Red West

[samses]

I have had all the EIC footage for may years. It is actually more and more difficult to watch it for every time. It´s so obvious that Elvis should not have been touring in that shape. To release would not do any good. All the footage is out there for those who want watch it. There are hours and hours of unreleased footage of Elvis that could be released instead of this crap.

[Juan Luis]

You could say that "Elvis, What Happened?" and "Elvis In Concert" had a symbiotic relationship to each other. "Elvis In Concert" confirmed what was in the book and the book confirmed what you were seeing on "Elvis In Concert". Either one by itself was probably not enough to do permanent damage to his career. The fact that the book was written by a tabloid reporter and three disgruntled, fired employees and came out right off the bat as a paperback instead of a hardcover book and was serialized in a supermarket tabloid (The Star) at the same time, really undermined it's credibility. And the TV special (the way it was edited) could be seen as Elvis just being overweight and out of shape and maybe being overworked and being on the road for too long. But when you watch the "EIC" with the knowledge of what was in the book, it becomes much more damaging.

I disagree. Elvis In Concert has had a lasting, damaging effect for over 40 years. The imagery from that train-wreck has been the source and inspiration of endless jokes, cliches, and ridicule by the public and entertainment press, many who have likely not thumbed through a paperback of Elvis What Happened?, particularly in recent decades. That said, I do agree that together, both the television special and the book and a one-two punch circa 1977, but in terms of long-term damage, Elvis In Concert has had a life of its own, making it a permanent stain on Elvis' legacy.

I disagree. It might have had some "stain" back then but...
If it was released today, it would gain more sympathy than "damage".
That's a fact.

It is ironic that a number of fans who trash Red West (and Sonny West and Dave Hebler) for writing a scandalous, yet mostly accurate book forty years ago that has been long out of print, often are the ones who continue to campaign for the official release of Elvis In Concert, the most polarizing, damaging visual Elvis Presley project ever produced. If you care so much about protecting Elvis and keeping his problems under wraps, then why unleash a spectacle that exposes a number of his problems and subjects him to present-day ridicule?

Trash? Are You sure about that?

[Delboy]

Always did and still do have great respect for Red West.

Nothing more to add as the comments made above are accurate. The insights provided by a number of members above are spot on. I've always felt it was regrettable that Red and Sonny as well, were let go. Who knows, if Vernon could have "saved money" elsewhere, perhaps the end of Elvis' story would be different.

rlj

Well he could have got rid of the Stanley's for a start. Even though they were hard working, God fearing, competent, professional bodyguards.

I have never had any issues with Red West. He cared for his friend and was treated badly. I think he thought it was the final throw of the dice. He had been paid off with one week's notice and had to sell his house. Okay they got hotels, expenses etc but I understand they were quite poorly paid. They were made an offer. What would you do in the same scenario? If you read the book Red never insults Elvis more hopes he gets back on track.

Elvis "I just want you and Pat to know I'm still here". Really?

[MikeFromHolland]

Red West songs:-

That's Someone You'll Never Forget (1961)
You'll Be Gone (1962)
If You Think I Don't Need You (with Joey Cooper) (1963)
If Every Day Was Like Christmas (1966)
Holly Leaves and Christmas Trees (1971)
Seeing Is Believing (1971)
Separate Ways (1972)
If You Talk In Your Sleep (1973)

Home recordings - Feb 1966
I've Been Blue

It's no Fun Being Lonely
Mary Lou Brown

Andy

Thanks, Andy

Hard to pick a favorite, but love the Christmas songs

Nice list. Thanks!



I picked out "Mary Lou Brown" for Charlie Hodge and Gerald Nelson might be the composers, in stead of West:

The By Liners seem to have released just one record, containing the original version of "Mary Lou Brown" backed with "Archie's Melody." The record was released in 1961 (recording date unknown) as a 45 RPM on the Felsted label, number 45-8631.

Jorgensen lists Red West as the composer, and West is also indicated on the Elvid CD, "The Home Recordings," but the recording label itself gives writing credits to Gerald Nelson and Charles Hodge.

Mary Lou Brown - The By Liners - label 45-8631 - Felsted.png

Source: http://davidneale.eu/elvis/originals/list6.html#S1365


The release date was November 1961 according to http://www.45cat.com/record/458631v. Though Neale writes they seem to have released just one record, they did have another record which was released in October 1962 on Felstad 45-8644: Simple Little Symphony, backed by Ain't It Great To Be Crazy. Simple Little Symphony however, was written by Bobby "Red" West and Gerald Nelson. So here we have another one for the list (though not recorded by Elvis, as far as we know). Source: http://www.45cat.com/record/458644.

From Billboard October 27, 1962:

1962 10 27 Billboard - By Liners.png

Bonus

..

Songs I wrote for Elvis

Gerald Nelson - songs I wrote for Elvis.jpg

I thought it might be fun to put together a CD of the original demonstration recordings of songs that I wrote for Elvis Presley. Some he recorded, some he didn’t. He was such a good friend and I respected his friendship so much that I never ask him to record any of my work. Lamar Fike or Freddy Beanstalk put those that he did in his hands. Usually they would send me a script and say: ”Write something for this movie”. For the most part that was either fun or insane.

Fun: “Dominique My Bull” I think that was for the “Stay Away Joe” film wherein he buys a bull to breed, the bull turns out to be gay and won’t perform that for which he was purchased. He gets the idea for he and his Indian girl friend to show the bull what to do! They didn’t use this song in the movie, perhaps today they might? Another fun write was “The Chicken Scratch”. Lots of laughter in the studio when I was trying to make the guitar sound like a chicken.
Insane: “Yoga Is As Yoga Does” Now how does one go about writing a song around that title? I thought that this scripted nonsense has to be a joke. It turned out to be the absolute worst Song I ever heard! This crazy composition was used in the “Easy Come Easy Go” movie along with two others that are on this CD, “Sing You Children” and “The Love Machine”. There were four songs in this movie. I wrote three of them. The best song of the four that I submitted was “Easy Come, Easy Go”, they didn’t use that one. Go figure.

The Elvis movie producers passed on a song “Lazy Love Affair”, for which film I forget. But the demo recording that you can hear on this CD, was later used in two movies: Miami Blue and Caged Fear.


