Elvis
Elvis Presley's history in Las Vegas is a significant chapter in his legendary career, marking his transformation from a rock 'n' roll icon to a Las Vegas superstar.
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Elvis's first Las Vegas appearance was in 1956 at the New Frontier Hotel. At just 21 years old, he was still a rising star in the music world. This performance was not well-received by the older, conservative audience, which was more accustomed to traditional lounge acts.
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In 1964, Elvis starred in "Viva Las Vegas," one of his most famous films. The movie showcased Las Vegas's vibrant nightlife and featured the iconic duet with Ann-Margret, "The Lady Loves Me." The film further cemented Elvis's association with the city. This photo with Ann-Margret was taken on the set of that film.
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In July 1969, Elvis began his legendary residency at the International Hotel (later the Las Vegas Hilton, now the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino). This marked his first live concert in eight years and was a significant turning point in his career. Elvis performed two shows a night, seven days a week, for a month. The residency was a massive success, with every show selling out and receiving rave reviews. His performances were marked by high energy, charisma, and a blend of rock 'n' roll, pop, and soul music.
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Elvis continued to perform in Las Vegas throughout the early 1970s, returning for multiple engagements that further established his dominance in the entertainment capital.​​ But throughout the 1970s, Elvis struggled with health issues largely attributed to his use of prescription drugs. He was prescribed various medications for insomnia, pain, and other ailments, leading to dependency and addiction.
Despite his declining health, Elvis continued to tour extensively. His performances were marked by inconsistency; while he occasionally showed glimpses of his former brilliance, many shows were marred by his physical and mental exhaustion.
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On the morning of August 16, 1977, Elvis was found unconscious on the bathroom floor of his Graceland mansion by his fiancée, Ginger Alden. Efforts to revive him were unsuccessful. He was 42 years old. The official cause of death was listed as a heart attack, but it was later revealed that drug abuse had played a significant role. An autopsy found a combination of several drugs in his system, including codeine, Valium, morphine, and Demerol.
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Elvis Presley's history in Las Vegas is a testament to his enduring impact on music and popular culture. His transformative performances in the city helped revive his career and set a precedent for the modern entertainment residency. Elvis's legacy in Las Vegas remains an integral part of the city's rich entertainment history, symbolizing the fusion of rock 'n' roll with the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas.​
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