Elvis Presley (1935 – 1977) was an American singer and actor, widely known as the "King of Rock and Roll". His electrifying performances and unique blend of musical influences revolutionized popular music.
Born in Tupelo, Mississippi, he moved to Memphis as a teenager. In 1954, he began recording at Sun Records, where producer Sam Phillips helped shape his raw rockabilly sound. His 1956 hit Heartbreak Hotel catapulted him to fame. His provocative dance moves and fusion of blues, gospel, and country made him both a sensation and a subject of controversy.
Drafted into the U.S. Army in 1958, he returned to music with a more polished style, dominating the charts through the 1960s. His films, including Jailhouse Rock (1957) and Viva Las Vegas (1964), enhanced his celebrity. A 1968 comeback special revived his live performance career, leading to legendary Las Vegas residencies.
Despite commercial success, his health deteriorated due to prescription drug abuse. In 1977, he died at Graceland, leaving behind one of the most enduring legacies in music history. His influence spans generations, with sales exceeding 500 million records worldwide.