Memphis, Tennessee – Home of Elvis Presley
Often considered the founder of pop music and the rock and roll music movement, Elvis Aaron Presley was a legend during his lifetime and his death left a pair of unfilled blue suede shoes. Known for his dark hair, lip curls and hip gyrations, the King of Modern Music spent much of his life in Memphis.
His family first moved to Memphis when Presley was just 13, having been born in Tupelo, Mississippi. Here he first touched African American music – an important formative experience for this young budding musician. In November 1948, Elvis moved to the Courts apartment complex in Memphis and enrolled at Humes High School.
Beale Street in downtown Memphis was a growing blues scene where Elvis drew much of his inspiration. Stretching along the Mississippi River to East Street, the area is still a hot spot for tourists with regular outdoor festivals and concerts. Presley went out and listened to rhythm and blues, sensing the musical talent of artists such as Sister Rosetta, Arthur Crudup and Rufus Thomas.
If you’re lucky enough to have an office in Memphis or live in the area, then you’re in the heart of Elvis land! Elvis himself took several jobs in the area as a teenager growing up there, working shifts at Loew’s State Theatre, MARL Metal Products and Precision Tool.
But perhaps Elvis’ most famous legacy is the Graceland mansion at 3764 Elvis Presley Boulevard on Highway 51 South. Standing out from the crowd with tall white columns and a 13.8 acre estate, the mansion has since been turned into a museum in honor of the singer. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in March 2006, and only the White House boasts more visitors to an American attraction. Elvis has lived here since 1957 with his mother Gladys and father Vernon Presley.
Sadly, it was at Graceland that Elvis died on August 16, 1977, leaving behind a host of unforgettable songs. From Heartbreak Hotel to Hound Dog, Elvis had hit after hit and legions of screaming fans who were deeply saddened by the loss of this icon. His most popular tunes include All Shook Up, Are You Lonesome Tonight?, Blue Suede Shoes, Can’t Help Falling in Love, I Can’t Stop Loving You, Jailhouse Rock, It’s Now or Never, A Little Less Conversation and Love Me Gentle. However, his musical legacy lives on, with millions around the world still hailing the King.
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