Lisa Marie Presley, the daughter of music legend Elvis Presley, has left an indelible mark on the world with her posthumous memoir, From Here to the Great Unknown . The book, completed by her daughter Riley Keough after her passing, delves into intimate details of her life, including her relationships with two of the most iconic figures in music history: Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson.
1. The Early Years with Elvis Presley
Lisa Marie Presley's connection to Elvis Presley began at a young age. She first met Michael Jackson at one of her father's Las Vegas shows when she was about six years old. Years later, when Lisa Marie was a teenager, Jackson invited her mother, Priscilla Presley, out to dinner. This early encounter laid the groundwork for their complex relationship, which would unfold in the years to come.
Lisa Marie didn't recall meeting Jackson until 1993, and they 'just clicked' immediately. She wrote that she thought he was lonely and needed a friend, but he was pursuing her. They would speak on the phone for long periods of time, and their connection was so strong that it transcended physical boundaries.
2. The Marriage to Michael Jackson
In 1994, Lisa Marie Presley and Michael Jackson tied the knot, just weeks after her divorce from her first husband, Danny Keough. The marriage was a whirlwind romance that began with Jackson's confession of love during a trip to Las Vegas. He told her, 'I don't know if you've noticed, but I'm completely in love with you. I want us to get married and for you to have my children.' Initially taken aback, Lisa Marie eventually responded, 'I'm really flattered, I can't even talk.' By then, she felt she was in love with him too.
When they started dating, Jackson revealed to Lisa Marie that he was still a virgin at the age of 35. She wrote that he had kissed Tatum O'Neal and had a brief fling with Brooke Shields, but it was never anything physical beyond a kiss. He also mentioned that Madonna had once attempted to become romantically involved with him, though nothing came of it. This revelation surprised Lisa Marie, who was in the midst of her divorce from Keough.
Their marriage lasted for over two years before they divorced in August 1996, citing 'irreconcilable differences.' Despite their efforts, the relationship ultimately ended due to various issues, including their differing views on having children. Jackson eventually married Debbie Rowe in 1996, and they share children Prince and Paris.
3. The Memoir's Insights into Lisa Marie Presley's Life
Lisa Marie Presley's memoir is not just about her relationships; it is also a deeply personal account of her life. She writes about her struggles with addiction and her experiences with heartbreak and loss. Her aim with the memoir was simple: connection. She hoped that readers could relate to her story and know they are not alone in the world.
Riley Keough, who completed her mother's memoir by listening to tapes of memories Lisa Marie left behind, adds another layer of depth to the narrative. She describes her mother as 'the best mother, a wild child, a fierce friend, an underrated artist, frank, funny, traumatized, joyous, grieving, everything that she was throughout her remarkable life.'
The memoir also touches on the family's fame and how it grew exponentially when Michael Jackson became part of their lives. Lisa Marie recalled being 'so happy' after she and Jackson tied the knot, noting that he was sober at the time. However, their happiness was short-lived as they began to fight over issues like having children.
Lisa Marie's relationship with Michael Jackson was complex and multifaceted. She recognized behaviors in him that she saw in Elvis, which caused them to fight. At one point, someone threw a plate of fruit at the other, reflecting the intensity of their arguments.
Ultimately, Lisa Marie filed for divorce after Jackson sent her away for asking too many questions about his drug use. This marked the end of their tumultuous marriage.
4. Legacy and Impact
Lisa Marie Presley's legacy extends far beyond her relationships with famous musicians. She was a strong woman who fought against the pressures of fame and family expectations. Her memoir serves as a testament to her resilience and determination to live life on her own terms.
The book's release has sparked a renewed interest in Lisa Marie Presley's life and career. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of music, family, and personal struggle.
In conclusion, From Here to the Great Unknown is more than just a memoir; it is a journey through the highs and lows of Lisa Marie Presley's extraordinary life. It offers readers a chance to connect with her story on a deep level, making it an unforgettable read.
