Tag Archives: Elvis fan

Elvis Presley – Ramblings of a Lifelong Fan – Part XIII – Quotes by Elvis

Elvis has been quoted many, many times over the years. In some of the quotes, his vulnerability and insecurity come through. In some, his wisdom, and in others, his love for his fans. Those who were close to Elvis emphasized how much he loved and appreciated his fans. In spite of his unparalleled success, he never forgot how it came to be.

 

Here are some of my favorites…

elvis_presley_quote_30x20 NO SAINTquote - comic booksjames dean etcjesusoceanshirt quote 2 HOllywood musicquote-the-lord-can-give-and-the-lord-can-take-away-i-might-be-herding-sheep-next-year-elvis-presley-148538

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Elvis Presley – Ramblings of a Lifelong Fan – Part 12 – Fans Share Their Thoughts

Today, I have asked a handful of other Elvis fans to join me in sharing what he means to them. A few of them are my sisters and a few I met through an awesome Elvis Facebook page:  Elvis Presley on Facebook

I asked them to answer the following questions and share some of their favorite photos:

How long have you been an Elvis fan? 
 
How did you become an Elvis fan?
 
Although I know it’s almost impossible to put into words, what do you love about Elvis?
 
What is your favorite memory of Elvis?
 
I realize it’s difficult, if not impossible, for an Elvis fan to name their favorites, please give us one of your favorite songs and movies and why. 
 
 

Gabriela Curt from Buenos Aires, Argentina…

I‘ve been an Elvis fan for more than 30 years. I became an Elvis fan watching his movies on TV in the seventies.

I love almost everything about Elvis. I love the way he looked, his amazing voice. But most of all I love the person he was. That he was a caring person, his spirituality, his search for a greater knowledge, his sensitivity, and the fact that he was a giving person. His life philosophy, the way he smiled, the tender look in his eyes. I also think he was a forgiving person, and I feel he put others’ needs ahead of his own. I know I didn’t have the chance to meet him in person, but this is how I feel after hearing his many interviews, and also because of the things some of his closest friends have said. I love that he was human, and he had the ability to show himself as a real person. He was sincere with people around him and his fans. I‘ve listened to many live concerts in which he talked to the audience as if he was talking among friends. Although I know he wasn’t perfect, he was the closest to perfection. He wasn’t afraid of being himself, and if he was nervous he would let the audience know it. The one thing I admire the most about him, is that he was a man of his word; he was generous in so many ways, I learned he gave a woman he didn’t even know a car; not for the material fact, but because I find it as a symbol of his generosity.

Unfortunately he died when I was only 9 years old, but by that time I’d watched most of his movies. I was devastated when he died. I couldn’t see or listen to him, until last year. I started taking singing lessons and I had to choose the songs I wanted to learn, as I was making amends with some persons and situations in my life, I chose “Always on my Mind”. That’s when I began listening to Elvis again. One song led to another, until I found on August 2013, the 2005 movie: “Elvis The Mini Series”. It starts with Elvis minutes before the 1968 Comeback Special, and then it jumps back directly to 1952, and starts telling his story. It shows some of the fights he had with the Colonel about the movies and his desire of becoming a serious actor, and singing opera. It also caught my attention the relationship he had with his hairdresser, Larry Geller, and all the talks they had about religion and spiritual matters. The Colonel, forbidding Elvis and Larry being together alone, and also, putting a time limit of 2 hours to their meetings!!! It also shows Elvis feeling sick when he has going to shoot a new movie.  Let me tell you, it touched my heart and soul.  I cried all through the movie and for a few more days. And then I watched it again. It was a wakeup call!! I was trying to do some changes in my life but I haven’t had the courage to do them till then. The one thing that gave me the courage was seeing what he went through doing things, such as the movies and never becoming the serious actor he wanted to be. It also shows his temper, but what the heck, he’s human!!! In so many levels he is an example to me. In my own way, I try to do what he had done helping people. I think he gave us so much more than his music.

My favourite song is: “Bridge over Troubled Water”, it has become my inspiration every time I ‘m feeling down, especially when he sings: Sail on Silver Girl… I feel somehow Elvis ‘s talking to me.

My favorite movie is: “Change of Habit” because of the message it gives about following your own bliss.

10551086_775092389179244_3632047462062571102_n ElvisPresley-22

 

 

Angel from Minnesota…

I have been an Elvis fan consciously since I was 5 years old – exsposed to him always as my aunts, parents and Grandma all listened to his music at different times in my life.

I became a true Elvis fan when I saw him on television for the first time.. I remember being star struck, standing motionless in awe. He was the most fantastic thing I had ever seen in my five years! From that point on, I had posters, garage sale cassette tapes and Elvis in my heart! My grandmother visited Graceland when I was very young, returning with photos and souvenirs just for me!! It was quite special…

What I love about Elvis – impossible to describe – as best I can, I will say he’s beautiful inside.. his heart was like a flowing fountain, his generosity and charitable good deeds made him like an Angel to a lot of struggling people. He was funny, laughing and being silly is the key to a personalities loving existence  and he sure had it! He was smart and looked for deeper meaning, he was spiritual and wanted to know his purpose – because of his influence, I began to seek the same answers about life for myself… I will always be thankful to Elvis for pointing me down that path. … he was gorgeous – seeeexaaa!! Adonis! More so because of the inside, but definitely on the outside too!!! He had raw sex appeal – the best part is, he knew it and worked it like a magician works magic… there is yet to be another star who can do that. And then – the music… always there for me – to cry – to laugh – to sing – to dance- to mourn – to celebrate – to pass a rainy day – to brush my cares away – to wake – to eat – to sleep – its always a good time to have Elvis…. even if there is no sound, I can sing his every word, endless, timeless. He will always be there.

