Recent music news highlights figures connected to Elvis Presley, including a Swamp Rock pioneer who made his Grand Ole Opry debut shortly before passing in 2018, a legendary rock guitarist whose work influenced artists like the Beach Boys and Johnny Cash, and a country icon who rose to fame alongside Presley and inspired Merle Haggard. Other tributes focus on individuals who shaped Presley’s career, such as a songwriter who penned his first No. 1 hit and a Nashville figure known as the 'Queen Mother' for her role in launching Blake Shelton’s career.