Elvis Presley Debut on the Louisiana Hayride - October 16, 1954

Colored picture (Elvis Presley Debut on Louisiana hayride)

Elvis Presley Debut on Louisiana hayride

april 23, 1955 Louisiana Hayride

He appear for the first time on the Louisiana Hayride, a live Saturday night country music radio show originating in Shreveport, Louisiana, broadcast over KWKH Radio. The show is the Grand Ole Opry's chief competitor, carried by 190 stations in thirteen states. This leads to regular appearances on the Hayride and, in November, Elvis signs a one-year contract for fifty-two Saturday night appearances. This is a great break, but as Elvis’ popularity grows, his commitment to the Hayride prevents him from traveling much outside the South to further his career on a larger scale.

more info: elvis.com