American Toby Jug Museum 

Elvis Presley prototype toby jug wearing a black shirt and pants and produced by Kevin Francis Ceramics of Stoke-on-Trent, England, in 1993. Elvis Aaron Presley (1935-1977) was the rock and roll idol of the 1950s and 60s, and after his untimely death he has become a cult figure. Elvis' musical influences were the pop and country music of the time, the gospel music he heard in church, and the black R&B he absorbed on historic Beale Street as a Memphis teenager. In 1954, he began his singing career with the legendary Sun Records label in Memphis and by 1956 he was an international sensation. With a sound and style that uniquely combined his diverse musical influences and blurred and challenged the social and racial barriers of the time, he ushered in a whole new era of American music and popular culture. He starred in 33 successful films, made history with his television appearances and specials, and knew great acclaim through his many, often record-breaking, live concert performances. His talent, good looks, sensuality, charisma, and good humor endeared him to millions. Known the world over by his first name, he is regarded as one of the most important figures of twentieth century popular culture. Among his most popular songs were "Heartbreak Hotel", "Love Me Tender", "Hound Dog", and "Don't Be Cruel". A heart, pair of blue suede shoes, letter, and teddy bear form the handle of the jug.