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Colonel Parker: The Genius Behind Elvis's Fame

8/13/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Colonel Tom Parker, originally Andreas Cornelis van Kuijk, was the mastermind behind Elvis Presley’s rise to fame from 1955 until 1977. While often labeled a ruthless manipulator, Peter Guralnick's new book reveals a more complex portrait, showcasing Parker's innovative marketing tactics that turned Elvis into a global sensation, despite decisions that later haunted his career.

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Story summary

Colonel Tom Parker, originally Andreas Cornelis van Kuijk, was the mastermind behind Elvis Presley’s rise to fame from 1955 until 1977. While often labeled a ruthless manipulator, Peter Guralnick's new book reveals a more complex portrait, showcasing Parker's innovative marketing tactics that turned Elvis into a global sensation, despite decisions that later haunted his career.