Get rocked! The biography of Elvis Presley

Elvis Aaron Presley or more commonly known as the ‘King of Rock and Roll’ was born on January 8, 1935, in Tupelo, Mississippi. Famous for his electrifying performances that some considered sexually provocative, he is one of the most culturally significant icons of the 20^th century. Elvis Presley Biography is an inspiring and motivational source for every musician.

Unlike most songsters, Elvis never received any formal music lessons, learning to play by ear instead. He gained initial commercial success in 1956, releasing his self-titled debut album. By now, his live shows produced crazed reactions from the crowds who would go wild at the sight of his signature gyrating moves. He drew the disapproval of many critics for his antics and was dubbed ‘Elvis the Pelvis’, much to his displeasure.

An enigma by his own right, Elvis singlehandedly rocked ‘n’ rolled the post-war pop generation. His own style of rockabilly resonated with the youth of the day and still serves as an inspiration for present-day pop icons too.

Elvis Presley Biography

Full Name	Elvis Aaron Presley
Date of Birth	8-Jan-35
Birthplace	Tupelo, Mississippi, USA
Father	Vernon Elvis
Mother	Gladys Love

The Beginning

• In August 1953, he recorded his first songs, both covers – My Happiness and That’s When Your Heartaches Begin
• A recording of his version of That’s All Right become an instant hit with radio listeners
• He made his first public appearance on July 17, 1954, at the Bon Air Club
• By November 1954, he was performing on Louisiana Hayride, with a128 stations broadcasting his performances across 28 states

Breakout and Stardom

• Presley released his debut self-titled album on March 23, 1956, which topped the Billboard chart for 10 weeks
• Two appearances on NBC’s Milton Berle Show cemented his reputation for producing electrifying performances
• Landed in controversy for performing ‘extremely’ provocative moves during the show by critics and the conservative fold
• Nevertheless, the Berle Show drew very high ratings and earned him an appearance on the Steve Allen Show
• He made his film debut with Love Me Tender which was released on November 21, 1956

In the Army now

• Elvis was drafted into the US Army on March 24, 1958, as a private
• He finished basic training at Fort Hood, Texas before joining the 3^rd Armored Division overseas
• A spell in the Army did not harm his career despite his initial fears
• Between his joining and discharge, Elvis had ten Top 40 hits

Elvis Presley Later years and death

• After his discharge from the Army, Elvis focused on making films
• He made a total of 27 films in the 60s, most of which were panned by critics but virtually profitable
• A stint in Hollywood resulted in a mass unfollowing by many who viewed him as either a sell-out or a has-been
• Although he returned to his roots, recording albums and going on live tours, much of the damage had been done
• Marital woe and recurring health problems marred the final years of his life
• He passed away on the evening of August 16, 1977, hours before he was scheduled to begin a new tour

Elvis Presley Legacy

• The rockabilly style that Elvis promulgated amongst the youth helped rock and roll gain a mainstream position in America’s culture
• His style of music was a fusion of different styles and facilitated the widespread recognition and appreciation of black culture
• Even today, most singers and artists continue to label him as an inspiration

Suggested Read: Freddie Mercury: The King of Rock Music