Profile of the Day: Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley

Forty years ago today, Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll, died at the age of 42.

The music legend was born on January 8, 1935 in Tupelo, Mississippi in a two-room shotgun house built by his grandfather. His twin brother, Jesse, died during childbirth. Although he grew up poor, by the time of his death, Presley had become one of the most successful musicians in history.

After exploding into the spotlight with his 1956 appearance on The Milton Berle Show, Presley dominated the charts and ushered in a new era of music and popular culture.

In his final years, Presley’s health had declined and he formed a dangerous dependence on prescription drugs. On August 16, 1977, Presley was found unresponsive in his home at Graceland. He was pronounced dead after arriving at the hospital. Presley is buried at Graceland next to his mother. To this day, thousands of fans from around the world visit Graceland to pay their respects to the singer.

What’s your favorite song?

Explore Elvis Presley’s family tree on Geni and share how you’re related to the King of Rock and Roll.
 

View Elvis Presley’s Geni Profile

Image: Wikimedia Commons