Elvis Aaron (or Aron) Presley, popularly known by the single name Elvis, (January 8, 1935 – August 16, 1977) was a musician, actor and performer. Presley became an essential figure of rock and roll and sang rock, country, blues, and gospel. He has become an American cultural icon and a major figure in American popular culture. Presley is known as  The King of Rock n' Roll  or simply  The King .