Elvis Presley – Trouble (’68 Comeback Special)

About the ’68 Comeback Special

Elvis Presley’s ’68 Comeback Special, officially titled “Elvis,” was a television special that aired on December 3, 1968. It marked a significant moment in Elvis’s career as it revitalized his music and image. Here are some key points about the ’68 Comeback Special:

1. Background:
   • Elvis had not performed live in front of an audience for several years leading up to the special.
   • The special was commissioned by NBC to celebrate Elvis’s return to live performances and to help boost his career.
2. Format:
   • The special had a unique format, featuring a combination of live concert performances and intimate, informal sessions.
   • It was divided into segments, including a sit-down jam session with Elvis and his band and a full live concert segment with a small audience.
3. Black Leather Outfit:
   • One of the most iconic elements of the special was Elvis wearing a black leather outfit during the live concert portion.
   • This outfit became synonymous with his comeback and is often referred to as the “leather suit.”
4. Setlist:
   • Elvis performed a mix of his classic hits and new material during the special, showcasing his versatility as a performer.
   • Some of the songs featured include “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Hound Dog,” “If I Can Dream,” and “Jailhouse Rock.”
5. Critical Acclaim:
   • The ’68 Comeback Special was well-received by both critics and fans.
   • It helped re-establish Elvis as a relevant and dynamic performer, marking a turning point in his career.
6. Impact:
   • Following the success of the special, Elvis experienced a career resurgence.
   • It led to a series of successful live performances in Las Vegas and ultimately contributed to the revitalization of his music career.

The ’68 Comeback Special is often considered a pivotal moment in Elvis Presley’s career, showcasing his talent and charisma, and it remains a significant part of his legacy.

About the Song

“Trouble” is one of the notable songs performed by Elvis Presley during his ’68 Comeback Special. Here are some details about the song:

1. Original Release:
   • “Trouble” was originally recorded by Elvis Presley and released as a single in 1958.
   • It was written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, a songwriting duo known for their contributions to early rock and roll.
2. ’68 Comeback Special Performance:
   • Elvis included “Trouble” in the segment of the special where he performed live in front of a small audience.
   • The song was part of the setlist that showcased a mix of his classic hits and newer material.
3. Musical Style:
   • “Trouble” is a rock and roll song with a bluesy edge, featuring energetic and upbeat musical arrangements characteristic of Elvis’s early work.
4. Lyrics:
   • The lyrics of “Trouble” convey a sense of danger and excitement, reflecting the rebellious and charismatic persona that Elvis often embodied in his performances.
5. Significance:
   • The inclusion of “Trouble” in the ’68 Comeback Special helped connect Elvis with his roots in rock and roll, emphasizing his status as a dynamic and influential performer.
6. Legacy:
   • “Trouble” remains a popular and iconic song in Elvis Presley’s repertoire.
   • The performance of “Trouble” in the ’68 Comeback Special is remembered as a powerful and charismatic moment in the show.

Overall, Elvis’s rendition of “Trouble” in the ’68 Comeback Special contributed to the overall success of the special and played a role in re-establishing him as a vibrant and relevant artist in the music industry.

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