I was 20 when I wrote this article back in 1995 for The Elvis Beat #13, my official Elvis Presley Fan Club newsletter.

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In Cleveland on Labor Day Weekend, the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame & Museum opened its doors for the first time.

Elvis was mentioned only briefly at the seven-hour concert that celebrated the event, but he is featured prominently in the hall and museum. As mentioned in The Elvis Beat #12, among many Elvis exhibits is an entire section of the museum devoted to his 1968 NBC television special, ELVIS, which rejuvenated his career.

Elvis and over a hundred other artists are also part of an exhibit called “The 500 Songs.” The list displays the most influential songs in rock history and was compiled by chief curator Jim Henke with the aid of rock writers from all over the country.

Six Elvis songs made the list:

• That’s All Right (1954)
• Mystery Train (1955)
• Heartbreak Hotel (1956)
• Love Me Tender (1956)
• Jailhouse Rock (1957)
• Suspicious Minds (1969)

With the possible exception of “Love Me Tender,” I agree with their choices of Elvis songs for being the most influential on rock music. His 1950s songs had the biggest influence on rock, and I also give the compilers credit for choosing “Suspicious Minds” to recognize his later music. [. . . .]