Was Elvis finished with Las Vegas?

[Brian]

I was wondering if Elvis was finished with playing in Vegas when he died it seems that for 1977 he wasn't scheduled to play there as the short 12 concert tour he was about to begin didn't include any shows from there


so does anyone have more info on this?

were their any upcoming shows in Vegas that Elvis was gonna perform?

[molokai123]

i believe he was gonna perform there again, i think he was going to open the new show room they were building. can anybody back me up on this?

[cbg84]

I believe he was done playing there. But I could be wrong.

[Wendy56]

Maybe he wanted just touring? :hmm:

[TotallyInsane]

I was wondering if Elvis was finished with playing in Vegas when he died it seems that for 1977 he wasn't scheduled to play there as the short 12 concert tour he was about to begin didn't include any shows from there


so does anyone have more info on this?

were their any upcoming shows in Vegas that Elvis was gonna perform?

That's a very good question! I never thought about it but he was usually in Vegas in August.

[EnigmaticSun]

He was supposed to open a new showroom later that year. I don't have actual facts to "back up the claim" because I'm too lazy to look them up. I know Aristotle was not Belgian though.

I also recall plans for a laser show. Well, thinking of Elvis I'd say "you don't need that baby".. because he had too much talent to focus on Vegas that much, let alone go for such a wild idea.. :) The jumpsuits were good enough!

[rickb]

I believe he was due to return to Vegas in October.
He should have been done with Vegas after 71

[Brian]

I believe he was due to return to Vegas in October.
He should have been done with Vegas after 71

Was this going to be at the new Hilton showroom that seated 4,000 people?

[utmom2008]

I believe he was due to return to Vegas in October.
He should have been done with Vegas after 71

What would he have done after 1971? I was there in '71, '72 and '73....there were alot of good shows that came after '71.(y)

[EnigmaticSun]

there were alot of good shows that came after '71.(y)

It looks like every artist was able to tour the world except for Elvis. I don't think that being crazy about him would have been limited to one continent. It's not going to do much good wishing he had (toured overseas), but I do doubt Parker had a policy always protecting Elvis' best interests..

Sometimes the mood turned downright ugly. I'm nothing more than a baby chick considering his career, but it's too bad he said things such as "hell.. wish you were too" during Closing Night '73.

Not to say I don't understand he did it, but it's not an ideal situation. He was too special to be annoyed like that and regret the fact he didn't get more appropriate recognition for his efforts. Well I hope he got it from all the beautiful ladies who were there in person and have become a member on TCB-world more recently.

He had his mood swings and used to horse around every now and then. Nevertheless there were some very respectable Vegas-shows in '75 and even '76.

[rickb]

True there were good shows in all seasons but i think from Elvis' perspective he was bored with Vegas and needed more challenges

[Joe Car]

Not only was Elvis bored with Vegas, you had his manager blowing his brains out on the roulette table, which as we now know, ending up costing Elvis money as well. Personally, I think after 76, especially finishing as strong as he did, it was time for Elvis to have taken a break from touring, problem was, he couldn't afford it. Sad but true.

[debtdbruno]

That's the crux of the problem Joe isn't it? He couldn't afford to stop, the wage bill was too high

[Brian]

Not only was Elvis bored with Vegas, you had his manager blowing his brains out on the roulette table, which as we now know, ending up costing Elvis money as well. Personally, I think after 76, especially finishing as strong as he did, it was time for Elvis to have taken a break from touring, problem was, he couldn't afford it. Sad but true.

I believe the Colonel's gambling has been blown way out of proportion

A lot of fans repeat the stories about Parker accumulating these huge gambling debts and then using Elvis to pay them off but no one knows if that is true.

[Brian]

True there were good shows in all seasons but i think from Elvis' perspective he was bored with Vegas and needed more challenges

That's true

I still want my question answered though rickb

When he was scheduled to play Vegas again in October was it the new bigger showroom at the Hilton.

[Joe Car]

I believe the Colonel's gambling has been blown way out of proportion

A lot of fans repeat the stories about Parker accumulating these huge gambling debts and then using Elvis to pay them off but no one knows if that is true.

Basically the Colonel sold Elvis' services short at the Hilton, because they held his marker their. No reason he shouldn't have been the highest-paid entertainer around, especially in Vegas!

[Joe Car]

That's true

I still want my question answered though rickb

When he was scheduled to play Vegas again in October was it the new bigger showroom at the Hilton.

Yes, I believe so. They ended up having the Ali/Spinks fight instead, after EP passed away. I don't think anything was booked for the regular showroom.

[utmom2008]

He was too special to be annoyed like that and regret the fact he didn't get more appropriate recognition for his efforts. Well I hope he got it from all the beautiful ladies who were there in person and have become a member on TCB-world more recently.



