| Ever wanted to ask a question about Elvis to someone who was there through the good times and the bad? Now is your chance! Love him or hate him, Marty Lacker is about as open as they come, so send your questions to us at eer-desk@ntlworld.com with the subject header as "ASK MARTY" and we will pass them on to him. As soon as we get a reply from Marty, both your question and the answer will be added here. Please note that Marty will answer your questions as and when he can...also, contrary to some beliefs, Marty, as part of the Memphis Mafia is doing this "ASK MARTY" page for us without charge in order to help us, help YOU get more than just the usual EPE approved answers to your questions about Elvis. |
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Jim Z Asks Marty: [17.11.10]
Marty every time I watch the Aloha show I always wait and watch for Elvis reaching for the "crown" at the end as he gracefully leaves the stage. What a great
symbolic touch to a perfect performance by Elvis for the whole world to see as he was clearly the undisputed king that evening.
Can you tell me where that crown came from? Was it a planned event or a random act by a fan in the audience and where would it be today?
Did Elvis make any comments on it? Congratulations on your recent award too.
Marty Says:
Hello Jim,
The crown came from a fan in the audience. The fans in Hawaii have always been exuberant about Elvis and that is there style to do things like that.
As an example, when we did Paradise Hawaiian Style in '65, we spent just about all that time hooting at the Polynesian Cultural Center that the young people
showed the life style of five of the Island nations. Elvis and us guys loved it there because the atmosphere those young people created was one of
happiness.
They had a ceremony for us the last night and part of it, they would all put leis around the necks of the Elvis and the guys according to how much they liked
us. There were a lot of them participating and I'm proud to say that Elvis and I were buried with Leis almost to the tops of our heads. What I'm getting at is
they always make a gesture of how much they love you and that's what that fan did with the crown. There were other thing given to him by the audience that
night. He was appreciative. I do not know what happened to the crown or where it is today.
Thank you for the congratulations.
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Gina Asks Marty: [12.11.10]
Hi Marty
I have been wondering if you knew the other side of Elvis' family. The Smiths?
Since reading of Aunt Lillian in the book, 'Elvis and Gladys', I've wondered about all
of them. If they had families? If they knew Elvis very well?
I know Billy Smith was close to Elvis and Just curious why none of the Smiths have been covered except Billy?
Did Aunt Lillian have children, grandchildren?
Are any of them still alive and do they live in Memphis or Tupelo?
Thank you and congratulations on your recognition ....
Marty Says:
Hello Gina,
The Smiths were prevalent as the Presleys in Elvis' life.
There was Travis and Loraine, Billy's parents. Travis was a great guy and he was Elvis and his mother's favorite. He was Mrs. Presley's closest brother. Billy
had a brother Bobby who was around Elvis through the mid 60's, he died. Lillian Fortenberry was another Smith sister as was Clettes Presley who married
Vernon's brother Vester. They were parents of Elvis' closest female cousin,Patsy, who worked in the Graceland office.
In the early years there was Gene smith who was with Elvis from the beginning and they were close but Gene did something that was a no-no with Elvis and he
was fired. Junior Smith was another Elvis cousin who unfortunately got messed up in the Korean War and he died in the early 60's. gene's father Robert was
another Uncle who hardly ever came around.
There was Johnny Smith another uncle who briefly worked at the gates but he stayed drunk too much and Elvis and Vernon fired him. He had three sons who
stayed in trouble all the time to a point where they were banned from Graceland. Another uncle was Tracey Smith, who unfortunately had a mental handicap.
Because of that Mrs. Presley stayed close to him as did Elvis whenever he came to the house.
That's about all I can remember but I don't think I missed anyone.
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Steve Hardin Asks Marty: [11.11.10]
Hi Marty,
First, let me congratulate you on receiving your Beale Street Blues Note. I believe a lot of your work and contributions to the music world have often gone
under the radar, so I’m happy to see your efforts acknowledged; it’s an honor you rightfully deserve.
I have a few questions that I’d appreciate hearing your response to. First, I recently saw an old interview of Jerry Lee Lewis where he talked about years ago
him finding batch of bootleg recordings of his at a gas station, and he took them outside the store and set fire to them! My question is, do you ever recall or
know of Elvis ever making comments about his music being bootlegged, and if he ever obtained any booted records of his? I also am curious if he ever
mentioned seeing fans in the audience filming him with those old 8mm cameras and if so what was his view on that? Did he not like it or if didn’t bother him?
Finally, after Elvis returned to performing live in Las Vegas 1969, do you know if he expressed interest in doing a tour after the conclusion of this opening
engagement instead of waiting a year to attempt a road tour?
Thank you for your time Marty, and again congratulations on your recent award.
Marty Says:
Hi Steve,
That's as good, unusual question.
First of all you never know whether Jerry Lee was telling the truth, he sometimes made up stories, especially about he and Elvis.
I never heard Elvis talk about bootlegs, I doubt he was even aware of them. However, they weren't so prevalent back then as they were in later years. He
never really was concerned of things that didn't directly effect his personal life.
He could see just the audience up front in Vegas or on tour,although he could see better on tour because of the lighting in the arena. Elvis had no problem
with fans and cameras, Parker may have but Elvis didn't mind. His fans were important to him and unless they were rude or belligerent he was nice to all of
them and just enjoyed being on stage.
After the '69 performances, he mentioned that Parker talked to him about touring because Elvis had told him he wanted to get back to doing that as opposed
to any more movies. The only movies he wanted to do is straight dramatic movies with no singing, he wanted to prove he was a good dramatic actor.
Thank you Steve for your comments about the award, I was very appreciative in getting it.
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Wade From Dallas Asks Marty: [09.11.10]
How do you justify your friendship with Sonny and Red today, and at the same time still claiming loyalty to Elvis and his legacy, knowing that if Elvis was still
alive never would have forgiven their classless act.
I don’t care what they say, the book “ Elvis, What Happened” never should have been written while Elvis was alive if they really cared about him. And now,
both of them are profiting off of their time with Elvis as if the book was never written. Really disturbs me. At least David Hebler is on record saying he wished it
wouldn’t have been written in the “tone” that it was.
Marty Says:
Hello Wade,
You have your opinion of people and I have mine. I have the luxury and advantage of knowing them and you don't. Red and I go all the way back to High
School. In addition and more important, I know the whole story and you don't. You also haven't earned the right to question my loyalty to Elvis, that loyalty
has been proven by my deeds numerous times.
As for the tone of the book that was the doing of the sleazeball writer Steve Dunleavy not the three guys. They had no say so as to the finished product.
The best thing I can wish for you is to have friends and brothers like them in your lifetime.
By the way, nobody's asking you to like us.
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Candy Asks Marty: [09.11.10]
In reference to Nick S. who wrote you about the Dade county coliseum concert and Elvis' stomach cramps..
