ELVIS up close and personal with sonny west

sonny west recalls his life and times with Elvis Presley

[@hankstokes33]

I drive for Uber in Gallatin, Tennessee. I drive all over Gallatin, Hendersonville, Nashville, etc.. A couple years ago, I picked up a man, woman, and young boy at a restaurant in Gallatin, and took them to some really nice apartments in Hendersonville. Turned out, it was Sonny's daughter, and her hubby and son. Extremely nice people. On the way, she told me lots of stories about Sonny, Red, and even a few things about Elvis. One of my most memorable rides.

[@jamesgreen76]

I'm the husband and I remember you. I remember she commented afterwards how nice you were and that she enjoyed the ride. Sadly, I lost her and her mother last year. I'm glad she was able to share some stories with you.

[@karensparks2509]

I'm so very sorry for your losses. My condolences. 🙏

[@wisdomseeker3362]

@@jamesgreen76 Oh my goodness James , I am surely sorry to hear of your loss . Your wife sounds like a beautiful and caring woman that loved life . Losing her mother I know was hard on your heart.❤

[@BrendaBooher-hw4mf]

Nice memories

[@BrendaBooher-hw4mf]

@@jamesgreen76 so sorry for the loss of your wife and her Mother.

[@user-wk1up2tb4p]

I MET SONNY AND HIS WIFE IN MEMPHIS. I HUNG OUT WITH HIM FOR 4 NIGHTS DURING ELVIS WEEK. HE WAS VERY VERY KIND TO ME. HE GAVE ME HIS EMAIL. I COULD SEE HE TRULY, AND DEEPLY LOVED ELVIS. HE WAS THE BEST ELVIS STORY TELLER, VERY ARTICULATE. I WAS VERY SAD WHEN HE PASSED. I SAID TO HIM, SONNY "YOU AND ELVIS HAD A LOT OF GREAT TIMES DIDNT YOU?, AND HE SAID YES WE DID." HE TOLD ME, THAT ELVIS WAS THE MOST KIND MAN IN THE WORLD".

[@jimmyjames2903]

How can you not love these old Elvis

[@paulgreen1050]

What a story teller, pure gold 😂😢❤

[@chrisfleming5109]

I think we all know that Elvis was one very special human being.

[@ChrisR_68]

He was indeed for sure !!

[@leeshuleryou4167]

Great

[@cathycline2290]

My only regret is that I never got to see or meet him in person. He was truly the best & most handsome man that God ever made......❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@thomasmadden1658]

Wondering keelan, Simon Peter, owen mac, sing the songs & fat domino songs all about words in the music

[@gracieg7601]

I know sonny and Red loved Elvis. They would have put their own body in front of Elvis. I have to tell you Elvis was doing shows in Vegas. So these drunk Guys with one woman was there. The guys decided to jump on the stage to go after Elvis. 4 of them. Elvis handled 2 of them with karate and the body guards got the other two. I thought it was cool that Elvis threw one of them off the stage and handled the other one and the body guards Red and Sonny got the other two. It took about 20 minutes to calm Elvis down to finish the show. Elvis had death threats in Las Vegas. They won’t tell it cause they didn’t want it to happen at every show.

[@brianphilips6239]

My father was a security officer in Dallas when Elvis was performing , his guitar player was sick and my father said he auditioned right outside the gig and performed for Elvis when Elvis found out my dad could play and sing his songs , he wanted to here my dad sing ... Elvis told him he loved his singing and gave him two free tickets to the next show ... he never got to go to the show cause my grandfather was his Sargent and grandpa put him at a different gig and never got to use the tickets I’m sure they would be worth something today but the human side of Elvis was wonderful I’m sure ...

[@shirleyvandewalker5445]

No 0

[@livewithnick]

@Art the Angel of JESUS too late! He sold them for $100 ea.

[@chestachan3588]

o

[@ritasarno1355]

Such a nice story thank you

[@michaelrodgers7109]

Sure thing I'd go to the Show X even if is was fired x

[@deannamaude2303]

My love for Elvis will never die no matter what people say

[@HighSpeedNoDrag]

Amen.

[@kbanghart]

Yes everyone is saying that you don't like Elvis anymore

[@jamesgreen76]

I'm very proud to have Sonny as my father-in-law. Really good man, loved every time he shared any story. I love and miss the whole family, all in Heaven now.

[@LoanShoppingExpert]

It's a shame that Sonny, Red and Dave's efforts to help Elvis (by writing "Elvis: What Happened?") didn't provide the solution they hoped it would to Elvis's self-destructive behavior. So much healing needed to occur among these four men. I really think the book--about which Elvis was acutely aware shortly before his death--partially contributed to his death. It must've been devastating to think men you spent years with would so cruelly publish secrets about you without your permission.

[@anital5020]

I love the stories Sonny has shared. I am sure he, Red and Dave wished they could have patched everything up with Elvis but it was not to be. I never read that book and I imagine they may have regretted having done the book. Poor Elvis I do believe had too much disappointment with his movie career. If he could have had good scripts and become an actor that was taken seriously it would have made a difference. Then not being able to tour around the world was another disappointment. He needed a challenge, a goal to work toward.

[@Gigi1111Layna]

@@LoanShoppingExpert Their efforts were not to "help" Elvis. We all know the sneaky Truths of that. And Red's phone recording of Elvis is a betrayal beyond. Maybe they are all together in Heaven now, as I'm sure Elvis would've forgiven...too many ppl watched and did nothing for too long.

[@LoanShoppingExpert]

@@Gigi1111Layna I think Elvis's inner circle did try to intervene, but they were all ham-handed about it. They didn't know how or what to do that was effective. Elvis didn't consider himself "addicted" and thought he knew better than his doctors.

