Elvis Presley is a legendary artist. There’s no doubt about that. Because of his almost unfathomable level of fame, he is known as the “King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.” This is a title that most people would argue Elvis definitely deserves. But, there are some who disagree. And surprisingly, one of those who opposed the title is Elvis himself. The iconic performer thought another deserved the title of “The King.”
How Elvis became known as the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll
Citing the book “100 Things Elvis Fans Should Know & Do Before They Die,” the article states that Elvis was first given the title of “king” on May 4, 1956. Robert Johnson, a writer for the Press-Scimitar, reportedly referred to Elvis as “the fledgling king of rock ‘n’ roll.” The nickname became popular and is still used in reference to Elvis to this day.
For an example of how Elvis Presley felt about being called “The King” we have to jump forward in time to 1974. According to Country Rebel, while performing in a concert that year, Elvis noticed a fan holding up a sign. After bringing the woman into the light for a better view, he noticed it said “The King.”
Public Perception vs. Private Reflection
Elvis Presley's public persona as "The King" was carefully curated by his management team, who recognized the power of branding in the entertainment industry. However, behind the scenes, Elvis was known for his humility and genuine nature. Friends and family recount moments where Elvis expressed discomfort with the grandiosity of the title, feeling that it placed immense expectations on his shoulders.
In interviews, Elvis often downplayed the significance of the title, emphasizing that he was just a performer who loved making music. He acknowledged the role of his fans and the industry in bestowing the title upon him but maintained a down-to-earth perspective that separated the man from the myth.
Elvis's Relationship with Fame
As Elvis's fame soared to unprecedented heights, he grappled with the pressures and demands that came with being a global sensation. The title "The King" became both a source of pride and a burden for Elvis. On one hand, it symbolized his immense success and influence; on the other, it heightened the scrutiny and expectations surrounding his every move.
Elvis's retreat from live performances in the 1960s, culminating in his legendary 1968 Comeback Special, reflected his desire to reconnect with his roots and reaffirm his passion for music. The intimate setting of the special allowed audiences to witness Elvis in a more authentic light, underscoring his genuine love for performing and, by extension, his discomfort with the regal implications of "The King" title.
Elvis Presley Said Jesus Is “The King”
Once he was able to read the sign, Elvis reportedly told the woman that the “King” is Jesus Christ. “Oh, thank you darlin’, thank you very much,” he said. “The thought is beautiful dear, and I love you for it … I can’t accept this kingship thing because to me, there’s only one, which is Christ.”
Having grown up in the Christian faith, Elvis Presley’s reaction to the woman’s sign isn’t all that surprising. According to a report by USA Today, Elvis worshipped at the East Tupelo First Assembly of God. When the singer made his home in Memphis, Tennessee, he worshipped at the Church of Jesus Christ. He was reportedly baptized there by a preacher named Rex Dyson. Dyson has been quoted as saying, “I baptized Elvis in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.”
Elvis Enjoyed Singing Gospel Music
As a Christian, part of worshipping Jesus Christ for Elvis Presley was music. According to an article by Christian Today the singer is quoted as having said that “gospel music is the purest thing there is on earth.” Elvis even recorded a version of the popular Christian hymn, “How Great Thou Art.”
Elvis was also known to sing gospel music while staying in hotels. CBN News cites Joe Moscheo, who was a member of the group The Imperials, as a reference for some of these impromptu gospel singing sessions hosted by Elvis.
“… It was like there were two parts, there was Elvis the superstar and he went out on stage in his jumpsuits and then he came offstage and he was Elvis Presley from Tupelo, Mississippi, that was brought up in the church and wanted to sing gospel music,” Moscheo reportedly said.