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

by Greg McDonald, Marshall Terrill

A fresh biography of legendary entertainment manager Colonel Tom Parker, with a contrarian and corrective point of view.

Colonel Tom Parker, often reviled in his time, led the strategy from the earliest days of Elvis's career. Together, they built the most legendary partnership in show business. For the first time, Colonel Parker's story is told by an insider, Greg McDonald, who worked under Parker for years. Never-before-heard stories of Parker's collaboration with Elvis reveal the man behind the legend and the strategies that made Elvis a commercial groundbreaker.

Ingrained lore has it that Parker took advantage of "poor country boy" Elvis to sign the singer who became "The King". But Elvis and the Colonel shows that Elvis was not foolish when it came to business arrangements. This book is full of stories of innovations Parker made with his star client,

--ingenious merchandising (eg, selling both "I love Elvis" and "I hate Elvis" buttons)
--licensing and branding, from suits to toys, ashtrays to guitars
--establishing The King as an artist-in-residence in Las Vegas
--creating televised concert events, like Elvis' Christmas special

Many of the practices Parker established are still deployed today by most major agencies. Parker's experience as a carny and an immigrant shaped his management style when he was at his peak, showing how he adapted big top practices to the big time. The heart of Elvis and the Colonel is the long, strong, warm and complex relationship between two iconic men.

Genres: Biography, Music, Nonfiction, Business, History, Historical

384 pages, Hardcover

Published November 28, 2023

Reviews

[Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

"'Under promise, over deliver, and do it all with a smile, all the while working hours which would flatten most people, often on an empty stomach.' This was the Parker formula. He applied it to everything from running a carnival to being Santa [Claus]. But the real test was about to come . . ." -- on page 63

'Colonel Tom Parker' - the adopted alias of Andreas Cornelius van Kujik, a Dutchman of humble but hardworking and -living origin - is often irrefutably intertwined in the life story of vanguard rock 'n roller Elvis Presley, whom he managed for 21 years (1956-1977), or for about 95% of Presley's music career. For fans decidedly in the Elvis camp - and I am one of them - Parker is perceived as a villain type, or someone who did not always make the right decisions and did not seem to care about the man he managed for all of those years. At this late date it is probably near-impossible to know the truth, by McDonald's Elvis and the Colonel - a pro-Parker bio, as McDonald looked to 'The Colonel' as a father figure and worked for and alongside him for over a decade - was a very informative (but also opinionated) explanation of said manager's life from his childhood in early 20th century Holland up to his passing at the dawn of the 21st century in his beloved Las Vegas. 'The Colonel' has been referred to as a shyster, and he was certainly slick and shrewd, but in that 'Only in America!' aspect of our great nation he was a workaholic who continuously angled to get his clients (and himself . . . cough cough) the best payday possible. It's called 'show business' for a reason, folks 😉! All joking aside, I found the biographical segments detailing his life from the 1920's to the 1950's to be sort of fascinating, as he worked a number of varied jobs all across the county, served in the U.S. Army, and cut his teeth representing county & western musicians before hitching a ride on the 'King's' wagon.

[Brian Rothbart · Rating 1 out of 5]

First, let me say that when I first heard about this book and read the description, I did not have high hopes. Since I had never heard of Greg McDonald, I was a little skeptical in exactly what he was aware of other than what the Colonel told him. Also, since he had such a close relationship with the Colonel (the Colonel supposedly allowed him to stay at his home so he could finish school) I wasn’t sure we would get an honest look and instead get a one sided, glorification of the Colonel. My initial thoughts were correct.

McDonald is an unreliable narrator who gives no sources to back up his claims. He doesn’t even give the year when he first met Elvis and the Colonel, and as we will see there is an issue with what he says. However, there are lots of errors or “stories” that are hard to believe that ever happened as retold in the book, but we will get to those later.

I was hoping that the book would contain at least pictures and copies of contracts, letters, etc. However, there are only two photos, three if you count the photo on the cover. One is of Elvis and the Colonel. The second is of the author, his wife, and the Colonel dressed as Santa. There are no copies of letters that he mentions in the book or copies of the contracts, etc.

The book can be divided into two parts. Chapters one through 12, which is more of a biography of the Colonel’s life, stories that I assume came directly from what Colonel told the author. We all know how unreliable the Colonel can be in his stories and claims. He also says that the Dutch “are extremely private people.” (p. 31) so why would the Colonel tell him these things?

Chapters 13 through 24 are during the time when the author first met Elvis and the Colonel and could therefore have firsthand knowledge of what happened during that time. Although, McDonald says that he didn’t work for the Colonel during Elvis concert tours of the 70s. Also, I’m never quite sure what he did for the Colonel other than drive him between Palm Spring and LA.

The first half of the book is very schmaltzy and sappy in the telling of the Colonel’s early life. It is not well written and feels clunky and geared toward young adults. For example, he says “his only pair of shoes had huge holes in the soles. He wrapped his feet in newspaper, and stuffed them in his shoes to keep them warm.” (p.29) He also tells two other tales that seem far-fetched that are described below. In the second half of the book there are a few interesting things. One is the meeting with the Beatles. The second is regarding the Colonel and how he marketed Elvis’ Vegas and tours.

I don’t think the narrative that the Colonel was the “devil” is quite accurate. He did a lot of great things for Elvis’ career in the early days and Elvis and Colonel both helped to change the world. The Colonel couldn’t have accomplished the things he did without having a client as talented and special as Elvis. Elvis, on the other hand, might not have been propelled as quickly as he was without the help from the one of the greatest promoters in history. And the Colonel’s marketing and merchandising of Elvis was genius. However, this rosy picture is not based on reality. The Colonel also did some questionable things and was a much better promoter than manager. His number one goal was money. Of course, Elvis had the power to take on the Colonel and sometimes he did. However, the Colonel knew how to manipulate Elvis, and Vernon, and play into their fears regarding money and fame. But, like Elvis, the Colonel was loyal. He might have thought since money is the most important thing, he was really doing what was in Elvis’ best interest. The Colonel might have thought he did a lot for Elvis and Elvis owed him more than he deserved. He was not necessarily evil (unless he was a murderer), but he was no saint by any means.