He recorded “If I Were You” and put it in the “Love Letters” album. Oddly enough this song, even today, gets quite a bit of airplay and sales around the world. It’s the only non-movie song of mine that was ever submitted to him.

For those of you who like “tid-bits” here is an interesting one for you. A contemporary standard, “Tragedy”, was written by Fred Burch and me. The song has sold millions and millions of records and has been recorded by 20-25 different artists over the years. We wrote the song for Elvis! Chet Atkins was Elvis’s producer at RCA at the time and I sent it to Chet for Elvis. Chet passed on the song. Years later Chet told me that he “missed on that one, but that he would make it up to me” He did. He recorded it in years to come by Charlie Rich, Floyd Cramer, and the Anita Kerr Singers. I didn’t include it in this collection because Paul McCartney later purchased the publishing, you know that Beatle boy, and it is too much trouble to get a license for use in a little project like this.

I hope you get some fun out of listening to some of this stuff. By the way check out “If I Were You” and “Tragedy” by KATHIA, the Midnight Madness album on CD Baby. Com. She’s a great talent!

Gerald Nelson

1. If I Were You
2. Sing You Children
3. The Love Machine
4. Yoga Is As Yoga Does
5. Easy Come, Easy Go
6. Lazy Love Affair
7. Let Me Tell You Something New
8. Long Vacation
9. Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained
10. That's Allright With Me
11. Clambake
12. Dancing Out of My Life
13. Danger Beware
14. Ferryboat From Dover
15. Double Trouble
16. Dominique My Bull
17. How Can I
18. I'll Take Love
19. The Chicken Scratch

Source: https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/geraldnelson



Other nice reads on this topic:

Mary Lou Brown --> A Songwriting Mystery
http://www.elvis-collectors.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=80443#p1237287

Meet Gerald Nelson, Mysterious Elvis Songwriter
http://www.elvis-collectors.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=52973#p760832



.

[lanadelslay]

I agree that it was written out of revenge, and I have no interest in reading it. I'm sure a certain someone will call me "incurious" because of my position.

Yes, and I don't understand those people who say they did it to help Elvis "realize" he's an addict, not only did Red "exposed" his "best friend" but he also recorded one of their phone call conversation. It's almost like they really thought they could be lazy and not make a living by themselves. Always depending on him to make money when they're grown ass men. I do think their friendship was real but by the end I think he really ****** up. And despite everything Elvis still offered to help him and his wife Pat

[drjohncarpenter]

I agree that it was written out of revenge, and I have no interest in reading it. I'm sure a certain someone will call me "incurious" because of my position.

Yes, and I don't understand those people who say they did it to help Elvis "realize" he's an addict, not only did Red "exposed" his "best friend" but he also recorded one of their phone call conversation. It's almost like they really thought they could be lazy and not make a living by themselves. Always depending on him to make money when they're grown ass men. I do think their friendship was real but by the end I think he really ****** up. And despite everything Elvis still offered to help him and his wife Pat

These are very misguided, false and unfair condemnations. It is offensive to read them.

It's unclear who are the "people" you refer to, but it is a fact that one of the motivations for the book was to force Elvis to accept how his misuse of pharmaceuticals was severe, and life-threatening.

The authors were also aware that they were not "let go" by Elvis' father because of expenses, but because Red, in particular, was devoting too much time to trying to get his friend to break his cycle of self-abuse.

West taped the phone call because he heard rumors that his "best friend" was thinking of hiring a hit man to kill him. He, of course, had been there in February 1973 when Presley repeatedly and angrily directed his bodyguards to hire someone to murder his soon-to-be ex-wife's boyfriend. So he wanted evidence on tape if his friend threatened his life. I agree, that is really ****** up.

"Lazy"? Red was an actor at the time of the book, a cast member of NBC's "Baa Baa Black Sheep," which Elvis had nothing to do with.

And yes, despite everything, Elvis offered to "help" Red and Pat, after West told him he lost his house following the firing. Did he follow through on that promise? No.

No one is perfect in this 40+ year-old story, and virtually everyone involved is dead now, but let's keep it real if you're going to bother to bring it up. Thanks.

[lanadelslay]

I agree that it was written out of revenge, and I have no interest in reading it. I'm sure a certain someone will call me "incurious" because of my position.

Yes, and I don't understand those people who say they did it to help Elvis "realize" he's an addict, not only did Red "exposed" his "best friend" but he also recorded one of their phone call conversation. It's almost like they really thought they could be lazy and not make a living by themselves. Always depending on him to make money when they're grown ass men. I do think their friendship was real but by the end I think he really ****** up. And despite everything Elvis still offered to help him and his wife Pat

These are very misguided, false and unfair condemnations. It is offensive to read them.

It's unclear who are the "people" you refer to, but it is a fact that one of the motivations for the book was to force Elvis to accept how his misuse of pharmaceuticals was severe, and life-threatening.

The authors were also aware that they were not "let go" by Elvis' father because of expenses, but because Red, in particular, was devoting too much time to trying to get his friend to break his cycle of self-abuse.

West taped the phone call because he heard rumors that his "best friend" was thinking of hiring a hit man to kill him. He, of course, had been there in February 1973 when Presley repeatedly and angrily directed his bodyguards to hire someone to murder his soon-to-be ex-wife's boyfriend. So he wanted evidence on tape if his friend threatened his life. I agree, that is really ****** up.

"Lazy"? Red was an actor at the time of the book, a cast member of NBC's "Baa Baa Black Sheep," which Elvis had nothing to do with.

And yes, despite everything, Elvis offered to "help" Red and Pat, after West told him he lost his house following the firing. Did he follow through on that promise? No.

No one is perfect in this 40+ year-old story, and virtually everyone involved is dead now, but let's keep it real if you're going to bother to bring it up. Thanks.

