The first woman
Elvis Presley just like most of us looks up to the first woman in our lives, and more often than not that woman is no less than our own mother. In fact, Elvis himself admitted that his closeness with his mom was highly incomparable for he considered her the no. 1 woman in the world.

The close relationship of Elvis, an only child, and his mom lead to his mom's deterioration after he left home. As a mom she would perhaps be the first person in the world who would want Elvis to succeed in his chosen career, and she never interfered. However, for her, along with his accomplishments came the unwelcome realization that he would be apart from her.

Some think due to her despondency, she started to wallow into alcohol and eventually begun to gain weight at a fast rate. She degenerated to a degree which lead to her death, which, according to many reporters left Elvis crying dementedly.

The girls he has loved before
Elvis was branded as a womanizer by many critics, due to his 'inclination' to date several different women a night. A list of all the women that he had a 'special moment' with might end up being several volumes of books. Among them were Judy Spreckels and June Juanico who were known as his early girlfriends.

It was of course inevitable in his case to have relationship rumors with his co-stars in some of his movies and some women from the industry, such as Julie Parrish, June Wilkinson, Peggy Lipton, Cassandra Peterson, Ann-Margaret, and Lori Williams. The reason behind their 'dates' are quite vague up to now, but some people say that Elvis had a habit of dating women for publicity purposes only.

Men in his life
Incidentally, Elvis also had lots of male friends in the industry. As a matter of fact he was known for having late night chitchats with employees and several friends which led them to be called the Memphis Mafia,. This group was composed of Marty Lacker , Red West, Billy Smith, Lamar Fike and Sonny West.

Being Elvis Presley was truly more exciting than you may have thought it was, especially upon learning that he lived amidst such a big social circle.

Music

1. He is one of the very few artists who was inducted to the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
2. In 1977, Elvis was considered to be the number one touring act in the U.S.
3. Heartbreak Hotel was the no.1 country song in 1956.
4. Hound Dog was recorded 33 times. He once performed with a Bassett Hound, but it wasn't too fun since the dog was in heat and grouchy.
5. Selling 30 million copies, It's Now or Never, Elvis's single recorded in 1960, was the best-selling song of all time.
6. Concerts during June 19-21, 1977, were videotaped by CBS for the Elvis in Concert special. It displayed the stars worsening condition. It was only shown on October 3, after his death.
7. Elvis's singing career was viewed as a means to survive; his ultimate dream was to be an actor.

Personal References

1. Rumors have it that Elvis was forced by Priscilla's father to marry her, or else, he would reveal that she was a minor when they both started an affair. Elvis was then 24.
2. President Jimmy Carter is Elvis's distant cousin. Isaiah Harrison, great-great grandfather of Abraham Lincoln, was his direct descendant too.
3. Elvis was a notorious woman lover, dating his co-stars before he married Priscilla.
4. He used to work odd jobs before he began singing. He worked as an usher and a truck driver.
5. Elvis was sick with chronic asthma and was prescribed very addictive sleeping pills which a lot believe caused his tragic death.
6. Elvis loved football and racquetball. He usually had three televisions running at Graceland to watch football games.
7. Elvis was once in the audience of Connie Francis. He left abruptly when she sang Mama an Italian song, which reminded him of his mother who had recently died.

After His Death

1. Elvis was known to be very generous, and his fans continued this tradition. One of them, Elvis Matters, invited a 17-year-old paralyzed girl named Michael Stroobans to their annual pilgrimage to Graceland with expenses all paid by the club.
2. Elvis's body was almost stolen in August 29, 1977. However, the plan failed. The adjustment board of Memphis granted Vernon the permission to move Elvis's and his mothers body behind Graceland, in the Meditation Garden.
3. Elvis graced a Swedish postage stamp in 2004.
4. A number of TV shows and films showcased Elvis's life, including Elvis, a telefilm. He was portrayed by Kurt Russell.

Early Life

Elvis Presley was born in Tupelo, Mississippi, to Vernon Presley and Gladys Love Smith. He was of Scottish, French, Jewish, and German descent. He had an identical twin named Jesse Garon who was stillborn.

His first public performance was when he was ten, in a singing competition of a dairy show. The young Elvis, so short, reached for the microphone using a chair and sang Old Shep by Red Foley. He was the second runner-up.

