Offaly woman recalls first time hearing Elvis Presley

MAY McFadden from Kinnitty recently met with Priscilla Presley during her visit to Ireland and shared her vivid memory of hearing Elvis’ voice for the very first time.

As a teenager, 70 years ago, she heard the song “I Forgot to Remember to Forget” on the radio. Turning to her mother, Mary Donogher, she asked who was singing. “Some American by the name of Elvis Presley,” her mother replied.

May told Priscilla it was another five years before she discovered Elvis' good looks, only after moving to Manchester.

Also at the event was May's son, John, a Music Industry Lecturer and Teacher. He noted that his career choice was undoubtedly shaped by his mother’s musical influence.

John recalled that the last time he and his mother met Priscilla was at a music industry event - a press conference for the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum in Memphis where Priscilla was the special guest. John added, one of Priscilla's friends, John Doyle ensured his mother had a seat with Memphis royalty, the Lansky family who made Elvis' clothes.

Both mother and son described Priscilla Presley as “a lady full of humour, kindness and great stories.”

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