Hidden Symbolism in "Unchained Melody" 1977 CBS Special "Elvis in Concert"

[howardrobardhughes]

In a previous thread..I discussed the perfection of ALOHA...
Now I would like to open for discussion the impact of Elvis' performance of "Unchained Melody" in the CBS Special..1977
*I believe that for a brief moment,starting right after Elvis says to Charlie "Help me with it...." we see the true Elvis Presley..
maybe the ONLY time ever captured on film with such clarity..
Charlie tries to hide his concern...you can see his nervous facial expressions..
yet....
As the camera zooms in on Elvis' swollen face,sweat pouring off him into the microphone...he manages to reach down in the depths of his being..totally engulfed in the song..and the performance...
beating the odds...one last time...pulling off a BRILLIANT rendition of the song..
I have watched this clip 100's of times..and I'm speechless every time I see it..
and the look on his face after the last note says it all...just like the fist punch in ALOHA..
"I did it"
to me...Aloha was Elvis in perfection..
"Unchained Melody" CBS SPECIAL was the crowning jewel for a dying man.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3hUkhF2h--s

[rick]

Well written. It's a stunning performance, one that actually makes me cry.

[Lonniebealestreet]

Agreed.

To me it's unfathomable how that performance was not included in the special. I've heard that the CBS execs thought the closeups of him there were very unflattering, but actually I think he looks quite good in profile there, better than in many other instances in the special. And even if that were true, it should have been included because it was such a moving performance. And beyond that, why not put it on the album?

Great summary of the performance. When I first watched it I observed this, and I've heard others say almost the same thing...but when he--as you say--reaches down in the depths of his being, there was just no stopping his soul, the pure Elvis, from shining through. It was like he broke through all the health problems, the medication, and anything else that might have hindered him vocally or otherwise, and Elvis the ultimate performer was there, singing like there was no tomorrow...which was more or less the case.

[Joe Car]

Well said Howard, I also thought it was as brilliant and gutsy a performance as you'll ever see. Welcome to the board btw!

[Elena/The Russian EP Fan Club]

I'm with you, Howard. Absolutely.

And I agree with Rick. This great performance makes me cry...

[NightRider]

Very well written ...its a personal favourite of mine....one which i watch and indeed just listen too one hell of a lot.
You have descibed it just as i feel it...an absolute stunner of a performance from Elvis....giving it his all to the very end.

There are alot of people put off by Elvis in parts of '76 and most of '77. I, on the other hand have a soft spot for it. It was part of Elvis' life and one that is all but ignored by EPE and more so BMG. Such a shame (n)

[Albert]

It has been written even in newspapers in 1976/1977 that the Elvis Presley show during those years wasn't fantastic. He relied on the love of the audience and the knowledge that they take anything for granted from the King ("the only thing I need to do is show up and do 'well, well, well'..."). Many shows during those two years were not much more than a few very bad performances of old classics, long, long introductions of the band and much attention of Elvis to the first rows.

But even in those negative newspaper reports (that were -in my opinion- closer to reality than the 'good show, good show' remarks from the Memphis Maffia), they were amazed how extremely good Elvis was during a few gospels and ballads. How is it possible that a man who does a show on the automatic pilot, comes suddenly alive while singing songs like Hurt, Unchained Melody or How Great Thou Art?

It think this has to do with the "It's very hard to live up to an image" remark from Elvis in 1972. The whole show was a prison of the image of Elvis. An image that he didn't know to escape from. But with songs like these he escaped that prison and showed the audience a rare glimps at his soul...

[Cherokee]

It has been written even in newspapers in 1976/1977 that the Elvis Presley show during those years wasn't fantastic. He relied on the love of the audience and the knowledge that they take anything for granted from the King ("the only thing I need to do is show up and do 'well, well, well'..."). Many shows during those two years were not much more than a few very bad performances of old classics, long, long introductions of the band and much attention of Elvis to the first rows.

But even in those negative newspaper reports (that were -in my opinion- closer to reality than the 'good show, good show' remarks from the Memphis Maffia), they were amazed how extremely good Elvis was during a few gospels and ballads. How is it possible that a man who does a show on the automatic pilot, comes suddenly alive while singing songs like Hurt, Unchained Melody or How Great Thou Art?

It think this has to do with the "It's very hard to live up to an image" remark from Elvis in 1972. The whole show was a prison of the image of Elvis. An image that he didn't know to escape from. But with songs like these he escaped the prison and showed to audience a rare glimps at his soul...

Good analysis, especially the last line. (y)

[P.S. Annie]

Very well said Howard and Bobby. The performance brings tears in my eyes but also the way you described it.

[howardrobardhughes]

I think this photo is appropriate in this thread....

http://www.geocities.com/jackdawson57/pics/KCRapidcityunchained.jpg

TCB...
Wade (HRH )

[Elvis' Babe]

this was his ultimate farewell...he was saying goodbye from his soul to the world and saying he was going home--to god.

"i'll be coming home...wait for meeee!"

i mean ive heard the righteous brothers version so many times, and the meaning is COMPLETELY different. the righteous brothers have a love song, elvis has a song where he is saying goodbye.

this one makes me cry buckets.

his soul is so bright and beautiful, that maybe he doesnt appear model-beautiful, but its a beauty much greater than that. its his inner beauty shining outward...i mean you feel that song when he sings it...

and the perfection is when he smiles at charlie then the camera...i mean you see this bright twinkling smile...its just incredible.

