Elvis went to a car dealership to buy another car. When he was going in, a young black girl was leaving and she was crying. Elvis asked her why. She said they wouldn't sell her one and she needed one so she could work and pay for college. Elvis took her back in and bought her a car. He told her to show up at Graceland the next day after class. He gave her a job. Her job was to sit at his kitchen table and do her homework. He paid for her college education.
Typical Elvis. He never forgot his extremely poor roots, and was generous to a fault with people, but not this very deserving young girl. I hope her life was happy and successful because of Elvis's generosity and genuine interest in her future.
He also went to buy 25 Cadillacs for his crew and family, and when he found out he wasn't getting any kind of discount from the dealer, he left and bought them from another dealer, who gave him one free. Such a righteous, cool cat
From what I understand, Elvis was broke when he passed away. Not because he blew his money on extravagant things for himself necessarily, though he did have all the bling before that was a thing, but in cases like you just mentioned where he was just so generous. He knew where he came from. He refused to talk politics with anyone because he was humble enough to realize he wasn't an expert, but through this song, he made a statement that no matter who you vote for, standing with racists is unacceptable and we all need to step up and treat each other better.
This was actually a tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King! Shortly before Elvis filmed the '68 Comeback special Martin Luther king was assassinated and Elvis wanted to pay respect to him.
Close, this was basically a twofer, Robert Kennedy was assassinated when this was filmed in June, Martin Luther King was assassinated in April. But this was bringing the King message front and center.
@@Vialle1014 Saud he laid on the floor in the fetal position and cried for hours! He was on the set of one of his movies when he found out, and filming had to stop for the day, he couldn't perform he was out of it!
RACISM!! HE WAS THE “BLACK”BELVIS AND OUR OWN PEOPLE AND DRUGS, JUST LIKE THE RST OF THESE ENTERTAINERS, RUIN3D HIM. HIM. HOLLYWOOD IS NOT ABOUT BLACK OR WHITE, IT IS ABOUT THE BUSINESS. THEY WILL USE WHOMEVER IS WILLING..UNDERSTAND!!
No one mentions the fact that he could barely stand let alone talk at the end. He literally put everything he had and believed into that performance. He is sooo missed.
@@DJBenjoyer exactly...this was 1968.. his health started deteriorating when Priscilla left him in 1972...that was the beginning of the end for him. I still cant stop myself from tearing up every time I listen to his music!!
The reason he could barely stand by the end of the song was not because of his health but rather because of the emotion he put into the song. He was overcome by the tumultuous times and the reason for the song…a tribute for Martin Luther King.
@@DJBenjoyer hey bud ...your not wrong BUT... " Not quite about to die ", a bit off. He just finished the movie contracts which was the beginning of the end. He never got the serious script he wanted to be a serious actor. They were paychecks is all. Thats when the numbing started. So, 1968' started his " comeback " as a serious artist. He didn't know if he'd be accepted. Was slated to be a Xmas show. All Xmas songs. The producer Steve Binder..? Begged E to do what they ultimately did. The convincing moment was Steve asked E to take a.walk outside. E replied " I can't, I'll be mobbed " They walked the streets. No mobs. Zeppelin, Stones, Beatles, Motown etc. were dominating music, not Elvis. Steve said " ya see Elvis, it's a comeback. No Xmas special yet... The rest is history. Btw. Almost 5 grueling years of 2-3 shows a day. Records still unmatched today.. then the decline from boredom defeating drugs. My opinion.
This song was written by Earl Brown Earl Brown himself said Elvis inspired this song when he came into his office because they he was looking for a song for the closure of the 1968 singer special AKA 68 comeback special it was just days after Robert f Kennedy was assassinated and a month after Martin Luther King was assassinated Elvis was so upset about both of the assassinations particularly Martin Luther King that he expressed his emotions and his feelings to Earl Brown they talked for a couple of hours after Elvis left Earl Brown sat down and wrote if I can dream and when Elvis heard it he said that is my closure for the special he proclaimed I'm never going to do another movie that I don't believe in I'm never going to sing another song I don't believe in I read that in a piece by rolling Stone interview with Earl Brown
Elvis left his soul on the stage with this song. It was written after the death of MLK and Senator Kennedy. No one's voice is as pure and powerful as Elvis. He sings rock, gospel, country western, blues etc. He can sing everything. He is definitely no gimmick just pure talent.
When Elvis performed this song , He had been warned not to do this song . But True to form , Elvis stood tall and did it because He wasn't going to be bullied . He did it in 1 take . Afterwards He reportedly curled in the fetal position and cried because this song was so emotional . And doing what He believed is exactly why Elvis Presley Is The "KING " Of Rock And Roll . Long Live The King.
@@michaelgreer9673 After Colonel Tom Parker heard the demo of the song sent by Earl Brown, he said: "This ain't Elvis' kind of song." Elvis was also there, and he countered Parker’s argument, then he pleaded: "Let me give it a shot, man." Earl Brown said while Elvis recorded the song, he saw tears rolling down the cheeks of the backing vocalists. One of them whispered to him: "Elvis never sung with so much emotion. Looks like he means every word." Presley associate Jerry Schilling has said, "I consider Elvis to be a writer on this song. That song was him expressing how he truly felt."
Here we are in Jan 2024 and the world is still dreaming Elvis. Hopefully, the human race will get our act together sooner rather then later. Like a lot of people say, he is missed very much!!.
As much as I love hearing Elvis sing Rock, I have always felt that when he sings Gospel is when he truly shines. His rendition of Amazing Grace makes me cry every time I hear it.
I believed that his manager, Colonel Tom Parker didn't want Elvis sing this song during his '68's Comeback Special. But it is his choice to sing it anyway as a tribute to MLK.
@@jaybuzz4071 Absolutely. His high school girlfriend says that Elvis and the kids in his church in Memphis would hustle over to a black church on Sunday evenings after their church was over because he loved the black music.
@@Mr5thWave Indeed. It was only when Colonel Parker and Parker’s management cronies developed that they, not Elvis, created some bad vibes. They were subtle most of the time but Elvis was unaware and maintained his compassionate and generous personality. He didn’t see colour, just people
Elvis was an incredible singer, a momma's boy and gentleman, and a great friend of the black community, the church and of the downtrodden. Please more Elvis!!
W. Earl Brown wrote this song after MLK and RFK. 1968 was a hard year in the US. Elvis cut this song in the studio and they almost had to have him lip sync for the tv special because of technical problems, but thank God he was able to do it live. He even gets the lyrics backward on the last verse, which only happens live. His vocals on this version are insane. When he cut the record, he had them turn out all the lights in the studio and he got in almost a fetal position and let it rip. God showed up in this man's voice.
I went to Graceland a few years ago. While standing at his grave, I looked around and almost every person standing there had tears in their eyes. Its amazing that 40 years after his death, people still had tears in their eyes. R.I.P. Elvis
He wasn't wrong because after singing this he died. But don't be sad because Elvis is in that "better place" which atheists speak of so fondly so he's finally living his dream of being ONE with non-gentiles, muslims, christians, vegans, meat eaters, agnostics, homosexuals, transgenders, feminists, bisexuals, non-binaries, republicans, scientists, lesbians, democrats, liberals and atheists.
This song first came out in December of 1968, shortly after MLK and Bobby Kennedy were assassinated, which Elvis was friends with both of them. He wrote this song one evening and performed it the following night. He was, and still is the King of Rock n Roll. He was raised in a very poor town in Mississippi, where he started with gospel music. Despite his popularity worldwide, he never forgot his roots. He was a very humble and generous man as well. He passed away in August of 1977. Now 55 years later and I'm hearing it played more and more and what a tribute to Elvis. I love to watch the reaction of people when they first hear this song because it's nothing you would expect.