Celebrity Career

It was in 1954 that he started singing for the well-known Sun Records in Memphis. The following year, he found himself at RCA Victor, when his contract was sold. In 1956, he was already a very big star. Because of his distinct voice and style that perfectly combined different kinds of musical influences that transcended racial barriers, he introduced a new type of American pop culture and music.

Along with his music, he also started acting, appearing in 33 box-office films. He also made history with his television specials and appearances. He held great acclaim for his record-breaking concerts in Las Vegas and other tours.

His records have sold billions all over the world and garnered him gold multi-platinum recognitions that 149 singles and albums. He was nominated in the Grammy's 14 times and was named TOYM of the Nation in 1970.

Military Service

Elvis became part of the 1st Battalion, 2nd Armor when he was drafted into the military on December 20, 1957. He was assigned to Friedberg, Germany. He requested for no special treatment and was respected for not participating in Special Services, where he could avoid specific duties. It was in Germany, however, that he was introduced to amphetamines by friends. Because almost all were into it, he himself began taking them.

He went back in March 2, 1960, to the United States and was given a sergeant ranking. He then continued his recording sessions after almost three years of hiatus.

Death of Presley

During the 1970s, Presley began to decline. He was often criticized for veering away from rock and pop music. Added to that were the marital problems with his wife, Priscilla, and his womanizing ways. He also started to gain weight and drugs slowly started taking control of his health. His last performance should have been in Market Square Arena in Indianapolis. A day before, however, he was found dead in the bathroom by his fiance, Ginger Alden.

Elvis bought a 16-acre ranch in Tennessee called Graceland. He had been interested in riding horses after he bought a horse for Priscilla. This hobby was Elvis's therapy whenever he was unhappy or frustrated about the state of his career.

May 1, 1967 was their wedding day. The venue was Aladdin Hotel, located in Las Vegas. It was a secret wedding. It only cost Elvis $15 to get the marriage license. Elvis was clad in all black while Priscilla donned white chiffon with a satin train measuring six feet. Her ring included a three carat diamond plus twenty small ones.

The reception had a five-tiered cake and served breakfast for a hundred guests and a string trio. The newlyweds indulged their fans by granting a press conference. Afterwards, they left for Palm Springs where they spent four days in Honeymoon bliss.

After they returned to Memphis, Elvis and Priscilla wore their wedding clothes again for a second wedding that was held in the trophy room of Graceland in order to grant the wishes of family and friends who were not present for their Las Vegas wedding.

Their daughter Lisa Marie was born in February 1, 1968. Outside, the King seemed to have it all. A booming singing career and a couple of movies, a beautiful wife, a charming daughter, a grand estate. He couldn't ask for anything more. However, what the public and his adoring fans didn't know was that there were problems in the marriage.

Priscilla was unhappy for some time. She didn't like the Memphis Mafia and the fact that Elvis constantly traveled. She also believed that her husband spoiled their daughter too much by letting her stay up really late, eat whatever she wanted and getting everything she desired. She asked for a divorce. They formally divorced in 1973.

Their divorce was granted and they agreed to be close friends. Priscilla had custody of Lisa Marie. Elvis didn't have formal schedule of visitation rights. The court allowed him to spend time with his daughter as much as he wanted. He did this regularly.

It has been said that the divorce led to Elvis's untimely death. His finances were depleted and he wasn't taking care of himself as well.

What the King had to say?
The King reigned in the industry for so long that people considered him an idol, through his deeds, words and his actions. His beliefs are embodied in the quotations he left the world to cherish.

Indeed, his life might be what everyone has dreamed of and are reflected in these quotes "I get lonesome right in the middle of a crowd." His career he consider as a blessing when he said "I believe in the Bible. I believe that all good things come from God. I don't believe I'd sing the way I do if God hadn't wanted me to." In terms of his happiness, he once said "I believe the key to happiness is: someone to love, something to do, and something to look forward to."

His personal life is something that he was almost deprived of due to his extreme popularity all over the globe, yet he had moments when he was able to reflect and think and say that "I ain't no saint, but I've tried never to do anything that would hurt my family or offend God. I figure all any kid needs is hope and the feeling that he or she belongs. If I could do or say anything that would give some kid that feeling, I would believe I had contributed something to the world."

On to music
His life largely revolved around his music and dancing in particular, which leads to the need to perform most of the time. He's also a normal person, at times facing stage fright but what he had to say about it really made things appear easier than what we imagine.

