Happy Birthday, Elvis!

Today would’ve been Elvis Presley’s 73rd birthday. For many of us, it doesn’t feel like he died 31 years ago, and we can remember where we were or what we were doing when we heard about it, even those of us who were only nine years old. Elvis died at the young age of 42, however he did more than most people do in a lifetime. It is estimated – only in sales that were documented- that Elvis has sold over one billion records worldwide, more than anyone else in history.

As the King of Rock and Roll, his music inspired many musicians. Many people danced to, fell in love to, and continue to listen to his music today. Most people only know the songs we’ve heard on the radio or the ones that appear on the #1 complications, however his best aren’t as common. He recorded albums continuously, and they vary in genre from rockabilly, rock and roll, gospel, blues, and country.

Everyone has a opinion about Elvis Presley. Some people are harsh in judgment, while others put him on a godly level. Regardless, Elvis was a strong influence that people couldn’t ignore. Below, are some things influential people said about him.
And since it’s Elvis’ birthday, we’ll only focus on the positive.

There have been a lot of tough guys. There have been pretenders. And there have been contenders. But there is only one king. – Bruce Springsteen

His music and his personality, fusing the styles of white country and black rhythm and blues, permanently changed the face of American popular culture. His following was immense. And he was a symbol to people the world over of the vitality, rebelliousness and good humor of this country. – Jimmy Carter

He was a unique artist… an original in an area of imitators. – Mick Jagger

A lot of people have accused Elvis of stealing the black man’s music, when in fact almost every black solo entertainer copied Elvis’ stage mannerisms. – Jackie Wilson

Before Elvis, there was nothing. – John Lennon

Vote for your favorite Elvis song below!