[@Gigi1111Layna]

@@LoanShoppingExpert Sorry for the late reply. I only just received the comment, yes I guess you're right..but I still believe they could have tried harder..but everyone kinda saw the end of big tours and didn't try hard enough. Just seems as though they all took what they could and Elvis felt that and maybe became a bit stubborn from being hurt how things were falling apart. I guess it is what it is.. thank you for your comment❣ 🙏 😊 🤍🤍🤍

[@wewe5489]

I've never heard of anyone that gave more away than Elvis. He was a special person.

[@abc-wv4in]

Yes, he was a very, very generous, caring person.

[@Hugeroost]

@audi presley i'm not seeing a problem w that Audi, long as he didn't sleep w his sister it's all good

[@davidh1249]

Colonel Tom Parker wholeheartedly agrees....

[@janinefarris7565]

Elvis did he was like a tongue-in-cheek man right on the spot he was reacting and from his heart but I have to say I was very impressed with with Paul Newman's efforts in his philanthropic efforts read about it on KZbin about the hole in the wall which help cancer patients and also I was very impressed with Robert Redford's effort to help the film community on his own property read about that there are many many more stars however I just wanted to mentioned what comes to mind these are noble men that are in my heart of course aside from their good looks they had a heart of gold and I just love all the stories a people that contribute

[@haggiefatigue2971]

Hugeroost, I have a problem with YOU. Your comment is very prejudicial and ignorant. Grow up.

[@jennifermitchell3070]

Boy he was really good hearted to people!!! What a beautiful person inside and out!!!!

[@star4evr9]

I could listen to Sonny telling stories about Elvis forever. He is wonderful. Thank you so much for this wonderful video. ❤❤❤

[@Harpplayer504]

I grew up watching anything televised .... Elvis was candy to the eyes... The Coal black hair and chisled face.. Emitted an emotional embrace.. The curled lip and moving hip.. Not a show did I want to skip.. I feel the same today as I always did.. That God couldn't keep this one hid!

[@lilliangilbert4252]

Happyplayer: nice poem! 😊

[@maureenflaherty9058]

Fame and fortune can and often is more of a burden than a blessing. However, Elvis was a blessing to all of us. No one is perfect , but this man was a unique individual and there will never be another Elvis.

[@carmenleasure7504]

Maureen Flaherty; Wonderful comment! Just want to say, that "ELVIS" (IS) ALIVE!!! HE "DID" FAKE HIS DEATH!!! for many reasons. He HAD to MAKE it so "CONVINCING LY REAL" to SAVE his LIFE AND HIS FAMILYS LIFE!!! HE "EVIDENTLY SUCCESS- FULLY" DID JUST THAT!!! "LOOK & SEE" how many PEOPLE "STILL BELIEVE" THAT (ELVIS IS DEAD) 'til today! NO!!! He IS ALIVE!!! THANK OUR LORD! AMEN!

[@janinefarris4539]

It was in the 60's where he sang it was black and white television I believe it was Frank Sinatra show he was singing Fame and Fortune your comment made me think about that how wonderful that sound was Fame and Fortune was one of the Ballard said I really thought was one of the great songs and he exuded this Charisma they're also check it out I'm sure you already have thank you for your comment

[@blancamiranda6661]

Beautifully said🌹🌏🌎🌍

[@lizonepairofhandscarrollro4788]

"You gave me a mountain"

[@tonyp011]

Elvis gave things to people because it was his way of thanking them, it made him happy because he was giving to people that he never had when he was a child,

[@sandramiller8701]

There will never be another Elvis Presley.

[@debraparker7626]

you can tell how much he truly loved Elvis.

[@willfade7994]

I love this! I loved hearing so many great stories. Sonny reminds me of my father the way he told stories. My father was a big fan of Elvis and actually met him in Las Vegas. My Dad worked at a hotel where Elvis played a show. After the show was over, Elvis bought the entire hotel staff pizzas and beer and actually sat and spoke with my father for a bit... That was one of my Dad's favorite stories to tell. He said Elvis was very down to earth, kind, generous, funny and he cared a lot for people. My father actually resembled Elvis in many ways and they both grew up country. I was born and raised a California girl from the San Fernando Valley, though my parents meeting was a result of my Dad moving from Kentucky to Las Vegas where he met Elvis. My parents were married 6 months before Elvis died. My childhood memories of my Dad often included music and videos of Elvis's work. I remember watching a VHS my Dad had of Elvis's concert in Hawaii in our little apartment in Los Angeles so many years ago now. My Dad would always say "there will never be another Elvis Presley." I lost my Dad to cancer 11 years ago and will sometimes watch films or documentaries on Elvis or listen to his music when I'm missing my Dad, especially around the anniversary of my Dad's death on May 30th. That's what brought me to this video. It's crazy that Elvis died at 42 years young nearly 42 years ago. Life is strange. Death is stranger. Elvis lives on in the hearts of so many people. He even touched the lives of people like me who were born after his death. Thank you so much for sharing this little trip down memory lane. RIP Sonny. I hope he and Elvis are reunited in Heaven. Maybe my father is there with them too. 🌹

[@deborahminton9548]

@wilfade 79 ... thanks for ur post & for sharing ur memories & ur dad's stories ... very heartwarming 💜 ... hearing memories like yours make us all love our Elvis that much more !! 💜⚡💜 ... I am sure ur sweet dad is now in the presence & amazing company of Elvis, one of our world's finest, classiest, & most talented of angels !! 💜😇💜 TCB & TLC 💜💜💜💜💜💜⚡👑⚡💜💜💜💜💜💜

