Changes

Presley died on August 16, 1977, of complications due to prescription drug abuse and poor eating and health habits; he died in his home, [[Graceland]], from cardiac arrest, a day before he was scheduled to go back on tour.  By then Elvis had starred in many movies, with his finest between 1956 and 1972.<ref>https://variety.com/lists/elvis-presley-best-films-ranked/</ref>  Movies about Elvis continued to be popular through 2022, 45 years after he died, although '''''most of these biopics are [[liberal]] revisionism that mislead their audiences by concealing that Elvis was [[conservative]]'''''.<ref>See, e.g., [[Elvis (film)]].</ref>

Presley died on August 16, 1977, of complications due to prescription drug abuse and poor eating and health habits; he died in his home, [[Graceland]], from cardiac arrest, a day before he was scheduled to go back on tour.  By then Elvis had starred in many movies, with his finest between 1956 and 1972.<ref>https://variety.com/lists/elvis-presley-best-films-ranked/</ref>  Movies about Elvis continued to be popular through 2022, 45 years after he died, although '''''most of these biopics are [[liberal]] revisionism that mislead their audiences by concealing that Elvis was [[conservative]]'''''.<ref>See, e.g., [[Elvis (film)]].</ref>

Presley has been inducted into four music halls of fame, received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1971, and was nominated for fourteen [[Grammy Award]]s, winning three, all for gospel songs (ironically, though considered "The King of Rock and Roll", he never won a Grammy Award in a competitive rock category). He has also earned more than thirty number-one hits, including the posthumous remix of "A Little Less Conversation". He also had ten #1 albums, tying him with [[Bruce Springsteen]] for number of #1 albums; only [[the Beatles]] (19) and [[Jay-Z]] (12) have more.

Presley has been inducted into four music halls of fame, received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1971, and was nominated for fourteen [[Grammy Award]]s, winning three, all for gospel songs (ironically, though considered "The King of Rock and Roll", he never won a Grammy Award in a competitive rock category). He has also earned more than thirty number-one hits, including the posthumous remix of "A Little Less Conversation". Elvis also had 10 #1 albums; [[the Beatles]] (19), [[Taylor Swift]] (14), [[Jay-Z]] (14), [[Bruce Springsteen]] (11), and a few others have 10 or more.<ref>https://www.businessinsider.com/who-has-most-number-1-albums-billboard-chart-2024-1#eminem-10-1</ref>

Presley is one of the most important popular culture icons of the twentieth century, and the best-selling solo artist in the history of popular music. He was one of the originators of rockabilly, an uptempo fusion of country music and [[rhythm and blues]].<ref>http://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc19754/m1/</ref>

Presley is one of the most important popular culture icons of the twentieth century, and the best-selling solo artist in the history of popular music. He was one of the originators of rockabilly, an uptempo fusion of country music and [[rhythm and blues]].<ref>http://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc19754/m1/</ref>

==Early life==

==Early life==

Vernon Elvis Presley (April 10, 1916- June 26, 1979) was the father of Elvis Presley. He was born in Fulton, Mississippi. He was born to Jesse D. McClowell Presley and Minnie Mae Hood. He married Gladys Presley (born Gladys Love Smith; April 25, 1912- August 14, 1958) on June 17, 1933 in Verona, Mississippi. Presley was born in a two-room house without running water or electricity in East Tupelo, [[Mississippi]] to Gladys Love and Vernon Presley. Presley's identical twin brother, Jesse Garon Presley, was stillborn 35 minutes before him. Presley's mother Gladys almost died from the birth and both were taken to the hospital. The Presley family lived in near-poverty during the early years of Presley's life. They were on [[welfare]] and got help from their neighbors. Vernon supported the family by working different odd jobs. Despite living in poverty, Presley benefited from a closely knit family. On May 25, 1938 Vernon was sentenced for three years in the Mississippi State Penitentiary for check [[forgery]]. During the brief time Vernon spent in prison, Gladys and Presley had to temporarily live with Gladys' in-laws next door. Vernon was released on February 6, 1939 on account of good behavior.

Vernon Elvis Presley (April 10, 1916- June 26, 1979) was the father of Elvis Presley. He was born in Fulton, Mississippi. He was born to Jesse D. McClowell Presley and Minnie Mae Hood. He married Gladys Presley (born Gladys Love Smith; April 25, 1912- August 14, 1958) on June 17, 1933 in Verona, Mississippi. Presley was born in a two-room house without running water or electricity in East Tupelo, [[Mississippi]] to Gladys Love and Vernon Presley. Presley's identical twin brother, Jesse Garon Presley, was stillborn 35 minutes before him. Presley's mother Gladys almost died from the birth and both were taken to the hospital. The Presley family lived in near poverty during the early years of Presley's life. They were on [[welfare]] and got help from their neighbors. Vernon supported the family by working different odd jobs. Despite living in poverty, Presley benefited from a closely-knit family. On May 25, 1938, Vernon was sentenced to three years in the Mississippi State Penitentiary for check [[forgery]]. During the brief time Vernon spent in prison, Gladys and Presley had to temporarily live with Gladys' in-laws next door. Vernon was released on February 6, 1939, on account of good behavior.

