Elvis Aaron Presley was born to Vernon and Gladys Presley in a two room house in Tupelo Mississippi on January 8, 1935. He was born with a twin called Jessie Garon, but unfortunately Jessie was still born. Vernon and Gladys had no more children leaving Elvis to be raised as an only child. In 1948 the Presley family moved to Memphis Tennessee and Elvis graduated from Humes High School in 1953.

Elvis found his musical influences form pop, country music of the time, and also the gospel music he heard at church. In 1954 Elvis began his singing career with the legendary Sun Records label based in Memphis Tennessee. This recording contract was then sold to RCA Victor in 1955. The following year Elvis had become and international sensation.

His sound was extremely unique and combined his diverse musical influences that broke down the barriers between social and racial classes of the time. He was the birth of a whole new era for American pop music and music across the world as a whole.

Elvis starred in 33 hugely successful films with numerous television appearances and specials. He also frequently had record breaking live concerts on tour and often in Las Vegas. Elvis has sold more records than any other artist in history with over one billion total sales. He had 14 Grammy nominations with 3 wins, the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.>

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.