Rustywells talks about Elvis Presley & Red & Sonny West

• Rustywells - Red & Son...
The following is the link... to the phone conversation between Red West and Elvis Presley... which happened in October of 1976.
Click the link below to hear the phone conversation between Red and Elvis...
• Elvis Presley phone ca...
Link to download Paltalk Chat program: www.paltalk.com/
Rustywells talks about Red & Sonny West... and the book they wrote about their friend, Elvis Presley. Red & Sonny West were friends of Elvis... and did all they could do to help him. Unfortunately there are people that have been told untrue things... or urban legends... and believe those mis-truths. Thanks for listening!
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976
"Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use."

[@serenity8145]

If they really had wanted to help. They could’ve written him a personal letter. Writing a book and exposing his details is kind of a betrayal.

[@HB2490]

Exactly how I felt.

[@ginadee4142]

Yeap. A betrayal. All his secrets. That's not right.

[@Patracat]

Do you really think Elvis would have taken any notice of a letter?? He probably would have ripped it up without reading it. If he refused to listen to people trying to tell him face to face, he is hardly likely to read a letter.

[@rustywells01]

@@pattynuzzello9035 When you have a intervention it is usually friends and family that are with you and they have you face the consequences of your actions to hopefully get the person to see the error of their ways. Since they had been let go they no longer had the ability to do it face to face as they had tried previously to getting let go. They went to a more desperate way to have this type of intervention.. they did it publicly and made Elvis face his problems in a public way. It definitely embarrassed him in front of his fans and their hope was Elvis would then try to quit the drug abuse and get clean! Again sadly it didn’t work and we all lost Elvis and so it became even sadder for them because now they lost their friend whom the did love and now they would never be able to make it right with Elvis but at least they made it right with Elvis family and most friends!

[@Patracat]

@@pattynuzzello9035 I get you, I really do, and I can only begin to imagine Elvis' distress and anger, but can also see the despair his loved ones felt, seeing this magnificent man brought to the brink of death because he refused to acknowledge that he could do more to help himself. I got the impression that he felt immortal; once he was in front of an audience who clearly adored him, he was invincible, but the human body can only take so much. At 42 years old he continued to sing and dance his heart out as if he was still 22. No use blaming the Colonel, Dr Nick, or anyone else, Elvis wanted to keep going and nothing was going to stop him and he just burnt himself out. Having the other health issues certainly didn't help either.😢😢😢

[@Kirsten130]

Why did they have to talk about two way mirrors and sexual stuff if they were trying to help him?That is not helping an addict.

[@ГалинаФедорова-д6д]

Yes. You'a absolutely right.

[@randyharris3175]

Deborah but elvis did not know red was taping him thats pretty low in my opion

[@gassbaggerwoods5955]

@Blue Bird that book should never have been written while elvis was still alive

[@chorontexpliquepetitcon127]

@Blue Bird he licencied them without pay them , it was too late for that

[@dawn8746]

So many leaches in Elvis Presley life it is called Betrayals. Elvis was loved by the world and that love still goes on ❤

[@peter61967]

Sooooo true. And if dr Nick was any kind of doctor he should have said no and if he couldn’t say NO then walk away don’t keep giving it to him just because he’s Elvis. Same for the rest of the bums

[@sandralybrand9425]

@@peter61967 Dr Nick stayed on because he tried to control what Elvis was taking. Elvis was going to other Drs to get what Dr Nick wouldn't give him! Dr Nick was the fall Guy! A lot of prescribed drugs were for his entourage and some prescriptions were forged! Dr Nick even had a full time nurse on the premises and his meds were only given at certain times. Elvis sent one of the step brothers was sent out to get drugs from another Dr! Red and Sonny threatened him, that he better not bring anymore in! They told Elvis and Elvis told them to stay out of his business!

[@peter61967]

@@sandralybrand9425 I know all of that, but you forgot to mention that Nick owed Elvis a shit load of money, so what Elvis wanted he got from NICK. I don’t like all the sugar coating and avoiding the truth that Nick well and truly over prescribed to Elvis Presley. So by doing this and taking money from him steps over the line of Dr and patient. Nick was not the great guy people make him out to be, he was in it for what he could get and gave too many pills along the way!!!!!

[@kathy-t5q]

Elvis cried in front of friends BECAUSE of this book. Pure revenge.

[@rustywells01]

Partly revenge and partly to help Elvis which I say in the videos

[@hollielee6719]

Respect Elvis's 😇♥️ dignity 🙏 privacy 🔏 his hard work 🎤🎸💵 talent 🎤🎸🎹💜 generosity 🤑 service in the Army 🪖 and legacy 🎶🎵😍 Write and say positive things 💖 about Elvis 😇

[@ChristyRayne]

elmo, very sorry to hear that you had to go through that. I think most of us can understand to some level the pain that Elvis experienced. Thank you for taking the time to share your story with us... we appreciate the comment!!

[@elisazaccaro3956]

My husband and I are Elvis biggest fans, the way I see it, friends don't do that to friends if they really loved and care about Elvis the book wasn't needed, it would have been different if someone else on the outside had written it...I can only imagine how he must have felt when that book was published, betrayed, hurt for sure!!! If they really really cared they should have laid it on the line including their jobs longer before the idea of the book, myself I was in shock and still am as I find out the reality of what was going on, and one thing I totally agree, no one made Elvis do anything he did not want to do, having said that what was the point of the book at that particular time if not to hurt him and gladly expose his personal life, my conclusion of the ones that betrayed him, they definitely did not care for Elvis or of the outcome, regardless true fans stayed loyal and will forever..long live the King of Rock and Roll ...We Love You Elvis and Always Will

[@rustywells01]

Elisa Zaccaro I appreciate your comment and it’s well said.... trust me everyone around Elvis that loved him and this includes Red.. Sonny and Hebler did what they could to help... Elvis didn’t allow people close to tell him he had a problem!! They got desperate knowing they wouldn’t be close to Elvis as before!! You and others may never understand or agree at their motives... I can tell you this... they cared and Loved Elvis... Red and Sonny till they day they died!!! They really only had good intentions at the Time!!

[@johnllewellyn7085]

Ya well what you don't understand is that, a real friend will try to save your life, unless you were inside and seeing what Elvis was doing to himself, i would have done alot more than what red and sonny did, so sorry a real friend steps up, red and sonny are heroes for trying

[@odiekarone]

Has anybody ever wondered about how Elvis truly felt? Not about the book, but why he kept taking all those drugs? Of course, Elvis said to sleep and then to “wake up.” But there are other ways to get to sleep without the opioids and some of the stronger stuff Elvis took. I believe the ONLY person that could have gotten through to Elvis was his mother. Maybe Elvis was just so deeply depressed, he was tired of living?

[@lynnalvaro1359]

Elisa Zaccaro I’m with you.

[@randyharris3175]

That book was not started until elvis fired them

[@Chloe-j3o]

And then? No one has the right to make public the private life of a former employer.

[@wendymaree]

I read that book a long time ago, and they actually wrote it after they were fired. And I think I remember a recording of a phone conversation between Elvis and Red where Elvis gave his blessing for the West brothers to go ahead with publishing the book. I think I remember Elvis saying, 'You do what you gotta do, man.'

[@gassbaggerwoods5955]

yea i read the script & heard the call phone call and at the end he said anything i can do you know where i am. to the end elvis was looking out for them . i heard a lot of regret in that call showed empathy and love was always looking out for people and wat he could do to make things better.

[@MissLachine]

@PattyNuzzello I totally agree with you~In the phone conversation with Red West {It seemed to me that Red West was trying to get Elvis to admit and to say He was totally out of control ~Also unbeknownst to Elvis he had no idea the conversation was being recorded ~In my Heart “Red West” Betrayed Elvis ~Just my Opinion! 💕🌻

[@randyharris3175]

But Elvis didn't know Red was taping that conversation.

[@penmarie7123]

@@randyharris3175 He sure didnt...how sad...and while I sometimes give Red and Sonny a "pass" with regard to the book -- because deep down I believe they truly loved Elvis...it's hard to give him a pass on this phone call, recorded without Elvis' knowledge...and to add insult to injury, YES, I too, believe that Red was trying to get Elvis to admit that he had lost control...doesn't get much more sad than that. Love you, E. ❤⚡❤

[@lilliangilbert4986]

Yep! I have that book, it's old but it's there. I've read it twice. I also have Albert Goldman, '81 who was mostly written by one of the guys too, Marty Locker I think that's his name, the big guy.