Presley received a [[guitar]] for his eleventh birthday. The store owner said he wanted a [[rifle]]. Some other variants of the story claim he wanted a bicycle, though accounts from those who knew Presley during his earlier life say that what he wanted was most likely the rifle. However, Gladys did not want her son to have one and he eventually settled on the guitar. He would often sing in school for his classes, and they were pleased with him.<ref name="official bio">[http://www.elvis.com/about-the-king/biography_.aspx Elvis biography]</ref><ref>[http://www.elvispresleymusic.com.au/elvis_presley_1935_1953.html Biography of Presley's Early Life]</ref>  

Presley received a [[guitar]] for his eleventh birthday. The store owner said he wanted a [[rifle]]. Some other variants of the story claim he wanted a bicycle, though accounts from those who knew Presley during his earlier life say that what he wanted was most likely the rifle. However, Gladys did not want her son to have one and he eventually settled on the guitar. He would often sing in school for his classes, and they were pleased with him.<ref name="official bio">[http://www.elvis.com/about-the-king/biography_.aspx Elvis biography]</ref><ref>[http://www.elvispresleymusic.com.au/elvis_presley_1935_1953.html Biography of Presley's Early Life]</ref>  

==Career==

==Career==

Presley's professional career carried him from his first single in 1954 to his death in 1977, spanning twenty-three years. He influenced the musical world immensely during this time creating basically what modern pop music is today. He also delved into acting during his career though his records and concerts were the most influential most prominent and longest part of his career. From a poor boy in a small town to international icon to one of the most legendary and influential persons to ever live, Presley had a huge impact in the relatively short career he had breaking barriers in music and culture from youth rebellion to becoming one of the standards in Las Vegas and beyond. Many people have heard more than one song by Presley, and he remains one of the most admired and celebrated musicians of all time with '''''numerous''''' prominent musicians citing him as an influence.

Presley's professional career carried him from his first single in 1954 to his death in 1977, spanning twenty-three years. He influenced the musical world immensely during this time creating basically what modern pop music is today. He also delved into acting during his career though his records and concerts were the most influential most prominent and longest part of his career. From a poor boy in a small town to the international icon to one of the most legendary and influential persons to ever live, Presley had a huge impact in the relatively short career he had breaking barriers in music and culture from youth rebellion to becoming one of the standards in Las Vegas and beyond. Many people have heard more than one song by Presley, and he remains one of the most admired and celebrated musicians of all time with '''''numerous''''' prominent musicians citing him as an influence.

===Early career===

===Early career===

After graduating from high school,  Presley paid to record two songs meant to be a birthday gift to his mother. The songs “My Happiness” and “That’s When Your Heartaches Begin” would be his first steps toward becoming what many say was the greatest entertainer of the century and “the King of Rock n’ Roll.”

After graduating from high school,  Presley paid to record two songs meant to be a birthday gift to his mother. The songs “My Happiness” and “That’s When Your Heartaches Begin” would be his first steps toward becoming what many say was the greatest entertainer of the century and “the King of Rock n’ Roll.”

In 1954 Sun Records released “That’s All Right,” a 45 rpm record with the B-side “Blue Moon of Kentucky.” Within a few days it was a hit when Memphis radio station WHBQ began programming the record and Presley began a regular touring schedule outside of the Memphis area. His second single, “Good Rockin' Tonight,” with “I Don't Care if the Sun Don't Shine” was released in September, 1954 and a month later Elvis Presley made his first appearance on the “[[Louisiana]] Hayride”, a country music radio show, in Shreveport to the delight of a large audience. He was signed to a one-year contract with the Hayride for a weekly performance.

In 1954 Sun Records released “That’s All Right,” a 45 rpm record with the B-side “Blue Moon of Kentucky.” Within a few days it was a hit when Memphis radio station WHBQ began programming the record and Presley began a regular touring schedule outside of the Memphis area. His second single, “Good Rockin' Tonight,” with “I Don't Care if the Sun Don't Shine” was released in September 1954 and a month later Elvis Presley made his first appearance on the “[[Louisiana]] Hayride”, a country music radio show, in Shreveport to the delight of a large audience. He was signed to a one-year contract with the Hayride for a weekly performance.

Elvis Presley moved from Sun Records to RCA by suggestion of his manager Colonel Tom Parker, who officially became Presley's manager after his contract with former manager Bob Neal expired on March 26, 1956. RCA paid $35,000 to Sun and $5,000 to Presley, a sum unheard of at that time. A few months later in 1956 his first single on the RCA label “Heartbreak Hotel,” topped the charts at #1.

Elvis Presley moved from Sun Records to RCA at the suggestion of his manager Colonel Tom Parker, who officially became Presley's manager after his contract with former manager Bob Neal expired on March 26, 1956. RCA paid $35,000 to Sun and $5,000 to Presley, a sum unheard of at that time. A few months later in 1956 his first single on the RCA label “Heartbreak Hotel,” topped the charts at #1.