(y)(y)(y)(y)(y)(y)(y)

[utmom2008]

That's the crux of the problem Joe isn't it? He couldn't afford to stop, the wage bill was too high

I agree with you on this.....:blush::blink:(n)

[Brian]

Basically the Colonel sold Elvis' services short at the Hilton, because they held his marker their. No reason he shouldn't have been the highest-paid entertainer around, especially in Vegas!

that's a different matter than the Colonel racking up huge gambling debts and then using Elvis to pay them off.

[Rhinestone]

I was wondering if Elvis was finished with playing in Vegas when he died it seems that for 1977 he wasn't scheduled to play there as the short 12 concert tour he was about to begin didn't include any shows from there


so does anyone have more info on this?

were their any upcoming shows in Vegas that Elvis was gonna perform?



I recall reading that a December, '76 show in Vegas was a disaster, with people actually walking out, and that he'd never play Vegas again. I'd have to look that up again, and try to discern if it meant he wouldn't be booked there again or because he never had the chance again. I remember having the impression it was because he wouldn't be booked there again when I read that. I'm pretty sure this was in Guralnick's Careless Love.

[TotallyInsane]

I was at the last 3 shows in December of 76 and the only people I saw walking (or running) was towards the stage, not the door. Maybe he knew I was there so he behaved - by the way - the shows were great!

[Getlo]

The December '76 shows are not all great. Some are fine. Most are okay.

Ger Rijff, who attended many of the shows, detailed people walking out in an article in early '77 and wondered what was wrong with Elvis.

He, of course, wasn't the first to notice something was amiss.

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

I have read, although I can't remember where that Elvis' contract in Vegas had run out and because of the nature of Elvis' health and some poor shows that they were not in a hurry to book Elvis again. Having said that it wouldn't be beyond the realms of possibility that they would have hired him again had his health improved.

I'm sorry to say this but the shows Elvis was performing in 1976 (Vegas & Touring) and 1977 (touring) were a far cry from what he was putting out even in 1974-75, I'm sure there will be those who were there who will say that they were just fine, however the Hilton was a business and they had become nervous about Elvis' erratic behaviour and quality of show he was putting on. You only have to look at photo's from this period to see that Elvis shouldn't have even been on a stage!

From the point of view of the casual fan, Elvis was not the attraction the the loyal fans saw through their eyes and therein lies the problem. IMO people ended up going to an Elvis show to see Elvis and not what he was performing.

[TotallyInsane]

Yes, being a loyal fan, my reviews of any shows I saw are always shot down because someone out there has a read a review or article that says different. There were even not so flattering articles written back in 71 and 72 so I guess he really didn't put on a show that was ever worth a da_mn.

[Getlo]

Yes, being a loyal fan, my reviews of any shows I saw are always shot down because someone out there has a read a review or article that says different.

Your perception of the December '76 shows is obviously clouded by your excitement at having been there, which is perfectly understandable.

And it's nothing to do with reviews, either.

Photos, audio recordings and videos of the engagement give a more accurate and objective assessment of what went on.

[TotallyInsane]

Your perception of the December '76 shows is obviously clouded by your excitement at having been there, which is perfectly understandable.

And it's nothing to do with reviews, either.

Photos, audio recordings and videos of the engagement give a more accurate and objective assessment of what went on.


How do photos give a more accurate assessment?

[Getlo]

How do photos give a more accurate assessment?

They compliment the video and audio.

[Brian]

I have read, although I can't remember where that Elvis' contract in Vegas had run out and because of the nature of Elvis' health and some poor shows that they were not in a hurry to book Elvis again. Having said that it wouldn't be beyond the realms of possibility that they would have hired him again had his health improved.

I'm sorry to say this but the shows Elvis was performing in 1976 (Vegas & Touring) and 1977 (touring) were a far cry from what he was putting out even in 1974-75, I'm sure there will be those who were there who will say that they were just fine, however the Hilton was a business and they had become nervous about Elvis' erratic behaviour and quality of show he was putting on. You only have to look at photo's from this period to see that Elvis shouldn't have even been on a stage!

From the point of view of the casual fan, Elvis was not the attraction the the loyal fans saw through their eyes and therein lies the problem. IMO people ended up going to an Elvis show to see Elvis and not what he was performing.

I have figured out he was going to perform there again in October 1977 at the new bigger Hilton Pavilion showroom which seated 4,000
Even if Elvis gave bad performances and was in bad health he was still a huge draw in Vegas and that's all that mattered to them I think in December 76 more people went to see Elvis Las Vegas engagement than all other the other acts in Vegas combined he was just so huge a money making machine there that they couldn't afford not to book him.
I believe he would've set an attendance record had he lived long enough to play there.