Well, that's how you see it, but not how I see it. And truthfully there are evidence for both theory, that he helped write the book cause he got angry and needed $$$ or to help Elvis. But why would you hurt your friend's image and humiliate him in front of the whole world by publishing frankly humiliating stories about him and his behavior, when you know that he cared a lot about how his fans viewed him, that his public image was everything to him? You gotta be a little biased to think that after 20 years of work, that Sonny or Red wouldn't feel betrayed for being fired suddenly, there was anger here and it translated into some kind of revenge to get "even" primarly, and then to help maybe but then again, would it really help somebody to just tell the world that you're an addict? It hurts more than anything else, that's not help, that's humiliation. You just look at it in the superstar perspective, but if you just put yourself in Elvis' shoes, would you like your bestfriend to tell everyone you know, your colleagues at work, the friends of your friends, your wife's friends, your family, everyone that knows you, that you're an addict and that you stay in bed sometimes popping pills, you never see the sun, you're depressed, overweight... How would you feel? Would you sincerely think that friend is out to "help" you? lol You'd feel betrayed and hurt, would you wanna help your friend with his house after how he reacted to you firing him? I don't think so.

Also Red's "career" isn't groundbreaking, couple work as a stuntman, and small roles here and there, nothing serious, his main work was to work for Elvis, and depending on him for money. But E had too many people who depended on him, and separating himself from all those responsibilities makes him a bad man. I just think it's kinda crazy how writing a book about someone's personal struggle is redeemed okay and a "help" because it's an icon like Elvis, it was just a man struggling, and he in my opinion really didn't deserve that type of "help", he could've used something else more gentle, or... I don't know, nicer? (Although we all know nothing really worked).

You can notice it in the conversation that Mr West recorded, that he was angry, and disappointed, and in serious need of work, but what work, and how will he pay his bills and take care of his kids etc etc, there's a sense of urgency, and betrayal that the one who helped you all those years just fires you out of the blue like that, and you're left struggling. It's harsh too what Elvis did, it's not kind either, but pretending that this book was a reaction of only Elvis' denial of his addiction is crazy. Red also cared about his own family, his own bank account, like all normal human beings, of course he helped writing this book to get 'even' with what E did, I mean c'mon, you gotta be super politically correct or biased. (or just have a different opinion which is fine too )

In the end, did it help? Sure it was published after he died but he knew of it... I think it broke him more than anything, feeling like a dollar sign more than a person and wondering if all the friends he had were real or not, or if it even matters to get better since he's "alone", who knows how it could've deteriorated his depression.

By the way I do think Red cared about his friend, and that he was a good friend but by the end sh*t turned south, on both sides really, although that book was pretty cruel imo

[Hard Rocker]

West is on videotape on stage at a fan meeting saying that part of the reason he wrote the book was for money. "You bet your a*s it was", he said... or something very close to that. So then, several reasons... but it was not entirely "to help his friend".

[Juan Luis]

"It was out of bitterness and hurt" -Sonny West.
It is impossible to even imagine how deeply Elvis was hurt with the public outing by the tell-all "bodyguard" book. The private Elvis was murdered. Made lumber of a falling tree.

[Liverbobs]

Nobody came out of the book episode with a lot of credit, Elvis did the dirty on the guys and they responded in kind, partly for money and I do believe that they did try to help him, unfortunately, just my opinion of course, that on the morning of 16th August when Elvis couldn't sleep due to him worrying what his fans would say/ how they would react on the upcoming tour, he over did the medication.

[drjohncarpenter]

Yes, and I don't understand those people who say they did it to help Elvis "realize" he's an addict, not only did Red "exposed" his "best friend" but he also recorded one of their phone call conversation. It's almost like they really thought they could be lazy and not make a living by themselves. Always depending on him to make money when they're grown ass men. I do think their friendship was real but by the end I think he really ****** up. And despite everything Elvis still offered to help him and his wife Pat

These are very misguided, false and unfair condemnations. It is offensive to read them.

It's unclear who are the "people" you refer to, but it is a fact that one of the motivations for the book was to force Elvis to accept how his misuse of pharmaceuticals was severe, and life-threatening.

The authors were also aware that they were not "let go" by Elvis' father because of expenses, but because Red, in particular, was devoting too much time to trying to get his friend to break his cycle of self-abuse.

West taped the phone call because he heard rumors that his "best friend" was thinking of hiring a hit man to kill him. He, of course, had been there in February 1973 when Presley repeatedly and angrily directed his bodyguards to hire someone to murder his soon-to-be ex-wife's boyfriend. So he wanted evidence on tape if his friend threatened his life. I agree, that is really ****** up.

"Lazy"? Red was an actor at the time of the book, a cast member of NBC's "Baa Baa Black Sheep," which Elvis had nothing to do with.

And yes, despite everything, Elvis offered to "help" Red and Pat, after West told him he lost his house following the firing. Did he follow through on that promise? No.

No one is perfect in this 40+ year-old story, and virtually everyone involved is dead now, but let's keep it real if you're going to bother to bring it up. Thanks.

Well, that's how you see it, but not how I see it.

It's not just "how I see it," but a series of factual statements. Your comments are emotional, but devoid of facts.

That's the difference.

Again, disparaging someone with emotion but zero facts is offensive to read.

[lanadelslay]

Yes, and I don't understand those people who say they did it to help Elvis "realize" he's an addict, not only did Red "exposed" his "best friend" but he also recorded one of their phone call conversation. It's almost like they really thought they could be lazy and not make a living by themselves. Always depending on him to make money when they're grown ass men. I do think their friendship was real but by the end I think he really ****** up. And despite everything Elvis still offered to help him and his wife Pat

These are very misguided, false and unfair condemnations. It is offensive to read them.

It's unclear who are the "people" you refer to, but it is a fact that one of the motivations for the book was to force Elvis to accept how his misuse of pharmaceuticals was severe, and life-threatening.

The authors were also aware that they were not "let go" by Elvis' father because of expenses, but because Red, in particular, was devoting too much time to trying to get his friend to break his cycle of self-abuse.

West taped the phone call because he heard rumors that his "best friend" was thinking of hiring a hit man to kill him. He, of course, had been there in February 1973 when Presley repeatedly and angrily directed his bodyguards to hire someone to murder his soon-to-be ex-wife's boyfriend. So he wanted evidence on tape if his friend threatened his life. I agree, that is really ****** up.

"Lazy"? Red was an actor at the time of the book, a cast member of NBC's "Baa Baa Black Sheep," which Elvis had nothing to do with.