[richardo316]

In a previous thread..I discussed the perfection of ALOHA...
Now I would like to open for discussion the impact of Elvis' performance of "Unchained Melody" in the CBS Special..1977
*I believe that for a brief moment,starting right after Elvis says to Charlie "Help me with it...." we see the true Elvis Presley..
maybe the ONLY time ever captured on film with such clarity..
Charlie tries to hide his concern...you can see his nervous facial expressions..
yet....
As the camera zooms in on Elvis' swollen face,sweat pouring off him into the microphone...he manages to reach down in the depths of his being..totally engulfed in the song..and the performance...
beating the odds...one last time...pulling off a BRILLIANT rendition of the song..
I have watched this clip 100's of times..and I'm speechless every time I see it..
and the look on his face after the last note says it all...just like the fist punch in ALOHA..
"I did it"
to me...Aloha was Elvis in perfection..
"Unchained Melody" CBS SPECIAL was the crowning jewel for a dying man.i have to agree, i think next to my way at the same show it is probably the best performance he gave that evening.

[simmerrocks]

the best summary i have ever read about that performance. he truly was reaching for everything he had.... and achived it! anyone who could look at that footage elvis fan or not and not be moved by it, does not have any emotions. to me that performance is his swan song. and it is a disgrace that it was cut from the final edit of the cbs special. i guess they wanted more time for the interviews with the fans!!! :angry: :angry: . have a great weekend, simmerrocks (y)

[sjaakslinger]

Very striking remarks here...

In my "early" Elvis-fan-period (not too long ago btw..) I already thought of this moment (Elvis doing Unchained Melody in the CBS special) as his last goodbye....just got that feeling too!

Adios.

[Menwithbrokenhearts]

I know I am late, late, late on this thread. But, i just watched this show and along with My Way and How Great Thou ARt, this performance is worth owning this show for. Great analysis from everyone on this thread and I couldn't agree more! His interpretation of Unchained Melody is heart wrenching and beautiful at the same time. A thing to behold, and a fitting swan song and goodbye to all us fans. He had every right to smile and be proud of it! I can only imagine that those times were few and far between during that last year. Thank you Elvis!!!:notworthy

[orwell1976]

Although I wouldn't call it a hidden symbolism Elvis' performance of Unchained Melody is still great. His body wasn't working well, but his voice was still intact. During the first lines he seems to be pretty out of breath, but then he showed that he could still do it. When he came to the line "...time goes by so slowly..." he just looked to Charlie and said "Help me with it". But no one knows how Elvis meant that comment, if it was serious or just one of his many remarks he made during his shows.

[Diane]

I'm late on this too but that particular scene was the one that did me in. Didn't he also look at Charlie at the end as if to say "I made it through and it sounded good didn't it?" It's been a while since I've looked at this video as I can't take it very often but yes I agree, it was a wonderful swan song and he should be remembered for all he put into it and showed the world he was still able to come through.

[amzietamzie]

I agree with what everyone has said...

I weep buckets when I watch this video. There are no words to explain how I feel when I watch it.

Elvis depended on his fans in those last few years and in the CBS concert, although I do feel sadness in seeing Elvis so unwell, I feel compelled to enjoy the concert, as he would have wanted. He did it for us so I feel we should appreciate what he did and how he did it, even if it is upsetting. He was STILL BEAUTIFUL, LOVELY and TALENTED and he was still the KING. Nothing can take that away from him.

Unchained Melody, to me, is an emblem of Elvis' talent, warmth and beauty.

My heart aches to see him looking so unwell, yet his voice is so powerful and beautiful that it completely takes me over. The way he plays the piano and sings... it's like he's the only person in the world. He's taken into a whole world of his own and the only time we see him pulled back into reality is when he says "Help me with it"- he seems unsure.

When he smiles at us and Charlie, I simply cannot explain what that means. When he smiles at the camera, I literally collapse. It's such a genuine, true and happy smile. He should be happy with his song and the way he's singing it. The smile with Charlie, however, is so much more than that. You're right- that's the real, true Elvis.

He completely loses himself in the song and when he reaches that note... that high note that he was so scared about missing... I feel such pride and then I start sobbing again! It's just too beautitful.

I've shown my non-Elvis-fan friends this video and they had to stifle back tears. His voice is just... it's just... stunning, wonderful, beautiful, amazing... I could go on and on. And he is still beautiful. He was right to the end. Even when he wasn't looking his best, he still had that look. A twinkle in his eye and a genuine, true, warm style. His beauty innate in his inside emerged on his outer appearence so that he was gorgeous every day, all day.

The part that I love the most is when he takes that huge, deep breath and holds that beautful note ("still more, iiiiii... need your love" bit). I also love the "yep" he says at the end- he's so proud! The smiles through the song are also out of this world. You're right- at the end of the song it is an "aloha punch" moment.

When I first saw this video, I was a beginner Elvis fan. At first I was a bit wary of it but now I love it so much- it's one of my favourite perfomances. Although, as it makes me so emotional, and has such great meaning and feeling behind it, I don't watch it as much as others- that is not to say it is not worthy.

In this performance I think we see a glimpse into Elvis' soul. You're right... it's like his goodbye. I think it is fitting that this perfomance was made right at the end- it just proves that he was the eternal King and his talent was out of this world- right to his last breath.

