Elvis Presley first gained major popularity in the mid-1950s, with his breakthrough in 1956 when his single "Heartbreak Hotel" became a number-one hit in the US. During this period, especially from 1956 through 1958, he completely dominated the pop music charts, becoming the leading figure in the newly popular rock and roll genre and radically influencing popular culture, particularly among teens and youth at the time. His popularity waned somewhat in the late 1960s, but he made a strong comeback with the 1968 Comeback Special. After that, in the 1970s, he became an even bigger household name and arguably the most famous entertainer worldwide, known not only for his music but also as a live performer in sold-out shows in Vegas and on tour. While his 1970s music was less about topping charts and more about maintaining his image and performance legacy, he was widely recognized and popular across multiple generations by then. In summary:
- Initial peak and rise: Mid to late 1950s (1956-1958)
- Slight decline in late 1960s but remained popular as a movie star
- Comeback and peak entertainer status: Late 1960s and especially throughout the 1970s, where he solidified his legendary status and maintained widespread fame and popularity.