And yes, despite everything, Elvis offered to "help" Red and Pat, after West told him he lost his house following the firing. Did he follow through on that promise? No.

No one is perfect in this 40+ year-old story, and virtually everyone involved is dead now, but let's keep it real if you're going to bother to bring it up. Thanks.

Well, that's how you see it, but not how I see it.

It's not just "how I see it," but a series of factual statements. Your comments are emotional, but devoid of facts.

That's the difference.

Again, disparaging someone with emotion but zero facts is offensive to read.

Your statements are based on what Red and Sonny said in press conferences etc, that's not really a fact.

[poppii]

I hope this post does not offend anyone, but while listening to Elvis Radio on Sirius ( a replay) Red West was on with George Klein. He was talking about Elvis mother and was so proud that she personally told him to " take care of Elvis" before she died. Wow- then how could he betray Elvis. It amazes me how these guys now act as if they truly loved and cared for Elvis. In my opinion, if they did they would have not betrayed him by writing about his addiction. He was human and had problems like the rest of us. That was private and should have stayed like that. What they loved was his money and hanging around to enjoy life with no responsibilities. The video " All The Kings Men' was another attempt for them to cash in since their human ATM card was no longer around. What a shame.

Of course, Bobby "Red" West's memory of Gladys Presley was in regards to when he accompanied her son on tour in 1956, well before her illness and unexpected passing in August 1958.

Your view of what transpired 19 years later is rather short-sighted, and calling Red a gold digger even more so.

There were many betrayals of Red by Elvis along the way, most notably the last-minute exclusion from his May 1967 wedding in Las Vegas, after being invited and showing up at the Aladdin. The unstated reason he, his cousin Delbert "Sonny" West, and friend Dave Hebler were "let go" in the middle of 1976 was because they were spending too much time trying to convince their friend that his drug usage was out of control. It was not to "cut down on expenses." This is what true friends do, but Elvis didn't want to face reality.

The 1977 book was crafted out of anger over the firing, which Vernon handled, deep concern for Elvis' health, and a need to generate income. My suspicion is that Red hoped management would intervene before it ever got printed, and a real dialogue might happen regarding Presley's health issues. But it didn't happen, and we all know that about 13 months after the bodyguards were dismissed, Presley was gone forever.

Maybe more around Elvis should have done as Red tried to do, instead of keeping things "private." Maybe something different might have happened in 1977.

Excellent post, John! One can only imagine the crap, specifically Red and Sonny, had to put up with from 70-76 those times when Elvis was "out of his mind". And on top of that, being at his beckon call 24 hours a day...
These two guys were willing to take a bullet for this man. I'm sure Red didn't spend more than 20 years of his life working for Elvis because the pay was great.

They could have done more . They did okay out of Elvis . Elvis is the only the man who bought each and every one of his friends houses. Two cars per year. He paid their medical bills and they lived in his houses, drove his cars,had paid for flights and expenses. He bought Jerry Schilling a house only the year before he died and where was Jerry in 1977. All very quick to take but not to care for the man who provided for them and no matter what you say by all accounts Elvis was a humble man. Even these ones said it....he listened when Jerry wanted a a home as he had lost his mother. He went to Red 's fathers funeral even though his mothers was the day before. I feel Red could and should have done more. I think he cared but he really went at it the wrong way . You know they said in later years that with Elvis....the grass was always greener, the sky was bluer,he kept them so they never felt the cold or rain and they loved that life. Also....his medical problems were never addressed only the symptoms. Many medical people have re examined his medical history and found he likely had TBI and the pain he was in was the reason he took the painkillers. He wasn't addicted so much as in agony with the pain of his trauma. Research in medicine has improved in the 40 years he has been gone. And before you poo poo all this.....even today...doctors treat only the symptoms not the root cause and people can be in agony for years and then this happens. Someone close to me had this happen here in the UK. Started off as something quite simple but 2 years later...fatal and its prescribed medication . They will not treat the root cause. Every time you visit the doctor its another round of pills and they tell you the side effects on top of it. So yes Red was a good friend but not friend enough although he was probably his best friend. They lived in luxury and they did not want to leave . Red West and Sonny got jobs on the side while working for Elvis not so much to suppliment their income although they will have you believe that but in addition and they got those jobs because of Elvis...in his films to begin with and other films later. Jerry Schilling got jobs because of Elvis . They went to Hollywood with him and met his contacts. He could have left them at home or out of sight but didn't. If he met some film star....he had them meet that same star. When he met the president.....he made Nixon call Jerry and Sonny in too. Both of these and others like Joe said that no other star would do that where their friend lived his life without them having to do anything apart from just be there. I think in the 80's and 90's it seemed fashionable to slag Elvis off. Every Tom Dick and Harry wrote some trashy book and that includes Priscilla. But the more they speak the more many people are realising the flaws in their stories . Yes Elvis was on prescription drugs but these people did nothing whatsover to help him find the root cause and solution. In fact they added to his situation and seemed to enjoy doing it. I believe Red was a good friend but really....it was Vernon who fired them (Red and Sonny had been accused of roughing up fans as well) But if Red cared truly he would have persisted in being there for Elvis not turned the knife when he was down. Priscilla did the same too and now is acting otherwise.

[poppii]

https://www.practicalpainmanagement.com/pain/other/brain-injury/elvis-presley-head-trauma-autoimmunity-pain-early-death


Medical records examination.

[midnightx]

Elvis is the only the man who bought each and every one of his friends houses. Two cars per year.

Elvis did not buy "each and every one" of his friends houses and two cars per year. Where did you hear that from?

He bought Jerry Schilling a house only the year before he died and where was Jerry in 1977.

Elvis bought Jerry a home a couple of years earlier, not 1976. And if you know anything about what transpired between Elvis and Jerry in 1976, you would understand why Jerry was not at Graceland during August 1977.

[Hard Rocker]

Is it a secret? Do tell! Pretty please.

[poppii]

Elvis is the only the man who bought each and every one of his friends houses. Two cars per year.

Elvis did not buy "each and every one" of his friends houses and two cars per year. Where did you hear that from?