[@Hugeroost]

@Mark Cianfarani Mark, 55, what's wrong man, i'm 57 myself

[@willfade7994]

Mark Cianfarani Thank you so much for taking the time to write all of that to me, a stranger... I don't always check my inbox or notifications on here, so I apologize for my delayed response. Do you believe in Jesus? I do and I believe he's right there with you. It's so hard to trust in mere mortal human beings who are born fallen. It sounds like you've been through Hell. I'm so sorry. I feel your pain. I suffer from chronic illness myself and recall very well spending 13 days in ICU and so many people I'd devoted my time, money and energy into didn't even bother to call, text or come see me. Sometimes being close to death is the wake up call we need to see the truth. Trust in God. I'll always love Elvis because my father loved him so much. He even resembled him quite a bit with the same dark hair and hairline! He also had deep blue eyes. He was handsome up to his death at just 64 from cancer. I don't know you or your fiancé, but I believe in Heaven and reuniting with those we love on the other side.... Be strong, read the Bible (I like the KJV or NIV versions) and don't give up the fight. God bless you. 🌹🌹🌹

[@willfade7994]

Deborah Minton Thank you so much for saying that! I always listen to Elvis when I'm really missing my Dad and on those anniversaries: his birthday, the day he died, etc. The beauty of music is that it's sort of timeless in a sense. We can always return to those happy moments sealed with a song, like a kiss from the past. God bless you. ♥️

[@luvjesuslee2033]

@Mark Cianfarani May Jesus wrap his healing arms around you. Seems the ones who give so much are left lonely, unvisited, uncalled. Maybe its why we can relate to Elvis so well.. He was compassionate, loved with his whole heart, sensitive to others, giving, loved Jesus, and people.. It's unfortunate Elvis never knew a Love as Strong as his Mothers and a piece of Elvis died with Gladys. May Elvis, Gladys, Elvis twin, Vernon, Sonny, and all those gone be resting in eternal Peace.

[@kristarobinette3586]

Love this. You did an amazing job telling your story. I loved this ❤️

[@sandramiller8701]

Elvis had it all in spades called southern charm. he was something else.

[@RADIUMGLASS]

I travel every week and southerners are always the most friendly. You would be happy to have them as a relative or neighbor.

[@gigilove564]

@@island661 I'm from the south and that is so not true. Anyone can be fake. That doesn't mean all southerners are. That's really the most ignorant thing I've ever heard.

[@gigilove564]

@@island661 So I guess you've met ALL southern people? Sorry you experienced the backwards southerners, bc they are definitely out there...but to say that ALL southerners are fake and not accepting is what is ignorant. If I were to go to NY I'm sure several people would make fun of me and my accent but I dont believe ALL of them would.

[@island661]

@@gigilove564 99% of New Yorkers would.

[@gigilove564]

@j m Why do you think that?

[@wernerhaase2632]

Elvis is the Best😁

[@dianekiley4394]

Dèareĺvisyouarevèyçùtedìañekileyfrom

[@raymondmerrick209]

Tube

[@mrs.columbo1803]

Elvis is truly one of a kind . Nothing ever never will compare ! This man needs a glass of water

[@christined2495]

When Elvis performed at Madison Square Garden in the 70s my husband was a NY police officer, who was one of the officers there to guard Backstage, after the show, Elvis went up to each police officer and thanked them for their service

[@kendrinkwater6049]

Elvis Presley was truly a Gift from God. I hope all the Memphis Mafia that have Passed are Together. When u think of Elvis you can't help but Cry He was so Special

[@jv-ep2tc]

ken, if you haven't visited Memphis you must if you can. you will literally feel the gift from God aspect of his being in your enounters with people and visits to the sites of his life. I was literally knocked to the ground when I entered sun studio. i had a hard time recovering from that during the rest of the trip. Before I could get on the Graceland shuttle, I had to find a bench on which to compose myself as the truth of what I was about to see began to sink it, it literally took my breath away.

[@gracieg7601]

Can you imagine how happy Gladys was to see Elvis ?

[@saralancaster5991]

I pray Elvis fulfilled the plan God had for him. There’s no way as talented as Elvis was that he wasn’t God sent. He moved people in a way no one can explain then or even now. God sent 🙏❤️

[@brandonpowe4416]

@@jv-ep2tc I need to head up there, you sure had an experience very emotional story I bet.

[@keetonplace]

@@jv-ep2tc That's sort of what happened to me upon my first midnight arrival at the gates. It was 1978. I had just seen him in Vegas the Dec. before. There was a curfew, so not many people around. I sat on a bench across from Graceland, with my husband and daughter near by, and never quite experienced anything like that night. He was there with me. His presence filled the air. I sat there soaking it up for quite a while. Then went up, after a 7 hour wait in line next day to the grave and lost it up there. Went over in a corner by myself. I have been going ever since.

[@ronniebishop2496]

I grew up with TV in 1950 and Elvis in 54, when I was four years old and then the Beatles came along 10 years later. It was the foundation of the music revolution and TV revolution along with amplification. Bob Wills said amps created his stardom because people could hear him live and hear all his band. But nobody can touch Elvis, he was a phenomenon. If some great artist like Picasso said describe the type of star you’d like and I’ll paint you a masterpiece, I’d say forget that just give me Elvis,!

[@lilliangilbert4252]

ELVIS WAS OUR AMERICA PRIDE AND JOY!! 👑⚡⭐🇺🇲

[@brendaphillips7148]

I will always love Elvis for his generosity and love of his fellow man. Elvis was a very special human being. R i p elvis💋💓💓💓

[@BillAnt]

I sense that Sonny's a good man with humility, integrity, and a big heart, keeping Elvis' memory alive in our hearts and minds.