[Lisarose]

Like Diane, I can't watch this video too often, it brings me to tears, it hurts my heart, but I can't stay away from it either, it is BRILLIANT! A rainbow of emotions.

[bogarcon]

hum..it makes the world realize that Elvis Presley was just a normal human being like the others. Very sad but now it is part of the history and the legend.
Have a nice day, Bogarcon

[tjs]

I've been watching these concerts for the last few days and Elvis was great...hurting...impaired...it doesn't matter he was great through it all.

I think his versions of CC Rider, and I Got a Woman and That's All Right were very strong as well....had he lived I got the feeling he was leaning towards playing the guitar more--almost more of an "unplugged" feel as we call it now.

BTW...I blieve what he says to himself at the end of Unchained is ..."Not bad"

[thehillbillycat]

I agree with the comment of Unchained Medley. I feel that this is Elvis saying goodbye to the fans. But I also feel that he got into the bounds of other music with that song. It feels more like Opera. Hitting high notes during that song and playing the piano. It feels that this isn't just Elvis that we have seen before. My opinion that version was the best. The others are great too but this version seem to be more powerful and meaning to it.

[Joe Car]

It really was an incredible performance. Anybody who doesn't appreciate that clip, has ice in their veins.

[srj1967]

Yes, Unchained Melody was the best thing about Elvis In Concert. I am an athiest, but even I can see he is clearly singing from his very soul.

I always thought this should've been included in the ELVIS PRESLEY IN CONCERT tour with the TCB Band. Sure, EPE tends to gloss over the last couple of years of Elvis' life, but there is something about that performance.

Yes, he was fat, stoned out of his mind and weeks from death ... but the voice!! That's what the world remembers about Elvis: his singing voice. And that performance transcends everything else I think.

Magnificent! (y)

[poormansgold]

I watch the my DVD I got of this show, It's hard to watch it, Elvis was end of that Tour, You been tried do 7 nights in row Doing Singing, That's hard on A person, One Is ill He was, we never know that He had cancer.. I know one thing, he loves to sing for this Fans.
He was A normal human Being, that's Alot us forget He was. THe Unchained
Melody wasn't his best that night , He didn't give up on the song, I give Him A for Trying.
I see strong and big Men In my life, falling From Been ill one for 10 years and another few years, they die few months part.
I cry liked A baby , I never Cried since like that.
WE needed to remember Him He was not He did That Night,
Tom

[Larry Dickman]

In a previous thread..I discussed the perfection of ALOHA...
Now I would like to open for discussion the impact of Elvis' performance of "Unchained Melody" in the CBS Special..1977
*I believe that for a brief moment,starting right after Elvis says to Charlie "Help me with it...." we see the true Elvis Presley..
maybe the ONLY time ever captured on film with such clarity..
Charlie tries to hide his concern...you can see his nervous facial expressions..
yet....
As the camera zooms in on Elvis' swollen face,sweat pouring off him into the microphone...he manages to reach down in the depths of his being..totally engulfed in the song..and the performance...
beating the odds...one last time...pulling off a BRILLIANT rendition of the song..
I have watched this clip 100's of times..and I'm speechless every time I see it..
and the look on his face after the last note says it all...just like the fist punch in ALOHA..
"I did it"
to me...Aloha was Elvis in perfection..
"Unchained Melody" CBS SPECIAL was the crowning jewel for a dying man.

Excellent post Mr Hughes.

I agree with every word.....only wish I could have articulated that well.

What about the quip to Charlie at the end, "not bad, hey?".....so modest and such an understatement.

[Unchained Melody]

It's definitley the best performance from EIC and probably my favorite version of the song. Got it in great pic qaulity on the Elvis The Great Performances Vol 2 I think...I always get emotional when watching it...espcially at the end "...I neeed youur loove...'' so amazing to watch !!!! :notworthy :notworthy

[moody_ blue]

he was more than normal
he was/ is special
a normal human bein have not
so many fans all over the world
and everytime when i see unchained
melody feel in tear in my eyes
beautiul performances

[T_J]

I agree with the comment of Unchained Medley. I feel that this is Elvis saying goodbye to the fans. But I also feel that he got into the bounds of other music with that song. It feels more like Opera. Hitting high notes during that song and playing the piano. It feels that this isn't just Elvis that we have seen before. My opinion that version was the best. The others are great too but this version seem to be more powerful and meaning to it.

I think that's more because we have the visuals for that performance. Vocally, it's not his strongest version of the song. There are versions where his breath control is a lot better and he is more vocally daring, eg going up on "long, lonely time" towards the end. I'd love to have the Ann Arbor version on film from two months before.

[Elvis'Darlin]

After I read this thread, I went to YouTube to watch the performance again. Unfortunately, the beginning conversation was not included, but you can kind of read his lips to Charlie at the end. I had a very hard time remembering where this thread was, and it took me all day to find it again... but I was persistent and did find it for comment.

I searched for the thread because I had never really watched the piece with your comments in mind. It seemed to me that Elvis did give a glorious performance on this song. I?ve heard it on CD before and didn?t realize how close to the end it was because his voice came through so powerfully.

Perhaps he was saying good bye to his fans in giving his all. It occurred to me while I was listening to it that he was singing this to his mother. I listened to it several times, and it really seemed that he was singing to his mom... he was coming home to her and to the Lord. He was missing her touch and her kiss. And he was asking her to ?wait for him? because he was coming home. What a heartbreaking song. What a magnificent song!


