The King

Essay by silverfox_006College, UndergraduateA-, April 2004

download word file, 4 pages 4.6

The King

Everyone is influenced by a public figure one way or the other, being famous or infamous, directly or indirectly. Justin Timberlake stated "A lot of people have MJ (Michael Jackson) inspired dance moves, Britney and Cisco, and MJ was influenced by James Brown, so everyone is influenced by someone(1). Take me for instance; The King (Elvis Presley) has influenced my musical life style. I didn't realize it at first, since nobody really ever sits down and thinks about who influenced their life. I realized it when my English teacher assigned this assignment.

Elvis Aaron Presley was born on January 8, 1935 Tupelo, Ms. He was born with a twin brother, Jessie Garon but he was stillborn so he didn't grow up with Elvis. In 1954 he started his singing career with Sun Records label in Memphis. His recording contract was later sold to RCA Victor and by 1956, he was a sensation, even internationally.

"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." (Mundy 22). He not only was a great singer but he always starred in 33 films and made history when he appeared in television and specials. Elvis had over 1 billion record sales globally. He is a public figure since with "His talent, sensuality, charisma, and good humor endeared him to millions." (White 51). Elvis sadly past away on August 16, 1977 Memphis, Tennessee. His life spanned from 1935 to 1977, dieing at age 42.

Shortly after midnight Elvis returns to Graceland from a late-night visit to the dentist. Through the early morning of the 16th he takes care of last minute tour details and relaxes with...