Sometimes the character is remembered for various reasons, in the case of Elvis Presley he always left an image behind him and his voice would be remembered forever. But there are also other factors that are linked to his myth and his legacy. His clothes, his hairstyle, the music that changed the musical culture of the moment and the tune that would accompany him until the end of his days. Since January 26, 1971, at the International-Hilton Hotel in Las Vegas, the image of Elvis will forever be associated with the tremendous overture to the symphonic poem, composed by Richard Strauss entitled "Also Sprach Zarathustra" (Thus Spoke Zarathustra) Op.30. Strauss was a great admirer of the work of the German philosopher Nietzsche, who wrote a book with the same title around the character, the supreme prophet Zarathustra, who symbolized the ideal philosopher, an example between good and evil. Strauss builds his prologue with three notes: do, sol, do. The prologue called "Sunrise" in its composer's notes, represents the sunrise, playing in major and minor mode. This would make for a powerful overture...with huge orchestral effects. The result leaves great emotion and expectation in the public, together with the effects of a stage, the spotlights, the orchestra... and finally the appearance of Elvis Presley on stage, would add even more to the mood of the room, lighting is thrown on stage, it is already known that everything is going to start. 
The crowd knows that Elvis is backstage, and waiting for the signal to go on stage. And the music begins in a crescendo through the speakers, the initial notes of the orchestra, the answering timpani, the orchestral ensemble and finally the drums and drums, which break the initial theme to merge with the initial score that is going to sing. Elvis. 
The atmosphere charged with applause and shouts, all this makes this outing to the public that screams incessantly even more impressive. If we were to give an interpretation to all this, the symbology of the prophet and sun character could be perfectly associated with the figure of Elvis, his spirituality and its grandeur that with time will become mythical. The choice of this score was an occurrence of Elvis himself, possibly because of the 1968 film "2001, a space odyssey" which also used this overture. What was added to his show almost experimentally would become a symbol that will forever be linked at Elvis Presley concerts. 
Elvis, the man... the myth, the King...
"Following the Path of the King ..."

Elvis in Las Vegas, Hilton Hotel 8 Season 1973. Whenever Elvis performed in Las Vegas, well-known personalities, actors, etc. attended to see him perform in concert. Although Elvis was always very special, he treated everyone with the same interest and kindness, he came to have special ties that would unite him with some of these great characters. One of these would be Muhammad Ali, real name Cassius Marcellus Clay, one of the greatest boxers in history. He would start boxing by chance of fate. When his bicycle was stolen at the age of twelve, he went to report the theft to the police and threatened to hit the culprit, to which policeman Joe Martin, who had a gym under his charge, advised him to first train and learn to box. . He would begin by advice and continue by pleasure, winning his first major title, only fourteen years old. When he was young, he would be an admirer of Elvis Presley and wanted to be like him, popular and be able to conquer the public. Considered one of the best boxers of all time, as well as a social figure of enormous influence in his generation, in politics and in social or humanitarian struggles in favor of African-Americans and Islam. On February 2, 1973, Muhammad Ali, the Boxing Champion, returns to see the Elvis show, in this 8th Season at the Hilton and meets with him, to chat and share the moment. He and Elvis had already met in Las Vegas in the August 1971 Season, where they already liked each other and he would know all the enthusiasm of the moment in the artist, who was focused on his performances. When she saw him again after two years, she would notice an enormous difference in his expression, although she would be friendly, happy with him, she would notice in the brightness of his eyes, sadness. He realized that Elvis was not the same as he had known and was very closed in his world, he asked why he didn't go out more often and meet new people. Elvis told him that he didn't want them to harass him or attack him. But Muhammad advised him to change the scene so that he could free himself from all the usual and freshen up his environment. His presence in Las Vegas was due to his training to defend the Champion title, which was to take place on February 14 in Las Vegas against Joe Bugner. Elvis wanted to present him with a very special gift, a special boxing robe that he had ordered the company I.C. Costume Company which was where his jumpsuits were made. I wanted something very special to give him, in white, the robe made with shiny stones and jewels, also on the back he wanted the nickname that his public used to give him, "Champion of the People", to be written, but by mistake, the inscription read "The People's Choice". Sonny West, who was in charge of picking up the gown, did not realize the mistake and took it to Ali so that he could wear it at the Championship. When he found out, he told Ali that he would order it changed for fear of Elvis's reaction, but Ali told him that he liked that inscription even more and that he would wear it with pride. Sonny would tell about Ali, talking to Elvis from time to time and getting a lot of attention from him, he was a great guy too. Ali asked Elvis if Sonny could escort him to the Championship and be able to witness it, to which Elvis agreed, Sonny was very excited because despite the mistake of the Bata, Ali had behaved with him as a friend and would also watch the fight in person. Finally, he wore that Robe in the Championship that he would win on the 14th. Although the Robe was magnificent, he would only wear it again before the public on a second occasion, it was too heavy to wear in a ring and it is also believed that he stopped wearing it because in that second championship he lost against his opponent. It is not really certain, but the truth is that the weight should not favor its use. Ali gave Elvis some boxing gloves, autographed by Ali that said: "Elvis the greatest" and "For Elvis, my best friend". Two characters who would enter through the big door to Eternity.

