Some of Elvis Presley’s closest friends were members of his entourage. They traveled with him, served as bodyguards, and assisted him in times of need. In return, Elvis paid them and showered them with lavish gifts. While one of his longtime friends said this was a benefit of knowing Elvis, it was also something of a curse.
Elvis’ friend said the singer was both a blessing and a curse to know
Elvis watched a good deal of television in his lifetime. One of his favorite programs was a show called The Millionaire.
“Elvis was crazy about a TV show … called The Millionaire,” his friend Joe Esposito said, per the book Careless Love: The Unmaking of Elvis Presley by Peter Guralnick. “Each week an ordinary person with a problem answered a knock at his door to find a messenger in a suit who announced that he was presenting the person...
Elvis’ friend said the singer was both a blessing and a curse to know
Elvis watched a good deal of television in his lifetime. One of his favorite programs was a show called The Millionaire.
“Elvis was crazy about a TV show … called The Millionaire,” his friend Joe Esposito said, per the book Careless Love: The Unmaking of Elvis Presley by Peter Guralnick. “Each week an ordinary person with a problem answered a knock at his door to find a messenger in a suit who announced that he was presenting the person...
- 5/24/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In 1975, Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band put on their first concert in England. The show, which was filmed and would go on to become a live album, was not a pleasant one for Springsteen. He was nervous about the show, and the way the theater welcomed him did not help. He shared why the celebratory way the venue advertised the show infuriated him.
Bruce Springsteen was not happy ahead of an early concert
When Springsteen arrived at the Hammersmith Odeon theater in England, he winced at the way the venue advertised his act.
“As we pulled up to the outside, the brightly lit marquis reads, ‘Finally!! London Is Ready For Bruce Springsteen.’ Reflecting, this is not exactly the tone I’d have preferred been struck,” he wrote in his book Born to Run. “It feels, perhaps, a little too … presumptuous? Once I am inside I am greeted by...
Bruce Springsteen was not happy ahead of an early concert
When Springsteen arrived at the Hammersmith Odeon theater in England, he winced at the way the venue advertised his act.
“As we pulled up to the outside, the brightly lit marquis reads, ‘Finally!! London Is Ready For Bruce Springsteen.’ Reflecting, this is not exactly the tone I’d have preferred been struck,” he wrote in his book Born to Run. “It feels, perhaps, a little too … presumptuous? Once I am inside I am greeted by...
- 5/20/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
For years, Dolly Parton has favored gravity-defying hairstyles that are only possible through her extensive collection of wigs. Parton has spoken openly about her fondness for wigs and rarely steps out without one on. One of her former co-workers recalled Parton donning wigs in radio and television appearances when she was quite young.
Dolly Parton’s coworker recalled her wearing wigs from a young age
When Parton was ten years old, she began making appearances on Cas Walker’s Farm and Home Hour. This was a professional music gig, and Parton threw herself into her work. Even from an early age, she displayed some of the glittering showmanship that made her famous in adulthood. She wore eye-catching dresses, makeup, and, according to one musician on the show, wigs.
“She was always hep on wigs,” banjo player Bud Brewster said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “She wore wigs — I mean,...
Dolly Parton’s coworker recalled her wearing wigs from a young age
When Parton was ten years old, she began making appearances on Cas Walker’s Farm and Home Hour. This was a professional music gig, and Parton threw herself into her work. Even from an early age, she displayed some of the glittering showmanship that made her famous in adulthood. She wore eye-catching dresses, makeup, and, according to one musician on the show, wigs.
“She was always hep on wigs,” banjo player Bud Brewster said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash. “She wore wigs — I mean,...
- 5/20/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Bruce Springsteen normalized three-hour-long concerts and has seemed to come alive onstage for decades. He has spoken about the way live performance invigorates him, but he said one show was a bit too much. While Springsteen was still early in his career, he played a show in London. He said he went into it in a terrible headspace.
Bruce Springsteen found a concert extremely stressful
In 1975, Springsteen and the E Street Band traveled to London as part of the Born to Run tour. Immediately upon arriving at the Hammersmith Odeon theater, Springsteen began to feel uncomfortable.
“As we pulled up to the outside, the brightly lit marquis reads, ‘Finally!! London Is Ready For Bruce Springsteen.’ Reflecting, this is not exactly the tone I’d have preferred been struck,” he wrote in his book Born to Run. “It feels, perhaps, a little too … presumptuous? Once I am inside I am greeted...
Bruce Springsteen found a concert extremely stressful
In 1975, Springsteen and the E Street Band traveled to London as part of the Born to Run tour. Immediately upon arriving at the Hammersmith Odeon theater, Springsteen began to feel uncomfortable.
“As we pulled up to the outside, the brightly lit marquis reads, ‘Finally!! London Is Ready For Bruce Springsteen.’ Reflecting, this is not exactly the tone I’d have preferred been struck,” he wrote in his book Born to Run. “It feels, perhaps, a little too … presumptuous? Once I am inside I am greeted...
- 5/18/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton and her husband, Carl Dean, have been together for decades. While they seem like an unlikely pair — she embraces the spotlight while he shirks it — they work well together. Parton has spoken highly about her husband over the years, but the public rarely sees him. Her guitarist shared why he thinks Dean was such a good match for the singer.
Dolly Parton’s husband was a good match for her
Though the public does not see much of Dean, the people in Parton’s life do. Her guitarist, Don Roth, got to know Dean well as he met with the band on the road over the years. According to Roth, Parton appreciated the stability Dean brought to her life. He supported her life as a musician and was always home waiting for her when she returned from tour.
Dolly Parton | David Redfern/Redferns
Roth also believed that Dean...
Dolly Parton’s husband was a good match for her
Though the public does not see much of Dean, the people in Parton’s life do. Her guitarist, Don Roth, got to know Dean well as he met with the band on the road over the years. According to Roth, Parton appreciated the stability Dean brought to her life. He supported her life as a musician and was always home waiting for her when she returned from tour.
Dolly Parton | David Redfern/Redferns
Roth also believed that Dean...
- 5/14/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton and her husband, Carl Dean, have been together for decades. Parton has spent a good deal of their married years on the road, touring and making movies. Many people have hardly even seen Dean, let alone witnessed the couple together. One of the people who has, Parton’s former guitarist Don Roth, shared why he thought they were a perfect pair.
Dolly Parton cracked a joke to her band when her husband visited
After attending an industry event with Parton, Dean informed her that he didn’t want to be a part of her life in show business. Still, he would visit her when she had shows within driving distance of their home.
“When we’d be playing some place, like in Missouri, he’d drive up and Dolly would jump off the bus when she saw the car there,” Roth said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash.
Dolly Parton cracked a joke to her band when her husband visited
After attending an industry event with Parton, Dean informed her that he didn’t want to be a part of her life in show business. Still, he would visit her when she had shows within driving distance of their home.
“When we’d be playing some place, like in Missouri, he’d drive up and Dolly would jump off the bus when she saw the car there,” Roth said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash.
- 5/12/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
As Dolly Parton’s career advanced, she took on new management. They helped her cross over from a strictly country crowd to more mainstream fans. Undoubtedly, her new manager helped boost her career. Still, her friends and family weren’t sure what to make of the change in Parton’s life. They believed her new management team brought her away from her roots.
Dolly Parton’s loved ones believed she had changed because of her new management
In 1977, Parton traveled to Sevierville, Tennessee, for their celebration of Dolly Parton Day. She greeted the crowd and chatted happily with people from school. While she was perfectly friendly, some attendees felt Parton had changed. She had a security team with her and left quickly after the show.