[@rustywells01]

R.I.P Sonny West!!! God Bless You and Your Family!!

[@jasonlavender2394]

Friends like that you don't need enemies

[@cjthecherokeeindianelvis6494]

Hello Elvis Fans,when Im feeling down,I just put on a Elvis Record. and sing along.Then I'm ok..TCB

[@alexmetista]

Same here...

[@caprice8770]

Me too!

[@lindalalla3256]

Yes I know the feeling I listen to him every day and no I am exaggerating if I don't I feel as though I am missing something I will listen to other music but I have to go back to his music I am hooked on his music full stop 💔💔💘💘💖💖

[@lilliangilbert4986]

CJ: Cheap therapy! 😜🙏

[@rustywells01]

Great comment! Thanks!

[@karenjessup810]

Everyone needs to read the book Elvis and the Memphis Mafia. The original core group (Red, Sonny, Lamar, Marty and Billy) tried to work with Elvis to overcome his addictions to prescription medication but he would not cooperate. Dr Nick had only prescribed four medications.

[@chriskrist3336]

No one is blaming anyone for getting Elvis addicted but they sold him out by writing this book, no excuse they sold him out!

[@rustywells01]

chris Krist I respect your opinion however i disagree because i why i say in this video!!

[@DEBORAHAJONES-gv5hu]

Elvis even said in the phone call that there had been a lack of communication in recent years

[@gassbaggerwoods5955]

elvis was too busy being out of it to know wat was going on around him

[@caprice8770]

@@gassbaggerwoods5955 NO.

[@gassbaggerwoods5955]

@@caprice8770 why "NO "!?

[@caprice8770]

@@gassbaggerwoods5955 I have a theory, but will NOT go into it.

[@bringbackcommonsense528]

I would say that would be due to Joe & the Col. Joe did everything he could to try and move in between the older friends & Elvis. Joe has been caught in a few videos where he has changed his stories & he keeps quiet about the time Elvis was unhappy with him reporting everything to the Col. It was that bad that he didn't want to talk to him and Joe went back to California for a very long time and couldn't get much work.

[@dhaley8847]

Elvis loaned Dr Nick the money to build his house and Elvis held the note, when Elvis died Vernon told Dr Nick he better not miss a payment or he would take the house!

[@ballantine58]

Dr. Nick was a hanger on user. He kissed Elvis's ass by giving him any drug he wanted in exchange for money and also borrowing money from Elvis.

[@sylviaruiz754]

Good for Vernon not letting up on Dr.Nick. So sad Vernon just lasted two yrs.after Elvis died. Dr. Nick still got away with so much. I'm sure. I agree he used Elvis getting more & more money out of him. He got off too easy. Shame on him.

[@charlestehuia9263]

Probably scared of ending up stone ass broke again.. to me Vernon was a bit of lazy , good for nothing, No account , leech ... just my opinion

[@dhaley8847]

@@charlestehuia9263 Vernon only had a 3rd grade education and was always worried about being broke that is why he tried to keep Elvis's spending in check as much as he could. Elvis always respected his dad and valued his judgement on many of his business matters.

[@susiemitchell8555]

@@dhaley8847 eLVIS WAS Close to his dad than most of the men in the memphis Mafia and joe he trusted joe diamond

[@deboisblanc]

Who is this guy? Who can verify that he knows more about Elvis than anyone? Other than him?

[@dianebays5484]

I've seen his name on other videos about Elvis, not his own. I don't know what their connection is.

[@jeanette4633]

That’s what I was wondering. Who is this guy who claims to know Elvis more than anyone except Priscilla? I’d like to know more about him.

[@caprice8770]

@@dianebays5484 Rusty Wells is a mystery man. In the Elvis movie GIRL HAPPY.. Elvis's character was named Rusty Wells.

[@dianebays5484]

@@caprice8770 oh wow! I thought it was a guy that had researched about Elvis. I commented on another video, a couple years ago. Rusty answered my question in the comment section. That's wild!

[@camillabarclay4049]

Asking same thing politely

[@boris.dupont]

How in the hell did that book protect Elvis in any way? It was the estocada of the corrida the final blow that actually killed him in the end. I know Red and Sonny loved him and didn't mean to but they were angry and hit him hard because they didn't know any better. Still it was unjust and unfair. Loyalty man where was it?

[@rustywells01]

Боря Дюпон The book didn't protect Elvis... it was wrote as a form of a intervention!! Red and Sonny did Love Elvis... they had been friends since Elvis was in high school at Humes high school!! Whether you or others agree to their reasons for doing the book... they wanted to save Elvis!! Also the book didn't kill Elvis... it hurt his feelings however... it in No reason was why Elvis passed!!!!

[@boris.dupont]

rustywells01 Thanks for your answer. Elvis was very, very sick at the time and completely wore out. Still he had hopes for the future and actual plans. That book didn't leave him a chance it was a fatal blow at the worst time of his life. Did the book kill him? Well a lot of things killed Elvis in the last years of his life but this book was the final blow, the one that sent him off for good because it took away his last hopes of being remembered as the person he really was. At least that's how he felt about it. Red said and he was right: 'Elvis was a kid in a man's body who could no longer handle the celebrity he had become'. Let alone fight back his best friends who attacked him in public.

[@rowenabushman8639]

My sentiments exactly...

[@brendabooher6683]

I agree. They betrayed Elvis.

[@lynnalvaro1359]

Боря Дюпон agree with you.

[@hirskdubbi]

THEY KILLED HIM BY WRITING THAT BOOK!!!!!! red west is no hero

[@timjespersen3605]

Elvis was a good hearted person who became severely addicted and obviously battled depression. RIP

[@rustywells01]

Tim Jespersen Elvis was a great person!!! Thanks for listening!!!

[@juliewashington8052]

Tim Jespersen

[@juliewashington8052]

I also think Elvis was very depressed

[@lisamariepagliei3945]

@@juliewashington8052 this is a very important point you brought to this and it's an underrated, or understand, fact. I absolutely believe he was deeply depressed. And I'm sorry if I offend anyone but I'm on the, he missed Priscilla and the nuclear family they shared. Yes, I believe that. I also am not convinced he would have remained faithful to Ginger Alden. Old habits die hard. Whether they married or not. And that's something I can't be certain of but I'll assume they would have, as Ginger's story is compelling. "If they do it for you, they'll do it to you"; there's a lot of truth to that theory. And this WAS ELVIS PRESLEY. Yes, he was depressed. For SURE.

[@superfly19751]

Yes, he was. But he lived a life the way he wanted it. No doubt!

[@boris.dupont]

A sensationalistic book is not an honest book to begin with and telling the whole world about things you want to keep private and can't handle no more, whatever the reason, is not being honest with your friend face to face. This book was a lethal blow that came at the worst time in Elvis' life. Elvis couldn't defend himself no more and that tell all book (tell all, really? What about the good?) didn't leave him a chance. Also let's not forget it was mainly a revenge and money thing to start with. Sonny soon admitted the book was written out of anger and bitterness and Red who told Elvis on the phone he had lost his house in California because he was fired soon bought a new one in Memphis with the money he got for writing the book. I know they were hurt and Red and Sonny loved Elvis and he loved them but that book never helped out Elvis one bit, it ultimately lead him to die within months while he had other plans for his future. That book was a terrible mistake. Before he passed away Elvis had been saying over and over again, almost every day: where is loyalty, man, where is it? Now they're all gone and they sure can discuss it up there but I'm not sure they agree with your version Rustywells, no matter how good your intentions. Anyway thanks for sharing your thoughts about it and God bless you!

[@rustywells01]

Боря Дюпон Thanks for your thoughts on the video!! When I was talking about this I was talking Live in my Paltalk room... that is dedicated to Elvis! I was talking directly to a person in my room!! I wanted to have them look at a different point of view and reason why they wrote book on a different level! They knew as I did then and know now... a lot of it was from hurt and a bit of anger but I will say this again... there was just as much written out of a sort of intervention to wake Elvis up to how his actions were not only hurting him but his friends and family close to him!! They truly had tried for years to get Elvis to clean up his lifestyle a bit!! They didn’t want to lose him!! They deep down Were trying to save Elvis!! God Bless!!

