Known as the King of Rock and Roll,he left an indelible mark on the music industry and popular culture. Born on January 8, 1935, in Tupelo, Mississippi, he rose to unprecedented fame in the 1950s and continues to be an iconic figure decades after his death.
Presley’s unique voice, charismatic stage presence, and blend of musical genres made him a trailblazer in the industry.
Below are 15 facts about Elvis Presley, each shedding light on the life and legacy of this remarkable entertainer.
Elvis Presley Facts
1. The Birthplace of Elvis Presley in Tupelo, Mississippi, is Now a Museum
Elvis Presley was born in a two-room house in Tupelo, Mississippi. This house is now a museum, attended by fans from around the world.
Visitors can explore the modest home and learn about Elvis’s humble beginnings. It’s a testament to his journey from poverty to stardom.
2. Elvis Presley Had a Twin Brother Who Died at Birth
Elvis was not an only child; he had a twin brother named Jesse Garon Presley, who tragically died during childbirth. This event had a profound impact on Elvis and his family, shaping him in ways that biographers often speculate about.
He grew up as the only child of Vernon and Gladys Presley, receiving all of their attention and love. Many believe this loss affected Elvis’s personality and career.
3. The Very First Song Elvis Presley Recorded was for His Mother
At the age of 18, Elvis walked into Sun Records to record a personal song for his mother’s birthday. The song was “My Happiness,” and it was a demonstration of his love and appreciation for her. This moment marked the beginning of his musical career, though he did not know it at the time.
Sam Phillips, the owner of Sun Records, took notice of Elvis, setting the stage for his future success.
4. Elvis Presley Served in the U.S. Army
In 1958, at the height of his fame, Elvis was drafted into the U.S. Army. He served for two years, mostly stationed in Germany.
During this time, he continued to receive fan mail and adoration, signifying his enduring popularity. His service was marked by tragedy when his beloved mother passed away, deeply affecting him.
5. The Graceland Mansion of Elvis Presley in Memphis, Tennessee, Is One of the Most Visited Private Homes in America
Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley, is a mansion on a 13.8-acre estate in Memphis, Tennessee. Opened to the public in 1982, it has become a pilgrimage site for fans. It showcases Elvis’s life, career, and personal style.
Visitors can tour the mansion, see his car collection, and even visit his resting place in the Meditation Garden.
6. Elvis Presley Was a Black Belt in Karate
Elvis took up karate during his time in the army, training diligently to achieve a black belt. Karate influenced not just his fitness regime but also his performances, with some of his on-stage moves reflecting martial arts maneuvers.
He was passionate about the discipline, incorporating its principles into his life.
His interest was so intense that he even considered opening a chain of karate schools.
7. The Signature Hairstyle and Sideburns of Elvis Presley Became Trendsetting
Elvis’s hair, a jet-black pompadour, and his distinctive sideburns became symbols of his rock and roll image. He was meticulous about his appearance, using dye to achieve the perfect shade.
Fans and imitators alike copied his style, making it an enduring part of his legacy.
His look captured the rebellious spirit of the youth of the 1950s.
8. The Hit Song “Can’t Help Falling in Love” Was Based on a French Love Song
One of Elvis’s most famous songs, “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” was inspired by “Plaisir d’Amour,” an 18th-century French love song.
The adaptation for Elvis was penned by George Weiss, Hugo Peretti, and Luigi Creatore. It became one of his signature songs, showcasing his ability to convey deep emotion.
This song further solidified his place as a versatile performer, capable of crossing genre boundaries.
9. Elvis Presley Won Only Three Grammy Awards, All for His Gospel Music
Despite his revolutionary impact on music and culture, Elvis won just three Grammy Awards, and they were all for his gospel recordings. This speaks to his deep love for gospel music, something that profoundly influenced his musical style.
These awards highlight a different side of the rock and roll legend, showcasing his range and depth as a musician.
His gospel performances continue to be celebrated and admired by fans of all genres.
10. Elvis Presley Never Performed Outside of North America
Though he was a global superstar, Elvis never held a concert outside the United States and Canada. This was primarily due to his manager, Colonel Tom Parker, who was an illegal immigrant and feared he wouldn’t be allowed back into the U.S. if they left.
Fans around the world never had the chance to see him perform live.
11. The Aloha from Hawaii Concert Was the First to Be Broadcast Live via Satellite
In 1973, Elvis made history with his concert “Aloha from Hawaii,” which was the first-ever concert to be broadcast live via satellite. This groundbreaking event was watched by over 1.5 billion people worldwide.
It demonstrated not just his immense popularity but also the potential of satellite technology in broadcasting.
12. Elvis Presley’s Daughter, Lisa Marie Presley, Married Michael Jackson
In a union that shocked the world, Lisa Marie Presley, Elvis’s only daughter, married pop star Michael Jackson in 1994. Their marriage was highly publicized but ended in divorce in 1996.
Their relationship continues to be a subject of fascination for fans and the media.
13. Elvis Loved Comic Books and Was a Hero Fan
From a young age, Elvis was a huge fan of comic books. His favorite superhero was Captain Marvel Jr., from whom he borrowed certain elements for his on-stage persona, including the cape and distinctive hairstyles.
These influences are visible in his later performances and public appearances. His love of comics reflects the playful and imaginative side of his personality.
14. The Estate of Elvis Presley Continues to Earn Millions Each Year
Decades after his death, Elvis Presley’s estate continues to generate significant income. It comes from music royalties, Graceland admissions, licensing deals, and merchandise.
This enduring financial success showcases his continued relevance and the timeless appeal of his music and image.
Elvis Presley Enterprises manages these assets, ensuring his legacy endures.
15. The “Elvis Has Left the Building” Phrase Was Originally Used to Disperse Crowds After His Concerts
The phrase “Elvis has left the building” was first used by announcer Horace Logan during Elvis’s early concerts to encourage fans to leave after the show had ended.
It has since become a part of popular culture, indicating that an event or performance has concluded.
Its origin reflects the immense popularity and frenetic energy that surrounded Elvis wherever he went.
Today, it serves as a reminder of his unparalleled impact on the music world and beyond.
FAQs
Why is Elvis Presley called the King of Rock and Roll?
Elvis is dubbed the King of Rock and Roll because of his profound impact on the genre and the music industry. He brought a unique blend of genres and a charismatic performance style that revolutionized rock music.
His influence on other artists and enduring popularity among fans of all ages cement his title.
How many movies did Elvis Presley act in?
Elvis Presley starred in 31 movies during his career. These films, while not always critically acclaimed, were commercial successes, showcasing his versatility as a performer
Did Elvis Presley write any of his songs?
While Elvis Presley was a gifted vocalist and performer, he did not write the majority of his songs.
He had a keen ear for potential hits and worked with a range of songwriters and producers to craft his music. His interpretive talent made many songs his own, even though he was not their author.
What was Elvis Presley’s first hit song?
Elvis Presley’s first hit song was “That’s All Right,” recorded in 1954 at Sun Records. It was a cover of a blues song by Arthur Crudup, and it marked the beginning of Elvis’s rise to fame.
The song’s success on local radio stations propelled him into the national spotlight.
How did Elvis Presley die?
Elvis Presley died on August 16, 1977, at his Graceland home in Memphis, Tennessee. He was found unresponsive on his bathroom floor and pronounced dead at a local hospital.
The cause of death was a heart attack, which was likely related to his prescription drug use and health issues. His death at the age of 42 shocked the world and left a void in the music industry that is still felt today.