I am assuming that is due to his colon problem. Elvis had severe colon problems and also,,my opinion, that is what probably took his life. He, not nice, but was
straining..
I do disagree with dr. nick's statement in his book, that the only time elvis was addicted , was when he was being given injections that were supposed to be
acupuncture....Nick knew...or why else was he giving him placebos and had a nurse on call to supposedly 'dispense' his drugs for safety reasons.
According to reports I have read, dan warlick found three empty syringes in three different areas of elvis' private quarters, yet his bathroom had been cleaned
of everything.
Marty, I know this has been beaten to death....but those who were still around saw the progression of the drugs,,,something should have been done. I have
said this to you before and I don't think I made myself clear,,,but from the view of a fan,,,,Elvis had taken on a pasty, unheathly, swollen faced look.
The long hair and sideburns made him look shabby and unkept,,but the look i speak of was a look of not only unhealthiness but one of despair....
I know the stories of how his anger and nobody could tell him anything,,but something should have been done. This icon, this man who was 'supposed to be' ,
lying there dead at 42 still makes me ponder what the complete and total cause of death was.
Some say polypharmacy, some say the colon, straining,,,some say just plain overdose,,,but to die alone after all those years of surrounding himself with you
guys, his friends, is sad.
Vernon was in the position to act, but too selfish, not to mention that damned colonel...he disgusts me to this day....yet priscilla went along with him for
$$$$$$$$$.
I do believe that when a persons' mission in life is over, they go,,,maybe his was over.
I think Elvis was having trouble trying to fit into a music scene that was changing,,,and as you tried to advise him to get different material...he didn't.
Good luck with you beale street NOTE....and I would hope that people would be smart enough to realize you had MANY accomplishments,,,not just a job with
Elvis.
Love ya, Candy
Marty Says:
Candy,
You are right, it has been beaten to death.
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Nick S Asks Marty: [06.11.10]
Marty,
In regards to Elvis, are you aware of the RARE LIVE PERFORMANCE from the DADE COUNTY COLISEUM which took place in Madison Wisconsin on June
24th 1977? Did you know that during this show Elvis complained of stomach cramps and almost passed out after the show. I have the DVD and I have watched
the show. It is rare fan footage. But, I did not know he complained about his stomach. I am gonna watch this show right after this message gets sent.
Marty Says:
Hello Nick,
I know nothing of that as I wasn't there nor have I heard it from the guys that were. Stomach cramps were nothing new for him and I doubt they were serious
otherwise he would have done something about it.
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William Rauhuff Asks Marty: [28.10.10]
I have been reading the Elvis Express about the picture of Elvis in his coffin was perhaps taken by David Stanley possible instead of a cousin named Bobby
Mann. Man if this is true that is about as low as you can get. I never trusted any of the Stanley family especially the low life mother. What was Vernon thinking
by marrying her anyway? Who do YOU believe really cared about Elvis the most and what is your favorite Elvis musical period. Mine is 1969-1970. As always
thanks for your time and answers.
Marty Says:
Hello William,
Yeah that is the lowest of the low and the Stanley's are capable of hitting that level. The name given out back then was Billy Mann Sr. not Bobby. Bobby Mann
actually died before Elvis did. Most of us always wondered how he could have done that because if he did come to the house to pay his respects, he would not
have been left alone at the casket because we all knew Elvis did not like or trust him, to the point where when Elvis was alive he was no longer allowed in the
house by Elvis' orders. That picture would have had to be taken late at night when the public was not around.
Now according to what I heard, Dick Grob and David were two of the people that guarded the casket all night but I don't know who else did. That would have
been the opportune time to take the pictures but I do not know who actually did. However, I see no reason for Generoso Pope's son to lie about it and I also
don't know how else he would have David's or Billy Mann's name.
As to who really cared about Elvis, there were most of the original guys, Billy Smith, Lamar Fike, Red & Sonny West, Joe Esposito, Richard Davis, Alan Fortas,
Charlie Hodge and me. The guys that came later were not like those of us from the early years who basically grew up with Elvis. Nor according to Elvis' own
statements, did he feel the same way towards them as he did us nor did he trust them as much.
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Chad from USA Asks Marty: [25.10.10]
Hi Marty,
Lisa Marie recently did a interview with Oprah. I'd be curious to know your comments regarding what she said. Her resembelence to Elvis is remarkable.
http://tv.yahoo.com/daytime/video/oprah-the-early-show/22208427/
Thanks!
Marty Says:
Hello Chad,
Lisa seems to have gotten a bit wiser about the realities of life around her father and the guys around him. However, not all of us were there for what we could
get but were there because we cared about him and some of the guys.
We all basically grew up together. I speak of the original,early guys not the ones who came later. However there were a couple of original, who shall remain
nameless, who were always looking to get something from him.
She at one time resembled Elvis but now she looks more like his first cousin, Patsy Presley. She has also gotten a bit pudgy.
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Arun Jassi Asks Marty: [22.10.10]
Hello Marty,
I have read and heard so many people who knew Elvis, whether as a friend or an acquaintance or even meeting him for the first and only time, say that Elvis
was even more handsome in person than he was in photographs or screen.
My question is, if what they say is true, how can that be possible? Was Elvis REALLY better-looking in person than in pictures? Did he have an aura, in
essence, that was able to have that kind of effect on people?
Thank you Marty.
Marty Says:
Hi Arun,
Elvis was a very good looking man as most people know but his charisma and magnetism made him even more attractive when you met him in person. Most
people that met him were so excited that their state of mind made him look even more handsome.
In line with that, here's a story. His cousin Gene Smith, who Elvis grew up with, once said to him," Cuz, I ain't gay but you are the prettiest thing I ever saw in my
life."
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Nick S Asks Marty: [21.10.10]
When Elvis did the 9th take of Frankenfort Special, medium tempo, he was supposed to sing the line after the second verse...
Go Special Go, Blow Whistle Blow Frankfort Special got a special way go, followed by Whoah Oh Oh..
My question is if he missed that line and sang Whoah Oh Oh instead, he'll yell "Hell! Hell!" when he made a mistake.
Why did he say that?
Marty Says:
Hello Nick,
I'm sorry but the only thing I can say is...I have no idea.
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Candy Asks Marty: [15.10.10]
Of course we all wish Elvis' life had turned out different, but I think he would be surprised to know the question he asked marion cocke,,,'do you think they will
remember me'?...is a resounding YES.
I cannot understand why Elvis didn't see just how big an influence he was/had on people.
Do you think it was because he was so cocooned, or that he just didn't take himself that seriously?
I know it is all over now Marty, but it still just is a mystery to me that he couldn't understand HE was the big deal and that anyone could have managed him
better than that carnival nut , parker.
It is also shocking to read the things that people actually believe and print about him.
