(Aron) (1935-1977) US singer and guitarist, the most influential performer of the rock-and-roll era. With his recordings for Sun Records in Memphis, Tennessee, 1954–55 and early hits such as ‘Heartbreak Hotel’, ‘Hound Dog’, and ‘Love Me Tender’, all 1956, he created an individual vocal style, influenced by Southern blues, gospel music, country music, and rhythm and blues. His records continued to sell in their millions into the 1990s.
Presley was born in Tupelo, Mississippi. In the mid-1950s he met Colonel Tom Parker, who would manage his career for his entire life. In addition to selling millions of records, Presley acted in 33 motion pictures and made numerous television appearances. From the late 1960s, he took a Las Vegas-based touring act on the road. He died at Graceland, his mansion in Memphis, 1977, the victim of drug dependence.