“I think by far there were more comments about it this time than ever before,” her school principal, Jack McMahan, said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash.
Dolly Parton’s loved ones believed she had changed because of her new management
In 1977, Parton traveled to Sevierville, Tennessee, for their celebration of Dolly Parton Day. She greeted the crowd and chatted happily with people from school. While she was perfectly friendly, some attendees felt Parton had changed. She had a security team with her and left quickly after the show.
“I think by far there were more comments about it this time than ever before,” her school principal, Jack McMahan, said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash.
- 5/10/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton cracks jokes and laughs so often that it isn’t out of the ordinary to hear her giggle on her records. She is quick to poke fun at herself and is happy to banter with interviewers whenever she gets the chance. There are some types of humor that Parton does not like, though. Her guitarist said Parton would cringe whenever she heard one.
Dolly Parton didn’t appreciate jokes about religion
Guitarist Don Roth traveled with Parton on tour and got to know her well. She was generally playful, but there were some forms of humor she would not tolerate. He learned this when he made a joke in front of her.
“I’m relatively sacrilegious and would make Easter jokes about Jesus turning water into wine by palming a grape fizzy, and she would just cringe and say, ‘Oh, please, Don, don’t,’” he said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash.
Dolly Parton didn’t appreciate jokes about religion
Guitarist Don Roth traveled with Parton on tour and got to know her well. She was generally playful, but there were some forms of humor she would not tolerate. He learned this when he made a joke in front of her.
“I’m relatively sacrilegious and would make Easter jokes about Jesus turning water into wine by palming a grape fizzy, and she would just cringe and say, ‘Oh, please, Don, don’t,’” he said in the book Dolly by Alanna Nash.
- 5/9/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In 1983, Dolly Parton nervously prepared for a concert special in England. She was incredibly concerned ahead of the show as she wasn’t sure how the audience would react to her. Her audience’s perception of her outfit became the least of her worries, though. Just before she was meant to start the show, she heard news of a bomb threat to the theater. Here’s how Parton reacted.
Dolly Parton learned of a bomb threat shortly before a concert
Parton filmed a 1983 HBO special at the Old Dominion Theater in London. She spent time before the concert fretting about her audience. She wasn’t sure how they would react to “the big, overblown, oversequined cartoon of a woman who was about to stand before them,” (per Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business).
As she worried about getting heckled, she received even more troubling news. Scotland Yard received a bomb threat,...
Dolly Parton learned of a bomb threat shortly before a concert
Parton filmed a 1983 HBO special at the Old Dominion Theater in London. She spent time before the concert fretting about her audience. She wasn’t sure how they would react to “the big, overblown, oversequined cartoon of a woman who was about to stand before them,” (per Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business).
As she worried about getting heckled, she received even more troubling news. Scotland Yard received a bomb threat,...
- 4/23/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Even Dolly Parton gets jitters ahead of shows. As she prepared to play a concert in England, she felt increasingly concerned that she wouldn’t go over well with the crowd. Parton worried the crowd would turn their nose at her appearance and performance.
Dolly Parton wasn’t sure a show in England would go well
In 1983, Parton put on a special for HBO at the Old Dominion Theater in London. She was incredibly nervous ahead of the performance.
“At first it looked as if the entire event would turn out to be a disaster. I knew that the British people had heard my songs on the radio and on records but didn’t really know what I looked like,” she wrote in her book Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business, adding, “I always thought of England as very proper and conservative. I didn’t know how they would react to the big,...
Dolly Parton wasn’t sure a show in England would go well
In 1983, Parton put on a special for HBO at the Old Dominion Theater in London. She was incredibly nervous ahead of the performance.
“At first it looked as if the entire event would turn out to be a disaster. I knew that the British people had heard my songs on the radio and on records but didn’t really know what I looked like,” she wrote in her book Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business, adding, “I always thought of England as very proper and conservative. I didn’t know how they would react to the big,...
- 4/20/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
When Dolly Parton’s close friend told her he was getting married, she celebrated by taking him on a vacation to Europe. She said they had the time of their lives on their trip, sightseeing, eating good food, and listening to music. One night, they went to the opera, where Parton worried her behavior would bring judgment from other attendees.
Dolly Parton worried about the way she’d seem at the opera
One night during their trip, Parton and her friend, Bob Hunka, went to the opera. She said she stood out in the crowd.
“The opera house, those highfalutin’ people in all of their finery, it was almost overwhelming to me,” she wrote in her book Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business. “I know Bob must have been a little embarrassed to take me there in my gaudy, tasteless outfit, but if he was, he didn’t say anything.
Dolly Parton worried about the way she’d seem at the opera
One night during their trip, Parton and her friend, Bob Hunka, went to the opera. She said she stood out in the crowd.
“The opera house, those highfalutin’ people in all of their finery, it was almost overwhelming to me,” she wrote in her book Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business. “I know Bob must have been a little embarrassed to take me there in my gaudy, tasteless outfit, but if he was, he didn’t say anything.
- 4/17/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
David Beckham took to Instagram to share the sweetest birthday wishes to his wife of 24 years, Victoria Beckham. The former Spice Girl and British fashion designer celebrates her 50th birthday today, April 17, 2024. It’s hard to believe the stylish, svelte, multi-hyphenate celeb is turning the big 5-0. But this mother of three has celebrated a decades-long career in the public eye. See Victoria Beckham’s most iconic looks and moments as we travel back in time.
Victoria Adams, later Beckham, aka Posh Spice of the Spice Girls, in 1996; the Spice Girls at the 1997 MTV Video Music Awards | Tim Roney/Getty Images; Victor Malafronte/Hulton Archive/Getty Images
On April 17, 1974, Victoria was born in Harlow, Essex, England, and grew up in Goffs Oak, Hertfordshire. The 1980 musical movie Fame inspired her to pursue a music career, according to Biography. She studied acting and modeling, eventually joining a band, Persuasion.
Victoria Beckham, Geri Halliwell,...
Victoria Adams, later Beckham, aka Posh Spice of the Spice Girls, in 1996; the Spice Girls at the 1997 MTV Video Music Awards | Tim Roney/Getty Images; Victor Malafronte/Hulton Archive/Getty Images
On April 17, 1974, Victoria was born in Harlow, Essex, England, and grew up in Goffs Oak, Hertfordshire. The 1980 musical movie Fame inspired her to pursue a music career, according to Biography. She studied acting and modeling, eventually joining a band, Persuasion.
Victoria Beckham, Geri Halliwell,...
- 4/17/2024
- by Ali Hicks
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley was only married once, but he had many romantic partners in his lifetime. His entourage sought out women for him after shows, and he often pursued his co-stars. When looking for a romantic partner, Elvis wanted to avoid women with one physical characteristic.
Elvis avoided romantic partners with a specific physical trait
As Elvis’ entourage sought out women to set him up with, they became well acquainted with the singer’s type. He preferred petite, feminine brunettes, much like Priscilla Presley. Elvis’ desire for a smaller woman meant he specifically avoided partners with large feet.
“He likes them about five foot four, five foot five, and there is one thing that really turns him off and that is chicks with big feet,” bodyguard Sonny West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy.
Elvis Presley | Steve Morley/Redferns
Elvis believed big feet did not fit into...
Elvis avoided romantic partners with a specific physical trait
As Elvis’ entourage sought out women to set him up with, they became well acquainted with the singer’s type. He preferred petite, feminine brunettes, much like Priscilla Presley. Elvis’ desire for a smaller woman meant he specifically avoided partners with large feet.