This book is described as “An Insider’s Look at the Most Legendary Partnership in the Show Business.” However, that is far from the truth. You get very little insight, unreliable stories, and numerous factual errors. Here is a list of things that McDonald doesn’t discuss or mention, address adequately, or dubious statements or events in the book:
• There is no mention of the Colonel blacklisting Leiber and Stroller or how he ended that relationship because he felt threatened by the duo.
• The author says, the Colonel “wasn’t even a hustler.” However, he goes on about how smart the Colonel was in his “hustling”. (p. 31)
• The author mentions that the Colonel was adopted by owners of the Parker Pony Rides. “They ventured down to the courthouse in the small town in Georgia where they were working and filled out the necessary paperwork.” He then goes on to say that this is how the Colonel got his last name “Parker.” (pp.31-37) Are there records of this? If so, why hasn’t anyone else said anything since it has been said that he got the name Tom Parker from the name of the army officer who interviewed him. Also, why would a couple adopt an 18-year-old kid? Also, according to the book, the Colonel goes back to Europe (he did) traveling around before deciding to come back to the US. However, he states that during that time when he decided to return that it was hard for immigrants because recently passed immigration laws, and that “immigrants had to find an American sponsor . . . .“ Wait, wasn’t he adopted? Didn’t he have someone who could sponsor him? Anyway, there is never any mention that the Colonel ever visited his “adopted” parents again.
• The author makes no mention of the Colonel going AWOL, being put in solitary confinement, and then sent to Walter Reed Hospital. He just says military records were destroyed in a fire, which is true or were either lost. (p. 44). However, in Alanna Nash’s book, “The Colonel: The Extraordinary Story of Colonel Tom Parker and Elvis,” she says that after “nearly a two-year search for Parker’s army records, aided by the Freedom of Information Act, finally yielded a glimmer of what Parker feared would be known . . .The discharge document and final pay vouchers contained in the file, combined with ancillary records (such as morning reports and unit rosters found elsewhere) begin to frame a far clearer picture of Tome Parker than anyone has ever seen. . . . Records show that his commanding officer marked his 140-day AWOL as lost time without wages. Then he added sixty days more: for two months, Private Parker would be placed in solitary confinement in the guardhouse jail on the post. . . .On June 19, 1933, Private Thomas Parker, having taken leave of his senses, was removed from the guarded lockup ward and sent to Walter Reed Army Medical Center . . . ” (Nash pp. 79-83)
• The author makes no mention of how the Colonel screwed Hank Snow, who said, "I have worked with several managers over the years and have had respect for them all except one. Tom Parker (he refuses to recognize the title Colonel) was the most egotistical, obnoxious human being I've ever had dealings with."
• The author talks about meeting Elvis and Colonel on a hot summer day sometime in the 1960s. He doesn’t give a year, so it is hard to totally verify. However, he talks about Elvis renting Jack Warner’s estate and that Elvis and some blonde woman (who was nude) were hanging out by the pool. This sounds very strange as Elvis usually had the guys around him so be alone with some woman sounds strange. Who was this woman? Elvis and McDonald then have this conversation about Oral Roberts and the Assembly of God church, and then Elvis calls the Colonel to tell him that he must meet this kid. So, he goes over to the Colonel’s house and the Colonel takes a liking to him. So much so that he invites him to live with him so McDonald can go and finish school. (p. 146-153)
- Elvis, I believe, first stayed in Palm Springs in 1966, but stayed the “Honeymoon House” or “House of Tomorrow”. Elvis rented Warner’s house in 1973.
• Another tidbit that is a little hard to swallow is that Elvis was invited to a dinner party thrown by Marilyn Monroe, but Elvis did not get the invitation because whoever took the message never gave it to Elvis. (pp. 155-156) This seems unbelievable on several levels. First, I’m not even sure Monroe threw dinner parties, but why would she invite Elvis? They were 10 years apart in age and I believe they only met fleeting by passing each other on a movie lot. Second, why wouldn’t the person give the message to Elvis? It isn’t something you would have forgotten, and I think one of the guys would like to have the chance to meet Ms. Monroe. If there was an invitation, it was probably received by the Colonel or one of Elvis’ girlfriends.
• The author describes a time that producer Jerry Wald, “told the Colonel that he had a script for his client that practically assured him the Oscar.” However, the Colonel kills the deal because Elvis’ salary would have to be lowered. Does the Colonel ask for him to send the script? (pp. 161-162)
• The author quotes the Colonel saying, “I don’t read the scripts . . . .” (p. 169) This is a good thing?
• The author says that he was driving around Beverly Hills and pulled up to Elvis at a stoplight at Sunset Boulevard and Beverly Drive who was on a motorcycle with Natalie Wood (p. 188) This also seems dubious as Elvis and Natalie had hung out, but that was in Memphis in the 1950s. Please let me know if there was any mention of them hanging out in the 1960s.
• The author does not mention the controversy over the 1968 “Comeback Special.” He does mention that the Colonel was worried that since it wasn’t a Christmas show that if it didn’t do well, they would be sued, but no mention of his mischief trying to derail what Binder and Elvis wanted to do. And no mention of whatever shenanigans the Colonel did regarding tickets. (p. 196)
• The author discusses recording at American Sound Studio and specifically “Suspicious Minds”, but not how upset the Colonel was about it being recorded as they didn’t own the publishing rights. (pp. 197-198) The Colonel “threatened to stop Elvis’ recording. However, Elvis went ahead with his recording against Colonel Parker’s issues.” In fact, there is no mention or discussion about Elvis not getting the best material because he was only brought stuff that they had the publishing rights. This is something that Elvis could have ignored, but it would still have been a problem for songs written for the movies and the reason for some of his worst recordings.
• The author said that Vernon was mad that the Colonel was giving out bonuses after tours. Therefore, Vernon had Elvis call and talk to the Colonel about the bonuses. (p.235) This doesn’t seem like a thing Elvis would worry himself about or call the Colonel. I could see Vernon making this stink, if the money was coming out of Elvis’ pocket, which it really shouldn’t be if the Colonel was giving bonuses to his people.
• The author says he didn’t work with the Colonel during Elvis’ touring years. (p. 246). Since he gives no dates, I’m not sure when he actually worked for the Colonel or when he first met him. It was obviously sometime in the 1960s when he moved in with the Colonel so he could go to school. However, I’m still not sure what he did for the Colonel other than drive him places.
• The author says that the Colonel was against selling Elvis’ back catalog, which seems to be true. He also negotiated a new seven-year contract with RCA. (p. 259-261) However, according to Nash’s book, after the sale the Colonel demanded a new management agreement. “All income from Elvis’ recordings would be divided 50-50 from the first dollar, meaning Presley and Parker were now locked into a pure and equal partnership.” (p. 426) it I’m not sure whose idea it was, but it seems that the Colonel made out a lot better out on the deal with subsequent contracts that were negotiated. “In the end, RCA paid the pair $10.5 million. Of that, $6 million would go to the Colonel, and $4.5 million to Elvis.” (Nash p. 426)
• The author gives one of the reasons for Elvis’ decline was for a “growing lack of interest in his career after peaking on “Elvis: Aloha from Hawaii.” (p. 266) However, he doesn’t mention why the Colonel didn’t try to get him something that would inspire and/or test him like a movie or travel overseas. He states that the Colonel wanted Elvis to take some time off, but Elvis couldn’t because of his debt. However, the Colonel turned down a lot of money for Elvis to travel overseas. The author discusses how the Colonel squashed a concert in Japan that would have paid Elvis $1 million. (p. 300)
• The author discusses how Elvis fired the Colonel after a Vegas show (September 5, 1973) and how the Colonel sent Elvis his resignation agreement that Elvis never signed. The Colonel knew that Elvis couldn’t afford the $5 million that he said Elvis owed him. (p. 270-271). The author also says that another reason that Elvis didn’t fire the Colonel was because “no one wanted to touch Elvis Presley. He was seen as unpredictable and difficult to handle.” (pp. 273-274) This is just laughable.
• The author says that Elvis used to have the houselights turned up during his concerts because “the Colonel made a promise to Elvis that every ticket in every venue would be sold out, and if Elvis saw an empty seat anywhere, he could walk offstage with his blessing.” (p. 288) Hogwash. First, Elvis had trouble seeing past the first few rows. Second, seats could be empty for any number of reasons. All Elvis would need to do is ask for the ticket sales, etc. to see if shows were selling out. Third, Elvis would not just walk off the stage because a few seats weren’t sold. Finally, it makes it seem that the reason Elvis’ shows were sold out was because of the Colonel’s marketing and not because of Elvis.
• The author says the 1976 contract between Elvis and the Colonel was “not very profitable for Colonel Parker being based on what was left over after Elvis’ touring expenses, and sometimes there was nothing left.” (pp. 288-289) However, he contradicts that statement by reporting numerous times what Elvis and the Colonel made from either a tour or single concert. Also, according to Lamar Fike, “But only the Colonel really understood what constituted ‘expenses’ and what was ‘net’.” (Nash book, p. 415)
• The author says that Elvis owned rocket launchers. (p. 290) Not one but multiple. I know that when Elvis was in the army he was photographed training with a bazooka in Germany. However, I didn’t hear about him owning a bazooka as a civilian. What would he do with it? Has anyone heard this?
• The author says that Elvis had an oxygen tank off stage so he could use it during his concerts. (p. 291). I know that he used to use an asthma inhaler, but I don’t remember reading anything about him using an oxygen tank. I think that would have been obvious. However, please let me know if I am wrong.
• The author says that Elvis was set to play Wembley Stadium in London at the end of 1977. He says that Elvis took out insurance, not the Colonel. (p. 300) Did the Colonel know about this? How were they going to put a show together and sell tickets with no advertising as of August 16, 1977? I believe there was a discussion of 10 concerts at Wembley Stadium sometime in the 70s, but it was squashed by the Colonel. I can buy the argument that it might have been hard for Elvis to travel overseas in the late 70s because of the drugs and guns, but it doesn’t explain why he didn’t do it earlier, and especially right after the Aloha special. Why did the Colonel not want to go overseas? The author never addresses that issue. Wouldn’t he have asked the Colonel?
• The author makes the claim that 4,000 fans walked out of Elvis’ afternoon concert in Houston on August 28, 1976 (“Houston We Have a Problem” bootleg). (p. 304) There is no way that 4,000 fans walked out. It would have been reported in Bob Claypool’s scathing review.
• The author mentions that the Colonel was worried about Elvis performing and going out on tour, etc. However, MacDonald argues that the reason the Colonel agreed to the CBS television special was because he was hoping it would be the “impetus needed to get Elvis back on track.” (pp. 313-314) The Colonel signs a deal for Elvis to do a television show that was only a few weeks away? There was no way Elvis would have enough time to get in shape, etc. Not to mention the number of health issues he had. It could have been a disaster, and in many respects, it was and why it will never be officially released nor should it. Did the Colonel see the writing on the wall and see that there was only a matter of time that he had his cash cow?
ERRORS
1. The author credits the Colonel and Al Dvorin for creating the famous line, “Elvis has left the building.” However, it was first said at Elvis’ last Louisiana Hayride show on December 15, 1956 when Horace Logan uttered, “All right, all right, Elvis has left the building. I’ve told you absolutely straight up to this point. You know that. He has left the building. He left the stage and went out the back with the policeman and he is now gone… Please take your seats.” (p. 11)
2. The author says that Hal Wallis and Colonel met to discuss Love Me Tender, but in footnote he states, correctly, that Elvis was loaned out to make Love Me Tender. (P. 104)
3. The author says that Elvis found Graceland and named it. (p. 113) Neither is true, Elvis’ parents found Graceland and the name was christened by the original owners who named it after their daughter, Grace. (Peter Guralnick, “Last Train to Memphis” p. 395)
4. The author says that “Blue Hawaii” had 17 songs. It was only 14 songs. (p. 154)
5. The author says that “Double Trouble” was a movie where Elvis played twins. However, it was “Kissin Cousins.” (p. 181)
6. The author says that Elvis’ dog Brutus was used in “Live A Little, Love A Lot.” However, this is a myth that has been disproved by Priscilla who said it was not Brutus. (p. 195)
7. The author says that the 68 “Comeback Special” included financing for “Charro.” However, it was “Change of Habit.” (p. 196)
8. The author says that “The Trouble with Girls” contained the song “A Little Less Conversation.” However, it was “Live A Little Love A Little.” (p. 197)
9. The author says that on January 15, 1973, Elvis walked off the stage after two songs. However, this was February 15, 1973. It couldn’t have been on January 15 because Elvis was in Hawaii filming the Aloha special and his Vegas gig was from January 26 to February 23, 1973. (p. 258)