Also...I had mentioned in another email that Vernon had made a disparaging remark whilst both were hospitalized about Elvis being the cause of Gladys
dying...you said you hadn't heard that, but if I am not mistaken , it is a quoted in the MM Revelations book...either Billy or Lamar said it.
Marty Says:
Candy,
That question to Keisker was made before he really got to be the icon he was. As the years went by he was very well aware of the impact he had on people
and the extraordinary level of superstardom he had achieved.
In the later years he knew someone could manage him better but he both was loyal and afraid to break loose from Parker.
Much has been written about him after he died by people who never spent one minute with him or us, they're all giving their uninformed opinion based on
other things they've read or heard but as usual what they read and heard was bullshit too. Some who were around him wrote things to fit their own agenda to
make themselves look good or did it so fans will buy something from them and to make themselves look good to them or feel better about himself. Some of us
are firm believers in what Elvis and we used to repeat every now and then,"The Truth Shall Set You Free!"
I learned a very longtime ago, two things, one, usually a lie will come back to bite you in the ass later and Secondly, you better have a very good memory,
because once you lie about something, you better remember what your initial answer was the next time you're asked the same question.
I still have not heard that Vernon said that but it would not surprise me if he did, but at that time he did accuse Elvis of giving him the heart attack that he was
in the hospital for. However I doubt he ever thanked Elvis for the sweet and easy life he provided him because of his fame and fortune.
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Jim Z in Toronto, Canada Asks Marty: [13.10.10]
I recently read that you thought Elvis missed a lot of opportunities to record some major hits that went to other performers such as "I Honestly Love You" by
Olivia Newton John.
Can you name some of the hit songs that could have been a bigger hit for Elvis (in your opinion) had he recorded them? He did great live versions of some of
Olivia's other big hits. I think Elvis would have done a superb job of "The Games People Play" (Joe South hit). The Kenny Rogers hit "The Gambler" would be
another one.
Marty Says:
Hello Jim,
Just to name a few. 'Let's Stay Together', 'The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face', 'I Gotcha'. There were so many more too numerous to mention.
He also should have recorded some of the hits of others that he did on stage that he might have gotten first if Parker wasn't involved like 'Sweet Caroline',
'Never Been To Spain' and others.
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Nick Serio Asks Marty: [13.10.10]
Back in the late 60s Colonel Parker got a call from Red Robinson from Vancouver Canada. The whole phone conversation goes when Red got a hold of Tom
Moffet and Tom told him he'll be able to get a-hold of the Colonel. In the telephone conversation, Red Robinson congratulates the colonel with the new LP
"With Elvis".
Red wanted to know if it was possible to talk to Elvis but was told the colonel was the man to call. There was mention of MGM and Culver City, CA in this
conversation too. Red Robinson asked him, "Is there any chance in the foreseeable future that could encompass a year or two of Elvis doing a tour again
around the parts of the world he never been? Colonel's reply on the phone was, "Well you know, the problem is I've had a bad back and he won't go on tour
unless I set it up and right now I cannot set up these tours, it's hard you know.
My last question was when do you believe this telephone conversation took place?
Marty Says:
Nick,
Another of Parker's bullshit excuses to keep Elvis from touring out of the country because, as we learned after Elvis died, Parker was an illegal alien and he
was afraid he couldn't get back in the country because he had no passport.
He used that back problem for 20 years when he didn't want to do something. Elvis could have gone overseas with Diskin and Jerry Weintraub but Parker
thought if he wasn't there he'd get cheated out of a dollar. Even though he didn't mind cheating Elvis.
I have no idea when that phone conversation took place. Parker did a lot of those things without us knowing about it. No telling what he turned down for Elvis
without Elvis knowing about it. If it didn't suit Parker it didn't get done regardless of what Elvis might have wanted.
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Ken Jewell Asks Marty: [10.10.10]
Marty,
We all know that Elvis’ Catalog was too deep for him to sing all of his hits. I am wondering why he you thought he didn’t sing 'If I Can Dream' in concert after
the 68 special? Do you think it was because he gave a performance he couldn’t ever top again? Also, wondering why 'Power of My Love' from the American
Sessions-wasn’t a concert song? I have always thought he “killed” that song and would have even sounded better live with the crowd urging him on? Your
thoughts? Are there any songs you thought he should have added to the concert set list.
Thanks for your open transparency.
Elvis Fan in NC
Marty Says:
Hello Ken,
It's possible that he felt those songs were not good for live performances for him and he wouldn't be comfortable singing them on stage.
There are certain songs that are best left to the recording studio because you can do as many takes as you want until you get it the way you want it.
I think he should have changed up his songs from time to time in concerts but he was a creature of habits. He definitely should have done some of his early
hits from '54 to '62 and then add current hits like Suspicious Minds and Ghetto. Then maybe add a song or two that fit him that were hits by other people. He
definitely should not have done many of the lame movie songs and the later crap given to him by Parker and Hill & Range.
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Jim in Toronto Asks Marty: [29.09.10]
Marty could you please gives us your opinion on the new "Suspicious Minds" release from the soon to be released "Viva Elvis" album? I was wondering if you
heard it yet (perhaps off You Tube as I did) and what your opinion might be concerning the "modification" of Elvis' music. I think it's interesting what they can
do with technology today but I'm not sure anyone should be touching Elvis' Masterpieces. As far as I'm concerned Elvis' music was perfect just as it was
recorded using the technology of the day. It can't be re-created or perfected in any way. I know you were involved with some of Elvis' recordings from 1969.
What do you think and what would Elvis think????
Marty Says:
Hi Jim,
I only heard it briefly on YouTube and it doesn't sit well with me. The original version cut at American Studios was the one Elvis okayed to be released. It was
#1 on the charts. I don't like it when people get cute and try to better the original, especially when the original was a hit and it was the one Elvis wanted
released.
I feel the same way about all the alternate takes they have put out over the years just to milk the fans out of more money. If Elvis and the producer thought the
alternate takes were good they would have been released back then but they didn't think so. Suspicious Minds is a classic and they shouldn't tamper with it.
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Al the Canadian Mountie Asks Marty: [09.09.10]
Hi Marty,
I heard a lot of rumor regarding the belt that Elvis gave to Jack Lord's wife Marie. I heard that he gave her the Aloha belt after the rehearsal show and they
had to make another one for the telecast show and they got it at the last minutes before the telecast by Satellite. I also heard that he gave her a belt in Las
Vegas in February 1973. Could you shed light on this?
The other day I was listening to Elvis in my car and I was wondering about Elvis. When Elvis was travelling in his car around Memphis in late 70's, did he listen
to radio, his own music or did he have 8 tracks in his cars? If he had 8 tracks what did he listen too.
Thank you again my friend and God bless you.