So hard to pick one favorite song – but if it must be one, it would be the one I sing most often – ”lead me, guide me”. – when I need strength and I am feeling flustered for one reason or another, I always catch myself going there for comfort. My favorite movie is ”king Creole” – I am a huge fan of Carolyn Jones and her and Elvis are my favorite on screen couple…

My Facebook Page:  https://www.facebook.com/ElvisPresleymylove

 

 

 

IMG_20140503_025535

Photoshop of Elvis and I

IMG_10204116805002IMG_20140519_125636images-89

 

Ruth Zimmerman from Miami, Oklahoma (My sister)

How long have you been an Elvis fan? How did you become an Elvis fan?

I have been an Elvis fan since I was 5….45 years!

My sister, Alicia, came in our bedroom saying “Hurry Ruth! That guy is on t.v. that momma thinks is so cute!” I followed her & ended up laying on the floor staring at this GORGEOUS creature in Harum Scarum! I never knew a turban could be so sexy!

There are many, many things about Elvis I love! #1 is his drop-dread, out of this world looks! I made a comment at work one time that he literally DRIPPED with sex! It grossed a few out & I was like….gross??? That’s not the 1st thought that came to my mind!!

I love his music! No better singer….ever!!!!!!! The fact that he loved & respected his momma so much! He never forgot his roots OR who gave him this Heavenly voice….our Lord & Savior…Jesus Christ!

Through the years…I figured out what I TRULY loved about Elvis, which is the most important thing! He became a constant in my relationships with my sisters!! We have all 5 loved him, shared him, & appreciated each others love for him! I am not saying we NEEDED Elvis to have a close, loving sister-hood. But we will never know…will we?

I have so many favorite memories of Elvis:

Seeing him in concert for the very 1st time…at the ripe old age of 11…with my sisters! We were finally seeing ELVIS in person!!

Also…Me & my husband taking my sister, Alicia to Memphis for her 40th birthday! We finally got to experience “Elvis Land” together!!!

If I had to pick JUST 1??? I guess it would be seeing him in concert in May of 1977. Little did I know that was the last time I would get to experience the magic of a live Elvis concert. I wish I would have appreciated it more….but I don’t know how I could have??? Again….just as all Elvis memories…my sisters were there sharing that spell bounding night with me & my EP! 

SONG….”Bridge Over Troubled Water” It kind of became my anthem to my sister Alicia! As my older sister….she had been there for me many times in my life. My other sisters had too but Alicia & I shared a closeness that’s hard to explain. When she had went thru some rough times in her life & I got the chance to return the favor (s)….albeit minimal to what she had done….This song was playing as I was thinking of how I could help her like she had helped me. And that’s when I decided…I would always be her “Bridge Over Troubled Water”!

MOVIE….I am assuming you don’t want us to include documentaries??? My all time favorite on screen Elvis was his ’68 Comeback Special! But if you want a Hollywood scripted movie??? “Live A Little….Love A Little” WHY??? He never, ever looked sexier & showed his “manness” like he did in that movie! Well….can I also add “Change Of Habit?” Same reasons!

ruth

 

 

Christi from Moore, Oklahoma (another sister) 

I have been an Elvis fan my entire life. I was born into it-some kids were rocked to sleep with lullabies…for me it was Elvis songs. 

I love his smile, his eyes when he smiles….his gorgeous face…I love how Elvis interacted with people and I love how he has fans being born today 37 years after his death. I love how Elvis bonds friends, sisters, mothers & daughter and families. He is just like no other. 

I did not get to go to an Elvis concert. I do not even have memories of a world that had Elvis living….My favorite memory of Elvis is growing up an Elvis fan, growing up being part of something very special. Being an Elvis fan is special and wonderful-being a Robertson girl is too. Being both is rare and a gift there are only 5 of us in the world.

Favorite movie: Jailhouse Rock, Clambake

Favorite Song:  Love Me, If I Can Dream, One Night, Suspicious Minds, Devil in Disguise

This is too hard and these are not my only favorites at all-there are way  too many!

christi 3

Graceland pics me and my girls

🙂 And a few of my favorites of Elvis!

christi 2christi

 

 

Tommy French, Louisville, Ky. USA.

I have been an Elvis fan since age 14. When Elvis passed away no one in my family listened to Elvis, so I wondered what was so special about Elvis that the entire world was mourning his passing. So, between his death and the winter tv season, there were numerous special about his life that I watched, then in January 1978, I sent off for a Elvis album advertised on tv, and when I got it, the first time I played it, I was hooked, and I knew it would be something that would last the rest of my life. There are many things I love about Elvis. His talent of course. And I can appreciate his 50’s style because he was different, and radical, and his created a new and entirely different style of music. Then, there is his ability to communicate a song in such a way, that everyone listening feels as if he is talking directly to them. I appreciate his willingness to serve his country when called upon to do so. Then, there is the fact that Elvis was a God fearing Christian man, and sought to bring the gospel message of Jesus Christ to his fans. And that he was sincere in that presentation. In his 70’s style, there were several elements I appreciate. One is his sound being created by some of the best musicians ever assembled in one band. His use of the best Southern Gospel quartet in the business at that time satisfies my love of quartet singing. The Sweet Inspirations were great, and his use of an orchestra and the vocals of Kathy Westmoreland satisfies my love of Classical music. Then, Elvis stage outfits, being a combination of Victorian, and Colonial or Georgian style, satisfies my love of that period of history. As far as how Elvis has impacted my life, there have been many lonely periods of my life, my divorce 23 years ago for example. Besides the Lord’s presence in life, Elvis’ music helped take my mind off of the sting of that period. As far as my favorite song is concerned, I have two, I’ve Lost You, and American Trilogy. As far as movies go, I have two favorites, Charro, and Change of Habit, because I feel he showed some great acting ability in each of these two.

