Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley, (Aaron) (1935-77). US popular singer. He began by singing country and western songs in Memphis and later combined this style with Black rhythm and blues. His first hit record, ‘Heartbreak Hotel’ (1956), helped to revolutionize popular music. Though he spent two years doing National Service (1958-60) and much of his subsequent work was inferior, his songs and films enjoyed continuing popularity in the 1960s and 1970s. Known as the ‘King of Rock and Roll’, he later turned to cabaret work and attracted older audiences. He died of heart failure and was mourned by millions of his fans all over the world. He remains a powerful cult figure.