[@sandramiller8701]

Elvis had a big heart

[@RioBow]

Sandra Miller And thats why he was taken advantage of.

[@weshunter_musicman]

Yes he did and Mississippi did bad things to his family. that's why he never called "Tupelo" his "hometown". Mississippi is the reason he worked himself to death and to an early grave.

[@loulademo8740]

Yes Elvis had a big Heart and more than that here was the Best in the world no one can be like him

[@GeorgiaOverdrive]

Quite literally actually. He had an enlarged heart

[@didibolter9362]

@@RioBow EXACTLY!!!!

[@101090serg]

That was awesome. Can only imagine what it must have been like to be part of that life. RIP Sonny and thank you.

[@ronw9901]

Dont trust anything red and sonny west say. They betrayed elvis, and Lisa Marie hated them along with Marty lacker

[@michellebergeron5629]

When Elvis was in Riverside Hospital in Newport News Va my father worked maintenance and was called to Elvis room because it was too hot for him so my father fixed his air conditioner. Elvis handed my father a $100 and my dad asked him to sign it. We still have that $100 dollar bill. Also Elvis bought several wheelchairs for the odds unit and they were signed by him. Almost all of them disappeared but RRMC still has two locked away safe. Elvis was admitted to RRMC after his Hampton coliseum concert for exhaustion I believe it was 76 maybe 77. I know he died shortly after that

[@soulman7429]

Michelle Bergeron Michelle Bergeron Awesome! $100 back then in '77 would have been equivalent to $400 or $500 today. Along with the other info you shared about his buying wheelchairs for others. Elvis's thoughtfulness and generosity often very underplayed. Truly nice man.

[@iceswallowcman2562]

Michelle Bergeron that’s awesome do you have pictures would love to see that sounds awesome

[@martin77722]

hello to you hope you well does the hospital still have the wheelchairs yours paul my email is [e-mail]

[@kellynorman7452]

prove it

[@fh346]

Michelle Bergeron THANK YOU for sharing such a remarkable Story!!! It's things like that that we don't get to read enough about. That really must have been an experience for your father!! Again, Thanks, Great Share!!

[@thomasenix6025]

Elvis Presley done a lot of good things while he was here on this earth he gave and gave of himself and his wealth until he couldn't give no more so may he and his family who have passed on and friends rest in peace

[@vonlmo9774]

Elvis CHANGED a large portion of humanity's rock & roll sound! HE sure affected me...I went to CONEY Island with my father and made him buy me fake sideburns. I was about 7 YRS old. That's how Elvis got to my brain not to mention his stage antics..

[@paulwelch3066]

Sonny hopefully you and Elvis are together again in Heaven along with all the other guys who have passed away

[@hayleysafko2221]

Paul Welch 12

[@marcelleronquille416]

doubt it ..

[@michaelivey1087]

@@marcelleronquille416 👜🖕

[@banjominer9682]

Sad that the bible clearly says that they will not recognize each other..

[@dragonfly9143]

@@banjominer9682 Can you explain that?

[@markw6662]

Elvis was the king, no one will ever take his place, he touched so many people in different ways and changed their lives forever, I’m 54 years old, he changed my life forever in so many ways. That is the most respect you can ever give to an artist.

[@Lauren-be3qv]

Sonny was a great story teller! You have such a clear vision of his story as he's talking. Rest in peace Sonny, rest in peace Elvis and to the rest of the guys. The world will never be the same without you Elvis. You'll be missed forever! 🙏💗💗💜💗💗💜

[@raymanbert3996]

Great video and.grear human stories. .Sonny brought Elvis back to life for sure. RIP Sonny!!

[@blancamiranda778]

Yea..can't get enough of their story telling 🎸🎶🎙

[@Kimberly_11]

Sunny passed also... NOOOOOO 💔😭.. he's got these hanging out the Elvis though ❤️

[@blinderII]

When did Sonny pass away?

[@paulsutherland1475]

Schilling is still alive. Last of The Memphis Mafia

[@dianehayse6254]

Handsome Elvis,had a heart after God. He loved others and wanted yo help them. He had a great sense of humor.

[@paboiphanakomen3929]

Thank you sir

[@bubbles3638]

yep but he had a potty mouth also. I think show biz turned him that way.

[@texasgirl6000]

@@bubbles3638, only when men were around....btw most men do talk that way when alone with the guys. Also alot of women today have the worse potty mouths of them all.

[@cookeeee1962]

It's so sad , us all growing old and dying but better you die loved and loving. Elvis was surely loved. His confidantes give testimony to his loving. Pretty good Elvis and Co. !!

[@star4evr9]

Sonny is so funny here. I love his story telling.

[@Nimrodbodeinejr]

I used to have and watch Elvis in Jail house rock on VHS when I was a kid lol I'm 29 now but I am a millennial but I even in the 90s still loved the King ! He was the man we all wanted to be and the man women wanted to be with 💯

[@lilliangilbert4252]

Nimrodbodeninejt: I have one ELVIS IN A MOTOR CYCLE IN THE 50's. I treasure that.❤❤❤

[@suekaiser4163]

So refreshing to see young people interested in this incredible man!

[@pennurblack2781]

❤Thank you for your personal love stories of Elvis. I'm so glad I was allowed to enjoy them. ❤

[@johnsteelman1410]

Hello, I was at the Hilton Hotel in Las Vegas when Elvis was playing there. At the time we were working in California , we left Cali. going home to Charleston , South Carolina....went thru Las Vegas and asked someone of a good show to go to in Vegas...they said go to the Hilton Hotel , Elvis was playing there....we went to the show, after the show we left Vegas ....could not find a Hotel Room...so we left there , had to sleep in my car ( this was way back in the 1970's ) on the highway...at least we got a chance to see Elvis in person.....John Steelman from North Carolina.

