History

Elvis Aaron Presley was born to Vernon and Gladys Presley in Tupelo, Mississippi on January 8, 1935. In 1954, Presley began his career as one of the first performers of rockabilly. He discovered up tempo fusion of country and rhythm and blues with a strong back beat. He became popular and even controversial with his novel versions of existing songs, with his innovative merge of "black" and "white" sounds. He has to his credit many of his uninhibited stage and television performances. He recorded songs in the rock and roll genre, with tracks like "Hound Dog" and "Jailhouse Rock" later embodying the style. Presley had a versatile voice and had unusually wide success encompassing other genres, including gospel, blues, ballads and pop. To date, he has been inducted into four music halls of fame.

Elvis Presley is the undisputed King of Rock and Roll. He rose from the humble circumstances to launch he rock and roll revolution with his commanding voice and charismatic stage presence. In 1954, he began his singing career with the legendary Sun Records label in Memphis. In late 1955, his recording contract was sold to RCA Victor. By 1956, he was an international sensation. He has starred in 33 successful films and has sold over one billion records. His American sales have earned him gold, platinum or multi-platinum awards for 150 different albums and singles. Among his many awards and accolades were 14 Grammy nominations (3 wins) from the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences. He received Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award at the age of 36. He was named one of the “Ten Outstanding Young Men of the Nation” for 1970 by the United States Jaycees. He honorably served his country in the U.S. Army.

In 1960 and 1996 Elvis Presley won “Sour Apple” award for the Least Cooperative Actor. In 1966 he won “Golden Laurel award for Musical Performance in the Male category. For the same award in 1963 he won the second place, in 1965 he won the third place.

In the words of the historical marker that stands outside the house where he was born: “Presley’s career as a singer and entertainer redefined popular music.”