Elvis fans from all over the world gather at the gates of Graceland for a candlelight vigil marking the 34th anniversary of the death of Elvis Presley, Monday, Aug. 15, 2011 in Memphis, Tenn. (AP Photo/The Commercial Appeal, Jim Weber)
Tuesday marked the 34th anniversary of music legend Elvis Presley, and thousands of devoted fans gathered at Graceland, his once home and now gravesite, to remember him.
The mourners walked through the cemetery on the grounds of the Memphis, Tenn. home, leaving flowers and other mementos at Presley’s gravesite. Some were dressed in full Elvis oufits and many were wearing his trademark sunglasses and sideburn. Police and an Elvis Presley Enterprises spokesman told the Associated Press that an estimated 15,000 to 20,000 people attended the vigil.
The annual vigils began when fans heard of his death on Aug. 16, 1977 and made the pilgrimage to his mansion. It became an organized event in 1982, and is the main focus of “Elvis Week,” a fan memorial at Graceland that features tribute concerts and fan parties.
Presley was found dead in a bathroom of his home when he was 42. His death was ruled the result of an irregular heartbeat, but the autopsy report was sealed amid rumors that prescription drugs played a role in his death.
In 1956, the year the first two Elvis albums were released, 10 million singles and 800,000 LPs were sold.
Presley was such an influence to popular culture that President Jimmy Carter made a statement following his death.
“Elvis Presley’s death deprives our country of a part of itself. He was unique and irreplaceable. More than 20 years ago, he burst upon the scene with an impact that was unprecedented and will probably never be equaled. His music and his personality, fusing the styles of white country and black rhythm and blues, permanently changed the face of American popular culture. His following was immense, and he was a symbol to people the world over of the vitality, rebelliousness, and good humor of his country.”
