Which singing group backed up Elvis Presley?

When you listen to Elvis Presley's classic hits from the 1950s and 60s, that rich, multi-part harmony you hear in the background belongs to a Nashville-based gospel quartet. Originally members of the Grand Ole Opry, this group became Elvis's principal vocal collaborators from 1956 through 1968, appearing on dozens of his most iconic records, television specials, and films.

Their sound was integral to the King's success. The group’s gospel roots blended perfectly with Elvis’s own, while their signature tight harmonies and the distinctive deep bass voice of Gordon Stoker (and later Ray Walker) added a crucial layer to hits like "Hound Dog," "Don't Be Cruel," and "Are You Lonesome Tonight?". They weren't just singing backup; they were a fundamental part of the sonic architecture that defined early rock and roll.

Their influence wasn't limited to their work with Elvis. As one of the most in-demand session groups in history, they also recorded with a staggering list of other legends, including Patsy Cline, Ricky Nelson, and Johnny Cash. Their voices helped shape the famous "Nashville Sound" and can be heard on thousands of recordings, solidifying their legacy as true music industry titans.