Nobody will ever ever sing this song like he did. Belting it out and maintaining perfect pitch is incredible. God's gift to the world, like him or not.
In 1968, Elvis hadn't performed before a live audience in about 8 years (since he got out of the Army and did a TV special with Frank Sinatra). For those 8 years, he was making movies. So in 1968, he wanted to do live performances again, and to jump back into that, he did a Christmas special for NBC. Since then, it has become known as the "Comeback Special". It was dubbed as a "Christmas special" but he only sang one Christmas song in it, his old hit "Blue Christmas". At the very end of the show, this was the song that he performed, and it was done as a tribute to both Martian Luther King (who was murdered in Elvis' hometown of Memphis) and Robert Kennedy, who was running for President when he was murdered.
@@langdale55 Yep. Back in 1984, my local country station (WMZQ) had a contest (on August 16th). The winner would receive a VHS copy of the show. I won. The only problem was, we had a Beta machine, not a VHS. Luckily for us, the local video store had a Beta copy and swapped us for it. I still have it.
This was his most emotional performance. Next in line is his American Trilogy live in Hawaii 1973. Elvis changed Rock & Roll and Vegas forever. Thanks to Elvis more black musicians were brought into mainstream radio and tv. Elvis really didn't do one genre of music. He WAS a genre all his own. He was influenced by all types of music then he blended them all together in his own unique way to create a totally different sound and performance style. A black pastor who's church he attended in his younger years said the truest thing I've ever heard. "Elvis was a bundle of energy set to music and that echo will never die".
from what my mother told me his back up singers were in tears backstage during this performance because they could see hi pouring every thing he had in to it. Elvis gave what he had to the world.
They were preparing for the special and the producer decided to replace the last song of the night, which was a Christmas song. So the songwriter W. Earl Brown was given the task. Knowing that Elvis was a big fan of Martin Luther King and was still feeling the pain of King's assassination (he had also been greatly affected by the killings of John and Bobby Kennedy), Brown wrote this song and it was shown to Elvis. He found it so inspiring he said he would never again do a song or a movie he did not believe fully in. He did this as a tribute to all three and it's clear that he felt the losses and he believed in the message.
@@judytullos9889 I understand that he didn't care for the particular one that had been chosen. He thought some of the Christmas songs had been done to death already that year.
@@judytullos9889 Parker wanted the entire show to be like the old Bing Crosby, Parry Como type Christmas theme with family and all Christmas music. Steve Binder told Elvis he needed a show that would rebuild his career. Parker relented when he was told Elvis would sing Blue Christmas. When NBC rebroadcast the special in 1969, it replaced the performance of "Blue Christmas" with "Tiger Man." Some versions of the special released later include both songs. The 2004 DVD version only has Blue Christmas.
It truly is wonderful seeing young people discover the magic of Elvis. As for this performance every time I hear it, I get goosebumps. This just touches your soul and Elvis was the master of having the ability to do that. He did not just sing the notes he felt every single word and he had the greatest gift of being able to express that. Pure genius,Love the man
So true Helen. Our 11 and 12 year old 'wanted' to see the Elvis movie. They loved it and have been playing Elvis the day after. I find that fascinating...all this in 2022!
That song was composed by the team who oversaw 68 Comeback (watch it) who composed the song solely on their knowledge of Elvis's 33 years of his life up to the 68 Comeback show. People on here have endless footage, Songs, and Videos to enjoy for years to come. Elvis was 9 when I was born and I've been a fan all my life and I'm still enthralled by him.. He was only a professional for 23 years and he has endless entertainment left for us and for future generations,
Funny, I find that I automatically hit the “like” button before even listening because I know I will always like your reaction! If you want something different from Elvis, watch Jailhouse Rock!
I was 14 years old when Elvis died and I remember exactly where I was and what I was doing ...I was sitting on my couch watching 📺 when they broke in with the news...This man was so beloved by so many people and the day he passed I cried so uncontrollably as we had just lost one the greatest humans of all time...and oh so very talented and one fine ass looking man and you guys have only begun to uncover and enjoy this amazing talent
I was 12. Born and raised in Memphis but we were visiting my aunt, uncle and cousins in Columbia TN. I was in the living room and the news came on interrupting the show. I ran to the kitchen and told my mom, dad, aunt and uncle that Elvis died. Everybody ran to the TV. Nobody could believe it. I ended getting a job at The Mid-South Coliseum in Memphis in the 80s. We had people from all over the world stopping by asking if they could look at the building Elvis performed in. I gave several impromptu tours to people from Japan, Sweden, Germany, you name it. I took them backstage in the dressing rooms. There were times the stage was set up for other shows so they got to see the stage from where he performed.
It was just before my 16th birthday. I was on the floor watching tv. When they broke in and made the announcement I was hysterical. My mom cane to see what was wrong and then we were both sobbing hysterically. She was the one who had me listening to Elvis from birth. She also took me to see him in concert twice the year I turned 11.
Way to go guys. Elvis was a phenomenon even during his time. Oh to hear all these artists for the first time again. You haven’t begun to scratch the surface. Keep it up!
@@aziniowa My kids bought me an 8 CD collection of all his hits and live concert albums. Don't think there is a song I haven't heard including his gospel songs.
This song is a memorial to Dr. Martin Luther King. Like many of us who lived through that time ( I was 21 at the time, 1968) it really touched me to know how highly Elvis regarded Dr. King
Elvis is the real deal. Presley was an evolving artist over the decades. His singing and interpretation of the written word improved over time. Anything from the 68 Comeback is vocal gold. Good luck on your Elvis journey.
The king indeed ! Not only the King of music but also the King of Humanity ! He was the kindest ,generous most considerate man you could ever meet !Did you know he use to send a fleet of limo's around Memphis every week to take the older folk to the Doctors,shopping ,church etc and there are many many more stories like this of his kindness !
Elvis at his most raw and moving. I love even the slight cracking in his voice. While for many performers that would be a bad thing, here it's Elvis doing it in such a controlled and elegant way. When you consider when, why, and for who he's singing this, it's all the more moving. Thank you for this reaction video!
I'm a generation behind Elvis, but was exposed to him at an early age. Our family now has 5 generations of Elvis fans. There will never be anyone like him.
I love that you guys are doing reactions to older music. It’s so important that people can hear music throughout the ages, because-as you mentioned- younger people rarely even have heard of so many important people in the early years of musical records. This is a true gift to the world, because it’s not played to the mainstream public. You are very important in that you’re actually keeping these wonderful world alive. Music can connect and heal so many people. I sincerely thank you.
Laura, when I was on the bus to my A School for the Navy way back in 1988, I traveled with one of my company mates who asked me what I was listening to on my Walkman (remember those?) I told her Patsy Cline, who had the voice of an angel and the soul of one too, She had never heard or heard of Patsy, and I gave her my set to listen to the magic of that golden voice, She was so bowled over by Patsy that I had to let her keep my tape and buy another one at one of our rest stops, she fell wildly in love. I couldn't help remembering that time when you pointed out the value of older music. I like to think that maybe these two new listeners will love and appreciate The artistry of Elvis even though it's a faint echo now.
