Elvis Presley’s 68 Comeback Special Medley: A Rock and Roll Resurrection

Elvis Presley’s 1968 Comeback Special wasn’t just a TV show; it was a cultural earthquake. The King, after years of Hollywood fluff, returned to his rock and roll roots in a raw and electrifying performance that reignited his career and cemented his legacy. Central to this resurgence was the iconic medley, a blistering sequence of rock and roll classics that showcased Elvis’s raw energy, undeniable charisma, and unmatched vocal prowess. This performance alone reintroduced Elvis to a new generation and reminded the world why he was crowned The King.

The ’68 Comeback Special, officially titled “Elvis,” aired on NBC on December 3, 1968. It marked Elvis’s return to live performance after seven years dedicated to making Hollywood movies. The special was a risky move, a departure from the safe, predictable path Elvis had been on. But it was a gamble that paid off spectacularly. The show, featuring a mix of staged studio productions and a live, informal jam session, captured Elvis at his best: raw, passionate, and undeniably cool. The highlight for many, including myself, was the electrifying medley that closed the show. It was a moment of pure rock and roll magic, a reminder of the power and energy that Elvis possessed.

Deconstructing the ’68 Comeback Special Medley: A Song-by-Song Journey

The medley itself was a carefully crafted journey through rock and roll history, featuring snippets of songs that had influenced Elvis and shaped his career. Tracks like “Lawdy, Miss Clawdy,” “Baby What You Want Me to Do,” “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Shake Rattle and Roll,” and “Tryin’ to Get to You” were woven together seamlessly, creating a dynamic and exhilarating performance. Each song showcased a different facet of Elvis’s talent, from his bluesy growl to his playful swagger. The medley wasn’t just a collection of songs; it was a statement, a declaration that the King was back. It was pure, unadulterated rock and roll, stripped down to its essence.

Why the Medley Mattered: Elvis’s Return to Authenticity

After years of being packaged and sanitized by Hollywood, the Comeback Special allowed Elvis to reconnect with his authentic self. The informal jam session segments, in particular, captured the spontaneous energy of his early performances. The leather-clad Elvis, surrounded by his band and backup singers, exuded a raw energy that had been missing from his recent work. The medley epitomized this return to authenticity. It was a moment of pure musical expression, free from the constraints of Hollywood scripts and orchestrated arrangements. The music was raw, the energy was palpable, and Elvis was clearly in his element.

The Impact of the Medley: A Cultural Touchstone

The impact of the ’68 Comeback Special, and the medley in particular, was profound. It revitalized Elvis’s career, launching him into a new phase marked by sold-out Las Vegas residencies and continued chart success. More importantly, it solidified his place in popular culture as a true icon. The special reminded the world of Elvis’s talent and charisma, and introduced him to a new generation of fans who had only known him as a movie star.

The Medley’s Enduring Legacy: Inspiring Generations of Musicians

The ’68 Comeback Special medley continues to inspire musicians today. Its raw energy, authentic performance, and masterful blend of classic rock and roll elements serve as a testament to the power of music. The medley’s impact can be heard in the work of countless artists across various genres. You can check out more Elvis’ greatest hits here: elvis presley elvis presley’s greatest hits songs. Its legacy is a testament to Elvis’s enduring influence and the timeless appeal of rock and roll.

What Songs Were in the Elvis Presley 68 Comeback Special Medley?

The medley was a powerhouse of classic rock and roll, blending several iconic tracks into a single electrifying performance. While the exact sequence and song selection varied slightly throughout the special, the core components remained consistent. It included hits like “Jailhouse Rock,” “Hound Dog,” “Love Me Tender,” “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” and “Suspicious Minds.” These weren’t just random choices; they represented a journey through Elvis’s career, highlighting his versatility and showcasing the evolution of his musical style. Discover more about Elvis’ songs here: elvis presley stories behind the songs.

How Long Was the Elvis Presley 68 Comeback Special Medley?

The length of the medley varied depending on the specific performance within the special. However, it generally clocked in around five to seven minutes. Despite its relatively short duration, the medley packed a powerful punch, delivering a concentrated dose of pure rock and roll energy that left a lasting impression on viewers.

Close-up of Elvis Presley during the Medley Performance

The Comeback Special Medley: A Testament to Elvis’s Enduring Power

The Elvis Presley 68 Comeback Special Medley wasn’t just a performance; it was a reawakening. It marked the return of the King to his rightful throne, reminding the world of his unparalleled talent and enduring charisma. Explore Elvis’ iconic 50 greatest hits: elvis presley the 50 greatest hits songs. Even today, the medley continues to resonate with audiences, inspiring musicians and solidifying Elvis’s place as a true legend of rock and roll. This special and its iconic medley serve as a potent reminder of the enduring power of authentic musical expression. For a deeper dive into Elvis’ music, check out this collection: cd elvis presley the 50 greatest hits.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About the Elvis ’68 Comeback Special Medley

1. What was the significance of Elvis’s black leather outfit in the Comeback Special? The black leather suit symbolized Elvis’s return to his rock and roll roots, a stark contrast to the more polished image he had cultivated in Hollywood.

2. Who directed the ’68 Comeback Special? Steve Binder directed the special.

3. Was the Comeback Special live or pre-recorded? The special featured both pre-recorded segments and a live, informal jam session.

4. Where can I watch the ’68 Comeback Special today? The special is available on DVD and various streaming platforms.

5. What other songs were performed in the Comeback Special besides the medley? Elvis performed a wide range of songs, including gospel numbers, ballads, and rock and roll classics. See what Elvis was doing in the 70s here: elvis presley 1970s songs.

6. Did Elvis win any awards for the Comeback Special? The special won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Variety or Music.

7. How did the Comeback Special impact Elvis’s career? It revitalized his career, leading to a successful resurgence in the 1970s.

8. Why is the ’68 Comeback Special considered a turning point in Elvis’s career? It marked his return to live performance and a renewed focus on his rock and roll roots after years in Hollywood.

9. What influence did the Comeback Special have on other artists? It inspired countless musicians with its raw energy and authentic performance, influencing generations of rock and roll artists.