A memorable day in music history, a day of smiles and tears, a day of love. Today marks the birth of Madonna Louise Veronica Ciccone (1958-) and the death of Elvis Aaron Presley (1935-1977).

Both talented and charismatic pop legends achieved fame and changed the world. With ageless passion, both continue to influence others, in death and in life.

"It is very hard to live up to an image," Presley once reflected. The King of Rock and Roll celebrated the joy of rhythm, shocked the norm, and drove women wild. A phenomenon, he redefined music and became one of the greatest stars of the 20th century.

Likewise, Madonna. Through the years, the 5'4" dynamo has evolved and reinvented herself, scandalized and achieved global recognition. She is in your face, seeming to relish the controversy and mainline the media attention.

"A lot of people are afraid to say what they want. That's why they don't get what they want," she once explained. "I became an overachiever to get approval from the world."

Elvis, a poor boy from Tupelo, Mississippi, was an overachiever, too, who said: "Ambition is a dream with a V8 engine." He became a prisoner of fame. "When you're a celebrity, people treat you nicer," he said. "The bad part is, they also tell you what they think you want to hear, which ain't always the truth."

On the other hand, Madonna continues to bask in the fame. "I stand for freedom of expression, doing what you believe in, and going after your dreams," she said. "I don’t care if you hate me or love me, as long as I make you think."

Certainly, Madonna...and Elvis... have made us think: there only was ONE Elvis Presley. And ONE Madonna.

Tears speak of love.