The idea that anyone would say anything that’s not supportive and appreciative to you boggles my mind. I love you’re willing to explain but never ever EVER apologize
Hello from Sweden 🇸🇪, Elvis was my mothers love, She died 7 years ago of lungcancer… but Maybe She have met him and dancing ro his songs…. She loved One Night with him so we had that song on her funeral ♥️
So sorry about your mother, Hanna. It's really interesting hearing that a kid from Tupelo and Memphis was able to honor your mother on the other side of the world in Sweden.
Impersonators make him seem like a cosplay character but he was a real person with gifts and demons. A dirt poor boy from the South that became a music icon. An imperfect human being that destroyed himself but left an indelible mark on the world.
Yes, he was an imperfect human which made him .... a human. Everyone knows his flaws, but his positive qualities were a huge heart and beautiful soul, an overwhelming spirit of generosity, an ability to connect with people who had nothing, because he grew up in an environment of poverty that people today couldn't even imagine. And he put all that heart and soul into his music, which is why it will always be loved.
The greatest vocal live performance ever laid down. I've listened to this thousands of times, never fails to raise the hairs on my neck. He recorded this in the early hours of the morning. There was no audience. Makes you think. It is such a shame that some people only see Elvis as he was towards the end. In his prime there never was such a magnetic performer who sang as good as he looked. That's why you don't see anyone impersonating him from this period. It's impossible. Same reason this record has never been covered by anyone else. It is and he was an impossible act to follow.
This what Baz really want that the new generation knows the humanity version of Elvis. Elvis never thought he will be remember for ever, love and honored for generation. ❤️❤️❤️
One of the most heartfelt and soulful performances in history. This song was written for MLK and released 2 months after his assassination. He only performed it live once if I'm not mistaken.
@Jared Warner When you slow the speed down watch his mouth at 2.21 and 2.24/2.25 there you can see it. Video : "If I Can Dream" (Black Leather Lip-Sync version) '68 CBS 50th Anniversary
So many great Elvis Presley songs to choose from including Heartbreak Hotel, It's now or never, American Trilogy, Wooden Heart, Teddy bear, Way down, Suspicious minds, Polk salad Annie, Jailhouse Rock, All Shook Up, That's alright and many many more
In a speech to young people, Dr. King said that we had to run if we couldn't fly! And if we couldn't run then we had to walk! And if we couldn't run then we had to crawl, but to keep moving! This was the inspiration for the lyrics, "While I can stand, while I can walk". I love you, Elvis for standing up for what was right.
" Saw the ghost of Elvis on Union Avenue followed him up to the gates of Graceland and I watched him walk right through" Marc Cohn " Walking in Memphis" R.I.P. Elvis Aaron Presley
Elvis was that good of a man. He did so much for so many people without any fanfare. He saw a person who needed a wheelchair one day, had one purchased and delivered to the person. He was an amazing humanitarian. He helped Danny Thomas build St. Jude’s.
Elvis’s music evolved just like we all evolve as we get older and change. He was also so versatile he could do any genre of music absolutely amazingly!
I ain't gonna lie, this performance is just as much for the eyes as the heart, soul and ears. He pours out his heart in this performance cuz he really meant it. Look up the story on what his backup singers said about this performance. ❣Good react.
I have been an Elvis fan for over 60 years. I watched the 68 special when it was on tv in the uk. This has to be one-of my very favourite songs by Elvis. Makes me tear up every time . Absolutely beautiful.
You're so right about Elvis's many layers -- but the there's no denying he was raised in abject poverty and had a huge heart, especially for people in need. And like the many comments say -- he loved and admired MLK, which is why he put every ounce of his heart and soul into this song.
I love the fact that this younger generation who has been overwhelmed by Rap now notices talent and a voice. Singers like Elvis are pure talent! Singing is harder to do than rap. You have to have a good ear and pitch, not to mention talent like ELVIS.
Elvis grew up in the church & specifically in a black church that was near his home which welcomed hiim & his mother.. gospel music was his absolute favorite & he had the largest collection of gospel music in america at one time... the network was opposed to his doing this song but he had so much respect & admiration for dr. king & took inspiration from him he stood his ground & basically said no song.. no special.. the infulence of his church upbringing is so up front in this performance & he literally did take us to church with this Thank you for sharing such an honest & heart touching reaction with us check out his performance of how great thou art the best video version is of him in a blue jumpsuit from 1972
Just wanted to say hi. I'm 68 years old from Toronto. Canada. I have to tell you, your my favourite TH-camrs. I absolutely love you guys. Wishing you all the best with the new precious angel coming to your family,and your beautiful girls. Lots of love xxoo
Elvis wrote this song overnight and performed it the next day during his 1968 comeback special. This song was written when Bobby Kennedy was shot but was dedicated to Dr Martin Luther King. There is no lip syncing here. This song was recorded live. I have listened to this song about 50 times but I can still feel and even see the emotion within him. May I suggest watching the 2022 film Elvis starting Austin Butler who does a remarkable job portraying Elvis.
HISTORY BEHIND SONG Many are not aware Elvis was asked by Sammy Davis to donate money to MLK fund. For the march from Selma to Montgomery. People don't think of it. But it takes a lot of money to coordinate a march like that. Food, Water, Fuel. Elvis and Sinatra each donated $50,000 in 1968. On the agreement it would be anonymous Elvis and Frank Sammy wanted no credit. MLK, was assinated 6 miles from Elvis's home. Elvis was DEEPLY wounded. He canceled the last song for this comeback special. And worked with song writers to come up with this song. They recorded it over night. Elvis ended his 1968 comeback special with this song. The emotion comes through. The message Elvis wished to convey also shines. Magnificent
Great reaction! Elvis was a loving generous human being. His people did not want him to do the song on his comeback special but he wanted to do it, because Martin Luther King Jr. And Robert Kennedy had been assinated. He hated injustice and inequality in any form. You should check out Elvis and the Black Community for some understanding of what he went through and who is was. Even his later stuff was beautiful and some of the most iconic performances ever. Listen to his live version of Bridge over troubled water. So happy to see the younger generations discovering the legendary Elvis. I am from the generation of Elvis after the army. In the 70s. When he died his death was mourned around the world. I cried for a whole week. Thank you for your reaction!
GOD DAMN!... Goosebumps... tingles & tears... Woah! ELVIS we Thankyou so much for what you gave us & continue to give us... So much joy brought to Millions for Decades... Thankyou... You Still are THE KING....
The last song from his 68 Comeback Special. Was supposed be another song. He changed it at the last moment and came out w this. Dedicated to Martin Luther king Jr Not only is he a Rock pioneer he also has a string of Gospel albums he put out
@@elvistcb3521 Race is the topic yahoo! Elvis was accused of being a racist, this proves he wasn't! It's is a tribute to MLK and Bobby Kennedy! Sometimes, racism NEEDS to be discussed, especially when someone is being falsely accused of being a racist! Don't like it, don't watch Elvis reaction videos, because many of them involve the accusations of racism!
@@evelynmabe7877 The original name of the documentary is, Elvis : The Echo never die. It had nothing to do with race. People have added clips & subtracted many more. Anyway..... It's a positive thing!👑👍
I’m convinced Elvis lived again through Austin. He wanted to experience the love of the world just one more time. Austin truly sounds exactly like Elvis and no one could chanel him including stage presence and mannerisms so perfectly without divine intervention! Incredible!!
I am glad you chose to react this as I suggested this following "In The Ghetto". This song was written following the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr & Senator Bobby Kennedy. The performance is from the 1968 Comeback Special.
