lonesome Tonight?". It was another remake-the original had been popular in the 1920s-and it included a corny recitation that was clearly out of step with the times. But it was a favourite of Parker's wife and well suited to Elvis's new vocal style,and the Colonel was certain it would be a hit. Parker had never interfered in Elvis's recording or choice of material,but sensing how important this was to his manager,Elvis put his entire soul into the recording,giving the final product an ardent sincerity that captivated listeners. It was soon Presley's third consecutive No.1 song. He followed up with another Italian-flavoured tune,"Surrender",which was released in early 1961 and became the fifth straight Presley single to reach the top charts. It was an astonishing run,equal to the success he had enjoyed in the mid-1950s,and a testament to his fans willingness to accept his change in musical direction.

Yet hit singles were but the tip of the iceburg,and any review of his post-Army recordings that focuses on singles alone underestimates his growth as a vocalist. The Nashville sessions in the spring of 1960 were among the most fruitful of his career and resulted in works that rank with his most oringinal and accomplished recordings of the 1950s,subsequent sessions in October and the following spring were also productive,though not to the same degree. Inspired by the long hiatus from recording,Presley demonstrated his mastery of ballads,country-inflicted pop ,jaunty pop rock,and nasty blues. The blues songs-particulary "A Mess of Blues" and Lowell Fulson's "Reconsider Baby",long one of Elvis's favourites-were riveting with the crack studio musicians providing the perfect accompaniment for Presley's raunchy vocals. Even otherwise innocuous pop-rock tunes had a edge that lifted them above the bland pop songs that had come to dominate the charts since the late 1950s." the author goes on to say "Elvis continued in the same vein at recording sessions held in October 1960,im March,June,and October of 1961,and in March 1962. Besides "Surrender",the October 1960 sessions yielded a stellar gospel album. His Hand in Mine,a project Presley had been looking forward to for several years. It did surprisingly well on the charts,reaching No.13. The three sessions in 1961 produced hit singles-"I Feel So Bad","His Latest Flame" and "Good Luck Charm",the latter reaching No.1 Only Roy Orbison,Ray Charles,Jackie Wilson and a few Motown artists can challenge Elvis for both quality and quantity of music in this period," the critic Dave Marsh has argued,"and only Charles can touch his diversity." Source:"The Life Of Elvis Presley"-Fortunate Son by Charles L.Ponce DeLeon p.124,125,126

Looking at what this Author has to say,makes me think that the recordings at this time and the transition Presley made deserves a little bit more of a mention. Any thoughts?--Jaye9 (talk) 02:01, 27 August 2008 (UTC)

I agree.Rikstar (talk) 09:27, 27 August 2008 (UTC)

When he became the Pelvis

Lots of rewriting. I heard Elvis address the "Elvis the Pelvis" nickname on the Elvis '56 dvd. In fact, the usage began after the Hound Dog performance on the Steve Allen Show, which was in 56. Right now it is out of place in the Early Performances section. Steve Pastor (talk) 22:03, 13 September 2008 (UTC)

Quite a few things are out of chronological order simply to keep relevant subject material together, and the article reading easy. It could be put that he would later be labeled the Pelvis, and still include it in the existing section, where his other names are generally mentioned. Alternatively, it could be put after the Hound Dog mention, but I don't have the reference details for that. If you've got any views on the rewrite, Steve, please comment. I did a rejig of Ed Sullivan cos it was so bad; I am not happy with some of the quotes in it, but removing them has been, er, a bit difficult in the past. Rikstar (talk) 07:23, 14 September 2008 (UTC)

OOps. It was the Milton Berle Show. Funny what you think of when you get up in the middle of the night. I'll spend some time here agian in the next few days. (Although it looks looks like I've got a hardware problem on this end.) Steve Pastor (talk) 18:29, 14 September 2008 (UTC)164.159.60.2 (talk) 18:06, 14 September 2008 (UTC)

On August 15,1955,Presley(who had now been billed or labeled in the media as the "The King of Western Bop","The Hillibilly Cat",and "The Memphis Flash"). From April 23 1956,he had a two-week booking at the Venus Room of the New Frontier Hotel in Las Vegas - billed as "The Atomic Power Singer". Source:myspace.com (Aust)

He got the nickname "Elvis the Pelvis",from his performance on Milton Berle's "Texaco Star Theatre",which worried the family minded Ed Sullivan. Source:www.findagrave.com

(1956)Earned nickname Elvis the Pelvis after second appearance on "The Milton Berle Show". Source:www.eonline.com

