The Story of Elvis Presley in Country Music

When you think of Elvis Presley, many things come to mind: Graceland, shows in Las Vegas, his dance moves, or the many films he starred in. What many might forget about the legendary singer was that he influenced country music as well as any other genre he stepped into. Here is the King of Rock 'N Roll's comprehensive country music origin story.

Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley circa 1950s

To understand Presley, one needs to look at where he came from. Born in Mississippi and brought up in Memphis, it was only natural he was surrounded diverse music. Memphis during the 1940s was a melting pot of Rhythm & Blues and country styles. Young Presley began singing at an early age and even entered into a contest at the Mississippi - Alabama Fair and Dairy Show. He sang a cover of country artist Red Foley's "Old Shep."

By 1953 Presley was starting to record material at Sun Records. Sun Records was the hub of both blues and country artists. The likes of San Phillips an Johnny Cash would soon be recording there as well. Presley had a desire to blend gospel, blues, and country to make what would become Rock 'N Roll. His willingness and desire to pave a new genre is rooted in what he learned from the southern styles he loved.

In 1954 and 1955, Presley was featured as part of the Louisiana Hayride. The Hayride was a popular radio show and later on television show from Shreveport, Louisiana. It was during this time some of his recordings were earning praise across radio stations. The Grand Ole Opry invited him to perform where he sang "Blue Moon of Kentucky." Presley earned his very first No. 1 with "I Forgot To Remember To Forget," on the country charts. During the mid-50s country greats like Cash, Carl Smith and Jerry Lee Lewis were often put on the same stages and tours as Presley.

Since Rock was in its infancy, much of his early music was branded as country; however, many within the industry thought Presley was giving country a bad name. As his career took off following his debut album in 1956, Presley embarked on his R&B and rock path. Presley would go on to release songs that aimed towards the country lane. He did a cover of Hank Williams Sr.'s "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry" in 1973 and tracks like "She Thinks I Still Care" (1973) and "Kentucky Rain" (1970) proved he still remained inspired by the genre.

Presley was inducted into the Country Music Hall Of Fame in 1998 for his impact on country music, and his ability to breathe new life into the storied genre.

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