Elvis’ musical influences were the pop and country music of the time, 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 historic Beale Street as a Memphis teenager.
In 1954, Elvis 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. 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.
He starred in 33 successful films, made history with his television appearances and specials, and knew great acclaim through his many, often record-breaking, live concert performances on tour and in Las Vegas. Globally, he has sold over one billion records, more than any other artist. His American sales have earned him gold, platinum or multi-platinum awards. Among his many awards and accolades were 14 Grammy nominations (3 wins) from the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences, the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award which he received at age 36, and his being named One of the Ten Outstanding Young Men of the Nation for 1970 by the United States Jaycees. Without any of the special privileges, his celebrity status might have afforded him, he honorably served his country in the U.S. Army.
His talent, good looks, sensuality, charisma, and good humor 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.
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I first heard Elvis's amazing voice on the night of Christmas eve 2000. I was 8 and I fell in love with the music. My grandma was a huge fan and she has all his records. If you really want to hear amazing, I recomend buying a record player and albums. They are way better sound quality then cds...by far!
So I've listened to his music a lot growing up...I now own most of his movies, & over the years I have collected 300 albums and cds. I have loved him from the first second I heard him on that Christmas eve night...I hope to hear his music played for the rest of my life and it wouldn't be Christmas without Elvis playing in the back ground!
Music is a big part of my life...it sure wouldn't be the same without a little Elvis and Paul Stanley in my day. And I really think music can make you feel better...Elvis's music does that for me. So if your having a bad day just try listen to Burning love, Devil in Disguise, or Blue Suede Shoes and not smile! Sometimes a little Elvis is all you need. ^__^ x0x0x
