Elvis Presley |
Elvis Presley: The King of Rock and RollElvis Presley was one of the most famous and influential singers in American history. He was born on January 8, 1935, in Tupelo, Mississippi, to Vernon and Gladys Presley. Elvis grew up in a small house with little money, but he was always surrounded by music. As a child, he went to church regularly and loved to sing gospel songs. Early Life and MusicWhen Elvis was 11 years old, he received his first guitar. He taught himself to play by watching others and practicing every day. His family later moved to Memphis, Tennessee, where Elvis was exposed to a wide variety of music styles, including blues, country, and gospel. These different sounds would help shape his own musical style. Rise to FameIn 1954, Elvis recorded his first song with Sun Records. His mix of country, blues, and rhythm and blues created a brand new sound—rock and roll. With his unique voice, exciting style, and energetic dance moves, Elvis quickly became a star. His first big hit was “Heartbreak Hotel” in 1956. Soon after, he appeared on television and became known for his shaking hips and bold stage presence. Many teenagers loved him, but some adults thought his moves were shocking at the time. Movies and Military ServiceElvis also became a movie star. He acted in over 30 films, including Jailhouse Rock and Viva Las Vegas. Even while serving in the U.S. Army from 1958 to 1960, his popularity remained strong. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, he continued to perform and record music. His famous comeback special in 1968 reminded fans that he was still one of the greatest performers in the world. LegacyElvis lived much of his adult life in Graceland, his large home in Memphis. Sadly, on August 16, 1977, Elvis Presley died at the age of 42. His death was a shock to fans around the world. Today, Elvis is remembered as the “King of Rock and Roll.” His music and style changed American culture and inspired many other musicians. Millions of people still visit Graceland each year to celebrate his life and legacy. Discussion Questions
Glossary
Early LifeElvis Presley was born on January 8, 1935, in Tupelo, Mississippi. He grew up in a poor but loving family. His parents, Vernon and Gladys, worked hard to take care of him. Elvis enjoyed music from a young age and often sang in church. He got his first guitar when he was 11 years old and began teaching himself how to play. Rise to FameIn 1954, Elvis recorded a song at Sun Studio in Memphis. People liked his mix of country, blues, and gospel music. He had a special voice and a fun way of moving on stage that made him popular. His first big hit was "Heartbreak Hotel" in 1956, and soon he was known as the "King of Rock and Roll." Big SuccessElvis became very famous. He appeared on TV and in movies. Teenagers loved his music and style. He made many hit songs like "Hound Dog" and "Jailhouse Rock." In 1958, he joined the U.S. Army for two years. After he returned, he kept performing and making music. Later Years and LegacyElvis continued to sing and perform in concerts, especially in Las Vegas. He also lived at a house called Graceland in Memphis. Sadly, Elvis died on August 16, 1977, when he was 42 years old. Even though he is gone, his music and style are still popular today. He changed music forever and is remembered as one of the greatest performers in history. |
