Yola, British-born Americana singer and musician, has been cast as rock and roll pioneer Sister Rosetta Tharpe in Baz Luhrmann’s upcoming musical biopic Elvis, according to Variety.

Tharpe is known as the godmother of rock and roll and has provided the groundwork for many stars. Unfortunately, her status as a pioneer was overshadowed by the white male musicians who were influenced by her work, such as Elvis Presley.

Yola is perfect casting for Tharpe, since, similar to Tharpe, Yola’s own singing career straddles the line between rock and roll, r&b and country. Also, Yola not only favors Tharpe in appearance but also in her talent with the guitar.

Austin Butler stars as Presley in the film, with Tom Hanks as Presley’s manager Colonel Tom Parker. Rufus Sewell and Maggie Gyllenhaal play Presley’s parents. The film was written by Luhrmann, Craig Pearce and Sam Bromwell.

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Photo: Getty

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