Diana Motta Morales- Core Response #3

    Elvis Culture by Erika Doss highlighted an idea I've never really thought about, Elvis is everywhere. Growing up Elvis was never on my mind, the only image I had of him was the iconic line of “Thank you very much” or shall I say– “thengkewvurrymush" in a deep low voice. Aside from niche quotes and famous songs, I can confidently say that I've never thought of Elvis as much as I have now. From films such as  Elvis and Priscilla I have learned more about his artistic career and his romantic relationships. 

    While reading the article I often thought who in modern day could compare to Elvis during his days and the only person I could think of was Taylor Swift. However, I doubt that Taylor has as much influence as Elvis. Some of Elvis fans “belonged to one or more of the 500 or so official Elvis Presley fan clubs that can be found around the world, more than half of them in the United States.” (Doss page 1) It is incredible to think of the influence and power he held back in the day, he was able to create communities and fan bases and entertainment while never relying on social media to promote new songs or shows. As for Taylor, the only way she's able to influence and promote everything she is doing is because of her large platform and fan base platforms that spread the word for her. Not to mention Tik Tok and how easy it is for her songs to go viral, simple videos from her fans that soon get the attention of others and soon everyone knows her song, would she have the same level of fame she had during Elvis time? Personally, I highly doubt it. 

Doss mentions how Elvis was no longer an artist he became known as a “Quasi-Religion”. He was made to be a central figure, out weighing icons such as Selena and social rights activist, Martin Luther King Jr. But why? Why does he hold such high standards of fame years after his death? Doss highlights a point I agree with, Elvis wasn't a person anymore, he was an idea, an image people wanted to copy, the “ideal American”. 


While reading Elvis Culture I was reminded a lot of Dyers take of a Stars image and how– though talent is pivotal, It wasn't what made him the figure he still is. His image and the way the audience viewed him was what kept him in the spotlight for so long, from teen heartthrob to countless sexual references, he was the It boy. His low raspy voice and sensual and erotic music hypnotized the attention of women and girls all around the world. Yet I still wonder, would he be as famous as he was before if he began his career today?

Comments

  1. ninsMarch 25, 2024 at 4:46 PM

    I think the comparison of Elvis in his prime to Taylor Swift in today’s modern era brings up very interesting topics. I do believe that Taylor Swift is also so famous today because she also embodies a bit of that “ideal American” image. People are critiqued for liking Taylor Swift music because she’s “basic”— but she’s more than that. She appeals to a large majority of the American audience, she’s an example of what people seek in a star. One difference between the two that is interesting to me is how Elvis’ image was directed towards his opposite sex- he was curated to grab the attention of women. Whilst Taylor Swift’s audience is mostly female and her songs are written for women— her image is curated for women.

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