Elvis would be dead 9 years after this live performance at 42. His death was a black day for the world of music as folks came from around the world for his funeral in Memphis. They still come to this day. This song was a tribute to MLK who was assassinated in 1968 Memphis, Elvis hometown. The bigger question is who was behind the MLK death...many think it was our gov as MLK was against the Vietnam War and very vocal about it. We think 2-3 troops killed a MONTH in Iraq is a war today. 350 DEAD bodies a WEEK (not including wounded) for Vietnam for 7 years straight. History has proven MLK to be right.
Elvis was so affected by the assassinations of Dr King and Bobby Kennedy. I think that’s why this song hits so differently. He gave everything he had to this song and the result was this tear jerking masterpiece.
I have always loved this song by Elvis, it is My Favorite all Time Elvis tune ... Truly an Amazing lyrics. This was recorded as part of his 68 Comeback Special. It was recorded between 27 - 30 June, 1968 to be broadcast on NBC on December 3rd, 1968. I was 12 Years Old, My Dad and I watched this Special and to this Day, I have it on DVD and I still watch this ... It was truly a Broadcast TV Major Event!!!
Great reaction! Thank you!! Singing from his heart and soul with his incomparable beautiful voice, that's Elvis! And there's more about him: He was a beautiful person inside and out. He doesn't deserve these decades of criticism and caricatures of himself. He was a wonderful, generous, helpful, loving person who gave a lot to the world. Most likely a thousand times more than any of his critics.
Thank you"Amber you are the first reactor that has put that together!!!! I was so disappointed. This song was done as a tribute to MLK JR. , Elvis was extremely upset when he was assassinated. Bobby Kennedy was also assassinated within months of each other in 1968. Check out the lyrics , the man who wrote it put in more references to MLK JR. He was blown away at Elvis' performance. You can tell he was holding back tears. After the performance Elvis went backstage and just lost it and let it out. He wanted to do his best to express his utmost respect and honor. I think in my opinion this was Elvis' best performance of his singing career!!!!!
I can’t listen to this without getting goosebumps!! I remember seeing him do this on the live special he did. He ended the tv special with this song. A timeless song !
Elvis went to a car dealership to buy another car. When he was going in, a young black girl was leaving and she was crying. Elvis asked her why. She said they wouldn't sell her one and she needed one so she could work and pay for college. Elvis took her back in and bought her a car. He told her to show up at Graceland the next day after class. He gave her a job. Her job was to sit at his kitchen table and do her homework. He paid for her college education.
Typical Elvis. He never forgot his extremely poor roots, and was generous to a fault with people, but not this very deserving young girl. I hope her life was happy and successful because of Elvis's generosity and genuine interest in her future.
He also went to buy 25 Cadillacs for his crew and family, and when he found out he wasn't getting any kind of discount from the dealer, he left and bought them from another dealer, who gave him one free. Such a righteous, cool cat
From what I understand, Elvis was broke when he passed away. Not because he blew his money on extravagant things for himself necessarily, though he did have all the bling before that was a thing, but in cases like you just mentioned where he was just so generous. He knew where he came from. He refused to talk politics with anyone because he was humble enough to realize he wasn't an expert, but through this song, he made a statement that no matter who you vote for, standing with racists is unacceptable and we all need to step up and treat each other better.
❤❤❤❤
This was actually a tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King! Shortly before Elvis filmed the '68 Comeback special Martin Luther king was assassinated and Elvis wanted to pay respect to him.
and Bobby Kennedy as well
They say that after the performance he broke down in tears back stage
He also never sang it live again! One and done!
Close, this was basically a twofer, Robert Kennedy was assassinated when this was filmed in June, Martin Luther King was assassinated in April. But this was bringing the King message front and center.
@@Vialle1014 Saud he laid on the floor in the fetal position and cried for hours! He was on the set of one of his movies when he found out, and filming had to stop for the day, he couldn't perform he was out of it!
Seeing people discover Elvis with fresh eyes and ears brings great joy to my heart.
agreed!
ditto
Great to see a younger generation understand why he is the King
Michael Shelton, vc disse tudo. Abraços do Brasil 🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷🇧🇷❣️😍
saaaame!
When he sings "where all my brothers walk hand in hand" I just bawl every time. Dr. King is in heaven smiling.
That part gives me goosebumps no matter how many times I hear it.
I love that part & "Please tell me why, oh why, that sun won't AAAAApear!!!" lol. Absolutely love it.
I've seen this video 100 plus and still I cry my goodness you feel his pain and despair.
RACISM!! HE WAS THE “BLACK”BELVIS AND OUR OWN PEOPLE AND DRUGS, JUST LIKE THE RST OF THESE ENTERTAINERS, RUIN3D HIM. HIM. HOLLYWOOD IS NOT ABOUT BLACK OR WHITE, IT IS ABOUT THE BUSINESS. THEY WILL USE WHOMEVER IS WILLING..UNDERSTAND!!
@@tahoe_1353“The dark” is my favorite part
No one mentions the fact that he could barely stand let alone talk at the end. He literally put everything he had and believed into that performance. He is sooo missed.
He wasn't quite about to die here. Had a few more healthy-ish years ahead of him before he bloated up in Vegas.
@@DJBenjoyer spot on.
@@DJBenjoyer exactly...this was 1968.. his health started deteriorating when Priscilla left him in 1972...that was the beginning of the end for him. I still cant stop myself from tearing up every time I listen to his music!!
The reason he could barely stand by the end of the song was not because of his health but rather because of the emotion he put into the song. He was overcome by the tumultuous times and the reason for the song…a tribute for Martin Luther King.
@@DJBenjoyer hey bud ...your not wrong BUT... " Not quite about to die ", a bit off. He just finished the movie contracts which was the beginning of the end. He never got the serious script he wanted to be a serious actor. They were paychecks is all. Thats when the numbing started. So, 1968' started his " comeback " as a serious artist. He didn't know if he'd be accepted. Was slated to be a Xmas show. All Xmas songs. The producer Steve Binder..? Begged E to do what they ultimately did. The convincing moment was Steve asked E to take a.walk outside. E replied " I can't, I'll be mobbed " They walked the streets. No mobs. Zeppelin, Stones, Beatles, Motown etc. were dominating music, not Elvis. Steve said " ya see Elvis, it's a comeback. No Xmas special yet... The rest is history. Btw. Almost 5 grueling years of 2-3 shows a day. Records still unmatched today.. then the decline from boredom defeating drugs. My opinion.
This was Elvis’s tribute to MLK, Jr after his assassination. That’s why the theme of “dream”, as MLK’s “I Have a Dream” message.
Also Robert Kennedy...
They say after this song he went into the dressing room lay on the floor and cried.
@@tomherd34 He did. I can confirm that to be true.
This song was written by Earl Brown Earl Brown himself said Elvis inspired this song when he came into his office because they he was looking for a song for the closure of the 1968 singer special AKA 68 comeback special it was just days after Robert f Kennedy was assassinated and a month after Martin Luther King was assassinated Elvis was so upset about both of the assassinations particularly Martin Luther King that he expressed his emotions and his feelings to Earl Brown they talked for a couple of hours after Elvis left Earl Brown sat down and wrote if I can dream and when Elvis heard it he said that is my closure for the special he proclaimed I'm never going to do another movie that I don't believe in I'm never going to sing another song I don't believe in I read that in a piece by rolling Stone interview with Earl Brown
Yes it was. He was very upset about it and could not believe it happened in Memphis.
50 years later people cannot get enough. Another reason he is King.
Elvis left his soul on the stage with this song. It was written after the death of MLK and Senator Kennedy.
