(Credits: Far Out / Alamy)
Elvis Presley was mostly supportive of rising talent. For all his status and influence, he often championed new musicians coming through. But as history shows, his admiration could sour quickly—his support just as easily turning into jealousy or resentment.
“Elvis could spot talent instantly. In Las Vegas, we regularly took in lounge acts featuring various up-and-coming artists,” Priscilla Presley recalled of her ex-husband. She added, “If Elvis liked the show, he patronised the club, encouraging the entertainers to pursue their careers, infusing them with confidence and enthusiasm.” But while Presley had that supportive streak, it often went the other way.
In particular, many of Presley’s musical enemies were once friends or people who admired him. It was often a case of a friendship turning sour or perhaps even jealousy causing problems, as the singer would turn on other artists.
Sometimes the feeling was mutual, though, as Presley’s hatred was merely him matching the energy delivered by someone else. But in other instances, criticism from The King was soul-crushing and marked the end of a lifetime of admiration. Either way, the singer’s hatred was often cruel, cold and usually backstabbing.
Five artists Elvis Presley took issue with:
Related Topics
Subscribe To The Far Out Newsletter