 

Auburn “Rusty” Jaquess

I have been an Elvis fan all my life. My sister Evelyn was an Elvis groupie on the 50s.

Everything. The respect he showed others, his charisma, his voice, his impact on my life, etc….

My dad, and JD Sumners were friends for years, and we went to watch the Stamps a lot in the 60s. As you know he became backup for Elvis. Which sets up my favorites memory. Elvis was performing in Ft Worth, Texas. My dad called JD, and told him how big a groupie I had become in the 70s going from concert to concert. JD set it up so I could go backstage with my brother to get his autograph. I was at that moment transported to heaven. Even though the four girls behind me pretty much had his attention.

I lived, and breathed Elvis. I would listen to his records in the morning when I was getting ready for school. If any of his movies came to town, or on TV I couldn’t resist no matter how,many times I’ve seen them. He was always there, and knowing that made life easier. When he passed when I was in college it devastated me for years, and I know I’m not the same person now that I was then.

Favorites song? That is a hard one if I had to choose one I would choose his favorites ” If I Can Dream”. Movie? Again I would choose his favorites ” King Creole”

Rusty Rusty'sfavpic

 

 

 

 

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Elvis Presley – Ramblings of a Lifelong Fan – Part 12 – Fans Share Their Thoughts

Today, I have asked a handful of other Elvis fans to join me in sharing what he means to them. A few of them are my sisters and a few I met through an awesome Elvis Facebook page:  Elvis Presley on Facebook

I asked them to answer the following questions and share some of their favorite photos:

How long have you been an Elvis fan? 
 
How did you become an Elvis fan?
 
Although I know it’s almost impossible to put into words, what do you love about Elvis?
 
What is your favorite memory of Elvis?
 
I realize it’s difficult, if not impossible, for an Elvis fan to name their favorites, please give us one of your favorite songs and movies and why. 
 
 

Gabriela Curt from Buenos Aires, Argentina…

I‘ve been an Elvis fan for more than 30 years. I became an Elvis fan watching his movies on TV in the seventies.

I love almost everything about Elvis. I love the way he looked, his amazing voice. But most of all I love the person he was. That he was a caring person, his spirituality, his search for a greater knowledge, his sensitivity, and the fact that he was a giving person. His life philosophy, the way he smiled, the tender look in his eyes. I also think he was a forgiving person, and I feel he put others’ needs ahead of his own. I know I didn’t have the chance to meet him in person, but this is how I feel after hearing his many interviews, and also because of the things some of his closest friends have said. I love that he was human, and he had the ability to show himself as a real person. He was sincere with people around him and his fans. I‘ve listened to many live concerts in which he talked to the audience as if he was talking among friends. Although I know he wasn’t perfect, he was the closest to perfection. He wasn’t afraid of being himself, and if he was nervous he would let the audience know it. The one thing I admire the most about him, is that he was a man of his word; he was generous in so many ways, I learned he gave a woman he didn’t even know a car; not for the material fact, but because I find it as a symbol of his generosity.

Unfortunately he died when I was only 9 years old, but by that time I’d watched most of his movies. I was devastated when he died. I couldn’t see or listen to him, until last year. I started taking singing lessons and I had to choose the songs I wanted to learn, as I was making amends with some persons and situations in my life, I chose “Always on my Mind”. That’s when I began listening to Elvis again. One song led to another, until I found on August 2013, the 2005 movie: “Elvis The Mini Series”. It starts with Elvis minutes before the 1968 Comeback Special, and then it jumps back directly to 1952, and starts telling his story. It shows some of the fights he had with the Colonel about the movies and his desire of becoming a serious actor, and singing opera. It also caught my attention the relationship he had with his hairdresser, Larry Geller, and all the talks they had about religion and spiritual matters. The Colonel, forbidding Elvis and Larry being together alone, and also, putting a time limit of 2 hours to their meetings!!! It also shows Elvis feeling sick when he has going to shoot a new movie.  Let me tell you, it touched my heart and soul.  I cried all through the movie and for a few more days. And then I watched it again. It was a wakeup call!! I was trying to do some changes in my life but I haven’t had the courage to do them till then. The one thing that gave me the courage was seeing what he went through doing things, such as the movies and never becoming the serious actor he wanted to be. It also shows his temper, but what the heck, he’s human!!! In so many levels he is an example to me. In my own way, I try to do what he had done helping people. I think he gave us so much more than his music.

My favourite song is: “Bridge over Troubled Water”, it has become my inspiration every time I ‘m feeling down, especially when he sings: Sail on Silver Girl… I feel somehow Elvis ‘s talking to me.

My favorite movie is: “Change of Habit” because of the message it gives about following your own bliss.

10551086_775092389179244_3632047462062571102_n ElvisPresley-22

 

 

Angel from Minnesota…

I have been an Elvis fan consciously since I was 5 years old – exsposed to him always as my aunts, parents and Grandma all listened to his music at different times in my life.

