The Truth About Elvis Presley's Strictness: Debunking the Myths

Elvis Presley, one of the most iconic figures in music history, is often remembered for his flamboyant personality, immense talent, and luxurious lifestyle. However, the popular notion that Elvis was a strict person is often exaggerated or even outright false. This article aims to provide a more nuanced view of Elvis's character, debunking some of the myths surrounding his strict behavior.

Elvis: Kind, Loving, and Giving

Contrary to the popular belief, Elvis was a kind, loving, and giving person. He was well-known for his philanthropy and his desire to make people happy. For instance, his daughter, Lisa Marie, often speaks fondly of his love and support. Elvis was deeply devoted to his family, especially his daughter, and he made a significant effort to be present in her life, even when his career kept him on the road.

Books and Biopics: A Mix of Truth and Fabrication

Over the years, numerous books and biopics have been written and produced about Elvis's life. Some of these, particularly the recent biopic Priscilla, have faced criticism for fabricating certain aspects of his life. According to Lisa Marie, the movie significantly deviates from the truth as portrayed in books like Elvis Me by Priscilla Presley. Lisa Marie was against the creation of the movie, as she feared it would misrepresent her father. She even went so far as to express her concerns to Francis Ford Coppola, the director, over the way Elvis was being portrayed.

It is important to note that much of the content in these books and films is based on accounts from self-interested parties, such as Priscilla Presley, who had a financial motive to portray Elvis in a certain light. This, coupled with the fact that many of those alive who knew Elvis well have passed away, makes it challenging to discern the truth with certainty.

Elvis as a Perfectionist, Not a Strict Figure

While there might have been instances when Elvis was strict, particularly during rehearsals for performances, these instances were few and far between. As a perfectionist, Elvis insisted on meticulous preparation, but this does not equate to him being a strict person overall. Many videos exist showcasing Elvis's humorous side, where he often joked and had a good time with his backup singers and band. This playful nature frequently manifested in his performances, adding a touch of fun to his music.

Furthermore, the claim that Elvis was strict with his family, specifically his daughter Lisa Marie, should be scrutinized. Many of the stories about Elvis's controlling nature come from sources who, like Priscilla Presley, had their own motivations and biases. For instance, Priscilla claims that Elvis controlled every aspect of her life and demanded she wear specific attire. However, it is important to consider that she later took on her maiden name, Presley, and divorced Elvis, only to go on to have many high-profile relationships, including with Frank Sinatra, before finally settling down with Frank Garabaldi.

Was Elvis Controlling?

While it is possible that Elvis had some suggestions for Lisa Marie's style or activities, these should be viewed within the context of a supportive and loving relationship. Many husbands, including those from today, offer advice and suggestions to their wives. Is this control, or is it simply the natural role of a husband in a partnership? These nuances are often lost in the retelling and sensationalization of Elvis's life stories.

Elvis Presley was not a perfect person. He struggled with personal demons and had his flaws, just as everyone else does. However, the image of him as a strict and overbearing man is largely a misinterpretation or exaggeration of reality. There is no denying the influence and impact Elvis had on the world, and it is crucial to understand him in the context of his genuine character.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Elvis Presley was a perfectionist and took his performances seriously, he was not a strict person in the sense that many have led us to believe. His love for his family, particularly his daughter Lisa Marie, was genuine. Moreover, the stories we hear about Elvis's strict behavior often come from those with their own biases and agendas. It is important to approach these stories with a critical eye and to seek out multiple sources of information to gain a more balanced and accurate understanding of Elvis Presley's life and character.