Colonel Tom Parker

Date of Birth: June 26, 1909

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: January 21, 1997

Biography

Colonel Tom Parker, born Andreas Cornelis van Kuijk, was a Dutch-born musical entrepreneur best known for managing the career of Elvis Presley. Born on June 26, 1909, in Breda, Netherlands, Parker immigrated to the United States illegally when he was 20 years old. He initially worked in various carnival and circus roles before finding his niche in the music industry. Parker’s career took off when he began managing country singer Eddy Arnold, and later, Hank Snow. However, his most significant contribution to the music world was discovering and managing Elvis Presley. Parker’s business acumen and promotional strategies were instrumental in turning Presley into an international superstar. Parker secured lucrative film deals, television appearances, and extensive touring schedules for Presley, while also negotiating highly profitable merchandising and record contracts. Despite controversies regarding his management style and financial arrangements, Parker remained Presley’s manager until the iconic singer’s death in 1977. After Presley’s death, Parker faced legal battles over his management practices and financial affairs. He spent his later years in Las Vegas, passing away on January 21, 1997.

5 Interesting Facts about Colonel Tom Parker

1. Colonel Tom Parker was not an actual colonel; the title was honorary, awarded by Louisiana Governor Jimmie Davis.

2. Parker managed Elvis Presley for over two decades, from 1955 until Presley’s death in 1977.

3. Despite managing one of the most famous artists in history, Parker was a controversial figure, often criticized for his stringent control and financial arrangements.

4. Parker was an illegal immigrant, having entered the United States without proper documentation.

5. He was a master promoter, known for his creative marketing strategies, including the famous slogan “Elvis has left the building.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Colonel Tom Parker

1. “You can do anything, but lay off of my blue suede shoes.”

2. “I consider it my patriotic duty to keep Elvis working.”

3. “I sleep very well knowing I’ve done the best for Elvis.”

4. “Show business is really 90 percent business and 10 percent show.”

5. “When I first heard Elvis sing, I knew I wasn’t going to have to work hard for the rest of my life.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At his peak, Colonel Tom Parker’s net worth was estimated to be around $100 million.

Children

Colonel Tom Parker did not have any biological children. He was married to Marie Mott from 1935 until her death in 1986, but the couple did not have any children.