Personal check, 8.25 x 3, filled out and signed as “E. A. Presley,” payable to “Memphis Mafia” member Sonny West for $1500.00, May 9, 1975. A memo at the left edge reads, “Bonus for April 1975 tour.” Elvis played 18 shows during a tour of the southeast from April 24 to May 7, 1975, including stops in Atlanta and Macon, Georgia, and Lakeland and Tampa, Florida. West’s primary responsibility was security at Elvis’s concerts. The “Memphis Mafia” was the nickname for a group of friends, associates, employees and “yes-men” whose main function was to be around Elvis from 1954 until his death. Several filled practical roles in the singer’s life; some worked as bodyguards, while others were responsible for tour logistics and scheduling. In these cases Elvis paid salaries, but most of the “Mafia” lived off of such fringe benefits as gifts, cars, houses and bonuses. Over the years, the number of members grew and changed, but for the most part there was a core group—including West—who spent much time with the singer. Central vertical fold, small red pencil notation, and light bank stamp to first letter of signature, otherwise fine condition. A terrific association with one of the King’s most trusted friends! COA Roger Epperson/REAL and R&R COA.
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