Elvis Presley had a physical style in his concerts that was considered by many to be suggestive and scandalous.  He gyrated his body with the music, in a way that would be considered tame by contemporary standards, but was unheard-of at the time.  He was sometimes given the name "Elvis the Pelvis" for this, and was sometimes shown in television concerts only from the waist up.

Elvis Presley had a physical style in his concerts that was considered by many to be suggestive and scandalous.  He gyrated his body with the music, in a way that would be considered tame by contemporary standards, but was considered by some to be nearly scandalous at the time.  He was sometimes given the name "Elvis the Pelvis" for this and was sometimes shown in television concerts only from the waist up.

====Ed Sullivan Shows====

====Ed Sullivan Shows====

Presley first appeared on ''The Ed Sullivan Show'' on September 9, 1956, despite Sullivan personally vowing he would never have Presley on the show. Sullivan entered Presley after rival Steve Allen received a jump in ratings due to Presley's appearance on his show. His second appearance on the Sullivan show was on October 28, 1956. That appearance included Elvis performed "Don't Be Cruel", and "Love Me Tender", as well as a four-minute version of "Hound Dog". As Sullivan stood behind Presley during the show, addressing the audience, Presley began shaking his legs, eliciting an uproar from the audience. As Sullivan stood his head, Presley became motionless. After Presley was leaving the stage, Sullivan said "I can’t figure this darn thing out. You know. He just does this [Sullivan shakes his legs] and everybody yells."  The third and final show was on January 6, 1957. This show sparked controversy, as Presley was shot only from the waist up. It was seen as censoring his hip gyrations. Presley responded by wiggling his finger and causing an uproar in the audience.

Presley first appeared on ''The Ed Sullivan Show'' on September 9, 1956, despite Sullivan personally vowing he would never have Presley on the show. Sullivan entered Presley after rival Steve Allen received a jump in ratings due to Presley's appearance on his show. His second appearance on the [[Ed Sullivan Show]] was on October 28, 1956. That appearance included Elvis performing "Don't Be Cruel", and "Love Me Tender", as well as a four-minute version of "Hound Dog". As Sullivan stood behind Presley during the show, addressing the audience, Presley began shaking his legs, eliciting an uproar from the audience. As Sullivan stood his head, Presley became motionless. After Presley was leaving the stage, Sullivan said "I can’t figure this darn thing out. You know. He just does this [Sullivan shakes his legs] and everybody yells."  The third and final show was on January 6, 1957. This show sparked controversy, as Presley was shot only from the waist up. It was seen as censoring his hip gyrations. Presley responded by wiggling his finger and causing an uproar in the audience.

===Music===

===Music===

===Films===

===Films===

*See also: filmography at the end of the article, separate articles on films

*See also: filmography at the end of the article, separate articles on films

Presley starred in thirty-three enormously profitable films,<ref>[http://www.ultimatemovierankings.com/elvis-presley-movies]</ref> most of which were lighthearted comedic musicals. His first film, ''Love Me Tender'', a western, was released in 1957, in which Presley plays Clint Reno, the youngest of the four Reno brothers. He takes care of the house while his older brothers go to fight for the Confederates in the [[American Civil War]].<ref>[http://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/title/82021/Love-Me-Tender/full-synopsis.html]</ref> His film ''Loving You'' was released soon after.  In the movie, Presley plays Deke Rivers, a delivery man. The film originally had three working titles; ''Lonesome Cowboy'', ''Something for the Girls'', and ''Running Wild'', but it was titled ''Loving You'' to match the title song.<ref>[https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0050659/plotsummary]</ref>

<br>Presley starred in thirty-three enormously profitable films,<ref>[http://www.ultimatemovierankings.com/elvis-presley-movies]</ref> most of which were lighthearted comedic musicals. His first film, ''Love Me Tender'', a western, was released in 1957, in which Presley plays Clint Reno, the youngest of the four Reno brothers. He takes care of the house while his older brothers go to fight for the Confederates in the [[American Civil War]].<ref>[http://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/title/82021/Love-Me-Tender/full-synopsis.html]</ref> His film ''Loving You'' was released soon after.  In the movie, Presley plays Deke Rivers, a delivery man. The film originally had three working titles; ''Lonesome Cowboy'', ''Something for the Girls'', and ''Running Wild'', but it was titled ''Loving You'' to match the title song.<ref>[https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0050659/plotsummary]</ref>

He then starred in ''Jailhouse Rock'', playing an anti-hero character. ''Jailhouse Rock'' was Elvis Presley's third movie and arguably his most controversial. In this film, Presley played a convict named Vince Everett.<ref>[http://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/title/238/Jailhouse-Rock/full-synopsis.html]</ref> It peaked at number 3 on Variety box office chart. The film was number 14 in the Box Office charts for that year, grossing over $4 million. ($36.3 million adjusted for inflation)  For a while, Presley was one of Hollywood's highest-paid actors. He starred in ''King Creole'', for which he deferred his Army service to star in. After his service, he starred in ''G.I. Blues'' He was cast in light, clean-cut roles during the 1960s, and Presley was not happy about it, since he aspired to be a serious actor.<ref>[http://www.sheilaomalley.com/?p=52842]</ref> These feature films were generally poorly received by critics, often for "them all being the same", but still sold extremely well, and were popular with fans. ''Charro!'' was an exception, as it did not feature music other than a title song.<ref>[https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0064155/plotsummary]</ref> After his final feature film in 1969, the only Presley films released were concert documentaries, such as ''Elvis:That's the Way it Is''.

