Elvis had many famous moments in his storied career. The ’68 Comeback Special is one of those classic Elvis performances. Originally titled, ‘Singer Presents…ELVIS’ the special aired on Dec. 3rd, 1968.
Elvis hadn’t performed in public since 1961 and hadn’t appeared on television since 1960. The performance featured ‘sit-down’ songs and ‘stand-up’ songs. The rendition of ‘Love Me’ was a ‘sit-down’ segment.
Elvis dressed in full black leather with matching leather bracelets. Of course, his chest is exposed. He sits in a circle, surrounded by other guitarists, strumming his acoustic guitar in rhythm.
Elvis was paired with some of his original musicians from the 50s. His band members are dressed in red suits. The band also provides some harmony vocals to Elvis’ lead.
Elvis sings ‘Love Me’ after a rough start, where he clears his throat a bit and smiles. He starts the song, then restarts it, easing into the low note intro. Later in the song, Elvis grabs his throat as if choking during a higher music note. He even makes an audible sound like a choke which gets a laugh from the audience.
He sings into a microphone on a stand in front of him. He makes great facial expressions throughout the song. Elvis really was a showman, especially in how he interacted with his band and the crowd.
The special was the most-viewed television program in America the week it aired and firmly re-established Elvis as a significant musical force. His wife, Priscilla Presley, said, ‘I think the ’68 Special gave him the confidence to get on the road again, knowing that people accepted him.’
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