Wanda Jackson is a rock ‘n’ roll/country music star who debuted around the same time as Elvis Presley. During an interview, Jackson discussed why her father allowed her to date Elvis even though he didn’t trust most other men. In addition, Jackson explained why the relationship between her and the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll didn’t work out.
How Wanda Jackson met Elvis Presley early in her career
Jackson is known for songs like “Let’s Have a Party,” “You Can’t Have My Love,” and “Right or Wrong.” In a 2017 interview with Fox News, Jackson recalled touring during the early days of her career. “After I graduated from high school, I had a couple of songs by that time,” she said. “I was ready to go on tour.”
Jackson went on tour with parental supervision. “I’m an only child, so daddy decided he should go with me,” she continued. “So for the first couple of nights, we toured with a guy named Elvis Presley. I’ve never heard of him. That was in 1955.”
Why their relationship didn’t work out
Jackson had permission to hang out with the “Can’t Help Falling in Love” singer. “My daddy traveled with me,” Jackson remembered. “He wouldn’t let me go out with guys usually. But he liked Elvis really well.”
Jackson’s father felt the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll stood out from other men. “He knew Elvis was a gentleman,” Jackson said. “So he would let me go out with Elvis to a movie or for a burger afterward.”
