Freddie Bell

Rock & roll forerunner Freddie Bell exerted a profound influence on the young Elvis Presley -- not only did Bell's energetic Las Vegas act shape The King's own larger-than-life stage persona, but Presley also lifted his rendition of the raucous Big Mama Thornton classic "Hound Dog" almost note-for-note, notching a landmark single in the process. Born Ferdinando Dominick Bello in Philadelphia on July 29, 1931, Bell studied trombone, bass, and drums as a teen, and made his professional debut in support of saxophonist Eddie Ventura. At age 20, he formed his own group, the Bellboy...