Elvis Presley

In June of 1933, Elvis Presley's parents, Gladys Love Smith and Vernon Elvis Presley, got married.

Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll, was born on January 8, 1935.

In 1938, Elvis Presley's father was imprisoned for altering a four-dollar check, leading Elvis and his mother to move in with relatives in Tupelo.

In 1941, Elvis Presley started attending school at the age of four, marking a significant milestone in his early life.

Elvis received his first guitar lesson from the new young pastor at the church he attended, Frank Smith. He showed more interest in these lessons than in his school studies.

A photograph of Elvis with a wagon from 1943.

Elvis, at the age of ten, participated in a radio talent contest at the Mississippi-Alabama Fair after impressing his teacher with his musical talent. He surprised his mother by singing 'Old Shep' and won fifth prize.

Elvis Presley acquired his first guitar in 1946, marking the beginning of his musical journey.

Arthur 'Big Boy' Crudup records the song That´s All Right, which is backed with Blue Moon of Kentucky. This recording becomes the first of five singles released by Elvis on the Sun label.

Elvis makes an appearance at the Overton Park Shell in Memphis. His nervousness leads him to move constantly during the performance, causing enthusiastic screams from the audience, especially the girls. Scotty Moore attributes the excitement to Elvis' unique leg shaking.

Elvis makes his debut on the Louisiana Hayride, a popular country radio show broadcast from Shreveport, LA.

Elvis and his family relocate to Memphis, Tennessee.

A photograph of Elvis circa 1949, a year after his family moved to Memphis.

In 1950, Elvis Presley began practicing guitar under the tutelage of his neighbor, Lee Denson. This marked the beginning of his musical journey.

Elvis Presley completes his high school education at Humes High School in Memphis, Tennessee after moving there. He showcases his talent by performing at the school talent contest and is first discovered.

On July 5, 1953, Elvis Presley, along with guitarist Scotty Moore and bass player Bill Black, recorded 'That's All Right' at Sun Records. This recording session marked the beginning of Presley's rise to fame in the music industry.

On Saturday, June 26, 1954, Elvis Presley received a call from Marion Keisker at Sun Records, asking him to come in. This led to the recording of a speeded-up version of Arthur 'Big Boy' Crudup's 'That's All Right,' which became the music Sam Phillips had been looking for.

On July 5, 1954, Elvis Presley recorded his first demo, showcasing his musical talent to the world.

Elvis Presley, Scotty Moore, and Bill Black gathered at SUN Records with no prepared material. Bill Monroe's song 'Blue Moon Of Kentucky' was sung by Bill in a high falsetto voice at a fast tempo, inspiring Elvis to join in. The recording was sent to nearby radio stations, marking the beginning of Elvis' music career.

Elvis Presley, along with his trio, performed publicly for the first time at the Bon Air club on July 17, 1954. This marked the beginning of his journey as a musician and performer.

Elvis Presley made his first professional appearance on July 30, 1954, marking the beginning of his career in the music industry.

Elvis Presley made his only appearance on Nashville's Grand Ole Opry on October 2. Despite receiving a polite audience response, Opry manager Jim Denny did not think he suited the program.

Elvis Presley made his debut appearance on the Louisiana Hayride, a popular live Saturday-night country music radio show, on October 16, 1954.

On November 20, 1955, Elvis Presley signed his first contract, a pivotal moment that shaped his future in the music business.

On November 21, 1955, RCA Victor struck a deal to acquire Elvis Presley's Sun contract for an unprecedented $40,000. This deal marked a significant milestone in Presley's career, signaling his transition to a major record label and paving the way for his commercial success.

Elvis Presley made his first recordings for RCA Victor in Nashville with guitarist Chet Atkins and background singers, producing the single 'Heartbreak Hotel'.

Record Mirror publishes the first image of Elvis Presley in the United Kingdom.

On January 27, 1956, Elvis Presley released his first Gold Record, "Heartbreak Hotel," which sold more than 1,000,000 copies.

On January 27, 1956, Elvis Presley released his iconic song "Heartbreak Hotel", which became a massive hit and solidified his status as a music legend.

