elvus Presley

            Elvis Presley was one of the most famous singers and actors of the twentieth century. "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"(10, p2). He had a very interesting life that contributed to his magnificent career. The height of his career was throughout the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s. Within those thirty years, he presented new ideas to the public who just adored him. .
             Elvis Presley was born on January 8, 1935 in Tupelo, Mississippi. His middle name was either Aron or Aaron. He was born to Gladys Love Smith and Vernon Elvis Presley, both very poor people struggling to raise a family. Elvis was always surrounded by music throughout his childhood years. This music ranged from Church Gospel Groups to pop clubs in Mississippi. His wild and crazy personality contributed to his overall act.
             Elvis received his first guitar in 1946, and paid $12.95 for it.(4, p1) In 1948, his family moved from Tupelo to Memphis. He graduated from Humes High School in 1953. His career would sky rocket soon after graduation. His first band recorded music that centered on "blues, country, Tin Pan Alley Ballads, and gospel hymns." Scotty Moore and Bill Black were two of the singers in Elvis" first band. Their big breakthrough came in 1954 when Arthur "Big Boy" Crudups played "That's All Right Mama" with Presley's band. On October 16, 1954, Elvis made his first appearance on the "Louisiana Hayride," a local country radio show. At this time, Presley was 19 years old and was paid $18.00 per performance. His band had five big hits and the fifth was a national hit. The song was entitled, "Mystery Train" and was aired in 1955. .
             In August of 1955, a new manager presented himself to Elvis Presley. His name was Colonel Tom Parker and he had previously made stars of Eddy Arnold and Hank Snow.