Sam Phillips was an influential American record producer and studio owner, best known for founding Sun Records in 1952. He played a crucial role in the development of rock and roll music, discovering and producing early recordings for iconic artists like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis. His innovative approach to recording helped shape the sound of popular music in the 20th century. Born on January 5, 1923, in Florence, Alabama, Phillips began his career in radio before establishing his recording studio in Memphis, Tennessee. His passion for music and talent for spotting emerging artists made him a key figure in the music industry, earning him recognition as a pioneer of rock music. He passed away on July 30, 2003.