He bought Jerry Schilling a house only the year before he died and where was Jerry in 1977.

Elvis bought Jerry a home a couple of years earlier, not 1976. And if you know anything about what transpired between Elvis and Jerry in 1976, you would understand why Jerry was not at Graceland during August 1977.

That he bought his friends houses is well documented and not to mention others like his relatives, Priscilla and her parents, Linda and others. Regarding the friends....you hear that from their own stories and GK has put it in a nutshell and he wasn't even with Elvis full time like Red was.

I know about Jerry and nothing he can say can excuse the fact that he was not there for Elvis....when Elvis was always there for him. Elvis took Jerry in, gave him contacts and set him up in house and home. Even Jerry's own family didn't do that for Jerry so Jerry could have thought on that. There is something about these friends/relatives/wife who somehow think that Elvis gained from them when it was the other way round . They seemed to want the high life which he did indeed give them but they wanted to be able to complain too and beside themselves when its withdrawn from them....then they want it back .

[Tony Trout]

I hope this post does not offend anyone, but while listening to Elvis Radio on Sirius ( a replay) Red West was on with George Klein. He was talking about Elvis mother and was so proud that she personally told him to " take care of Elvis" before she died. Wow- then how could he betray Elvis. It amazes me how these guys now act as if they truly loved and cared for Elvis. In my opinion, if they did they would have not betrayed him by writing about his addiction. He was human and had problems like the rest of us. That was private and should have stayed like that. What they loved was his money and hanging around to enjoy life with no responsibilities. The video " All The Kings Men' was another attempt for them to cash in since their human ATM card was no longer around. What a shame.

Of course, Bobby "Red" West's memory of Gladys Presley was in regards to when he accompanied her son on tour in 1956, well before her illness and unexpected passing in August 1958.

Your view of what transpired 19 years later is rather short-sighted, and calling Red a gold digger even more so.

There were many betrayals of Red by Elvis along the way, most notably the last-minute exclusion from his May 1967 wedding in Las Vegas, after being invited and showing up at the Aladdin. The unstated reason he, his cousin Delbert "Sonny" West, and friend Dave Hebler were "let go" in the middle of 1976 was because they were spending too much time trying to convince their friend that his drug usage was out of control. It was not to "cut down on expenses." This is what true friends do, but Elvis didn't want to face reality.

The 1977 book was crafted out of anger over the firing, which Vernon handled, deep concern for Elvis' health, and a need to generate income. My suspicion is that Red hoped management would intervene before it ever got printed, and a real dialogue might happen regarding Presley's health issues. But it didn't happen, and we all know that about 13 months after the bodyguards were dismissed, Presley was gone forever.

Maybe more around Elvis should have done as Red tried to do, instead of keeping things "private." Maybe something different might have happened in 1977.

Excellent post, John! One can only imagine the crap, specifically Red and Sonny, had to put up with from 70-76 those times when Elvis was "out of his mind". And on top of that, being at his beckon call 24 hours a day...
These two guys were willing to take a bullet for this man. I'm sure Red didn't spend more than 20 years of his life working for Elvis because the pay was great.

They could have done more . They did okay out of Elvis . Elvis is the only the man who bought each and every one of his friends houses. Two cars per year. He paid their medical bills and they lived in his houses, drove his cars,had paid for flights and expenses. He bought Jerry Schilling a house only the year before he died and where was Jerry in 1977. All very quick to take but not to care for the man who provided for them and no matter what you say by all accounts Elvis was a humble man. Even these ones said it....he listened when Jerry wanted a a home as he had lost his mother. He went to Red 's fathers funeral even though his mothers was the day before. I feel Red could and should have done more. I think he cared but he really went at it the wrong way . You know they said in later years that with Elvis....the grass was always greener, the sky was bluer,he kept them so they never felt the cold or rain and they loved that life. Also....his medical problems were never addressed only the symptoms. Many medical people have re examined his medical history and found he likely had TBI and all the pain he was in was the cause of him taking the painkillers. He wasn't addicted so much as in agony with the pain of his trauma. Research in medicine has improved in the 40 years he has been gone. And before you poo poo all this.....even today...doctors treat only the symptom not the root cause and people can be in agony for years and then this happens. Someone close to me had this happen here in the UK. Every time you visit the doctor its another round of medicine/pills and they tell you the side effects on top of it. So yes Red was a good friend but not friend enough although he was probably his best friend. They lived in luxury and they did not want to leave . Red West and Sonny got jobs on the side while working for Elvis not so much to suppliment their income although they will have you believe that but in addition and they got those jobs because of Elvis...in his films to begin with and other films later. Jerry Schilling got jobs because of Elvis . They went to Hollywood with him and met his contacts. He could have left them at home or out of sight but didn't. If he met some film star....he had them meet that same star. When he met the president.....he made Nixon call Jerry and Sonny in too. Both of these and others like Joe said that no other star would do that where their friend lived his life without them having to do anything apart from just be there. I think in the 80's and 90's it seemed fashionable to slag Elvis off. Every Tom Dick and Harry wrote some trashy book and that includes Priscilla. But the more they speak the more many people are realising the flaws in their stories . Yes Elvis was on prescription drugs but these people did nothing whatsover to help him find the root cause and solution. In fact they added to his situation and seemed to enjoy doing it. I believe Red was a good friend but really....it was Vernon who fired them (Red and Sonny had been accused of roughing up fans as well) But if Red cared truly he would have persisted in being there for Elvis not turned the knife when he was down. Priscilla did the same too and now is acting otherwise.

My head hurts after reading that......please try to make some sense next time you post.

https://www.practicalpainmanagement.com/pain/other/brain-injury/elvis-presley-head-trauma-autoimmunity-pain-early-death


Medical records examination.

And another off-topic post.....what does this have to do with the book the West cousins & Hebler "wrote" (but Dunleavy sensationalized the book to make it more "buyable", if that makes sense).

