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Topic: Larry Geller Interview | |
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Aloha-1973 Newbie Joined: 04 Jun 2007 Location: Netherlands Online Status: Offline Posts: 38 |
Topic: Larry Geller Interview Posted: 18 Feb 2008 at 12:12pm |
From 1964 until the very final days Larry Geller was a close friend to Elvis. Perhaps Elvis might have even lived longer had he paid more attention to Geller's healthy life-style and managed to shake off the demands of Colonel Parker. Elvis fans often send questions to EIN for us to pass onto Larry Geller but with the 30th Anniversary fast approaching, Larry was kind enough to answer a lot of the questions, and to also tell us something about his new book. Larry Geller has multiple projects happening at this very moment, so EIN extends its sincere thanks to him for sparing us the time for this interview.
LG - I'm so glad you asked, as I'm going forward with several exciting projects right now! It will feature my new book - the one I've been working on the past few years - the culmination of all that I've written about Elvis over the years. EIN - A lot of Elvis fans are always interested in the "other side" of Elvis, if I can call it that. LG - You are right but in this book everyone will be able to read more about many private conversations along these lines and other important subjects, with quotes and passages from some of his favorite books, which will shed an intimate and revealing light on Elvis' inner life. So 'Leaves of Elvis' Garden' is not a conventional Elvis book, another version of the story that's been told again and again. But back to your original question about my other book; Healthy Life, Great Looks, Healthy Hair!. EIN- As you know I often get fan questions via the website that I have forwarded to you. LG - I did realise that fact - and so I should mention that on my web site there will be an 'ask Larry Geller' page, where I will answer questions submitted by Elvis fans. In fact I just realized what the date is today. EIN - What is your relationship with Priscilla and EPE now?
EIN - What did you think of the documentary 'Elvis By the Presleys'. LG - I liked the documentary, especially the film footage. EIN - Do you go back to Memphis each year? LG - I go to Memphis every few years in August for Elvis week. EIN - Fans have often asked where was your accommodation when you lived at Graceland? LG - Elvis gave me the room downstairs off from the jungle room. EIN - How much were you involved in the creation of Elvis' Meditation Garden?
Within that first year of my working with Elvis, everyone in the group began speaking about "the big change." Elvis and I had many discussions about a Meditation Garden, and my influence was key in this regard. EIN - What does it feel like going back to the Meditation Garden & do you ever get to spend time there on your own?
A few times I've been there by myself - but never alone.
LG - Just recently I was asked to be part of a major ABC network prime special about Elvis with Jerry Schilling. EIN - Fans often ask us if anyone can confirm that Elvis really asked Ginger Alden to marry her?
Right after the ceremony that took place in Charlie Hodge's large rustic bedroom, Elvis asked Ginger and me to follow him into his bedroom. Ginger of course said "yes".
LG - In my heart of hearts, I knew Elvis would never marry Ginger. Ginger was a very nice person. |
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Aloha-1973 Newbie Joined: 04 Jun 2007 Location: Netherlands Online Status: Offline Posts: 38 |
Posted: 18 Feb 2008 at 12:16pm |
EIN - A fan asks if Elvis ever used curse words as she didn't think it was in his nature? LG - I've heard this before, and these stories stem from sources that have blown this subject out of proportion. Elvis was a super sensitive person, a true artist, but those around him didn't share in those sensitivities. Believe me, Elvis was far more intelligent and insightful than those around him. EIN - What are your feelings about other members of Elvis' group - Do you stay in touch with the "Memphis Mafia"? LG - Those of us who were part of Elvis' life shared something extremely personal and historical; we are in a uniquely special group. I want to say here that for any question that deals with my opinion or feelings about the many people associated with Elvis, that this is something I just don't do. EIN - Everyone was very sad that Charlie Hodge died last year, when did you last talk with him? LG - Thankfully Charlie and I kept in touch over the years. EIN - A fans asks why is the reason that you left Elvis after the Clambake incident - i.e. Elvis' increase in spiritual interest and the Colonel's dislike of it - rarely mentioned in official biographies of Elvis? LG - Like it says in Kenny Rodger's, "You got to know when to hold them, an' know when to fold them." As it turned out we were re-united, and our bond only grew stronger over the next five years until his passing. To more specifically answer your question: How could anyone else really tackle this subject? EIN - It is so common now for Superstars to go to drying-out clinics and health farms. LG - This is a huge subject. "In the last few years of Elvis life, he increasingly suffered from a host of debilitating health conditions, and his state of health became a source of distress and continual conversation between us. As his physical and emotional pain increased, he often said to me, "The spirit is willing, Lawrence, but the flesh is weak." Approaching the breaking point, Elvis was determined to fight for and transform his life. Many times during the closing months of his life we explored ways for him to take on the task of transforming his body and revitalizing his spirit. The idea of kicking back and relaxing, finally cutting out junk foods and getting off "all those **** pills they give me" really inspired him, lifting him from the boredom and the rut he had fallen into. He was looking forward to his rejuvenating "sabbatical." And there were other changes afoot. EIN - As Elvis' hairdresser and close personal friend, what do you think was your most important contribution to Elvis' life? LG - Being a true friend to the best of my ability. EIN - Larry we have never talked before about Elvis and these strange stories of his alleged racism.
I remember once that he told me, '"Negroes have more soul in one finger than most whites have in their whole body." EIN - The Osmonds are now saying that Elvis studied the Book of Mormon and they are making a movie about it.
It's been also been bandied about that some of these 'Mormon people' have claimed that Elvis was planning on becoming a Mormon, and joining the church of Mormon. EIN - Before we wrap up can you share one story with us that reveals what Elvis was like, that perhaps gives an insight to his way of thinking and the way he talked with you?
"Man, you cant believe what I was goin through back then. Elvis shook his head incredulously. Elvis became very quiet, lost in his memories. Elvis looked at me intently. EIN - Thank you so much for talking with us Larry. |
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Wouter Groupie Joined: 26 Feb 2007 Location: Netherlands Online Status: Offline Posts: 87 |
Posted: 03 Mar 2008 at 1:09pm |
Excellent! Thanks so much for sharing!
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ricobpro Groupie Joined: 14 Oct 2007 Location: Philippines Online Status: Offline Posts: 94 |
Posted: 04 Mar 2008 at 7:58am |
Thanks for sharing, fantastic item
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There is power in quality than quantity
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elvislady Newbie Joined: 10 Mar 2009 Location: United Kingdom Online Status: Offline Posts: 5 |
Posted: 10 Mar 2009 at 9:07pm |
This was a great read thanks.
elvislady |
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elvistuna Newbie Joined: 21 Feb 2009 Location: Turkey Online Status: Offline Posts: 3 |
Posted: 11 May 2009 at 12:48pm |
ELVIS Rabıta yapıyor.
Edited by elvistuna - 11 May 2009 at 12:48pm |
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ElvisCollector Newbie Joined: 03 Jul 2008 Location: United States Online Status: Offline Posts: 20 |
Posted: 12 May 2009 at 5:27am |
Larry Geller is a WONDERFUL human being, man, and Elvis "source" who befriended Elvis throughout many "trials and tribulations".
Having been an Elvis Fan, and fortunate to have one of the largest Elvis Collections in the World, I have always been amazed/impressed about several of the "tried and true" friends of Elvis...Larry Geller included.
I APPLAUD anything that Larry Geller does, personally and professionally, and I thank ElvisFind.com for it's undying commitment to Elvis excellence.
Take care and God bless.
Jeff Schrembs
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Elvis photos, Elvis memorabilia, Elvis rare items, by Jeffrey Schrembs
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