“He likes them about five foot four, five foot five, and there is one thing that really turns him off and that is chicks with big feet,” bodyguard Sonny West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy.
Elvis Presley | Steve Morley/Redferns
Elvis believed big feet did not fit into...
- 4/13/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton and her best friend, Judy Ogle, have known each other for most of their lives. Parton sees Ogle as family and is protective over her. Because of this, she found it difficult to watch as Ogle became involved with a possessive partner. Parton shared why their friendship became a point of issue in Ogle’s relationship.
Dolly Parton said her best friend’s partner was jealous of their friendship
In the 1980s, Parton began spending more time in Los Angeles to work on her blooming film career. Ogle followed her to the city, renting an apartment next door to Parton. She lived with her partner, who had recently gotten out of the army.
“Judy’s lover had gotten out of the army by now, and they moved in together in an apartment next to mine,” Parton wrote in her book Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business. “It...
Dolly Parton said her best friend’s partner was jealous of their friendship
In the 1980s, Parton began spending more time in Los Angeles to work on her blooming film career. Ogle followed her to the city, renting an apartment next door to Parton. She lived with her partner, who had recently gotten out of the army.
“Judy’s lover had gotten out of the army by now, and they moved in together in an apartment next to mine,” Parton wrote in her book Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business. “It...
- 4/13/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley did not have a normal life in any sense of the word. He rose to unprecedented levels of fame in his twenties and maintained an army of dedicated fans for the entirety of his life. While this sometimes felt uncomfortable for him — he struggled to find any amount of privacy — Elvis thought of himself as greater than most people. His bodyguard said Elvis saw himself as superhuman.
Elvis Presley tried to elevate himself above normal humans
Elvis long claimed an ability to heal with his touch. While his bodyguard, Dave Hebler, thought Elvis genuinely wanted to help people, he thought the singer also wanted to think of himself as special.
“I think he sincerely wanted to heal someone’s pain. But at the same time he was trying to elevate himself above ordinary humans,” Hebler said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “He sort of had this superman complex.
Elvis Presley tried to elevate himself above normal humans
Elvis long claimed an ability to heal with his touch. While his bodyguard, Dave Hebler, thought Elvis genuinely wanted to help people, he thought the singer also wanted to think of himself as special.
“I think he sincerely wanted to heal someone’s pain. But at the same time he was trying to elevate himself above ordinary humans,” Hebler said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “He sort of had this superman complex.
- 4/7/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton has always described her husband as handsome, and Jane Fonda apparently agrees. While they were on set for Nine to Five, Parton’s husband, Carl Dean, dropped by. After a bit of flirtatious banter from Fonda, the two began discussing Parton. She said she was incredibly flattered by what her husband said about her.
Dolly Parton’s husband spoke highly about his wife
Dean stopped by the Nine to Five set to visit his wife and to see Fonda. She had been his celebrity crush for years and he wanted to see her in person. They talked for a bit — Fonda apparently thought he was very good-looking — and the conversation eventually became about Parton.
“That day on the set, after talking to Carl, she came over to me and asked, ‘What did Carl mean when he said that you’re an angel?’ I didn’t know what he had said,...
Dolly Parton’s husband spoke highly about his wife
Dean stopped by the Nine to Five set to visit his wife and to see Fonda. She had been his celebrity crush for years and he wanted to see her in person. They talked for a bit — Fonda apparently thought he was very good-looking — and the conversation eventually became about Parton.
“That day on the set, after talking to Carl, she came over to me and asked, ‘What did Carl mean when he said that you’re an angel?’ I didn’t know what he had said,...
- 3/30/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton and her husband, Carl Dean, have been married for decades, but she said they approach life in markedly different ways. Parton is far more outgoing and enjoys the spotlight her career brings her. Dean keeps his life so private that many people don’t even know he exists. Their spending habits are also quite different. Parton said Dean hates to spend money and finds her purchasing habits shocking.
Dolly Parton’s husband found her spending habits baffling
While Parton and Dean have a private relationship, she has spoken about him and the way their marriage functions. According to Parton, she and Dean are virtual opposites. One of their points of disagreement is the way they like to spend money.
“Carl would rather have his body hair painfully pulled out than spend money,” Parton wrote in her book Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business. “I call him Scrooge.
Dolly Parton’s husband found her spending habits baffling
While Parton and Dean have a private relationship, she has spoken about him and the way their marriage functions. According to Parton, she and Dean are virtual opposites. One of their points of disagreement is the way they like to spend money.
“Carl would rather have his body hair painfully pulled out than spend money,” Parton wrote in her book Dolly: My Life and Other Unfinished Business. “I call him Scrooge.
- 3/24/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Origins is a recurring series that gives artists a space to break down everything that went into their latest release. Today, country singer Cassandra Lewis sheds light on her new single, “Lost in a Dream.”
There’s a transportive quality to Cassandra Lewis’ voice. From the moment she opens her mouth, the listener is struck with the feeling of being in a different time and place, and while her trilling vibrato might recall Dolly Parton, her belt feels more theatrical, invoking the heartbreaking drama of an artist like Adele.
Lewis is the latest artist to be signed to Elektra’s Low Country Records, and hearing her sing live makes it obvious why the label felt the need to scoop her up. Her emotional power still comes through in recorded format, including on her new single, “Lost In a Dream.”
The artwork for the track shows the vocalist in a field of poppies,...
There’s a transportive quality to Cassandra Lewis’ voice. From the moment she opens her mouth, the listener is struck with the feeling of being in a different time and place, and while her trilling vibrato might recall Dolly Parton, her belt feels more theatrical, invoking the heartbreaking drama of an artist like Adele.
Lewis is the latest artist to be signed to Elektra’s Low Country Records, and hearing her sing live makes it obvious why the label felt the need to scoop her up. Her emotional power still comes through in recorded format, including on her new single, “Lost In a Dream.”
The artwork for the track shows the vocalist in a field of poppies,...
- 3/22/2024
- by Mary Siroky
- Consequence - Music
Elvis Presley and his entourage were on a road trip to Las Vegas when the singer realized he didn’t have one of his bags with him. Rather than reacting to it as a minor frustration, Elvis lashed out at his entourage for forgetting it. The pills he took were in the bag. Elvis turned the car around and spent the drive back making his entourage regret forgetting the bag.
Elvis was not happy with his entourage on a car trip
In 1960, Elvis and his entourage decided to drive to Las Vegas shortly after the singer wrapped filming for G.I. Blues.
“Well, we take off in high spirits, and halfway there we stop at Barstow,” bodyguard Sonny West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “Elvis asks [his cousin Gene Smith] to give him his kit bag. It was Gene’s responsibility to look after Elvis’s kit bag.
Elvis was not happy with his entourage on a car trip
In 1960, Elvis and his entourage decided to drive to Las Vegas shortly after the singer wrapped filming for G.I. Blues.
“Well, we take off in high spirits, and halfway there we stop at Barstow,” bodyguard Sonny West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “Elvis asks [his cousin Gene Smith] to give him his kit bag. It was Gene’s responsibility to look after Elvis’s kit bag.
- 3/18/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Dolly Parton has been married to her husband, Carl Thomas Dean, since 1966. In their nearly 60 years of marriage, she has become a global superstar and he has stayed entirely in the background. Her fame has brought many rumors about her love life, including whispers that she has conducted affairs with several people. Parton said that even members of her family have warned Dean about it. Here’s how he reacts to these rumors.