Elvis Presley appeared on CBS's Stage Show for the first time, beginning a series of six appearances over two months.

Elvis Presley is stopped by the police for speeding.

Elvis Presley's debut album is released by RCA in the USA, selling over a million copies and becoming his first Gold Album.

RCA Victor released Elvis' self-titled debut album, which included a mix of country, pop, and rock and roll songs. The album topped the Billboard chart for 10 weeks.

Elvis made his first appearance on NBC's Milton Berle Show on the deck of the USS Hancock in San Diego, receiving cheers and screams from an audience of sailors and their dates.

Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley exchanged autographs at Overton Park Shell in Memphis on June 1, 1956.

Elvis Presley delivers a highly controversial and provocative performance of Hound Dog on the Milton Berle show, earning him the nickname 'The Pelvis'. The performance is considered very sexy for the time.

Elvis Presley appeared on The Steve Allen Show in New York, where Allen introduced a 'new Elvis' in a white bowtie and black tails. Despite Allen's initial skepticism of rock and roll, he later found Presley's charisma intriguing and incorporated him into the comedy fabric of the program.

Elvis made an outdoor concert appearance in Memphis where he declared his determination to stay true to himself despite criticism. This event showcased Elvis' rebellious spirit and dedication to his art.

On July 4, 1956, Elvis went to Scotty Moore's house to sing with Scotty and Bill Black. They sang songs like 'I Love You Because'. This meeting led to discussions about Elvis's potential and the decision to rehearse the next night at SUN Studio.

Elvis Presley performs at the Florida Theatre in Jacksonville, Florida. Juvenile Court Judge Marion Gooding attends the concert to assess the controversy surrounding Elvis' performances. Gooding requests a toned-down show after witnessing Elvis' provocative moves.

Recording sessions for Elvis' second album took place in Hollywood, with notable songwriters Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller contributing the song Love Me. This marked a significant step in Elvis' music career.

Elvis Presley made his first appearance on television's 'The Ed Sullivan Show' on September 9, 1956, drawing 60 million viewers, which was more than 80 percent of the national television audience.

Elvis Presley's song Hound Dog becomes his third Top 10 single in Britain, solidifying his international success and popularity.

Elvis Presley made a return appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show, which was hosted by Ed Sullivan himself. After the performance, there were effigy burnings in Nashville and St. Louis.

Elvis Presley's first movie 'Love Me Tender' was released on November 15, 1956.

Elvis' first movie, Love Me Tender, has its premiere in the USA. This marks the beginning of Elvis Presley's acting career.

Elvis Presley's first motion picture, Love Me Tender, was released. Originally titled 'The Reno Brothers', it was changed to capitalize on his hit song 'Love Me Tender'. The film received mixed reviews from critics but performed well at the box office.

Elvis Presley had an impromptu jam session at Sun Records with Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Johnny Cash. The session, known as the 'Million Dollar Quartet' recordings, was captured on tape.

Elvis' first movie, Love Me Tender, has its London premiere. The film continues to garner attention and success in different parts of the world.

Elvis makes an appearance on the Sullivan show, where careful camera work ensures that he is only seen from the waist up. This iconic performance further solidifies his status as a music sensation.

Elvis Presley makes his third appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show, where network executives decide to show him only from the waist up due to concerns about his gyrating dance style being too lewd.

Elvis Presley's single 'Heartbreak Hotel' was released on January 27, 1957. This marked a significant moment in the history of popular music and contributed to Elvis's rise as a cultural icon.

Elvis Presley purchased his iconic mansion, Graceland. This was before the release of his second film 'Loving You' and his third straight number-one album.

Elvis Presley stars in the major motion picture 'Jailhouse Rock' alongside Judy Tyler and Mickey Shaughnessy.

In December 1957, Elvis Presley, already a major star, was drafted into the U.S. military. He was inducted as a private in March 1958 and served in the Army, achieving the rank of sergeant before being honorably discharged in March 1960.

Elvis Presley enlists in the army.

On March 25, 1958, Elvis Presley receives his famous G.I. haircut at Fort Chaffee, Arkansas, as part of his Army induction process.

