Speech Incoherent, But Sang Oh, My. 46 Years Later, Still Powerful
Elvis Presley’s passing on August 16, 1977, at the age of 42, marked the end of an era for music and culture. His death came after a prolonged struggle with prescription medication and alcohol abuse, casting a shadow over his final public appearances. One such notable event occurred in Indianapolis, Indiana, on June 26, 1977, less than two months before his untimely demise. Prior to this, two performances were captured on film: one in Omaha, Nebraska, on June 19, and another in Rapid City, South Dakota, on June 21, both intended for a television special.
The resulting television special, “Elvis in Concert,” aired posthumously, featuring scenes from these final performances. Initially rerun as per contractual agreements, subsequent showings were restricted by the Presley estate due to concerns over the special’s portrayal of Presley in a diminished physical state. Sadly, this depiction led to the unfortunate nickname of the “Fat Elvis” concert among critics and fans alike.
The poignant encore of the South Dakota concert, where Presley performed “Are You Lonesome Tonight?,” stands as his last recorded act. Despite evident struggles with the spoken parts of the song, Presley’s vocal performance remained remarkably strong, showcasing his enduring talent amid declining health. Observers have noted that while Presley often playfully altered lyrics and interacted with the audience, his spoken words during this performance were notably more subdued, hinting at his deteriorating condition, which some experts suggest warranted hospital care at the time.
Reflecting on personal turmoil, including his 1973 divorce from Priscilla Presley, Elvis introduced “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” with poignant words: “This one is called Are You Lonesome Tonight? I am, and I was.” Despite a stumble during the spoken part, which he shrugged off with characteristic charm, Presley regained his composure to deliver the song’s lyrics with heartfelt emotion. Even amid physical challenges, his vocal prowess shone through, contrasting sharply with his earlier clear and articulate rendition of “Unchained Melody” earlier in the show.
The emotional impact of Presley’s final performances resonates deeply with fans, as seen in heartfelt comments on platforms like YouTube. One user, Mikey, reflected on the powerful final moments of the song, recalling personal visits to Graceland with his father and appreciating the enduring legacy of Elvis’s voice and charisma.
The contrast between Presley’s clear delivery of “Unchained Melody” and the more muted rendition of “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” underscores the toll his health issues took on his performances. Despite these challenges, Presley’s commitment to his craft led him to complete a staggering 55 shows in the first half of 1977, demonstrating his dedication to his audience and his profession.
Jerry Schilling, a close confidant of Presley, detailed concerns raised about filming “Elvis in Concert” given Presley’s visible decline. Despite these concerns, Presley’s manager, Col. Tom Parker, affirmed it was Presley’s decision to proceed with the special as planned, highlighting Presley’s determination to continue performing despite his health struggles.
In hindsight, Presley’s final public concert stands as a testament to his enduring impact on music and his unwavering dedication to his artistry. His voice, though affected by health challenges, continues to evoke profound emotions and admiration from fans worldwide. As the world mourns the loss of a musical legend, Elvis Presley’s legacy remains eternally vibrant and influential in shaping the landscape of popular music.