[Jenna Guthier · Rating 3 out of 5]

Elvis will forever be the King.

[Dylan Hodge · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’m not really sure who this book was written for. Elvis fans? Maybe. For people that love a cash grab? Definitely.
First the things I enjoyed about the book: 1) McDonald tells a great quick summary of the Colonel’s life. It’s not the normal “Elvis was born in MS, he had a brother who died at birth, and his daddy forged a check and went to jail,” story that’s been hammered by biographers time and time again. 2) it gives us a different perspective of the Elvis and Colonel story.
Here’s where things get a little haywire for me. McDonald “debunks” biographers, Priscilla, the Memphis Mafia, and the hundreds of others who were in Elvis’s circle every day of his life that the Colonel bled Elvis dry, worked him to death, and was disliked by many people. But he debunks all of these theories with little to no proof. He writes “that’s just not true because the Colonel told me the story himself.” He writes numerous times he has documents and proof, but doesn’t reference or even provide proof of the said documents and or contracts.
What really threw me off is he doesn’t write it but he does hint that the table cloth contract signed in Las Vegas never happened. When in fact that’s incorrect. The original signed table cloth contract sits inside of a glass display at Graceland.
While the book did keep me reading, it wasn’t for the purpose of enjoyment. I just wanted to read what this guy had to say and “debunk” next.
I’m sure the story of Elvis and the Colonel is somewhere in the middle. I don’t think we’ll ever know, but when one guy is trying to tell a story of another person who he idolized when hundreds of others are telling the other same story, that’s a thin stretch.

[Wendy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written by an insider and longtime employee and friend of Colonel Tom Parker, this was a very enjoyable read and an inside glimpse into the world of Elvis Presley and his famous (or infamous) manager Colonel Tom Parker. Parker had grown up in poverty in the Netherlands but he was a hard worker and good with animals and took whatever work came his way. He rode the rails as a hobo, served in the military and eventually settled in the United States. His claim to fame is that he was the exclusive manager/promoter of Elvis Presley during his show business career. Now I have seen the recent Elvis movie and enjoyed it very much, but I'm not convinced that the Colonel was the villan he was made out to be in the movie, especially after reading this book. There are two sides to every story. And while the Colonel made a lot of money off Elvis, he also negotiated some great deals for him and Elvis made a ton of money. Problem was Elvis also spent a ton of money. While generous to a fault, he just spent and spent, kept over a hundred people on his payroll, gave away cars and jewelry and basically lived beyond his means, even as a rich entertainer. But what did him in was the drugs. And I don't think the Colonel can be blamed for the continuing drug habit. Addicts have to want to get help, and apparently Elvis did not even though his family and friends were worriied about him, they couldn't force him to stop. A sad end to a phenomenal career, but I don't think the Colonel was to blame for all of it as seen in the movie.

[Georgette · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very interesting look at the Colonel. Not super sure why the author decided to drop this book into the public's lap after both Elvis and the Colonel have long ago left the building, but it was a good read.

[Frances · Rating 4 out of 5]

Different perspective from recent movie and book from which it was derived. Big effort to rehabilitate his image. The truth is probably somewhere between the two accounts.

[J.J. Lair · Rating 5 out of 5]

This guy really admires Tom Parker. This is one of the rare books to tell us about Parker, not just business, but personal info. We get his family background, teen years, years in the military. Yes, he was in the military.
The author tries to dispel some ideas about Parker. He makes some valid points.
Parker couldn’t get a passport. Parker knew politicians and big business people, he could’ve got a passport or at worst been smuggled back and forth out of the country.
Elvis was trapped because of Parker’s love of money. The author counters that Elvis spent money without regard and needed money himself.
Some of the author’s points are debatable because his timeline of movies seems off. Some points that we’ve heard before, he ignores. He goes out to say Elvis ruined Elvis.
The story flowed and the end was sad. He told it in compelling way.

[Alex · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Read! Awesome the way the book flows.

[Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Account of Elvis and the Colonel

This book gave me a much better account of Colonel Tom Parker’s relationship with Elvis and how the management was important for both. I highly recommend this book.

[Nikki · Rating 3 out of 5]

It’s a good story. That’s probably why it’s a story that’s been told so many times before. A story that kept me interested for hundreds of pages while I traveled through a timeline of events that to me were some familiar and some brand new.

I was lucky enough to receive an advance reader copy of this book which was an opportunity I jumped on for exactly that reason. This is legendary stuff - tell me more.

Now this version is advertised as a “contrarian and corrective” view of events and that’s exactly what you get. Who’s to say which dramatized or sanitized version of events is the whole truth anyway? Does it matter?

The book suffers in the very last chapter. Literally three paragraphs from the end when the author calls Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis film “woke” for no reason jarring me straight out of the glamorous rock n’ roll world of days past and straight into 2023 politics. I honestly knocked an entire star off my rating for the bad taste that left me with after a good book.

