Elvis Presley remains one of the most celebrated musicians in history. His legacy stayed alive since his demise; however, the star had doubts about himself before he died.
Elvis Presley, popularly known as "The King of Rock 'N' Roll," had millions of fans adoring him even after his passing at a young age. Born on January 8, 1935, the legend began his musical journey at a young age.
At 19, Presley recorded his first few songs for four dollars, at a Memphis recording studio, as a gift for his mother. The singer's life took a positive turn when the studio owner, Sam Phillips, took an interest in the quality of Presley's voice.
A picture of singer Elvis Presley | Photo: Getty Images
Not long after, Presley was invited to rehearse with some local musicians. The singer eventually gave a rendition of rhythm and blues' "That's All Right," which Phillips released as a single on his Sun Records Label.
A year later, Presley's musical talent attracted more followers, and in 1956, he became a household name after his first record with Radio Corporation of America was released. Presley made more music afterward and gained more recognition.
Elvis Presley performing on the Elvis comeback TV special on June 27, 1968, in California | Photo: Getty Images.
Despite achieving commendable success, Presley was distraught about his legacy after his demise. The soul singer worried that he would be forgotten easily after his death, and in May 1977, he let out his emotions to soprano singer Kathy Westmoreland.
Presley saw himself as a total failure, who had never done anything lasting, and never became a real movie star. In addition to his worries, the legend battled with addiction and internal problems.
Immediately, he was rushed to the Baptist Memorial Hospital, where he was confirmed dead.
Presley could already see his end and jokingly pleaded with Westmoreland to wear a white outfit for his funeral. On August 16, 1977, the world lost a great musician when Presley passed away.
He died aged 42 in his Memphis mansion in Graceland. Presley was found unconscious on the floor of the master suite bathroom by his girlfriend, Ginger Alden. Immediately, he was rushed to the Baptist Memorial Hospital, where he was confirmed dead.
Reports had it that Presley died from a heart failure caused by the singer's longtime and serious drug addiction. Toxicology reports revealed that Presley's blood contained high doses of Codeine, Percodan, and other medications.
After his death, many believed the hospital reports; however, the author of "Elvis: Destined To Die Young," Sally Hoedel, thought otherwise. She felt that Presley's death was more generic than addiction-related.
Presley's mother died of heart-related issues, and three of the singer's uncles died from heart, kidney, and liver-related problems. Hoedel said he died of diseases in nine out of eleven organ systems in the body.
The singer was buried on Graceland's grounds, and to date, many celebrate his legacy. His grave has been turned into a successful tourist attraction, drawing fans from far and wide.
ncG1vNJzZmimlazAb63MqKSapZFjsLC5jmtucXBkaHq1tM6unqGso2K1qr%2BMpZygmZOuerW%2Bzq6ZpZ2UYrmwusSlsGajmaO0b7TTpqM%3D