He then starred in ''Jailhouse Rock'', playing an anti-hero character. ''Jailhouse Rock'' was Elvis Presley's third movie and arguably his most controversial. In this film, Presley played a convict named Vince Everett.<ref>[http://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/title/238/Jailhouse-Rock/full-synopsis.html]</ref> It peaked at number 3 on Variety box office chart. The film was number 14 in the Box Office charts for that year, grossing over $4 million. ($36.3 million adjusted for inflation)  For a while, Presley was one of Hollywood's highest-paid actors. He starred in ''King Creole'', for which he deferred his Army service to star in. After his service, he starred in ''G.I. Blues'' He was cast in light, clean-cut roles during the 1960s, and Presley was not happy about it, since he aspired to be a serious actor.<ref>[http://www.sheilaomalley.com/?p=52842]</ref> These feature films were generally poorly received by critics, often for "them all being the same", but still sold extremely well, and were popular with fans. ''Charro!'' was an exception, as it did not feature music other than a title song.<ref>[https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0064155/plotsummary]</ref> After his final feature film in 1969, the only Presley films released were concert documentaries, such as ''Elvis:That's the Way it Is''.

While Presley's films were poorly received by critics at the time the movies were released, they are generally positively received with modern critics.

While Presley's films were poorly received by critics at the time the movies were released, they are generally positively received by modern critics.

Presley started work on two karate films, ''The New Gladiator'' (1974) and ''Billy Easter'' (1977). The former starred Presley and other fighters training and then competing in tournaments around the world. The latter involves an ex-CIA agent who then owns a karate school getting revenge on drug dealers for the murder of his best friend. Neither of these karate films were finished in their entirety or released.<ref>[http://fightland.vice.com/blog/the-karate-master-a-beginners-guide-to-elvis-presleys-martial-arts-obsession]</ref>

Presley started work on two karate films, ''The New Gladiator'' (1974) and ''Billy Easter'' (1977). The former starred Presley and other fighters training and then competing in tournaments around the world. The latter involves an ex-CIA agent who then owns a karate school getting revenge on drug dealers for the murder of his best friend. Neither of these karate films was finished in their entirety or released.<ref>[http://fightland.vice.com/blog/the-karate-master-a-beginners-guide-to-elvis-presleys-martial-arts-obsession]</ref>

===Concert Performances===

===Concert Performances===

[[File:Elvis Presley 1970.jpg|thumb|right|125px|Presley in 1970]]

[[File:Elvis Presley 1970.jpg|thumb|right|125px|Presley in 1970]]

During his career, Presley performed many concerts. Many of these concerts were sold out and fans waited for days in line just to buy tickets. His first concerts were performed in the late 1950s, and these were the most provocative of Presley's concerts. His other major concert era came after his career in film which was from the late 1960s to Presley's death in 1977. He performed in [[Las Vegas]] and did a road tour for those who could not make it out to Vegas unlike many performers at the time who would have been content in their shows and dressing room in Las Vegas.

During his career, Presley performed many concerts. Many of these concerts were sold out and fans waited for days in line just to buy tickets. His first concerts were performed in the late 1950s, and these were the most provocative of Presley's concerts. His other major concert era came after his career in film which was from the late 1960s to Presley's death in 1977. He performed in [[Las Vegas]] and did a road tour for those who could not make it out to Vegas unlike many performers at the time who would have been content in their shows and dressing room in Las Vegas.

====Early Concerts====

====Early Concerts====

Presley started touring in the 1950s and he caused controversy over his hip gyrations and music. The older generation thought his style was vulgar. As a result, Presley's performances on television were often shot from the waist up so it would not offend anyone. Many of Presley's fans were young women, and they would often scream incessantly at his concerts, a practice which has since become commonplace during concerts of male heartthrobs. His style of dancing came from nervousness of dancing in front of women.<ref>[http://www.moviesmusicgamesandmore.com/elvis-presley-biography.html The Life of Elvis Presley]</ref> Presley was panned by critics at his first performance in Las Vegas in the 1950s for his "vulgar" performance, but was well received later on and is now culturally associated with Las Vegas.

Presley started touring in the 1950s and he caused controversy over his hip gyrations and music. The older generation thought his style was vulgar. As a result, Presley's performances on television were often shot from the waist up so it would not offend anyone. Many of Presley's fans were young women, and they would often scream incessantly at his concerts, a practice that has since become commonplace during concerts of male heartthrobs. His style of dancing came from the nervousness of dancing in front of women.<ref>[http://www.moviesmusicgamesandmore.com/elvis-presley-biography.html The Life of Elvis Presley]</ref> Presley was panned by critics at his first performance in Las Vegas in the 1950s for his "vulgar" performance, but was well received later on and is now culturally associated with Las Vegas.

