“Elvis Presley defined American culture to billions of adoring fans around the world. Elvis fused gospel, country, and rhythm and blues to create a sound all his own, selling more than a billion records,” The White House said of the honor.
“Elvis also served nearly 2 years in the United States Army, humbly accepting the call to serve despite his fame. He later starred in 31 films, drew record-breaking audiences to his shows, sent television ratings soaring, and earned 14 Grammy Award nominations. He ultimately won 3 Grammy Awards for his gospel music. Elvis Presley remains an enduring American icon four decades after his death.”
While its common for musicians to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom – honorees during the Obama administration included Bob Dylan, Stevie Wonder, Gloria Estefan, Diana Ross, Loretta Lynn and Bruce Springsteen – Presley is only the third musician to receive the honor posthumously, following bandleader Meredith Willson and jazz great Count Basie during the Reagan administration.
Sold!
A 14K gold TCB necklace that Elvis once donated to his bodyguard Sonny West was offered for sale at Julien's 'Icons and Idols: Rock'n'Roll' auction in New York yesterday. In addition to this necklace, there were jewelry and clothing from Elvis, and a whole series of personal items from Elvis' doctor Nick Nichopoulos.
The final buyer will also receive a handwritten letter (on the stationary from Taking Care of Business) from Sonny West, stating that the necklace was donated to him by a 1970 jeweler in Beverly Hills. The value of this necklace is estimated at 30000-50000 dollar. The highest bidder with $ 38,400 may call itself the new owner. For a lot of lots around Dr. Nick was little to no interest and did not change ownership.
(Source: Rolling Stone / Elvis Matters)