[Rcavictory · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm glad I read the book! I only wish that there was references associated with the claims made. I found this book to be about Colonel Parker more than about their relationship. However, I have a slightly different view of things as to their relationship. I did enjoy the book and had an open mind going into it. If you can, read it and see what you think!

[Russell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great insight to the behind the scenes life of a man many probably have ever heard of! Highly recommend reading this book!

[Brian Rothbart · Rating 1 out of 5]

First, let me say that when I first heard about this book and read the description, I did not have high hopes. Since I had never heard of Greg McDonald, I was a little skeptical in exactly what he was aware of other than what the Colonel told him. Also, since he had such a close relationship with the Colonel (the Colonel supposedly allowed him to stay at his home so he could finish school) I wasn’t sure we would get an honest look and instead get a one sided, glorification of the Colonel. My initial thoughts were correct.

McDonald is an unreliable narrator who gives no sources to back up his claims. He doesn’t even give the year when he first met Elvis and the Colonel, and as we will see there is an issue with what he says. However, there are lots of errors or “stories” that are hard to believe that ever happened as retold in the book, but we will get to those later.

I was hoping that the book would contain at least pictures and copies of contracts, letters, etc. However, there are only two photos, three if you count the photo on the cover. One is of Elvis and the Colonel. The second is of the author, his wife, and the Colonel dressed as Santa. There are no copies of letters that he mentions in the book or copies of the contracts, etc.

The book can be divided into two parts. Chapters one through 12, which is more of a biography of the Colonel’s life, stories that I assume came directly from what Colonel told the author. We all know how unreliable the Colonel can be in his stories and claims. He also says that the Dutch “are extremely private people.” (p. 31) so why would the Colonel tell him these things?

Chapters 13 through 24 are during the time when the author first met Elvis and the Colonel and could therefore have firsthand knowledge of what happened during that time. Although, McDonald says that he didn’t work for the Colonel during Elvis concert tours of the 70s. Also, I’m never quite sure what he did for the Colonel other than drive him between Palm Spring and LA.

The first half of the book is very schmaltzy and sappy in the telling of the Colonel’s early life. It is not well written and feels clunky and geared toward young adults. For example, he says “his only pair of shoes had huge holes in the soles. He wrapped his feet in newspaper, and stuffed them in his shoes to keep them warm.” (p.29) He also tells two other tales that seem far-fetched that are described below. In the second half of the book there are a few interesting things. One is the meeting with the Beatles. The second is regarding the Colonel and how he marketed Elvis’ Vegas and tours.

I don’t think the narrative that the Colonel was the “devil” is quite accurate. He did a lot of great things for Elvis’ career in the early days and Elvis and Colonel both helped to change the world. The Colonel couldn’t have accomplished the things he did without having a client as talented and special as Elvis. Elvis, on the other hand, might not have been propelled as quickly as he was without the help from the one of the greatest promoters in history. And the Colonel’s marketing and merchandising of Elvis was genius. However, this rosy picture is not based on reality. The Colonel also did some questionable things and was a much better promoter than manager. His number one goal was money. Of course, Elvis had the power to take on the Colonel and sometimes he did. However, the Colonel knew how to manipulate Elvis, and Vernon, and play into their fears regarding money and fame. But, like Elvis, the Colonel was loyal. He might have thought since money is the most important thing, he was really doing what was in Elvis’ best interest. The Colonel might have thought he did a lot for Elvis and Elvis owed him more than he deserved. He was not necessarily evil (unless he was a murderer), but he was no saint by any means.

