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Elvis Presley, known as a pioneer in spreading rock and roll, made a grand entrance into the American music scene in the mid-20th century, capturing the hearts of millions. However, it can also be said that his success was due to the clever marketing strategies of his manager, Colonel Tom Parker. This time, we introduce one of Colonel Parker's strategies: the sale of badges.
Colonel Parker sold badges that said "I LIKE ELVIS," which captured the hearts of fans and sold well. Fans wearing these badges could be recognized as Elvis fans without saying a word, serving as a means of self-expression and a way to connect with other Elvis fans. Naturally, Elvis and Colonel Parker could further profit from the sale of these badges, and as people wore these badges around, fans unknowingly became promoters of Elvis.
Adding to this, Colonel Parker also sold badges that said "I HATE ELVIS." This seemingly odd strategy was revolutionary in converting even negative feelings towards Elvis into profit. Even those who did not favor Elvis or his music could contribute to the profits.
According to a post on Reddit , Elvis's anti-fans enjoyed playing with the "I HATE ELVIS" badges by erasing the "H," turning it into "I Ate Elvis."
"I Ate Elvis" implied surpassing or defeating Elvis in some way. Literally, the one who "ate" was in a higher position than the one being "eaten." Additionally, "I Ate Elvis" could be interpreted as a shortened form of "I ate Elvis's lunch," a phrase indicating superiority. While the modern interpretation of "I ate someone" suggests a sexual relationship, at the time, it did not carry such connotations, allowing people to enjoy this expression. For the youth of that era, "I Ate Elvis" satisfied their competitive spirit towards Elvis.
Thus, through the sale of badges, Colonel Parker's strategy of profiting from both love and hate towards Elvis may not have been intentional, but the "I HATE ELVIS" badges also sold well. Turning the emotions of fans and anti-fans alike into business opportunities was a clever marketing move by Colonel Parker. His strategies not only elevated Elvis to unparalleled fame but also laid the groundwork for future marketing in the music industry.
https://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/i-hate-elvis-1956-presley-badge-button-pinback https://redriverparishjournal.com/2020/02/05/i-hate-elvis/ https://www.gottahaverockandroll.com/i-like-elvis-pinback-button-lot1105.aspx https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Elvis_Presley-_Billboard_ad_1956.png https://i0.wp.com/redriverparishjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Feb5-Remember-This-BOT.jpg?w=750&ssl=1