[epmoodyblue]

http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e160/selenauno/th_6hh.gifwho knows ..prob not..had elvis lived beyond aug 77..he would of surely returned to vegas in dec of 77..elvis always gave his best in vegas..when he wasint feeling well..like in aug 75 obviosly shows werent up to par its normal.. health probs got in the way.. as for the rest of the crap. people say about elvis in vegas couldint care less..he came out limping blah blah blah etc never ending stories who cares..the dec 76 vegas shows were great concerts a trimmed down elvis way better looking than his vegas 75 shows .. :notworthy

[EnigmaticSun]

How do photos give a more accurate assessment?

Grr, I agree with you. I haven't been there, obviously, but Elvis had been losing weight for some time. I do know he had to sit down on a chair (sprained ankle?) at some point, but from what I've heard (recordings) I'd have to conclude Elvis was in fine vocal shape and performed an interesting and refreshing set-list compared to previous engagements.

So I don't think it's fair to say that her view on things is like absolute rubbish. You might be jealous of her having been there, Getlo! ;)

[TotallyInsane]

http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e160/selenauno/th_6hh.gifwho knows ..prob not..had elvis lived beyond aug 77..he would of surely returned to vegas in dec of 77..elvis always gave his best in vegas..when he wasint feeling well..like in aug 75 obviosly shows werent up to par its normal.. health probs got in the way.. as for the rest of the crap. people say about elvis in vegas couldint care less..he came out limping blah blah blah etc never ending stories who cares..the dec 76 vegas shows were great concerts a trimmed down elvis way better looking than his vegas 75 shows .. :notworthy

(y)(y)(y)(y)(y)

[TotallyInsane]

Grr, I agree with you. I haven't been there, obviously, but Elvis had been losing weight for some time. I do know he had to sit down on a chair (sprained ankle?) at some point, but from what I've heard (recordings) I'd have to conclude Elvis was in fine vocal shape and performed an interesting and refreshing set-list compared to previous engagements.

So I don't think it's fair to say that her view on things is like absolute rubbish. You might be jealous of her having been there, Getlo! ;)

(y)(y)(y)(y)(y)

[Teddy]

I'll freely admit that I'm jealous!

[debtdbruno]

Me too!!!!

[EnigmaticSun]

I'll throw in some old-fashioned honesty here and admit that I'm a bit of a jealous woman as well.. But it's not a reason to begrudge someone about it.

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

I have figured out he was going to perform there again in October 1977 at the new bigger Hilton Pavilion showroom which seated 4,000
Even if Elvis gave bad performances and was in bad health he was still a huge draw in Vegas and that's all that mattered to them I think in December 76 more people went to see Elvis Las Vegas engagement than all other the other acts in Vegas combined he was just so huge a money making machine there that they couldn't afford not to book him.
I believe he would've set an attendance record had he lived long enough to play there.

Can you please find me a link or post a credit to this information as I haven't seen it anywhere. I don't doubt that Elvis was a big draw, but if the Hilton hadn't decided to to renew Elvis' original contract that would suggest that they had some issues to resolve and I believe that the Colonel would have had something in the pipeline? It is known fact that Elvis was touring far more in 1977 than years with Vegas dates so they must have made these plans knowing that Vegas wasn't an option!


Yes, being a loyal fan, my reviews of any shows I saw are always shot down because someone out there has a read a review or article that says different. There were even not so flattering articles written back in 71 and 72 so I guess he really didn't put on a show that was ever worth a da_mn.

It has nothing to do with your opinion, as has already been mentioned, shows have bootlegged video and CD's which unless you are honest do not show a man at the pinnacle of his career. There are of course reasons such as ill health, prescribed meds and fatigue that are factors. I mean this in a sincere way, if you as some-one who was actually there cannot admit to sub par shows and a decline in quality, it clearly shows you are viewing him in a biased way.

There are those who prefer the latter Elvis career and I'm not knocking them, however I prefer the Elvis who was more dynamic and full of life, for me Elvis was just to ill and out of shape by 1976/77

[utmom2008]

As most of you know, I was at Vegas and the concerts between August of 1971 and December of 1976. The last time I saw him, Dallas '76, was a better show than his show of June 1975. Along those same lines, his opening night from August '73 was a better show than his opening night of August '72.

[Brian]

Can you please find me a link or post a credit to this information as I haven't seen it anywhere. I don't doubt that Elvis was a big draw, but if the Hilton hadn't decided to to renew Elvis' original contract that would suggest that they had some issues to resolve and I believe that the Colonel would have had something in the pipeline? It is known fact that Elvis was touring far more in 1977 than years with Vegas dates so they must have made these plans knowing that Vegas wasn't an option!



http://www.elvis.com.au/presley/muhammad_ali_elvis_presley.shtml

sure this is one of the sources i've found

scroll down if you skim the article a little you'll see it

it's like in the 5th paragraph

[KPM]

I think mentally Elvis had been finished with Vegas long before 77.
The place had lost the luster and excitement for him-been there..done that.
But I think he could have continued to do great business in Vegas-even though the shows, reviews, his conduct and appearance (at times) were a far cry from 69-72. People loved him, and millions worldwide who wanted to see him still never had. They would have continued coming to see him.
I saw him in 1976 and it was "a good show for 76" but if I compare the fan footage of 3-22-76 to TTWII or fan footage from that 69, 70. 71 -it does not compare well.... that said I would not trade seeing him on that day for anything of worldy worth.
In 76 IMO his voice still compared well on certain songs, and it exceeded 1970 on others. He was still fun to watch and hear-but his overall performance was not near 1970.

