Autobiography of Elvis Presley
My Life, in My Words
Childhood
Hello, y’all! Elvis Aron Presley here, but you might just know me as “The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.” I was born in a tiny, two-room shotgun house in Tupelo, Mississippi, on January 8, 1935. I had a twin brother, Jesse Garon, but he was stillborn, leaving me as an only child. Growing up during the Great Depression, times were tough, but my folks – Vernon and Gladys – did their best to provide.
My family was deeply religious, attending the Assembly of God Church. It was there where I first fell in love with music. Gospel songs resonated deep within me. The energy and passion put into that music, I believe, was my first real music teacher.
My First Guitar
When I turned 11, my momma gifted me my first guitar from the Tupelo Hardware Store. It wasn’t the bike I wanted, but that $6.95 guitar sparked the beginnings of a journey that would change not just my life, but also the world of music.
The moment my fingers strummed those strings, something just felt right. I started taking guitar lessons and participated in talent shows. Over time, I combined my love for gospel, country music, and rhythm and blues into my own unique style.
Sun Studio: The Big Break
In 1953, I walked into Sun Studio in Memphis with the hopes of making a record. I was nervous but eager. A young man with a big dream, I simply wanted to record a song for my momma’s birthday. Little did I know that this would change everything. Sam Phillips, the owner, recognized my potential and things started taking off.
It was in July 1954 when we recorded “That’s All Right, Mama.” The energy in the studio was electric, and we knew we had something special on our hands. And boy, we were right. The song was a massive hit on Memphis radio, and it kick-started my career.
The Birth of Rock ‘n’ Roll
I signed with RCA Victor in 1955, one of the biggest record companies back then. I felt like I was in a dream. Suddenly, I was recording in big studios and my singles were being heard across the country. It was also during this time when I got my nickname “Elvis the Pelvis,” due to my energetic and provocative dance moves.
My first RCA single, “Heartbreak Hotel,” became a number-one hit in the US. It was a whirlwind. I released my first album, made television appearances, and even started my acting career. It felt like the birth of rock ‘n’ roll, and I was right at the center of it.
Military Service: A New Chapter
In 1958, just as my career was soaring, I was drafted into the U.S. Army. It was a challenging time, but it gave me a different perspective on life. During my service, I met my future wife, Priscilla, in Germany.
The army gave me some discipline, a break from the limelight, and a chance to miss my music. My mother’s death in 1958 while I was in service was one of the hardest moments in my life. The grief was immeasurable, but it also made me stronger.
The ’60s: Movies, Marriage, and Fatherhood
After my discharge from the army in 1960, I focused on my movie career. I starred in a number of successful films such as “Blue Hawaii,” “Girls! Girls! Girls!” and “Viva Las Vegas.”
In 1967, Priscilla and I got hitched and a year later, our little girl, Lisa Marie, was born. She became the light of my life. During these years, my focus shifted more towards my family, and I somewhat distanced myself from touring.
The ’70s: The Comeback and Vegas
The late ’60s and early ’70s were my comeback years. I returned to live performances, starting with an NBC TV special known as the “’68 Comeback Special.” It felt great to be back on stage, performing to a live audience.
Soon after, I started doing concerts in Las Vegas. My jumpsuits, capes, and belts became a signature part of my stage presence. I had hit a sweet spot in my career – enjoying what I did best and being able to spend time with my family.
The End of My Journey
Unfortunately, the pressure and fame got to me. My health started to deteriorate due to my lifestyle and diet, and I relied heavily on prescription drugs. Priscilla and I divorced in 1973, which hit me hard.
I passed away on August 16, 1977, at my beloved Graceland, too soon at the age of 42. I left behind my music, a legacy that I hope has continued to inspire and entertain.
Closing Notes
Looking back, my life was an incredible journey. From a poor boy in Mississippi to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, it’s been a rollercoaster. I hope my music continues to inspire and entertain. As I used to say, “Rock and roll music, if you like it, if you feel it, you can’t help but move to it.”
Through my trials and tribulations, I hope people remember not just the King, but also Elvis – the man who loved his music, his family, and his fans. It’s been one hell of a ride, and thank you for being a part of it.
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