[@braunreinhold6020]

Elvis was the king, God bless you for standing by him Sir.

[@michelleevans4948]

Elvis was a beautiful man, inside and out. I’ll never fully figure out if his entourage were his friends or just out for all they could get ?? I believe some did genuinely love him. Before I saw this I had negative feelings about sonny and red , regarding the book they wrote. Real friends wouldn’t write such a book in order for someone to seek help for there drug use. They’d try and help through getting help professionally, but I mean try because the help has to come from within , you have to help yourself. But one thing I learned from this was the sincerity I see from sonny at the very end, it was 100 per cent genuine, and I see in his eyes his regret for his part in the writing of the book . RIP elvis, you had no peace while you were alive. X

[@christinahagglund8510]

So nice to here about this!! I love lissen to people and there life!

[@lynnalvaro1359]

Hearing about Elvis always makes me cry. I wish he could have understood how much we - his fans - loved him. He had something that transcended recordings, and movies, that actually, in fact went right into our hearts and souls. We felt he was literally a part of each of us. He was OURS. I don’t think he realized the power to induce love for him, from others that he had . It mystified him. It was a gift - or curse, from God. Everyone wanted to either posses him, or use him. I’m hoping he sees it, and understands it now. And, hopefully we’ll be with him again.

[@Anna-jy6tq]

He knew ck out bob joyce on youtube

[@rissamatti8216]

He knew. He said he wouldnt even change for his wife. He simply didnt care. He was talented and handsome and he decided to throw it away.

[@WatchDoggyDog]

❤️

[@WatchDoggyDog]

@@rissamatti8216 nah

[@texasgirl6000]

@@Anna-jy6tq, you're a naive ignorant lost sheep.

[@elvisfanmafia]

RIP Sonny you are good man and I hope your having fun again with Elvis,Red,Lamar,Joe and the rest of the boys.Thank you for sharing your wonderful stories.

[@evelynburley5584]

Has some great stories, he has a good humor . He reflects elvis and the boys had good time. loved it, thankyou.

[@RichardRamirez1st]

Elvis was loved !!! He had the best friends ever & as he was to them . What a beautiful time of their lives. ❤thank you for sharing we love you too ❤

[@RADIUMGLASS]

A good person usually has a kind face, Elvis had that face.

[@janinefarris4539]

I totally agree about the comment with the kind face

[@janinefarris4539]

Elvis have the ability to transport one into a romantic Realm

[@janinefarris4539]

And while I am still enthralled by his performances I would like to comment what I see in his fans is there kindness for him his family and his friends and this I also hold dear to my heart. I believe Elvis saw this in his fans and I believe he appreciated this and gave it back to us

[@russellmusictv4403]

Tell Ted Bundy that.

[@lilliangilbert4986]

He was the most generous and heartfeld man. Thats why we all love him. Besides his looks and beautiful voice, he is the most gourgeous man I've ever laid eyes on. I met him in 73, accidentally. I went to throw away some bottles of champagne, that we celebrated a friends wedding. I was 16 at the time, so i was not allowed in the casinos. I turned frim the dumster, and i her noise, music, so i turn and there was ELVIS with a towel around his neck, i froze and we almost crashed, but he stops and i stop. We saw each other and i just there while i guess it was the Memphis mafia! He got into a mercedez benz stretch limo blue. That was the day i fell in love! With OUR KING OF ROCK N ROLL!😉😁🙏

[@gussygatlin3093]

I love Elvis.. I pray he went to heaven. God Rest His Soul... Same for my hubby that just died. God Rest His Soul. I pray they both are up there with JESUS! I'll see y'all some day. Ol' Sonny passed away... Along with Red. I pray the same for them. Everybody has problems.. We all need forgiveness... Elvis Was Gift From God Just Like My Hubby.

[@karenhill6012]

0pp0p

[@Titan52berg]

Praise you, Gussy, for your faith in our Savior!

[@jackhammer6179]

You cannot pray for the dead. The dead are judged then it's Heaven or Hell based on faith in Jesus as Saviour.

[@gldesmarais9356]

Praying for the dead is not a biblical concept. Our prayers have no bearing on someone once he or she has died. The reality is that, at the point of death, one’s eternal destiny is confirmed. Either he is saved through faith in Christ and is in Heaven where he is experiencing rest and joy in God’s presence, or he is in torment in Hell. The story of the rich man and Lazarus the beggar provides us with a vivid illustration of this truth. Jesus plainly used this factual story to teach that after death the unrighteous are eternally separated from God, that they remember their rejection of the gospel, that they are in torment, and that their condition cannot be remedied (Luke 16:19-31).

[@gldesmarais9356]

If you don't have a King James Bible, you don't have an inspired Holy Bible!

[@littleredlady99]

Thank you for sharing. I could listen to stories about Elvis all day long. He is my favorite singer of all time. He will always be the King!

[@BrendaBooher-hw4mf]

Luv the story about the skating rink. The way Sonny tells it is so funny. Rest in peace Sonny West.

[@kennethw.presley8332]

$125,000 for doing the Timex Special Elvis and Frank in 1960 was 1,041,000.00 unreal!!! Sonny We miss you and know You loved Elvis and Elvis loved you... In Heaven all is forgiven May you and Elvis once again laugh together. RIP Sonny!

