On This Day in 1977: The World Mourned the Loss of Elvis Presley

Today marks the 47th anniversary of the death of Elvis Presley. Known as “The King,” fans of both music and pop culture remember Presley for not only being one of the most influential musicians but also one of the most influential Americans. He was America’s sweetheart, superstar, and a cultural giant who left an insurmountable mark on cultures across the world. His legend is daunting and untouchable, troubled and prosperous, and nearly fictitious due to its grandeur.

His death was an American tragedy and one that would leave fans mourning the loss of Presley for generations. If it wasn’t for his life and career, popular music would not have been a tool for idealistic liberation, and rock ‘n’ roll would have never been the same. Elvis Presley is the most successful American musician of all time. Today is a day of remembrance and homage for the greatness he left behind.

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Leaving With Grace from Graceland

Presley was only 42-years-old when he was found on the bathroom floor at his Graceland estate. Presley’s current girlfriend at the time, Ginger Alden wrote in her memoir Mirror, “His arms lay on the ground, close to his sides, palms facing upward.” Not only did Presley seem at peace, but this description instills more dignity in the moment of his death. It does so because it subverts the common rumor that Presley passed while sitting on the toilet. Per Alden’s memoir, fans and critics now know this not to be true.

Caused by a heart attack, Presley’s early death was brought on by his self-indulgent hard-living lifestyle. However, no one can blame the guy, as the fame and constant need to meet unreachable expectations would drive most people to this point. That being so, Presley’s passing marks one of the first deaths of a tortured rock ‘n’ roller, and sadly, he became a sacrificial lamb for musicians to come.

Presley Will Always Live On

“Elvis Presley’s death deprives our country of a part of itself…He burst upon the scene with an impact that was unprecedented and will probably never be equaled,” said former President Jimmy Carter in his official statement following Presley’s death. The words of Carter could not be more true. Presley did something that can never be replicated or replaced. Despite his faults, which everyone has, he is one of the greatest American figures to ever exist.

Elvis Presley may have died on Earth. Though, he will never die in the hearts and souls of fans and folks across the world. We have Elvis to thank for everything in pop culture.

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