No one's voice is as pure and powerful as Elvis. He sings rock, gospel, country western, blues etc. He can sing everything. He is definitely no gimmick just pure talent.
When Elvis performed this song , He had been warned not to do this song . But True to form , Elvis stood tall and did it because He wasn't going to be bullied . He did it in 1 take . Afterwards He reportedly curled in the fetal position and cried because this song was so emotional . And doing what He believed is exactly why Elvis Presley Is The "KING " Of Rock And Roll . Long Live The King.
Thank you Trudy
@@michaelgreer9673 you just made me sob...thanks dude it was good
@@michaelgreer9673 After Colonel Tom Parker heard the demo of the song sent by Earl Brown, he said: "This ain't Elvis' kind of song." Elvis was also there, and he countered Parker’s argument, then he pleaded: "Let me give it a shot, man." Earl Brown said while Elvis recorded the song, he saw tears rolling down the cheeks of the backing vocalists. One of them whispered to him: "Elvis never sung with so much emotion. Looks like he means every word." Presley associate Jerry Schilling has said, "I consider Elvis to be a writer on this song. That song was him expressing how he truly felt."
@Looneyintheboonieslisten to his last performance singing hurt...he defo could sing opera imo
Here we are in Jan 2024 and the world is still dreaming Elvis. Hopefully, the human race will get our act together sooner rather then later. Like a lot of people say, he is missed very much!!.
Elvis’ voice is unmistakeable. No one sounds like him. He is THE KING and we miss him every day.
Elvis said at a concert that he wasn't the King Jesus Christ is the king.
@@markii4685 And he was right. Jesus Christ is The King of the Universe. Elvis is the king of rock n roll. Merry Christmas.
@@Lakeshore14 So very right no one can replace that voice and he will always be the King of rock and roll and he knew who the king of life was.
Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous new year
This was Elvis tribute to Dr King after his death. It's said that Elvis broke down in tears after this performance....also never sang it live again.
As much as I love hearing Elvis sing Rock, I have always felt that when he sings Gospel is when he truly shines. His rendition of Amazing Grace makes me cry every time I hear it.
Crying in the Chapel ...you know he believed
His Ave Maria gets me every time too!! 🤗💗🤗
"You'll Never Walk Alone," "Who Am I?," "How Great Thou Art," "Peace In The Valley," "It Is No Secret."
Actually? He shines in every genre of music as his critically acclaimed recordings attest to. But yes, his gospel recordings are REVELATORY as well.
How Great Thou Art is epic too.
I believed that his manager, Colonel Tom Parker didn't want Elvis sing this song during his '68's Comeback Special. But it is his choice to sing it anyway as a tribute to MLK.
Right, I understand he was supposed to end the show with a Christmas song.
And Bobby Kennedy
@@phyllisb4634 yes, but Elvis changed it
Elvis rarely bucked Col Parker but he fought for this song like a tiger.
Agreed, it wasn't considered a money making song
He was a much deeper person than what the media portrayed him as, he cared deeply.
Imagine how even greater he would have been without the colonel influence
This was perhaps the greatest performance in music history. The words to the song are the key to healing the world's problems.
The best comment on this page. Absolutely true!
Yes yes yes
I agree 100%
Should be thought of these days definitely.
We need this song still today
Pure talent. No auto tune back in those days when singing live
This isn't unique. Plenty of bands and artists don't now either.
Good joke
He had more Talent in his little finger than other artists in their whole body
Unsuspecting fools
Jacko sings playback,lip sync,not elvis
He was brought up in a mixed race area and sung in the local gospel choir and it shows. Deserves the title the King
Yes and it really ticks me iff when folks try to label him as q racist!! Nothing could be further frim the truth!
@@jaybuzz4071 Absolutely. His high school girlfriend says that Elvis and the kids in his church in Memphis would hustle over to a black church on Sunday evenings after their church was over because he loved the black music.
@@Mr5thWave
Indeed. It was only when Colonel Parker and Parker’s management cronies developed that they, not Elvis, created some bad vibes. They were subtle most of the time but Elvis was unaware and maintained his compassionate and generous personality. He didn’t see colour, just people
@@Mr5thWave HE WAS THE MAN!! HEART OF GOLD!!
@@jaybuzz4071 it doesn't help to bring it up when it's not part of the conversation.
Elvis was an incredible singer, a momma's boy and gentleman, and a great friend of the black community, the church and of the downtrodden. Please more Elvis!!
Agree, excellent analysis.
1000% ON POINT!!! 💯💯❤
I keep hearing his mother smothered him a bit, I guess it makes sense when you remember Jesse.
W. Earl Brown wrote this song after MLK and RFK. 1968 was a hard year in the US. Elvis cut this song in the studio and they almost had to have him lip sync for the tv special because of technical problems, but thank God he was able to do it live. He even gets the lyrics backward on the last verse, which only happens live. His vocals on this version are insane. When he cut the record, he had them turn out all the lights in the studio and he got in almost a fetal position and let it rip. God showed up in this man's voice.
I went to Graceland a few years ago. While standing at his grave, I looked around and almost every person standing there had tears in their eyes. Its amazing that 40 years after his death, people still had tears in their eyes. R.I.P. Elvis
That is true, and no one can understand why he is still missed so much.
After singing this, Elvis said “Never again will I sing a song I don’t believe in.”
Perfect performance full stop.
Not true
After hearing it, that's exactly what he said.
He wasn't wrong because after singing this he died.
But don't be sad because Elvis is in that "better place" which atheists speak of so fondly so he's finally living his dream of being ONE with non-gentiles, muslims, christians, vegans, meat eaters, agnostics, homosexuals, transgenders, feminists, bisexuals, non-binaries, republicans, scientists, lesbians, democrats, liberals and atheists.
Unsuspecting fools
Go and change your diapers
One thing to remember about all this older music, there was no Auto Tune. This is his voice pure and clean.
They didn’t need it they could sing. No one better than this man.
Nobody can beat Elvis unsuspecting fools
Elvis was the most versatile singer
No idea about elvis, but a big mouth, hahahaha
You have no idea what lip sync is, hahahaha
This song first came out in December of 1968, shortly after MLK and Bobby Kennedy were assassinated, which Elvis was friends with both of them. He wrote this song one evening and performed it the following night. He was, and still is the King of Rock n Roll. He was raised in a very poor town in Mississippi, where he started with gospel music. Despite his popularity worldwide, he never forgot his roots. He was a very humble and generous man as well. He passed away in August of 1977. Now 55 years later and I'm hearing it played more and more and what a tribute to Elvis. I love to watch the reaction of people when they first hear this song because it's nothing you would expect.
Nobody will ever ever sing this song like he did. Belting it out and maintaining perfect pitch is incredible. God's gift to the world, like him or not.
He's putting that much into this song he almost staggers at 5:22! He gave it everything. If you don't get goosebumps hearing this you gotta be dead!
Amen sister!!
Shit jacko was am expert in lip sync,not elvis
Exactly
Elvis expert? I laugh my ass off, hahahaha
If you want to see what lip sync is, watch perfomences by shit Michael jackson, you clueless, hahahaha
In 1968, Elvis hadn't performed before a live audience in about 8 years (since he got out of the Army and did a TV special with Frank Sinatra). For those 8 years, he was making movies. So in 1968, he wanted to do live performances again, and to jump back into that, he did a Christmas special for NBC. Since then, it has become known as the "Comeback Special".
It was dubbed as a "Christmas special" but he only sang one Christmas song in it, his old hit "Blue Christmas".