In June 1958, Elvis Presley arrived at Fort Hood, Texas, for his basic training in the Army. He was stationed there for six months.

On June 20, 1958, Elvis Presley had his last recording session until 1960 after completing his basic training. One of the songs recorded during this session was 'A Big Hunk O' Love'.

On July 2, 1958, Elvis Presley's parents moved into a temporary trailer near the Army base at Fort Hood, Texas. They later moved into a house on July 1.

Gladys Presley becomes ill with acute hepatitis and passes away at the age of 46 in Memphis. Her body lies in state at Graceland before the funeral services.

Funeral services for Gladys Presley are held at the Memphis Funeral Home, with the Blackwood Brothers singing her favorite hymns. She is laid to rest at Forest Hill Cemetery.

In September 1958, Elvis Presley boards a troop train to New York before later sailing to Germany on the USS Randall. This marks the beginning of his Army years.

Elvis Presley arrives in Germany on October 1, 1958, where he will be stationed in Friedberg for 18 months. He maintains an off-base residence in Bad Nauheim during this time.

On January 8, 1959, Elvis Presley's Army years in Europe begin, exposing him to enthusiastic fans on the continent. His time in Germany marks a significant period in his life and career.

On a three-day leave, Elvis travels to Munich where he visits actress Vera Tschechow. This event highlights Elvis' international travels and connections with celebrities.

Colonel Parker continues to promote Elvis' career with promotions and hit record releases. This highlights the important role of Colonel Parker in managing Elvis' success.

Priscilla Ann, the 14 year-old stepdaughter of Captain Joseph Beaulieu, meets Elvis Presley at a party held at his home in Germany. This meeting marks the beginning of their relationship.

Elvis travels to Paris with his karate instructor to study under a Japanese karate teacher, focusing on the shotokan technique.

Elvis is promoted to the rank of Sergeant in the military, and he is scheduled to receive his full sergeant's stripes on February 11, 1960.

Elvis Presley's time in the army comes to an end in Germany as he prepares to leave for the United States.

Elvis Presley arrives at Prestwick Airport in Scotland, where he was greeted by local fans despite a security clampdown. He interacted with the fans and stayed in Scotland for two hours.

Elvis Presley is officially discharged from active duty, marking the end of his military service.

Elvis Presley arrives back at Graceland after serving in the army, greeted by press and fans.

Elvis had his first recording session after serving in the Army. He worked on songs for the album 'Elvis is Back!' which later became a hit. The single 'Stuck On You' quickly rose to the top of the charts.

Elvis Presley, who developed an interest in karate during his time in the Army, achieves his first degree black belt.

Elvis appeared on a special episode of Frank Sinatra's TV show, where he was paid a record-breaking sum of $125,000. This marked a significant milestone in Elvis's career.

ABC airs a special edition of Frank Sinatra's variety show titled 'Welcome Home, Elvis,' for which Elvis Presley was paid a significant amount of $125,000.

Elvis made a guest appearance on The Frank Sinatra Timex Special, also known as Welcome Home Elvis. This was the only time in the year that Elvis performed in front of an audience, and he was paid an unprecedented $125,000 for eight minutes of singing. The show garnered a huge viewership.

Vernon Presley marries Davada Stanley, an American divorcee and mother of three sons whom he met in Germany. They briefly live at Graceland before moving to a nearby home.

On July 21, 1960, Elvis Presley achieved his first degree black belt in karate, a passion he developed during his time in the Army. He cherished the certificate and carried it in his wallet until his passing.

On October 1, 1960, Elvis Presley joined the 3rd Armored Division in Friedberg, Germany, after completing his training at Fort Hood. During his military service, Elvis also began studying karate seriously and displayed generosity towards his fellow soldiers.

Elvis becomes the first act in history to have five number ones in the UK with his fifth hit, It's Now Or Never.

The soundtrack album for 'GI Blues' by Elvis Presley entered the Billboard album chart and quickly climbed to the top spot, where it remained for 10 consecutive weeks. It also stayed on the chart for a total of 111 weeks, becoming the most successful album of Elvis' career on the Billboard charts.

