lvis Aaron Presley, known the world over by just his first name, is regarded as one of the most important figures in 20th century music and popular culture. He permanently altered the landscape of American music with a sound and style that uniquely combined diverse and seemingly disparate musical influences. In the process, he ushered in a music revolution that triggered a cultural transformation.
Elvis was passionate about an extensive and varied array of music. His influences included the pop ballads and country music of his day, the gospel music he heard in church and at the all-night gospel sings he frequently attended, and the black R&B he absorbed on Memphis’ historic Beale Street as a teenager. His aspiration was to take the music that affected him and make it his own. Nobody could have predicted how successfully Elvis would achieve his ambition, or the impact he would have on music and society. He meshed a diversity of musical influences, creating a sound and style that had never been heard or seen. In the process, he became the first genuine Rock & Roll icon, providing a new generation with a unique sound to call its own.
Today, 26 years after his death, his success as an artist stands untouched and Elvis Presley remains the undisputed King of Rock & Roll®. He is the only person to become a member of all three music halls of fame, including rock & roll, country and gospel. His American sales have earned him gold, platinum AND multi-platinum awards for 140 different albums and singles, far more than any other artist.
In the process, he ushered in an era that triggered a cultural revolution.
In the process, he ushered in an era that triggered a cultural revolution.