Elvis Aaron Presley, often referred to as the "King of Rock and Roll," was born on January 8, 1935, in Tupelo, Mississippi, and passed away on August 16, 1977, in Memphis, Tennessee. He was an American singer, actor, and cultural icon who played a pivotal role in shaping the sound and style of rock music.
Presley's musical journey began in the mid-1950s when he emerged as a charismatic and dynamic performer, blending elements of rockabilly, rhythm and blues, country, and gospel music. His energetic stage presence, combined with his sultry voice and provocative hip movements, captivated audiences and helped propel him to unprecedented levels of fame.
In 1956, Presley released his self-titled debut album, which included the hits "Heartbreak Hotel" and "Blue Suede Shoes." He quickly became a sensation, with his distinctive style and sound resonating with teenagers and young adults across the United States and beyond. Presley's success continued with a string of chart-topping singles, including "Hound Dog," "Love Me Tender," and "Jailhouse Rock."
Aside from his musical achievements, Elvis Presley also had a prolific career in film, starring in over 30 movies, such as "Jailhouse Rock," "Blue Hawaii," and "Viva Las Vegas." Although his film roles sometimes overshadowed his musical output, Presley's impact as a performer remained significant.
Presley's later years were marked by personal challenges and health issues. However, his influence on popular music continued to be profound, and he remained a beloved and revered figure in the industry. Even after his untimely death, his music and legacy have endured, and he is widely regarded as one of the most significant cultural icons of the 20th century.
Elvis Presley's contributions to music were recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including three Grammy Awards and the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. He was inducted into multiple Halls of Fame, including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Elvis Presley's impact on popular culture, his iconic style, and his groundbreaking musical achievements have solidified his status as an enduring and influential figure in the history of music.
Lessons
Lesson 1: I Want You, I Need You, I Love You by Elvis Presley - Guitar Lesson
I Want You, I Need You, I Love You is a song written by Maurice Mysels and Ira Kosloff, and another big hit single in 1956 for artist Elvis Presley.
The arrangement is mainly in the key of C, but uses a lot of chords out of the key, and even changes keys in the bridge. It includes several barre chords. For that, a complete beginner is encouraged to try another Elvis-song first.
The strumming could be either done in cut time with swing feel or in 6/8 . The latter is probably a tad harder to execute, since the right hand moves much faster.Lesson 2: Little Sister - Acoustic Guitar Lesson
This classic Elvis hit is based around a 12 bar blues progression and incorporates some excellent blues licks. In this lesson you’ll get the inside scoop on the riffs that makes up the song, as well as how to play the chords. Not only will you learn these hot licks, but you’ll also get a good dose of tempo and meter change, which will significantly increase your sense of timing and rhythm.
Lesson 3: Suspicious Minds - Acoustic Guitar Lesson
This Elvis song is a perfect example of how good songwriting can take simple chords and embellish them using relatively easy techniques. In this lesson you’ll learn the fingerpicking patterns and how to turn a standard chord into something much more creative and interesting by varying the fingering patterns and rhythms. If you’re looking for a fun song to help you improve in multiple areas of guitar playing, than look no further.
Lesson 4: Blue Suede Shoes - Acoustic Guitar Lesson
One of the most famous Elvis songs, this tune is one that will have you shaking and grooving with the catchy blues riffs, while your fingers get a workout on the dual solos. In this lesson you’ll get access to all the licks, riffs and guitar tricks of this classic rockabilly hit!
Lesson 5: One Night
'One Night', originally recorded by Smiley Lewis, is another cool song by singer Elvis Presley. It was released in 1958 as a double A-side with 'I Got Stung'.
The song is in the key of E and is relatively easy and much fun to play.
This lesson breaks down the chords, the strumming with swing feel, and the little bass riffs which Presley throws in there all over the song.
This should be in every Elvis fan’s repertoire!