Dolly Parton’s husband doesn’t worry about her having affairs
For years, tabloids have reported on alleged affairs between Parton, her co-stars, and other musicians. She has even fanned some of these flames herself, believing the publicity could be helpful to whatever project she’s working on. She admitted that people in her life have had serious talks with Dean about her alleged affairs.
“Carl has had various people and even family members approach him to...
Dolly Parton’s husband doesn’t worry about her having affairs
For years, tabloids have reported on alleged affairs between Parton, her co-stars, and other musicians. She has even fanned some of these flames herself, believing the publicity could be helpful to whatever project she’s working on. She admitted that people in her life have had serious talks with Dean about her alleged affairs.
“Carl has had various people and even family members approach him to...
- 3/15/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
After a series of career disappointments, Elvis Presley finally came across a deal that excited him. He received a high-paying offer to perform outside North America, something he had never done despite his massive success. When his manager, Colonel Tom Parker, turned down the deal, Elvis looked deeply shaken.
Elvis seemed horrified after a lucrative deal collapsed
By the mid-1970s, Elvis had suffered a series of career disappointments. The latest was that negotiations for him to appear in A Star Is Born had fallen apart. Elvis wanted the role, but Parker demanded too much money and control; Kris Kristofferson got the part instead. Though Elvis felt disappointed, a new offer buoyed his spirits.
Per the book The Colonel: The Extraordinary Story of Colonel Tom Parker and Elvis Presley by Alanna Nash, Saudi billionaires Adnan and Essam Khashoggi offered Elvis $5 million to perform at the Pyramids of Giza. Parker turned...
Elvis seemed horrified after a lucrative deal collapsed
By the mid-1970s, Elvis had suffered a series of career disappointments. The latest was that negotiations for him to appear in A Star Is Born had fallen apart. Elvis wanted the role, but Parker demanded too much money and control; Kris Kristofferson got the part instead. Though Elvis felt disappointed, a new offer buoyed his spirits.
Per the book The Colonel: The Extraordinary Story of Colonel Tom Parker and Elvis Presley by Alanna Nash, Saudi billionaires Adnan and Essam Khashoggi offered Elvis $5 million to perform at the Pyramids of Giza. Parker turned...
- 3/14/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
John Lennon and Paul McCartney worked closely together on “A Day in the Life.” They each wrote portions of the song and married the parts together to create the finished product. Lennon was often hard on McCartney’s writing, but he complimented the work his bandmate put into the song. He believed that one line McCartney wrote was particularly beautiful.
John Lennon admired one of Paul McCartney’s contributions to ‘A Day in the Life’
While Lennon and McCartney wrote closely together in the early years of The Beatles, they drifted apart as the 1960s progressed. Still, some songs were the product of their close collaboration in later years. “A Day in the Life” was one of them.
“Paul and I were definitely working together, especially on ‘A Day In The Life,’” Lennon said in The Beatles Anthology. “The way we wrote a lot of the time: you’d write the good bit,...
John Lennon admired one of Paul McCartney’s contributions to ‘A Day in the Life’
While Lennon and McCartney wrote closely together in the early years of The Beatles, they drifted apart as the 1960s progressed. Still, some songs were the product of their close collaboration in later years. “A Day in the Life” was one of them.
“Paul and I were definitely working together, especially on ‘A Day In The Life,’” Lennon said in The Beatles Anthology. “The way we wrote a lot of the time: you’d write the good bit,...
- 3/5/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Paul McCartney wrote a large portion of The Beatles’ songs based on a variety of his personal experiences. “Let It Be” came to him after having a dream about his mother and he wrote “She Came In Through the Bathroom Window” after a fan did just that. Beatles associate Alistair Taylor believed McCartney wrote a different Beatles song after a seemingly paranormal experience.
Paul McCartney wrote a Beatles song after a strange experience
In 1967, McCartney and Taylor were walking McCartney’s dog Martha in the morning. As they turned to look for Martha, they realized a man was behind them.
“We turned round to go and suddenly there he was standing behind us,” Taylor said, per the book A Hard Day’s Write: The Stories Behind Every Beatles Song by Steve Turner. “He was a middle-aged man, very respectably dressed in a belted raincoat. Nothing in that, you may think,...
Paul McCartney wrote a Beatles song after a strange experience
In 1967, McCartney and Taylor were walking McCartney’s dog Martha in the morning. As they turned to look for Martha, they realized a man was behind them.
“We turned round to go and suddenly there he was standing behind us,” Taylor said, per the book A Hard Day’s Write: The Stories Behind Every Beatles Song by Steve Turner. “He was a middle-aged man, very respectably dressed in a belted raincoat. Nothing in that, you may think,...
- 2/28/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Beatles fans have long debated the causes of the band’s breakup, but their longtime producer George Martin believed the split was relatively easy to explain. Martin worked with the band for years and watched as they drifted apart. While he recognized that many factors contributed to their breakup, he believed that they wanted an opportunity to live more normal, separate lives.
George Martin said The Beatles wanted normalcy in their lives
The Beatles’ touring and recording schedules, particularly in the first half of the 1960s, allowed them little time to spend with anyone but themselves. They made public appearances as a group and vacationed together. Martin believed that by the end of the decade, they were ready for some time apart.
“The split arose from many contributory things, mainly that each of the boys wanted to live his own life and had never been able to,” Martin said in The Beatles Anthology.
George Martin said The Beatles wanted normalcy in their lives
The Beatles’ touring and recording schedules, particularly in the first half of the 1960s, allowed them little time to spend with anyone but themselves. They made public appearances as a group and vacationed together. Martin believed that by the end of the decade, they were ready for some time apart.
“The split arose from many contributory things, mainly that each of the boys wanted to live his own life and had never been able to,” Martin said in The Beatles Anthology.
- 2/25/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
When The Beatles traveled to America in 1964, they stopped in at one of Don Rickles’ shows in Miami. The band had not yet heard of Rickles, but he immediately recognized them. As he spent a significant portion of his shows poking fun at his audience, he took the opportunity to joke about one of the biggest bands in the world. The Beatles were not prepared for this, and it shocked them.
The Beatles were taken aback by Don Rickles’ jokes
In 1964, The Beatles stayed at the Deauville Hotel in Miami. Though they had a tight schedule, they made time to stop in at one of Rickles’ shows despite not knowing him.
“Probably everyone has heard of Don Rickles now, but we hadn’t in those days, and he was playing in the Deauville Hotel where we stayed,” Ringo Starr said in The Beatles Anthology. “He was a vicious type of comedian.
The Beatles were taken aback by Don Rickles’ jokes
In 1964, The Beatles stayed at the Deauville Hotel in Miami. Though they had a tight schedule, they made time to stop in at one of Rickles’ shows despite not knowing him.
“Probably everyone has heard of Don Rickles now, but we hadn’t in those days, and he was playing in the Deauville Hotel where we stayed,” Ringo Starr said in The Beatles Anthology. “He was a vicious type of comedian.
- 2/20/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley’s former home, Graceland, is located in Memphis, Tennessee, and welcomes roughly 600,000 visitors each year. The singer moved his family into the house in 1957 and remained there until his death. While Elvis owned multiple other residences, Graceland is far and away his most famous home. It is on the National Register of Historic Places and works to preserve his legacy.
Fans flocked to the Graceland gates while Elvis was living there and began to stream in as visitors after his death. Here’s a peek inside the gates of the historic estate.
