article_snippet: According to Martin Nolan, executive director of Julien's Auctions, Elvis and JD Sumner were 'like brothers'.
article_snippet: JD Sumner even sang at JD Sumner funeral.
article_snippet: The two became fast friends in Memphis when Elvis was living in public housing, two blocks from the auditorium where JD Sumner and the Stamps used to perform every month.
article_snippet: One month Elvis didn't show up to a gig.
article_snippet: When Elvis returned the next month JD Sumner asked about Elvis absence.
article_snippet: Elvis admitted Elvis had to skip the show because Elvis couldn't afford the 50cent ticket.
article_snippet: From then on JD Sumner let Elvis attend the shows for free.
article_snippet: The favor was returned when Sumner and the Stamps became Elvis back-up band, touring with the King from 1971 until the King death in 1977.
article_snippet: JD Sumner even sang at Elvis funeral .