Early Elvis: Meteoric Rise to Stardom

In the mid-to-late 1950s, Elvis Presley became rock ’n’ roll’s first superstar by fusing country, blues, and pop with his signature works like “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Hound Dog,” “Don’t Be Cruel,” and “Jailhouse Rock.” Rock music historian and author Richie Unterberger celebrates his emergence as an American icon by showing and discussing vintage film clips of these songs, along with a wealth of other lesser-known songs recorded on his early discs.

Rock historian Richie Unterberger is the author of numerous rock history books, including volumes on the Beatles, the Who, the Velvet Underground, Bob Marley, and 1960s folk-rock. He teaches courses on rock and soul music history at several Bay Area colleges. His latest book, San Francisco: Portrait of a City, was published by Taschen in 2022.

In July 2026 we honor the 250th birthday of the United States by celebrating the anniversary of its independence, marking a historic milestone known as the Semi quincentennial.

Join us for these exciting upcoming lectures and movie which shine a spotlight on the uniquely creative and innovative contributions to our American culture.

Matinee Movie – Yankee Doodle Dandy

Experience the movie that shouts out patriotism, see it on Thursday, 7/2 at 1:00 pm

Star Spangled Jazz

Songs and movie musicals sustained Americans and the Troops during WW11, learn more on Tuesday, 7/7 @ 1:00 pm

Elvis

What’s more uniquely American than Elvis in the 1950’s? Hear from our rock historian on Thursday, 7/30 @ 1:00 pm