Marty Says:
Hi Al,
That is true about Marie Lord and both belts. For some reason Elvis liked Jack and Marie very much and did things those couple of times with them that he
didn't do with other celebrities.
Elvis listened to the radio in the car at sometimes and usually listening to the pop/rock station WHBQ but he didn't listen to his records usually except when he
received the dubs right after a session. No 8 tracks in the car but we did have a tape machine hooked up in the customized bus in the 60's and listened to
tapes I made of his favorite songs while going back and forth across country.
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Candy Asks Marty: [09.09.10]
I heard Ann Margret say on you tube with Charlie Rose, that Elvis was in essence 'made fun of'...and why couldn't nice things have been said about him while
he was here.
Do you think she was speaking of his being from the south? We do get made fun of.
Also...I know Frank Sinatra made fun of Elvis in the beginning, but later changed his attitude...how did all this make Elvis feel?
I just read your response to JIM from Ontario concerning Vernon's attitude toward Elvis' health..
That hospital visit you mentioned where Vernon accused Elvis of causing his heart attack...is it true that he also said Elvis had killed Gladys? That he worried
her to death? Or is that a myth?
Also..I think Vernon had great reason not to trust Dr. Nick (even though I agree with Dr. Nick's assessment of what killed Elvis), Vernon had every right to be
highly suspect of a lot of Elvis' friends at that time.
Do you think Elvis was distancing himself from all you guys because he was 'growing up' and didn't need all the security that you as types of "brothers"
provided, or do you think it was because he just didn't care anymore?
Thanks as always Marty.
Marty Says:
Candy,
I do not know if Vernon said that about Elvis and his mother. I have never heard that.
It wasn't just a case of Vernon not trusting or highly suspect of the guys, especially the original guys, it was why he was that way. Nobody, with the exception
of a couple of the guys, ever gave Elvis a reason that they could not be trusted. As for Nick, he was the lesser of all evils as far as Doctors were concerned,he
did care for Elvis. His problem was he just caught up in a lifestyle he shouldn't have and he just should have remained in his doctor's practice and not travelled
with Elvis. He was also highly influenced by Esposito and they both used each other when it came to get things from Elvis. Nick was out of his element and
Esposito took advantage of it. Vernon was that way because he trusted nobody,he thought everyone was out to get what they could from Elvis and then Elvis
would go broke and then Vernon might have to go back to work which he hated.
My first reaction when Elvis pushed some of us away was telling Billy, "Good, he should have done that a long time ago." It was Elvis who demanded we
always be there even after I quit the payroll. That wasn't easy on our families to be with him all that time. He also was a bit screwed up. He also still had guys
around him but with the exception of 3 of them, they were all young guys who he could preach to and tell his tired old stories and con them. However, after
awhile he told Billy, who he mainly was around 24/7, that he missed the old guys and that he didn't trust the new guys like he did us.
Even though we didn't see him that last year, I knew he still cared about me and he knew I still cared about him and we last spoke on the phone in July '77, a
month before he died.
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Jim in Toronto Asks Marty: [06.09.10]
Marty could you please comment on Vernon’s perception of Elvis’ failing health in the final few months of Elvis’ life?
I know he was sick too but did he realize what was happening to Elvis? Could he have made Elvis help himself?
I have always wondered why Vernon had such little influence on Elvis in those final months (perhaps you know better). I’ve never really heard anyone
comment on this particular topic either over the years. I would love to hear your comments on this subject.
Marty Says:
Hello Jim,
It might have something to do with Vernon accusing Elvis of being the cause of Vernon's heart attack when they were both in Baptist Hospital. Elvis went to
Vernon's room to see how he was and that's what Vernon said to him.
Although they loved each other their was always an undercurrent of Vernon's jealousy and worrying about money. Elvis did a lot for his father in that area and
it seemed like the roles reversed.
I was not there the last few months as I had moved to California but from what a couple of the guys told me Vernon was publicly in denial about Elvis' pill
taking. He also didn't trust Dr. Nick and that had to do with money too.
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Terry Asks Marty: [02.09.10]
Thank you so much for your time for the Elvis fans.
I know that you don't like Priscilla, but in the DVD Elvis by the Presley's she says good things about Elvis and some bad about the Colonel.
She also says that the Colonel had no respect for the artist Elvis Presley. I think that Priscilla did good things too, and it was not always easy for her
living with Elvis.
Marty, is it true that there was almost no money when Elvis passed away?
And why did they filmed the CBS Concert in 1977? What do you think felt Elvis about that? Yes I believe also that if Elvis had done a world tour or making a
good movie he could lived longer than 42.
What about the movie A star is born in 1975, is it true that Elvis wanted to do that movie?
I think that Elvis was the greatest artist ever, what do you think Marty?
Marty, thank you very much
Marty Says:
Hello Terry,
Priscilla may have said a negative thing about the Colonel in the DVD but that was after he had died. While he was alive she sucked up to him, especially after
Elvis died and she wanted to keep doing business with him but the Probate Judge in Memphis made her stop because of all the shady deals he did that Elvis
did not get any part of. She's what is known as a fair weather friend. Yes, she said nice things about Elvis because she knew if she didn't the fans may not
come to Graceland and that would deprive her of making money.
There was very little money compared to what he made in his career but he spent a lot of it and there were no investments made in his twenty two year career
to protect his money but he still had around $7.5 Million.
They did the CBS concert film because Parker wanted more money. In my opinion they shouldn't have done it and even though they did it, they shouldn't
have shown it after Elvis died because of the shape he was in. That is the cause of the media and their Fat Elvis remarks.
Elvis wanted to do 'A Star Is Born' but Parker talked him out of it because he didn't want him exposed to Barbra Streisand who he feared would tell Elvis things
about the business end of entertaining, she's always been a smart businesswoman.
Yes, I agree Elvis was the most famous entertainer in history.
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William Rauhuff Asks Marty: [02.09.10]
Any truth to the story that Elvis wore 2 inch heels on stage so he would be 6:2?
I have read he was 6:0, 6:1, 6:2 and 5:11 not that it matters but how tall was Elvis?
How often do you see the rest of the MM? Is everybody still in pretty good health? I have read somewhere that Lamar has had some health issues.
Have a great Labor Day Marty
Marty Says:
Hello William,
Elvis was around 5'11" but he wore lifts in his shoes and a higher than normal heel on his boots which made him look a bit taller.
I see Billy a lot as he lives close by from Memphis in Mississippi, Billy and his wife Jo are like family to me and my family, we have always been close. Jo and my
wife Patsy are Best Friends. I speak with Lamar everyday and yes, he is in cancer remission and lives in Texas. I speak with Sonny every once in awhile and
when he comes to Memphis from his home outside of Nashville, we have breakfast at least one day of his visit. I speak with Red about three or four times a
year he lives on the Gulf Coast of Mississippi.