[elvis-fan]

I hope this post does not offend anyone, but while listening to Elvis Radio on Sirius ( a replay) Red West was on with George Klein. He was talking about Elvis mother and was so proud that she personally told him to " take care of Elvis" before she died. Wow- then how could he betray Elvis. It amazes me how these guys now act as if they truly loved and cared for Elvis. In my opinion, if they did they would have not betrayed him by writing about his addiction. He was human and had problems like the rest of us. That was private and should have stayed like that. What they loved was his money and hanging around to enjoy life with no responsibilities. The video " All The Kings Men' was another attempt for them to cash in since their human ATM card was no longer around. What a shame.

Of course, Bobby "Red" West's memory of Gladys Presley was in regards to when he accompanied her son on tour in 1956, well before her illness and unexpected passing in August 1958.

Your view of what transpired 19 years later is rather short-sighted, and calling Red a gold digger even more so.

There were many betrayals of Red by Elvis along the way, most notably the last-minute exclusion from his May 1967 wedding in Las Vegas, after being invited and showing up at the Aladdin. The unstated reason he, his cousin Delbert "Sonny" West, and friend Dave Hebler were "let go" in the middle of 1976 was because they were spending too much time trying to convince their friend that his drug usage was out of control. It was not to "cut down on expenses." This is what true friends do, but Elvis didn't want to face reality.

The 1977 book was crafted out of anger over the firing, which Vernon handled, deep concern for Elvis' health, and a need to generate income. My suspicion is that Red hoped management would intervene before it ever got printed, and a real dialogue might happen regarding Presley's health issues. But it didn't happen, and we all know that about 13 months after the bodyguards were dismissed, Presley was gone forever.

Maybe more around Elvis should have done as Red tried to do, instead of keeping things "private." Maybe something different might have happened in 1977.

Excellent post, John! One can only imagine the crap, specifically Red and Sonny, had to put up with from 70-76 those times when Elvis was "out of his mind". And on top of that, being at his beckon call 24 hours a day...
These two guys were willing to take a bullet for this man. I'm sure Red didn't spend more than 20 years of his life working for Elvis because the pay was great.

They could have done more . They did okay out of Elvis . Elvis is the only the man who bought each and every one of his friends houses. Two cars per year. He paid their medical bills and they lived in his houses, drove his cars,had paid for flights and expenses. He bought Jerry Schilling a house only the year before he died and where was Jerry in 1977. All very quick to take but not to care for the man who provided for them and no matter what you say by all accounts Elvis was a humble man. Even these ones said it....he listened when Jerry wanted a a home as he had lost his mother. He went to Red 's fathers funeral even though his mothers was the day before. I feel Red could and should have done more. I think he cared but he really went at it the wrong way . You know they said in later years that with Elvis....the grass was always greener, the sky was bluer,he kept them so they never felt the cold or rain and they loved that life. Also....his medical problems were never addressed only the symptoms. Many medical people have re examined his medical history and found he likely had TBI and all the pain he was in was the cause of him taking the painkillers. He wasn't addicted so much as in agony with the pain of his trauma. Research in medicine has improved in the 40 years he has been gone. And before you poo poo all this.....even today...doctors treat only the symptom not the root cause and people can be in agony for years and then this happens. Someone close to me had this happen here in the UK. Every time you visit the doctor its another round of medicine/pills and they tell you the side effects on top of it. So yes Red was a good friend but not friend enough although he was probably his best friend. They lived in luxury and they did not want to leave . Red West and Sonny got jobs on the side while working for Elvis not so much to suppliment their income although they will have you believe that but in addition and they got those jobs because of Elvis...in his films to begin with and other films later. Jerry Schilling got jobs because of Elvis . They went to Hollywood with him and met his contacts. He could have left them at home or out of sight but didn't. If he met some film star....he had them meet that same star. When he met the president.....he made Nixon call Jerry and Sonny in too. Both of these and others like Joe said that no other star would do that where their friend lived his life without them having to do anything apart from just be there. I think in the 80's and 90's it seemed fashionable to slag Elvis off. Every Tom Dick and Harry wrote some trashy book and that includes Priscilla. But the more they speak the more many people are realising the flaws in their stories . Yes Elvis was on prescription drugs but these people did nothing whatsover to help him find the root cause and solution. In fact they added to his situation and seemed to enjoy doing it. I believe Red was a good friend but really....it was Vernon who fired them (Red and Sonny had been accused of roughing up fans as well) But if Red cared truly he would have persisted in being there for Elvis not turned the knife when he was down. Priscilla did the same too and now is acting otherwise.

Oh look... the troll is back... is that the best login name you could come up with???

[Bill B]

I have recently just read Elvis What Happened? again after many years just to see how hard it really was on him, Well, it was pretty hard on him I can see why it bothered him and his family so bad.. Besides the drug stuff They talk about him having affairs with costars, making homophobic remarks about the incident during Fun in Acapulco and also a racial remark about the sweets after the 1975 incident. That's just a few things, I could list more but won't Red and Sonny were right when they put that the drugs were a small part of the book. But they were wrong when they said most of it was about the good times. Now I'm sure these remarks that Elvis made were not his real feelings, But because of that They didn't need to be put in a book.. As a man now in my 40s I see things different than I did as a young man, I really liked Red and Sonny and I really believe they truly loved Elvis, They should not have wrote the book, I understand they were bitter about being let go but it was a betrayal. As a younger man I didn't feel that way but as an older man and fan Though I liked them both, I really wished they hadn't written it...

[elvis-fan]

I just finished reading Sonny's last book... it is certainly worth a look and quite a bit different from EWH.

[egilj]

The book was more or less a character assassination. It can't be justified morally, it can only be justified by bruised emotiotions. It's not 90% positive, like Red later stated, the book is about 30% positive and 70% negative. I think the three main motivations for writing it was money, to change Elvis (even if Red said in 1997 said that he knew Elvis wasn't going to change) and first an foremost; revenge.

[Hard Rocker]

Yes, that's about the height of it.

[poppii]

I hope this post does not offend anyone, but while listening to Elvis Radio on Sirius ( a replay) Red West was on with George Klein. He was talking about Elvis mother and was so proud that she personally told him to " take care of Elvis" before she died. Wow- then how could he betray Elvis. It amazes me how these guys now act as if they truly loved and cared for Elvis. In my opinion, if they did they would have not betrayed him by writing about his addiction. He was human and had problems like the rest of us. That was private and should have stayed like that. What they loved was his money and hanging around to enjoy life with no responsibilities. The video " All The Kings Men' was another attempt for them to cash in since their human ATM card was no longer around. What a shame.