:sun::sad::sad::sad::sad::sad::sun:

[goodelvisgirl]

In a previous thread..I discussed the perfection of ALOHA...
Now I would like to open for discussion the impact of Elvis' performance of "Unchained Melody" in the CBS Special..1977
*I believe that for a brief moment,starting right after Elvis says to Charlie "Help me with it...." we see the true Elvis Presley..
maybe the ONLY time ever captured on film with such clarity..
Charlie tries to hide his concern...you can see his nervous facial expressions..
yet....
As the camera zooms in on Elvis' swollen face,sweat pouring off him into the microphone...he manages to reach down in the depths of his being..totally engulfed in the song..and the performance...
beating the odds...one last time...pulling off a BRILLIANT rendition of the song..
I have watched this clip 100's of times..and I'm speechless every time I see it..
and the look on his face after the last note says it all...just like the fist punch in ALOHA..
"I did it"
to me...Aloha was Elvis in perfection..
"Unchained Melody" CBS SPECIAL was the crowning jewel for a dying man. waw thats a great way of saying it you are totally right there its like elvis saying yes i am the man i can still do it it always makes me cry and i cheer for him to go for it

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

Unchained Melody is a song that has taken many years to reach me, I just didn't get it. I played it over and over on the Moody Blue album. It just didn't click with me I always wanted to hear other songs from 1969 to 1973 or anything prior.

Then one day I was watching the CBS tapes and it just clicked, not just the passion or the emotion although they are not lost on me but the achievement, the fact that even though Elvis was one of the most versatile singers of all time, he still strived to bring his whole being into a song. Elvis could have just gone through the motions, this is a man who is barring his soul, his modesty completely laid bare. You get the chill running down you spine when you hear it. How did I not get it?
Perhaps having reached the magic age of 38 I can relate, who knows, all I know is that there are few live performances that achieve this feeling.... Take note Sillerman, the fans want this available in deluxe Quality

[KPM]

He obviously loved the song. I think Elvis's best work was when he loved the song. I recall listening to it on the night he died, and it was so haunting. I had only got Moody Blue album a few days before. I had listened to it and enjoyed it-but listening to it that night I realized the heartfelt emotion it contained. And the depth Elvis went to when he sang it. Seeing the video and the condition of Elvis made it even more amazing, because the voice sounds so strong and vibrant. I can't watch the video and not get a lump in my throat.

[rickb]

not bad, Elvis, not bad indeed.
Rick

[Miss Clawdy]

What great and beautiful comments you all made. You voiced my feelings.

[The King's Queen]

I too think that Elvis perhaps had a deep feeling that he may never do that song again, live and before an audience. The intensity with which he sang was proof of that for me. As for the part where he mumbles something like "Help me with it"...I just wonder exactly who he is calling on for help. :hmm: Someone once told me that just before taking the stage for a performance, Elvis would pray and ask God to help him. If this is true, I am wondering if perhaps he could have been asking for help from higher-up....? Maybe, maybe not...guess we will never know for sure. But one thing is for sure...He was physically ill, and yet he was still "TCB" for his fans!!! :notworthy

No other performer could be loved and adored as much, for as long....

[Circle G]

After I read this thread, I went to YouTube to watch the performance again. Unfortunately, the beginning conversation was not included, but you can kind of read his lips to Charlie at the end. I had a very hard time remembering where this thread was, and it took me all day to find it again... but I was persistent and did find it for comment.

I searched for the thread because I had never really watched the piece with your comments in mind. It seemed to me that Elvis did give a glorious performance on this song. I?ve heard it on CD before and didn?t realize how close to the end it was because his voice came through so powerfully.


:sun::sad::sad::sad::sad::sad::sun:

You know you can download clips from youtube to save on your hard drive, there are loads of sites which provide this facility. If you do this you will never have to search for them again. Try this link : http://javimoya.com/blog/youtube_en.php

[retroprincess]

"Unchained Melody" CBS SPECIAL was the crowning jewel for a dying man.

So perfectly said.

I think this performance is one of the most beautiful, most poignant, most soul-reaching performances Elvis ever gave. Such power and strength against all the odds, and you can't believe he can deliver because you can see the fragility - you can see he is fading before our eyes. I think what keeps him going is love - love for the song, love for the fans.

Every time I watch this performance, it kills me. I just wish we could have saved him, if that makes sense. :'(

[TLC67]

So perfectly said.

I think this performance is one of the most beautiful, most poignant, most soul-reaching performances Elvis ever gave. Such power and strength against all the odds, and you can't believe he can deliver because you can see the fragility - you can see he is fading before our eyes. I think what keeps him going is love - love for the song, love for the fans.

Every time I watch this performance, it kills me. I just wish we could have saved him, if that makes sense. :'(

(y)Ditto! I wish someone could have helped:hug:.

[Davey]

Interesting thread, this, on one of my favourite songs. I could never get on with the Righteous Brothers' version, this is Elvis' song all the way as far as I'm concerned.

Regarding the "help me with it" comment from Elvis during the song, I realised something that only became apparent to me on viewing the CDS 1977 Special out-takes, and hearing other versions performed during 1976-77.