"I've never gotten over what they call stage--fright. I go through it every show. I'm pretty concerned, I'm pretty much thinking about the show. I never get completely comfortable with it, and I don't let the people around me get comfortable with it, in that I remind them that it's a new crowd out there, it's a new audience, and they haven't seen us before. So it's got to be like the first time we go on."

Graceland
When it comes to famous Elvis properties, Graceland is the most known worldwide. It is located in Whitehaven in Memphis on Highway 51 along South Bellevue Boulevard, which has since been renamed Elvis Presley Boulevard. Bought by Elvis in 1957, Graceland is nearly 14 acres in area and currently belongs to Lisa Marie, his only daughter.

The Graceland estate was named after Grace Toof, the daughter of former owner S.E. Toof, who was the publisher of the Memphis Daily Appeal. The original Graceland mansion was built in 1939. When Elvis bought the property, it cost him just a little more than $102,000. He made renovations on the original mansion and it grew from just over 10,000 sq. feet to more than 17,500 sq. feet. Elvis, with his parents, lived in Graceland from 1957 until their deaths.

Today, Graceland is a famous landmark, housing many of Elvis' and the Presley's' properties. It is a museum and a showcase of Elvis' numerous awards, car collections and memorabilia. It is also here where the Meditation Garden can be found, the final resting place of Elvis and his parents. Graceland is the site of hundreds of thousands of visits and guided tours each year.

Circle G Ranch
The eternal flame once burned here. Elvis bought the Circle G Ranch when he needed more room for his horses. The pasture in his other property in Graceland was just not enough. Circle G Ranch is 163 acres of land he obtained in 1967 and is just a few minutes away from Graceland. Although it was originally intended to be a place where he could keep horses, Circle G became Elvis' hideaway. Along with his Memphis Mafia buddies, he would spend weeks at a time here, having laid-back fun with his family and friends.

The Circle G is where you'll find the Honeymoon Cottage (Elvis and Priscilla supposedly stayed there after their wedding) and the barbecue pit that Elvis' friends built for him. Elvis sold the ranch in 1970 and an 'eternal flame' was burned there in honor of its famous former owner. The ranch doesn't receive as many visitors as Graceland, which is why the eternal flame was eventually extinguished. With a few more visits from adoring fans, there's no reason why the flame shouldn't burn again.

Elvis vacations in Memphis, Tennessee
There are two things you'll love about Memphis, Tennessee and they are both larger than life. One is Dolly Parton and the other is Elvis Presley. Although he was born in Tupelo, Mississippi, Elvis and his parents moved to Tennessee when he was young. This is where he began his career as a singer.

There are several exclusive vacations such as Memphis Memories from Country Music Travel that are offered to Elvis fans who want to see Elvis' hometown. Memphis is just 200 miles from Nashville and there are several museums and special sites that will make any Elvis vacation memorable. Memphis is where you'll find Sun Studio where Elvis recorded some of his first songs and of course, his home at Graceland.

Another escorted tour is the Elvis and Southern Sounds Tour and the Tennessee Regional Music Tour. Elvis and Southern Sounds is a complete tour of the musical roots that began in certain parts of Tennessee while the regional music tour is a vacation that includes tours of Tupelo, Memphis and Nashville.

Touring Graceland
Graceland is the home of the Presley's and is well known as the most famous singing star's home in America. The 14-acre estate is also the place for one of the best Elvis vacations around. Some of these vacation tours include the Graceland Memphis Vacation and the Graceland Platinum Experience. Both vacation packages offer guided tours of the mansion along with its many attractions and a tour of Sun Studio, accommodations included.

Guided tours will take guests inside Elvis' beloved house. The tour guide will not take you upstairs to see the 'inner sanctum' but it will give you a good glimpse at the life Elvis led. The mansion houses two museums dedicated to Elvis' memory. Graceland is also the home of Elvis' numerous awards and his custom-built airplanes. In the Elvis 56 area of the Sincerely Elvis Museum, you'll also find exclusive photographs, movie footage and even archival documents that you won't find anywhere else.

If you want a taste of Elvis' life as a night owl, try one of those Elvis vacations that include a glimpse of this not-so-famous side of his personality. Elvis After Dark, for example, is an exhibit area found in the Graceland Crossing shopping center. It also includes the pool table used by Elvis and the Beatles. This pool table is available for use by the public for a fee.

