Final answer:
The popular music genre of the 1950s, associated with figures like Elvis Presley and John Lennon, is rock 'n' roll. This genre blended various musical styles and became a symbol of youth culture and rebellion, despite resistance from older generations. Rock 'n' roll also had a significant impact on civil rights by breaking down racial barriers in music.
Step-by-step explanation:
The music genre that became immensely popular during the 1950s with iconic figures such as Elvis Presley and John Lennon is known as rock 'n' roll. This genre was a blend of various musical styles including gospel, blues, bluegrass, country, western, and R&B. It was characterized by a sense of youthful rebellion and was often met with disapproval from the older generation who considered it a threat to American values. Despite this, rock 'n' roll played a significant role in breaking down racial barriers as white youths embraced African American musicians, contributing to the civil rights movement of that era. Elvis Presley, a notable figure of rock 'n' roll, first recorded at Sun Records in 1954, creating a unique sound by merging different regional styles. His impact on the genre was profound, as was the effect of other artists like Chuck Berry and Little Richard. Rock 'n' roll also intersected with the burgeoning youth culture, becoming a pivotal part of their identity and expression. The genre was instrumental in the development of music and popular culture in America and became an enduring element of the entertainment industry. Moreover, rock 'n' roll evolved over the years and influenced numerous other genres and artists, culminating in events like the Woodstock festival, which became emblematic of the era's spirit.