The version as officially released on the Great Performances cd/dvd features only piano & vocals. However, the version on the CBS tapes has a totally different piano track, AND the band & singers join in as the song progresses. THe band join in as the song progresses on every other live version I have heard performed by Elvis.
The officially released version has Elvis' piano track replaced by a session musician's. Every other instrument from the live version has been muted. Basically it is un-dubbed, as opposed to overdubbed

On the out-takes video, the bass tentatively starts to pick out some notes towards the end of the 1st verse. Elvis reaches a more definite rhythm on the piano with the repeat of the 1st verse, and when he says "help me with it", I think he is referring to the band who were holding back more than usual. Maybe they were as mesmerised as we are when watching this performance.
Immediately afterwards, we hear some of the band playing more confidently in accompaniment, including the brass section, and the song finishes with full accompaniment from the band in the final moments of the song.

So, I personally think that Elvis was just encouraging the band to support him on the song as they usually did, & not leave him him un-accompanied as he reaches for the big notes at the end.

Just my thoughts after hearing the differences between the officially released version, and the version featuring the untouched audio from Rapid City.

[Suspicious Minds]

Here is 2 from Unchained Melody part.

[rickb]

that `not bad' comment was a nice understatement
Rick

[SleepyJack]

"Unchained Melody" is a powerful,beautiful song and I love it...that all came from somewhere deep inside Elvis and I am glad that the cameras were rolling to capture it....but....that isn`t why I`m responding to this!!........I always thought..at least up until a few minutes ago that Elvis said "Get with it"......anyone else hear it that way??

[elvisville]

I can't see why everyone thinks this is such a great performance, he doesn't sound good at all, he is struggling with it ,he is out of breath and doesn't look good.Elvis covered many songs and made them his own , but not this one, the original is way better.How many of you if you had friends round and wanted to impress them with Elvis, would show him singing this song ?Sure it's emotional and sad , but not one of his great moments, far from it.

[Dudcowboy_1]

To me the whole June 21st show was awesome! He was on key, hit every note and high note. Unchained Melody like most on here I think in a way Elvis new he wasn't going be here much longer.

I was reading a artical other day taht Elvis had a dream 6 to 8 months before about his death. And most part that's why he started singin' My Way again. I believe it was in Silvia Brown artical.

Love to all,
Tim

[Unchained Melody]

Hi there,

Please don't forget, that he was also very unwell......:sad:


Jess

You can't forget that he brought most of his problems onto himself, by self-destructing himself.

[hgs262626]

In Response To, The Lyrics "ill Be Coming Home Wait For Me" Potentially Being Significant...... I Think..

Its Easy To Look For Symbolism... E.g Surely My Way Would Be More Significant... "and Now The End Is Near And So I Face The Final Curtain" But At The End Of The Day Elvis Did Not Know He Would Die On August 16 1977!

[Getlo]

To me the whole June 21st show was awesome!

You must be kidding ... :blink:

[Laura Harrell]

Beautiful description of this performance, Elvis' Babe. It was as if he knew this was the end and it was an absolutely breathtaking and brilliant performance!

[john carpenter]

I have the Omaha & Rapid City Concert on Dvd, and when Elvis says "Charlie,you gotta make up your mind son" hold the scarves, the rings ,help me with the keys? Exactly what does he say to Charlie? I see Elvis is getting tired and frustrated right before sings "unchained Melody".:'(:king::notworthy

[Getlo]

Unchained Melody like most on here I think in a way Elvis new he wasn't going be here much longer.

I can practically guarantee you most on here do not believe that! Elvis had no idea what was to come. No one did. But when it came, it was a shock, but it was no surprise.


I was reading a artical other day taht Elvis had a dream 6 to 8 months before about his death. And most part that's why he started singin' My Way again.

Elvis may well have had a dream like that, but to construe this as the reason he did My Way is pure supposition on the part of whoever suggested it.

Besides, the facts do not bear out this theory.

Elvis did My Way once in 1974, and twice in 1975, after performing it relatively consistently in 1972 and 1973.

It came back into his repertoire in April and May of 1976 (many times done) and was featured four times in Vegas in December and in four of five shows of his New Year tour, culminating in Pittsburgh.

So the song was back in his repertoire long before his death.

Just like many other songs. There is no great significance to it other than what people read into it now that he's gone.

[Elvis'Darlin]

You know you can download clips from youtube to save on your hard drive, there are loads of sites which provide this facility. If you do this you will never have to search for them again. Try this link : http://javimoya.com/blog/youtube_en.php

Thanks a lot. I haven't been here for awhile. In the meantime I got Firefox 3.1 and it doesn't work with that, so I'll wait for a little while. This seems like a very good thing. Now, I'm waiting for the update to the appliication. Thanks again.

[LianaKaralivanou]

Howardrobardhughes this last sentence you wrote "..."Unchained Melody" CBS SPECIAL was the crowning jewel for a dying man...", brought tears to my eyes...

[epmoodyblue]

oh enough of these dramatic reviews of a song elvis sings..because elvis died in 77? :hmm:4 me absoulutely no hidden symbolism whatsoever for that song...and all this baloney swollen face sweat out of breath etc blah..........it was just an outstanding performace period...not of dying man..who the heck knew elvis would pass away in 77 nobody..as elvis came close to dying a few times long before 77...elvis was in this shape since oct 74 to 77 overweight accompanied by many other serious problems..he always belted out songs that way.heart and soul thats why elvis was the greatest(y):notworthy..no hidden symbolism at all to unchained melody..just a brilliant performance anybody would be outta breath during and after such a demanding song high vocals elvis pulled it off:king:

[Unchained Melody]

You must be kidding ... :blink:


Well compared to many of the other shows from 1977 Rapid City is relatively good.

