Thirty years ago today, Elvis Presley --King of Rock ‘n Roll -- died in Memphis, at his home, Graceland, a drugged and bloated mess. The end wasn't pretty. Too many drugs and peanut butter sandwiches – and heart failure.
But in all his chapters – Elvis the Shocker, Elvis the Beautiful, Elvis the Sweaty Lounge Act – Elvis Presley was a larger-than-life remix of American culture. Fifty years ago - young and wild - the gyrating electric Elvis was at the top of his game, astonishing the country.
His was a career that crossed racial lines, launched rock and roll, thrilled fans, broke hearts and defined 20th century celebrity in America. “Before Elvis,” said John Lennon, “there was nothing.” Well, not exactly.
What about after his death? Today in Memphis, his fans will bow down again at Graceland. But in the house of American culture, is Elvis still in the building?
Listen to an On Point discussion about Elvis, 30 years after his death and 50 years after his peak.
What’s your take on Elvis? Is he on your wall? In your heart? In your rearview mirror? Is he gone?
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