This book is described as “An Insider’s Look at the Most Legendary Partnership in the Show Business.” However, that is far from the truth. You get very little insight, unreliable stories, and numerous factual errors. Here is a list of things that McDonald doesn’t discuss or mention, address adequately, or dubious statements or events in the book:
• There is no mention of the Colonel blacklisting Leiber and Stroller or how he ended that relationship because he felt threatened by the duo.
• The author says, the Colonel “wasn’t even a hustler.” However, he goes on about how smart the Colonel was in his “hustling”. (p. 31)
• The author mentions that the Colonel was adopted by owners of the Parker Pony Rides. “They ventured down to the courthouse in the small town in Georgia where they were working and filled out the necessary paperwork.” He then goes on to say that this is how the Colonel got his last name “Parker.” (pp.31-37) Are there records of this? If so, why hasn’t anyone else said anything since it has been said that he got the name Tom Parker from the name of the army officer who interviewed him. Also, why would a couple adopt an 18-year-old kid? Also, according to the book, the Colonel goes back to Europe (he did) traveling around before deciding to come back to the US. However, he states that during that time when he decided to return that it was hard for immigrants because recently passed immigration laws, and that “immigrants had to find an American sponsor . . . .“ Wait, wasn’t he adopted? Didn’t he have someone who could sponsor him? Anyway, there is never any mention that the Colonel ever visited his “adopted” parents again.
• The author makes no mention of the Colonel going AWOL, being put in solitary confinement, and then sent to Walter Reed Hospital. He just says military records were destroyed in a fire, which is true or were either lost. (p. 44). However, in Alanna Nash’s book, “The Colonel: The Extraordinary Story of Colonel Tom Parker and Elvis,” she says that after “nearly a two-year search for Parker’s army records, aided by the Freedom of Information Act, finally yielded a glimmer of what Parker feared would be known . . .The discharge document and final pay vouchers contained in the file, combined with ancillary records (such as morning reports and unit rosters found elsewhere) begin to frame a far clearer picture of Tome Parker than anyone has ever seen. . . . Records show that his commanding officer marked his 140-day AWOL as lost time without wages. Then he added sixty days more: for two months, Private Parker would be placed in solitary confinement in the guardhouse jail on the post. . . .On June 19, 1933, Private Thomas Parker, having taken leave of his senses, was removed from the guarded lockup ward and sent to Walter Reed Army Medical Center . . . ” (Nash pp. 79-83)
• The author makes no mention of how the Colonel screwed Hank Snow, who said, "I have worked with several managers over the years and have had respect for them all except one. Tom Parker (he refuses to recognize the title Colonel) was the most egotistical, obnoxious human being I've ever had dealings with."
• The author talks about meeting Elvis and Colonel on a hot summer day sometime in the 1960s. He doesn’t give a year, so it is hard to totally verify. However, he talks about Elvis renting Jack Warner’s estate and that Elvis and some blonde woman (who was nude) were hanging out by the pool. This sounds very strange as Elvis usually had the guys around him so be alone with some woman sounds strange. Who was this woman? Elvis and McDonald then have this conversation about Oral Roberts and the Assembly of God church, and then Elvis calls the Colonel to tell him that he must meet this kid. So, he goes over to the Colonel’s house and the Colonel takes a liking to him. So much so that he invites him to live with him so McDonald can go and finish school. (p. 146-153)
- Elvis, I believe, first stayed in Palm Springs in 1966, but stayed the “Honeymoon House” or “House of Tomorrow”. Elvis rented Warner’s house in 1973.
• Another tidbit that is a little hard to swallow is that Elvis was invited to a dinner party thrown by Marilyn Monroe, but Elvis did not get the invitation because whoever took the message never gave it to Elvis. (pp. 155-156) This seems unbelievable on several levels. First, I’m not even sure Monroe threw dinner parties, but why would she invite Elvis? They were 10 years apart in age and I believe they only met fleeting by passing each other on a movie lot. Second, why wouldn’t the person give the message to Elvis? It isn’t something you would have forgotten, and I think one of the guys would like to have the chance to meet Ms. Monroe. If there was an invitation, it was probably received by the Colonel or one of Elvis’ girlfriends.
• The author describes a time that producer Jerry Wald, “told the Colonel that he had a script for his client that practically assured him the Oscar.” However, the Colonel kills the deal because Elvis’ salary would have to be lowered. Does the Colonel ask for him to send the script? (pp. 161-162)
• The author quotes the Colonel saying, “I don’t read the scripts . . . .” (p. 169) This is a good thing?
• The author says that he was driving around Beverly Hills and pulled up to Elvis at a stoplight at Sunset Boulevard and Beverly Drive who was on a motorcycle with Natalie Wood (p. 188) This also seems dubious as Elvis and Natalie had hung out, but that was in Memphis in the 1950s. Please let me know if there was any mention of them hanging out in the 1960s.
• The author does not mention the controversy over the 1968 “Comeback Special.” He does mention that the Colonel was worried that since it wasn’t a Christmas show that if it didn’t do well, they would be sued, but no mention of his mischief trying to derail what Binder and Elvis wanted to do. And no mention of whatever shenanigans the Colonel did regarding tickets. (p. 196)
• The author discusses recording at American Sound Studio and specifically “Suspicious Minds”, but not how upset the Colonel was about it being recorded as they didn’t own the publishing rights. (pp. 197-198) The Colonel “threatened to stop Elvis’ recording. However, Elvis went ahead with his recording against Colonel Parker’s issues.” In fact, there is no mention or discussion about Elvis not getting the best material because he was only brought stuff that they had the publishing rights. This is something that Elvis could have ignored, but it would still have been a problem for songs written for the movies and the reason for some of his worst recordings.
• The author said that Vernon was mad that the Colonel was giving out bonuses after tours. Therefore, Vernon had Elvis call and talk to the Colonel about the bonuses. (p.235) This doesn’t seem like a thing Elvis would worry himself about or call the Colonel. I could see Vernon making this stink, if the money was coming out of Elvis’ pocket, which it really shouldn’t be if the Colonel was giving bonuses to his people.
• The author says he didn’t work with the Colonel during Elvis’ touring years. (p. 246). Since he gives no dates, I’m not sure when he actually worked for the Colonel or when he first met him. It was obviously sometime in the 1960s when he moved in with the Colonel so he could go to school. However, I’m still not sure what he did for the Colonel other than drive him places.
