Who Was Elvis Presley? The King of Rock and Roll

Who Was Elvis Presley? (Who Was?)

by Geoff Edgers

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4762 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	103 pages

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Elvis Presley was an American singer and actor who is regarded as one of the most significant cultural figures of the 20th century. He is often referred to as the "King of Rock and Roll", or simply "the King". Presley's career began in 1954 when he signed with Sun Records. He quickly rose to fame with his unique blend of country, blues, and rhythm and blues. In 1956, he signed with RCA Victor and released his first hit single, "Heartbreak Hotel". Presley's success continued throughout the 1950s and 1960s, with hit songs such as "Hound Dog", "Jailhouse Rock", and "Love Me Tender". He also starred in several successful films, including "Love Me Tender" (1956),"Jailhouse Rock" (1957),and "Viva Las Vegas" (1964).

Presley's career declined in the late 1960s and 1970s, but he remained a popular performer until his death in 1977. He is buried at Graceland, his home in Memphis, Tennessee.

Early life

Elvis Presley was born on January 8, 1935, in Tupelo, Mississippi. He was the son of Vernon Presley and Gladys Love Presley. Elvis had a twin brother, Jesse Garon, who died at birth. Elvis's family was poor, and they lived in a two-room house. Elvis's father worked as a sharecropper, and his mother worked in a factory. Elvis began singing in church at a young age. He also learned to play the guitar. In 1948, Elvis's family moved to Memphis, Tennessee. Elvis attended Humes High School. He was a shy and introverted student. Elvis began performing at local talent shows. In 1953, Elvis met Sam Phillips, the owner of Sun Records. Phillips was impressed with Elvis's voice and stage presence. He signed Elvis to a recording contract.

Career

Elvis's first single, "That's All Right", was released in 1954. The song was a regional hit. Elvis's next single, "Good Rockin' Tonight", was a national hit. In 1956, Elvis signed with RCA Victor. His first single for RCA, "Heartbreak Hotel", was a number one hit. Elvis quickly became one of the most popular singers in the world. He starred in several successful films, including "Love Me Tender" (1956),"Jailhouse Rock" (1957),and "Viva Las Vegas" (1964). Elvis also served in the U.S. Army from 1958 to 1960.

Elvis's career declined in the late 1960s and 1970s. He became addicted to prescription drugs. Elvis also gained weight. In 1973, Elvis gave a series of concerts in Hawaii. The concerts were a huge success, but Elvis's health was failing. Elvis died on August 16, 1977, at Graceland. He was only 42 years old.

Legacy

Elvis Presley is one of the most significant cultural figures of the 20th century. He is often referred to as the "King of Rock and Roll". Elvis's music and style had a profound impact on popular culture. He is considered one of the greatest singers of all time.

Elvis Presley's legacy continues to live on. His music is still popular today. Graceland, his home in Memphis, Tennessee, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world. Elvis Presley is a true American icon.

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Who Was Elvis Presley? (Who Was?)

by Geoff Edgers

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4762 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	103 pages

FREE