[utmom2008]

In 76 IMO his voice still compared well on certain songs, and it exceeded 1970 on others. He was still fun to watch and hear-but his overall performance was not near 1970.

I would agree with this!(y)(y)

[SweetCaroline]

I was at the last 3 shows in December of 76 and the only people I saw walking (or running) was towards the stage, not the door. Maybe he knew I was there so he behaved - by the way - the shows were great!

I will take your EYEWITNESS account before I will others that were just a mere twinkle in Daddy's eye or children at that time ....any day of the week!!! (y)(y)(y)(y)(y)(y)
Being there and taking it all in LIVE is far different from reading an article, listening to poor quality audios, or even looking at a film!!!

[utmom2008]

I will take your EYEWITNESS account before I will others that were just a mere twinkle in Daddy's eye or children at that time ....any day of the week!!! (y)(y)(y)(y)(y)(y)
Being there and taking it all in LIVE is far different from reading an article, listening to poor quality audios, or even looking at a film!!!

Great post Carole!http://smiley.net.ru/talyes022.gif (http://smiley.net.ru/talyes1.htm)

[_waitinformyelvis_]

im from vegas... i think he was done...

[Brian]

im from vegas... i think he was done...

He wasn't

That's been made clear

[TotallyInsane]

Can you please find me a link or post a credit to this information as I haven't seen it anywhere. I don't doubt that Elvis was a big draw, but if the Hilton hadn't decided to to renew Elvis' original contract that would suggest that they had some issues to resolve and I believe that the Colonel would have had something in the pipeline? It is known fact that Elvis was touring far more in 1977 than years with Vegas dates so they must have made these plans knowing that Vegas wasn't an option!



It has nothing to do with your opinion, as has already been mentioned, shows have bootlegged video and CD's which unless you are honest do not show a man at the pinnacle of his career. There are of course reasons such as ill health, prescribed meds and fatigue that are factors. I mean this in a sincere way, if you as some-one who was actually there cannot admit to sub par shows and a decline in quality, it clearly shows you are viewing him in a biased way.

There are those who prefer the latter Elvis career and I'm not knocking them, however I prefer the Elvis who was more dynamic and full of life, for me Elvis was just to ill and out of shape by 1976/77


And, if you've read any of my posts about the shows I saw you will have remembered I didn't always "view him in a biased way". I saw one of the worst shows ever, even according to J.D., and not just me. But, had you been there in August 76 and then December 76 you would have seen the difference in his appearance and his attitude and would have, as I did, thought he was back on track.

By the way, how many shows did you see between 70 -77? If none, then let me add, you can listen to those tapes and watch those videos all day long and still not have a clue what the shows were really like. He put on some "great", and I repeat "great" shows in December 76. I can name a number of people who were there and who will disagree that it was over in December 76.

[Getlo]

, listening to poor quality audios

Who's talking about poor quality audio?

The soundboards from 1976 bear out my theory.

As does high-quality home movie footage.

Objectiveness is the key here.

[jak]

I would to comment about the perception fans had of Elvis' concerts.I only saw him once myself,but I have friends who saw him multiple times.Anywhere from 35 times to around 150 live shows each.I have learned one thing for certain.It's very hard to get a honest view of a performance from a fan.Please dont think Im saying that to knock anybody either.Im not.The memories people have of those concerts are priceless.Seeing Elvis live was a very special thing.That is also some of the problem when dealing with firsthand accounts.My wife saw her first Elvis show the same week he played the garden in 72.She saw him perform the last time in 76 at the exact same arena she saw the first show.She will swear on a stack of bibles the 76 show was every bit as exciting and good as the 72 show.To her I know that's true.However I firmly believe the 72 show featured a guy at or near the zenith of his performing ability.No way the 76 show compares to it.No way no how.It's hard to find a fan who saw those shows that can step back with objective eyes and really critque an Elvis concert they saw personally.Elvis had loads and loads of charisma.It carried him to an extent the last couple of years of his performing.I think many fans saw what they wanted to see.The fans have loving eyes and ears.When I was younger I would say Elvis never gave a bad show.I couldnt bring myself to say such a thing.I realize now that my blind devotion was speaking for me.I didnt buy my first non Elvis record until I was 19 years old.How could I betray Elvis and buy other music?I bring it up because I know what it's like to be that dedicated.His fans did and still do love the guy like no other entertainer before or since.It just doesnt change the fact Elvis gave many,many terrible concerts.Particulary when judging the later ones against the bar he himself set.I wish it wasnt true but you cant change history.Elvis was in no condition to be performing period on many nights.People did walk out of his concerts.People did ask for their money back.That rough stretch however, cant change the fact he will always be one of the greatest,if not the greatest live performer ever.