[@rosehoary8906]

The worst part of betrayal is that it always happens by a friend! There are a thousand ways to betray, but None of is as dirty as pretending to love! because loving Elvis and intending to wake him up and save his life by writing the most private personal issues of his life to the public. It's like telling someone who is committing suicide; I will kill you if you kill yourself! By writing this book, they do exactly the same thing with Elvis, betrayal is like a muffler, it silently kills person. He talks about Elvis' addiction to pills and his lifestyle and that he refused to listen to anyone talk about it, but he does not say why Elvis was taking painkillers, why he needed them? Truth has two sides like a coin, the problem is we always see only one side of it, not the whole truth, whether you are a star or an ordinary person, everyone's privacy must be respected,that's it.

[@rustywells01]

Thanks for your comment!

[@michaelcleary9745]

Wake up Elvis took enough meds the last 12 hrs of his life to kill anyone times 3. Mixture of all kinds of pain meds and sleep meds on top of each other. Yeah he had health problems but he had a bigger drug problem.

[@robbiejenkins4379]

I agree totally.

[@robbiejenkins4379]

Yes betrayal

[@rustywells01]

Sandra, Elvis was just very persuasive....Elvis Loved Jesus Christ!!!!

[@MsBonijoni]

They exposed a VERY famous man during his weakest time so let’s get real, real friends don’t roll this way. .. even tight friends can part ways but it should never be for a financial advantage nor a motive to make for the same thing. ,.when it is, it can be summed up as being disloyal, disingenuous too. Just my two cents for what it’s worth.

[@rustywells01]

Thanks for your comment and opinion!

[@kevinmckenna4847]

You’re exactly correct…

[@gambriehewert1677]

Elvis and his bodyguards used each other, it was always going to end in tears.

[@gracieg7601]

Lots of things happened that none of us know about. That’s right there were things that happened that we don’t know.

[@gracieg7601]

@@gambriehewert1677 it wouldn’t have happened at all if Vernon had done what Elvis told him to do.

[@charlestehuia9263]

I agree , both Red and Sonny loved the man,they wanted to help their friend and help him to shake his addiction , Hell we all loved Elvis and I'm 100% sure that they were both trying to help their friend and our idol. Thank you both for trying and God bless you all now that you are all united again.

[@williebeamen2x]

Red , sonny ,Lamar, Joe, JD, Jerry, Billy , Marty , Larry, charlie, and George were his closest friends.....but I think Larry, Jerry, &Billy were the most true and never tried to gain anything from elvis's death .....just my opinion, how do yall feel??

[@charlestehuia9263]

@@williebeamen2x yes maybe you're right,I do think both Red and Sonny did love Elvis though,I have watched and listened to a few seminars Sonny conducted on his life with the super star and you can hear,see and witness his honesty and love for his friend Elvis Presley.

[@charlestehuia9263]

@Radiant Siren Maybe,but we have to put ourselves in their position, Elvis Presley was the greatest entertainer and highest paid super star on earth at the time when Red and Sonny worked security for him right,so they were the hired help first and personal friends second,therefore their hands were tied in terms of dictation to their "Employer" and the man was an adult ... how could they enforce anything on Elvis without being fired ?

[@KitKat-dx6mt]

Come on, even his friends said they didn’t get paid that much, any friend of mine that was addicted to drugs weather it was prescription or street drugs, I would have had all our friends come together and confront Elvis and I would have called the authorities that would have saved his life. I think the “friends” were addicted as well, until they were let go.

[@randallanthony1794]

Enough of addiction bullshit.war on drugs is hirrible.i hope you are never in chronic pain.if you are i hope you never have to deal with a person with your beliefs on government control it between you and your doctor.its your business.

[@WayneLeng]

It looks as if they all got homes and cars and gifts from Elvis, so I would say he paid very well indeed.

[@lesleywild8706]

@@WayneLeng They didn't all get homes etc. Red definitely still had a mortgage when he was released.

[@WayneLeng]

@@lesleywild8706 Thanks for setting it straight.

[@hirdy6]

Fatal error Elvis made was to surround himself with yes men.

[@sandramiller9084]

A poem for Elvis a tribute because I loved him so much." """""💝and still miss him. THOSE WE. LOVE DONT GO AWAY. THEY ALWAYS WALK BESIDES US EVERYDAY. UNSEEN. UNHEARD. BUT ALEAYS NEAR. STILL LOVED. STILL MISSED. AND FOREVER DEAR TO US I MISS YOUR BLUE EYES. YOUR SAD SMILE. THE WAY YOU MADE US FEEL YOU BROUGHT US LOVE IN ALL YOUR TOURS. IF I COULD BRING YOU BACK ID NEVER LET YOU GO BECAUSE YOU WERE THE GREATEST MAN THIS WORLD HAS EVER KNOW. 🐯""""🐒"""""🐴💝💝💝💝 love a miss you Mr SONGMAN. Love Sandra Miller. 2015. Johnson city. Tennessee.

[@lynnalvaro1359]

Sandra Miller PERFECT, thank you.

[@sandralybrand9407]

That's so beautiful!

[@JohnLeo-e3u]

I believe that Red and Sonny West loved and protected Elvis.

[@melloone611]

The way i heard it Elvis dad fired the West cousins and a few others THAN they wrote the book PERIOD

[@rustywells01]

K Mello I cover this!! Yes they were getting fired because of roughing up some fans.. and yes they wrote the book... however my point is and I have commented over and over... a small part of then writing the book was they were hurt... mostly it was because they wanted to save Elvis!!! It was a intervention of sorts!!! Thanks for listening and your comment!!

[@billdarby4949]

Correct! - Great Video. You just can't make some people understand, even though they were not there. Thanks for your insight!

[@rustywells01]

Bill Darby Thank you for listening and your comment!!

[@peter5807]

@@rustywells01 I always thought that part of the reason they were fired was because Red and Sonny threatened and roughed up one of Elvis' drug dealers. Elvis found out about it and asked his dad to fire them for some bogus excuse regarding cutback in expenses. Red has stated that this is why he believes they were fired.

[@rustywells01]

@@peter5807 They actually were fired mainly due to roughing up some fans till the heat went. ..Away....then actually Elvis wanted them back! Vernon wanted most of the Memphis mafia gone and this was a good way for Vernon to do it!!

[@chasemoore8841]

As I listened to this,I found myself saddened by the fact that at the time no one thought anyone including Elvis could get hooked on prescription medication. Now in todays world,the doctors explain when a certain medication could become habit forming and it is regulated and monitored whereas it was not so back in the 70's.I think that what I heard here was very well stated and very clearly made known that these guys cared about Elvis.It does not matter when or how long it took them to do what they did,what matters is that they took the step to intervene and try to help a friend.Most excellent information and I thank you for sharing. Blessings to you and all Elvis fans

[@lilliangilbert4986]

I read and have " ELVIS WHAT HAPPENED " the book that they are talking about. In the 70s there wasn't a rehabilitation cut. Betty Ford was the first Rehab. Can't. Opened in 1980. In the 70s the retail pharmaceutical reps, would leave samples of dexatrim, Tylenol w codeine, personal, talking ect... all the good stuff. How do I know, I was a nurse working in Beverly Hills, CALIFORNIA! WE DID PHYSICALS FOR THE STUDIOS. I MET A LOT OF CELEBRATIES! THE BLUE BEATUTIES WHERE ALL THE RAGE FOR LOSING WEIGHT. SO WAS ALL THE PAIN KILLERS!

