Viva le King

This week marks the 30th anniversary of Elvis’s death. Do you remember where you were when Elvis died?

My family was on a major summer vacation, touring the western US in a (borrowed) RV. We were sightseeing in Salt Lake City when news of Elvis’ death broke. “Did you hear, the King is dead?” was a common refrain passed between tourists visiting Temple Square that day. I remember my father trying to explain what a huge deal this was, especially to people who had come of age in the 50s.

While I’ve never been a huge Elvis fan, I can easily acknowledge his place in the history of rock. And, I’m endlessly fascinated by Elvis impersonators, especially those in this feature.

Is anyone surprised to learn that Elvis is the second-highest grossing dead star? Kurt Cobain is #1. Cuing up my favorite Elvis number, “A Little Less Conversation.” Here’s the original version in a video clip from Live a Little, Love a Little..