At the very end of the show, this was the song that he performed, and it was done as a tribute to both Martian Luther King (who was murdered in Elvis' hometown of Memphis) and Robert Kennedy, who was running for President when he was murdered.
Elvis is from Tupelo Mississippi.
And his “gold jacket” benefit concert in 1961 to raise funds for the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor.
The entire show is still available on DVD if you want to watch in its entirety.
@@AClark-jx9zp But his hometown was where his ... home was. That was Memphis.
@@langdale55 Yep. Back in 1984, my local country station (WMZQ) had a contest (on August 16th). The winner would receive a VHS copy of the show. I won. The only problem was, we had a Beta machine, not a VHS. Luckily for us, the local video store had a Beta copy and swapped us for it. I still have it.
Doesn't matter if you've never heard Elvis, you've heard him now, open minds & hearts is all that matters
Just seeing you young people appreciate my era of music is really heartwarming
AMEN ❤ ALSO MY TIME😊WHAT AN ERA IT WAS.
I wish it was my era too😩 to be there while it all played out
That voice, that look, that man!!!❤️
This was his most emotional performance. Next in line is his American Trilogy live in Hawaii 1973.
Elvis changed Rock & Roll and Vegas forever. Thanks to Elvis more black musicians were brought into mainstream radio and tv. Elvis really didn't do one genre of music. He WAS a genre all his own. He was influenced by all types of music then he blended them all together in his own unique way to create a totally different sound and performance style.
A black pastor who's church he attended in his younger years said the truest thing I've ever heard. "Elvis was a bundle of energy set to music and that echo will never die".
from what my mother told me his back up singers were in tears backstage during this performance because they could see hi pouring every thing he had in to it. Elvis gave what he had to the world.
This was after Martin Luther King and Bobby Kennedy were assassinated. Elvis did not write this song. It was presented to him by the author to sing.
Elvis asked them to make a tribute/message song.
Mac Davis, Mac Davis, Mac Davis!
The song was written specifically for Elvis who was very upset by what happened to MLK and Bobby Kennedy.
@@Ntass1
What a dope! I was thinking of “In the Ghetto.” Mac Davis produced this but didn’t write it.
@@frankiebowie6174
Exactly!
Walter Earl Brown
wrote it and Mac Davis produced it.
A masterpiece without a doubt!
Still relevant today. One of his best performances. RIP Elvis.
My boyfriend favorite song! We play it on the jukebox all the time !
Was there ever a better moment than this when the singer really wanted to convey what he felt when singing every line? FROM THE HEART!!!
They were preparing for the special and the producer decided to replace the last song of the night, which was a Christmas song. So the songwriter W. Earl Brown was given the task. Knowing that Elvis was a big fan of Martin Luther King and was still feeling the pain of King's assassination (he had also been greatly affected by the killings of John and Bobby Kennedy), Brown wrote this song and it was shown to Elvis. He found it so inspiring he said he would never again do a song or a movie he did not believe fully in. He did this as a tribute to all three and it's clear that he felt the losses and he believed in the message.
Didn’t Elvis refuse to end with a Christmas song?
@@judytullos9889 I understand that he didn't care for the particular one that had been chosen. He thought some of the Christmas songs had been done to death already that year.
i notice the beginning of the song sounds kinda christmas like… almost like bait and switch while flipping off at the same time
@@judytullos9889 Parker wanted the entire show to be like the old Bing Crosby, Parry Como type Christmas theme with family and all Christmas music. Steve Binder told Elvis he needed a show that would rebuild his career. Parker relented when he was told Elvis would sing Blue Christmas. When NBC rebroadcast the special in 1969, it replaced the performance of "Blue Christmas" with "Tiger Man." Some versions of the special released later include both songs. The 2004 DVD version only has Blue Christmas.
Also remember they did the show they wanted to do
He sung this after the murder of MLK , it upset him so much
Elvis’ “Can’t Help Falling in Love” is a MUST!!
It truly is wonderful seeing young people discover the magic of Elvis. As for this performance every time I hear it, I get goosebumps. This just touches your soul and Elvis was the master of having the ability to do that. He did not just sing the notes he felt every single word and he had the greatest gift of being able to express that. Pure genius,Love the man
I have never once seen this without crying. 1968 and this message needed even more in 2022. When will the human race learn?
🧡🙏✌️🇺🇸
So true Helen. Our 11 and 12 year old 'wanted' to see the Elvis movie. They loved it and have been playing Elvis the day after. I find that fascinating...all this in 2022!
That song was composed by the team who oversaw 68 Comeback (watch it) who composed the song solely on their knowledge of Elvis's 33 years of his life up to the 68 Comeback show. People on here have endless footage, Songs, and Videos to enjoy for years to come. Elvis was 9 when I was born and I've been a fan all my life and I'm still enthralled by him.. He was only a professional for 23 years and he has endless entertainment left for us and for future generations,
I love that many new people are discovering how great Elvis really was. There’s a reason he’s still The King so many years later.
Funny, I find that I automatically hit the “like” button before even listening because I know I will always like your reaction! If you want something different from Elvis, watch Jailhouse Rock!
Yes, the clip from the movie by the same name!
I was 14 years old when Elvis died and I remember exactly where I was and what I was doing ...I was sitting on my couch watching 📺 when they broke in with the news...This man was so beloved by so many people and the day he passed I cried so uncontrollably as we had just lost one the greatest humans of all time...and oh so very talented and one fine ass looking man and you guys have only begun to uncover and enjoy this amazing talent
I was 12. Born and raised in Memphis but we were visiting my aunt, uncle and cousins in Columbia TN. I was in the living room and the news came on interrupting the show.
I ran to the kitchen and told my mom, dad, aunt and uncle that Elvis died. Everybody ran to the TV. Nobody could believe it.
I ended getting a job at The Mid-South Coliseum in Memphis in the 80s. We had people from all over the world stopping by asking if they could look at the building Elvis performed in. I gave several impromptu tours to people from Japan, Sweden, Germany, you name it. I took them backstage in the dressing rooms. There were times the stage was set up for other shows so they got to see the stage from where he performed.
I was 9 yrs old. Same thing - watching tv and broke in with his death. Told my mom. She thought I was lying - we were all shocked. Love from TN !
It was just before my 16th birthday. I was on the floor watching tv. When they broke in and made the announcement I was hysterical. My mom cane to see what was wrong and then we were both sobbing hysterically. She was the one who had me listening to Elvis from birth. She also took me to see him in concert twice the year I turned 11.
I was 7. Actually it was nine days before my 7th birthday.
I still remember it 😢
It was almost like all the air had just been sucked away! Overwhelming!!!
Way to go guys. Elvis was a phenomenon even during his time. Oh to hear all these artists for the first time again. You haven’t begun to scratch the surface. Keep it up!
Can't believe these people never heard this song by Elvis. Apparently, not music afficianados.
Rob, I was a huge Elvis fan when I was a kid and I had never heard this song until I saw it on a reaction channel. Elvis was my first crush. :)
Rob, really?
@@aziniowa My kids bought me an 8 CD collection of all his hits and live concert albums. Don't think there is a song I haven't heard including his gospel songs.
Elvis was a very good man. He helped everyone. He had a very big heart and was a very kind person. It's so sad he died so young.
This song is a memorial to Dr. Martin Luther King. Like many of us who lived through that time ( I was 21 at the time, 1968) it really touched me to know how highly Elvis regarded Dr. King
❤❤❤
Elvis is the real deal. Presley was an evolving artist over the decades. His singing and interpretation of the written word improved over time. Anything from the 68 Comeback is vocal gold. Good luck on your Elvis journey.
