There would be no me if there hadn't been an Elvis. I idolized that man as a child and wanted to be like Elvis more than anything in the world. I would spend every penny I had on Elvis records and would pretend I was him doing shows for my neighbors in my backyard.

Elvis is the reason performers perform the way they do. He is the reason we dress the way do and so much more. Elvis had an immeasurable effect on all aspects of society. The world had never seen anything like him and never has since.

Today Elvis would be celebrating his 83rd birthday and I can only imagine how much those hips would still be swiveling. I will spend the day listening to his music and watching his movies and remembering the man. Thank you to Vernon and Gladys for the gift of your child.

More From K99