[Unchained Melody]

oh enough of these dramatic reviews of a song elvis sings..because elvis died in 77? :hmm:4 me absoulutely no hidden symbolism whatsoever for that song...and all this baloney swollen face sweat out of breath etc blah..........it was just an outstanding performace period...not of dying man..who the heck knew elvis would pass away in 77 nobody..as elvis came close to dying a few times long before 77...elvis was in this shape since oct 74 to 77 overweight accompanied by many other serious problems..he always belted out songs that way.heart and soul thats why elvis was the greatest(y):notworthy..no hidden symbolism at all to unchained melody..just a brilliant performance anybody would be outta breath during and after such a demanding song high vocals elvis pulled it off:king:

Couldn't agree more, theres no symbolism hidden or whatever the heck that is, its just a heart felt performance of a man who is and had been very ill for some time, giving it his all in a song he liked very much !

[EnigmaticSun]

giving it his all in a song he liked very much !

Yeah we know, but is it permitted to like anything from the shows filmed for the CBS special?

This version of "Unchained Melody" did just fine. It wasn't the most polished version ever, but his vocals were clear and strong.

They should include such a song on CD or DVD as it shows just how Elvis liked to work. He had that talent to give instruction to the band while singing and playing the piano.

It isn't necessary to only show Elvis as a singer with perfect master takes. This work in progress is something to see and hear as fans can have a more intimate look at the artist's work.

[rocknroll]

I can't see why everyone thinks this is such a great performance, he doesn't sound good at all, he is struggling with it ,he is out of breath and doesn't look good.Elvis covered many songs and made them his own , but not this one, the original is way better.How many of you if you had friends round and wanted to impress them with Elvis, would show him singing this song ?Sure it's emotional and sad , but not one of his great moments, far from it.

Bingo. I cringe when I see this performance, especially the ending when he loses control of the vocal. Like most shows that year, he is out of breath, very thin voice with no tonal quality.

[Tony Trout]

I can practically guarantee you most on here do not believe that! Elvis had no idea what was to come. No one did. But when it came, it was a shock, but it was no surprise.



Elvis may well have had a dream like that, but to construe this as the reason he did My Way is pure supposition on the part of whoever suggested it.

Besides, the facts do not bear out this theory.

Elvis did My Way once in 1974, and twice in 1975, after performing it relatively consistently in 1972 and 1973.

It came back into his repertoire in April and May of 1976 (many times done) and was featured four times in Vegas in December and in four of five shows of his New Year tour, culminating in Pittsburgh.

So the song was back in his repertoire long before his death.

Just like many other songs. There is no great significance to it other than what people read into it now that he's gone.



Agreed. We've been through this before time and time again. Elvis did not know what was going to happen to him on August 16, 1977 and "My Way" was not a swan song in any shape or form.




Bingo. I cringe when I see this performance, especially the ending when he loses control of the vocal. Like most shows that year, he is out of breath, very thin voice with no tonal quality.


I share the same sentiments. This is not one of his best performances.

By 1977, Elvis was just a shell of the performer that he had been only four years earlier. :'(

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

Well compared to many of the other shows from 1977 Rapid City is relatively good.

Hi Brad, Elvis was in bad shape throughout June 1977, there are some highlights, however even these highlights are blown out of all proportion by ardent fans who have Elvis' best interests at heart.

We can say that Elvis was ill, we can say he was over-prescribed and they are valid reasons for not being 100% on you game, what we shouldn't do is ignore the fact that this wasn't Elvis at his best!

There seems to be myth that Elvis' voice never failed him, I'm sorry but there are times where it may not of completely failed him but it wasn't at it's optimum.


Don't get me wrong, I would give anything to have seen Elvis, even the worst concert he ever gave, and there lies the problem, a lot of people just wanted to go see the King even if he was extremely ill.

[epmoodyblue]

Bingo. especially the ending when he loses control of the vocal. Like most shows that year, he is out of breath, very thin voice with no tonal quality.:lmfao::lmfao::lmfao::lmfao::lmfao::lmfao: :lmfao:..anyways ur entitled to ur opinion

[Miss Clawdy]

How many of you if you had friends round and wanted to impress them with Elvis, would show him singing this song ?

Funny, that's exactly what I did!
In this performance of Unchained Melody we can see and feel the power, the brillancy and the soul of Elvis the entertainer and Elvis the man and for me this is simply grandness and makes it better than other performances. Also, I really can't hear a breaking thin voice :blink:
For the symbolism, maybe there is some in it as well as in My Way, but I think only his subconsciousness would let do Elvis things which could be seen as symbolism....in hindsight.

[beckelvis]

I belive that in certain way it was a brillant performance,when youbit see his eyes they reflect an enormus emptiness,this one exhausted,but when you listen to it you hear the voice,that I captivate millions persons.
But let´s not deceive ourselves,it was not his better espectacle,but it he was very intense.This face seems to reflect(Already I have everything I begin am proud to obtain)at least seems to me to my,if is not like that me to be grateful that they were rectifying me.Thank you.

