History repeats itself! W
When I returned from Bolivia in 1972, I worked as a Limo Driver for BLS Limousine Service, on Sunset Blvd, in the heart of Hollywood.
All I had driven before was a wheat truck, but I passes the driving test. A limo is easier to drive than a big truck.
I wore a black suit, a tie, and white gloves. One of my first clients was Gladys Knight when she was with the Pips.
I also drove the Rolling Stones, one time I had all five in my Limo for an album cover shoot in downtown LA, in the heart of drugs and homelessness. I especially hit it off with Bill Wyman and his wife.
Bill would call BLS and say, " Send the Indian." I enjoyed driving them on a number of occassions.
All kinds of things go on it the back of limos. I would always tell my passengers when I first met them, especially if they were in music, although there were some actors who very wild.
"I have no sense of smell, I lost my hearing aid, so I can't hear, I hurt my neck, so I can't turn my head to see what is going on in the backseat. As well, the back window behind me rolls up. I would not do this with everyone, but all the drivers would share about what to expect from different clients.
Others I enjoyed driving were Alice Cooper and his manager, Shep Gordon. Joan Baez, Mamas and the Papa’s, and others and what was going on behind the scenes in the fulfillment of the prophecies. Carrol O'Conner was just the opposite as his character, Archie Bunker.
One time I was driving Alice Cooper, who was actually very quiet and soft spoken, and he said to me, " Some people think I am crazy, but if that is true, how about all the people who spend big money to come and see me?"
I had to laugh and agree on that one.
Another regular client that would always call for me, "managed" five different homes, in the Hollywood hills, that he would have me drive him around to, to check on his "employees." As well, he was married.
One night, he took both his mother and mother-in-law out for dinner. Of course, we had to make the rounds to visit his employees. When we would stop at each house, they paid no attention. ,
As well, he liked me to come into the resturant, and sit at his table with my suit, gloves and limo hat. I drove him a number of times, and one time he asked me if I wanted a cash tip, cocaine or the company of a young woman.
ived
I choose cash and I was given $100.00, and that was quite a bit of money in those days, and it was the best tip I ever received.