• The author says that the Colonel was against selling Elvis’ back catalog, which seems to be true. He also negotiated a new seven-year contract with RCA. (p. 259-261) However, according to Nash’s book, after the sale the Colonel demanded a new management agreement. “All income from Elvis’ recordings would be divided 50-50 from the first dollar, meaning Presley and Parker were now locked into a pure and equal partnership.” (p. 426) it I’m not sure whose idea it was, but it seems that the Colonel made out a lot better out on the deal with subsequent contracts that were negotiated. “In the end, RCA paid the pair $10.5 million. Of that, $6 million would go to the Colonel, and $4.5 million to Elvis.” (Nash p. 426)
• The author gives one of the reasons for Elvis’ decline was for a “growing lack of interest in his career after peaking on “Elvis: Aloha from Hawaii.” (p. 266) However, he doesn’t mention why the Colonel didn’t try to get him something that would inspire and/or test him like a movie or travel overseas. He states that the Colonel wanted Elvis to take some time off, but Elvis couldn’t because of his debt. However, the Colonel turned down a lot of money for Elvis to travel overseas. The author discusses how the Colonel squashed a concert in Japan that would have paid Elvis $1 million. (p. 300)
• The author discusses how Elvis fired the Colonel after a Vegas show (September 5, 1973) and how the Colonel sent Elvis his resignation agreement that Elvis never signed. The Colonel knew that Elvis couldn’t afford the $5 million that he said Elvis owed him. (p. 270-271). The author also says that another reason that Elvis didn’t fire the Colonel was because “no one wanted to touch Elvis Presley. He was seen as unpredictable and difficult to handle.” (pp. 273-274) This is just laughable.
• The author says that Elvis used to have the houselights turned up during his concerts because “the Colonel made a promise to Elvis that every ticket in every venue would be sold out, and if Elvis saw an empty seat anywhere, he could walk offstage with his blessing.” (p. 288) Hogwash. First, Elvis had trouble seeing past the first few rows. Second, seats could be empty for any number of reasons. All Elvis would need to do is ask for the ticket sales, etc. to see if shows were selling out. Third, Elvis would not just walk off the stage because a few seats weren’t sold. Finally, it makes it seem that the reason Elvis’ shows were sold out was because of the Colonel’s marketing and not because of Elvis.
• The author says the 1976 contract between Elvis and the Colonel was “not very profitable for Colonel Parker being based on what was left over after Elvis’ touring expenses, and sometimes there was nothing left.” (pp. 288-289) However, he contradicts that statement by reporting numerous times what Elvis and the Colonel made from either a tour or single concert. Also, according to Lamar Fike, “But only the Colonel really understood what constituted ‘expenses’ and what was ‘net’.” (Nash book, p. 415)
• The author says that Elvis owned rocket launchers. (p. 290) Not one but multiple. I know that when Elvis was in the army he was photographed training with a bazooka in Germany. However, I didn’t hear about him owning a bazooka as a civilian. What would he do with it? Has anyone heard this?
• The author says that Elvis had an oxygen tank off stage so he could use it during his concerts. (p. 291). I know that he used to use an asthma inhaler, but I don’t remember reading anything about him using an oxygen tank. I think that would have been obvious. However, please let me know if I am wrong.
• The author says that Elvis was set to play Wembley Stadium in London at the end of 1977. He says that Elvis took out insurance, not the Colonel. (p. 300) Did the Colonel know about this? How were they going to put a show together and sell tickets with no advertising as of August 16, 1977? I believe there was a discussion of 10 concerts at Wembley Stadium sometime in the 70s, but it was squashed by the Colonel. I can buy the argument that it might have been hard for Elvis to travel overseas in the late 70s because of the drugs and guns, but it doesn’t explain why he didn’t do it earlier, and especially right after the Aloha special. Why did the Colonel not want to go overseas? The author never addresses that issue. Wouldn’t he have asked the Colonel?
• The author makes the claim that 4,000 fans walked out of Elvis’ afternoon concert in Houston on August 28, 1976 (“Houston We Have a Problem” bootleg). (p. 304) There is no way that 4,000 fans walked out. It would have been reported in Bob Claypool’s scathing review.
• The author mentions that the Colonel was worried about Elvis performing and going out on tour, etc. However, MacDonald argues that the reason the Colonel agreed to the CBS television special was because he was hoping it would be the “impetus needed to get Elvis back on track.” (pp. 313-314) The Colonel signs a deal for Elvis to do a television show that was only a few weeks away? There was no way Elvis would have enough time to get in shape, etc. Not to mention the number of health issues he had. It could have been a disaster, and in many respects, it was and why it will never be officially released nor should it. Did the Colonel see the writing on the wall and see that there was only a matter of time that he had his cash cow?
ERRORS
1. The author credits the Colonel and Al Dvorin for creating the famous line, “Elvis has left the building.” However, it was first said at Elvis’ last Louisiana Hayride show on December 15, 1956 when Horace Logan uttered, “All right, all right, Elvis has left the building. I’ve told you absolutely straight up to this point. You know that. He has left the building. He left the stage and went out the back with the policeman and he is now gone… Please take your seats.” (p. 11)
2. The author says that Hal Wallis and Colonel met to discuss Love Me Tender, but in footnote he states, correctly, that Elvis was loaned out to make Love Me Tender. (P. 104)
3. The author says that Elvis found Graceland and named it. (p. 113) Neither is true, Elvis’ parents found Graceland and the name was christened by the original owners who named it after their daughter, Grace. (Peter Guralnick, “Last Train to Memphis” p. 395)
4. The author says that “Blue Hawaii” had 17 songs. It was only 14 songs. (p. 154)
5. The author says that “Double Trouble” was a movie where Elvis played twins. However, it was “Kissin Cousins.” (p. 181)
6. The author says that Elvis’ dog Brutus was used in “Live A Little, Love A Lot.” However, this is a myth that has been disproved by Priscilla who said it was not Brutus. (p. 195)
7. The author says that the 68 “Comeback Special” included financing for “Charro.” However, it was “Change of Habit.” (p. 196)
8. The author says that “The Trouble with Girls” contained the song “A Little Less Conversation.” However, it was “Live A Little Love A Little.” (p. 197)
9. The author says that on January 15, 1973, Elvis walked off the stage after two songs. However, this was February 15, 1973. It couldn’t have been on January 15 because Elvis was in Hawaii filming the Aloha special and his Vegas gig was from January 26 to February 23, 1973. (p. 258)

