Elvis Aaron Presley, often called "the King" or the "King of Rock and Roll", was a 20th century American singer and actor who played a pivotal role in shaping rock and roll. His early records are considered some of the first examples of the genre, blending blues, gospel, and country. Presley's charismatic stage presence and energetic performances, along with hits like "Heartbreak Hotel" and "Hound Dog", propelled him to fame in the mid-1950s.