This summer, Elvis fans are celebrating a very special event: the 50th anniversary of the King’s first recording. In July of 1954, Elvis waxed his debut tune, “That’s Alright,” a rockabilly gem that showcased his special blend of blues, country and swing. Although the song wasn’t a smash hit, it permanently altered the landscape of popular American music and set the singer on a course to superstardom. Just in time for this milestone in music history, Pamela Clarke Keogh, author of the best-selling biographies Audrey Style and Jackie Style, delivers Elvis Presley: The Man. The Life. The Legend. Offering fresh perspectives on the star, Clarke presents a thorough chronology of Elvis’ life, recounting his childhood in Tupelo, Mississippi, his musical evolution, starting with Sun Records in Memphis, his Hollywood career and marriage to Priscilla. Through a colorful, fast-moving examination of his ever-changing personal style, which spanned nearly three decades, Clarke explains the rock icon’s limitless appeal, giving readers a perceptive analysis of his position in popular culture. From “Hillbilly Cat,” to Hollywood hunk, to Vegas-style star, all of his incarnations are covered. The book also takes a special look at Graceland in all its gaudy splendor. Clarke interviewed Elvis insiders and family members for the book, including Priscilla Presley, Jerry Schilling and Larry Geller. She was also granted special access to the Graceland archives, from which she chose the volume’s visuals. Fans of Presley will welcome this special new account of the singer’s life and legacy, which features more than 100 color and black-and-white illustrations and photographs. Long live the King!
Valiant Women is a vital and engrossing attempt to correct the record and rightfully celebrate the achievements of female veterans of World War II.