[@janinefarris4539]

I can see what Elvis saw in Sonny West. And it is because of KZbin even after 40 years after Elvis Presley's passing I can take someone and get another whole meaning out of it experience by seeing the same performance . what I noticed was a vulnerability in Elvis it's almost like I got to know him KZbin has allowed me to enjoy and study the characteristics of people that I've admired and so I notice the same beautiful winner bility with Sonny. Now these are kind of Macho men but with the sweet side and I appreciate that very much as a woman with respect to what we would find attractive an irresistible in a man

[@janinefarris4539]

I meant to say in the former text not winner ability but vulnerability although it is a winner ability LOL now here is a case of the old adage there are no accidents a touch of semantic synchronicity

[@TheBigGuyATX]

Yes, it's amazing to think that you could buy a home in 1960 for under $12,000. The price of a home under $12,000. So that helps put it into perspective the kind of money Elvis made back then ($125K for a couple of song performances). Unfortunately, Tom Parker was taking 50%, an outrages amount for a manager. Should have been 10-15%.

[@janinefarris2748]

I've heard many stories and seen many documentaries but this one the way the delivery of the story it's so touching the way Sonny West expressed himself he could really transport you and make you feel like you were part of the group. Thank you sonny

[@gracieg7601]

I loved Sonny and Red. I know these two men loved Elvis.

[@paulmorrison9590]

@@gracieg7601 said you

[@dressersmith]

Lisa Marie says on video the West brothers are scumbags and as an adult she would have nothing to do with them.

[@toddphipps5496]

Pretty amazing since Sonny threw Elvis under the bus by exploiting his personal and private life for financial and celebrity gain. He was a gopher and funky that wouldn't have ever had a pot to piss in.

[@keetonplace]

@@toddphipps5496 Thank you for truth. I wish he would have spoken kindly of Elvis in that hatchet book he wrote with like-minded friends. They will forever be remembered for that, and for betrayal of a good man.

[@stringup5829]

A few years back, went down to Graceland with an Elvis tribute artist that I was playing guitar for, it was Elvis week and we actually met Sonny and sat with him and started chatting with him for a while, what a really nice and down to earth guy. Something I will never forget. R.I.P. Sonny.

[@willfade7994]

STRING UP '58 I'm sure you knew then you were making a great memory. Moments like that happen once in a lifetime. I'm glad you met Sonny! My Dad met Elvis. He always loved to tell that story and how kind Elvis was. They both had that southern charm and were very similar in personalities and looks! I hope you got some photos of your visit to Graceland. God bless you.

[@theresalee4844]

That's awesome! Thanks for sharing!

[@StringsUp58]

I've always imagined what the world would be like, if more people were like Elvis.

[@kittiejacobs2877]

Eye. stupid Benny Spy, you sure live up to the stupid part of your chosen name. Yet you cannot stop trading on Elvis' name: "my mother worked for Elvis"! Pathetic!

[@vickinyman6128]

Love Elvis

[@vickinyman6128]

Elvis ,i love you always and forever

[@WatchDoggyDog]

❤️

[@richardkirk5098]

Yes. I once had an important job interview. I was nervous afraid I would blow it. I wasn’t very experienced and didn’t know the correct way to behave. So I made up my mind that I would behave like Elvis. I said “yes sir” and “no sir” to everyone I spoke to. Even the janitor. I got the job. Years later the man in personnel told me that they had more experienced people than me apply for that job, but they gave it to me because of my attitude. That job changed my life. Thanks Elvis

[@storkdeliverysstorkdeliver2846]

I could listen to Sonny all day ! These stories are great !

[@P.F.3.]

After all is said and done Elvis was a generous and good Southern man ! We love and miss him ❤️ Rest in peace 🕊️ sir

[@hotwheel6663]

Always heard Elvis loved Christmas. Man the 70s was a fun time

[@dianebays5484]

It really was. I grew up in the 70s, and it was the best. The kids these days, have no idea!

[@Nimrodbodeinejr]

My grandmother and mother always plays his Christmas music my grandma has since passed but we still play it as a traditional thing now

[@nomadyesmad4875]

It was a more simple time except for the awful American car's. People were pushing them more than driving 'em. Then Japan figured out how to eat our lunch with their more dependable car's.

[@alejandromunozcv1067]

Time aora tú cumple lo qué tú dises

[@frankiemiekley1774]

pool champ198

[@elsabekock5731]

What a wonderful show I had watch just to listen to Sunny telling all these great stories about Elvis.

[@donnalawlor1497]

Thanks Sonny for your sweet memories of the life and times with the one and only Elvis Presley ❤️. Each time I hear stories about the kindness and generosity he had for his fellow man, reminds me of why he Still so loved and remembered. Each of the men who were Elvis's entourage were so affected by his passing and never the same after. Such was the enormous impact Elvis had on their lives. Many could not speak of him without tears. He was someone very special and not forgotten.

[@krystynagorazdowska3746]

Sonny to zdrajca, farbowany lis jak pozostali z mafi, judasze, dalej zerują na Elvisie !!!

