Sam Phillips moves his family to Memphis to open a recording studio to look for his first hit musical act, but instead rekindles a steamy affair. Young Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash struggle at home.

Sam records B.B. King, but his new label struggles. Elvis is inspired by African-American music, but is chastised by his family and girlfriend for crossing racial lines. We meet cousins Jerry Lee Lewis and Jimmy Swaggart.

Sam can’t find the follow-up hit to Ike Turner’s “Rocket 88.” Colonel Tom Parker’s conniving ways are exposed. Jerry Lee Lewis and Jimmy Swaggart have their eye on the same girl.