Take a look at the early Elvis singing "Don't Be Cruel"
My mother loved his gospel music. I grew up listening and watching THE KING.
Everytime I hear this song I get teary eyed. Truly amazing song from Elvis
The king indeed ! Not only the King of music but also the King of Humanity ! He was the kindest ,generous most considerate man you could ever meet !Did you know he use to send a fleet of limo's around Memphis every week to take the older folk to the Doctors,shopping ,church etc and there are many many more stories like this of his kindness !
Elvis at his most raw and moving. I love even the slight cracking in his voice. While for many performers that would be a bad thing, here it's Elvis doing it in such a controlled and elegant way.
When you consider when, why, and for who he's singing this, it's all the more moving. Thank you for this reaction video!
I'm a generation behind Elvis, but was exposed to him at an early age. Our family now has 5 generations of Elvis fans.
There will never be anyone like him.
I love that you guys are doing reactions to older music. It’s so important that people can hear music throughout the ages, because-as you mentioned- younger people rarely even have heard of so many important people in the early years of musical records. This is a true gift to the world, because it’s not played to the mainstream public. You are very important in that you’re actually keeping these wonderful world alive. Music can connect and heal so many people. I sincerely thank you.
Laura, when I was on the bus to my A School for the Navy way back in 1988, I traveled with one of my company mates who asked me what I was listening to on my Walkman (remember those?) I told her Patsy Cline, who had the voice of an angel and the soul of one too, She had never heard or heard of Patsy, and I gave her my set to listen to the magic of that golden voice, She was so bowled over by Patsy that I had to let her keep my tape and buy another one at one of our rest stops, she fell wildly in love. I couldn't help remembering that time when you pointed out the value of older music. I like to think that maybe these two new listeners will love and appreciate The artistry of Elvis even though it's a faint echo now.
Elvis's voice will live forever!!!! Elvis is alive as long as channel's like yours keeps him relevant.
Elvis sang anything. He sang any genre, even opera. He was the king. Yes and the king of kindness too.
The idea that anyone would say anything that’s not supportive and appreciative to you boggles my mind. I love you’re willing to explain but never ever EVER apologize
Hello from Sweden 🇸🇪, Elvis was my mothers love, She died 7 years ago of lungcancer… but Maybe She have met him and dancing ro his songs…. She loved One Night with him so we had that song on her funeral ♥️
So sorry about your mother, Hanna. It's really interesting hearing that a kid from Tupelo and Memphis was able to honor your mother on the other side of the world in Sweden.
@@umbluegray1 Thank You ♥️
I hope your mother is at peace with Elvis,
Impersonators make him seem like a cosplay character but he was a real person with gifts and demons. A dirt poor boy from the South that became a music icon. An imperfect human being that destroyed himself but left an indelible mark on the world.
Yes, his fame and the prescription drugs to cope with it, killed him at the age of 42.
So so very sad ❤
Just like MJ and witney...it's a shame :-(
He was frightened of not being remembered, if only he'd known 😪
He also had some very real medical problems. I think sometimes that's overlooked.
Yes, he was an imperfect human which made him .... a human. Everyone knows his flaws, but his positive qualities were a huge heart and beautiful soul, an overwhelming spirit of generosity, an ability to connect with people who had nothing, because he grew up in an environment of poverty that people today couldn't even imagine. And he put all that heart and soul into his music, which is why it will always be loved.
The greatest vocal live performance ever laid down. I've listened to this thousands of times, never fails to raise the hairs on my neck. He recorded this in the early hours of the morning. There was no audience. Makes you think. It is such a shame that some people only see Elvis as he was towards the end. In his prime there never was such a magnetic performer who sang as good as he looked. That's why you don't see anyone impersonating him from this period. It's impossible. Same reason this record has never been covered by anyone else. It is and he was an impossible act to follow.
One of my first memories was getting to stay up the watch Elvis live from Hawaii on my birthday
This what Baz really want that the new generation knows the humanity version of Elvis. Elvis never thought he will be remember for ever, love and honored for generation. ❤️❤️❤️
One of the most heartfelt and soulful performances in history. This song was written for MLK and released 2 months after his assassination. He only performed it live once if I'm not mistaken.
He sang it again live in a black leather outfit in 1968
@@donnedaestes4579
No, this version wasn't live.
It was the first and the last time he lip synced a song.
@Jared Warner
When you slow the speed down watch his mouth at 2.21 and 2.24/2.25 there you can see it.
Video : "If I Can Dream"
(Black Leather Lip-Sync version)
'68 CBS 50th Anniversary
@@alameas6358
You are right, a friend of mine knew one of the technicans. He told him that he lip synced this version.
So many great Elvis Presley songs to choose from including Heartbreak Hotel, It's now or never, American Trilogy, Wooden Heart, Teddy bear, Way down, Suspicious minds, Polk salad Annie, Jailhouse Rock, All Shook Up, That's alright and many many more
Amber, you're right. Elvis was completely authentic. His early Rock n Roll hits were stunning and he was a great Gospel singer.
In a speech to young people, Dr. King said that we had to run if we couldn't fly! And if we couldn't run then we had to walk! And if we couldn't run then we had to crawl, but to keep moving! This was the inspiration for the lyrics, "While I can stand, while I can walk". I love you, Elvis for standing up for what was right.
The one and only the King! Elvis is the greatest singer ever! Goosebumps!
" Saw the ghost of Elvis
on Union Avenue
followed him up to the gates of Graceland
and I watched him walk right through"
Marc Cohn " Walking in Memphis"
R.I.P. Elvis Aaron Presley
Elvis was that good of a man. He did so much for so many people without any fanfare. He saw a person who needed a wheelchair one day, had one purchased and delivered to the person. He was an amazing humanitarian. He helped Danny Thomas build St. Jude’s.
Elvis’s music evolved just like we all evolve as we get older and change. He was also so versatile he could do any genre of music absolutely amazingly!
My absolute favorite even back then. I didn’t know until fairly recently how important this song was to Elvis as well. I love it!
I ain't gonna lie, this performance is just as much for the eyes as the heart, soul and ears. He pours out his heart in this performance cuz he really meant it. Look up the story on what his backup singers said about this performance. ❣Good react.
Love love love this song. I play this a lot, full blast… American trilogy is another great one.
I have been an Elvis fan for over 60 years. I watched the 68 special when it was on tv in the uk. This has to be one-of my very favourite songs by Elvis. Makes me tear up every time . Absolutely beautiful.
You're so right about Elvis's many layers -- but the there's no denying he was raised in abject poverty
and had a huge heart, especially for people in need. And like the many comments say -- he loved and admired MLK, which is why he put every ounce of his heart and soul into this song.
I love the fact that this younger generation who has been overwhelmed by Rap now notices talent and a voice. Singers like Elvis are pure talent! Singing is harder to do than rap. You have to have a good ear and pitch, not to mention talent like ELVIS.
Elvis grew up in the church & specifically in a black church that was near his home which welcomed hiim & his mother..
gospel music was his absolute favorite & he had the largest collection of gospel music in america at one time...
the network was opposed to his doing this song but he had so much respect & admiration for dr. king & took inspiration from him he stood his ground & basically said no song.. no special..
the infulence of his church upbringing is so up front in this performance & he literally did take us to church with this
Thank you for sharing such an honest & heart touching reaction with us
check out his performance of how great thou art the best video version is of him in a blue jumpsuit from 1972
We all are bawling our eyes out 😭 I love 💕 Elvis and have my whole life.