[Andrew · Rating 1 out of 5]

Instead of calling this book: Elvis and the Colonel: An Insider's Look at the Most Legendary Partnership in Show Business, probably should have called it:

Elvis and the Colonel: Gee Whiz! The Colonel was the Greatest Guy in History!

Then I wouldn't have read it, but would have been more accurate.

I'm not an Elvis fan. He's fine. His music doesn't do anything for me. I'm just interested in larger than life figures who shaped the world's culture. Figured it would be a decent jumping off point to learning more about The King.

It is not.

This was a 2 star book for me for the most part, it's not written very well, but it was almost okay. Then I was curious about brief mentions of The Colonel's gambling. And HOLY SHIT did that guy piss away a shit ton of money!!!! All it takes is a quick search to find info on that. In the book it's quickly glossed over, presented as "Colonel didn't have a gambling problem, NBD."

But at the dude's death, his estate had $1 million. Considering he was estimated to have made $100 million in his lifetime, where did that money go?

Who knows? Book doesn't cover it. And that's why I'm giving the book the DREADED one star. I feel too much was left out and glossed over, in an attempt to make the Colonel look like a hero.

Here's a bunch of passages that annoyed me. Enjoy!

"Many times his (Colonel's) staff had trouble following his wishes because they were not logical and yet somehow they seem to work."

Oh. Okay author, care to give one example? No? Okay then.

Then there's just fawning film flam like this:

"The Colonel never took advantage of situations like this and always tried his best to see that everyone came out well. He had a strong sense of fairness, which is often overlooked."

I mean, sure if you consider "fair" taking half of Elvis' merch money, okay.

"However, he was more than willing to see anyone who wished to see him. Many of them did and found their visits fun and exciting."

