Colonel Tom Parker Exhibit Opens

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum has unveiled a special spotlight exhibit dedicated to the life and career of the late Colonel Tom Parker. The revolutionary music business figure served as Elvis Presley’s longtime manager. The exhibit, which is located within the Museum’s permanent exhibition, is titled after one of Parker’s famous slogans, The Colonel Says, “How Much Does It Cost If It’s Free,” and will run through March 2010.

Colonel Parker managed Elvis Presley from 1955 until the singer’s death in 1977. Prior to managing Presley, Parker helped transform Eddy Arnold into a country superstar with his own radio shows, movie roles, Las Vegas bookings, and an unparalleled resumé of No. 1 records. In steering the careers of both men, Parker revolutionized the artist management role, displaying an unprecedented marketing savvy while exercising near-total control. His energetic, all-encompassing management style created a blueprint that is still followed today.

The exhibit will trace Parker’s life and career, from his days as an immigrant carnival worker to his time as a powerful, pioneering artist manager. www.countrymusichalloffame.com