[rocknroll]

:lmfao::lmfao::lmfao::lmfao::lmfao::lmfao::lmfao:. .anyways ur entitled to ur opinion

Would you like to discuss. Unfortunately for you, I have proof. Just look at the video.
:lmfao::lmfao::lmfao::lmfao::lmfao::lmfao::lmfao:: lmfao::lmfao::lmfao:

[KPM]

Hi Brad, Elvis was in bad shape throughout June 1977, there are some highlights, however even these highlights are blown out of all proportion by ardent fans who have Elvis' best interests at heart.

We can say that Elvis was ill, we can say he was over-prescribed and they are valid reasons for not being 100% on you game, what we shouldn't do is ignore the fact that this wasn't Elvis at his best!

There seems to be myth that Elvis' voice never failed him, I'm sorry but there are times where it may not of completely failed him but it wasn't at it's optimum.


Don't get me wrong, I would give anything to have seen Elvis, even the worst concert he ever gave, and there lies the problem, a lot of people just wanted to go see the King even if he was extremely ill.
"Great show-man great show"........."Dont show the boss the bad reviews"..................
I have to agree-there were no critics from within-and few in the audiences! Most willing to accept him in any form, good, bad and in between.
He no longer needed to move-he could raise his eyebrow and people screamed-he did not need to put fire into the old songs-they were just happy he was doing them-he needn't worry about the shape he was in-it did not seem to matter to anyone! When he did truely give a better show-it was magnified by the acceptance of his bad ones. Horrid circle.
The lethargy of total acceptance. The feeling of-it does not matter they love me!

[yvonne]

anyone who could look at that footage elvis fan or not and not be moved by it, does not have any emotions.

I remember the time this clip was first released on
Video. Me and a couple of friends had a small fanclub in those days. We also stood on markets with our Elvis stand. We rented a big TV screen to show Elvis video's. We always got comments when people saw we were Elvisfans, selling only Elvis stuff and most of the time those comments weren't very nice....
The video "Great perfomances", was just released and had this clip in it. As soon as we played it we drew a crowd.... people stopped and watched silently. Most of them weren't Elvisfans at all but you could tell that they were moved by seeing this video clip.

[tcbeus]

Like Diane, I can't watch this video too often, it brings me to tears, it hurts my heart, but I can't stay away from it either, it is BRILLIANT! A rainbow of emotions.

I kinda feel the same.From time to time i need to watch it,but it always make me cry.

[Cherokee]

It has been written even in newspapers in 1976/1977 that the Elvis Presley show during those years wasn't fantastic. He relied on the love of the audience and the knowledge that they take anything for granted from the King ("the only thing I need to do is show up and do 'well, well, well'..."). Many shows during those two years were not much more than a few very bad performances of old classics, long, long introductions of the band and much attention of Elvis to the first rows.

But even in those negative newspaper reports (that were -in my opinion- closer to reality than the 'good show, good show' remarks from the Memphis Maffia), they were amazed how extremely good Elvis was during a few gospels and ballads. How is it possible that a man who does a show on the automatic pilot, comes suddenly alive while singing songs like Hurt, Unchained Melody or How Great Thou Art?

It think this has to do with the "It's very hard to live up to an image" remark from Elvis in 1972. The whole show was a prison of the image of Elvis. An image that he didn't know to escape from. But with songs like these he escaped that prison and showed the audience a rare glimps at his soul...

In Total Agreement(y)

[jak]

Hi Brad, Elvis was in bad shape throughout June 1977, there are some highlights, however even these highlights are blown out of all proportion by ardent fans who have Elvis' best interests at heart.

We can say that Elvis was ill, we can say he was over-prescribed and they are valid reasons for not being 100% on you game, what we shouldn't do is ignore the fact that this wasn't Elvis at his best!

There seems to be myth that Elvis' voice never failed him, I'm sorry but there are times where it may not of completely failed him but it wasn't at it's optimum.


Don't get me wrong, I would give anything to have seen Elvis, even the worst concert he ever gave, and there lies the problem, a lot of people just wanted to go see the King even if he was extremely ill.

Thank you for this logical post.The reality of the way things were back then is far different than many believe.

[seyeregit]

I know this is an old thread, but I'll jump in . . .

The comments here about total acceptance by the fans are indeed true.

During '76 and '77, he was just going through the motions, and sometimes very slowly at that.

There was no comparison between Elvis 1970 and Elvis 1977.

There was no challenge, no spark, nothing that seemed to motivate and stimulate him . . . he was just getting through each show, same drill, doing the job he was paid to do.

The fans should have expected more and demanded more - perhaps it would have sent a strong message and might have helped him. But really, it shouldn't even have been up to the fans - the people around him who "allegedly" cared so much about him should have exercised some control and intervened. No one can convince me that no one could help him or tell him what needed to be done. I think too many were just too afraid of the gravy train derailing, and in some convoluted type of thinking, they thought helping him would do that - instead of understanding that NOT doing something was precisely what caused the derailment.

The lack of spark in his shows was health-related AND due to the fact that his career was not headed in any particularly interesting or challenging direction . . . be it the fault of Parker and cronies or that Elvis just did not take charge, the fact was that he needed to stay up with the times, do something extraordinary to perpetuate the excitment of who he was and what he had done. But sadly, that did not happen.

If E had taken time off beginning around 1975, just stepped back and evaluated his life and career, things would have been different, at least for awhile.