Reporters of the mainstream press had saddled Elvis with what they thought was a clever nickname. "Elvis the Pelvis" - a name the serious young singer despised. Oh Hy Gardner's television interview program,Elvis complained,"I don't like being called Elvis the Pelvis - I mean it's one of the most childish expressions I have ever heard coming from an adult. Source:people.howstuffwork.com "Elvis Presley And The Press"

Hope the above helps. --Jaye9 (talk) 22:48, 14 September 2008 (UTC)

Thanks, Jay. Here's another one from the Milton Berle article. [5] Those of us who have been around are aware of the "churning" of this article. Elvis is such a high profile subject, that many, many people want to contribute. It doesn't end up producing the best outcome, however. What happens, too, is that in the interest of brevity and/or cohesiveness, details are collapsed and condensed, making it very easy to misread. Writing well is way more difficult than just throwing in a bunch of details, many of which are really someone's opinion or interpretation of what actually happened. This article, I'm afraid, will never be complete. Steve Pastor (talk) 15:24, 15 September 2008 (UTC)

Elvis Presley Shrine on Aspen Mountain

There is an Elvis Presley Shrine on Aspen Mountain in Colorado. According to the Aspen Times newspaper it was the first shrine erected on the mountain. "Elvis Presley Enterprises" of Memphis, TN has made contributions to the shrine. Perhaps information on the shrine should be added to the Elvis Presley article somewhere. See this web page for the link to the Aspen Times article and also for more info on the Elvis Presley Shrine: http://www.aspensnowmassshrines.com/index.php?id=1,23,0,0,1,0 AspenShrines (talk) 15:18, 17 September 2008 (UTC)

For a general biography, I don't think this is really relevant enough to warrant inclusion. Rikstar (talk) 00:31, 18 September 2008 (UTC)

Who's on first

What I consider an important detail has been edited out somewhere in all of the volumous editing that goes on in this article. "Everyone knows" that Elvis got big becaus he did rhythm and blues songs. Truth is, his version of Bill Monroe's "Blue Moon of Kentucky" was a bigger hit in the South in 1955, when first released, than "That's Alright". RCA put him in its country division when they bought his contract. Some may consider it to be a minor detail. I think it's important. And, it's quite clear if you look at the reference. Steve Pastor (talk) 16:27, 17 September 2008 (UTC)

Commentary on the Steve Allen appearance

If the article HAS TO include someone's opinion about Allen's motivation and intent, etc, WITHOUT ASKING Allen himself, it's only fair to let Allen speak for himself. Note, too, if you bother to check the reference, that Elvis appeared in a comedy skit on this same show, along with Allen and others. Allen was a comedian. If this makes the article too long, then someone's opinion about this show should also be removed, which would be OK with me. Steve Pastor (talk) 16:54, 18 September 2008 (UTC)

Agreed, Steve. There should be balance. Rikstar (talk) 13:37, 23 September 2008 (UTC)

SocailStudies

Elvis was born in January 8, 1935 Tupelo, Mississippi, USA. Elvis began playing his guitar when he was 12 years old. Which is in 1953. Also he started making alot of of money.Alot of people thought that he became rich so he could get drunk. But that's not true. He became rich for his family. He didn't even realize that he was becoming rich. His childhood was very normal. He started working very hard on his own songs. By the time he was 40, his health became very bad. He was drinking drugs and becoming very sick. So, a few years later, Elvis's death was at age 42, a terrible time to think as. What everybody would think of is Elvis. His love, his help, his friends, and his family. If Elvis was my brother, I would cry to death, even if i didn't have to. Everyone in the world just don't believe in Elvis. Well, I'll never forget the day I blessed Elvis. Hello. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 69.120.148.97 (talk) 22:21, 19 September 2008 (UTC)

Adding citations to the summary

Other (featured) articles have citations here, so relevant ones should be added, preferably ones already cited in the main text. Please do so if you can, or have the time. Thanks. Rikstar (talk) 19:01, 7 October 2008 (UTC)

Interviews, film of performances

Take a look at this site [6] There is some good footage here. One man tells about buying Elvis a jock strap the first time he was on national tv (apparently he had been wearing boxers up til then). The Hound Dog on Milton Berle Show segment is dubbed with the recorded version with the Jordanaires, and doesn't show the slow version he switched into at the end ??? One the whole though, this site in based in Australia is excellent. Let's talk about adding refs to to the article somehow.Steve Pastor (talk) 15:23, 9 October 2008 (UTC)