[EnigmaticSun]

Judging every Elvis era, these had different things to offer. I agree that, for instance 1969 or '70, would feature Elvis at his peak concerning sex appeal and physical power.

Someone said that he exceeded earlier performances in 1976 and I agree. I like rags to riches from 1970, but the live version from new year's eve '76 just blows me away.

There is no such thing as universal (one size fits all) taste in lemonade, umbrellas or Elvis Presley. Everyone is biased somehow.

[utmom2008]

Seeing Elvis live was a very special thing.That is also some of the problem when dealing with firsthand accounts.My wife saw her first Elvis show the same week he played the garden in 72.She saw him perform the last time in 76 at the exact same arena she saw the first show.She will swear on a stack of bibles the 76 show was every bit as exciting and good as the 72 show.To her I know that's true.However I firmly believe the 72 show featured a guy at or near the zenith of his performing ability.No way the 76 show compares to it.No way no how.Elvis had loads and loads of charisma.It carried him to an extent the last couple of years of his performing.That rough stretch however, cant change the fact he will always be one of the greatest,if not the greatest live performer ever.

Jak...you are always capable of making so much sense without offending anyone in the process.:blush: It's very hard to argue with some of your thoughts here. Yes, there was a difference in '72 and '76...I can't deny that there was. It's as you said also.....Elvis set the bar so high for himself that it would have been difficult for him to maintain that kind of show and energy even if the drugs had not taken hold of him. I saw him so many times between 1971 and 1976, but I have always regretted not seeing the summer of 1970 Vegas run and those shows that were so wonderful.
Going to see Elvis was not like going to see a show, it was more of an "experience". Even for those that never cared for him I always wanted them to see at least 1 show, as there was NO explaining what the charisma was like...NO way to explain it. You had to be there. I'm just thankful everyday of my life that I was able to have that "experience"...over and over and over.:blush::blush:

[Diane]

I was never blind to the changes in Elvis over the years but I couldn't stop myself from feeling about him just the way I did from the very beginning. No matter how good or bad things were with him, he was always Elvis and whatever that special thing he had that shone out of him was, it never left him.

Diane

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

Being there and taking it all in LIVE is far different from reading an article, listening to poor quality audios, or even looking at a film!!!

How is it that we can decide that the performances from TTWII or Aloha are good or bad from footage but not EIC or other high quality footage from later years :hmm:



By the way, how many shows did you see between 70 -77? If none, then let me add, you can listen to those tapes and watch those videos all day long and still not have a clue what the shows were really like. He put on some "great", and I repeat "great" shows in December 76. I can name a number of people who were there and who will disagree that it was over in December 76.

There's also no need to get snippy, I'm well aware that a show can bring out feelings in the person in the audience, but that just proves that emotional reactions form your opinion. I have been to many live shows and seen quality acts and got caught up in the moment only to come down after the show. I believe if Elvis had seen footage of 'Elvis In Concert' even he would have been shocked at what he saw, but if you asked a loyal fan what they thought they would gloss over reality.

The great shows from December 1976 are only regarded as so because of some of the awful shows given earlier in the year. Yes, Elvis had pushed himself to get into shape but if I listen to the New Year 1976 show and then stick anything recorded from 1970-71, the earlier stuff beats 76 by a mile, I'll admit there will always be an element of preference but quality and slickness isn't a preference IMO.

[Jungleroom76]

Of course I'm coming into this discussion a little late... :blush:

...but while I am not entirely sure if Las Vegas was done with Elvis, I really think Elvis was done with (or at least WANTED to be done with) Las Vegas. Clearly the excitement of performing in Vegas for Elvis had long since worn off and I truly think that it was The Colonel who kept Elvis performing in Vegas, and why not? Not only did The Colonel have a sweet deal set up for himself with the hotel, but by keeping Elvis in one location like Vegas, there were far less traveling expenses for the show, thus more profit to be cleared for The Colonel to siphon off from....er I mean split with Elvis. :angry:

Sadly though, I truly think that as long as Elvis kept The Colonel around, Elvis was going to continue playing Las Vegas for as long as The Colonel could possibly keep him there. The only two ways Elvis was going to get out of the Vegas routine was if he got rid of The Colonel, or when it was no longer profitable for The Colonel to keep Elvis there. Remember....it wasn't what Elvis wanted, it was only about the $$$$$$$$$ that The Colonel could make off of Elvis being there!!! (n)

TCB!
Mike

[Jungleroom76]

I also recall plans for a laser show.

