Alis Lesley

Alis Lesley (born Alice Lesley or Alice Leslie; April 20, 1938) is an American former rockabilly singer, once billed as "the female Elvis Presley."

Early life Lesley was born in Chicago, Illinois, United States. Her family later moved to Phoenix, Arizona, where she attended Phoenix Junior College. She majored in television and radio, and began singing rockabilly while a student. She was discovered by Kathryn Godfrey, a popular Phoenix television personality and the sister of Arthur Godfrey. With Kathryn Godfrey's help, Lesley became a local favorite following her appearances on television station KTVK and in local night clubs.

Career Early on, Lesley formed her own western band, the Arizona Stringdusters, and were a night club act in Phoenix.

Lesley's stage persona as the "Female Elvis Presley" included a guitar slung around her neck, greased-back hair, and combed-down sideburns.

In 1957, Lesley released her debut and only single, "He Will Come Back to Me" backed with "Heartbreak Harry" (Era Records 45-1034).

She toured Australia in October 1957, with Little Richard, Eddie Cochran, Gene Vincent, and local rocker Johnny O'Keefe. The tour was cut short when Richard underwent a "religious experience" and he retired from rock and roll for several years.

Legacy A picture of Lesley between Little Richard and Eddie Cochran appears on the cover of The Philosophy of Modern Song written by Bob Dylan.

Discography

Single

"He Will Come Back to Me" b/w "Heartbreak Harry" (Era Records, 1957)

Compilations

Barefoot Rockabilly Angel (K-Tel, 2008) He Will Come Back to Me (Sleazy Records, 2016)