I became a true Elvis fan when I saw him on television for the first time.. I remember being star struck, standing motionless in awe. He was the most fantastic thing I had ever seen in my five years! From that point on, I had posters, garage sale cassette tapes and Elvis in my heart! My grandmother visited Graceland when I was very young, returning with photos and souvenirs just for me!! It was quite special…

What I love about Elvis – impossible to describe – as best I can, I will say he’s beautiful inside.. his heart was like a flowing fountain, his generosity and charitable good deeds made him like an Angel to a lot of struggling people. He was funny, laughing and being silly is the key to a personalities loving existence  and he sure had it! He was smart and looked for deeper meaning, he was spiritual and wanted to know his purpose – because of his influence, I began to seek the same answers about life for myself… I will always be thankful to Elvis for pointing me down that path. … he was gorgeous – seeeexaaa!! Adonis! More so because of the inside, but definitely on the outside too!!! He had raw sex appeal – the best part is, he knew it and worked it like a magician works magic… there is yet to be another star who can do that. And then – the music… always there for me – to cry – to laugh – to sing – to dance- to mourn – to celebrate – to pass a rainy day – to brush my cares away – to wake – to eat – to sleep – its always a good time to have Elvis…. even if there is no sound, I can sing his every word, endless, timeless. He will always be there.

So hard to pick one favorite song – but if it must be one, it would be the one I sing most often – ”lead me, guide me”. – when I need strength and I am feeling flustered for one reason or another, I always catch myself going there for comfort. My favorite movie is ”king Creole” – I am a huge fan of Carolyn Jones and her and Elvis are my favorite on screen couple…

My Facebook Page:  https://www.facebook.com/ElvisPresleymylove

 

 

 

IMG_20140503_025535

Photoshop of Elvis and I

IMG_10204116805002IMG_20140519_125636images-89

 

Ruth Zimmerman from Miami, Oklahoma (My sister)

How long have you been an Elvis fan? How did you become an Elvis fan?

I have been an Elvis fan since I was 5….45 years!

My sister, Alicia, came in our bedroom saying “Hurry Ruth! That guy is on t.v. that momma thinks is so cute!” I followed her & ended up laying on the floor staring at this GORGEOUS creature in Harum Scarum! I never knew a turban could be so sexy!

There are many, many things about Elvis I love! #1 is his drop-dread, out of this world looks! I made a comment at work one time that he literally DRIPPED with sex! It grossed a few out & I was like….gross??? That’s not the 1st thought that came to my mind!!

I love his music! No better singer….ever!!!!!!! The fact that he loved & respected his momma so much! He never forgot his roots OR who gave him this Heavenly voice….our Lord & Savior…Jesus Christ!

Through the years…I figured out what I TRULY loved about Elvis, which is the most important thing! He became a constant in my relationships with my sisters!! We have all 5 loved him, shared him, & appreciated each others love for him! I am not saying we NEEDED Elvis to have a close, loving sister-hood. But we will never know…will we?

I have so many favorite memories of Elvis:

Seeing him in concert for the very 1st time…at the ripe old age of 11…with my sisters! We were finally seeing ELVIS in person!!

Also…Me & my husband taking my sister, Alicia to Memphis for her 40th birthday! We finally got to experience “Elvis Land” together!!!

If I had to pick JUST 1??? I guess it would be seeing him in concert in May of 1977. Little did I know that was the last time I would get to experience the magic of a live Elvis concert. I wish I would have appreciated it more….but I don’t know how I could have??? Again….just as all Elvis memories…my sisters were there sharing that spell bounding night with me & my EP! 

SONG….”Bridge Over Troubled Water” It kind of became my anthem to my sister Alicia! As my older sister….she had been there for me many times in my life. My other sisters had too but Alicia & I shared a closeness that’s hard to explain. When she had went thru some rough times in her life & I got the chance to return the favor (s)….albeit minimal to what she had done….This song was playing as I was thinking of how I could help her like she had helped me. And that’s when I decided…I would always be her “Bridge Over Troubled Water”!

MOVIE….I am assuming you don’t want us to include documentaries??? My all time favorite on screen Elvis was his ’68 Comeback Special! But if you want a Hollywood scripted movie??? “Live A Little….Love A Little” WHY??? He never, ever looked sexier & showed his “manness” like he did in that movie! Well….can I also add “Change Of Habit?” Same reasons!

ruth

 

 

Christi from Moore, Oklahoma (another sister) 

I have been an Elvis fan my entire life. I was born into it-some kids were rocked to sleep with lullabies…for me it was Elvis songs. 

I love his smile, his eyes when he smiles….his gorgeous face…I love how Elvis interacted with people and I love how he has fans being born today 37 years after his death. I love how Elvis bonds friends, sisters, mothers & daughter and families. He is just like no other. 

I did not get to go to an Elvis concert. I do not even have memories of a world that had Elvis living….My favorite memory of Elvis is growing up an Elvis fan, growing up being part of something very special. Being an Elvis fan is special and wonderful-being a Robertson girl is too. Being both is rare and a gift there are only 5 of us in the world.

Favorite movie: Jailhouse Rock, Clambake

Favorite Song:  Love Me, If I Can Dream, One Night, Suspicious Minds, Devil in Disguise

This is too hard and these are not my only favorites at all-there are way  too many!

christi 3

Graceland pics me and my girls

🙂 And a few of my favorites of Elvis!

christi 2christi

 

 

Tommy French, Louisville, Ky. USA.