'GI Blues' premieres across the nation on November 23, receiving positive reviews and achieving significant box office success, solidifying its position as one of the best movies in Elvis Presley's post-Army career.

Elvis appears at a luncheon in his honor in Memphis, displaying his recent awards. He then performs afternoon and evening shows at Ellis Auditorium to benefit around 38 Memphis-area charities, marking his first live performances since his Army discharge.

Elvis secures his seventh UK number one with the song Wooden Heart.

On March 25, 1961, Elvis staged a benefit concert in Hawaii to raise money for a Pearl Harbor memorial. This concert would be his last public performance for the next seven years.

Elvis Presley remains in Hawaii to film scenes for his eighth motion picture 'Blue Hawaii' after completing the soundtrack recording. He later returns to Hollywood for additional filming before the movie's release later in the year. This visit solidifies Hawaii as one of Elvis' favorite vacation destinations.

On December 20, 1961, Elvis Presley finished filming his 10th motion picture, 'Kid Galahad'. This marked another milestone in his acting career, adding to his extensive filmography during the early 1960s.

Elvis Presley's song (Marie's The Name) His Latest Flame becomes his ninth number one hit in the UK in November 1962.

Elvis Presley's song Return To Sender reaches number one in the UK on December 13, 1962.

Priscilla Beaulieu flies from West Germany to visit Elvis Presley in Memphis for Christmas in 1962, marking the beginning of their relationship.

Elvis Presley travels to Las Vegas in July 1963 to film one of his most popular movies, Viva Las Vegas.

In October 1963, Elvis Presley records music and shoots scenes for his fifteenth movie, Kissin' Cousins.

Elvis Presley, also known as the 'King of Rock and Roll', was a legendary American singer and actor who had a major impact on popular music in the 20th century.

In May 1965, work begins on Elvis' twentieth motion picture, which will be released out of chronological order as his twenty-first, titled Frankie and Johnny.

In June 1965, Elvis achieves his fifteenth number one hit in the UK with the song Crying In The Chapel.

In July 1965, Elvis donates $50,000 to the Motion Picture Relief Fund, the largest single donation the organization had received up to that date.

In August 1965, Elvis is filming Paradise, Hawaiian Style, and visits the USS Arizona Memorial, a site he had helped to build with his donations.

In February 1966, Elvis Presley was busy working on his 22nd movie, Spinout.

From June to September 1966, Elvis Presley was filming Double Trouble, which was shot back to back with his 24th movie, Easy Come, Easy Go.

Elvis proposed to Priscilla Beaulieu shortly before Christmas in 1966, after more than seven years since they first met.

On May 1, 1967, Elvis Presley gets married to Priscilla Beaulieu in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Elvis and Priscilla dress in their wedding clothes and have a second wedding reception in the trophy room at Graceland to include their family and friends who were not in Las Vegas for the wedding.

Elvis and Priscilla Beaulieu's daughter, Lisa Marie, is born on February 1, 1968.

In 1968, Elvis Presley made a notable appearance on NBC known as 'The '68 Comeback Special'.

Elvis performs a four-week, fifty-seven show engagement at the International Hotel in Las Vegas, leading to the recording of his first live album, 'Elvis in Person at the International Hotel'.

Elvis took to the stage in Las Vegas without introduction, receiving multiple standing ovations from the audience. His performance, including the encore 'Can't Help Falling in Love', was well-received and set the tone for his future shows.

Elvis gives six performances at the Houston Astrodome from February 27 to March 1, drawing large crowds despite acoustic problems.

In 1970, Elvis started wearing his trademark jumpsuits on stage.

Elvis concluded his engagement at the International on September 7 and embarked on a week-long concert tour, mainly in the South. This tour marked his first extensive concert tour since 1958.

Elvis embarks on a nine-city tour, with the Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Phoenix being one of the tour dates captured in the documentary Elvis - That's The Way It Is.

Elvis had a meeting with President Nixon at the White House on December 21, 1970. During the meeting, Elvis expressed his patriotism and disdain for the hippie drug culture, requesting a Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs badge from Nixon.

