Laura Anne Neidert (lauaneid) from 170.143.229.94 at 10/01/99 10:15AM
comment
    I think that the reason Elvis is still so popular is because his story has been idealized. He has been made to look like he singularly made it to the top, when actually he had a lot of help, even in song writing. While he did a lot for music, the people that helped him get started need a lot of credit for his success (like Sam Phillips). Some people also have an irreverence for him because of the gaudiness of the commercialization associated with Elvis. The impersonators and merchandise lessen his persona and make him a "joke" as Dr. Dan pointed out. I feel that he was very influential but given too much credit.