[@dessy844]

Elvis used the drugs to help with his pre-existing conditions with his health and he abused it by took them beyond what's prescribed.. I just finished the book from Marty Lacker and his wife.. A Portrait of a friend Marty was deep in drugs addiction too [ prescription] just like Elvis when he stopped working with Elvis he couldn't keep a job because of that, it was tough to a point that his wife was about to leave him, eventually Marty able to kicked his habit but it was Wow, hell of a ride, sadly this happened to Ronnie Tutt and Donnie Sumner who mentioned getting some drugs from Elvis to keep up with his grueling tour, Donnie in particular got so bad he was suicidal and quit touring, that with Elvis blessing because he wanted to get off drugs and sober. Elvis seems to get in the trapped of his own image, he could if he want to fuck it & take off for few years to focus on his health but he could not because everyone is on his payroll.. He could be the one who initiated Sober House/ rehabilitation center with his fame and name but the rule was complicated I think that Betty Ford wasn't around until early 80s few years after he passed. You know this video tells story of Dark side of Elvis as lesson that Rockstar demise is often from the lifestyle they've chosen. I always love Elvis but I know too that he is only human who has a lot good and bad to overcome

[@llewellynharrell9162]

All they cared about was the money they was going to get out of the damn book they didn't care about Elvis or they wouldn't have been feeding him those pills all those years they would have stopped feeding him those pills and turned in the doctors that was but no they was worried about their jobs they didn't care about Elvis the cared about the almighty dollar

[@paula100762]

They were doing right! They were trying to help him! So sad he didn’t want the help. He might still be alive if he had listened.

[@rustywells01]

Thanks for commenting!

[@myrel543]

Love Sonny and Red

[@rustywells01]

Sandra, My keeping Elvis memory alive has been my whole life!! My paltalk Elvis room opened over 6 years ago!!! As far as Red and Sonny I have always known that their intentions were to wake Elvis up to what he was doing and Save him!!! Thanks for the comment!!!

[@susietaouk1882]

And by helping Elvis, the best way Red & Sonny to do that was to expose his personal stuff to the world which can't be taken back, and hurt him. Stop making excues for them

@@susietaouk1882 Well if ELVIS thought of his DAUGHTER future No because he thought he was UNTOUCHABLE.. why didn't Pricilla try and stop or HELP ELVIS SHE DIDNT TRUELLY CARE FOR HIM SHE LEFT ELVIS FOR HIS KARATE MATE WHO WAS A MARRIED MAN WITH A SMALL CHILD AND A PREGNANT WIFE SO WHO WAS THINKING OF WHO..

[@rustywells01]

@ Priscilla had nothing to do with Elvis later situations! Elvis wanted her back....she was good for him not the opposite!

[@gassbaggerwoods5955]

@Blue Bird I want to know why elvis never had a 24/7 nurse in those last wks he apparently needed round the clock care , had they been there he may have been saved , no point relying on a slip of a kid as Ginger was when she had taken a sleeping pill and went to sleep not watching him as she was meant to? if his nurse was there she may not have been able to save him but least he would not have died alone as he did with a supposed girlfriend in the next room supposed to be watching him as linda always did . she never slept if elvis was still up in case he hurt himself but ginger took a sleeping pill and went to sleep knowing she was to check him !!

[@donniewynn3277]

Joe was a yes man, red told him the truth

[@claudiasue9433]

Yes, there was so much love and good in Elvis' life and in all of his team. But in the later years the stress level grew overwhelming for some, including Elvis. I would note, Rusty, that the book was written and published AFTER Red and others were let go, not before. They were let go for other reasons, and from all I have read, and listened to Red and Sonny themselves say both in the months before and after, I believe their being let go was justifiable at the time. I would like to share my thoughts because I believe, as you all do, that Elvis was and is a very significant and positive influence for the whole world, and his contribution, including that of his team, is worth being honestly appreciated. Elvis' father wanted to let them go several times before, but Elvis would not let him (Elvis told his father "you see their wants, I see their needs.") But apparently Elvis became convinced and allowed their dismissal. Elvis offered them a very generous severance pay arrangement, but unfortunately Vernon didn't pass that on. Only a petty amount, which justifiably angered Red and Sonny. They said they felt "bitter" about being let go like that, and offered that as part of the reason they wrote the book. I can accept that they hoped it would help Elvis to focus on his excessive drug usage, but I feel that was a logic trapped in their bitterness and disappointment. You don't help someone by badly hurting them. In the later months and years they made up - Elvis was ever-forgiving and forgetting. When he saw them first again he said "nice to see you again." If he had lived I believe his life married to Ginger Alden would have brought about the healing he so needed (he and Ginger had decided their wedding date that morning, within hours prior to his death). Please note the following references, which I believe to be important and truthful and up to date at the time of his death: Ginger Alden's and Dr. Nick's books J.D. Sumner - one quote, plus interview about Elvis' life - "The only thing I can say - beside Jesus Christ there is no greater man that ever lived. In any respect - in love of his friends, in loving the world, in giving to the world, there’s no way to express it . . . . beside Jesus Christ, he’s the greatest man I ever knew." - J.D. Sumner Detailed interview: kzbin.info/www/bejne/goSbaKJoi9CNbas AND - THE NEW MOVIE "ELVIS" PREMIERING JUN 24, 2022 kzbin.info/www/bejne/jWHUn5iqqJZqhtE "Elvis is as big as he ever has been." - Tom Hanks, who plays the Colonel in the movie. I know this was long - had to satisfy my heart's feeling at least a little bit. Enjoy and celebrate . . . .

[@billlunsford4301]

Elvis knew what he was doing, just like before I became a recovered addict! I couldn't blame no one for my own prescription drug abuse, and it kills me how people will blame E's bodyguards for his addiction! No one, and I mean no one can protect a man or woman from themselves! If I hadn't quit by getting help, I'd be dead just like E! Addiction is a complete living HELL folks!

[@billlunsford4301]

Let me rephrase that one part, people that blame E's bodyguards for not trying to stop his addiction, and Red did try to stop E from taking pills, but being an addict E didn't won't to listen to Red, or anyone for that matter!

[@paulenajaxn5617]

+Bill Lunsford yes, I absolutely agree with you..I've been there as well and its tough trying to help someone who doesn't think that they need help..my youngest daughter is going through the same thing right now and WE her family have tried time after time to help, she wont have it.. she says shes not hurting anyone but herself..so sad

[@ElectedOfficial1]

+Paulena Jaxn go to your legislators, have town hall meetings and get a truancy bill into law to hold kids under 18 for 3 days to have time to talk to them. My story is at top. I lost my husband, college, a home, cars, her college fund, all in chasing and saving her and her baby's life. I'd do it again. Even though they blame me for the separation. They called CPS recently on me and the case was closed. I ran for appointed state senate and was councilwoman 2 terms. I would do that again but I'm broke and broken....my car gave out. I raised her baby, left with a stranger, now 17 years old. Now I'm paranoid about her. She wants her mom...we are in court, pro se. I'm alone, no help but still strong. 😳😐🤓✅ no dates since 1997 and I was following footsteps of Liz Taylor, but gave it up for my children. Now alone, but they are safe! Amen

[@rustywells01]

+Barbara Mowrey Thanks again for listening!!!

[@sherryfisher2521]

Bill Lunsford Amen

[@dhaley8847]

Red west made movies and wrote songs he had income apart from Elvis, he had contacts in Hollywood and he did fine.

[@lynnalvaro1359]

D Haley sounds right to me. I saw him in some movies.

[@caprice8770]

That's right.

[@soulfireonfire6423]

@@toddcunningham3226 Wrong!! 8 doctors did the autopsy. All 8 doctors stated and were in full agreement after the most thorough autopsy any of them had ever performed, that there was nothing found during the examination that was of marginal significance to cause Mr. Presley to have a heart attack ! The Chief Medical Examiner who was present but not participating in the Autopsy made the announcement stating that basically Elvis died from heart disease. Which in turn caused him to have a heart attack. There was absolutely no evidence found by 8 doctors, that could validate the diagnosis the Chief Medical Examiner presented as the cause of death. But rather a combination of 10 different drugs that were found . Which appeared to have been taken within the last 24 hours. They were unable to give a more detailed analysis of exactly what drugs had been taken within the 8 hours before his death as the contents of Mr. Presley’s abdomen were disposed of before any of us were able to do testing or investigate exactly what was in the content removed from his abdomen/stomach ! Interesting don’t you think!

[@RADIUMGLASS]

Regardless of his script use, he was a good man.