Just wanted to say hi. I'm 68 years old from Toronto. Canada. I have to tell you, your my favourite TH-camrs. I absolutely love you guys. Wishing you all the best with the new precious angel coming to your family,and your beautiful girls. Lots of love xxoo
If only people would heed his words and actually take them on board. Sigh. 😔
you mean the song writers words.
Elvis never wrote it.
@@bwana-ma-coo-bah425 The song writer wrote it specifically for Elvis and his views on race relations, and MLK, R. Kenedeys recent assasinations.
@@stevemurray7020 did you read what I wrote?
@@bwana-ma-coo-bah425 OK heed 'the' words
most have...
Elvis wrote this song overnight and performed it the next day during his 1968 comeback special. This song was written when Bobby Kennedy was shot but was dedicated to Dr Martin Luther King. There is no lip syncing here. This song was recorded live. I have listened to this song about 50 times but I can still feel and even see the emotion within him. May I suggest watching the 2022 film Elvis starting Austin Butler who does a remarkable job portraying Elvis.
Walter Earl Brown wrote this....so...no.
Thanks for the correction.
HISTORY BEHIND SONG
Many are not aware Elvis was asked by Sammy Davis to donate money to MLK fund. For the march from Selma to Montgomery. People don't think of it. But it takes a lot of money to coordinate a march like that.
Food, Water, Fuel.
Elvis and Sinatra each donated $50,000 in 1968.
On the agreement it would be anonymous Elvis and Frank Sammy wanted no credit.
MLK, was assinated 6 miles from Elvis's home. Elvis was DEEPLY wounded.
He canceled the last song for this comeback special. And worked with song writers to come up with this song.
They recorded it over night.
Elvis ended his 1968 comeback special with this song.
The emotion comes through. The message Elvis wished to convey also shines.
Magnificent
Elvis had the Best voice I have ever heard!!!! he died when I was 6 on August 16th 1977. :(
I was five, in Alabama. Everybody on my street - man, woman, and child - cried that day.
Yes sir, I was 7. But I had never heard this song before this night in July 2022.
Great reaction! Elvis was a loving generous human being. His people did not want him to do the song on his comeback special but he wanted to do it, because Martin Luther King Jr. And Robert Kennedy had been assinated. He hated injustice and inequality in any form. You should check out Elvis and the Black Community for some understanding of what he went through and who is was. Even his later stuff was beautiful and some of the most iconic performances ever. Listen to his live version of Bridge over troubled water. So happy to see the younger generations discovering the legendary Elvis. I am from the generation of Elvis after the army. In the 70s. When he died his death was mourned around the world. I cried for a whole week. Thank you for your reaction!
His gospel music is great. His rendition of Peace in the Valley is jaw dropping. I’m not a Christian anymore but that song gets me.
I LOVE Elvis singing Peace In The Valley...SO good!
You may be closer to the Kingdom than you think, dear one! 😇😍
I pray that you come back. :-)
Aheist power! Fk Jesus !
Come back. There is nowhere better to be than with Jesus!
Elvis will never be forgotten. The greatest singer to walk the earth.
GOD DAMN!... Goosebumps... tingles & tears... Woah! ELVIS we Thankyou so much for what you gave us & continue to give us... So much joy brought to Millions for Decades... Thankyou... You Still are THE KING....
Please do not use the Lord's name in vain. And there was only one King and that would be Jesus Christ.
The last song from his 68 Comeback Special. Was supposed be another song. He changed it at the last moment and came out w this. Dedicated to Martin Luther king Jr
Not only is he a Rock pioneer he also has a string of Gospel albums he put out
Check out “Elvis and the Black Community- the echo will never die”. It’s a short bio.
Yes yes yes. Everything you wanted to know about Elvis! Please please please play!
Stop talking about race!
You think Elvis sat around, thinking about race every day? No fuckin' way!!!
@@elvistcb3521 Race is the topic yahoo! Elvis was accused of being a racist, this proves he wasn't! It's is a tribute to MLK and Bobby Kennedy! Sometimes, racism NEEDS to be discussed, especially when someone is being falsely accused of being a racist! Don't like it, don't watch Elvis reaction videos, because many of them involve the accusations of racism!
@@evelynmabe7877 The original name of the documentary is, Elvis : The Echo never die. It had nothing to do with race. People have added clips & subtracted many more. Anyway..... It's a positive thing!👑👍
Elvis was pure talent,….. pure and he loved EVERY ONE.
A generous and kind soul who gave all of himself.
I grew up on Elvis so it amazes me, because he was so big, that everyone doesn't know him. Thanks for playing this video.
I’m convinced Elvis lived again through Austin. He wanted to experience the love of the world just one more time. Austin truly sounds exactly like Elvis and no one could chanel him including stage presence and mannerisms so perfectly without divine intervention! Incredible!!
I am glad you chose to react this as I suggested this following "In The Ghetto". This song was written following the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr & Senator Bobby Kennedy.
The performance is from the 1968 Comeback Special.
Elvis would be dead 9 years after this live performance at 42. His death was a black day for the world of music as folks came from around the world for his funeral in Memphis. They still come to this day. This song was a tribute to MLK who was assassinated in 1968 Memphis, Elvis hometown. The bigger question is who was behind the MLK death...many think it was our gov as MLK was against the Vietnam War and very vocal about it. We think 2-3 troops killed a MONTH in Iraq is a war today. 350 DEAD bodies a WEEK (not including wounded) for Vietnam for 7 years straight. History has proven MLK to be right.
Sad day. He died on my birthday. I remember where I was and how the household reacted. I’m so glad we still can listen to Elvis anytime anywhere.
Elvis was a one of a kind artist. No one else has a voice like that.
the '68 special - Elvis is everything, such an incredible voice
Elvis was so affected by the assassinations of Dr King and Bobby Kennedy. I think that’s why this song hits so differently. He gave everything he had to this song and the result was this tear jerking masterpiece.
I have always loved this song by Elvis, it is My Favorite all Time Elvis tune ... Truly an Amazing lyrics. This was recorded as part of his 68 Comeback Special. It was recorded between 27 - 30 June, 1968 to be broadcast on NBC on December 3rd, 1968. I was 12 Years Old, My Dad and I watched this Special and to this Day, I have it on DVD and I still watch this ... It was truly a Broadcast TV Major Event!!!
Great reaction! Thank you!! Singing from his heart and soul with his incomparable beautiful voice, that's Elvis! And there's more about him: He was a beautiful person inside and out. He doesn't deserve these decades of criticism and caricatures of himself. He was a wonderful, generous, helpful, loving person who gave a lot to the world. Most likely a thousand times more than any of his critics.
Love your reaction to this! Huge fan of Elvis. Please listen to " Tryin to get to you" from The 68 Comeback Special. TY
The whole 68 comeback special was fire. His looks, the leather suit, his moves , it was all too hot 🔥🔥☮️♥️
Thank you"Amber you are the first reactor that has put that together!!!! I was so disappointed. This song was done as a tribute to MLK JR. , Elvis was extremely upset when he was assassinated.
Bobby Kennedy was also assassinated within months of each other in 1968. Check out the lyrics , the man who wrote it put in more references to MLK JR. He was blown away at Elvis' performance. You can tell he was holding back tears. After the performance Elvis went backstage and just lost it and let it out. He wanted to do his best to express his utmost respect and honor. I think in my opinion this was Elvis' best performance of his singing career!!!!!
I can’t listen to this without getting goosebumps!! I remember seeing him do this on the live special he did. He ended the tv special with this song. A timeless song !