 "Following the Path of the King..."

From November 1972 until 1973, the costumes on stage were adorned with more rhinestones, more studs, the designs were made with different drawings of animals, symbols, etc. Bill Belew continued to be the designer with the collaboration of Gene Doucette . The suits were more colorful, they were heavier, The leather belts also became more complex with buckles, figures, etc. Elvis often complained saying, "Man, I'm telling you, this suit weighs a ton!" It was evident that it was more difficult to move on stage with these costumes and making movements could be impossible. Although they were very showy on stage and Elvis looked elegant in his show. This season in Las Vegas, Elvis had four new suits and also wore some of the earlier outfits from the June and November 1972 tours. Elvis wanted new belts for the Suits that had no original belt were surely made to avoid the weight of the gold gilding, which he wore instead. In this season some sources disagree about the use of some costumes, so we will put the new ones and the ones that exist proof with photography.

When Elvis performed in Las Vegas, he always received visits from celebrities, friends and others who wanted to meet him. On one occasion when Elvis was performing at the Hilton Hotel, in 1973, Elvis would see his youthful love, Anita Wood, again. A relationship that he maintained for around five years and that brought him security and happiness. She was in Las Vegas with her husband, Johnny Brewer, and ran into Joe Esposito, Lamar Fike and George Klein, who were in the hotel lobby. Recognizing her, they invited her to the show, saying that they knew that Elvis would surely want to see her. She offered him a seat right in front of the stage where she could be close to him. Elvis saw her right away, spoke to her, sang to her. When Anita saw him after so many years, she had not expected to feel this way. When the Show ended she went backstage, because Charlie Hodge told her that Elvis wanted to see her.

There they met again, she and Elvis hugged each other, tightly and for a long time. Elvis said to Anita, "Come into this room, let's go in and talk." It was a small private area, which the Hilton Hotel had so Elvis could change, etc., with just a bed and a chair. Elvis closed the door to leave out the sound and get away from everyone who was there. For the two of them, time had stopped, going back for a few moments, they had returned to their paths and remembered everything that happened. They talked for an hour and the years faded away. Then Elvis looked at her, his face described by Anita, as if it seemed cloudy and gloomy. Then he said in a very low voice: "Little girl, I wonder if we made a mistake, Anita felt the same as Elvis, she didn't want to cry." He tried to keep it up by telling him: “It's for the best. We wouldn't have our wonderful children, Elvis."
It was clear that Anita did not think that surely if her relationship had continued with Elvis, her path would also have changed, perhaps they would have had those children together... but we will never know this. But there would always be that love, which still remained like a flame, an emotion almost uncontrolled. They were both aware because they were feeling the same thing. Even though Anita loved her husband and Elvis was with Linda, they could not forget the past, there were many happy moments, they shared many things, they were never going to lose all of that.

The relationship would break up in 1962, because Elvis had met Priscilla and Anita, who she had been with him since 1957, she read a letter so she understood that something existed between them. Elvis got angry about this. Some time later, when she was going down the stairs to the kitchen, Anita heard Elvis' doubts when she was talking to Alan Fortas and said that he had doubts between the two. Anita told him that she would not have to choose and ended the relationship. On one occasion Elvis was with Cliff Gleaves, listening to records. Listening to "Funny How Time Slips Always" over and over again. Cliff told him, "My heart still burns for Anita." But he never looked for her and she would never return. Elvis married Priscilla years later in 1967, and Anita married Johnny Brewer, a well-known American football player, in 1964. Elvis would revive again. his happy moments with Anita and on this night in 1973, he didn't care about the present, he only cared about the past.
Seeing her again was important for Elvis, really when time passes, you mature, you see the situations, the moments with a different perspective and it is clear that when we leave a relationship the course of our lives changes and for him it changed definitively.

"Following the Way of the King..."

