Elvis records his first demo, "My Happiness". His father injures his back, and forces Elvis to support the family. A year later, Sam Phillips calls to have Elvis come back into Sun Records, and work with some musicians, Scotty Moore and Bill Black.

Elvis tries out a few songs at Sun Records, which leads to the recording of his first record, "That’s All Right, Mama". The record is played on the air, and Elvis realizes his life is about to change.

Elvis, Scotty and Bill play their first gig. Elvis opens with a ballad, and then tears into "Good Rockin’ Tonight", shaking his hips, driving the crowd wild. Elvis' girlfriend, fearing all the attention he is getting, gives him a locket.

Elvis, Scotty and Bill go out on the road for their first tour. On the way, they encounter many troubles as they tour the country as the first rock 'n' roll group.

Elvis gets his first royalty check and spends it on a pink Cadillac.

Elvis (as a high school student), learns the blues from a Beale St. street musician.

Elvis, Scotty and Bill get a show in Tupelo, Mississippi. Elvis meets up with old friends, and, after his show at the local all-white high school, sits in at an all-black blues club.

Fans start reacting to Elvis, and it becomes more than he can handle.

Elvis and the boys get the offer to perform at the Grand Ole Opry where, after their heads swell a bit, they go over like a lead balloon.

They go back to Memphis with their tails between their legs, and struggle to record their next record.

Elvis, Scotty and Bill book themselves at the Louisiana Hayride, the major radio show that gave Elvis his start. The subplot revolves around all of the characters being as stubborn as mules, the fourth "mule" being Sam Phillips.

Elvis is on the road with his band. He cheats on his girlfriend, and she catches him at it.