In 1956, Presley made his network television debut with the first of his six appearances on ''Stage Show'', a weekly variety program hosted by Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey. On ''The Milton Berle Show'', he performed "Hound Dog" and the performance was considered very provocative for the time.

In 1956, Presley made his network television debut with the first of his six appearances on ''Stage Show'', a weekly variety program hosted by Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey. On ''The Milton Berle Show'', he performed "Hound Dog" and the performance was considered very provocative for the time.

====1968 Comeback Special====

====1968 Comeback Special====

Presley stopped touring while he was in Hollywood until 1968, when his special ''Elvis'' or also called the '''68 Comeback'' on NBC. The network originally wanted it to be a soft Christmas special with Presley in a tuxedo, but Presley did a rock performance in leather. He saw this as his comeback from his films to live performing. He performed many of his previous hits, and had a gospel section of the performance which included the famous song "If I Can Dream". The concert was later sold on VHS and DVD by Elvis Presley Enterprises.

Presley stopped touring while he was in Hollywood until 1968 when his special ''Elvis'' or also called the '''68 Comeback'' on NBC. The network originally wanted it to be a soft Christmas special with Presley in a tuxedo, but Presley did a rock performance in leather. He saw this as his comeback from his films to live performing. He performed many of his previous hits, and had a gospel section of the performance which included the famous song "If I Can Dream". The concert was later sold on VHS and DVD by Elvis Presley Enterprises.

Colonel Parker originally wanted the show to be a Christmas performance with little more than Presley performing Christmas carols. He believed that this could be a television version of the Christmas show Presley performed the year before. However, producer Steve Binder felt that this would not be best for the singer since they wanted to reestablish his reputation with this concert after he made many films and recordings of varying quality.  

Colonel Parker originally wanted the show to be a Christmas performance with little more than Presley performing Christmas carols. He believed that this could be a television version of the Christmas show Presley performed the year before. However, producer Steve Binder felt that this would not be best for the singer since they wanted to reestablish his reputation with this concert after he made many films and recordings of varying quality.  

====Aloha from Hawaii====

====Aloha from Hawaii====

[[File:ElvisPresleyAlohafromHawaii.jpg|thumb|right|150px|Presley at the Aloha from Hawaii concert]]

[[File:ElvisPresleyAlohafromHawaii.jpg|thumb|right|150px|Presley at the Aloha from Hawaii concert]]

''Aloha from Hawaii'' was a concert performed by Presley that was originally broadcasted live via satellite on January 14, 1973. The amount of people who viewed the concert is debatable. Several sources, including [[Elvis Presley Enterprises]], say that over a billion people watched the concert worldwide, and it is the most watched broadcast starring an individual entertainer. Some other sources claim that this figure was created by [[Colonel Tom Parker]], and that only several hundred million viewed the concert. The concert was shot at the Honolulu International Center (HIC) in Honolulu, Hawaii. The concert did not air in the United States until April 4, 1973 (the same day as the Super Bowl). This was the most expensive entertainment show at that time, costing over $2.5 million.

''Aloha from Hawaii'' was a concert performed by Presley that was originally broadcast live via satellite on January 14, 1973. The amount of people who viewed the concert is debatable. Several sources, including [[Elvis Presley Enterprises]], say that over a billion people watched the concert worldwide, and it is the most watched broadcast starring an individual entertainer. Some other sources claim that this figure was created by [[Colonel Tom Parker]], and that only several hundred million viewed the concert. The concert was shot at the Honolulu International Center (HIC) in Honolulu, Hawaii. The concert did not air in the United States until April 4, 1973 (the same day as the Super Bowl). This was the most expensive entertainment show at that time, costing over $2.5 million.

The concert featured an array of Presley's early and recent hits, including "Hound Dog", "Steamroller Blues", "See See Rider", "Early Morning Rain", "Burning Love", "Blue Suede Shoes", "A Big Hunk o' Love", "Can't Help Falling in Love", "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry", "It's Over", "Welcome to my World", "I'll Remember You" and "What Now My Love", and "Suspicious Minds", as well as covers of songs including [[Chuck Berry]]'s "Johnny B. Goode" and [[The Beatles]]' "Something".

The concert featured an array of Presley's early and recent hits, including "Hound Dog", "Steamroller Blues", "See See Rider", "Early Morning Rain", "Burning Love", "Blue Suede Shoes", "A Big Hunk o' Love", "Can't Help Falling in Love", "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry", "It's Over", "Welcome to my World", "I'll Remember You" and "What Now My Love", and "Suspicious Minds", as well as covers of songs including [[Chuck Berry]]'s "Johnny B. Goode" and [[The Beatles]]' "Something".

After Presley's death, concerts were put together using past live performances of Presley's, and his original band played live on stage with Presley's concert footage on a large screen via computer technology. Everything from the performances but Presley's voice is edited out, and gives the simulation of a real concert. Many sold-out concerts were performed across the world. Presley could not perform in many different countries due to his manager, Colonel Tom Parker's immigration status.