[@gaylegardinerankerry12123]

FINALLY SOMEBODY WHO KNOWS THE TRUTH AND SAYS IT AS IT AS IT IS

[@82566]

Agreed 👍

[@ketarivera7459]

Totally agree!! There is so much to show these guys true character and just amazed at the slander they have been thru since that book even from Elvis family who didn’t have to worry about being dropped off the payroll with no warning and no plan B to support their family. They would have been fools to not take money from the book to survive on until they could get on their feet. I’m sure many people were wanting to hire them after the smear they were put thru as well. I love Elvis but he ruined himself and he ruined his two real friends ability to make a living since they became the most hated. Now Joe and Jerry get to enjoy being speakers at different events and not them stinks!!!

[@gaylegardinerankerry12123]

@@ketarivera7459 TOTALLY AGREE WITH YOU ELVIS WAS HIS OWN ENEMY

[@shinley1948]

Regardless of what you say, Red and Sonny could have been considerate of the feelings of Elvis’s daughter once their smut book was out to the public. So sad. They had no conscious, only deep pockets.

[@rustywells01]

They admitted it wasnt a perfect way of doing it ... However their intentions were justified!! Thanks for commenting!!

[@memphismemphis462]

@@rustywells01 Look I am one the biggest Elvis fans,I was born and rised in Memphis Tenn so I can say this too I love Elvis Presley.I am a grown man and let me say this Red and Sonny West didn't do anything wrong writing that book because Elvis would not listen to anyone and he was killing his self with the drugs period and then Aug 1977 show that Red and Sonny were right.Nobody can stop a man with the power Elvis had.So too the Elvis who are still mad at Red and Sonny get over it and if it was not for them Elvis could have got hurt many times.

[@johnburrows2603]

a true friend never turns there back and tells people personal business!!!.........cut them off like karate !!!!

[@rustywells01]

+John Burrows So let me gets this right....A True friend tells you what you want to hear.....doesn't tell your business sits back and watches you die...because they don't want to lose their gravy train...Right??? Lol!!! No... A True Friend Is Willing to Lose Their Friends friendship and do whatever they have too to wake up their friend so they Don't Die!!! Interventions are Not All Sunshine and Rainbows!!!! Red and Sonny Didnt Want to See Their Friend, Elvis Die!!! Desperate times called for desperate measures...sadly!!!

[@susiemitchell8555]

@@rustywells01 hahahaha ha

[@vaughnwilson477]

Red west wrote the book after he was fired. They all were afraid to get fired. They all were yes men. Elvis was addicted to drugs. These guys knew it and didn’t do anything. It was only after Elvis fired them with 2 weeks pay they decided to write a book.

[@shable1436]

Totally agree with this, Elvis was a sweet man, but everyone turns into a monster when addicted

[@rustywells01]

R.I.P Red West!!! God Bless You and Sonny and your family!!! You Will be Missed!!!

[@desfletc]

Red and Sonny did the right thing, people forget the REAL reason why Red and Sonny were fired, for trying to help him

[@rustywells01]

@Shean Fall Well since Elvis family were and are still friends with Red and Sonny afterwards I find it very amazing the fans still hold this grudge!

[@justbrowsing5963]

I read the book. Let me tell you it was a page turner and an eye opener. The guys were putting up a challenge to Elvis. They tried to save his life. Red was there from the very beginning. He defended Elvis when he was being bullied at school. This was before Elvis became famous. So IMO he wasn't with him for the money. There was no money at the beginning and Red was always there. Unfortunately, Elvis wouldn't listen to anyone. Elvis did it to himself. I loved the guy, I'm still a huge fan. But an addict will do anything to get what they want. Someone should have admitted him to a hospital. Where they could've weened him off the drugs and taken care of his physical ailments at the same time. A good 6 mnths off. Perhaps he would've still been with us. Dr Nick wasn't the only doctor that Elvis had in his pocket. There were others. This still happens to this day... If only he had listened. Maybe if his mom were still alive. But all the perhaps, what ifs and maybes will not bring him back to us. What a waste. Gone so young. 1st Step is to admit you have a problem. Elvis never took that 1st Step.

[@rustywells01]

Well said!!! Thank you for listening to the video!!

[@justbrowsing5963]

***** You're Welcome. It was very interesting. Are there anymore posts from you out there. Would love to watch.

[@juliewashington8052]

Rosie Fuentes and a good woman instead of immature girls who just wanted fur coats and diamond rings

[@beckyharvey2209]

Rosie Fuentes the

[@ymtrott]

They should never of written the book,it was to get back at elvis

[@ChristyRayne]

An invitation to anyone that would like to come... Rustys room is open every night, from 9pm to 11pm EST, USA. This audio was recorded live in Rustys room... we pay tribute to Elvis Presley every night!! Come join us by clicking the link in the description above and downloading the free chat program. Rustys room is called, Rustywells Elvis Memorial Music Room. It is located in the Music/Karaoke-Singing section. Thanks! Hope to see you there!!

[@sandybarr684]

Lets be honest. Writing that book was not going to save Elvis and they knew that. The wrote the book because the were angry and hurt. A TRUE friend would not do that. Look at Ann Margaret. Now thats someone who truely loved him. He chose those guys to be a part of his entourage because he trusted and believed in them. His private life should not have been written in a book for the world to see. I don't care what you say, i real friend who loves you does not do that. I real friend doesn't record their private conversations either.

[@rustywells01]

Thanks for your comment!

[@hallsjuju2400]

Don’t agree with public showing of his dirty laundry. I just can’t buy that it was done in trying to help Elvis.

[@rustywells01]

We’ll all situations of interventions so to speak always seem cruel and like the people are being harsh… yet it comes from a place of love to help the person ultimately!

[@fatimas.h1892]

My heart filled with grif and become painful by listening your talking ....

[@BlueheadlongJourney]

Poor Elvis the book was the end of Elvis.The public did not know about Elvis private life..

[@deanedelsten1114]

he locked himself up in his room to get away from all the leechers and fake friends.. wouldnt you if you were him?

[@lolajoker]

Red, Sonny and Dave weren’t hanging around the house anymore. They had families. They were only around Elvis when he was working (on tour or in Vegas).

[@monikacabadajova6514]

Only fiction. The fact is, they betrayed him The fact is they hurt Elvis, they hurt his daughter. The fact is they did not succeeded in saving his Life, because they were very unhonest. They were gossiping about Elvise 's life, about his marriage, girlfriends, bad mood after his death. They never stopped. If they were friends after his death they would just stop. But they continued making money on him long time after his death with their stories. If this was love, they shoved it in very strange way. It was unrespectful and very unhonest to Elvis, his daughter and his grandchildren.

[@rustywells01]

Monika Cabadajová That’s your opinion!! Thanks for listening!!

[@elaine4415]

This is so true because I was on pain pills as well and I did not want to hear it from anyone but thank god I stoped

[@rustywells01]

Cynthia Brand Thanks for listening to the video!!

[@Str8ShootinLoner81]

Red tried to help..Listen to the facts..I've lost friends from addiction..Screw the money, it's better to help friends..Like Red tried to do.

[@elmo-hy6ww]

It was interesting what he talked about and it's true elvis was dying and maby depressed i think cuz the split and divorce with his wife was hard emotionally he loved her since his army days and seeing his daughter go to different homes with different fathers i don't think he could live like that for the rest on regardless he had rich and fame at his doorstep. .. trust me I've been trough betrayal and divorce and see my daughter and son not see thier daddy as much as before was hell for ... it killed me inside every day so my pain killer was drinking alot to numb my mind and my pain and had no idea that alcohol can kill you physically. .. i was a very sensitive guy back then...so i sympathize with elvis ' action and behavior

[@lindamcneilly7389]

Other did try and talk to him but the real reason they wrote that book was because they were fired and truly pissed about it so they write a book which they knew would be a bestseller paying them a hell of a lot of money.

[@rustywells01]

Linda, I've went over and over this! Yes they got fired and wrote the book but this was one way they had thought of to get through to Elvis long before they were!! As for lots of money...not as much as you think! Thank you for the comment!

[@skeetabix36]

Its great to hear someone who knows what there talking about. I'm a huge Elvis fan & have been for 40 years & it does my head in to keep reading comments from people who don't know shit slagging off Red & Sonny West. The book didn't kill Elvis, Elvis killed Elvis.

[@m.walters4879]

skeetabix36 Indeed!

