Card 60 - Important People and Legends

Elvis

Elvis Aaron Presley was born in Tupelo, Mississippi on January 8, 1935. He and his parents moved to Memphis, Tennessee in 1948. In Memphis, an eclectic mix of pop, country, gospel, and black R&B music influenced and shaped Elvis’ unique style and sound. In 1954, he began his singing career with Sun Records label in Memphis. It didn’t take long for Elvis to become a sensation. His sound crossed social and racial lines and was part of a new era in music and pop culture. Elvis appeared in 33 films and many television appearances. His live performances in Las Vegas and on tour often broke records. He has sold more records than any other artist – over one billion worldwide. He has earned more gold, platinum or multi-platinum awards than any other artist. He won 3 Grammies, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award at age 36, and served in the US Army. Elvis is regarded as one of the most important figures of popular culture. Elvis died on August 16, 1977 at his home, Graceland.