Of course, Bobby "Red" West's memory of Gladys Presley was in regards to when he accompanied her son on tour in 1956, well before her illness and unexpected passing in August 1958.

Your view of what transpired 19 years later is rather short-sighted, and calling Red a gold digger even more so.

There were many betrayals of Red by Elvis along the way, most notably the last-minute exclusion from his May 1967 wedding in Las Vegas, after being invited and showing up at the Aladdin. The unstated reason he, his cousin Delbert "Sonny" West, and friend Dave Hebler were "let go" in the middle of 1976 was because they were spending too much time trying to convince their friend that his drug usage was out of control. It was not to "cut down on expenses." This is what true friends do, but Elvis didn't want to face reality.

The 1977 book was crafted out of anger over the firing, which Vernon handled, deep concern for Elvis' health, and a need to generate income. My suspicion is that Red hoped management would intervene before it ever got printed, and a real dialogue might happen regarding Presley's health issues. But it didn't happen, and we all know that about 13 months after the bodyguards were dismissed, Presley was gone forever.

Maybe more around Elvis should have done as Red tried to do, instead of keeping things "private." Maybe something different might have happened in 1977.

Excellent post, John! One can only imagine the crap, specifically Red and Sonny, had to put up with from 70-76 those times when Elvis was "out of his mind". And on top of that, being at his beckon call 24 hours a day...
These two guys were willing to take a bullet for this man. I'm sure Red didn't spend more than 20 years of his life working for Elvis because the pay was great.

They could have done more . They did okay out of Elvis . Elvis is the only the man who bought each and every one of his friends houses. Two cars per year. He paid their medical bills and they lived in his houses, drove his cars,had paid for flights and expenses. He bought Jerry Schilling a house only the year before he died and where was Jerry in 1977. All very quick to take but not to care for the man who provided for them and no matter what you say by all accounts Elvis was a humble man. Even these ones said it....he listened when Jerry wanted a a home as he had lost his mother. He went to Red 's fathers funeral even though his mothers was the day before. I feel Red could and should have done more. I think he cared but he really went at it the wrong way . You know they said in later years that with Elvis....the grass was always greener, the sky was bluer,he kept them so they never felt the cold or rain and they loved that life. Also....his medical problems were never addressed only the symptoms. Many medical people have re examined his medical history and found he likely had TBI and all the pain he was in was the cause of him taking the painkillers. He wasn't addicted so much as in agony with the pain of his trauma. Research in medicine has improved in the 40 years he has been gone. And before you poo poo all this.....even today...doctors treat only the symptom not the root cause and people can be in agony for years and then this happens. Someone close to me had this happen here in the UK. Every time you visit the doctor its another round of medicine/pills and they tell you the side effects on top of it. So yes Red was a good friend but not friend enough although he was probably his best friend. They lived in luxury and they did not want to leave . Red West and Sonny got jobs on the side while working for Elvis not so much to suppliment their income although they will have you believe that but in addition and they got those jobs because of Elvis...in his films to begin with and other films later. Jerry Schilling got jobs because of Elvis . They went to Hollywood with him and met his contacts. He could have left them at home or out of sight but didn't. If he met some film star....he had them meet that same star. When he met the president.....he made Nixon call Jerry and Sonny in too. Both of these and others like Joe said that no other star would do that where their friend lived his life without them having to do anything apart from just be there. I think in the 80's and 90's it seemed fashionable to slag Elvis off. Every Tom Dick and Harry wrote some trashy book and that includes Priscilla. But the more they speak the more many people are realising the flaws in their stories . Yes Elvis was on prescription drugs but these people did nothing whatsover to help him find the root cause and solution. In fact they added to his situation and seemed to enjoy doing it. I believe Red was a good friend but really....it was Vernon who fired them (Red and Sonny had been accused of roughing up fans as well) But if Red cared truly he would have persisted in being there for Elvis not turned the knife when he was down. Priscilla did the same too and now is acting otherwise.

My head hurts after reading that......please try to make some sense next time you post.

https://www.practicalpainmanagement.com/pain/other/brain-injury/elvis-presley-head-trauma-autoimmunity-pain-early-death


Medical records examination.

And another off-topic post.....what does this have to do with the book the West cousins & Hebler "wrote" (but Dunleavy sensationalized the book to make it more "buyable", if that makes sense).

I am making sense but you seem only to want one side and that is Red's side and not off topic either. If your head hurts....don't read it. Its pertaining to the discussion as it shows what Elvis might be suffering from. The physical suffering was the cause of the medication. The narrative here is one sided from my point of view . Anything dissing Elvis is accepted as gospel just because Red said it and nobody knows Elvis side. Why does every man and his dog feel that Elvis owed them all the trappings of his wealth, fame and more beside just because they lived in his orbit . John Lennon didn't leave his first son anything at first and at one point MIck Jaggers brother was on Income Support as it was then. This is to illustrate the point that Elvis did provide for his family where others would not , his extended family, his friends (as told by them)....money, expenses, houses, cars, flights etc and the more he gave the more they expected . Red West was right to be concerned and even angry but he should have balanced it with some loyalty . I read here someone saying Red was willing to take a bullet for Elvis . Ok...be realistic here...it was unlikely to happen unless Red was pinned to Elvis' chest on the stage and he never was. Anybody aiming at Elvis could get a direct hit and its only after that Red would need to move from some distance away. The FBI was there too. It was Elvis himself who took the risk. He refused to be intimidated and let the Sweet Inspiations go and he took to the stage as normal. One to one Elvis could defend himself. Its not like like he hadn't in the past or not been trained up in the army.

Apart from everything else....he bought himself a horse....he bought all of them a horse. He got motorbikes....he bought them motorbikes . They could have been better friends to him. Just finished reading Scotty Moore and that is another litany of what Scotty didn't get from Elvis . Are they 5 years old that they couldn't buy their own car or house ?

@Elvis fan. I would appreciate you not getting personal or accuse me of trolling . You have no right to intimidate me as this is a public message forum for Elvis fans I assumed but its seems more like an party room for those wishing to rip him apart.