I have been an Elvis fan since age 14. When Elvis passed away no one in my family listened to Elvis, so I wondered what was so special about Elvis that the entire world was mourning his passing. So, between his death and the winter tv season, there were numerous special about his life that I watched, then in January 1978, I sent off for a Elvis album advertised on tv, and when I got it, the first time I played it, I was hooked, and I knew it would be something that would last the rest of my life. There are many things I love about Elvis. His talent of course. And I can appreciate his 50’s style because he was different, and radical, and his created a new and entirely different style of music. Then, there is his ability to communicate a song in such a way, that everyone listening feels as if he is talking directly to them. I appreciate his willingness to serve his country when called upon to do so. Then, there is the fact that Elvis was a God fearing Christian man, and sought to bring the gospel message of Jesus Christ to his fans. And that he was sincere in that presentation. In his 70’s style, there were several elements I appreciate. One is his sound being created by some of the best musicians ever assembled in one band. His use of the best Southern Gospel quartet in the business at that time satisfies my love of quartet singing. The Sweet Inspirations were great, and his use of an orchestra and the vocals of Kathy Westmoreland satisfies my love of Classical music. Then, Elvis stage outfits, being a combination of Victorian, and Colonial or Georgian style, satisfies my love of that period of history. As far as how Elvis has impacted my life, there have been many lonely periods of my life, my divorce 23 years ago for example. Besides the Lord’s presence in life, Elvis’ music helped take my mind off of the sting of that period. As far as my favorite song is concerned, I have two, I’ve Lost You, and American Trilogy. As far as movies go, I have two favorites, Charro, and Change of Habit, because I feel he showed some great acting ability in each of these two.

 

Auburn “Rusty” Jaquess

I have been an Elvis fan all my life. My sister Evelyn was an Elvis groupie on the 50s.

Everything. The respect he showed others, his charisma, his voice, his impact on my life, etc….

My dad, and JD Sumners were friends for years, and we went to watch the Stamps a lot in the 60s. As you know he became backup for Elvis. Which sets up my favorites memory. Elvis was performing in Ft Worth, Texas. My dad called JD, and told him how big a groupie I had become in the 70s going from concert to concert. JD set it up so I could go backstage with my brother to get his autograph. I was at that moment transported to heaven. Even though the four girls behind me pretty much had his attention.

I lived, and breathed Elvis. I would listen to his records in the morning when I was getting ready for school. If any of his movies came to town, or on TV I couldn’t resist no matter how,many times I’ve seen them. He was always there, and knowing that made life easier. When he passed when I was in college it devastated me for years, and I know I’m not the same person now that I was then.

Favorites song? That is a hard one if I had to choose one I would choose his favorites ” If I Can Dream”. Movie? Again I would choose his favorites ” King Creole”

Rusty Rusty'sfavpic

 

 

 

 

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Elvis Presley – Ramblings of a Lifelong Fan – Part 11 – A Quick One

This is going to be brief, but I didn’t want to skip a week. It’s been a very, very busy week. And a sad one. I lost my precious Uncle Peck this morning. He was 95, and he was ready to go, but those he left behind will feel his loss deeply.

 

uncle peck

 

(See, I love him so much, I even posted a pic of him wearing a Sooners cap :))

Also, we learned that my son, Presley, who is twenty-one, has fibromyalgia. That is heartbreaking as well, because he’s such a great kid, such a big-hearted and funny and wonderful young man. I hate the thought of his going through so much pain for the rest of his life. But, we are also extremely grateful, because the doctor was testing him for something more serious, such as possibly ALS. So, while I’m not thrilled about the diagnosis, I’m considering it a blessing.

As always in my life, when times are difficult, Elvis makes me feel better. Therefore, I’ll just share something brief about him. First of all, a funny memory (funny to me). When we were little, I used to tell my sister, Ruth, that when Elvis sang ‘Stuck on You’ he was singing to me because of the line: “I’m gonna run my fingers through your long black hair.” (I had long dark hair). She would get SO mad. 🙂

Now, a beautiful pic:

EP Blue

And, in closing, an amazing performance of Elvis singing How Great Thou Art. This is for you, Uncle Peck.

 

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Elvis Presley – Ramblings of a Lifelong Fan – Part 11 – A Quick One

This is going to be brief, but I didn’t want to skip a week. It’s been a very, very busy week. And a sad one. I lost my precious Uncle Peck this morning. He was 95, and he was ready to go, but those he left behind will feel his loss deeply.

 

uncle peck

 

(See, I love him so much, I even posted a pic of him wearing a Sooners cap :))

Also, we learned that my son, Presley, who is twenty-one, has fibromyalgia. That is heartbreaking as well, because he’s such a great kid, such a big-hearted and funny and wonderful young man. I hate the thought of his going through so much pain for the rest of his life. But, we are also extremely grateful, because the doctor was testing him for something more serious, such as possibly ALS. So, while I’m not thrilled about the diagnosis, I’m considering it a blessing.

As always in my life, when times are difficult, Elvis makes me feel better. Therefore, I’ll just share something brief about him. First of all, a funny memory (funny to me). When we were little, I used to tell my sister, Ruth, that when Elvis sang ‘Stuck on You’ he was singing to me because of the line: “I’m gonna run my fingers through your long black hair.” (I had long dark hair). She would get SO mad. 🙂

Now, a beautiful pic:

EP Blue

And, in closing, an amazing performance of Elvis singing How Great Thou Art. This is for you, Uncle Peck.

