Presley, Elvis Aaron

views updated

Presley, Elvis Aaron (1935–77) US rock-and-roll singer. In 1953, he was signed to Sam Phillips' Sun Records in Memphis, Tennessee. In 1956, Presley took America by storm with his pelvic-thrusting performances of hits such as “Heartbreak Hotel”, “Hound Dog”, and “Love Me Tender”. He starred in 33 highly successful films, including Jailhouse Rock (1957), King Creole (1958), and G.I. Blues (1960). Presley died at his Graceland mansion in Memphis, Tennessee, of a heart attack induced by drug dependence. He became a cult figure.

About this article

Presley, Elvis Aaron

Updated About encyclopedia.com content Print Article