Elvis is honored by the United States Junior Chamber of Commerce (The Jaycees) as One of the Ten Outstanding Young Men of the Nation.

Elvis and his wife, Priscilla, separated on February 23, 1972, after Priscilla revealed her relationship with Mike Stone, a karate instructor recommended by Elvis.

On July 10, 1972, Elvis Presley performed a concert at Madison Square Garden, which was later released as the album 'Elvis: As Recorded at Madison Square Garden'.

Elvis and Priscilla Presley filed for divorce on August 18, 1972.

Elvis Presley performed a rehearsal concert for 'Aloha From Hawaii' on January 12, 1973.

The 'Aloha from Hawaii' concert, aired on January 14, 1973, was the first global concert satellite broadcast, reaching approximately 1.5 billion viewers live and on tape delay.

Elvis returns to Las Vegas at the Hilton for a series of performances from January 26 to February 23.

Elvis makes an appearance at the Sahara Hotel in Lake Tahoe, Nevada from May 4 to May 16.

Elvis and Priscilla Presley officially got divorced on October 9, 1973.

Elvis Presley was hospitalized on November 23, 1973.

Elvis is back at the Hilton in Las Vegas for performances from January 26 to February 9 in 1974.

On April 17, 1975, Elvis purchased a Convair 880 Jet previously used by Delta Airlines for $250,000, which after refurbishing cost over $600,000. He renamed it the Lisa Marie.

While performing at the Hilton in 1975, Elvis receives an offer from Barbra Streisand and Jon Peters to play the lead role in the remake of 'A Star is Born'. This opportunity could have marked a significant shift in Elvis' acting career, but unfortunately, it does not materialize.

Elvis makes an appearance at the Sahara-Tahoe from October 11 to October 14 in 1975.

Elvis Presley is hospitalized again for drug related medical issues, leading to a decline in his health.

On March 20, 1976, Elvis recorded 'How Great Thou Art' which won him his third and final competitive Grammy Award. This achievement highlighted his talent in gospel music.

On July 13, 1976, Vernon Presley fired 'Memphis Mafia' bodyguards Red West, Sonny West, and David Hebler due to financial reasons and legal issues. This decision had an impact on Elvis' security team.

Elvis Presley starts an engagement at the Hilton but it is cut short on the 20th as he returns to a hospital in Memphis until September 5.

From December 2-12, 1976, Elvis Presley makes his final appearance at the Hilton.

Elvis Presley performs a special New Year's Eve concert in Pontiac, Michigan, setting a single performance attendance record of 62,500.

On December 31, 1976, Elvis Presley gives a special New Year's Eve performance in Pittsburgh, PA.

Legendary musician Elvis Presley passed away in 1977, leaving behind a lasting impact on the music industry and popular culture.

From April 1-5, 1977, Elvis Presley is hospitalized, leading to the cancellation of some of his shows.

Elvis Presley's last single issued during his lifetime, 'Way Down', was released on June 6, 1977. This marked one of his final musical releases before his passing.

On June 19, 20, 21, 1977, concerts are recorded by RCA and videotaped by CBS for the upcoming special Elvis in Concert, revealing Elvis Presley's declining health.

Elvis Presley performs his final concert in Indianapolis.

Elvis Presley passes away at the age of 42 in Graceland. He was discovered on the bathroom floor by his fiancee, Ginger Alden.

Elvis Presley was buried at Forest Hill Cemetery in Memphis.

In October 1977, the remains of Elvis Presley and his mother were reburied in Graceland's Meditation Garden following an attempt to steal his body. This marked the final resting place for the iconic singer.

Vernon Presley, Elvis Presley's father, passed away.

Graceland, Elvis Presley's former home, was opened to the public in 1982 under the direction of Priscilla Presley. It has since become a major tourist destination and a place of pilgrimage for fans.

In 1984, Elvis was recognized by the Blues Foundation with the W.C. Handy Award for 'keeping the blues alive in his music - rock and roll'.

In 1986, Elvis was among the first group of inductees into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Elvis was posthumously honored with the Award of Merit by the American Music Awards in 1987.