[@roseofsharon3240]

Thank you for sharing your experience with Elvis. I can see the love you & the others had for him...Elvis was so driven to please his fans at any cost to himself. I think he was not able to see how bad it was for him or he just wanted out...his Ora or magnetism that Drew people to him was amazing he was the most beautiful man on the planet and he had a great heart as well one thing is good that He was a Christian, he believed in Jesus Christ...in the end that’s all that matters this life is just a passing through to an Eternal life with our Lord of lord’s & King of kings🙏💓🙏

[@lori3865]

I have pictures of Elvis that my Great aunt gave me when he went to the West Palm Beach Auditorium to see him in concert .I will cherish them forever xoxoxoxox

[@magnuslofgren2441]

R.I.P Sonny, thanks for what you did in your life and for sharing it with us, especialla all on your life with Elvis

[@deborahkhalifeh1320]

Elvis was a beautiful person. A white heart

[@MsBonijoni]

I must have listened to every one of his people tell their stories of the early days and all, but none come close to speaking a story the way Sonny West can. He remarked on things that had me laughing so hard. He brought texture and a whole range of living history that it felt like you were right there living it as he narrated it. This man didn’t miss a thing, not a nuance, not a detail, he remembered it all. Spoken beautifully with eloquent, full emphasis to detail as only he could. You can tell he lived a full life by the King. .✨

[@izom]

...you wish that people like elvis live FOREVER....what a great man he must be...

[@jacobcarroll9570]

I could sit around and listen to him tell these stories for days.

[@chucke3935]

Thanks. A very insightful video. Although Sonny helped to write a negative book about Elvis, this video proves he still had love for Elvis. I laughed and had some sad moments upon viewing this video. But I think every true hardcore Elvis fan should view this video to get to know Elvis off stage from a friend that knew all the ups and downs of Elvis as a regular and gifted person.

[@gracieg7601]

Sonny and Red loved Elvis. They were there when allot of the others were not. But Billy was always with Elvis. Billy was stuck on Elvis cause he had been with him as a child, They had blood between them. I love Billy & Jo. Great family. That’s how families were back then. Took care of each other. Gladys family was huge. And they helped each other.

[@dalemmmm]

I can never get over the fact that they betrayed Elvis!

[@SkullsHD]

@@dalemmmm Elvis betrayed them. Threw his friendships away for drugs

[@dalemmmm]

@@SkullsHD give me a break so they wrote a book instead of walking away? And they did plenty of drugs themselves!

[@keetonplace]

@@dalemmmm Yes they did, but they don't tell that in their trash books. Another one including cousin Billy. called Revelations. Someone who was around told me they would NEVER have wanted a book written about THEM! As this person, as well as daughter Lisa said, they were all worse than Elvis. But they betrayed him. The two Wests had been fired when they, and Dave Hebler wrote their hatchet book.

[@Toltecgrl]

Such Great Memories! I bet they all have great stories to laugh and talk about when they get together.

[@fonziematos]

Love to hear all the stories of Elvis Pesley !

[@blancamiranda6661]

So much insight I got chocked up a couple of times cuz I went to Graceland 2019 june...u can actually feel all these stories u hear(the energy)they spent so much time there all of them living life..you can feel them it was so exciting..I felt a little disrespectful going though all the personal day to day..thats how much u feel him there🌹

[@barbararamos7964]

I love all these stories about Elvis being so generous!

[@timsmith9169]

Not many people realize he served under the draft .spearhead division .so I am honored to call him my brother in arms .rip bro

[@timsmith9169]

@Led zep 4 1971 get your facts right sonny there was a draft going on who said anything about war

[@dustingrant2062]

. can you imagine how cool it would've been to hangout with them... they got to live life ...wish i could have met them all.... rip MEMPHIS MAFIA ⚡⚡ an always⚡ TCB⚡

[@nightowl4137]

People need to plan for the future because you never know what tomarrow brings. My daddy told me that when I first started to work 51 yrs ago. " Thanks dad for the best advice I've ever gotten ".

[@norileyble2482]

2

[@janjacksonauthor]

That was absolutely wonderful. Elvis would approve of how you presented yourself, him and the others in his life. At 7 years old the first music 🎶 I ever heard was Hound Dog and that was the first moment I literally felt life in me.

[@jeanietoler6553]

Very touching...I enjoyed it and felt Sony's love for Elvis......

[@barbarajenkins8319]

Loved it.

[@jennifernapoli8172]

R.I.P. Sonny❤️and Thank You for Loving Elvis and sharing your Precious Elvis memories with us fans💗💖❤️

[@michelleevans4948]

Loving elvis, he betrayed elvis

[@mshappyapple8663]

OMG!! The laughter and the tears from listening to this man talk. A wonderful, sincere speaker. Thank you so much for posting this. It really gave us a taste of the true man and how much he also loved Elvis. Don't believe everything you read - listen to what comes straight from the horse's mouth. These videos are gold as so many of these men are no longer with us. I wish I could have been a fly on the wall to experience some of these things.

[@darleneharris5157]

I laughed and cryed too!! He was a wonderful storyteller!! I cryed about the monkey and the woman the got the electric wheelchair!! 💖💕💕💕💕💕

[@Gigi1111Layna]

The horse or donkey was still making money off of Elvis..well after Elvis passed too. Elvis did not like disloyalty.

[@lilliangilbert4252]

​@@darleneharris5157❤ yes I loved that story! ❤❤❤😅

[@sandramiller8701]

that's just how ELVIS was he had Emphany for people forget about his pain awhile a worrie about someone else's. do his best to comfort you help you buy you a gift show his symphony yes I agree 100% w Sonny he was very human.

[@mwilliamshs]

Googled emphany. Didn't get anything.

[@joysheets2412]

What is Emphany & symphony mean in your comment? Do you mean empathy & sympathy?

[@beatleme2]

Rest in peace Sonny :(... I didn't know he died last YR ..thanks for posting this

[@nightowl5475]

That was a nice presentation. I remember the day the Elvis died, I heard the announcement on the radio that day. I was only a kid but everybody knew who he was. I always thought he was too young to die cause he wasn’t an older man. But, he was the King!

[@johnhook8198]

Such a lovely guy, RIP Sonny West

[@raven_ous2585]

Have you forgotten that he shafted Elvis, along with the other West and Hebler!!!!