Other than that I don't speak to or see anyone else and that's by choice,neither do the four I mentioned. When Richard Davis was alive I spoke with him about
once a week and when Alan Fortas was alive and especially while he had cancer, I would go see him and take him to lunch.
You have a great Labor Day too.
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Jim Z Asks Marty: [17.11.10]
Marty every time I watch the Aloha show I always wait and watch for Elvis reaching for the "crown" at the end as he gracefully leaves the stage. What a great
symbolic touch to a perfect performance by Elvis for the whole world to see as he was clearly the undisputed king that evening.
Can you tell me where that crown came from? Was it a planned event or a random act by a fan in the audience and where would it be today?
Did Elvis make any comments on it? Congratulations on your recent award too.
Marty Says:
Hello Jim,
The crown came from a fan in the audience. The fans in Hawaii have always been exuberant about Elvis and that is there style to do things like that.
As an example, when we did Paradise Hawaiian Style in '65, we spent just about all that time hooting at the Polynesian Cultural Center that the young people
showed the life style of five of the Island nations. Elvis and us guys loved it there because the atmosphere those young people created was one of
happiness.
They had a ceremony for us the last night and part of it, they would all put leis around the necks of the Elvis and the guys according to how much they liked
us. There were a lot of them participating and I'm proud to say that Elvis and I were buried with Leis almost to the tops of our heads. What I'm getting at is
they always make a gesture of how much they love you and that's what that fan did with the crown. There were other thing given to him by the audience that
night. He was appreciative. I do not know what happened to the crown or where it is today.
Thank you for the congratulations.
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Gina Asks Marty: [12.11.10]
Hi Marty
I have been wondering if you knew the other side of Elvis' family. The Smiths?
Since reading of Aunt Lillian in the book, 'Elvis and Gladys', I've wondered about all
of them. If they had families? If they knew Elvis very well?
I know Billy Smith was close to Elvis and Just curious why none of the Smiths have been covered except Billy?
Did Aunt Lillian have children, grandchildren?
Are any of them still alive and do they live in Memphis or Tupelo?
Thank you and congratulations on your recognition ....
Marty Says:
Hello Gina,
The Smiths were prevalent as the Presleys in Elvis' life.
There was Travis and Loraine, Billy's parents. Travis was a great guy and he was Elvis and his mother's favorite. He was Mrs. Presley's closest brother. Billy
had a brother Bobby who was around Elvis through the mid 60's, he died. Lillian Fortenberry was another Smith sister as was Clettes Presley who married
Vernon's brother Vester. They were parents of Elvis' closest female cousin,Patsy, who worked in the Graceland office.
In the early years there was Gene smith who was with Elvis from the beginning and they were close but Gene did something that was a no-no with Elvis and he
was fired. Junior Smith was another Elvis cousin who unfortunately got messed up in the Korean War and he died in the early 60's. gene's father Robert was
another Uncle who hardly ever came around.
There was Johnny Smith another uncle who briefly worked at the gates but he stayed drunk too much and Elvis and Vernon fired him. He had three sons who
stayed in trouble all the time to a point where they were banned from Graceland. Another uncle was Tracey Smith, who unfortunately had a mental handicap.
Because of that Mrs. Presley stayed close to him as did Elvis whenever he came to the house.
That's about all I can remember but I don't think I missed anyone.
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Steve Hardin Asks Marty: [11.11.10]
Hi Marty,
First, let me congratulate you on receiving your Beale Street Blues Note. I believe a lot of your work and contributions to the music world have often gone
under the radar, so I’m happy to see your efforts acknowledged; it’s an honor you rightfully deserve.
I have a few questions that I’d appreciate hearing your response to. First, I recently saw an old interview of Jerry Lee Lewis where he talked about years ago
him finding batch of bootleg recordings of his at a gas station, and he took them outside the store and set fire to them! My question is, do you ever recall or
know of Elvis ever making comments about his music being bootlegged, and if he ever obtained any booted records of his? I also am curious if he ever
mentioned seeing fans in the audience filming him with those old 8mm cameras and if so what was his view on that? Did he not like it or if didn’t bother him?
Finally, after Elvis returned to performing live in Las Vegas 1969, do you know if he expressed interest in doing a tour after the conclusion of this opening
engagement instead of waiting a year to attempt a road tour?
Thank you for your time Marty, and again congratulations on your recent award.
Marty Says:
Hi Steve,
That's as good, unusual question.
First of all you never know whether Jerry Lee was telling the truth, he sometimes made up stories, especially about he and Elvis.
I never heard Elvis talk about bootlegs, I doubt he was even aware of them. However, they weren't so prevalent back then as they were in later years. He
never really was concerned of things that didn't directly effect his personal life.
He could see just the audience up front in Vegas or on tour,although he could see better on tour because of the lighting in the arena. Elvis had no problem
with fans and cameras, Parker may have but Elvis didn't mind. His fans were important to him and unless they were rude or belligerent he was nice to all of
them and just enjoyed being on stage.
After the '69 performances, he mentioned that Parker talked to him about touring because Elvis had told him he wanted to get back to doing that as opposed
to any more movies. The only movies he wanted to do is straight dramatic movies with no singing, he wanted to prove he was a good dramatic actor.
Thank you Steve for your comments about the award, I was very appreciative in getting it.
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Wade From Dallas Asks Marty: [09.11.10]
How do you justify your friendship with Sonny and Red today, and at the same time still claiming loyalty to Elvis and his legacy, knowing that if Elvis was still
alive never would have forgiven their classless act.
I don’t care what they say, the book “ Elvis, What Happened” never should have been written while Elvis was alive if they really cared about him. And now,
both of them are profiting off of their time with Elvis as if the book was never written. Really disturbs me. At least David Hebler is on record saying he wished it
wouldn’t have been written in the “tone” that it was.
Marty Says:
Hello Wade,
You have your opinion of people and I have mine. I have the luxury and advantage of knowing them and you don't. Red and I go all the way back to High
School. In addition and more important, I know the whole story and you don't. You also haven't earned the right to question my loyalty to Elvis, that loyalty
has been proven by my deeds numerous times.
As for the tone of the book that was the doing of the sleazeball writer Steve Dunleavy not the three guys. They had no say so as to the finished product.
The best thing I can wish for you is to have friends and brothers like them in your lifetime.
By the way, nobody's asking you to like us.
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Candy Asks Marty: [09.11.10]
In reference to Nick S. who wrote you about the Dade county coliseum concert and Elvis' stomach cramps..
I am assuming that is due to his colon problem. Elvis had severe colon problems and also,,my opinion, that is what probably took his life. He, not nice, but was
straining..
