by Becky Robbins

Created on: July 12, 2009

Whether it is an artist's sound or style, sometimes one can make an impact on the music industry that changes it forever. The question has been posed who had the biggest influence over music. In one corner stands the King of Pop while the King of Rock stands at attention in the other corner. Although Michael Jackson's style and sound have affected music in so many ways, Elvis Presley's influence over music has been greater.

Elvis has been credited with changing the face of American popular culture. Before Elvis came along, music was more conservative, much like the codes and standards of the period. Focusing on the youth who were trying to break free of those conservative ideals, Elvis became a symbol of rebellion. There Elvis stood, in all his hip-shaking glory, much to the dismay of parents around America. His beautiful voice belted out a new sound with bluesy riffs and a little country.

The King of Rock tore down the social and racial barriers of his time. Until his sound, which reflected his influences of pop and country music of the time, not to mention black R&B sounds along with some gospel music, the black artists of the era were having doors slammed in their faces left and right. Elvis broke the racial barriers by bring black music to a white audience. Some accused him of stealing black music, but it was his way of showing his musical influences. Chuck Berry and Little Richard were just two of the talented artists that walked through the door Elvis opened. Some might say that had it not been for Elvis, Michael Jackson would not have had his successes.

Michael Jackson has influenced music in his own right. His music brought people together, regardless of race, class, or gender. Jackson's music actually incorporated a more diverse group of followers. He is a prominent figure in African-American music. Jackson has spent the last thirty years transforming music. Integrating different genres of music has opened people's ears to new sounds. Some of his music has a pop-rock sound while some has a pop-hip hop sound.

Both artists have inspired the musical industry. Such acts as the Beatles and Bob Dylan admitted they wanted to be the next Elvis. Michael Jackson has a long list of followers as well. Justin Timberlake, Britney Spears, Usher, Chris Brown, and Rhianna are just a few examples of artists today that attribute their success to Michael's influence.

Although Michael Jackson has influenced the music industry and helped to shape it into what it is today. Unfortunately his personal life was more a focus over his music for more than ten years. It may take some time for him to work his way back up to his title of "King of Pop." However, Elvis' successes and influence have reigned, even thirty years after his death. The King of Rock has been more influential to the music industry.

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