Was Elvis Presley’s Manager the Colonel a Villain? It’s Complicated.

The article explores the complex legacy of Colonel Tom Parker, Elvis Presley's longtime manager. Contrary to the commonly held view of Parker as a villainous figure, music historian Peter Guralnick's new book, which draws on documents left behind by Parker, presents a more nuanced perspective. The article highlights that while Parker's business practices were often questionable, he was instrumental in propelling Presley to global stardom. Guralnick's research suggests that Parker's motivations were more complicated than pure greed, and that he genuinely cared for Presley, even if his methods were sometimes unethical. The article acknowledges the ongoing debate surrounding Parker's role and the extent to which he exploited Presley. However, it suggests that the historical narrative may be more complex than the traditional villain-hero dichotomy, and that Guralnick's work offers a more balanced and thoughtful examination of this influential figure in the music industry.