Elvis | Rb/Redferns
Elvis treated the Graceland grounds as his personal playground. He had a swimming pool, racquetball court, and shooting range on the property. According to Priscilla Presley, he often had “screaming thrill rides” in which he sped around the grounds on his custom-built golf cart (via Elvis and Me). Here, he drives out of the custom-designed gates,...
Fans flocked to the Graceland gates while Elvis was living there and began to stream in as visitors after his death. Here’s a peek inside the gates of the historic estate.
Elvis | Rb/Redferns
Elvis treated the Graceland grounds as his personal playground. He had a swimming pool, racquetball court, and shooting range on the property. According to Priscilla Presley, he often had “screaming thrill rides” in which he sped around the grounds on his custom-built golf cart (via Elvis and Me). Here, he drives out of the custom-designed gates,...
- 2/15/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Gwen Stefani considered herself a star even back when she was with her band No Doubt. But the late Prince might’ve given Stefani advice that helped her reach her full potential.
Gwen Stefani once reflected on Prince’s advice Prince | Richard E. Aaron/Redferns
Prince has always had some influence on Stefani as an artist. The singer even recalled Prince being one of the motivating factors behind going solo. Stefani was the vocalist for the band No Doubt up until the 2000s when they split to focus on their individual careers. Stefani was excited by the opportunity to work alongside others after leaving No Doubt. But she also wanted to explore her artistry in a way she couldn’t while a part of the ensemble.
“I love being in that band and we’re like a family,” Stefani once told Vanity Fair. “But sometimes I felt like I couldn...
Gwen Stefani once reflected on Prince’s advice Prince | Richard E. Aaron/Redferns
Prince has always had some influence on Stefani as an artist. The singer even recalled Prince being one of the motivating factors behind going solo. Stefani was the vocalist for the band No Doubt up until the 2000s when they split to focus on their individual careers. Stefani was excited by the opportunity to work alongside others after leaving No Doubt. But she also wanted to explore her artistry in a way she couldn’t while a part of the ensemble.
“I love being in that band and we’re like a family,” Stefani once told Vanity Fair. “But sometimes I felt like I couldn...
- 2/1/2024
- by Antonio Stallings
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In the early years of The Beatles, Paul McCartney said the band was incredibly tight-knit. They lived, toured, and wrote music together. While each of them had serious long-term relationships in the early years of the band, McCartney said their band relationships were more important to them. He admitted that this made them chauvinistic.
Paul McCartney said The Beatles were so tight-knit they could be ‘chauvinist’
In 1963, McCartney met Jane Asher, an actor. The couple dated for five years and McCartney lived with her at her parents’ home for a portion of this time. While he said it was a “good relationship,” she was not his primary focus. His bandmates were.
“To tell the truth, the women at that time got sidelined,” he said in The Beatles Anthology. “Now it would be seen as very chauvinist of us. Then it was like: ‘We are four miners who go down the pit.
Paul McCartney said The Beatles were so tight-knit they could be ‘chauvinist’
In 1963, McCartney met Jane Asher, an actor. The couple dated for five years and McCartney lived with her at her parents’ home for a portion of this time. While he said it was a “good relationship,” she was not his primary focus. His bandmates were.
“To tell the truth, the women at that time got sidelined,” he said in The Beatles Anthology. “Now it would be seen as very chauvinist of us. Then it was like: ‘We are four miners who go down the pit.
- 1/25/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley achieved fame at a young age, something his peers at school likely wouldn’t have anticipated. Elvis was the target of frequent bullying, both from his classmates and the administration. According to one of his few allies, Elvis hardly had any friends. He was always polite and easygoing, but he seemed lonely.
Elvis seemed lonely in high school
Red West, who would become one of Elvis’ bodyguards and closest confidantes, met the singer when they were in high school. They were not friends, exactly, but West always felt sympathy for Elvis. He was frequently the target of bullying.
“It seems that the way I remember it, someone was always picking on him,” West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “Don’t know why. He was easygoing enough, quiet, well-mannered, was always respectful of his elders, and he never wised off at anyone. ln many...
Elvis seemed lonely in high school
Red West, who would become one of Elvis’ bodyguards and closest confidantes, met the singer when they were in high school. They were not friends, exactly, but West always felt sympathy for Elvis. He was frequently the target of bullying.
“It seems that the way I remember it, someone was always picking on him,” West said in the book Elvis: What Happened? by Steve Dunleavy. “Don’t know why. He was easygoing enough, quiet, well-mannered, was always respectful of his elders, and he never wised off at anyone. ln many...
- 1/25/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
“Please Please Me” was an early hit for The Beatles, but it might not have made it far in its original form. According to Beatles producer George Martin, the initial version of the song was slow and dull. When he pointed this out to the band, they felt embarrassed that they hadn’t noticed.
The Beatles’ producer embarrassed the band when he asked them to change ‘Please Please Me’
When The Beatles first played “Please Please Me” for Martin, he could scarcely keep from yawning. They wanted it on the first single, but he thought it was too boring as it stood.
“In the first year, I had the final decision on songs, but they persuaded me to let them have their own songs on both sides of their first single,” Martin said in The Beatles Anthology. “I was still thinking that we should release their recording of ‘How Do You Do It.
The Beatles’ producer embarrassed the band when he asked them to change ‘Please Please Me’
When The Beatles first played “Please Please Me” for Martin, he could scarcely keep from yawning. They wanted it on the first single, but he thought it was too boring as it stood.
“In the first year, I had the final decision on songs, but they persuaded me to let them have their own songs on both sides of their first single,” Martin said in The Beatles Anthology. “I was still thinking that we should release their recording of ‘How Do You Do It.
- 1/23/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In 1967, Paul McCartney admitted that The Beatles had taken LSD. This, of course, sparked major controversy and brought criticism to the band. Each of McCartney’s bandmates had taken LSD more than him, but they’d avoided speaking about it publicly. They weren’t happy with McCartney for breaking the news to the media.
Paul McCartney irritated the other Beatles by talking about LSD
In 1967, McCartney gave an interview in which he admitted to having taken drugs.
“I remember a couple of men from ITN showed up, and then the newscaster arrived: ‘Is it true you’ve had drugs?’” he said in The Beatles Anthology. “They were at my door — I couldn’t tell them to go away — so I thought, ‘Well, I’m either going to try to bluff this, or I’m going to tell him the truth.’ I made a lightning decision: ‘Sod it. I’ll give them the truth.
Paul McCartney irritated the other Beatles by talking about LSD
In 1967, McCartney gave an interview in which he admitted to having taken drugs.
“I remember a couple of men from ITN showed up, and then the newscaster arrived: ‘Is it true you’ve had drugs?’” he said in The Beatles Anthology. “They were at my door — I couldn’t tell them to go away — so I thought, ‘Well, I’m either going to try to bluff this, or I’m going to tell him the truth.’ I made a lightning decision: ‘Sod it. I’ll give them the truth.
- 1/21/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In 1963, the songs The Beatles released laid the groundwork to establish them as the biggest band in the world. They had a handful of hits that year that completely changed their lives. While they were proud of each release, Paul McCartney said one of these in particular felt like a big step forward for the group. He shared how the introduction of a chord made him feel like they were growing as artists.
Paul McCartney said 1 early Beatles song felt like a step forward for the band
In 1963, The Beatles released their debut album Please Please Me. For years before this, though, McCartney, John Lennon, and George Harrison had performed together. Lennon and McCartney had long been writing songs and had amassed a catalog of music.