 

4 Comments

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Elvis Presley – Ramblings of a Lifelong Fan – Part 10 – The Movies 1-4

Elvis made four films before going into the army. His earlier works were more serious, more dramatic than the ones that would follow after he returned. Ironically, in the media, and in the movies, he was portrayed as this rebellious troublemaking hothead, but in reality, his costars raved about how polite and kind he was.

The first four movies were:

  • Love Me Tender 1956

About: Elvis plays Clint Reno, the youngest of four brothers in the civil war era. His older brothers come home after the end of the war and the oldest, Vance (who the family had been told died), finds Clint married to the girl he loves.

Side note:  When word leaked that Elvis died at the end, fans were so distraught that the studio decided to add an image of him singing “Love Me Tender” on screen as the movie was ending with the scene of his loved ones walking away from his grave.

My favorite song from the movie: Let Me

One of my favorite scenes: When he’s on the porch singing We’re Gonna Move. He was so cute, with his adorable smile and the way he interacted with his family.

 

LoveTenderGun

  • Loving You: 1957

About: Elvis plays Deke Rivers, an orphan who is discovered by an ambitious woman in the music business. She launches Deke to stardom. Deke thought he’d found true friends after a lifetime of searching, but he is crushed to learn she only cares about success.

Side notes:   Elvis’ parents, Gladys and Vernon, were visiting the set and the director put them in the movie as audience members in the final scene. A year later, Elvis would be in the army, and five months after that, Gladys would pass away. Dolores Hart, who played Susan, also co-starred in King Creole. She would eventually become a nun. Elvis’ band, Scotty Moore, Bill Black, DJ Fontana, and the Jordanaires appeared in the movie.

My favorite song from the movie: Mean Woman Blues

One of my favorite scenes: Deke is in a café and this a-hole is giving him a hard time, insists he sing. Deke does, then he asks the guy what he does for a living. The guy tells him he works for his old man installing seat covers. Deke says, well, I normally get paid to sing. How about you do for me what you do for a living and go out there and put a set of seat covers on my car. The guy says sure, I bet your color is yella. Deke proceeds to beat the crap out of him and knocks him into the juke box. The guy is unconscious, leaning back against the juke box and Deke hooks a foot under his leg and tugs, and the guy slides to the ground. I loved Elvis’ fight scenes, and I thought that one was so cool.

 

Loving you

  • Jailhouse Rock: 1957

About: Elvis plays Vince Everett. Early in the movie, he kills a man in a fistfight and is sent to prison, where he meets a washed up country singer who plants the seed of Vince singing professionally. When Vince gets out of prison, he meets a young woman in the music business who helps launch his career, and Vince becomes famous. The fame goes to his head and he ends up hurting the people he loves. (But, it has a happy ending :))

Side note:   Elvis’ co-star, Judy Tyler, and her husband were killed in an automobile accident on the drive home from Hollywood to New York after filming.

My favorite song from the movie: Don’t leave Me Now

My favorite scene: One of my favorite scenes in any Elvis movie. Watch the clip.

 

 

  • King Creole 1958

About: Elvis plays Danny Rivers, a young guy from a poor background whose mother passed away when he was young, and his father fell to pieces and lost one job after another, launching the family into poverty. Danny sees his father as a weakling, and he wants to make something of himself. He gets involved with Maxi Fields, a crime boss, and falls for Maxi’s girl.

Side note:   This was the only movie Elvis was really proud of. He did an amazing job, and it was a phenomenal film. He admired actors like James Dean and Marlon Brando, and had hopes of becoming a serious actor, but the roles he was given afterward were pretty much all fluff (However, they were ‘fluff’ that I loved, and he still did a great job in them).

My favorite song from the movie: Don’t Ask Me Why or Young Dreams or As Long as I Have You.

One of my favorite scenes: Danny is in the club sweeping up and these guys are being mean to Roni, who, as it turns out, is Maxi Fields’ girl. They insist Danny sing and he does, then they ask him what he does for an encore. He ignores them and is leaving when the one guy slaps Roni. Elvis turns around and grabs her and is taking her out when the guys start to rush him. He grabs two beer bottles off a table and breaks off the bottoms and brandishes them at the guys. One of the men says, “You’re a pretty fancy performer, ain’t ya kid?” and Vince says, “Now you know what I do for an encore.”

 

KC

 

Elvis made 31 feature films and I have seen each one of them umpteen times. I’m watching them again, as a refresher, and I think I’m enjoying them now more than I did back then. I only own 26 of the 31 on DVD, but will soon have them all. 🙂

 

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Elvis Presley – Ramblings of a Lifelong Fan – Part 9 – Graceland

Elvis bought Graceland in 1957 for $100,000 for his mother. Sadly, she died a year later. Elvis continued to live there for the rest of his life. I think it’s admirable that he remained in his home town, rather than moving somewhere more upscale or buying lavish homes all over the country. 

Graceland was opened to the public in 1982 and is the third most visited home in the United States. More than 600,000 people from all over the world come to see Elvis’ home each year. I have been to Graceland five times, and I plan to go again. Everyone, especially Elvis fans, should experience Graceland at least once. I cannot fully convey the feeling of being in Elvis’ home. I swear, you can sense his spirit. There is something humbling and awe-inspiring about entering the place where the ‘real’ Elvis dwelled, where he found refuge from the insanity of the outside world. 