All right.

"The Colonel was always a very positive person and ready to expect the best to happen, while at the same time worrying about what might occur."

Huh, ya don't say.

You'll notice words like "always" are often used to describe the Colonel, as if he was almost a saint. Yet there's tons of stories of him yelling at people and losing his cool. SO was always positive? Or was he kind of a dick at times like a normal person?

Then there's some sloppy redundancies like the mention that Colonel never needed a vacation because he loved his work so much.

Then there's quotes when, unless the author had a tape recorder, there's no way to know he said things verbatim like:

"You know, I think Elvis would love to sing gospel music to a large audience. He could draw huge crowds like the one we just saw and perhaps get inspired again. Perhaps it might get him out of his funk and and save Elvis."

Also, just try to imagine someone saying that!

Post-Elvis death, author talks about how Colonel sold seven semi trucks worth of Elvis memorabilia for the "bargain basement" price of $2 million. Author paints this as a good thing. But... WTF? So, is Colonel a terrible businessman? Why would he have sold it at that price if he could have got way more? Did he need to unload it because he needed cash? It's presented that he always tried to do what's best for Lisa Marie, but then why make such a terrible deal?

More sloppy writing "The press reviews are mixed on this two week tour, some complimentary, some are not."

Yep, that's what mixed means.

Some things that are not clear, "The Colonel was persistent and when he persisted, well, he persisted if you get the hint."

Actually... no, I don't get the hint. What the hell does that mean? Makes it sound like he's doing some illegal, mafia type shit, and yet, I'm sure that wasn't the author's intent.

Perhaps one damning anecdote the author didn't intend to come off that way was Elvis hugging a guy for telling him he was too overweight and saying he was the only guy who was ever honest with him. Basically saying The Colonel was not honest with him.

Book talks about how all Colonel did was work 18 hour days and do nothing but think about Elvis. You know, except the 12-14 hour days he would spend gambling.

https://luxurylondon.co.uk/culture/en...

This could have been an interesting book had the author taken of their rose colored glasses. Elvis, biggest star on the planet but an addict. Colonel, made $100 million but had a huge gambling issue. They kind of needed each other. Both had their faults. Both fucked up. Here's their story. But that's not that this is. It's a friend of the Colonel talking about how misunderstood and great he was. Sound interesting to you? Go for it.

Anyway, thanks a lot DAD for saying this book was great. What a ding dong. I'm hungry and I'm going to go eat lunch.

TLDR do NOT read this book unless you're a friend or family member of The Colonel.

[Robin Perkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book as part of a Goodreads giveaway.

This was a well written book, but if you are looking for an Elvis lovefest you will be disappointed. I did find the story slightly slanted as it is told from Greg McDonald’s point of view who was living with the Colonel. I have read other books about this relationship and this is more of the same.

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book paints a very rosy picture of the Colonel, but it was well-written and contains interesting stories. (Too bad we will never know Elvis’s side of things since he never wrote a memoir.) Not really sure what to make of the Colonel as he was so controversial. I’m sure he had his good qualities like every human, but at his core he was a carny and the carnival “game” is all about deception.

[Vincenzo Ridente · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very excellent well researched account into one of the most legendary partnerships in show business Elvis and Colonel Tom Parker

[Chuck Turner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Respective perspective.

[Jenny Carlson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a different view than the Baz Luhrman film. This book depicts Col. Tom Parker as Elvis's protector and shield, not the villain. Fantastic read!

[Colton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Closer to 3.5, but rounded up to 4.

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting to hear another perspective.

[Isabella · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 🌟

This was by no means a badly written book. If anything, it is a palate cleanser of discourse between these two iconic men. However, claims in here don't line up with lots of other claims in the past, as do much of history regarding Elvis and his personal connections with humans. It's just the way things end for celebrities and fame.

This painted such a vivid picture of the Colonel that I hadn't heard of before or knew existed. By the end, I felt educated and informed on his background more than any film or documentary could give. This book gives a more human look at the Colonel, through the eyes of someone who grew up with him as a father figure. It also dispels a lot of rumors or claims that come from the new movie, Elvis, which were the hardest parts for me to digest and buy. The thing is, McDonald comes from an extremely biased POV here, and his pure love and admiration for Parker shines here so much. It's almost as if someone writing about a parent they adore, with minimal shortcomings displayed. McDonald, though sympathetic mostly towards Elvis (as he knew him personally as well) comes across a bit more judge and jury towards Elvis than Parker. I felt this wasn't fair, as ultimately the tragedy of Elvis was due to both men being money hungry in different ways.

All in all, I appreciated the highly researched evidence provided here that gave much to think about and reconsider. Parker will be seen as more a human in my eyes, but a complicated one at best, still. I can't un-know the participation he did, in fact play in the undoing of Elvis (just as much as Elvis himself played).

Worth a read if you enjoy alternate perspectives on popular topics and discourse.

[Robert Swanson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book focuses mostly on the Colonel and his career and not on the sordid details of Presley's bad behavior. The author had a close relationship with the Colonel and was involved in many of the negotiations and deals that have been erroneously portrayed by the press over the last 40 years. I believe this book is a very truthful retelling of the Colonel, his management prowess and absolute devotion to Presley over the course of his career. The Colonel is not the bad guy and I'm glad I read this book.

[Linda A Seidman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Change of heart

Loved the book. I highly recommend this side of the Elvis story to ALL Elvis fans. Explains their legendary relationship during the glory days. I firmly believe that Elvis wouldn't be the icon star that he is today without his Colonel Parker

[Sherman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read many books about Elvis but this one was different. Mostly about Colonel Parker and things you never knew about him and another view of him than what we have heard. A sad ending to a gteat star who we will never forget. I highly recommend this one.

[Kenneth Hawk · Rating 5 out of 5]

excellent

A very interesting book that goes into great detail about the lives of two men and the people who orbited around them.

[kw204741 · Rating 1 out of 5]

One of the biggest trolls I've ever read.