“We’d had a fair bit of practice writing over the years, though our legendary ‘first one hundred’ was probably in reality less than half that amount of songs,...
Paul McCartney said 1 early Beatles song felt like a step forward for the band
In 1963, The Beatles released their debut album Please Please Me. For years before this, though, McCartney, John Lennon, and George Harrison had performed together. Lennon and McCartney had long been writing songs and had amassed a catalog of music.
“We’d had a fair bit of practice writing over the years, though our legendary ‘first one hundred’ was probably in reality less than half that amount of songs,...
- 1/17/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
While Elvis Presley owned a fleet of private planes in his lifetime, he once swore off flying. In the 1950s, the musician had such a frightening experience on a plane that his mother told him never to fly again. When Elvis’ plane lost all its power, he firmly believed he was going to die in the middle of the flight.
Elvis Presley thought he was going to die on a plane trip
In the 1950s, Elvis took a small plane to travel on tour. While he was in the air, the plane began having electrical problems.
“A year earlier he had the scare of his life. He was traveling over the Ozarks in a small plane going from one gig to the next, and the way he told it to me suddenly this damn plane just lost all its power,” his bodyguard Red West said in Elvis: What Happened? “The...
Elvis Presley thought he was going to die on a plane trip
In the 1950s, Elvis took a small plane to travel on tour. While he was in the air, the plane began having electrical problems.
“A year earlier he had the scare of his life. He was traveling over the Ozarks in a small plane going from one gig to the next, and the way he told it to me suddenly this damn plane just lost all its power,” his bodyguard Red West said in Elvis: What Happened? “The...
- 1/13/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
The Beatles began working with their manager, Brian Epstein, on their rise to fame. He helped them grow as artists and was an essential part of their success. Though he appreciated the way The Beatles changed his life, he once decided he’d had enough of them. The band told him that if he sold them to another label, they would stop making music altogether.
The Beatles said they would disband if their manager sold them to another label
Though Epstein was the band’s manager, he didn’t have all that much power over them.
“Brian could never make us do what we really, really didn’t want to do,” John Lennon said in The Beatles Anthology. “He wasn’t strong enough.”
Epstein grew frustrated with this dynamic, though, and eventually told The Beatles he was going to sell them to another label. They refused to listen to him on this,...
The Beatles said they would disband if their manager sold them to another label
Though Epstein was the band’s manager, he didn’t have all that much power over them.
“Brian could never make us do what we really, really didn’t want to do,” John Lennon said in The Beatles Anthology. “He wasn’t strong enough.”
Epstein grew frustrated with this dynamic, though, and eventually told The Beatles he was going to sell them to another label. They refused to listen to him on this,...
- 1/6/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Before The Beatles, Ringo Starr’s career ambitions had a lot to do with what would look good to girls. After recovering from an illness, Starr took a job on a boat with hopes of earning a position at deep sea. He also hoped the position would win him popularity with women. His attempts at flirting didn’t often go well, though.
Ringo Starr tried to use a fake job to flirt with girls
Starr was sick for much of his childhood. Once he began to recover, he took a job on a local boat, hoping it would launch a career for him.
“Then I worked on the St. Tudno, a pleasure steamer that went from Liverpool to Menai in North Wales,” he said in The Beatles Anthology. “I wanted to go deep sea, and this was an easy way to get my ticket. If you did three months on the local boats,...
Ringo Starr tried to use a fake job to flirt with girls
Starr was sick for much of his childhood. Once he began to recover, he took a job on a local boat, hoping it would launch a career for him.
“Then I worked on the St. Tudno, a pleasure steamer that went from Liverpool to Menai in North Wales,” he said in The Beatles Anthology. “I wanted to go deep sea, and this was an easy way to get my ticket. If you did three months on the local boats,...
- 1/4/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In 1977, Elvis Presley collapsed at Graceland, sending the household into chaos. Nobody seemed sure what to do with themselves, and the situation grew even more grievous when they received news that Elvis had died. According to one of the paramedics who arrived at the home, Graceland fell into complete hysteria.
Everyone at Graceland was stunned by the news of Elvis’ death
On Aug. 16, 1977, Elvis’ fiancée, Ginger Alden, awoke in the afternoon and realized Elvis wasn’t in bed with her. When she investigated, she found him unresponsive on his bathroom floor.
Paramedics rushed the musician to the hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead. Elvis’ doctor left the hospital and returned to Graceland to inform the musician’s family and friends. This news hit the already-grieving Graceland with a crushing blow.
Elvis Presley | Rb/Redferns
“[Graceland] was filled with hysteria,” Emt Ulysses S. Jones, Jr. said, per the book Careless Love: The...
Everyone at Graceland was stunned by the news of Elvis’ death
On Aug. 16, 1977, Elvis’ fiancée, Ginger Alden, awoke in the afternoon and realized Elvis wasn’t in bed with her. When she investigated, she found him unresponsive on his bathroom floor.
Paramedics rushed the musician to the hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead. Elvis’ doctor left the hospital and returned to Graceland to inform the musician’s family and friends. This news hit the already-grieving Graceland with a crushing blow.
Elvis Presley | Rb/Redferns
“[Graceland] was filled with hysteria,” Emt Ulysses S. Jones, Jr. said, per the book Careless Love: The...
- 1/3/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Elvis Presley’s wife, girlfriend, and relative all spoke about the musician’s desire to have them treat him like a child. He had an extremely close relationship with his mother and, after her death, seemed to want the women in his life to fill her role. His girlfriend, Sheila Ryan, said that their relationship had almost felt adolescent in its innocence until he started asking her to baby him.
Elvis’ girlfriend said he wanted her to treat him like a child
Just one day after meeting Ryan, Elvis bought her a new wardrobe and told her that he saw her as his girlfriend. They began spending time together, and Ryan said she found it surprising that he was so innocent.
“Then, I spent a couple of nights with him, and, you know, the sexual thing was never a big deal to him, you would think it was, but it wasn’t,...
Elvis’ girlfriend said he wanted her to treat him like a child
Just one day after meeting Ryan, Elvis bought her a new wardrobe and told her that he saw her as his girlfriend. They began spending time together, and Ryan said she found it surprising that he was so innocent.
“Then, I spent a couple of nights with him, and, you know, the sexual thing was never a big deal to him, you would think it was, but it wasn’t,...
- 1/1/2024
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
While Elvis Presley was staying with his doctor, he called his friend in the middle of the night with an emergency. When his friend arrived, he found the musician collapsed on the floor, unable to get back up. Though Elvis was in better shape the following day, his friend was still furious. He blew up at Elvis’ doctor for not stepping in to help the musician.
Elvis’ friend was not happy with his doctor
While Elvis’ friend, Jerry Schilling, was visiting him in Las Vegas, he received a call from the musician in the middle of the night.
“He said, ‘Jerry, can you help me?'” Schilling said, per the book Careless Love: The Unmaking of Elvis Presley by Peter Guralnick. “I said, ‘What’s wrong?’ He said, ‘I’m on the floor and I can’t walk. Nobody’s here.'”
Elvis Presley | Rb/Redferns
By the time Schilling arrived at the house,...
Elvis’ friend was not happy with his doctor
While Elvis’ friend, Jerry Schilling, was visiting him in Las Vegas, he received a call from the musician in the middle of the night.
“He said, ‘Jerry, can you help me?'” Schilling said, per the book Careless Love: The Unmaking of Elvis Presley by Peter Guralnick. “I said, ‘What’s wrong?’ He said, ‘I’m on the floor and I can’t walk. Nobody’s here.'”
