By host Tom Ashbrook:
Thirty years ago today, Elvis Presley died at Graceland, a drugged and bloated mess. Fifty years ago this year – young and wild – the gyrating electric Elvis was at the top of his game, astonishing the country.
In between was a career that crossed racial lines, launched rock and roll, thrilled fans, broke hearts and defined 20th century celebrity in America. “Before Elvis,” said John Lennon, “there was nothing.” Well, not exactly.
But what about after? In the house of American culture, is Elvis still in the building?
This hour On Point: where Elvis lives now.
Guests:
Jay Sweet, Editor-at-Large of Paste Magazine
Brian Mansfield, Nashville Correspondent for USA Today
Mark Anthony Neal, Professor of African-American Studies at Duke University
Joann Smith, President of the Elvis Fever Fan Club
