Speech unclear, but the singing—wow. Even after 46 years, still powerful.

Elvis Presley’s death on August 16, 1977, at the age of 42, marked the end of a transformative era in music and culture. His passing followed a prolonged struggle with prescription medication and alcohol, which affected his final public appearances. Notably, his last performances before his death were captured on film and intended for a television special. These performances took place in Omaha, Nebraska, on June 19, 1977, and Rapid City, South Dakota, on June 21, 1977.

The resulting television special, “Elvis in Concert,” aired posthumously and included scenes from these final performances. The special was initially rerun as part of contractual obligations but faced restrictions later due to concerns from the Presley estate. They were worried that the special’s portrayal of Presley, showing him in a weakened physical state, might negatively impact his legacy. This led to the unfortunate moniker of the “Fat Elvis” concert among some critics and fans.

The South Dakota concert, particularly poignant for its encore, featured Presley’s rendition of “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” as his final recorded performance. Despite evident struggles with the spoken parts of the song, Presley’s vocal delivery remained powerful and emotive. His interactions with the audience during this performance were more subdued than usual, reflecting his declining health. Some experts have suggested that he might have required medical attention at that time.

Personal turmoil also colored Presley’s final performances, including his 1973 divorce from Priscilla Presley. He introduced “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” with a heartfelt remark: “This one is called Are You Lonesome Tonight? I am, and I was.” Despite a stumble during the spoken part of the song, which he managed with his characteristic charm, Presley delivered the lyrics with emotional depth. His performance, even in his physical state, showcased his enduring vocal talent, contrasting with his earlier, clearer rendition of “Unchained Melody” during the show.

The impact of Presley’s final performances continues to resonate deeply with fans. Comments on platforms like YouTube reflect the emotional significance of these moments, with fans recalling the poignant nature of his last public acts and the enduring power of his voice even in his final days.