Elvis Presley | Rb/Redferns
By the time Schilling arrived at the house,...
- 12/27/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
By the end of Elvis Presley’s life, he surrounded himself with just a few friends and relatives. One was his cousin’s wife, Jo Smith. Smith and her husband, Billy, were among Elvis’ closest confidants in his final years. Smith explained that Elvis looked to her as a maternal figure. She said she had to treat him like he was a child.
Elvis Presley’s relative treated him like a child
Several months before Elvis’ death, Smith began putting Elvis to bed as though he was a young boy. She loved him and was willing to do anything for him, but he relied heavily on her.
“We had to take care of him and cater to him like a small child,” Smith said in the book Careless Love: The Unmaking of Elvis Presley by Peter Guralnick. “I did things I never thought I’d do. Like when it came...
Elvis Presley’s relative treated him like a child
Several months before Elvis’ death, Smith began putting Elvis to bed as though he was a young boy. She loved him and was willing to do anything for him, but he relied heavily on her.
“We had to take care of him and cater to him like a small child,” Smith said in the book Careless Love: The Unmaking of Elvis Presley by Peter Guralnick. “I did things I never thought I’d do. Like when it came...
- 12/26/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
John Lennon left Hamburg, Germany, without the other Beatles. The government had deported George Harrison, Paul McCartney, and Pete Best, and Stuart Sutcliffe remained in Germany with his girlfriend. Lennon did not enjoy his time alone in the city and liked his trip back to England even less. He shared why he felt terrified on the journey.
John Lennon made his way back from Hamburg without the other Beatles
After Harrison, McCartney, and Best left Hamburg, Lennon remained for a brief time.
“They were all deported and I was left in Hamburg, playing alone with another group of musicians,” he said in The Beatles Anthology. “It was quite a shattering experience to be in a foreign country, pretty young, left there all on my own. We’d spent our money as we went along. I didn’t have any to spare and being stuck in Hamburg with no food money...
John Lennon made his way back from Hamburg without the other Beatles
After Harrison, McCartney, and Best left Hamburg, Lennon remained for a brief time.
“They were all deported and I was left in Hamburg, playing alone with another group of musicians,” he said in The Beatles Anthology. “It was quite a shattering experience to be in a foreign country, pretty young, left there all on my own. We’d spent our money as we went along. I didn’t have any to spare and being stuck in Hamburg with no food money...
- 12/26/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Though Paul McCartney can afford to celebrate Christmas lavishly these days, he looks back fondly on his childhood celebrations of the holiday. McCartney shared how he celebrated Christmas as a child. He also spoke about why these are among his favorite memories.
Paul McCartney shared how he spent Christmases as a child
McCartney grew up in a Liverpool home with his mother, father, and younger brother. He said that his favorite Christmas memories come from this era of his life.
“I think waking up as a really little kid on Christmas morning, and just seeing the white pillowcase that we used to get,” he said in an interview on his official website, adding, “It was like a stocking but Mum and Dad used to put it in a white pillowcase, and it would be a present, a couple of nuts and a tangerine.”
Paul and Linda McCartney | David Redfern/Redferns...
Paul McCartney shared how he spent Christmases as a child
McCartney grew up in a Liverpool home with his mother, father, and younger brother. He said that his favorite Christmas memories come from this era of his life.
“I think waking up as a really little kid on Christmas morning, and just seeing the white pillowcase that we used to get,” he said in an interview on his official website, adding, “It was like a stocking but Mum and Dad used to put it in a white pillowcase, and it would be a present, a couple of nuts and a tangerine.”
Paul and Linda McCartney | David Redfern/Redferns...
- 12/25/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
For much of his adult life, Elvis Presley maintained a nocturnal sleep schedule. He fell asleep in the early hours of the morning and woke up late in the afternoon. This schedule came from a lifelong fear of sleepwalking and his terror of the dark. According to one of Elvis’ friends, the musician said he could not fall asleep when the sun was down.
Elvis had a fear of the dark that impacted his sleep schedule
When Elvis took friends on a ski trip in Denver, he reunited with his friend, police officer Ron Pietrafeso. The pair would meet up and talk late into the night. Elvis admitted that these hours were best for him; he never slept during the night.
“He said, ‘When I was a little kid, I couldn’t sleep. I was really afraid of the dark, ’cause I didn’t know what was going to happen to me,...
Elvis had a fear of the dark that impacted his sleep schedule
When Elvis took friends on a ski trip in Denver, he reunited with his friend, police officer Ron Pietrafeso. The pair would meet up and talk late into the night. Elvis admitted that these hours were best for him; he never slept during the night.
“He said, ‘When I was a little kid, I couldn’t sleep. I was really afraid of the dark, ’cause I didn’t know what was going to happen to me,...
- 12/10/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
One of Paul McCartney’s favorite songs that he wrote for The Beatles was “Yesterday.” It came to him in a dream and became a hit for the band. To this day, it is one of their most enduring and well-known songs. Despite its success, the group felt a bit embarrassed about it. McCartney revealed that his bandmates made fun of him for the song.
Paul McCartney said his bandmates teased him about ‘Yesterday’
“Yesterday” was a successful song for The Beatles, but they didn’t release it as a single. It was slow and yearning and didn’t seem to fit their image as a rock band.
“I wouldn’t have put it out as a solo ‘Paul McCartney’ record. We never entertained those ideas,” McCartney said in The Beatles Anthology. “It was sometimes tempting; people would flatter us: ‘Oh, you know you should get out front,’ or, ‘You...
Paul McCartney said his bandmates teased him about ‘Yesterday’
“Yesterday” was a successful song for The Beatles, but they didn’t release it as a single. It was slow and yearning and didn’t seem to fit their image as a rock band.
“I wouldn’t have put it out as a solo ‘Paul McCartney’ record. We never entertained those ideas,” McCartney said in The Beatles Anthology. “It was sometimes tempting; people would flatter us: ‘Oh, you know you should get out front,’ or, ‘You...
- 12/10/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Each of The Beatles became interested in music at a young age. They obsessed over artists like Elvis Presley and began dedicating themselves to learning to play instruments. Both George Harrison and Ringo Starr became interested in playing music while in the hospital. They shared how their lengthy stays made them want to learn to play an instrument.
George Harrison decided he wanted a guitar while in the hospital
When Harrison was a preteen, he fell ill with kidney problems.
“I’d just left Dovedale Junior School and gone to the big school, the Liverpool Institute, when I went into hospital. I got sick when I was twelve or thirteen with kidney trouble,”,” he said in The Beatles Anthology, adding, “I always used to get tonsillitis; childhood illnesses. I had a really sore throat, and this one year the infection spread and gave me nephritis, an inflammation of the kidneys.
George Harrison decided he wanted a guitar while in the hospital
When Harrison was a preteen, he fell ill with kidney problems.
“I’d just left Dovedale Junior School and gone to the big school, the Liverpool Institute, when I went into hospital. I got sick when I was twelve or thirteen with kidney trouble,”,” he said in The Beatles Anthology, adding, “I always used to get tonsillitis; childhood illnesses. I had a really sore throat, and this one year the infection spread and gave me nephritis, an inflammation of the kidneys.
- 12/10/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In his time with The Beatles, Paul McCartney wrote many hit songs. Together, he and John Lennon made their mark on songwriting history. McCartney said that one of the songs he wrote without any of Lennon’s assistance was one of the top songs of the century. Still, he said that its release was a bit disappointing.
