These photos were taken by Elvis Presley’s photographer, Alfred Werthemer, who spent considerable time with Elvis during his early years.

The photographs Wertheimer took of the early Elvis remain some of the most remarkable and intimate photographs ever made of any major celebrity, in any era.

These photos were taken outside of the Manhattan CBS studios where on March 17th 1956, Elvis Presley made his first of what would be several appearances on a variety show called “Stage Show” hosted by Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey and produced by Jackie Gleason.

Following his performances, fans would wait in freezing cold temperatures for a chance to meet Elvis in person, and he was always happy to stop and sign autographs.