Rare Footage from 1956

1950s

Explore 56 rare behind-the-scenes clips and footage of famous musicians from 1956.

1956 in Music

Elvis Presley's breakthrough year — 'Heartbreak Hotel', 'Don't Be Cruel', and 'Love Me Tender' dominated the charts. James Brown made his recording debut, and the Sun Records stable of artists was reshaping popular music from Memphis.

Artists

Bud ShankOtis RushSkeeter BrandonDillon CarmichaelHank CochranEddie CochranIvory Joe HunterJoe HunterRhythm sectionduke ellington sNewport Jazz FestivalDuke EllingtonClark TerryJimmy HamiltonConcertduke ellington reSongwriterY&TKenny Morrisdoo wop at the gLacy GibsonEddie TaylorLloyd PriceLittle Willie Johnponcho sanchezBob DylanRideRed NicholsRose TattooTeena MarieJohn LewisJohnny CashElvis PresleyJerry Lee LewisJam sessionThe PlattersThe Detroit EmeraldsR.E.M.Mahalia JacksonPapa Charlie McCoyJosh WhitePee Wee CraytonBenny GoodmanLouis ArmstrongPeanuts HuckoLittle RichardBillie HolidayChuck Berry