 

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My trips to Graceland: 

1978 – The summer after Elvis died, I had the opportunity to go to Nashville and Memphis with a friend and her family. At the time, the house was not open, so we only toured the grounds. 

1992 – My youngest sister, Christi, my two daughters, and I were flying to San Antonio to visit another sister, Sheri. I was pregnant with my third child, my son, (who would be named Presley, although I didn’t know it at the time, because I hadn’t convinced my then husband to agree to it. :)) We had a layover in Memphis and due to various mechanical difficulties with various airplanes, our wait ended up being 12 hours. We decided to take a cab to Graceland. We had our carry-on luggage with us, and it was quite interesting going through the narrow stairway with huge bags on our shoulders. I was afraid we were going to break something priceless. 🙂 

2001 – My sister, Ruth, and her husband, Tom, took me to Graceland for my fortieth birthday. WOW, what an amazing trip that was. Not only did we spend a lot of time on Beale Street, experiencing Graceland with the person with whom I shared such a close Elvis bond was incredible and unforgettable. My brother-in-law, who had never been a big Elvis fan, was overwhelmed by Graceland and the whole ‘Elvis’ experience. Funny story, while we were there, one of the fans was arrested for jumping into the pool at Graceland. I heard she had to pay a $200 fine. I’m sure it was worth it to her to be able to tell people she took a dip in Elvis’ pool. 

2006 – I drove to Atlanta for a writer’s conference with two of my friends, Jody and Christy. We spent the night in Memphis and went to Beale Street, and they wanted to see Graceland, at least briefly. So, we stopped by and hung out for a little while in front of the gate. 

2013 – I took my adult kids, Lana, Lacey, and Presley, and my niece, Madison, on a trip to Memphis and Atlanta. (We traveled to Atlanta for Vampire Diaries stuff and Cincinnati Reds/Braves games, but spent the night in Memphis on the way). We stayed in the Heartbreak Hotel and toured Graceland. I’ll have to say, the rooms in the hotel are sub-par, but the lobby is pretty spectacular. The kids were impressed with Graceland and we all had a wonderful time. Presley was especially moved. On the tour, a lady in a wheelchair was watching an Elvis video in one of the exhibits, with tears streaming down her face. In the meditation garden where Elvis is buried, the woman’s son was taking a pic of her, and she was still crying. He said, “Stop crying so I can take your picture, Mama.” 🙂 It was so precious. We saw her after the tour in front of the house. Presley patted her shoulder and knelt next to her chair and said, “My name is Presley.” He pointed at me. “Thanks to her. She’s my Mom.” (or something along those lines) Her eyes lit up and she said, “Aww, can I shake your hand?” He gave her his hand and she squeezed it and kissed the back of it. We were all in tears. Such a poignant moment.

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Madison, Lana, Lacey, Me, Presley

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Lana, Madison, Lacey, Presley

Such beautiful memories. I can’t wait until the next trip to Graceland. I would love to go sometime during Elvis week, or especially at Christmas. I bet it is breathtaking during the holidays. Have you ever been?

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Elvis Presley – Ramblings of a Lifelong Fan – Part 7 – Anniversary of That’s the Way It Is

Elvis: That’s the Way It Is was Elvis’ first non-dramatic film, a documentary chronicling live performances from The Elvis Summer Festival at the International Hotel in Las Vegas. The film features shows Elvis performed on August 11, 12, and 13, 1970. Who would have imagined that, seven years later, he would be gone? He was so vibrant and sexy and alive at the time that it is mind boggling to think about. 

One of the things I loved about the film was that it not only showed some amazing concert performances, but it showed the ‘behind the scenes’ Elvis hanging out with his entourage, rehearsals, fans commenting on what they love about him, and celebrities such as George Hamilton, Cary Grant, Juliet Prowse, and Sammy Davis, Jr. arriving for opening night. 

I was only nine years old when the film released, and I remember watching it, enthralled. At the time, I had never been to an Elvis concert, and it was a thrill to see him perform. And, to see glimpses of the ‘real’ Elvis in how he interacted with his friends and the people who worked with him. 

That’s the Way It Is featured some fabulous songs, some that people who aren’t true Elvis fans aren’t all that familiar with, such as How the Web Was Woven. Here is a brief clip of him singing part of the song in rehearsals as he plays the piano. Watch what he does at the end: 

Here is a recording of the entire song: 

One of my very favorite songs from the performances is Just Pretend. I love it so much, I named my first romance after it (I wrote it when I was eleven). I also named my hero Lonnie Beale after Elvis’ character in the movie, Tickle Me. And, I described him as looking like Elvis. 🙂 I still have the story, written mostly in pencil with the first page missing from the tattered spiral notebook. At the end, my heroine thinks Lonnie died in a plane crash, but as it turns out, (Spoiler alert!) he’d taken a different flight and he comes to her where she’s crying on the beach, and he sings Just Pretend (which has a line, “I’ll come flying to you again.” – see how I cleverly wove that in?) It was a riveting moment, LOL. 

Here is his concert performance of Just Pretend: 

Wasn’t he so sweet to his fans? Lucky, lucky woman. 