After Presley's death, concerts were put together using past live performances of Presley's, and his original band played live on stage with Presley's concert footage on a large screen via computer technology. Everything from the performances but Presley's voice is edited out, and gives the simulation of a real concert. Many sold-out concerts were performed across the world. Presley could not perform in many different countries due to his manager, Colonel Tom Parker's immigration status.

The tours started in 1997, and has been extremely popular throughout the world. A concert was conceived on August 16, 1997 (twenty years after Presley's death) after EPE was experimenting with Presley recordings and discovered through multitracking how to remove virtually all background music except Presley's voice, and it featured Presley's original 1970s back-up band (TCB Band), his back-up singers (The Stamps Quartet, The Imperials, The Sweet Inspirations and Millie Kirkham) and was performed at the Mid-South Coliseum in Memphis.  

The tours started in 1997, and have been extremely popular throughout the world. A concert was conceived on August 16, 1997 (twenty years after Presley's death) after EPE was experimenting with Presley recordings and discovered through multitracking how to remove virtually all background music except Presley's voice, and it featured Presley's original 1970s back-up band (TCB Band), his back-up singers (The Stamps Quartet, The Imperials, The Sweet Inspirations and Millie Kirkham) and was performed at the Mid-South Coliseum in Memphis.  

In 2007, a DVD of the twenty-fifth anniversary concert was sold.

In 2007, a DVD of the twenty-fifth-anniversary concert was sold.

==Personal life==

==Personal life==

At the age of eighteen, like all young American men, on January 19, 1953, Presley registered for the Selective Service system. At the time, there was a draft and all young men in good health were to be able to serve two years in the military, and then spend four years in the reserves. Presley, after signing up, became the sensation he was. Then Presley received a draft notice, No. 40-86-35-16 on December 20, 1957, but sought deferment to finish his film ''King Creole''.<ref>[https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/elvis-presley-is-drafted]</ref> Presley went to the Memphis Draft Board on March 24, 1958 to be processed into the Army.<ref>[https://blog.newspapers.com/elvis-joins-the-army-march-24-1958/]</ref> Presley was offered a chance to be in the Special Services of the Army where he would entertain the troops, but Presley decided to be drafted as a regular soldier to have a more positive rapport with his fellow troops.<ref>[http://time.com/3746935/elvis-drafted-hair/]</ref> He then spent 10 weeks in advanced tank training in Fort Hood, Texas. Presley returned soon after to see his mother, Gladys, who was gravely ill. She died on August 14, 1958.<ref>[http://bestclassicbands.com/gladys-presley-death-8-14-15/]</ref> Presley served for two years and was assigned as an M48 Patton tank crewman to Company A, 1st Medium Tank Battalion, 32nd Armor Regiment of the 3rd Armored Division. He was stationed at Ray Barracks in Friedberg, Germany. Presley was promoted to the rank of [[Sergeant]].<ref>[https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/wp/2018/03/22/sixty-years-ago-elvis-presley-was-drafted-into-the-army-he-was-never-the-same/?utm_term=.f4f50725cc96]</ref>

At the age of eighteen, like all young American men, on January 19, 1953, Presley registered for the Selective Service system. At the time, there was a draft and all young men in good health were to be able to serve two years in the military, and then spend four years in the reserves. Presley, after signing up, became the sensation he was. Then Presley received a draft notice, No. 40-86-35-16 on December 20, 1957, but sought deferment to finish his film ''King Creole''.<ref>[https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/elvis-presley-is-drafted]</ref> Presley went to the Memphis Draft Board on March 24, 1958 to be processed into the Army.<ref>[https://blog.newspapers.com/elvis-joins-the-army-march-24-1958/]</ref> Presley was offered a chance to be in the Special Services of the Army where he would entertain the troops, but Presley decided to be drafted as a regular soldier to have a more positive rapport with his fellow troops.<ref>[http://time.com/3746935/elvis-drafted-hair/]</ref> He then spent 10 weeks in advanced tank training in Fort Hood, Texas. Presley returned soon after to see his mother, Gladys, who was gravely ill. She died on August 14, 1958.<ref>[http://bestclassicbands.com/gladys-presley-death-8-14-15/]</ref> Presley served for two years and was assigned as an M48 Patton tank crewman to Company A, 1st Medium Tank Battalion, 32nd Armor Regiment of the 3rd Armored Division. He was stationed at Ray Barracks in Friedberg, Germany. Presley was promoted to the rank of [[Sergeant]].<ref>[https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/wp/2018/03/22/sixty-years-ago-elvis-presley-was-drafted-into-the-army-he-was-never-the-same/?utm_term=.f4f50725cc96]</ref>

While Presley was processed at Fort Chaffee near [[Fort Smith, Arkansas|Fort Smith]], [[Arkansas]], [[John Mawn]], the public information officer, was assigned to reply to the media when Presley's draft notice became public. Presley received his "G.I. haircut" at Fort Chaffee on March 25, 1958, a day after his induction by the draft board in Memphis, Tennessee. Earlier, Mawn told an [[Associated Press]] reporter that the already legendary entertainer would look like a "peeled onion", a retort which garnered national headlines. Presley himself said simply, "Hair today, gone tomorrow." Mawn went on to be technical adviser for Presley's 1960 film, ''G.I. Blues''.

