Elvis Presley, known as 'The King of Rock and Roll,' revolutionized popular music by fusing country, rhythm and blues, and gospel into a distinctive sound that defined the rock and roll era. His charismatic stage presence, controversial performance style, and unprecedented commercial success transformed youth culture, racial boundaries in music, and the global music industry. With over 1 billion records sold worldwide, more than 600 recorded songs, and 18 number-one singles, Presley became one of the most significant cultural icons of the 20th century.
With a career spanning 1954 to 1977, Presley released over 600 songs across 24 studio albums, 11 live albums, and numerous soundtracks. His catalog includes 149 Hot 100 chart entries, with 114 reaching the Top 40, 40 in the Top 10, and 18 number-one hits. He remains the best-selling solo music artist of all time with estimated record sales exceeding 1 billion units worldwide.
How Elvis Presley sits in the influence chain