Elvis Presley at 90: Acknowledging His Musical Influences

Elvis Presley, often hailed as the "King of Rock 'n' Roll," was born on January 8, 1935, in Tupelo, Mississippi. He rose to fame in the 1950s and 60s with hits that remain popular today, including "Jailhouse Rock," "Suspicious Minds," and "Can’t Help Falling In Love." Many contemporary musicians, from Bruce Springsteen to Dolly Parton, acknowledge Presley's profound influence on their artistic journeys.

While Presley's impact on the music industry is undeniable, it is crucial to recognize the rich tapestry of Black music that influenced his career. Growing up, Presley was surrounded by the sounds of influential Black artists such as B.B. King and Fats Domino, and he was inspired by the gospel music he heard in church and the rhythm and blues from Memphis's Beale Street. These experiences shaped his unique sound and performance style.

After serving in the U.S. Army from 1958 to 1960, Presley continued to be a dominant force in music, captivating audiences with concerts like "Aloha From Hawaii" in 1973, which was broadcast live via satellite. Despite personal struggles and a rise in drug use, his music continued to resonate, leading him to a successful acting career in films such as "Love Me Tender" and "Blue Hawaii." However, not all of his films met with critical acclaim.

Tragically, Presley passed away at the young age of 42 on August 16, 1977, due to heart disease, which left a significant void in the music world. His daughter, Lisa Marie, also pursued a career in music and released the album "To Whom It May Concern" in 2003, peaking at No. 5 on the Billboard 200 chart before her untimely passing in 2023.

Elvis’s legacy continues to flourish, reflected in the popularity of numerous biopics about his life, such as the 2022 film "Elvis," directed by Baz Luhrmann. The way his life and music are celebrated underscores his lasting influence. However, one must consider whether the accolades he received were solely his own or if they were also shared with the talented Black artists he covered.

One of his most famous singles, "Hound Dog," was originally recorded by Willie Mae "Big Mama" Thornton. Although Thornton's version was a hit and earned her recognition in the music world, she was only compensated $500 for her work, while Elvis's cover reached unprecedented commercial success. Similarly, "Don’t Be Cruel," a track he also popularized, was penned by Black songwriter Otis Blackwell, who remained relatively obscure compared to Presley's fame.<\/p>

The issue of cultural appropriation in music is a significant conversation point. As we continue to explore Presley's legacy, it is vital to recognize the contributions of Black artists in shaping his career. Some critics argue that Presley benefited from a system that often marginalized these artists while elevating his status. Others believe that his work helped bring awareness to the artistry of Black musicians, contributing to a broader recognition of their contributions to music.<\/p>

As we commemorate Presley's 90th birthday, fans are reminded to listen closely to the songs that shaped his career. Recognizing the work of Big Mama Thornton, Otis Blackwell, and Fats Domino is essential in understanding the roots of Elvis's music. Their influence is forever part of his story, and honoring them is crucial in the narrative of rock and roll history.

Elvis, Music, Influence