While Presley was processed at Fort Chaffee near [[Fort Smith, Arkansas|Fort Smith]], [[Arkansas]], [[John Mawn]], the public information officer, was assigned to reply to the media when Presley's draft notice became public. Presley received his "G.I. haircut" at Fort Chaffee on March 25, 1958, a day after his induction by the draft board in Memphis, Tennessee. Earlier, Mawn told an [[Associated Press]] reporter that the already legendary entertainer would look like a "peeled onion", a retort which garnered national headlines. Presley himself said simply, "Hair today, gone tomorrow." Mawn went on to be a technical adviser for Presley's 1960 film, ''G.I. Blues''.

Presley's conscription inspired the musical [[Bye Bye Birdie]].<ref>http://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc19756/m1/</ref>

Presley's conscription inspired the musical [[Bye Bye Birdie]].<ref>http://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc19756/m1/</ref>

It was while stationed in Germany that Presley first developed his lifelong interest in martial arts. He was a student of Hank Slemansky, a German Chito Ryu master, and became a black belt upon returning to the United States in 1960. His [[gospel music|gospel]] album "His Hand in Mine," released in 1961, features Presley on the cover, sitting at the piano wearing a black belt pin. He earned black belts from several famous instructors.<ref>http://www.tracyskarate.com/Stories/was_elvis_really_a_black_belt.htm</ref>

It was while stationed in Germany that Presley first developed his lifelong interest in martial arts. He was a student of Hank Slemansky, a German Chito Ryu master, and became a black belt upon returning to the United States in 1960. His [[gospel music|gospel]] album "His Hand in Mine," released in 1961, features Presley on the cover, sitting at the piano wearing a black belt pin. He earned black belts from several famous instructors.<ref>http://www.tracyskarate.com/Stories/was_elvis_really_a_black_belt.htm</ref>

He later came under the tutelage of Kendo master Ed Parker, who said that Presley was an excellent martial artist and actually knew the contents of the IKKA manual for Kendo better than he did. Presley was able to achieve a 6th degree black belt in Kendo by 1973.

He later came under the tutelage of Kendo master Ed Parker, who said that Presley was an excellent martial artist and actually knew the contents of the IKKA manual for Kendo better than he did. Presley was able to achieve a 6th-degree black belt in Kendo by 1973.

Elvis Presley is credited with popularizing martial arts in the United States through the use of exciting fight sequences in his movies, for which he did not use a stuntman. In 1960, while filming the film ''G.I. Blues'', he accidentally injured his hand with enough force to cause it to swell up noticeably. He finished the filming regardless, and was known among other martial artists for his high tolerance for physical punishment.<ref>http://members.tripod.com/beyondthereef__1/tigerman.html</ref>

Elvis Presley is credited with popularizing martial arts in the United States through the use of exciting fight sequences in his movies, for which he did not use a stuntman. In 1960, while filming the film ''G.I. Blues'', he accidentally injured his hand with enough force to cause it to swell up noticeably. He finished the filming regardless, and was known among other martial artists for his high tolerance for physical punishment.<ref>http://members.tripod.com/beyondthereef__1/tigerman.html</ref>

*''See also: [[Elvis Presley phenomenon]]''

*''See also: [[Elvis Presley phenomenon]]''

[[File:YoungElvisPresley.jpg|thumb|right|110px|A young Presley]]

[[File:YoungElvisPresley.jpg|thumb|right|110px|A young Presley]]

Presley has had a great effect on music; this includes a satellite radio station dedicated to playing his songs, his home is a historic landmark which attracts many visitors from across the world, and many entertainers make a living impersonating him. Presley also makes the most money of any deceased performer aside from Michael Jackson. The Ronnie McDowell song "The King is Gone" released after Presley's death showcased McDowell's great ability as an Elvis impersonator while recollecting his childhood memories of listening to Presley's songs as a kid and mourning over Presley's death.

Presley has had a great effect on music; this includes a satellite radio station dedicated to playing his songs, his home is a historic landmark that attracts many visitors from across the world, and many entertainers make a living impersonating him. Presley also makes the most money of any deceased performer aside from Michael Jackson. The Ronnie McDowell song "The King is Gone" released after Presley's death showcased McDowell's great ability as an Elvis impersonator while recollecting his childhood memories of listening to Presley's songs as a kid and mourning over Presley's death.

Presley brought the soul music of African Americans performing on the streets of Memphis to a new, much larger audience through his early recordings, such as his cover of Arthur Crudup's "That's All Right."

Presley brought the soul music of African Americans performing on the streets of Memphis to a new, much larger audience through his early recordings, such as his cover of Arthur Crudup's "That's All Right."

Presley's legacy is such that many entertainers have made careers emulating him in voice, looks, or both. They are called Elvis Tribute Artists, or informally as Elvis impersonators. Professional Elvis impersonators highlight in Las Vegas and other areas across the United States and around the world.