[@trudygrant1082]

Elvis didn't die in 1977

[@bringbackcommonsense528]

Agreed. I love Elvis but he was human and some of the things that the Col, Joe & Elvis did to Red and Sonny at various times were disgusting and disloyal. Red & Sonny tried everything and this way would have got Elvis the attention needed on the subject to help change. Alas he died before it really could impact.

[@yellowcottagetales]

Kind of hard to argue they published a book telling dirt on Elvis, made money off it, and they were doing it for him .

[@rustywells01]

Yes, this was a extreme intervention of sorts… but based on circumstances it was one of the only ways to try and get Elvis to change his ways so he would not go down the road he did and pass away!

[@frankieelvisbarbieri5495]

This is a very ‘touchy’ subject. As an “Elvis Disciple” my initial reaction was , why they would resort to a book?…Then, back in early 90’s I met and talked to Sonny, and you can’t fake what I witnessed with my own eyes, but there is no doubt in my mind that Sonny and Red really loved Elvis. I don’t like putting the blame on the others either, it’s not right.. At the end, Elvis was not in the righteous state of mind to be confronted, had he been, and was more approachable, he might have not passed away in 1977.

[@rustywells01]

Thanks for the comment

[@holidayeveryday550]

I agree. I think those guys did genuinely care about him. I would guess they felt betrayed themselves after being fired after many years of faithful service.

[@rustywells01]

@@pattynuzzello9035 Again I ask you even if they would have tried something different in hindsight they mostly did it to try and get Elvis to see error of his ways… sure it didn’t work but at least they tried! I still find it funny that Elvis friends and family forgave them because they understood deep down what they tried to do. Why is it the fans can’t get over it? To me it seems the fans are the ones that are entitled to just continue to hate without true understanding and a rightful cause to do so!

[@nenabunena]

Elvis had a drug addiction yes but he didn't die because if it. He died due to his colon issues, he needed surgery. Also fyi, sonny said that he learned from Linda that elvis talked to his father to suspend red and sonny for 3 months and give them enough for those 3 months, but vernon instead fired them and gave them a week's pay. Vernon never liked them actually

[@lilliangilbert4986]

Elvis died of many more complications, he had a heart attack, due to plac in his arteries. People don't understand the complications of eating too much fat. He had high blood pressure, diabetes, glycoma, arterial sclerosis, and couldn't stop working because he had given away his fortune, and he had a payroll to meet. People depended on him. When he died he only had 5 million, and very little in the savings account. It was hard for him to do the same thing over and over. He also had fybromyalgia, that's what I have and it's pain all over your body, just now they are starting to treat it with meds. Read the book " Destined to die young" it explains a lot of the REAL REASONS. U

[@rustywells5385]

Great comment and right on most all accounts...

[@robertbozzelli5393]

He had lots of health issues but to say the drug abuse didn't play the most significant role in his death is disingenuous.

[@chargerman100]

Red West betrayed his best friend. Elvis was a private super star that loved his fans like family. That book did not have to be written to help Elvis, all it did was break his heart. loyalty was so important to Elvis and those body guards betrayed him. Probably what upset me the most in that book was the comments about Elvis's voice. You can see in his last aired concert, how powerful and beautiful his voice was. And yet in that book they talk negatively about his voice. That really pissed me off. There's no way around it. Red knew Elvis all the way back from Elvis's high school days, and for all the things Elvis did for Red and his family, Red's appreciation was a negative portrayed book about his best friend. That book didn't help Elvis in any way, and only broke his heart.

[@rustywells01]

Robert Malerba Thanks for your opinion! I happen to disagree with why the book was written and their intentions! True something's in the book were a bit harsh However the intent was to save Elvis!

[@chargerman100]

rustywells01 Red was close to a life long friend to Elvis. loyalty meant everything to Elvis. you want to help a best friend you do it privately, you don't jeopardize their career and humiliat them publicly. There's no question Red loved Elvis, there's also no question in my mind that money was a factor. but he had the type of relationship with Elvis that he could have pulled him to the side for however long it takes. Once you write a book and put it out there, you've destroyed a man. I beg to differ with your opinion. But respect it. What bothers me the most of all of this is the point that I said, I would love for once to hear Red say I really feel terrible about that. That's what bothers me the most. That's my main point.

[@rustywells01]

Robert Malerba Thanks for your comment!!! Remember Elvis wasn't allowing many to be near him the last year or so!!! Taking Elvis to the side wasn't really going to happen!!! Also Elvis would shut you down as soon as you told him about drug use or that he had a problem!!! Elvis said they are prescribed and he didn't think he had a problem!!! Again thanks for your comment!!! God Bless you!!!

[@daveunknown3799]

If EP was such a lover of red and the others then why did he have his father fire them. in 76. That is not a loyal friend as you call it.

[@chargerman100]

rustywells01 your welcome. it's true in the things I read in his last years he was pulling away from his old crew. And I understand how those guys were loyal to him for all those years and how hard that must have been. But there are reasons for everything. If Elvis was pulling away, just like he was trying to pull away from Colonel Parker, you can bet there were valid reasons. They were fired by Elvis's father for a reason. there's always more to the story. I I just don't think writing a book that's permanent in print was the right thing to do. But to each their own. The most amazing thing of all of this is us still caring and talking about him over 40 years later. he sure left an impact on all of us.

[@rustyruss2962]

I understand Red needed money at time in my heart ❤️ I believe he wishes he didn’t TCB

[@daynewell4709]

Red loved him till the day he died! Nobody could tell ELVIS nothing!

[@rustywells5385]

@@pattynuzzello9035 The main hole in this comment is Red was a song writer and had wrote songs for many artist and was in tv shows and movies...not only because of Elvis either! Red did alright on his own merit! If you listened to the recording of this video I explain why over and over! Again I ask why do you think Cilla and Lisa and the family forgave them but you can't? Elvis fans ...sure were not happy with the book but was it untrue? Didnt Elvis pass away just as they feared? Yes! Red and Sonny and Hebler all cared for Elvis! EPE invited Red and Sonny all the time to talk at Elvis Week and other events! It's time to let your hate and disdain go!

[@MrDarkmenace1]

@@rustywells5385 It's not just time to let their hate and disdain go. It's time to look at things from the points of view of the people around Elvis, and understand why they made the decisions they made. Sonny once said that Elvis was a law unto himself, and wouldn't be told anything he didn't want to hear. If they upset him they could easily find themselves out of the group and from there you can have no influence at all. The first step in solving any problem is to first understand that there is one. Elvis never thought there was one. As far as he was concerned he understood what he was taking fully. Therefore there was no problem.

[@deirdremeade3917]

That's is so true - elvis was on a death wish

[@rustywells01]

Sandra, Thanks for your comments....Why would I have hard feeling....I love and respect Elvis and will Always keep his Memory and Legacy Protected!!! I will always be honest and tell it like it is as well!!! Elvis did that...and so do I!!! God Bless!!!

[@annamariafacchiano1688]

I don't want to hear anything about Red and Sonny west and the other one, whodared to write that book about private life of Elvis that broke his heart. And they dared to say that they wrote that book to help Elvis to take care of his life. They thought that people are stupid? And how could they help him when he was already near to die. They should only stop talking about Elvis and profiting by his name.

[@tytaylor8525]

I'm sooo glad you post this! I actually used to attend Redd WEST ACTORS STUDIO back in '97. He is the most caring encouraging honest man! I really respected him and Pat West... Under Redd's training I moved to Los Angeles did tons of commercials and print and films as well as television. I am truly grateful for him.

[@rustywells01]

Thanks for the comment! Red and Sonny were and still are sadly misunderstood by many Elvis fans!

[@tytaylor8525]

rustywells01 Yes they are... The great ones as well as the most loyal are usually the most misunderstood... Thank you again...

[@rustywells01]

@@tytaylor8525 You are Welcome! They will be missed! God Bless Them and You!

[@onesri6108]

Red and Sunny still alive?

[@lilliangilbert4252]

Why would you go see that trader.

[@angelamay6101]

His cousin Billy smyth said when elvis heard they were writing a book a bout him elvis cryed and said why are they doing this to me I give them everything is it money they want tell them I will give them money look it up

[@rustywells01]

I am well aware of that but there’s later stories too when Elvis realizes it’s a forgone conclusion!

