Memphis Draws Elvis Fans to Graceland
Presley’s Home Chronicles Rock ‘n’ Roller’s Career
Jul 15, 2009
Elvis fans enthusiastically tour the mansion, the grounds, Colonel Tom Parker's office, Elvis' trophy room, his grave, car museum, even his custom jet, the "Lisa Marie." When in Memphis, the tour is a "must."
Elvis Presley's Teenage Years
Elvis Aaron Presley was born January 8, 1935, in a two-room house in Tupelo, Mississippi. When he was 14, he and his parents moved to Memphis, where Elvis graduated from Humes High School in 1953.
Gospel and R&B Influence Elvis' Music
His musical influences were the pop and country music of the time, the gospel music he heard in church, the all-night gospel fests he frequently attended, and the black rhythm and blues music he absorbed on historic Beale Street as a teenager.
In 1954, he began his singing career, recording his first song, "That's Alright Mama," for the legendary Sun Records label in Memphis. In late 1955, his recording contract was sold to RCA Victor, where he produced his first million-selling single and his first gold record, "Heartbreak Hotel."
Elvis' Music Begins New Era
By 1956, he was an international sensation with a sound and style that combined his diverse musical influences. He made his first network television appearance in January on "Stage Show," hosted by Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey. His music blurred and challenged the social and racial barriers of the time, as he ushered in a whole new era of American music and popular culture.
Ed Sullivan and Vegas Welcome Elvis
Elvis starred in 33 successful films (singing in all but one of them), made history with his television appearances and specials (who can forget the above-the-waist-only camera shots on "The Ed Sullivan Show"), and knew great acclaim through his many, often record-breaking, live concerts and appearances in Las Vegas.
Globally, he sold over one billion records, more than any other artist, and his American sales have earned him gold, platinum, or multi-platinum awards for 150 different albums and singles. His awards and accolades range from 14 Grammy nominations to being named "One of the Ten Outstanding Young Men of the Nation for 1970" by the Jaycees. Without any of the special privileges his celebrity status might have afforded him, he honorably served in the U.S. Army.
Elvis Buys Graceland in 1957
His talent, good looks, sensuality, charisma, and good humor endeared him to millions, as did the humility and kindness he demonstrated throughout his life. In 1957, Elvis bought his beloved Graceland a 14-acre estate located a few miles outside of Memphis, for $100,00. Known the world over by his first name, he is regarded as one of the most important figures of twentieth century popular culture. He died at Graceland on August 16, 1977. Elvis and his parents are buried on the property and visitors often bring flowers to the grave site making it a virtual shrine to the Presley family.
The house was opened to the public in 1982 and is the second most visited private residence in America after the White House. Most of the interior of the house remains as it was when Elvis lived here, complete with shag rugs and over-the-top furnishings.
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