Presley's legacy is such that many entertainers have made careers emulating him in voice, looks, or both. They are called Elvis Tribute Artists, or informally as Elvis impersonators. Professional Elvis impersonators highlight in Las Vegas and other areas across the United States and around the world.

Elvis impersonators are in great demand due to the iconic status of Presley, and many of these tribute acts exist. The first recorded Elvis impersonator was Jim Smith in 1956, shortly after Presley began to rise in popularity. Smith looked like and imitated Presley, but was just pretending since he could neither sing nor play the guitar. The first influential Elvis impersonator was Phil Ochs in 1970. Andy Kaufman was a significant Elvis impersonator in the mid 1970s and Presley himself said Kaufman was his favorite. While Presley was alive, impersonators largely competed in talent shows. It was after Presley's death the art grew into the industry it is today. Elvis impersonators range from professional performers to people who do it as a hobby to people who do it as part of a comedy act. There is also an Elvis Tribute Artist contest sponsored by Elvis Presley Enterprises.

Elvis impersonators are in great demand due to the iconic status of Presley, and many of these tribute acts exist. The first recorded Elvis impersonator was Jim Smith in 1956, shortly after Presley began to rise in popularity. Smith looked like and imitated Presley, but was just pretending since he could neither sing nor play the guitar. The first influential Elvis impersonator was Phil Ochs in 1970. Andy Kaufman was a significant Elvis impersonator in the mid-1970s and Presley himself said Kaufman was his favorite. While Presley was alive, impersonators largely competed in talent shows. It was after Presley's death the art grew into the industry it is today. Elvis impersonators range from professional performers to people who do it as a hobby to people who do it as part of a comedy act. There is also an Elvis Tribute Artist contest sponsored by Elvis Presley Enterprises.

In addition to Las Vegas, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee is a popular spot for Elvis impersonators.

In addition to Las Vegas, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee is a popular spot for Elvis impersonators.

===Sirius-XM Elvis Radio===

===Sirius-XM Elvis Radio===

With the launch of satellite radio, a channel dedicated entirely to the works of Elvis Presley was created. The 24 hour station plays his studio recordings, live performances (nights are often dedicated to playing a Presley concert in its entirety), lost and rare studio sessions and interviews with many of Presley's former friends, acquaintances and bandmates. The station is located in Memphis across the Graceland estate. The Elvis Quiz Show is periodically hosted on the network, where fans can answer questions about Presley and his work to earn prizes. The station dedicates Sunday mornings to Presley's gospel recordings.

With the launch of satellite radio, a channel dedicated entirely to the works of Elvis Presley was created. The 24-hour station plays his studio recordings, live performances (nights are often dedicated to playing a Presley concert in its entirety), lost and rare studio sessions and interviews with many of Presley's former friends, acquaintances and bandmates. The station is located in Memphis across the Graceland estate. The Elvis Quiz Show is periodically hosted on the network, where fans can answer questions about Presley and his work to earn prizes. The station dedicates Sunday mornings to Presley's gospel recordings.

===Conspiracies about Presley faking his death===

===Conspiracies about Presley faking his death===

==Factoids==

==Factoids==

*Presley's favorite sandwich was peanut butter and banana. He often deep fried the sandwiches and sometimes added bacon to them. He also enjoyed hamburgers and jelly donuts.

*Presley's favorite sandwich was peanut butter and banana. He often deep-fried the sandwiches and sometimes added bacon to them. He also enjoyed hamburgers and jelly donuts.

*He would buy cars for family, friends, and even complete strangers.

*He would buy cars for family, friends, and even complete strangers.

*He would rent out amusement parks and other establishments, or at least go after hours, because he did not want to run into a huge swarm of fans.

*He would rent out amusement parks and other establishments, or at least go after hours, because he did not want to run into a huge swarm of fans.

*Presley recorded a song called "Miracle of the [[Rosary]], despite having no known [[Roman Catholic]] background; the song thanks God for the Rosary and then proceeds into a [[Hail Mary]]. (Ave Maria)

*Presley recorded a song called "Miracle of the [[Rosary]], despite having no known [[Roman Catholic]] background; the song thanks God for the Rosary and then proceeds into a [[Hail Mary]]. (Ave Maria)

*Presley has sold over a billion records globally.

*Presley has sold over a billion records globally.

*Presley only performed in three cities outside the U.S., which are [[Ottawa]], [[Vancouver]] and [[Toronto]], [[Canada]]. This is because of the influence of Col. Parker, despite overwhelming fan demand Presley to perform internationally.

*Presley only performed in three cities outside the U.S., which are [[Ottawa]], [[Vancouver]] and [[Toronto]], [[Canada]]. This is because of the influence of Col. Parker, despite overwhelming fan demand for Presley to perform internationally.

*Presley purchased Graceland for $102,500 (equivalent to about $891,000 in 2017) in 1957 at age 22.

*Presley purchased Graceland for $102,500 (equivalent to about $891,000 in 2017) in 1957 at age 22.

*Presley's natural hair color was a sandy blonde; he dyed it black.

*Presley's natural hair color was a sandy blonde; he dyed it black.