Actually, I think you are thinking about the plans for Elvis to open the new Kingdome in Seattle for New Year's Eve 12/31/77 which was supposed to feature a new jumpsuit that would fire out laser beams when Elvis pushed certain buttons on the suit. :hmm:

TCB!
Mike

[jak]

Jak...you are always capable of making so much sense without offending anyone in the process.:blush: It's very hard to argue with some of your thoughts here. Yes, there was a difference in '72 and '76...I can't deny that there was. It's as you said also.....Elvis set the bar so high for himself that it would have been difficult for him to maintain that kind of show and energy even if the drugs had not taken hold of him. I saw him so many times between 1971 and 1976, but I have always regretted not seeing the summer of 1970 Vegas run and those shows that were so wonderful.
Going to see Elvis was not like going to see a show, it was more of an "experience". Even for those that never cared for him I always wanted them to see at least 1 show, as there was NO explaining what the charisma was like...NO way to explain it. You had to be there. I'm just thankful everyday of my life that I was able to have that "experience"...over and over and over.:blush::blush:


No doubt about it.I feel that anyone who got to see Elvis perform was part of something very special.Those of us lucky enough to see him were witness to,and were part of history.There will never be another like him.I think that's part of the reason some might tend to overlook or downplay the unfortunate negatives that came about in his life.They may not even know they are doing it even.Elvis gave and still gives joy to millions of people.It's not fun to talk about the bad stuff.We dont need to dwell on it,but we shouldnt sweep it under the rug either.It took me years and years to come around to that way of thinking about Elvis.Im the first to admit that for a long time I believed that guy walked on water.I still think he came pretty darn close though;)

[jak]

"I believe if Elvis had seen footage of 'Elvis In Concert' even he would have been shocked at what he saw"

Great comment and absolutley correct.I have often wondered what, if anything, Elvis might have done if he had watched that footage.Sadly it was probably just to late for him to straighten out.

[jak]

" Yes, there was a difference in '72 and '76...I can't deny that there was."

Rosanne
I was curious about something.Did the changes you saw in Elvis concern you at the time?Im always interested in what the fans thought that actually saw him many times.Did you ever leave a show wondering what was wrong?I know many people that saw him 50 times or so right up until the last show.They are completely honest when they say they really werent worried about him at all.They noticed he might have been a little heavier or some things like that.No red flags though.Did you get red flags?How about the circle of fans you were friends with?

[Brian]

Of course I'm coming into this discussion a little late... :blush:

...but while I am not entirely sure if Las Vegas was done with Elvis, I really think Elvis was done with (or at least WANTED to be done with) Las Vegas. Clearly the excitement of performing in Vegas for Elvis had long since worn off and I truly think that it was The Colonel who kept Elvis performing in Vegas, and why not? Not only did The Colonel have a sweet deal set up for himself with the hotel, but by keeping Elvis in one location like Vegas, there were far less traveling expenses for the show, thus more profit to be cleared for The Colonel to siphon off from....er I mean split with Elvis. :angry:

Sadly though, I truly think that as long as Elvis kept The Colonel around, Elvis was going to continue playing Las Vegas for as long as The Colonel could possibly keep him there. The only two ways Elvis was going to get out of the Vegas routine was if he got rid of The Colonel, or when it was no longer profitable for The Colonel to keep Elvis there. Remember....it wasn't what Elvis wanted, it was only about the $$$$$$$$$ that The Colonel could make off of Elvis being there!!! (n)

TCB!
Mike

remember though Elvis signed the contracts

After the 1969 engagement Elvis signed a long term deal for more engagements you'd think after being unhappy with the movie contracts he'd be more weary about signing a long term deal that would tie him down but he wasn't.
Then supposedly by closing night September 1973 he was fed up with playing there and said some things about the hotel management but when his contract ended he signed another new contract!!!

So Elvis just simply could've refused to sign new contracts or long term contracts but he kept on singning them and ended playing Vegas year after year.

[Jungleroom76]

Then supposedly by closing night September 1973 he was fed up with playing there and said some things about the hotel management but when his contract ended he signed another new contract!!!

True Brian, but after that show was when The Colonel and Elvis had their infamous blow-up where Elvis fired The Colonel. And I am sure that once The Colonel presented Vernon with his "bill" for services rendered to quit being Elvis' manager and Vernon told Elvis that they couldn't afford to pay The Colonel's price, Elvis probably signed the new Vegas contract to help smooth that whole situation over once he took The Colonel back on as his manager.


So Elvis just simply could've refused to sign new contracts or long term contracts but he kept on singning them and ended playing Vegas year after year.

