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Introduction
Linda Thompson, former Miss Tennessee Universe and Grammy-nominated lyricist famed for co-writing Whitney Houston’s “I Have Nothing,” recently shared heartfelt reflections on her romantic relationship with Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll. Marking the 53rd anniversary of their first meeting on July 6, 1972, Thompson took to Instagram to reveal rare intimate photos and personal memories, reigniting public fascination with one of Elvis’s most significant relationships.
A Meeting That Changed Everything
Thompson met Elvis at the Memphian Theater in Memphis, Tennessee, where Elvis had rented the venue for private late-night film screenings. At 22 years old, Linda described herself as a “good Southern Baptist girl” and initially kept her distance, unaware that Elvis’s separation from Priscilla Presley was not yet public knowledge.
“I felt an immediate kinship,” she recalled, expressing sorrow over Elvis’s marital troubles and telling him, “You should have married a southern girl.” This empathy sparked a connection that blossomed into a deeply affectionate relationship lasting four and a half years.
Life Together and Lasting Memories
During their time together, Linda lived with Elvis at Graceland and accompanied him on tours, capturing moments of their life on the road in limousines and private planes. The couple’s romance endured until less than a year before Elvis’s untimely death in August 1977.
To commemorate their shared history, Thompson shared 19 rare photos from their time together, offering fans an intimate glimpse into their bond. These images and memories, widely covered by Parade and Yahoo, highlight the depth of their relationship beyond the public eye.
Legacy and Ongoing Connection
In her Instagram tribute, Thompson wrote, “On this date, July 6, 1972, I met the man who would change my life forever,” reflecting on the enduring impact of their connection. Her upcoming participation in Elvis Week at Graceland in August 2025 further underscores her continued ties to the Presley family, including a touching recent photo with Elvis’s daughter, Lisa Marie Presley.
Historical Perspective
Though Thompson’s recent revelations provide fresh insight, her relationship with Elvis has been explored in past interviews and her memoir A Little Thing Called Life. These earlier accounts shed light on Elvis’s health struggles during their relationship, shaped by prescription pill abuse and extreme diets, adding context to the challenges they faced together.
Linda Thompson’s reflections remind us of a poignant chapter in Elvis Presley’s life, showcasing a love marked by empathy, loyalty, and lasting influence—one that continues to resonate decades later.