-
Childhood
Born to Vernon and Gladys Presley, Elvis grew up in Tupelo, Mississippi. His twin brother, Jessie, was stillborn leaving Elvis as an only child. His parents were low-class workers and brought in little money. Throughout his childhood, Elvis and his family moved frequently from place to place. ("Elvis Presley Biography")
Picture: ("Elvis Presley" Sun) -
His Big Break
After graduating from Humes high school--Memphis, Tennessee--in 1953, Elvis worked a variety of jobs while perusing his musical dream. After about a year, Elvis cut his first demo record with Sun Studio ("Elvis Presley" Sun). It wasn't long before Sam Phillips, the record label owner, offered Elvis a deal. The young performer began touring and recording, trying to catch his first big break. He released his first single, "That's All Right", at the end of 1954 ("Elvis Presley Biography"). -
First Number One Hit
As Elvis pushed forward in his career, he developed a growing fan base due to his unusual performance style and good looks. In mid 1955, he signed with RCA records and developed his first No.1 Single "Heartbreak Hotel " which was featured on his first No.1 album “Elvis Presley”("Elvis Presley Biography"). -
Becoming The King
Soon, Presley was everywhere. He was offered parts in movies, TV shows, and was even the guest of honor on some popular late night talk shows such as "Hy Gardner Calling!". He became a working musician and actor over night. "Love Me Tender", his first film, became a box office hit. The following year, Elvis received a Draft notice and was forced to temporally give up his growing fame ("Elvis Presley Biography"). -
Nixion-Presley Meeting
Near the end of his career, Elvis wrote President Nixon a six-paged letter requesting a meeting between the two of them and "suggesting that he be made a 'Federal Agent-at-Large' in the Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs" ("The Nixon-Presley Meeting"). The meeting was granted and Elvis went to the White House and was properly introduced to Richard Nixon (see photo). This is one of Elvis' greatest accomplishments. -
Downfall and Death
In the last years of his life, Elvis developed an addiction to prescription drugs. He was hospitalized multiple times for drug related heath problems. Presley died of heart failure at the age of 42. He was found inside his home. The death was later ruled as drug related. "The King" was buried at Graceland property and was honored at his funeral for his amazing career in rock 'n' roll music ("Elvis Presley Biography").