Lisa Marie Presley announced her pregnancy and married Danny Keough.

Lisa Marie Presley gave birth to a baby girl named Danielle.

In 1991, Graceland Mansion, Elvis Presley's home and refuge for twenty years, was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. This recognition solidified Graceland's status as one of the most famous homes in America.

In 1992, the U.S. Postal Service decided to issue a commemorative postage stamp featuring Elvis Presley. The public was given the choice between two images, with the younger rocker image winning. The stamp was released on January 8, 1993, and became the most popular commemorative postage stamp in U.S. Postal Service history.

The autopsy report of Elvis Presley was reopened in 1994, with a new conclusion stating that there was no evidence to support a death from drugs, but rather pointing to a sudden heart attack. This contradicted previous claims made by medical professionals involved in the case.

Elvis Presley's original 1956 recording of Heartbreak Hotel was inducted into the NARAS Hall of Fame in 1995.

Elvis Australia was founded in 1996 with the aim of representing 'Elvis in Australia'. The website www.elvis.com.au was created to provide information and resources related to Elvis Presley.

On August 16, 1997, Lisa Marie and Priscilla surprise guests at a concert commemorating the 20th anniversary of Elvis' death. Lisa sings publicly for the first time, performing a touching duet with a background video of Elvis.

Elvis Presley's original 1954 recording of That's All Right was inducted into the NARAS Hall of Fame in 1998.

Elvis Presley's original 1969 recording of Suspicious Minds was inducted into the NARAS Hall of Fame in 1999.

Elvis was inducted into the Gospel Music Association's Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2001, becoming the only person to be a member of all three halls of fame - Rock and Roll, Country, and Gospel.

Priscilla Presley opened a tribute concert at the Pyramid arena in Memphis, Tennessee to mark the 25th anniversary of Elvis' death. She thanked the crowd of 14,000 for their loyalty and support for Elvis. Lisa Marie and her new husband, actor Nicolas Cage, were also in attendance.

In 2003, a remix of Elvis Presley's song 'Rubberneckin'' and a 50th-anniversary re-release of 'That's All Right' both topped the U.S. sales chart, showcasing the enduring popularity of Presley's music. The reissues of his singles also achieved chart success in the UK.

More than 1000 radio stations around the world simultaneously played Elvis Presley's first professional record, 'That's All Right', to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the recording of the track at Sun Studios.

Elvis Presley's record company began an 18-week long campaign of releasing a limited number of each of his former chart-topping singles, one per week, to commemorate what would have been his 70th birthday. This initiative made Elvis the first artist to have 20+ number ones and the first to break the '1000 weeks in the Top 40' barrier.

Jerry Schilling discusses his new book 'Me and a Guy Named Elvis' in an interview on Fresh Air. The book explores his lifelong friendship with Elvis Presley.

In 2012, a spider species called Paradonea presleyi was named in honor of Elvis Presley, showcasing his lasting impact and influence beyond music.

Elvis' two room birthplace in Tupelo is opened to the public for visitors to explore and learn about the early life of the legendary musician.

In 2018, President Donald Trump posthumously awarded Elvis Presley the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his significant contributions to American music and culture.

A week-long event dedicated to celebrating the life and legacy of Elvis Presley in 2019.

The celebration of Elvis Presley's birthday in 2020 at Graceland.

In 2022, Baz Luhrmann's film Elvis, a biographical film about Presley's life, was released. The film grossed $261.8 million worldwide and Austin Butler won the Golden Globe for his portrayal of Presley.

In January 2023, Elvis Presley's 1962 Lockheed 1329 JetStar was sold at an auction for $260,000.

A competition held in 2024 to find the best Elvis Tribute Artist, with preliminary contests and semifinalists.

The Guest House at Graceland is located at 3600 Elvis Presley Blvd in Memphis, TN. It is a hotel near Graceland, offering accommodation for visitors.

Graceland, the former home of Elvis Presley, is located at 3717 Elvis Presley Blvd in Memphis, TN. It is only 10 minutes from downtown and 3 minutes from the Memphis Airport.