Nikki MarrowMrs. LevyEnglish I (Honours)23 March 2014Elvis PresleyThe Man in JumpsuitHe shook the world with his voice and his soul. It was Elvis Presley. On August 16, 1977, the world was saddened by the passing of one of the most famous and beloved singers. However he left a big impact. Presley's music and almost everything about him can still be found everywhere today. “I never expected to become someone important.” These were the words of the man who became the second best-selling artist of all time. Through music, a little dance, and pop culture, Elvis Presley proves himself to be the most influential person in American history. It wasn't easy to get to where he was. Born and raised in Mississippi, Presley did not live in luxury. His wealth and fame were a huge step up from his struggling life in Mississippi (Stones). This has influenced others to pursue their dreams as well. Since he grew up this way and grew up as a generous and kind person, he always gave to those in need, which raised a role model in him (Bergmooser). At just ten years old, Presley finally made his first public performance. He sang "Old Shep" for a competition and received fifth place (Stones). Later in his life, he made his first record working with Sun Records in 1953 (Stones). This eventually led to exposure in the music industry. More and more people listened to and purchased his albums as the years went by. Adding up, Elvis Presley has sold more than one billion records worldwide (RIAA). Throughout his career he has performed many times and in countless different venues. In 1972, he sold out four shows at Madison Square Garden (McShane). This is the place many artists only dream of reaching. Step by step, Presley grew his fame and aspired for others to fight the same way. Heartless... middle of paper... message of hope in the songs of a man so many young Americans admire: the Elvis Presley of Mississippi." This is what the current president at the time, Ronald Reagan, had mentioned Presley (Bergmooser).Presley's fame and influence had skyrocketed so much so that even the president had something to say about it. Not only regular fans but also many bands and people were influenced by his music, his dance and from his fashion billions of records and received numerous awards and achievements. His music is still heard everywhere today. No one can compare to what he accomplished to Elvis' title as the most influential person in American history. (Bergmooser) As Buddy Holly once said, "None of us would have. could have done it without Elvis."