I do disagree with dr. nick's statement in his book, that the only time elvis was addicted , was when he was being given injections that were supposed to be
acupuncture....Nick knew...or why else was he giving him placebos and had a nurse on call to supposedly 'dispense' his drugs for safety reasons.
According to reports I have read, dan warlick found three empty syringes in three different areas of elvis' private quarters, yet his bathroom had been cleaned
of everything.
Marty, I know this has been beaten to death....but those who were still around saw the progression of the drugs,,,something should have been done. I have
said this to you before and I don't think I made myself clear,,,but from the view of a fan,,,,Elvis had taken on a pasty, unheathly, swollen faced look.
The long hair and sideburns made him look shabby and unkept,,but the look i speak of was a look of not only unhealthiness but one of despair....
I know the stories of how his anger and nobody could tell him anything,,but something should have been done. This icon, this man who was 'supposed to be' ,
lying there dead at 42 still makes me ponder what the complete and total cause of death was.
Some say polypharmacy, some say the colon, straining,,,some say just plain overdose,,,but to die alone after all those years of surrounding himself with you
guys, his friends, is sad.
Vernon was in the position to act, but too selfish, not to mention that damned colonel...he disgusts me to this day....yet priscilla went along with him for
$$$$$$$$$.
I do believe that when a persons' mission in life is over, they go,,,maybe his was over.
I think Elvis was having trouble trying to fit into a music scene that was changing,,,and as you tried to advise him to get different material...he didn't.
Good luck with you beale street NOTE....and I would hope that people would be smart enough to realize you had MANY accomplishments,,,not just a job with
Elvis.
Love ya, Candy
Marty Says:
Candy,
You are right, it has been beaten to death.
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Nick S Asks Marty: [06.11.10]
Marty,
In regards to Elvis, are you aware of the RARE LIVE PERFORMANCE from the DADE COUNTY COLISEUM which took place in Madison Wisconsin on June
24th 1977? Did you know that during this show Elvis complained of stomach cramps and almost passed out after the show. I have the DVD and I have watched
the show. It is rare fan footage. But, I did not know he complained about his stomach. I am gonna watch this show right after this message gets sent.
Marty Says:
Hello Nick,
I know nothing of that as I wasn't there nor have I heard it from the guys that were. Stomach cramps were nothing new for him and I doubt they were serious
otherwise he would have done something about it.
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William Rauhuff Asks Marty: [28.10.10]
I have been reading the Elvis Express about the picture of Elvis in his coffin was perhaps taken by David Stanley possible instead of a cousin named Bobby
Mann. Man if this is true that is about as low as you can get. I never trusted any of the Stanley family especially the low life mother. What was Vernon thinking
by marrying her anyway? Who do YOU believe really cared about Elvis the most and what is your favorite Elvis musical period. Mine is 1969-1970. As always
thanks for your time and answers.
Marty Says:
Hello William,
Yeah that is the lowest of the low and the Stanley's are capable of hitting that level. The name given out back then was Billy Mann Sr. not Bobby. Bobby Mann
actually died before Elvis did. Most of us always wondered how he could have done that because if he did come to the house to pay his respects, he would not
have been left alone at the casket because we all knew Elvis did not like or trust him, to the point where when Elvis was alive he was no longer allowed in the
house by Elvis' orders. That picture would have had to be taken late at night when the public was not around.
Now according to what I heard, Dick Grob and David were two of the people that guarded the casket all night but I don't know who else did. That would have
been the opportune time to take the pictures but I do not know who actually did. However, I see no reason for Generoso Pope's son to lie about it and I also
don't know how else he would have David's or Billy Mann's name.
As to who really cared about Elvis, there were most of the original guys, Billy Smith, Lamar Fike, Red & Sonny West, Joe Esposito, Richard Davis, Alan Fortas,
Charlie Hodge and me. The guys that came later were not like those of us from the early years who basically grew up with Elvis. Nor according to Elvis' own
statements, did he feel the same way towards them as he did us nor did he trust them as much.
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Chad from USA Asks Marty: [25.10.10]
Hi Marty,
Lisa Marie recently did a interview with Oprah. I'd be curious to know your comments regarding what she said. Her resembelence to Elvis is remarkable.
http://tv.yahoo.com/daytime/video/oprah-the-early-show/22208427/
Thanks!
Marty Says:
Hello Chad,
Lisa seems to have gotten a bit wiser about the realities of life around her father and the guys around him. However, not all of us were there for what we could
get but were there because we cared about him and some of the guys.
We all basically grew up together. I speak of the original,early guys not the ones who came later. However there were a couple of original, who shall remain
nameless, who were always looking to get something from him.
She at one time resembled Elvis but now she looks more like his first cousin, Patsy Presley. She has also gotten a bit pudgy.
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Arun Jassi Asks Marty: [22.10.10]
Hello Marty,
I have read and heard so many people who knew Elvis, whether as a friend or an acquaintance or even meeting him for the first and only time, say that Elvis
was even more handsome in person than he was in photographs or screen.
My question is, if what they say is true, how can that be possible? Was Elvis REALLY better-looking in person than in pictures? Did he have an aura, in
essence, that was able to have that kind of effect on people?
Thank you Marty.
Marty Says:
Hi Arun,
Elvis was a very good looking man as most people know but his charisma and magnetism made him even more attractive when you met him in person. Most
people that met him were so excited that their state of mind made him look even more handsome.
In line with that, here's a story. His cousin Gene Smith, who Elvis grew up with, once said to him," Cuz, I ain't gay but you are the prettiest thing I ever saw in my
life."
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Nick S Asks Marty: [21.10.10]
When Elvis did the 9th take of Frankenfort Special, medium tempo, he was supposed to sing the line after the second verse...
Go Special Go, Blow Whistle Blow Frankfort Special got a special way go, followed by Whoah Oh Oh..
My question is if he missed that line and sang Whoah Oh Oh instead, he'll yell "Hell! Hell!" when he made a mistake.
Why did he say that?
Marty Says:
Hello Nick,
I'm sorry but the only thing I can say is...I have no idea.
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Candy Asks Marty: [15.10.10]
Of course we all wish Elvis' life had turned out different, but I think he would be surprised to know the question he asked marion cocke,,,'do you think they will
remember me'?...is a resounding YES.
I cannot understand why Elvis didn't see just how big an influence he was/had on people.
Do you think it was because he was so cocooned, or that he just didn't take himself that seriously?
I know it is all over now Marty, but it still just is a mystery to me that he couldn't understand HE was the big deal and that anyone could have managed him
better than that carnival nut , parker.
It is also shocking to read the things that people actually believe and print about him.
Also...I had mentioned in another email that Vernon had made a disparaging remark whilst both were hospitalized about Elvis being the cause of Gladys
dying...you said you hadn't heard that, but if I am not mistaken , it is a quoted in the MM Revelations book...either Billy or Lamar said it.
