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Who was Charlie Hodge?
Charlie Hodge was an American singer, guitarist, pianist, and actor who was best known for being a close friend and confidant of Elvis Presley. He worked with Presley for 17 years, from 1960 to 1977, as a backup vocalist, rhythm guitarist, stage manager, and personal assistant. He was also the man who handed Presley water and scarves onstage during his live performances.
Hodge was born in Decatur, Alabama, on December 14, 1934. He began his musical career at age 17 in a gospel quartet called The Path Finders, with Bill Gaither. He later joined The Foggy River Boys, a popular gospel group that appeared on the ABC-TV show Ozark Jubilee. He first met Presley in 1955, when Presley came backstage after a show in Memphis, Tennessee. They met again in 1958, when they were both serving in the Army at Fort Hood, Texas. They became friends and Hodge accompanied Presley to Germany, where Presley met his future wife, Priscilla.
After their military service, Presley hired Hodge as a member of his entourage, nicknamed the “Memphis Mafia”. Hodge lived at Graceland, Presley’s mansion, and was involved in many aspects of Presley’s career and personal life. He sang harmony for Presley on many songs, including “I Will Be Home Again”, which they recorded as a duet in 1960. He also played the piano on the song “Suppose”. He helped Presley choose songs to record and perform, and was in charge of presenting songs to Presley that were submitted by music publishers. He also appeared in some of Presley’s movies, such as Follow That Dream, Fun in Acapulco, and Viva Las Vegas.
Hodge was with Presley when he died at Graceland on August 16, 1977. He was one of the pallbearers at Presley’s funeral. After Presley’s death, Hodge continued to perform at shows dedicated to Presley’s memory, and wrote a book about his friendship with Presley, titled Elvis ‘N Me, which was published in 1988.
Charlie Hodge Cause of Death: How Did He Die?
According to Billboard, Charlie Hodge cause of death was lung cancer. He died on March 3, 2006, at age 71, in a hospital in Knoxville, Tennessee. He was diagnosed with lung cancer in October 2005, and underwent radiation therapy. Despite his illness, he continued to perform at Memories Theatres in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, for the love of his fans. He also gave interviews and attended events related to Presley’s legacy.
Hodge is survived by his wife, Jennifer, whom he married in 1993. He also had a son, Charles Jr., from a previous marriage. He was buried at the Grandview Cemetery in Maryville, Tennessee, near his home. His grave marker reads: “Charlie Hodge. Singer. Guitarist. Friend of Elvis Presley.”
Charlie Hodge Legacy: How Is He Remembered?
Charlie Hodge is remembered as one of Presley’s most loyal and devoted friends, who shared his passion for music and gospel. He is also regarded as a talented and versatile musician, who could sing, play, and act. He contributed to many of Presley’s recordings and performances, and was a witness to many of Presley’s milestones and challenges. He was also a humble and generous person, who loved his fans and appreciated their support.
Hodge has been honored and recognized by many organizations and institutions for his role in Presley’s life and career. He was inducted into the Alabama Music Hall of Fame in 1997, and received the Elvis Presley Memorial Award in 2004. He was also featured in several documentaries and books about Presley, such as Elvis by the Presleys, Elvis and Me, and Elvis: What Happened?.
Hodge’s fans and admirers have created websites, social media pages, and tribute shows to celebrate his life and music. They have also visited his grave and left flowers, cards, and memorabilia. Hodge’s voice and guitar can still be heard on many of Presley’s songs, and his presence can still be felt on Presley’s stage. He is a part of Presley’s legacy, and a part of rock and roll history.