ELVIS’ “MEMPHIS MAFIA”
by eddie on Oct.12, 2009, under E
“The Memphis Mafia“ was the nickname for a group of relatives, friends and associates whose main purpose was to keep Elvis occupied. Several filled actual working positions in the “King’s” life. Some of the jobs included: bodyguard, tour managing, scheduling and costume maintenance. The members were paid a modest base salary, but received extravagant perks such as , cars, houses and bonuses. Over the years the personnel in The Memphis Mafia changed somewhat, but there was always the core members who spent a great deal of time with Elvis.
The original members, starting in 1954, were Junior and Gene Smith…Gladys Presley’s nephews. They, along with Elvis’ high school buddy Red West and later Billy Smith (youngest cousin), accompanied Presley everywhere. Later, after Elvis’ time in the Army, came George Klein (high school friend – became a popular disc jockey in Memphis), Joe Esposito (tour manager & right-hand man) Marty Lacker (shared duties with Esposito), Sonny West (bodyguard), Charlie Hodge (sang harmony and played guitar on tour), Lamar Fike (misc. responsibilities). The next wave added Elvis’ step brothers Rick, Billy and David Stanley (varying tour jobs), Jerry Schilling (now Daughter Lisa Marie’s manager), Larry Geller (hairdresser), Sam Thompson (girlfriend Linda Thompson’s brother – security force),Dave Hebler and Dick Grob (additional security) and assorted other add-on members.
The term “Memphis Mafia” came from a member of the press in 1960. After seeing Elvis and his crew emerge from limos, dressed in black mohair suits and sporting sunglasses, a fan was heard to ask, “Who are they, The Mafia?” The reporter used a slightly altered rendition of the term for his story.
My career as an Elvis Tribute Artist has put me in the company of many past members of The Memphis Mafia. A good many items from my collection of Elvis-owned items came directly from them. A list of those articles includes: sets of curtains from Elvis’ Circle G Ranch in Mississippi and Hillcrest home in Beverly Hills. Also curtains from Elvis’ bedroom in his Father, Vernon’s home in Memphis, Some of The King’s personal stationery, a dress owned and worn by Priscilla Presley, a flight plan and registration for Elvis’ private jet “The Lisa Marie”, large sections of fence from his ranch and Graceland, silver and crystal dining items and so much more.
Surviving members of The Memphis Mafia show up at Elvis Conventions at home, in the USA, and abroad. They have authored many books that give us a glimpse of life on the road and behind the music gates of Graceland with one of the most legendary performers of the Twentieth Century.