Elvis Presley – Rock ‘N’ Roll Medley – Don’t Be Cruel, Blue (White) Suede Shoes
The Elvis Summer Festival at the International Hotel in Las Vegas began on August 10, 1970, and represented a pivotal moment in Elvis Presley’s career. Following a long period focused primarily on film, Elvis returned to the stage with a renewed vigor and passion that captivated audiences and critics alike. The festival included a series of performances captured by MGM’s film crew, leading to the creation of the documentary “Elvis: That’s the Way It Is.” This documentary not only showcased the concerts but also provided a behind-the-scenes look at the extensive preparations and rehearsals that made these performances possible.
The performances from August 10 to 13 were meticulously planned and executed, featuring a dynamic setlist that included classics like “Suspicious Minds,” “I Just Can’t Help Believin’,” and “The Wonder of You.” These shows highlighted Elvis’s ability to connect with his audience, both through his music and his charismatic stage presence. His interactions with the crowd were spontaneous and heartfelt, adding a layer of intimacy to the grand spectacle of his performances. This period marked a significant resurgence in his live performance career, setting the stage for many more successful concerts in Las Vegas and beyond.
The film crew’s presence added an element of permanence to these performances, capturing not just the music but the essence of Elvis’s artistry. The resulting documentary, “Elvis: That’s the Way It Is,” provided fans with an unprecedented glimpse into Elvis’s world, showing his dedication to his craft and his relentless pursuit of perfection. The film was released later in the year and has since become a cherished piece of Elvis’s legacy, illustrating the hard work and passion that defined his return to live performance.
Elvis’s return to the stage in 1970 was a defining moment, not just for his career, but for rock and roll history. The energy and excitement of the Summer Festival were palpable, and the concerts were a testament to Elvis’s enduring appeal and his ability to reinvent himself. This period also showcased his versatility as an artist, blending rock and roll with ballads and even incorporating contemporary hits into his setlist. The performances were not just concerts but experiences that left a lasting impression on all who attended.
During this time, Elvis was backed by a stellar group of musicians and vocalists, including the TCB Band and the Sweet Inspirations. These collaborators played a crucial role in bringing Elvis’s vision to life, providing the musical foundation that allowed him to shine. The chemistry between Elvis and his band was evident in every performance, adding another layer of excitement and professionalism to the shows. The inclusion of orchestral elements, conducted by Joe Guercio, further elevated the performances, blending the raw energy of rock and roll with the sophistication of orchestral arrangements.
In addition to the live performances, the rehearsals leading up to the festival were an integral part of the documentary. These rehearsals offered fans a rare glimpse into Elvis’s creative process, showing his attention to detail and his relentless pursuit of excellence. The documentary captured moments of humor, frustration, and triumph, painting a comprehensive picture of Elvis as both a performer and a person. These insights added depth to the narrative, making the film more than just a concert documentary but a true exploration of Elvis’s artistry.
Elvis Presley, born on January 8, 1935, in Tupelo, Mississippi, rose to fame in the mid-1950s with a unique blend of rock and roll, blues, and country music. His dynamic voice and charismatic stage presence quickly made him a cultural icon, earning him the title “King of Rock and Roll.” Over the course of his career, Elvis released numerous hit records, starred in over 30 films, and became one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, his legacy endures, influencing countless artists and shaping the landscape of popular music.
The impact of the 1970 Summer Festival extended beyond the immediate success of the concerts and the documentary. It marked the beginning of a new era for Elvis, one that saw him return to the top of the music world and solidify his place as a legendary performer. The festival’s success demonstrated Elvis’s ability to adapt and evolve, proving that his appeal transcended generations. This period of his career is often looked back on as a high point, a time when Elvis was able to reclaim his throne and remind the world why he was, and always will be, the King of Rock and Roll.