One can argue that it was destiny and heredity for him to leave so young, but had he gotten clean, hired a qualified fitness trainer and nutritionist, "cleaned house" (gotten rid of the excess baggage) and worked with some phenomenally talented writers and producers, he could have blazed trails into the eighties and beyond and left everyone else in the business in the dust.

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

Nice post seyeregit, very succinct. The problems were exacerbated by the Vegas stints where Elvis was expected to do two shows a night and three at the weekend! I don't care who you are, your probably going to take something to help you get through the punishing schedule. Elvis was a major star, he didn't need to do that many shows.

[chloe13]

I am always in awe of Elvis' vocal range. People (not true Elvis fans) but some focus on his weight at the end of his life and forget just how gifted this man was. I believe he was the best singer ever. MJ could dance but his vocal's were studio enchanced and didn't have the pipes of an Elvis, I don't know of any entertainer that could take a song and make it sound so unique. When you listen to him you hear a man with an amazing ability to sing from his soul. God, when I listen to Unchained Melody I get gooose bumbs, Love him and always will.

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

People (not true Elvis fans) but some focus on his weight at the end of his life and forget just how gifted this man was.

Hi Chloe, I not so sure that the first part of the section I have highlighted is true, the weight issue is separate IMO, The weight was a symptom of a bigger problem which was Elvis' health. This IMO then lead to other problems including his vocal ability. I don't question there were songs like HGTA and YGMAM where Elvis gave good performances, however these do not compare to say 1972?

Fans can discuss all elements of Elvis life and be objective, to gloss over the problems is what lead to Elvis' downfall in the first place.


I believe he was the best singer ever.

I agree, Elvis was an outstanding artist who's vocal ability was amazing.

[debtdbruno]

I know this is an old thread, but I'll jump in . . .

I saw Elvis for the last time in 1977, and the comments here about total acceptance by the fans are indeed true.

Having seen him every year from 1970 forward, I can tell you that especially during '76 and '77, he was just going through the motions, and sometimes very slowly at that.

There was no comparison between Elvis 1970 and Elvis 1977.

There was no challenge, no spark, nothing that seemed to motivate and stimulate him . . . he was just getting through each show, same drill, doing the job he was paid to do.

Back then, I was one of the accepting fans.

Looking back now, I realize that the fans should have expected more and demanded more - perhaps it would have sent a strong message and might have helped him. But really, it shouldn't even have been up to the fans - the people around him who "allegedly" cared so much about him should have exercised some control and intervened. No one can convince me that no one could help him or tell him what needed to be done. I think too many were just too afraid of the gravy train derailing, and in some convoluted type of thinking, they thought helping him would do that - instead of understanding that NOT doing something was precisely what caused the derailment.

I personally believe the lack of spark in his shows was health-related AND due to the fact that his career was not headed in any particularly interesting or challenging direction . . . be it the fault of Parker and cronies or that Elvis just did not take charge, the fact was that he needed to stay up with the times, do something extraordinary to perpetuate the excitment of who he was and what he had done. But sadly, that did not happen.

I think that if Elvis had taken time off beginning around 1975, just stepped back and evaluated his life and career, things would have been different, at least for awhile.

One can argue that it was destiny and heredity for him to leave so young, but had he gotten clean, hired a qualified fitness trainer and nutritionist, "cleaned house" (gotten rid of the excess baggage) and worked with some phenomenally talented writers and producers, he could have blazed trails into the eighties and beyond and left everyone else in the business in the dust.

As it was, we'll never know what he could have done . . .


excellent post(y)(y)(y)(y)(y)


on a side note, when my Parents watched the dvd of EIC, my Dad said he thought he did remarkably well singing this, especially considering he was sitting down

[Unchained Melody]

I think when you look at it this way, his physical appearence from even say 1975 to 1977, there is clearly something alarming happening to Elvis in such a short amount of time.

[debtdbruno]

I suppose it was a buildup............his body had, had enough, it was shutting down..............Tragic

[TTWII2001]

Oh my god, this is so true and so well described....Unchained..the way he did it on the CBS...it's really something else..it's like Elvis last will...or legacy....you are so right I like to think that it's a hidden message....and there is only one other song in that period live...with elvis on piano...with good old Charlie by his side ( rest in peace Charlie ) I saw Where no one stands alone, done with that same spirit...with the same greatness...and that emotion...wow...I hope you have a chance to see that one too....alone with Unchained melody....there you can see what kind of voice and enterner Elvis was.....and either what kind of companion Charllie was for Elvis....

so long friends and thanks for reading me

[Sonny]

Please no more of these nonsense remarks.

[TCB81975]

Where can I get my hands on this show? I have seen a few YouTube clips from it,but never the whole show. I have heard that EPE will not offficially release this. Any thoughts on this?

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

You can buy both shows on the net and e-bay, just do a quick search on Google and it will be there in the top ten (y)

[Albert]

Where can I get my hands on this show? I have seen a few YouTube clips from it,but never the whole show. I have heard that EPE will not offficially release this. Any thoughts on this?

the whole CBS show can been seen in the clips section

[lvs2day]

i have to say that i never cared for his rendition of this song or cared for the song period, but i do believe when he really wanted he could bring out something inspiring and it was clear that the producer sent word to colonel that omaha was a disaster and had nothing that they could really use for the special so E.P. took it upon himself to put on a better show the next time the cameras were rolling. I wish he had sang you'll never walk alone instead of this dead hoarse.