Elvis Presley’s Greatest Tracks: The Top 10 Rock & Roll Classics

Elvis Presley, known as the King of Rock and Roll, left behind a remarkable legacy with his unforgettable music. His songs helped shape the sound of rock and roll and made him a superstar.

Here are Elvis Presley’s greatest tracks, featuring 10 of his most iconic rock and roll classics. From early hits that set the stage for his career to songs that defined his later years, these tracks showcase why Elvis is still celebrated as one of the greatest musicians of all time.

1. “Hound Dog” (1956)

Elvis Presley wc — Image Credit: See page for author, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Album: Elvis
Why It’s Great: This track is one of Elvis’s most iconic songs, showcasing his powerful voice and energetic performance style. It revolutionized the rock and roll sound with its raw, rebellious edge and became a defining moment of his career.

2. “Jailhouse Rock” (1957)

Elvis Presley Jailhouse Rock ss2497991473 — Image Credit: Ralf Liebhold/Shutterstock

Album: Jailhouse Rock
Why It’s Great: Featuring a driving beat and Elvis’s signature style, “Jailhouse Rock” topped the charts and became synonymous with the rock and roll era. Its catchy chorus and memorable music video, which featured Elvis dancing in a prison setting, solidified its place in rock history.

3. “Blue Suede Shoes” (1956)

Elvis Presley 2 wc — Image Credit: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, Inc. Reproduction Number: LC-USZ6-2067 Location: NYWTS — BIOG, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Album: Elvis Presley
Why It’s Great: Written by Carl Perkins and popularized by Elvis, this song’s upbeat rhythm and playful lyrics made it a rock and roll staple. Elvis’s rendition helped cement his role as a pioneering force in the genre.

4. “All Shook Up” (1957)

Elvis Presley ss2256990087 — Image Credit: Stefano Chiacchiarini ’74/Shutterstock

Album: Loving You
Why It’s Great: With its infectious rhythm and Elvis’s charismatic delivery, “All Shook Up” captured the excitement of the rock and roll movement. The song’s success on the charts and its place in pop culture exemplify its lasting appeal.

5. “Heartbreak Hotel” (1956)

Elvis Presley 1970 wc — Image Credit: Ollie Atkins, chief White House photographer at the time. See ARC record., Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Album: Elvis Presley
Why It’s Great: This song marked Elvis’s first major hit and introduced his unique style to a broader audience. Its moody, emotional lyrics combined with a rock and roll beat made it a groundbreaking hit that showcased his versatility and appeal.

6. “Don’t Be Cruel” (1956)

Elvis Presley 1957 wc — Image Credit: Uncredited, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Album: Elvis
Why It’s Great: This song combines a catchy melody with Elvis’s smooth vocal delivery. It was a commercial success, topping the Billboard pop charts, and its upbeat, rocking rhythm contributed to its lasting popularity.

7. “Burning Love” (1972)

Elvis Presley 3 wc — Image Credit: Uncredited, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Album: Burning Love and Hits from His Movies, Volume 2
Why It’s Great: Known for its energetic guitar riff and Elvis’s passionate performance, “Burning Love” is one of his most memorable tracks from the early ’70s. It marked a resurgence in his rock and roll popularity, showcasing his enduring appeal.

8. “That’s All Right” (1954)

Elvis Presley exhibiton ss2377352591 — Image Credit: Loredana Sangiuliano/Shutterstock

Album: Single Release
Why It’s Great: Often considered the song that launched Elvis’s career, “That’s All Right” was his first single and a pivotal moment in rock and roll history. Its fusion of country and blues elements helped define the genre and established Elvis as a major force in music.

9. “Good Rockin’ Tonight” (1954)

Elvis Presley 1973 wc — Image Credit: George R. Fry, Los Angeles Times, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Album: Single Release
Why It’s Great: A cover of the Wynonie Harris song, this track is notable for its energetic delivery and rhythm. It helped set the stage for Elvis’s early success and highlighted his ability to breathe new life into classic songs.

10. “Little Sister” (1961)

Elvis Presley 4 wc — Image Credit: Tzali, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Album: Something for Everybody
Why It’s Great: This song features a distinctive rock and roll beat and Elvis’s playful vocals. It showcases his versatility and ability to adapt to the changing musical landscape while maintaining his rock and roll roots.

As we listen to these iconic songs, we’re reminded of why Elvis Presley remains an unforgettable figure in the history of music.