[@cdb989]

Bro you out in left field. Red and sonny and dave were fired in 76 july. The book came out in August 77 don’t forget what friend records a conversation. Why did red do that ? Oh. He wanted to help elvis. Ya right. They only wrote the book because elvis fired them and they wanted revenge. True friends don’t tell the world what elvis did privately.

[@rustywells5385]

I answered over and over the timeline you know by when the book came out and they were fired is not true timeline! They had the idea of writing book for along time! As for them being fired that was mainly because of roughing up the fans and Vernon was cleaning house of the mafia! Do yourself a favor dont always believe the story you have been told! Red and Sonny and Hebler wanted what was best for Elvis and loved him! If Cilla and Lisa and the family can forgive them why can't you? Lol thanks for the comment!

[@cliffkelley6550]

Only one thing is incorrect. Red and Sonny were not fired for trying to wake Elvis up. Red and Sonny was fired first BEFORE they wrote the book.. It was after they were fired tha they decided to write the book. Not the other way around.

[@oldschoolmuddi7686]

R.I.P. Sonny & Red West :-(

[@geminidream61]

Both were pissed off for being fired there is a tape proving it !

[@gambriehewert1677]

He fired them with two weeks wages, they would have taken a bullet for him, they shouldn't have written the book, but elvis didn't treat them right.

[@ballantine58]

Personally.....i think that book killed Elvis. He did not want his personal business for his fans to learn. ( Also the divorce from Cilla. )

[@rustywells01]

Thanks for your comment!

[@alsmut84]

They should have went and got a job and shut up and you keep making excuses for these back stabbers. ..it's all about money shame on you for sticking up for back stabbers

[@rustywells01]

Myfriend, There are KZbin videos of me talking at length about Elvis on many subjects!!! I have a Elvis Tribute room on Paltalk... Called the Rustywells Elvis Memorial Music Room... It's the longest continuously running Elvis tribute room on paltalk!!! I can assure you I know more about Elvis than anyone you can talk too!!! Thanks for listening to this video.. God Bless!!!!

[@Coolhand7]

What is your real name?

[@soulfireonfire6423]

You might really think , that you know more then anyone else. But you weren’t there the night he died. I am here to tell you someone is lying big time! That book was the furthest thing of what an intervention is!

[@rustywells01]

@@soulfireonfire6423 Ok and you were there the night he died? Lol I can assure you when it comes to Elvis there’s not much I do not know… however I’m sure like I said before please enlighten us as to your wisdom

[@clifffor1179]

Some fair points wouldn't blame the book on Elvis death it was a combination of things that led to that. From those who were there at the end with him the book troubled him and he prayed and wondered how he would be recieved by the fans after. We the fans and public didn't know much about him until after he died before the bodyguard book it was all how he presented himself in public. He didn't do hardly any interviews but we do know as Elvis said himself the image is one thing and the human being is another. The private life remained well protected. Values then are very different to what they are today. People today are more understanding of addictions back then much less so. To be seen as out of control and on drugs would be very humiliating for Elvis he had always stood against drugs he had suffered a loss of pride when Priscilla divorced him that sent him down..based on what you know about Elvis do you think he would have driven him further down or up by the revelations ? To me it was all too late. People talk about him being in a rut in the movie era..the real rut was the concert years after Aloha 1973 -77 he had a massive career high with the satellite concert...and was on the treadmill straight back after and had nowhere to go but down.

[@lilliangilbert4986]

He was upset about the book. But, he died of other complications, heart ❤ attack, cuz his arteries had a lot of plac. READ DESTUNED TO DIE YOUNG! IT SAYS MORE REASONS WHY ELVIS DIED.

[@sandralybrand9425]

Elvis was the kind of creative person that had to have new challenges. Whenever he had a new challenge he got himself in shape layed off the drugs except what he needed for his ailments,and threw himself into whatever that new challenge was. That's why he really needed a different manager. He was making plans to change his life after the upcoming tour. He was going to get rid of a lot of people and take time time off and get himself healthy and go on a gospel tour. Sadly, it was too late. He'd hinted he was getting rid of Parker also.

[@tracy6756]

Everyone else made a book years later on Elvis about thier own selfish experiences yet Red and Sonny are the bad guys for trying to get through to Elvis whilst he is still alive also knowing how much Elvis read books too so perfect way to express worries? How does that work? How is that making them the bad guys? It's not rocket science is it.......

[@barneymiller844]

If they weren’t fired then there is no book

[@rustywells01]

Thats actually not true!! They were going to do something to try and save Elvis! This is just the way they tried!

[@janetcoombes8483]

By August 1977 Elvis was too I’ll too weary too depressed to make any sort of sensible decisions Only one person could have made the decision that he might have heeded and that was Colonel Parker He could have ordered a years rest and a proper medical assessment and treatment. I think Elvis would have taken this from him. The trouble being that Colonel Parker had such gambling debts that he needed Elvis to keep on working. I have never blamed Red and Sonny who were good and loyal friends over many many years

[@rustywells01]

Good comment!

[@marktcgb]

In life, we make decisions that affect us daily.

[@lesleywild8706]

Elvis did everything to excess - he lived his life to the full - and it ended too soon. But he did it his way? He had a very controlling personality and if you have ever lived with someone like this you will know exactly what I mean, with him as your boss in an enclosed environment, you would be OUT if you disagreed with his life-style!

[@rustywells01]

We’ll said!

[@khanbibi]

elvis and my dad were the same age i remember i was almost 13 when elvis passed away and everyone was in tears i would not be surprised that they all tried to talk to elvis to get him to stop taking so many pills etc i am not blaming red at all whatsoever

[@rustywells01]

+khanbibi Thanks for listening to the video!!! God Bless You!!!

[@khanbibi]

+rustywells01 thank you

[@hirskdubbi]

+rustywells01 i know they broke Elvis heart and may have ;possibly;caused him to overdose..

[@rustywells01]

Sandra, I do think you Are Right about a lot of what you are saying and maybe a lot of friends and family should have done more sooner...But really until say 74 or so on Elvis Behavior and actions would not have Merited a lot of intervention!!! Elvis was in control and doing proper things in a proper way!!! It was in the later years where Red and Sonny and others were noticing a more radical life style....even More so than his normal life style!!! Elvis did like friends and family around.....Yes.....And a softer approach may have been better earlier...however at that late time....A Intervention so to speak...IS what Elvis Needed!!! Thanks For your Comments!!!

[@mauriciocampos3519]

It´s very difficult to judge people even when we know them.

[@Nick-gi6ym]

Let’s be real the book did more harm than good. If anyone thinks the book was hope for Elvis think again it wasn’t. They failed as body guards to save Elvis they failed with the book. without Elvis they were desperate. Desperate folks do desperate things.

[@rustywells01]

Nick Freyermuth This is about whether what they did worked or even if they deep down would have done it again if I given a a chance not to have wrote it!! It’s fair to say it didn’t work... you say it did more harm than good so to speak... hindsight says it may have... however the real harm is not to try!!! The harm is to sit back and try nothing like most everyone around him and most people with addictions do!!! It’s easy to be their friend and never set your friend straight and then see one day you can tell them how much they meant to you when your looking over their coffin!! See I would much rather have a friend who is willing to say the hard to say things to me or be willing to piss me off and be honest and maybe even lose me as a friend to save my life!!! How many people you know of have have said it’s a shame that person or this person died... it’s a shame nobody tried to save them from themselves!! Now you fault those that tried... even if their way don’t match yours and even if in hindsight they may not have done it same way... at least they tried... that’s more than I can say for most self righteous hypocrites who are only self serving in this world!!! Lastly they didn’t fail as body guards!! Elvis was never harmed in anyway!! You can say what you like... but as body guards they served him well!! Thanks for your comment!!

[@randyharris3175]

They put a lot of shit in that book that was pretty vengeful what's that got to do with helping somebody

[@peter5807]

The publisher added alot of fake shit to help sell more books.

[@rustywells01]

Cards, Thank You for the Comment!!! If you get a chance come to my Paltalk room....God Bless You!!!

