Elvis Presley
American singer and actor (1935–1977)
Elvis Presley: from Sun Records to a new pop language
A Memphis recording becomes a turning point
Presley recorded “That’s All Right” at Sun in 1954, with producer Sam Phillips, guitarist Scotty Moore and bassist Bill Black. His blend of country and Black American rhythm-and-blues traditions reached a mass audience. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame places that early recording at the start of his cultural breakthrough.
Records, television and the cinema
“Heartbreak Hotel” became his first US number-one single in 1956. That year he also appeared in Love Me Tender, beginning a screen career that included Jailhouse Rock and Blue Hawaii. His highly visible performances made rock and roll a subject of public debate as well as commercial excitement.
From army service to later recognition
Presley served in the US Army from 1958 until 1960. His recording career continued afterward, and “Suspicious Minds” became a defining late-1960s hit. The Recording Academy records three Grammy wins, all in gospel-related categories; the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inducted him in its inaugural class of 1986.
Data and sources
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame — Elvis Presley ↗