Elvis Presley’s Surprisingly Low-Corridors Army Career: The Role of Col. Tom Parker
Elvis Presley’s Surprisingly Low-Corridors Army Career: The Role of Col. Tom Parker
Elvis Presley's Army career, often viewed through the lens of a brief, unremarkable stint, is actually a critical period that reflects the foresight and shrewd business acumen of Col. Tom Parker. Let's delve deeper into the reasons behind this surprisingly mundane chapter in the legendary singer's life.
The Induction of Elvis Presley
When Elvis Presley was drafted into the United States Army on March 24, 1958, he was not merely a reluctant draftee but a carefully managed asset. Col. Tom Parker, Elvis's manager, innovatively orchestrated the terms of his induction to ensure that Presley's promotion and public image were preserved during his military service.
Diversion from Entertainment Division
One of the primary strategic decisions made by Col. Parker was to ensure that Elvis would not join the Army's Entertainment division. Parker's rationale was twofold: firstly, as a Dutch national who was hiding in the United States, Parker could not follow Elvis globally and promote him effectively without making him perform for free. Secondly, this diversion allowed Elvis to maintain his authenticity and avoid appearing like a glorified celebrity soldier, which was Parker's goal for Elvis's return after his service.
Preserving Elvis's Image
Col. Parker had a deeper purpose behind this strategic move: he aimed to shape Elvis's public image as the "Regular Army." Parker wanted Elvis to return from his service as a clean-cut, wholesome individual, a far cry from the rebellious and somewhat scandalous persona of the early 1950s. This image management was critical for the long-term sustainability of Elvis's career. By focusing on a "Regular Army" image, Parker ensured that Elvis's return to civilian life would be met with adoration and respect instead of skepticism or scandal.
Early Singles and Movie Career
While in the Army, Elvis would have been able to record singles and lay the groundwork for a robust movie career upon his discharge. This strategic timing allowed Elvis to complete the album King Creole before his induction, setting the stage for his eventual return to the music industry with a strong musical foundation and a refreshed public image.
Concerns of Col. Parker
Col. Parker had two primary fears regarding Elvis's Army career: one, that someone would gain too much influence over Elvis and potentially disrupt his management position, and two, that Elvis might make a move that would damage his image, such as having a child or getting married at an inappropriate age. These fears were rooted in the notorious cases of Jerry Lee Lewis and Chuck Berry, who had suffered significant setbacks in their careers due to scandal.
Case Study of Jerry Lee Lewis
In 1957, Jerry Lee Lewis married his 13-year-old cousin, which led to a drastic decline in his career. Lewis went from earning thousands of dollars a night to performing in honky-tonk bars, facing industry-wide rejection and even lost tours. Jerry Lee's case initially set a cautionary tale for Col. Parker, prompting him to be wary of any similar situations that might befall Elvis.
Case Study of Chuck Berry
Similarly, in 1959, Chuck Berry's career took a nosedive after being arrested for transporting a 14-year-old girl across state lines for what were perceived as "immoral purposes." Berry spent 20 months in prison, and his career never fully recovered. These events underscored the importance of managing Elvis's personal life with care and attention.
Conclusion
Elvis Presley's Army career was not an accident but a calculated move designed to protect his public image and career. Col. Tom Parker's strategic management ensured that Elvis would emerge from his service as a regular soldier, but one who retained his star power and appeal. This period was crucial in shaping Elvis's legacy and ensuring his continued success in the music and entertainment industry.
For more insights into the life and times of Elvis Presley, and the crucial role of Col. Tom Parker, explore additional resources and references that highlight his significant contributions to the music industry and Elvis's career.