Paul McCartney said a Beatles song he wrote was the song of the century
One of The Beatles’ most famous songs is “Yesterday,” which came to McCartney in a dream. Because of this, he assumed he couldn’t have actually come up with it. When he realized it was an original melody, he set to work writing lyrics. This made the song’s massive success felt even more thrilling.
“It was my most successful song. It’s amazing that it just came to me in a dream,” he said in The Beatles Anthology.
Paul McCartney said a Beatles song he wrote was the song of the century
One of The Beatles’ most famous songs is “Yesterday,” which came to McCartney in a dream. Because of this, he assumed he couldn’t have actually come up with it. When he realized it was an original melody, he set to work writing lyrics. This made the song’s massive success felt even more thrilling.
“It was my most successful song. It’s amazing that it just came to me in a dream,” he said in The Beatles Anthology.
- 12/4/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Since its release, Paul McCartney’s song “Wonderful Christmastime” has sharply divided fans. While some people see it as a holiday classic, others find it cloying and repetitive. When discussing the song, a musicologist said its flaw for many lies in its simplicity. Still, the holiday song is incredibly successful.
A musicologist broke down why a Paul McCartney song annoys fans
In 1979, McCartney released the song “Wonderful Christmastime.” In the decades since its release, people have struggled to decide whether it is a holiday classic or a song with no place in the Christmas canon. Musicologist Nate Sloan said one of the song’s biggest problems is that it is “simple to a fault.”
“It moves through the verse section of the song faster than a sleigh with no brakes,” Sloan told Mental Floss. “Before you know it, ‘that’s enough’ and we’re off to the titular chorus. It...
A musicologist broke down why a Paul McCartney song annoys fans
In 1979, McCartney released the song “Wonderful Christmastime.” In the decades since its release, people have struggled to decide whether it is a holiday classic or a song with no place in the Christmas canon. Musicologist Nate Sloan said one of the song’s biggest problems is that it is “simple to a fault.”
“It moves through the verse section of the song faster than a sleigh with no brakes,” Sloan told Mental Floss. “Before you know it, ‘that’s enough’ and we’re off to the titular chorus. It...
- 11/25/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Paul McCartney and John Lennon met as teenagers, years before they became international superstars. While it didn’t initially seem that they had much in common — McCartney admitted that he found Lennon frightening — they got along. Through their obsessions with music, they formed a friendship that invigorated Lennon.
Paul McCartney and John Lennon clicked when they wrote together
Lennon and McCartney met at a church festival. Lennon and his band, the Quarrymen, had performed to an audience that included McCartney. He was impressed enough with Lennon’s talent and showmanship that he had to introduce himself afterward.
From there, they became fast friends and collaborators. McCartney would meet with Lennon over lunch, and they worked on music together.
Paul McCartney and John Lennon | Universal Archive/Universal Images Group via Getty Images
“Paul would have a school notebook and he’d be scribbling down words,” Lennon’s classmate Helen Anderson said...
Paul McCartney and John Lennon clicked when they wrote together
Lennon and McCartney met at a church festival. Lennon and his band, the Quarrymen, had performed to an audience that included McCartney. He was impressed enough with Lennon’s talent and showmanship that he had to introduce himself afterward.
From there, they became fast friends and collaborators. McCartney would meet with Lennon over lunch, and they worked on music together.
Paul McCartney and John Lennon | Universal Archive/Universal Images Group via Getty Images
“Paul would have a school notebook and he’d be scribbling down words,” Lennon’s classmate Helen Anderson said...
- 11/18/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In the late 1960s, George Martin, Paul McCartney, and George Harrison, among others, began voicing their concerns about someone working with The Beatles. “Magic” Alex Mardas was one of Apple Corps’ earliest employees and a friend of John Lennon. He promised them unique electronic decorations and improved recording equipment. The band enlisted him to build them a shiny new studio, a project Harrison later described as a complete disaster.
George Harrison said Magic Alex Mardas was a disaster in the studio for The Beatles
As an Apple employee, Mardas grew familiar with The Beatles’ recording equipment and told them it was terribly out of date. Per the book Paul McCartney: Many Years From Now by Barry Miles, Mardas began telling them he could design a seventy-two-track studio that would be more advanced than any existing studio.
John Lennon, Alex Mardas, Paul McCartney, and Les Anthony | Mirrorpix via Getty Images
This was nowhere near the truth.
George Harrison said Magic Alex Mardas was a disaster in the studio for The Beatles
As an Apple employee, Mardas grew familiar with The Beatles’ recording equipment and told them it was terribly out of date. Per the book Paul McCartney: Many Years From Now by Barry Miles, Mardas began telling them he could design a seventy-two-track studio that would be more advanced than any existing studio.
John Lennon, Alex Mardas, Paul McCartney, and Les Anthony | Mirrorpix via Getty Images
This was nowhere near the truth.
- 10/4/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
In 1964, Elvis Presley hired a new barber, putting Priscilla and his Memphis Mafia on edge. Priscilla met his new barber, Larry Geller, and found him kind, but she didn’t like the influence he had over Elvis. He spoke in depth about spirituality, which fascinated Elvis. Priscilla explained that everyone around Elvis was suspicious of Geller.
Priscilla Presley worried Elvis’ new barber would be a bad influence on him
Elvis and Priscilla were apart when he hired Geller, but he spoke excitedly about him over the phone. Priscilla recalled Elvis describing Geller to her in her book Elvis and Me.
“‘You’re not going to believe this guy, Sattnin,’ he said. ‘Larry knows more about the spiritual world than all the preachers and Catholic priests and religious fanatics put together. We have discussions that last hours, just talkin’ and talkin’ about the great masters and my purpose for being here.
Priscilla Presley worried Elvis’ new barber would be a bad influence on him
Elvis and Priscilla were apart when he hired Geller, but he spoke excitedly about him over the phone. Priscilla recalled Elvis describing Geller to her in her book Elvis and Me.
“‘You’re not going to believe this guy, Sattnin,’ he said. ‘Larry knows more about the spiritual world than all the preachers and Catholic priests and religious fanatics put together. We have discussions that last hours, just talkin’ and talkin’ about the great masters and my purpose for being here.
- 9/29/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
John Lennon was the first Beatle to get married, and Paul McCartney was the last. Though McCartney was in a relationship with Jane Asher for most of the 1960s, he felt their dynamic was more relaxed than it would have been if they were married. He said that Lennon also recognized this and was jealous of it.
Paul McCartney Said John Lennon was jealous of his relationship
In 1963, McCartney and Asher, a London-based actor, began dating. McCartney moved into her family’s home later that year, and they continued dating until 1968. Though McCartney and Asher lived together for most of their relationship, he felt a great deal of freedom. He continued to date around while they were together.
“Living in the Asher house gave me the base and the freedom and the independence,” McCartney said in the book Paul McCartney: Many Years From Now by Barry Miles. “That, alongside all the other things,...
Paul McCartney Said John Lennon was jealous of his relationship
In 1963, McCartney and Asher, a London-based actor, began dating. McCartney moved into her family’s home later that year, and they continued dating until 1968. Though McCartney and Asher lived together for most of their relationship, he felt a great deal of freedom. He continued to date around while they were together.
“Living in the Asher house gave me the base and the freedom and the independence,” McCartney said in the book Paul McCartney: Many Years From Now by Barry Miles. “That, alongside all the other things,...
- 9/18/2023
- by Emma McKee
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
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