On Saturday, Jan. 8, Elvis Presley, the late musician who impacted music all over the world in the 1950s-1970s through his rock-n-roll style, would have turned 87-years-old.

Elvis Presley’s death shocked the world. In the days following Presley’s death, many media outlets interviewed fans and each person shared their grief and expressed admiration for the rockstar.

Presley was born on January 8, 1935, in Tupelo, Mississippi. At a young age, he learned to play guitar and fell under the influence of music.

Presley had a sensational music career, topping the charts with countless singles that, even after his death, continue to thrive among Presley’s fan base. 

Freshman Amilya Hill said, “I like Elvis because his voice sounds really soothing and just brightens up my day.”  Hill also said that Elvis definitely had a big influence on American music and that everyone enjoys listening to his songs. 

“Elvis had a strong influence on my music taste, after listening to him I started listening more to American and country music,” Hill said.

Presley was not only remembered for his music, but also for his television performances and movies. Some of Presley’s most famous roles include his portrayal of Lucky Jackson in Viva Las Vegas and Chad Gates in Blue Hawaii.

Senior Travion Fleming said, “I think Elvis is inspirational and charismatic.” 

Presley’s cultural influence is known all over the world, and his work helped popularize rock-n-roll music in America. 

“He was one of the biggest artists since the Beatles and I think he is one of the most inspirational, and he helped pave the way for artists now,” said Fleming.

Even in the 70s, Presley continued to make albums and inspire people around the world.

Presley’s music impacted generations of teens; he was an inspirational cultural singer and a sensational dancer and people today are remembering him by celebrating his 87th birthday.