Looks good, Steve. The proper Berle version of Hound Dog is on You Tube by the way, in addition to the dubbed version. Will browse the site more when I have time. I think refs for the summary can be added from existing ones, but this site may really help. Other refs are need for main text anyway, having had a quick look. What do you think of the article anyway?? Would any of your changes touch on previous problems we've had editing this thing? Rikstar (talk) 10:48, 14 October 2008 (UTC)

Jewish ancestry

Presley, though not a Jew himself, definitely had some Jewish ancestry. Therefore, he should be in the Americans of Jewish descent category. He is already in other ancestry categories. Werdnawerdna (talk) 15:42, 13 October 2008 (UTC)

While I've heard of that before, do you have any specific proof? Ykerzner (talk) 02:15, 21 November 2008 (UTC)

elvis is the greatest singer/performer/entertainer of all time —Preceding unsigned comment added by 173.68.77.87 (talk) 16:21, 13 October 2008 (UTC)

I did not visit this discussion for almost a year. And here is a strange discussion going on about Elvis Presley. I remember I mentioned on this site that his oldest known ancestors came from Germany and after telling each other some "pro" and "contra" all discussion members agreed that it is not so important and could be left out without harming the article. I think this could be done with his "jewish" roots as well. Why? Obviously he did not care for it (if he had ever jewish ancestry). So why should it be so important for the article (proably it is more important to some people with strange obsessions). He was not religious in that way, he was not interested in Israel. It is the same for Germany, he was there and did not even care. He was never in Israel although he was a multimillionaer. He was never interested in natives like for instance someone like Marlon Brando. Nobody considered him as a native ( even if he had ancestry) when he was alive. Did he ever visited his "brothers and sisters" in the reservation? Okay - maybe some people saw "flaming star" or "stay away Joe" - but that was fiction and Elvis did care for film scripts as much as for Israel and Germany(east&west) together. I think his interess in black culture (not only music) were much more important than having gypsies, german, british, jewish or any other background. How can some person call it racistic (in Elvis Presley`s case) to leave his (non confirmed) jewish background out? It is the same with his native background? I think he did not care that much for (his) ethnic background but more for his social background which is not the same (at least in his case). 87.162.38.67 (talk) 18:16, 25 November 2008 (UTC) Franco, Deutschland One more thing: It is stupid and racistic to think that somebody is a superior human being because he is from one ethnic background ("pure"). On the other it is stupid and racistic to think someone is superior because of a certain mixture of backgrounds. Many people tend to see only the one side of the medal. 87.162.38.67 (talk) 18:34, 25 November 2008 (UTC) Franco, Deutschland

FBI Files on Elvis Presley

From the article FBI Files on Elvis Presley, has the Paternity Suit section which was added five months ago any thruth to it? SledgeX (talk) 08:50, 16 October 2008 (UTC)

I have deleted this unsourced paragraph. The story is not mentioned in Thomas Fensch's book on the FBI files. It was included by an IP (see [7]) and may have been fabricated. Onefortyone (talk) 02:00, 8 November 2008 (UTC)

Pronunciation of surname

Last night, I had a discussion with a friend of mine on how to pronounce Presley. I pronounced it /prɛsli/, but she pronounced it /priːsli/. Who was right? Should this piece of info added to the article? -- Army1987 (t — c) 10:21, 26 October 2008 (UTC)

Grammar issue

His Blue Hawaii even "boosted the new state's tourism. Some of his most enduring and popular songs came from those [kind of] movies," like "Can't Help Falling in Love," "Return to Sender" and "Viva Las Vegas."[152] This sentence is quoted verbatim from the article. Since a large portion of it is taken from what seems to be a book or article, maybe it should be: His Blue Hawaii even "...boosted the new state's tourism. Some of his most enduring and popular songs came from those [kind of] movies...", like "Can't Help Falling in Love," "Return to Sender" and "Viva Las Vegas."[152] Ykerzner (talk) 02:12, 21 November 2008 (UTC)Ykerzner

elvis presley lives

there has been a conspiracy that elvis aron presley is still alive with found evidence such such as error of the correct name on elis's grave stone and also with in the coffin of elvis was air conditioning people believe that with in the coffin was a wax dumby and the air conditioning was to prevent it from melting. Also there has been rare sightings of elvisand there is a man who looks identical to elvis but as an older form and also sounds just like the singer, he is under the name jon burrows which is also the name elvis visited the white house in. Even though there is a large amount of evidence nothing has been proven but please judge for your self. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 89.242.31.27 (talk) 01:06, 23 November 2008 (UTC)