Elvis and the Colonel: An Insider's Look at the Most Legendary Partnership in Show Business

Colonel Tom Parker, who was often vilified in his time, led the strategy from the earliest days of Elvis's career and built the most legendary partnership in show business. Greg McDonald, who worked under Parker for years, reveals never-before-heard stories of Parker's collaboration with Elvis, revealing the man behind the legend and the strategies that made Elvis a commercial groundbreaker.

Format: Hardback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 13 December 2023
Publisher: St Martin's Press

Colonel Tom Parker, a figure often met with disdain during his time, assumed a pivotal role in guiding Elvis' career from its nascent stages. Alongside Elvis, they forged an unparalleled partnership that left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. For the first time, an insider, Greg McDonald, who had the privilege of working under Parker for years, shares the untold story of this legendary collaboration. Through never-before-heard anecdotes, McDonald unveils the man behind the legend and the strategic maneuvers that propelled Elvis to become a groundbreaking commercial force.

Parker's influence on Elvis extended far beyond mere business dealings. He introduced innovative merchandising strategies, such as selling both "I love Elvis" and "I hate Elvis" buttons, which captivated fans and generated significant buzz. Parker's astute licensing and branding efforts extended to a wide range of products, including suits, toys, ashtrays, and guitars, solidifying Elvis's iconic image. Moreover, he played a crucial role in establishing Elvis as an artist-in-residence in Las Vegas, a move that revolutionized the entertainment landscape.

Parker's visionary ideas extended to televised concert events, such as the iconic Elvis Christmas special, which broke new ground in the realm of live entertainment. These events not only showcased Elvis's talent to a global audience but also helped to solidify his status as a cultural phenomenon. Many of the practices Parker established during his time with Elvis continue to be employed by major agencies today, showcasing his enduring impact on the industry.

Parker's journey, marked by his experiences as a carny and an immigrant, shaped his management style when he reached the pinnacle of his career. His adaptability and ability to adapt big-top practices to the big time were instrumental in his success. At the core of Elvis and the Colonel lies a profound, enduring, warm, and complex relationship between two iconic figures. This captivating narrative delves into the personal and professional dynamics that shaped their partnership, providing a deeper understanding of the man behind the legend and the lasting legacy he left behind.

Weight: 300g
Dimension: 233 x 154 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781250287496