Dutch-born impresario (1909–1997), né Andreas Corneliius van Kuijk, who, as Elvis’ manager, maintained a Svengali-like grip on the singer’s career. His complete oversight was indisputably one of the driving forces behind Elvis’s success, though whether his influence was in the end a boon or a detriment remains a hotly debated topic. DS, signed “Colonel Tom Parker,” one page, 8.5 x 13, August 31, 1956. An agreement related to the use of the songs “Love Me Tender,” “There’s a Leak in the Old Building,” and “Poor Boy” in a film tentatively titled The Reno Brothers (released as Love Me Tender). Light handling wear with a few creases and paperclip impression, and mild wrinkling, otherwise fine condition.
Released in 1956, this was Elvis' first film, and 20th Century Fox studio executives were unsure if his popularity would translate to the big screen. Of course, Presley’s overwhelming presence and status as the "King of Rock & Roll" showed there was no question about who would be the main draw. Love Me Tender holds the distinction of being the only Western genre with musical numbers, and is also notable for the fact that Elvis didn’t receive top billing (having been beaten out by both Richard Egan and Debra Paget). For his part, ‘The Colonel’ decision (like so many) to approve this document turned out to be a wise one. Studio heads decided to change the name of the film after the title song passed the one million sales mark, a first for a single. RRAuction COA.
