It's hard to believe but we are coming up on the 41st anniversary of Elvis Presley's death. The singer died at his Graceland compound on August 16th 1977. Despite his death, the legend of the "King of Rock n Roll" is still alive and well...especially here in Shreveport.

Elvis made his first appearance in Shreveport on the Louisiana Hayride on October 16th 1954. The King of Rock was still a 19 year old boy trying to make a name for himself. And make a name for himself, he did. He made several appearances on the Louisiana Hayride between 1954 and 1956. His last appearance at a special Hayride show at Hirsch Coliseum in 1956 is where the phrase "Elvis has left the building" was first uttered. Another fun fact, the only commercial Elvis ever recorded in his life was for Southern Maid donuts in 1954. According to legend, he recorded the commercial in exchange for a box of donuts.

Presley went on of course to become the biggest musical star in the world. Elvis is widely credited with changing pop culture in America. But despite all his success, he never forgot the place where he got his first big break, Shreveport. Not only did he return numerous times between 1956 and his death in 1977, but he hired Shreveport native James Burton to be an integral part of his  band and stage show.

In fact, if you weren't around in the 50s, 60s or 70s to see Elvis live in Shreveport, there are numerous albums that capture Elvis' live shows from the Municipal and the Hirsch.  According to local lore, the ghost of Elvis resides at the Municipal to this day. So, while the world is remembering and celebrating the life and times of Elvis this week, we should take time to remember the impact the King had on our community.

More From News Radio 710 KEEL