From the ordinary

He was also similar to other high school guys during his age, only a bit different when he started displaying his own style when it came to fashion. This was the time that he began smoothing his hair and he began allowing his sideburns to grow which also contributed to his character. During this time he gained a distinction in a particular high school competition when he played an encore.

After he finished high school he started a job at a mechanics shop, this is the moment when his singing career started to flourish, particularly when he made a song for his mom's birthday. During that time he made his first recording at the Memphis Recording Service when recorded his first songs, That's "When Your Heartaches Begin" and "My Happiness".

The owner of the recording studio himself asked Elvis to make demos as he was paired up with other local artists. While he was working at Crown Electric, Elvis started to make contracts with recording services; it was during this time that he released some of his songs like Heartbreak Hotel, I Want You, I love You, I Want You, I Need You, I love You, and Love Me Tender.

Elvis was known for creating top chart hits, All Shook Up, I beg of You, One Night, Need Your Love Tonight, Jailhouse Rock, Teddy Bear, A Big Hunk Of Love, I Feel So Bad, Little Sister, She's Not You, Crying In The Chapel, In the Ghetto and Burning Love.

After being a much sought after icon in the public, Elvis Presley's career never waned through the years. As a matter of fact it boosted the public's need to find another Elvis in modern times who might just sound like him.

There is still a generation of fans out there still looking up to Elvis Presley, though the teenagers nowadays may not have the slightest idea of what he has done for the music industry. But for the avid fans, he may be dead but his impact and genre will forever be remembered.

Elvis Presley's Greatest Hits

Elvis Presley is a legendary star. He made a big contribution to the music industry. The fame of Elvis Presley in rock and roll and other genres wouldn't have been possible if not for the great songs performed by the artist. People from different generations are very much familiar with his songs and performances. Thus, it is worth noting at this point some of the songs that made him the star we know today.

Heartbreak Hotel

The song Heartbreak Hotel gave Elvis Presley a big break. He recorded the song with a gospel quartet the Jordanaires. They released the song and it became number one right away on the Billboard pop charts. It was able to stay on top for two months. The same song also made it to the R&B and Country Music charts. This success led to the fame of Elvis Presley.

Hound Dog

The song Hound Dog is another one of the Elvis Presley greatest hits that became very popular even before it was formally recorded. Elvis Presley first performed the song when he made appearances of different shows. This initially became controversial because of the gyrating moves during his performance. Later on, the song paved the way to show how much of an artist Elvis Presley could be.

Other Elvis Presley Greatest Hits

The songs above show the rich circumstances that surrounded Elvis Presley as he made his way to stardom. His other hits were also part of the changes in his life. Love Me Tender, Jailhouse Rock, Let Me Be Your Teddy Bear, All Shook Up and Loving You factored in at the time that he ventured into making movies. His song In the Ghetto would show that he was also in touch with the needs of society.

Conclusion

The greatest hits of Elvis Presley showcase the talent of the man, no matter what the circumstances may be. It is worthy to know these hit songs, in order to know the history and the ideals that Elvis Presley had at the time he was on the top of the music industry.

The goods - the merchandise
Elvis Presley is one of the phenomenal artists who took the center stage. Other than selling millions of his records to various countries; his popularity also hit the market when merchandise with his photo was put up for sale. In this kind of scenario, you may have noticed how other people took advantage of his fame.

He could be seen on a wide array of clothing as well as different accessories which include eyeglasses, tote bags and wallets, and novelties like umbrellas and playing cards.

You may also find his face imprinted on decorations for a certain season like Christmas on stockings, and fabric panels. Of course he is also present in those cutesy greeting cards, postcards and other things which you can hand out.

Products for your home
He has invaded homes with all his merchandise, like shower curtains, kitchen needs like pot holders, mugs and shot glasses; and bedroom requisites such as slippers, night lamps, clocks and other ceramics. For those who want to keep Elvis Presley always with them, they prefer to purchase things which they can take with them anywhere they go and this includes jewelry, t-shirts, mirrors, hats and even lunch boxes.

Latest items
The mania for the king of rock 'n' roll evidently never stopped, because you can still find items which aims to cater to his avid fans. You can now purchase mouse pads, a dancing shot glass set, alarm clocks and Elvis teddy bears wearing the costume of a GI. You can also add to the list lanyards, towels, key chains and the latest styles of t-shirts.

These items are up for grabs anywhere, but they are more likely to be found on personal fan websites where you can choose from so many other items for your buying purposes.