Elvis Presley: News

Elvis Presley was not only a rock and roll legend, he was also one of those people who shaped the 20th century. It was no accident that he was called the ‘King of Rock and Roll.’ His music challenged racial stereotypes that existed in 20th century America. Born on January 8, 1935, in Mississippi, Presley was influenced by church music as a child. In 1948, he moved with his parents to Memphis. It was in Memphis that he got his first taste of R&B. In 1954, he released his first single ‘That’s All Right Mama’ with Sun Records label. That along with ‘Blue Moon of Kentucky,’ ‘Good Rockin’ Tonight,’ ‘Baby Let’s Play House,’ and ‘Mystery Train’ are usually associated with the beginning of rockabilly music. Many consider these songs, a mix of R&B, country, and pop, to be the foundation of rock and roll. Sun Records sold Presley’s contract to RCA in 1955. Purists consider a dip in the quality of his music during his time with RCA due to him being too focused on success. Presley’s meteoric rise to the status of a cultural icon meant that Hollywood came calling for him as well. In 1956, he made his acting debut in the film ‘Love me Tender.’ He went to act in 32 more films. He was drafted into the military in 1958. It was during his posting in Germany that he met his future wife Priscilla Presley aka Priscilla Ann Wagner. Presley died on August 16, 1977.