[@LARRYCAL]

Anita Flynn how did he do that?

[@raven_ous2585]

@@LARRYCAL Do your research

[@jimmysapien9961]

He died ??? & shafted Elvis ???

[@LARRYCAL]

Anita Flynn why not tell me if you know

[@lordburlap4514]

The ART OF Elvis will never die.

[@jeanjones1846]

Elvis was something else.We miss all these guys ... but they are together now ... that's what counts.

[@maribrenner2232]

God Bless You, Sonny West!! He was, and still is, a good & great man who brought us much needed love and appreciation for his unbelievable talent!! Miss him so much!!

[@ronw9901]

Sonny west betrayed elvis. And Lisa Marie hated him and red and Marty lacker

[@lilliangilbert4252]

He wrote " ELVIS WHAT HAPPENED" THAT BETRADE ELVIS. ELVIS WAS DAD ABOUT THAT BOOK. I HAVE THAT BOOK AND THEY TOLD HIS PERSONAL BUSINESS. 😢😢😢😢😢

[@gmeadows62]

So Sonny, thank Elvis for being in his life. Without Elvis, you’d be nothing.

[@bamafan62]

i'm sure he did....Sonny loved Elvis, if you can't see that then you are a fool

[@Papageientaucher]

"...a King? I didnt know a King comes!" "No, not a King, THE King!" -thanks a lot for uploading.

[@brojamesg1781]

How they turned on Elvis when he couldn't afford to keep them around

[@cowboysteel]

R.i.p. Sonny,One of the few who tried to help

[@Prd2bamom5]

Wow thanks so much Mr. Sonny West 😊I love watching and hearing as many things about Elvis ❤ as I can and these stories were just amazing!!! I laughed a lot 😂 I’m glad you did this so that fans like me can hear how Elvis really was. It makes me feel like I knew him a bit. I thought it was just me who thought, he seriously was a handsome man that seemed to be really generous and thoughtful and just really well mannered and kind in nature. But now I’ve listened and watched so many things about Elvis and a lot of people say that Elvis really was that kind of person. And for straight men to say that Elvis was really just a very good looking man, well that says a lot! Anyways I enjoyed hearing these stories it was a real treat, thank you Mr. Sonny West and May you Rest In Paradise along side Elvis ❤🙏 love 💕 to you both #WishI’dBeenInElvisTimes!

[@appalachianwoman561]

I was born in 1979 but I grew up on Elvis music, I had a doll of Elvis made in 1984 by Graceland that I cried until my mom bought me at the local Family Dollar store and loved that doll. From the doll I ended up with Elvis music because my mom was a fan and had even written him a letter back in the 1960s and I hear they've kept every piece of fan mail Elvis ever got there at Graceland. I used to have a wooden clock of Elvis with the blue background and him in the red jacket. I listened to his music and still think OMG what an amazing voice. However hearing this man, and several others like even Elvis' cook talk about him you can tell he was the most kind hearted person and delighted in gifting others just to see them smile, Imagine the untold stories we don't know about of Elvis going into a store and giving an employee a gift of money or even cars. They'll never be another Elvis, rest in piece because God's got the greatest singer in the world up there entertaining him now.

[@olgaraffa1]

To think there could have been two Elvises!! He was the twin that lived, he seemed to live more life than one anyways!!

[@DiamondGirl333]

I thoroughly enjoyed that.

[@lindalongenecker4924]

I enjoyed this so much. Thank you Sonny.

[@ollie241189]

Sonny West absolutely adored Elvis! May he rest in peace with his brothers!

[@gailvarchula5542]

Sonny West was a Great Speaker. He spoke with such feeling & remembering the funny times he actually told these memories I could actually visualize all these times & start to laugh. When he got more serious I would fill with tears. (Forget the Book) I could see in his eyes how much He loved ELVIS RIP 🙏 WHEN HE TOLD ABOUT WHEN ELVIS DIED. YOU COULD SEE HOW MUCH HE LOVED ELVIS HIS EYES WERE FILLING WITH TEARS..SONNY THANK YOU FOR SHARING ALL THESE WONDERFUL PRECIOUS MEMORIES ❤ WITH ALL OF US. SONNY RIP 🙏 ❣❣❣

[@joanne26]

Hello from England ELVIS died 2 days before my 12th birthday. I have been a FAN ever since. OH MY Watching lots of videos about ELVIS and his "backstory" it makes me think so much more about the years that have passed by -50+ When you consider the influence ELVIS had, the size and magnitude of STARDOM that he had he was "forced" into that "isolation" by nature of his fame so he had to be surrounded all the time and be taken place to place by car. When ELVIS bought the Lisa Marie the only difference was they would get to a venue quicker. The group was very important to him in so many ways and he trusted them but they had to "look after ELVIS" in case he got hurt or he would get into situations he could not get out of. If he was stopped from getting where he had to be by FANS and had to pull away it may have looked awkward and given the wrong image. The guys apart from Jerry have all died now and they should have had NO REGRETS. They did their best for ELVIS and loved him. I think that there were PLENTY OF THE GOOD TIMES than the BAD and THEY ALL HAD SUCH WONDERFUL LIFE EXPERIENCES. Such different times and we were not there so how can people write horrible things about them.

[@briankane3905]

That is so sad. I met Elvis in 76, and after shaking his hand, I couldn't help to think what troubled him so much. He seemed distant, I have no idea why. Seemed like a great guy to me.

[@user-cs3hi8zp7p]

Man alive...could you imagine!! Wonderful story teller Sonny is...and clearly an amazing man, as well👍