I was excited to learn that the re-mastered version of That’s the Way It Is will be showing in select theaters this month. It is coming to Oklahoma City, and I must go. So, I’m off to check on tickets. Until next time…  

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Elvis Presley – Ramblings of a Lifelong Fan – Part 5 – Shades of Elvis & Celebrity Quotes

One thing, among many, that proves what an impact Elvis had on the world of music, and the world in general, is the deep admiration and respect that other celebrities had for him. Priscilla Presley and photographer, Christopher Amuruoso, created a magnificent book called Shades of Elvis, where various celebrities don Elvis’ famous glasses and pose for photographs. The book is gorgeous. The photos are black and white, and they are amazing. I don’t own the book yet, but I will soon. J In addition to the photos, many celebrities contributed statements about Elvis to be published in the book. I love hearing other successful, famous people speak about Elvis.

http://www.shadesofelvis.net/

Here is a fabulous interview with Priscilla Presley about the book:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/pat-gallagher/elvis-and-priscilla-presley-_b_5385183.html

Below is a just a sampling of quotes about Elvis from celebrities (These quotes are not taken from Shades of Elvis)

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“I remember Elvis as a young man hanging around the Sun studios. Even then, I knew this kid had a tremendous talent. He was a dynamic young boy. His phraseology, his way of looking at a song, was as unique as Sinatra’s. I was a tremendous fan, and had Elvis lived, there would have been no end to his inventiveness.”  ~ B.B. King

’That period was different. When Elvis was there, they were stopping everything. Elvis had the moment for real. While I’m here, its not all about 50 Cent, but it was all about Elvis.”  -50 Cent 

“Ask anyone. If it hadn’t been for Elvis, I don’t know where popular music would be. He was the one that started it all off, and he was definitely the start of it for me.”  -Elton John 

“He had total love in his eyes when he performed. He was the total androgynous beauty. I would practice Elvis in front of the mirror when I was twelve or thirteen years old.”  -k.d. lang 

“That’s my idol, Elvis Presley. If you went to my house, you’d see pictures all over of Elvis. He’s just the greatest entertainer that ever lived. And I think it’s because he had such presence. When Elvis walked into a room, Elvis Presley was in the f***ing room. I don’t give a f*** who was in the room with him, Bogart, Marilyn Monroe.”  -Eddie Murphy 

“There have been a lotta tough guys. There have been pretenders. And there have been contenders. But there is only one king.”  -Bruce Springsteen 

“…it was like he came along and whispered some dream in everybody’s ear, and somehow we all dreamed it.”  -Bruce Springsteen 

“When I first heard Elvis’ voice, I just knew that I wasn’t going to work for anybody; and nobody was going to be my boss…Hearing him for the first time was like busting out of jail.”  -Bob Dylan  

“A lot has been written and said about why he was so great, but I think the best way to appreciate his greatness is just to go back and play some of the old records… Time has a way of being very unkind to old records, but Elvis’ keep getting better and better.”  -Huey Lewis 

“Elvis was the king. No doubt about it. People like myself, Mick Jagger and all the others only followed in his footsteps.”  -Rod Stewart 

“He was a unique artist – an original in an area of imitators.”  -Mick Jagger 

“He was an integrator, Elvis was a blessing. They wouldn’t let black music through. He opened the door for black music.” ~ Little Richard

“Nothing really affected me until I heard Elvis. If there hadn’t been an Elvis, there wouldn’t have been the Beatles.” ~ John Lennon

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Elvis Presley – Ramblings of a Lifelong Fan Part 4 – Impersonators

I do not care for Elvis impersonators. I have always found them a bit cartoonish and unsettling. That is not to say I don’t enjoy a respectful tribute, even if the singer is dressed as Elvis. But, I find it very annoying when people think they sound like Elvis. No one sounds like Elvis. He was the one and only, always and forever.

Often imitated, but never duplicated:

 

I will have to say, though, I do have a few fond ‘impersonator’ memories. Not long after Elvis passed away, an impersonator put on a show in Oklahoma City. I don’t even recall his name, but he was respectful, and he did a good job. My sisters and I soaked up every radio show, every interview, every tv special, etc, after his death. So, of course, we had to attend that. One thing that sticks out clearly in my mind is when the guy sang “It Won’t Seem Like Christmas Without You.” The line in the song is, “If I get the one thing I’m wishing for, then I’ll see you tonight in my dreams.” The impersonator changed it to say, “Yes, Elvis, we’ll see you tonight in our dreams.” Which, of course, made my sisters and I sob uncontrollably. 🙂

For my fortieth birthday (which, it’s kind of odd that I celebrated since I’m only twenty-five, but anyway…), my sister and brother-in-law, Ruth and Tom Zimmerman, took me to Memphis for my birthday. We were on Beale Street and a young guy dressed in a gold lamé suit was performing. He was adorable and respectful, and he sang very well, but he didn’t try to make his voice sound like Elvis.  Those are the kind of ‘impersonators’ I can enjoy. Not the fat guys with black wigs and ridiculously bushy sideburns who lower their voice and think they sound like the King.

Below is a photo of my son, Presley. Some of you probably saw it on Facebook, but I still thought I would share it here. He is not an Elvis impersonator, and he normally does not wear Elvis Presley jumpsuits. 🙂 He does, however, love Elvis music. I didn’t force it on him, I swear. He was on a cruise, and he entered a Karaoke contest singing Elvis songs. I didn’t get to see it, but I would imagine, based on his personality, he really gave them a show. He ended up winning the contest, and they gave him an Elvis costume to wear and brought him on stage for the finale.

Pres in Elvis outfit

Although I wasn’t there to see it live, he brought home a DVD, and I watched that. It was so much fun! He did a really good job and put on quite a show. And, you guessed it, he made his mama proud. 🙂

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