Winter Garden Magazine January 2015 | Page 8

Happy Birthday to the king We dedicate page 8 of this month’s issue to none other than the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Elvis Presley. Why you ask? Elvis Aaron Presley’s birthday is January 8th! The amazing story of Elvis’ life began when he was born to Vernon and Gladys Presley in Tupelo, Mississippi, on January 8, 1935. His twin brother, Jessie Garon, was stillborn, leaving Elvis to grow up as an only child. In 1948, he and his parents moved to Memphis, Tennessee, where Elvis graduated from Humes High School in 1953.  Elvis’ musical inspirations were pop and country music of the time, the gospel music he heard in church and at the all-night gospel sings he often attended, and the black R&B he absorbed while spending time historic Beale Street as a Memphis teen.  Elvis started his singing career with the Sun Records in Memphis In 1954. Later the following year, RCA Victor purchased his recording contract. By 1956, he was an international sensation. 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.  He starred in 33 successful films, made history with his television appearances and specials, and knew great acclaim through his many, often record-breaking, live concert performances on tour and in Las Vegas. His talent, good looks, sensuality, charisma, and good humor endeared him to millions, as did the humility and human kindness he demonstrated throughout his life. Known the world over by his first name, he is regarded as one of the most important figures of twentieth century popular culture. Elvis died at his Memphis home, Graceland, on August 16, 1977. 8  |  WINTER GARDEN MAGAZINE  |  JANUARY 2015