D.J. Fontana, Elvis's drummer in the 1950's

D.J. Fontana, Elvis's drummer in the 1950's, once stated that neither Elvis nor any member of the band knew the extent of Elvis's popularity. They were constantly on the road, and didn't read the local papers or listen to the news. They did not know if people were talking about them or if critics reviewed their shows. Since Elvis liked to travel at night, moving from one city and state to another, they never stayed in one place long enough to hear the public's reaction.

The boys were certain of only two things: they performed in secondary clubs all over the South, and they traveled thousands of miles to get to their gigs. They never had a chance to celebrate their star status and never took time to enjoy themselves. Each club date meant several hundred miles of driving, grueling work and perhaps a sleepless night.

Elvis was warned several times to slow down, but he never listened. His motto was: " Perform more shows, make more money." He eventually collapsed form exhaustion and had to be hospitalized. After two days, he felt rejunivated and resumed his hectic schedule