Unfortunately, I don't think it was that simple. Elvis' loyalty to The Colonel, now known to be clearly misplaced during the final years of Elvis' career, was probably used against him by The Colonel in signing the Vegas contracts. Elvis' fear that he would go back to being poor was notorious, and so with that in mind, I am sure The Colonel could have pretty much talked Elvis into anything and he would have done it for fear of losing The Colonel and thus losing his superstardom. :hmm:

Obviously just my opinion... :blush:

TCB!
Mike

[utmom2008]

Rosanne
I was curious about something.Did the changes you saw in Elvis concern you at the time?Im always interested in what the fans thought that actually saw him many times.Did you ever leave a show wondering what was wrong?I know many people that saw him 50 times or so right up until the last show.They are completely honest when they say they really werent worried about him at all.They noticed he might have been a little heavier or some things like that.No red flags though.Did you get red flags?How about the circle of fans you were friends with?

Good question Jak! No, they didn't, not at all. It was chalked up to things like "well, he is past 40 now so he's getting that middle-aged paunch" to "no 42 year old can move and have the energy that a 35 year old has." Always comments like that.:blush: We never dreamed that he had gotten himself into the situation he was in. He was, after all.....ELVIS, and that meant he was just almost super-human.:blush:
The last time I saw him was 12/06/76 in Dallas....I didn't "see" him again until October of 1977 when EIC was shown. I nearly fainted at how he looked, and how he sounded. Not his singing voice, but rather his speaking voice. I thought he sounded so weak and worn out. It was devastating for me to see him like that, I won't ever forget how that night made me feel. I remember just wanting to say........"Elvis, what happened?":sad:

[Brian]

True Brian, but after that show was when The Colonel and Elvis had their infamous blow-up where Elvis fired The Colonel. And I am sure that once The Colonel presented Vernon with his "bill" for services rendered to quit being Elvis' manager and Vernon told Elvis that they couldn't afford to pay The Colonel's price, Elvis probably signed the new Vegas contract to help smooth that whole situation over once he took The Colonel back on as his manager.



Unfortunately, I don't think it was that simple. Elvis' loyalty to The Colonel, now known to be clearly misplaced during the final years of Elvis' career, was probably used against him by The Colonel in signing the Vegas contracts. Elvis' fear that he would go back to being poor was notorious, and so with that in mind, I am sure The Colonel could have pretty much talked Elvis into anything and he would have done it for fear of losing The Colonel and thus losing his superstardom. :hmm:

Obviously just my opinion... :blush:

TCB!
Mike

I don't think Elvis contract ended until some time later after the infamous blow up so he and Parker had already patched things up by the time his contract came up.

I think Elvis situation was that simple if he didn't want to play Vegas for extended period of time he shouldn't of signed new contracts
I think the problem was Elvis playing Vegas was fun, exciting and a tremendous challenge in the begining and he signed further contracts without thinking through what signing those contracts would mean later.

[jak]

Good question Jak! No, they didn't, not at all. It was chalked up to things like "well, he is past 40 now so he's getting that middle-aged paunch" to "no 42 year old can move and have the energy that a 35 year old has." Always comments like that.:blush: We never dreamed that he had gotten himself into the situation he was in. He was, after all.....ELVIS, and that meant he was just almost super-human.:blush:
The last time I saw him was 12/06/76 in Dallas....I didn't "see" him again until October of 1977 when EIC was shown. I nearly fainted at how he looked, and how he sounded. Not his singing voice, but rather his speaking voice. I thought he sounded so weak and worn out. It was devastating for me to see him like that, I won't ever forget how that night made me feel. I remember just wanting to say........"Elvis, what happened?":sad:

Thanks for the reply.Most fans I know who were around back then pretty much felt the same way you did.
I distinctly recall my family and I watching the CBS special the night it aired.Most of my family went when we saw him live in 74.I will never forget the shock and disbelief expressed by my mom and sisters.They couldnt believe their eyes.We didnt have a clue the situation was that bad.Like you said.He was Elvis.He was invincible.He would always be around.

[jak]

I think it's common knowledge that Elvis grew to hate Vegas.However Elvis had two big problems.He was in dire financial cirumstances.He needed the cash from his engagements.He couldnt afford to leave the showroom and it's paycheck.Another and maybe the most damaging problem was Elvis had became a slave to routine.Two weeks or so in Vegas then the same schedule of one nighters.Pretty much played the same cities over and over.Elvis pretty much was able to switch to autopilot during the last couple of years.That wasnt good for him in any way.Once the complete apathy set in he was in big trouble.Endless shows in Vegas and on the road just didnt give him the spark he needed to focus on his career or life.

[Donut]

Two weeks or so in Vegas then the same schedule of one nighters.Pretty much played the same cities over and over.Elvis pretty much was able to switch to autopilot during the last couple of years.That wasnt good for him in any way.Once the complete apathy set in he was in big trouble.Endless shows in Vegas and on the road just didnt give him the spark he needed to focus on his career or life.

In those circumstances I can clearly see why he wanted and needed all his usual entourage around.

[jak]

In those circumstances I can clearly see why he wanted and needed all his usual entourage around.