Marty Says:
Candy,
That question to Keisker was made before he really got to be the icon he was. As the years went by he was very well aware of the impact he had on people
and the extraordinary level of superstardom he had achieved.
In the later years he knew someone could manage him better but he both was loyal and afraid to break loose from Parker.
Much has been written about him after he died by people who never spent one minute with him or us, they're all giving their uninformed opinion based on
other things they've read or heard but as usual what they read and heard was bullshit too. Some who were around him wrote things to fit their own agenda to
make themselves look good or did it so fans will buy something from them and to make themselves look good to them or feel better about himself. Some of us
are firm believers in what Elvis and we used to repeat every now and then,"The Truth Shall Set You Free!"
I learned a very longtime ago, two things, one, usually a lie will come back to bite you in the ass later and Secondly, you better have a very good memory,
because once you lie about something, you better remember what your initial answer was the next time you're asked the same question.
I still have not heard that Vernon said that but it would not surprise me if he did, but at that time he did accuse Elvis of giving him the heart attack that he was
in the hospital for. However I doubt he ever thanked Elvis for the sweet and easy life he provided him because of his fame and fortune.
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Jim Z in Toronto, Canada Asks Marty: [13.10.10]
I recently read that you thought Elvis missed a lot of opportunities to record some major hits that went to other performers such as "I Honestly Love You" by
Olivia Newton John.
Can you name some of the hit songs that could have been a bigger hit for Elvis (in your opinion) had he recorded them? He did great live versions of some of
Olivia's other big hits. I think Elvis would have done a superb job of "The Games People Play" (Joe South hit). The Kenny Rogers hit "The Gambler" would be
another one.
Marty Says:
Hello Jim,
Just to name a few. 'Let's Stay Together', 'The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face', 'I Gotcha'. There were so many more too numerous to mention.
He also should have recorded some of the hits of others that he did on stage that he might have gotten first if Parker wasn't involved like 'Sweet Caroline',
'Never Been To Spain' and others.
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Nick Serio Asks Marty: [13.10.10]
Back in the late 60s Colonel Parker got a call from Red Robinson from Vancouver Canada. The whole phone conversation goes when Red got a hold of Tom
Moffet and Tom told him he'll be able to get a-hold of the Colonel. In the telephone conversation, Red Robinson congratulates the colonel with the new LP
"With Elvis".
Red wanted to know if it was possible to talk to Elvis but was told the colonel was the man to call. There was mention of MGM and Culver City, CA in this
conversation too. Red Robinson asked him, "Is there any chance in the foreseeable future that could encompass a year or two of Elvis doing a tour again
around the parts of the world he never been? Colonel's reply on the phone was, "Well you know, the problem is I've had a bad back and he won't go on tour
unless I set it up and right now I cannot set up these tours, it's hard you know.
My last question was when do you believe this telephone conversation took place?
Marty Says:
Nick,
Another of Parker's bullshit excuses to keep Elvis from touring out of the country because, as we learned after Elvis died, Parker was an illegal alien and he
was afraid he couldn't get back in the country because he had no passport.
He used that back problem for 20 years when he didn't want to do something. Elvis could have gone overseas with Diskin and Jerry Weintraub but Parker
thought if he wasn't there he'd get cheated out of a dollar. Even though he didn't mind cheating Elvis.
I have no idea when that phone conversation took place. Parker did a lot of those things without us knowing about it. No telling what he turned down for Elvis
without Elvis knowing about it. If it didn't suit Parker it didn't get done regardless of what Elvis might have wanted.
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Ken Jewell Asks Marty: [10.10.10]
Marty,
We all know that Elvis’ Catalog was too deep for him to sing all of his hits. I am wondering why he you thought he didn’t sing 'If I Can Dream' in concert after
the 68 special? Do you think it was because he gave a performance he couldn’t ever top again? Also, wondering why 'Power of My Love' from the American
Sessions-wasn’t a concert song? I have always thought he “killed” that song and would have even sounded better live with the crowd urging him on? Your
thoughts? Are there any songs you thought he should have added to the concert set list.
Thanks for your open transparency.
Elvis Fan in NC
Marty Says:
Hello Ken,
It's possible that he felt those songs were not good for live performances for him and he wouldn't be comfortable singing them on stage.
There are certain songs that are best left to the recording studio because you can do as many takes as you want until you get it the way you want it.
I think he should have changed up his songs from time to time in concerts but he was a creature of habits. He definitely should have done some of his early
hits from '54 to '62 and then add current hits like Suspicious Minds and Ghetto. Then maybe add a song or two that fit him that were hits by other people. He
definitely should not have done many of the lame movie songs and the later crap given to him by Parker and Hill & Range.
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Jim in Toronto Asks Marty: [29.09.10]
Marty could you please gives us your opinion on the new "Suspicious Minds" release from the soon to be released "Viva Elvis" album? I was wondering if you
heard it yet (perhaps off You Tube as I did) and what your opinion might be concerning the "modification" of Elvis' music. I think it's interesting what they can
do with technology today but I'm not sure anyone should be touching Elvis' Masterpieces. As far as I'm concerned Elvis' music was perfect just as it was
recorded using the technology of the day. It can't be re-created or perfected in any way. I know you were involved with some of Elvis' recordings from 1969.
What do you think and what would Elvis think????
Marty Says:
Hi Jim,
I only heard it briefly on YouTube and it doesn't sit well with me. The original version cut at American Studios was the one Elvis okayed to be released. It was
#1 on the charts. I don't like it when people get cute and try to better the original, especially when the original was a hit and it was the one Elvis wanted
released.
I feel the same way about all the alternate takes they have put out over the years just to milk the fans out of more money. If Elvis and the producer thought the
alternate takes were good they would have been released back then but they didn't think so. Suspicious Minds is a classic and they shouldn't tamper with it.
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Al the Canadian Mountie Asks Marty: [09.09.10]
Hi Marty,
I heard a lot of rumor regarding the belt that Elvis gave to Jack Lord's wife Marie. I heard that he gave her the Aloha belt after the rehearsal show and they
had to make another one for the telecast show and they got it at the last minutes before the telecast by Satellite. I also heard that he gave her a belt in Las
Vegas in February 1973. Could you shed light on this?
The other day I was listening to Elvis in my car and I was wondering about Elvis. When Elvis was travelling in his car around Memphis in late 70's, did he listen
to radio, his own music or did he have 8 tracks in his cars? If he had 8 tracks what did he listen too.
Thank you again my friend and God bless you.
Marty Says:
Hi Al,
That is true about Marie Lord and both belts. For some reason Elvis liked Jack and Marie very much and did things those couple of times with them that he
didn't do with other celebrities.