[egilj]

I hope this post does not offend anyone, but while listening to Elvis Radio on Sirius ( a replay) Red West was on with George Klein. He was talking about Elvis mother and was so proud that she personally told him to " take care of Elvis" before she died. Wow- then how could he betray Elvis. It amazes me how these guys now act as if they truly loved and cared for Elvis. In my opinion, if they did they would have not betrayed him by writing about his addiction. He was human and had problems like the rest of us. That was private and should have stayed like that. What they loved was his money and hanging around to enjoy life with no responsibilities. The video " All The Kings Men' was another attempt for them to cash in since their human ATM card was no longer around. What a shame.

Of course, Bobby "Red" West's memory of Gladys Presley was in regards to when he accompanied her son on tour in 1956, well before her illness and unexpected passing in August 1958.

Your view of what transpired 19 years later is rather short-sighted, and calling Red a gold digger even more so.

There were many betrayals of Red by Elvis along the way, most notably the last-minute exclusion from his May 1967 wedding in Las Vegas, after being invited and showing up at the Aladdin. The unstated reason he, his cousin Delbert "Sonny" West, and friend Dave Hebler were "let go" in the middle of 1976 was because they were spending too much time trying to convince their friend that his drug usage was out of control. It was not to "cut down on expenses." This is what true friends do, but Elvis didn't want to face reality.

The 1977 book was crafted out of anger over the firing, which Vernon handled, deep concern for Elvis' health, and a need to generate income. My suspicion is that Red hoped management would intervene before it ever got printed, and a real dialogue might happen regarding Presley's health issues. But it didn't happen, and we all know that about 13 months after the bodyguards were dismissed, Presley was gone forever.

Maybe more around Elvis should have done as Red tried to do, instead of keeping things "private." Maybe something different might have happened in 1977.

Excellent post, John! One can only imagine the crap, specifically Red and Sonny, had to put up with from 70-76 those times when Elvis was "out of his mind". And on top of that, being at his beckon call 24 hours a day...
These two guys were willing to take a bullet for this man. I'm sure Red didn't spend more than 20 years of his life working for Elvis because the pay was great.

They could have done more . They did okay out of Elvis . Elvis is the only the man who bought each and every one of his friends houses. Two cars per year. He paid their medical bills and they lived in his houses, drove his cars,had paid for flights and expenses. He bought Jerry Schilling a house only the year before he died and where was Jerry in 1977. All very quick to take but not to care for the man who provided for them and no matter what you say by all accounts Elvis was a humble man. Even these ones said it....he listened when Jerry wanted a a home as he had lost his mother. He went to Red 's fathers funeral even though his mothers was the day before. I feel Red could and should have done more. I think he cared but he really went at it the wrong way . You know they said in later years that with Elvis....the grass was always greener, the sky was bluer,he kept them so they never felt the cold or rain and they loved that life. Also....his medical problems were never addressed only the symptoms. Many medical people have re examined his medical history and found he likely had TBI and all the pain he was in was the cause of him taking the painkillers. He wasn't addicted so much as in agony with the pain of his trauma. Research in medicine has improved in the 40 years he has been gone. And before you poo poo all this.....even today...doctors treat only the symptom not the root cause and people can be in agony for years and then this happens. Someone close to me had this happen here in the UK. Every time you visit the doctor its another round of medicine/pills and they tell you the side effects on top of it. So yes Red was a good friend but not friend enough although he was probably his best friend. They lived in luxury and they did not want to leave . Red West and Sonny got jobs on the side while working for Elvis not so much to suppliment their income although they will have you believe that but in addition and they got those jobs because of Elvis...in his films to begin with and other films later. Jerry Schilling got jobs because of Elvis . They went to Hollywood with him and met his contacts. He could have left them at home or out of sight but didn't. If he met some film star....he had them meet that same star. When he met the president.....he made Nixon call Jerry and Sonny in too. Both of these and others like Joe said that no other star would do that where their friend lived his life without them having to do anything apart from just be there. I think in the 80's and 90's it seemed fashionable to slag Elvis off. Every Tom Dick and Harry wrote some trashy book and that includes Priscilla. But the more they speak the more many people are realising the flaws in their stories . Yes Elvis was on prescription drugs but these people did nothing whatsover to help him find the root cause and solution. In fact they added to his situation and seemed to enjoy doing it. I believe Red was a good friend but really....it was Vernon who fired them (Red and Sonny had been accused of roughing up fans as well) But if Red cared truly he would have persisted in being there for Elvis not turned the knife when he was down. Priscilla did the same too and now is acting otherwise.

My head hurts after reading that......please try to make some sense next time you post.

https://www.practicalpainmanagement.com/pain/other/brain-injury/elvis-presley-head-trauma-autoimmunity-pain-early-death


Medical records examination.

And another off-topic post.....what does this have to do with the book the West cousins & Hebler "wrote" (but Dunleavy sensationalized the book to make it more "buyable", if that makes sense).

I am making sense but you seem only to want one side and that is Red;s side and not off topic either. Its pertaining to the discussion as it shows what Elvis might be suffering from. The physical suffering was the cause of the medication. The narrative here is one sided from my point of view . Anything to diss Elvis is accepted as gospel just because Red wrote it and nobody knows Elvis side. Why does every man and his dog feel that Elvis owed them all the trappings of his wealth and more beside just because they lived in his orbit . John Lennon didn't leave his first son anything at first and at one point MIck Jaggers brother was on the income support as it was then. This is to illustrate the point that Elvis did provide for his family ,his extended family, his friends (as told by them)....money,expenses, houses, cars,flights etc and the more he gave the more they expected . Red West was right to be concerned and even angry but he should have balanced it with some loyalty . I read here someone saying Red was willing to take a bullet for Elvis . Ok...be real here...it was unlikely to happen unless Red was pinned to Elvis' chest on the stage and he never was. Anybody aiming at Elvis would need a direct hit and its only after that Red would need to move from some distance away. And the FBI was there too. It was Elvis himself who took the risk. He refused to be intimidated and let the Sweet Inspiations go

Was The Sweet Inspirations absent for the show(s) following the death threat in August 1970?