George Klein was Elvis’ life-long friend and member of the Memphis Mafia. As a student at Humes High School in Memphis TN, it was there that he met Elvis in 1948. George says: "He was a good but not a great friend. He said I was nice to him." After High School, George went into radio broadcasting at WHBQ and Elvis started his music career. As a result, their careers converged and they built a fantastic and loyal friendship that lasted till the day Elvis died in 1977. George continues Elvis’ legacy by keeping his music alive on the airwaves. He continues to work in radio, hosting the George Klein's Original Elvis Hour, a program of Elvis tunes and anecdotes.
Sonny West was Elvis’ close friend and security official of 16½ years (1960 - 1976) and is one of the last remaining members of the Memphis Mafia. As a trusted confidant to The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Sonny often speaks candidly about his relationship with Elvis. Sonny was introduced to Elvis in 1958 by his cousin Red West at a party Elvis held at the Memphis skating rink, Rainbow Rollerdome. Elvis served as best man, and Priscilla as maid of honor, at Sonny and Judy Morgan's wedding on December 28, 1971 in Memphis, TN. He played small roles in a number of Elvis films, including "Flaming Star" and "Stay Away, Joe."
With his new-found wealth, Elvis bought suits from clothing retailer Lansky's on the ground floor of The Peabody. Bernard J Lansky became his personal tailor, fitting him with his first – and his last – suit, earning him the nickname “Clothier To The King”.
Elvis trained from 1970 - 1974 under Master Kang Rhee in Memphis, TN. He said Master Rhee had a good reputation and had come highly recommended from Ed Parker, his former instructor in California. During the four year period under Master Rhee, Elvis, like all other students, selected an animal title by which to be addressed in the training area. Avoiding political issues with “Mr Panther”, Elvis chose “Mr Tiger”. Elvis was awarded 7th degree black belt in 1973.
Guy Harris, Elvis' long-term childhood friend re-lives memories of their antics as young boys, especially playing in the creek. Guy says “Elvis sometimes walked up to one of the churches and stood outside to listen to their singing. He liked their music. It was the influence of blues and gospel that separated Elvis as a singer”.
Tupelo Hardware - founded in 1926 by George H Booth. Forrest L Bobo an employee of 20 years, served Elvis and his Mama when they entered the store to buy Elvis a bicycle for his birthday. He saw a rifle he liked but Gladys said no, to console an upset 10 year old, Forrest showed Elvis a guitar which he had by the counter, on which Elvis strummed for a while. After some time Elvis said to his Mama that he would like the guitar...
Louise Smith - widow of Elvis’ cousin, Gene Smith, met Elvis when he made a credit application at the clothing store where she worked. She later married Gene and they were happily married for 43 years.