WMTR Celebrity Birthday: Elvis Presley – January 8, 1935

Born: January 8, 1935

Singer

Age would have been in 2023: 89

Elvis Aaron Presley, also known as "The King", is one of the most iconic and lasting artists in rock and roll. Even outside of the music world, Elvis is one of the most important cultural figures of all time with his appeal spanning several generations.
Born in Mississippi Elvis grew up in Memphis, Tennessee. In 1954 Elvis released his first single, That's All Right, with his debut album to follow shortly after. Presley's style of singing and guitar playing cemented him as one of the earliest rockabilly artists and he was the leader in 1950s and 60s rock and roll. Despite early backlash to his music from older Americans he continued to gain popularity and success. His 1956 self-titled release reached number one on the US charts, sold over 1 million copies in the first year and has since been certified platinum.
In his 24 year career, Elvis released 23 studio albums, 8 live albums, 18 soundtrack albums and many more singles, EPs, and box sets. 16 of his studio albums have been certified as either gold, platinum, or multi-platinum. The 1957 Elvis' Christmas Album is his only release to be certified diamond after selling more than 20 million copies worldwide.
In his lifetime Elvis did so much more than the music he is renowned for. He starred in over 30 feature films and collaborated with many prominent artists. Elvis also spent two years in the United States Army from 1958-1960, serving his country while amid his budding musical career.
Although Elvis passed away in 1977 his legacy is still very much alive today. Since 1977 there have been over 100 posthumous releases of Elvis Presley's music! This includes new singles, compilations, and live albums. In 2022 Elvis' life and story got a fresh jolt of energy when his biopic came out starring Austin Butler, Tom Hanks, and Olivia DeJonge.
With a long list of impressive accolades, Elvis remains one of the best-selling artists of all time. He is a three-time Grammy Award winner and has sold over 500 million records worldwide! He also has the most albums that have charted on the Billboard Top 200, 129!
Check out five of Elvis Presley's best songs below!