I think Elvis was at a point where he needed a security blanket if you will.Unfortunately I think he got to a point where the routine was all he could handle.He was barely getting by as it was.The entourage he surrounded himself with acted like a buffer to the outside world.Elvis created his own little world around him and retreated into it.From there it was downhill fast.

[franny]

Didn't he also get threats in Vegas? I'm sure he felt better having his MM around, I think the familiar was very important to Elvis...

franny

[Jungleroom76]

I don't think Elvis contract ended until some time later after the infamous blow up so he and Parker had already patched things up by the time his contract came up.

Hmmm....that could very well be Brian... :hmm:


I think Elvis situation was that simple if he didn't want to play Vegas for extended period of time he shouldn't of signed new contracts
I think the problem was Elvis playing Vegas was fun, exciting and a tremendous challenge in the begining and he signed further contracts without thinking through what signing those contracts would mean later.

THAT is a good point Brian!!! (y)

And sadly, as the movie years shows us, Elvis was one to honor whatever contracts he signed regardless of how miserable he was personally about it, which was the case here as well it appears... :'(

TCB!
Mike

[KPM]

No doubt about it.I feel that anyone who got to see Elvis perform was part of something very special.Those of us lucky enough to see him were witness to,and were part of history.There will never be another like him.I think that's part of the reason some might tend to overlook or downplay the unfortunate negatives that came about in his life.They may not even know they are doing it even.Elvis gave and still gives joy to millions of people.It's not fun to talk about the bad stuff.We dont need to dwell on it,but we shouldnt sweep it under the rug either.It took me years and years to come around to that way of thinking about Elvis.Im the first to admit that for a long time I believed that guy walked on water.I still think he came pretty darn close though;)
Exactly my feelings, I also only saw him once. It was special!
Anytime I get into conversations with others about concerts, many names get rattled off by others-Rolling Stones, Dave Mathews, Springstein, etc....but as soon as I mention Elvis-thats where the conversation stays-all want to know the details. Even people who have no love at all for him show interest.

[franny]

Exactly my feelings, I also only saw him once. It was special!
Anytime I get into conversations with others about concerts, many names get rattled off by others-Rolling Stones, Dave Mathews, Springstein, etc....but as soon as I mention Elvis-thats where the conversation stays-all want to know the details. Even people who have no love at all for him show interest.
of music.

What year did you see him? You're lucky you got to see him, KPM. (y)

franny

[KPM]

What year did you see him? You're lucky you got to see him, KPM. (y)

franny
March 22nd, 1976 St. Louis Mo Kiel Auditorium.
Fairly good show for 1976.

[Jungleroom76]

March 22nd, 1976 St. Louis Mo Kiel Auditorium.
Fairly good show for 1976.

That is the same show that is available in very good quality via import DVD releases, right Ken? (He's wearing the Black & Blue Sabre Tooth Tiger suit, right?) :hmm:

If I have the right video, then I agree with you that it was quite a good show for 1976...most of those performances from the March '76 tour were good shows actually (in my opinion, of course)! ;)

TCB!
Mike

[KPM]

That is the same show that is available in very good quality via import DVD releases, right Ken? (He's wearing the Black & Blue Sabre Tooth Tiger suit, right?) :hmm:

If I have the right video, then I agree with you that it was quite a good show for 1976...most of those performances from the March '76 tour were good shows actually (in my opinion, of course)! ;)

TCB!
Mike
Yes the show was shot from I believe the 3rd row center and it is great footage. Elvis was attacked by a woman during "You Gave me A Mountain"
and it really blindsided him. (the footage unfortunately goes super bright white during this part of the film-on the DVD I have they cut most of it out)
But it was a good show and he was in good spirits. My wife (who was not an Elvis fan) was won over:D

[Jungleroom76]

Yes the show was shot from I believe the 3rd row center and it is great footage. Elvis was attacked by a woman during "You Gave me A Mountain"
and it really blindsided him. (the footage unfortunately goes super bright white during this part of the film-on the DVD I have they cut most of it out)
But it was a good show and he was in good spirits. My wife (who was not an Elvis fan) was won over:D

Yep...that's the one!!! (y)

That is some GREAT video footage...definitely worth seeking out for anyone who doesn't have it or hasn't seen it!!! :D

It must be SO cool to have actual video from the show you went to!! And of course, I can't imagine your wife going to the Elvis show and not being won over!!! :hmm: ;)

TCB!
Mike

[elvispresleytheking]

Maybe not Vegas, probably the Hilton

[debtdbruno]

I think Elvis was at a point where he needed a security blanket if you will.Unfortunately I think he got to a point where the routine was all he could handle.He was barely getting by as it was.The entourage he surrounded himself with acted like a buffer to the outside world.Elvis created his own little world around him and retreated into it.From there it was downhill fast.

Well said.
At times it must have been very difficult being 'Elvis Presley'.

[Jumpsuit Junkie]

At times it must have been very difficult being 'Elvis Presley'.

Agreed, but it could have been great too.