Music 90 years of Elvis Presley: the life and legacy of the King of Rock From his birth in a simple house in Mississippi to the title of King of Rock, Elvis Presley’s career revolutionized music and popular culture By Editorial Staff

Today, January 8, 2025, Elvis Presley would have turned 90 years old. Born in 1935 in Tupelo, Mississippi, Elvis Aaron Presley grew up in a humble and close family. Elvis’ birth was marked by tragedy: his twin brother, Jessie Garon, was stillborn. This loss and financial difficulties shaped his childhood, lived in a simple environment, but full of musical influences that would transform his life and global culture.

In 1948, Elvis and his family moved to Memphis, Tennessee in search of a better life. It was there that the young man began to absorb the blues, gospel and country that surrounded him, while working small jobs to help around the house. At the age of 11, he received his first guitar, a gift that would transform his career. During his adolescence, the future star stood out for his unique look, with long hair and sideburns, and for his musical ability, which led him to win a talent contest in high school.

Elvis’ career officially began in 1954 when he recorded That’s All Right at Sun Records studios in Memphis. The following year his contract was sold to RCA Records, and by 1956 he had become an international sensation with hits such as Heartbreak Hotel. His mix of musical genres challenged social and racial barriers at the time, consolidating a new style that defined rock and roll.

Throughout his career, Elvis starred in 31 filmslike Jailhouse Rock and Love Me Tenderand sold more than a billion records worldwide, a record that remains unmatched. Among his musical achievements are 14 Grammy nominations, with three wins, all for gospel music albums, and the prestigious Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, received at age 36. Despite his fame, he also served in the United States Army between 1958 and 1960, a gesture that reinforced his popularity.

The 1960s were marked by his transition to Hollywood, but also by a certain distance from the music scene. It was in 1968 that Elvis made his iconic Comeback Speciala television show that reignited his music career and showed the world that he was still the King of Rock. In the 1970s, his shows in Las Vegas and the special Aloha from Hawaiibroadcast via satellite to more than 40 countries, cemented his status as one of the biggest stars of all time.

Despite his enormous success, Elvis’ personal life was marked by challenges. His marriage to Priscilla Presley ended in 1973, and in recent years, he faced health problems and drug addiction. Still, his passion for music never waned, and he continued to perform until his untimely death on August 16, 1977, in Gracelandhis famous mansion in Memphis.

Today, Elvis’ legacy is celebrated around the world. Graceland has become one of the most visited tourist destinations in the United States, and its contributions to music and popular culture continue to inspire artists and fans. Known only by his first name, Elvis Presley remains one of the greatest cultural icons of the 20th century, the eternal King of Rock.