HOUSTON – Nearly 65 years ago, Elvis Presley set foot in the Lone Star State. Before the King of Rock N’ Roll was swinging his hips and drawing large crowds of screaming fans, the musician was making a name for himself, performing at local radio stations, bars and clubs.
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In 1954, Elvis formed a trio with guitarist Scotty Moore and bassist Bill Black. The Blue Moon Boys began performing together, booking local gigs in the South. On Nov. 21 1954, Elvis made his Houston debut and performed at Magnolia Gardens. This was the stepping stone to future performances in Houston.
Elvis performing at Magnolia Gardens
On Nov. 25, 1954, Elvis and the band were booked at the Paladium. According to Scott, there was a minor typo in one of the ads, printing Elvis’s name as “Pressley.” That didn’t stop the crowds, Elvis was asked to perform for two additional nights. He even performed in the the city twice more before turning into a national star.
It’s believed the musician performed 13 times in Houston in 1955. Some of the venues included the Magnolia Garden, Cook’s Hoedown Club, Paladium and Eagles Hall.
As the years went by, his popularity blossomed. He was drafted in the U.S. Army, became an actor, and sold out venues at the International Hotel in Las Vegas.
It was until March 1970 when the king would hit the road and come back to Texas to perform at the Astrodome for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
In just six shows, the musician attracted more than 200,000 fans, setting records for Houston.
Elvis performing at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
The era of Elvis came to an end on August 16, 1977 when Elvis died in his home at Graceland.
According to Graceland, the King of Rock 'n' Roll performed in Texas approximately 138 times from 1954-1977. Although Tennessee and Mississippi are mainly associated with the musician, Texas played a vital role in the rise of Elvis Presley.
Elvis’s first Texas Appearances in 1954
Nov. 21 - Magnolia Gardens, HOUSTON
Nov. 21 - Cook’s Hoedown Club, HOUSTON
Nov. 22 - Mint Club, GLADEWATER
Nov. 24-27 Paladium Club, HOUSTON
Dec. 3 - Municipal Auditorium, TEXARKANA
Dec. 17 - High Shcool Gymnasium, HAWKINS
Dec. 28 - Cook’s Hoedown Club Yuletide Jamboree, HOUSTON
Dec. 31 - Red River Army Depot at NCO Club, TEXARKANA