A vibrant gathering of music lovers from across the globe converged on the front lawn of Graceland on Wednesday to celebrate what would have been Elvis Presley’s 90th birthday. Despite the chilly temperatures, nearly 3,000 attendees joined the festivities, which are part of the annual celebrations that began earlier in the week.
Hosted by Elvis Radio DJ Argo, the ceremony included a reading of official proclamations from the city and county as well as a ceremonial cake cutting accompanied by a sing-along of “Happy Birthday.” Argo humorously referenced the weather conditions on Elvis’s birth date, while speakers such as Jack Soden, CEO of Elvis Presley Enterprises, and Memphis Tourism head Kevin Kane, celebrated the enduring legacy of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Kane emphasized the unique ability of Elvis to draw such large crowds even at age 90.
Joel Weinshanker, managing partner of Elvis Presley Enterprises, expressed gratitude to the international fans, particularly noting a strong presence from the UK, where he is currently preparing a new immersive Elvis show set to debut in May. Looking ahead, Weinshanker shared that preparations are underway for the 50th anniversary of Elvis’s passing in 2027, promising exciting projects including new movies and documentaries, utilizing modern technology to present Elvis’s story in fresh ways.
Additionally, Memphis Mayor Paul Young and Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris affirmed Elvis’s lasting impact on the city, highlighting the heart and soul he represents. The event culminated with the crowd singing “Happy Birthday” before fans were treated to cake and coffee at Vernon’s Smokehouse and the grand opening of the “90 for 90” exhibit at Elvis Presley’s Memphis complex. This special exhibit features chosen artifacts from the extensive Presley archives, shining a light on pivotal moments in Elvis’s career and personal life.
In conclusion, the celebrations not only honored Elvis Presley’s rich legacy but also indicated a promising future for his story, with events planned to keep his spirit alive and engaging for new generations. The continued dedication from Elvis Presley Enterprises and the passionate community of fans assures that the King’s music and impact will resonate for decades to come.