Elvis Aaron Presley, born on 8 January 1935, also known mononymously as Elvis, was an American singer and
actor. Known as ‘King of Rock and Roll, he is regarded as one of the most significant
cultural figures of the 20th century. Flaunting his curled lip, long
sideburns, swivelling hips, and over-greased pompadour, he popularized rock and
roll music in America in the '50s. His charm left many ladies floored back then
while men took tips from him on how to woo women.
In 1956, following his six television
appearances on The Dorsey Brothers' "Stage Show", Elvis was cast in his first acting role, in a supporting part in Love Me Tender (1956),
the first of 33 movies he starred in. The 31
feature films as an actor and two theatrically released
concert documentary films, all enjoyed financial success. For a number of years,
he was one of Hollywood's top box office draws and one of its highest-paid
actors.
In 1977, the three-time Grammy winner's shocking death left the
world saddened. He reportedly suffered from a heart attack, likely brought on
by his diet and drug use. Even though the singer is not with us
anymore, he lives on through his legacy.
Known
both for his iconic songs which are still considered as classic hits and his
high-octane performances on-stage, the singer-actor was given the honorific
title of the ‘King of Rock and Roll’ for his many achievements over a short but
influential span of his career.
On this
special occasion for the best-selling solo artist of all time, let’s take a
trip down the streets of his timeless music released decades ago, which is
still listened to and enjoyed by millions of his fans worldwide. Here are a few
of the many tunes which make Elvis an evergreen artist.
JAILHOUSE ROCK
This funky and upbeat number from Elvis’ 1957 film
having the same name was an instant success on the musical charts worldwide at
the time. The song’s jovial and suggestive lyrics were contrasted by the
intense and raspy vocals of the three-time Grammy Award-winning singer, making
for an interestingly rocking number that fans love to this day.
IF I CAN DREAM
This solemn and heart-stirring ballad was performed
by Elvis in tribute to legendary Civil Rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. in
1968 at a Television special. His rich and moving vocal performance was
appreciated by many and is considered one of his best works to date.
CAN’T HELP FALLING IN LOVE
This romantic mid-tempo number has some of the most
romantic lyrics in the musical repertoire of Elvis. Released in 1961 as part of
his album ‘Blue Hawaii’, the song is an evergreen Valentine’s Day classic and
has been sung by several prominent artists, including Celine Dion and Britney
Spears.
SUSPICIOUS MINDS
Originally recorded in 1968 by songwriter Mark James, the song
became an overnight success once Elvis released his version in 1969. The lyrics
highlight issues faced by a couple in a relationship, stressing the need to
overcome them. The song was released just two years into Elvis’ marriage with
Priscilla Presley, leading to fans’ belief that the Guinness Record-holding
artist had poured some of his personal emotions while singing the song.
BLUE SUEDE SHOES
This catchy number is iconically associated with
Elvis not just because of its infectious energetic vibe but also because the
singer himself owned a pair of blue suede shoes, which became famous after this
song came out in 1956. The number was originally a #1 hit by Carl Perkins, a
friend of Elvis, but today, it is remembered as an evergreen song of the rock
and roll legend.
No comments:
Post a Comment