[@rustywells01]

Sandra, Thank You for your comment....This video is about that ...yes...but its also about the fact that Elvis was surrounded by people some who were friends but almost all who were to afraid to lose the gravy train Elvis supported them with and make the hard choice to be Elvis TRUE Friend and do Whatever they Had To Do to Save Elvis....No Matter What!!!! Red and Sonny did that!!!! To this day almost 4 decades later Red Is Still out their defending Elvis and speaking well of Elvis....Red and Sonny both care and Love Elvis and I for one wont sit back and allow them and their name to be ran through the mud when they were a few of the only people out there that actually tried to help and Save Elvis!!!! I may not agree that the book was all good....it was in their minds at that time and being desperate to Save Elvis the only way they thought they could get through to Elvis and wake him up to the fact the road he was going down could take Him Down..sadly!!! But da-n it....At least they tried to have a intervention so to speak and Help Elvis!!! I will always respect and Love Elvis The man the performer for his generosity...his Talent and being a All around Great guy...I however Like Red and sonny would also do and say whatever I need to to Help Elvis be honest with and to make sure He is remembered respected and he is fine!!!!

[@tommypetersen2540]

I love this!! I was an addict ( I guess I always will be in that sense) and I know that "mollycoddling" would and did not help me at all. If Red and Sonny had written the book as a glowing "sunshine and rainbows" account it may have just made Elvis feel even more invincible. Red and Sonny ( and really all of his inner circle) did everything they could to help him. Here in Canada we have limited treatment programs so it is not so easy to get help. Imagine what THAT was like in 1977!? Going into rehab was not as socially acceptable as it is today. I felt like I was on an island, how did then Elvis feel!? People come down on Sonny and Red for writing the book for money (Red has admitted that he was broke at the time) and that they were bitter.....well yeah! As addicts we put our loved ones through hell and I still have people who are glad I'm better but in no way am I totally forgiven. I love Elvis and always will, but for people to deny that he had issues, or that any of "his guys" did not really care for him are denying themselves the ability to look at this great moment in music history with an open mind and not really understanding that they were all flesh and blood people, not just names you see in the gossip rags. Love this post, love the candor, love the true sense of perspective while still respecting all parties involved. Well done!

[@lucypresley4745]

Tommy Petersen Me too Tom...I also am a prescription pill addict. am in recovery, but I was very very stubborn so , drastic means was used on me as tough love by people who loved me and being how I was so hard headed, it took several attempts to get through to me! I understand Elvis's denial, but understand Red West's desperation to do what he had to do to save him!

[@tommypetersen2540]

lucy presley glad you are doing well! Before I was in recovery I used to think Red and Sonny were slime, after finally facing my demons I only wish that I had friends like Sonny and Red. They had to give hard and honest love to a man who literally had millions of people ready to defend him. Through time their anger and bitterness has healed but they have always stood by their actions, and as history has shown they were right in being worried for their boss and friend. Addiction is nasty business, we addicts leave a trail of wreckage that sometimes can never be healed. I myself have to live with that. Not everyone is willing to forgive ( they have that right) all we can do is forgive ourselves and do our best to move on.

[@janiepage3576]

I understand that Elvis had a problem with meds from drs. I also understand if they wanted help. I will always love that unique gift of God. And no matter what I pray he will be in heaven. He loved. He was too generous. Is all too sad. I can tell you it is hard to stop prescription medications. A dr has to be the legal profession. But was the times also. Elvis loved but he was human. He had jumped into stardom so fast. He lost freedom and trust. I pray Red and Sonny made peace. I pray was done for to help. Times different now. Just love that voice and that young happy Elvis.

[@aronpresley9480]

Truth is what I live by and this here what I heard I believe to be true.Great video and thanks for telling us the way it really was.

[@rustywells01]

+Aron Presley Thanks for your comment!!!

[@bobbymunoz5086]

The way I see it's a 50/50 fault split..These guys committed to Elvis and gave him their best years with no pension or retirement at the end..These are grown men knowing this...but yet wanted to live that addicting lifestyle. Okay now Elvis is set for life and by the snap of his fingers these guys are gone knowing that they had nothing else but him.. did Elvis have a conscience that these guys and their families depended on him who knows..Im sure he did... alot of pressure knowing people depend on u financially..But clearly these men had one hell of a ride together through the years and did not bother to think or plan where their lives would be 20 plus years later..GOOD THINGS DONT LAST FOREVER!!!

[@rustywells01]

Ronnie, None of the guys were Jealous of Elvis....They knew He was special and they appreciated what he did for them!!!! There was Nothing to be jealous of....Everyone Knew Elvis was The Guy so to speak!!!!

[@tammiadams4001]

Red West did it out of spite, did it for the money, Red knew Elvis's days were limited as did others. The fact Red recorded conversations or a conversation with Elvis, how deceitful is that? Elvis did not blackball anyone. Red is lucky he was never sued. Charlie Hodge only mentioned after the death of both Elvis and his fathers that Elvis was suffering from bone cancer while Elvis had other health problems. Was Elvis addicted to prescription drugs? of course he was. Elvis was the product, without Elvis there was no product. The demand for Elvis to produce was enormous. No one had a payday unless he produced. Elvis was employment for hundreds of people. If Red West didn't make a fortune from the book that speaks volumes on what his fans thought of his actions.

[@rustywells01]

Sandra, his hair was his hair and his side burns were his... Lol!! Elvis was a Great person.. He made mistakes like we all do and he did get depressed at times... Yes... But he did enjoy life and being around his fans... He was still full of life even at the end!!! He simply wanted to know from a higher power... Why was he who he was and what was he supposed to be doing to serve God the Best he could!!! Elvis was trying to find out his meaning of life!!! He thought at the end there has to be more.... What could he do?? So to speak... Like I said Elvis Always wanted to Live and entertain his fans... And be a great father to Lisa!!

[@caprice8770]

I have a theory about those West cousins.. but will not go into it, except to say..they did what they had to do.

[@darranmartin7489]

You dont as friends write a book your friend to take away his dignity. They were there for the good times and as grown men should have moved on. Elvis was human and made mistakes, the after effects to day are been felt just look at Lisa they put all this dirt out and you cant tell me it hasn't affected her or her family. Red, Sonny and Dave were GROWN men. Red even phoned Elvis and recorded the conversation to try and trip him up, that is low.

[@rustywells01]

Thanks for listening and your comment!

[@raytaylor530]

I admire and respect all of the people that worked and tried.To Lil Bit of Angel.Thank You for providing more history into the life and the times of these fantastic people.I use to listen to Elvis on board a Bomber with my cassette player over North Viet-Nam and found solice.I thank all of you for trying to do your job and trying to protect Elvis.I did hear the stories about the meds he took and even having his own PDR for referencing meds,you guys did the utmost in trying to protect,it was difficult.Went back became an MD after being a pilot and saw what drugs did to so many of my patients,there is no way,unless you want to quit.Ray the Pilot,USAF,ret.M.D.

[@rustywells01]

Deboisblanc, I know it sold 3 million copies because when he passed everyone started buying it up... Plus there was a interest in why he passed so young!!! However like I said in my last comment... Sales of something doesn't always equal $... After they paid all fees and expenses and other cost to produce the book... Their take didn't make them rich..., also keep in mind if Elvis hadn't passed the book wouldn't have sold nearly as well... It sold to people after Elvis passed who were just collecting all things Elvis and some didn't even read it!!! I do know what I speak of when it comes to Elvis!!! Thanks for your comments!!!

[@KitKat-dx6mt]

If all the friends came together and confronted Elvis not one or two at a time

[@rustywells01]

Tommy, Thanks So Much for your Comment!!!! God Bless You!!!

[@ChristyRayne]

Lois... Um well, probably because he was Elvis. The problem today is that drugs are everywhere... I doubt there is anyone alive that doesn't at least know someone that is dependent or has been dependent on drugs, prescription medications... countless other things. When Elvis was in trouble with the medications... No one really understood the problem then. The medications he took were prescriptions. There really wasn't a set standard then on how to deal or handle dependencies and addictions. In a way... Elvis and many many others paved the way to wake the world up to their dangers... and that the problem does touch everyone. From the celebrities, to the homeless... sadly.

[@randallanthony1794]

Mind own affairs.you buy into war on drugs guess what it does more damang to america than the drugs do.