Elvis listened to the radio in the car at sometimes and usually listening to the pop/rock station WHBQ but he didn't listen to his records usually except when he
received the dubs right after a session. No 8 tracks in the car but we did have a tape machine hooked up in the customized bus in the 60's and listened to
tapes I made of his favorite songs while going back and forth across country.
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Candy Asks Marty: [09.09.10]
I heard Ann Margret say on you tube with Charlie Rose, that Elvis was in essence 'made fun of'...and why couldn't nice things have been said about him while
he was here.
Do you think she was speaking of his being from the south? We do get made fun of.
Also...I know Frank Sinatra made fun of Elvis in the beginning, but later changed his attitude...how did all this make Elvis feel?
I just read your response to JIM from Ontario concerning Vernon's attitude toward Elvis' health..
That hospital visit you mentioned where Vernon accused Elvis of causing his heart attack...is it true that he also said Elvis had killed Gladys? That he worried
her to death? Or is that a myth?
Also..I think Vernon had great reason not to trust Dr. Nick (even though I agree with Dr. Nick's assessment of what killed Elvis), Vernon had every right to be
highly suspect of a lot of Elvis' friends at that time.
Do you think Elvis was distancing himself from all you guys because he was 'growing up' and didn't need all the security that you as types of "brothers"
provided, or do you think it was because he just didn't care anymore?
Thanks as always Marty.
Marty Says:
Candy,
I do not know if Vernon said that about Elvis and his mother. I have never heard that.
It wasn't just a case of Vernon not trusting or highly suspect of the guys, especially the original guys, it was why he was that way. Nobody, with the exception
of a couple of the guys, ever gave Elvis a reason that they could not be trusted. As for Nick, he was the lesser of all evils as far as Doctors were concerned,he
did care for Elvis. His problem was he just caught up in a lifestyle he shouldn't have and he just should have remained in his doctor's practice and not travelled
with Elvis. He was also highly influenced by Esposito and they both used each other when it came to get things from Elvis. Nick was out of his element and
Esposito took advantage of it. Vernon was that way because he trusted nobody,he thought everyone was out to get what they could from Elvis and then Elvis
would go broke and then Vernon might have to go back to work which he hated.
My first reaction when Elvis pushed some of us away was telling Billy, "Good, he should have done that a long time ago." It was Elvis who demanded we
always be there even after I quit the payroll. That wasn't easy on our families to be with him all that time. He also was a bit screwed up. He also still had guys
around him but with the exception of 3 of them, they were all young guys who he could preach to and tell his tired old stories and con them. However, after
awhile he told Billy, who he mainly was around 24/7, that he missed the old guys and that he didn't trust the new guys like he did us.
Even though we didn't see him that last year, I knew he still cared about me and he knew I still cared about him and we last spoke on the phone in July '77, a
month before he died.
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Jim in Toronto Asks Marty: [06.09.10]
Marty could you please comment on Vernon’s perception of Elvis’ failing health in the final few months of Elvis’ life?
I know he was sick too but did he realize what was happening to Elvis? Could he have made Elvis help himself?
I have always wondered why Vernon had such little influence on Elvis in those final months (perhaps you know better). I’ve never really heard anyone
comment on this particular topic either over the years. I would love to hear your comments on this subject.
Marty Says:
Hello Jim,
It might have something to do with Vernon accusing Elvis of being the cause of Vernon's heart attack when they were both in Baptist Hospital. Elvis went to
Vernon's room to see how he was and that's what Vernon said to him.
Although they loved each other their was always an undercurrent of Vernon's jealousy and worrying about money. Elvis did a lot for his father in that area and
it seemed like the roles reversed.
I was not there the last few months as I had moved to California but from what a couple of the guys told me Vernon was publicly in denial about Elvis' pill
taking. He also didn't trust Dr. Nick and that had to do with money too.
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Terry Asks Marty: [02.09.10]
Thank you so much for your time for the Elvis fans.
I know that you don't like Priscilla, but in the DVD Elvis by the Presley's she says good things about Elvis and some bad about the Colonel.
She also says that the Colonel had no respect for the artist Elvis Presley. I think that Priscilla did good things too, and it was not always easy for her
living with Elvis.
Marty, is it true that there was almost no money when Elvis passed away?
And why did they filmed the CBS Concert in 1977? What do you think felt Elvis about that? Yes I believe also that if Elvis had done a world tour or making a
good movie he could lived longer than 42.
What about the movie A star is born in 1975, is it true that Elvis wanted to do that movie?
I think that Elvis was the greatest artist ever, what do you think Marty?
Marty, thank you very much
Marty Says:
Hello Terry,
Priscilla may have said a negative thing about the Colonel in the DVD but that was after he had died. While he was alive she sucked up to him, especially after
Elvis died and she wanted to keep doing business with him but the Probate Judge in Memphis made her stop because of all the shady deals he did that Elvis
did not get any part of. She's what is known as a fair weather friend. Yes, she said nice things about Elvis because she knew if she didn't the fans may not
come to Graceland and that would deprive her of making money.
There was very little money compared to what he made in his career but he spent a lot of it and there were no investments made in his twenty two year career
to protect his money but he still had around $7.5 Million.
They did the CBS concert film because Parker wanted more money. In my opinion they shouldn't have done it and even though they did it, they shouldn't
have shown it after Elvis died because of the shape he was in. That is the cause of the media and their Fat Elvis remarks.
Elvis wanted to do 'A Star Is Born' but Parker talked him out of it because he didn't want him exposed to Barbra Streisand who he feared would tell Elvis things
about the business end of entertaining, she's always been a smart businesswoman.
Yes, I agree Elvis was the most famous entertainer in history.
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William Rauhuff Asks Marty: [02.09.10]
Any truth to the story that Elvis wore 2 inch heels on stage so he would be 6:2?
I have read he was 6:0, 6:1, 6:2 and 5:11 not that it matters but how tall was Elvis?
How often do you see the rest of the MM? Is everybody still in pretty good health? I have read somewhere that Lamar has had some health issues.
Have a great Labor Day Marty
Marty Says:
Hello William,
Elvis was around 5'11" but he wore lifts in his shoes and a higher than normal heel on his boots which made him look a bit taller.
I see Billy a lot as he lives close by from Memphis in Mississippi, Billy and his wife Jo are like family to me and my family, we have always been close. Jo and my
wife Patsy are Best Friends. I speak with Lamar everyday and yes, he is in cancer remission and lives in Texas. I speak with Sonny every once in awhile and
when he comes to Memphis from his home outside of Nashville, we have breakfast at least one day of his visit. I speak with Red about three or four times a
year he lives on the Gulf Coast of Mississippi.
Other than that I don't speak to or see anyone else and that's by choice,neither do the four I mentioned. When Richard Davis was alive I spoke with him about
once a week and when Alan Fortas was alive and especially while he had cancer, I would go see him and take him to lunch.
You have a great Labor Day too.
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