The Music
Elvis Presley

Elvis Aaron Presley, in the humblest of circumstances, was born to Vernon and Gladys Presley, in Mississippi on January 8, 1935.

Elvis' musical influences were pop, country music, and gospel music, and the black R&B he absorbed on historic Beale Street as a Memphis teenager. In 1954, he began his singing career with the legendary Sun Records label in Memphis. In 1955, his recording contract was sold to RCA Victor. By 1956, he was an international sensation.

With a sound and style that uniquely combined his diverse musical influences and blurred and challenged the social and racial barriers of the time, he ushered in a whole new era of American music and popular culture. Globally, he has sold over one billion records, more than any other artist. Among his many awards and accolades he received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award at age 36.

His talent, charisma, and good humour endeared him to millions, as did the humility and human kindness he demonstrated throughout his life. Known the world over by his first name, he is regarded as one of the most important figures of twentieth century popular culture. Elvis died at his Memphis home, Graceland, on August 16, 1977.