After the July recordings at Stax, Elvis would begin rehearsals on July 31, when the band would start rehearsals at the RCA studio on Sunset.
The repertoire was planned to be more or less similar to the previous tour, but they were also going to work on some songs that were supposed to be included in the Concerts.
Included are some that have not been sung for many years, such as "She's Not You", "I Feel So Bad" and "A Mess of Blues", "Trouble" and the extended medley of "Rock 'n' Roll" in which he is going to include several songs .
Two unrecorded songs, "The Twelfth of Never" and "Are You Sincere?" will also be rehearsed. , which would later be recorded in September in Palm Springs.
For some reason all this was discarded and finally he would only keep the song "Trouble" and the medley of "Rock & Roll", apart from the usual ones, and he would include his new song "Raised on Rock" and a new song that he would sing regularly from then on, "My Boy". This song would be recorded in the future December sessions at Stax Studios.
On August 3rd Elvis flies to Las Vegas to finally start rehearsals at the Hilton Hotel, where he will sing.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5aHLjRw_Kw
The Summer Festival is scheduled to begin on August 6, 1973, in Las Vegas, with the usual dinner and show. As usual the show started with the overture of "Also Sprach Zarathustra", but this time it was made with a special arrangement different from the current style, but it was clear that it lost the strength, the energy and the impact that the original version caused in the spectator. For this reason it would stop being done and would return to its usual interpretation the next day, the experiment may have started from a desire to change or give another approach to the show.
Not only Elvis was tired, it was difficult to do the same thing day after day if there were no changes or variations. The repertoire should have been changed before, they were all in the same boat, Elvis did not know how to change at this time and the musicians, the orchestra were also playing the same thing day after day and for some it was not pleasant.
The public was waiting for their King and the show would begin with optimism for all, except for the journalists who saw in these shows a very big change, not only in his physique, since he had gained overweight, but also in the show in general.
During the shows, one of the most applauded and successful songs was "My Boy", which made the audience stand up to recognize his performance. There was also a particular anecdote when he sang another of the songs that the audience loved the most. It was at one point in the show, as Elvis was beginning "American Trilogy," a large cardboard cutout in the shape of a moon was lowered from above the large Hilton stage. The moon was adorned with a portrait of Abraham Lincoln and an eagle. Elvis was not expecting this, because no one told him they were going to put it behind and when he turned around he said : "My God, the moon is falling".
Elvis also adds to the repertoire a song that sensitizes the public, but initially what he does is to recite it , eventually, you will hear the voice of the Stamps tenor singing it and Elvis reciting the lyrics, the title was "Softly As I Leave You". It is said that women cried when they heard Elvis in this interpretation.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cpf8KQPNkQc
The shows closed with the usual "Can't Help Falling in Love", without adding another novelty. But the audience was usually happy, although it is true that the rest of the shows say they were very variable in performance and especially in Elvis' attitude.

The press was extremely cruel to Elvis, as it would be one of the worst reviews in his career, The Hollywood Reporter gave a negative description of the opening night. What could be read was :
"He is Elvis at his most indifferent, disinterested and unattractive", also " The Living Legend was fat and ridiculously mimicked his former self . His personality was lost in one of the most ill-prepared , unstable and most dispiriting performances of his career in Las Vegas .... It is a tragedy , disheartening and absolutely depressing to see Elvis in this state , fat and ridiculously imitating his former self ".
It seemed to be that they didn't hear his voice, they only saw his physical change and it was very unfair to see how this criticism put him as a puppet of himself. When Elvis read all this, he was obviously very disappointed and his bad mood and depressed state would be more evident to everyone.
It was the beginning of the most atypical shows in Elvis' career.
"Following the Path of the King..."

January 1974
The new season in Las Vegas, again at the Hilton Hotel.
Elvis was still the biggest attraction in Las Vegas, despite time, new artists and old glories. His name was still fully synonymous with what the performances at the Hilton Hotel were a sure value despite his weariness and what again meant accepting the conditions of the contract, but everything will change from 1974 .
Elvis continued to attract his fans who came from all over the world to see him perform.
But fortunately something had changed, Elvis was only going to work for two weeks acting and he was happy because in this way his performances could be full and not end up exhausted.
The Season is scheduled to take place from January 26 to February 9, 1974.
Elvis's mood had also improved, he was more awake and lively, although he had already left the divorce behind, his relationship with Linda is still stable and his new commitments are going to make him focus on his performances . As always, music and his great love for the public would be the reason for his change, they would always be his greatest motivation. It was what he needed then, something new to keep him going.
The performances would be worthy of applause, Elvis returns to excite his audience with his performances. Although again the repertoire is almost the same, few new things to offer, such as the song recently recorded at Stax Studios, "Help me", "Blue Spanish eyes", etc.
Elvis was very excited about his new group "Voice", which he is going to perform in concert, adding more vocal richness to his group.
We talk about all this and much more in our program...
Presented and directed by Ana Albajara, writing a script and reflections on an extensive bibliography.
"Following the Path of the King..."

"Let Me Be There" by John Rostill.
It was a recent hit sung by Olivia Newton-John. The custom of choosing songs that were already popular was being adapted to Elvis's repertoire. Unfortunately, he could not find authors to perform his own music or what they offered him he did not consider suitable for his performances. But the truth is that this meant not offering anything fresh in his shows.
Of the recent songs he only released one song "Help me".
Unfortunately, this was something that weighed and would weigh on Elvis's mind, but the truth is that he himself was the one who could do the miracle.

A song that suited him very well, vocally and to encourage the public and warm up the audience. Elvis sings it lively with rhythm and power. A score that can make his voice shine would be a novelty in these concerts. It would be very well received by the public, as a novelty it was important to innovate with a song and this would be a success. Elvis should have included many more, but it was clear he didn't feel like doing it or he felt his fans weren't going to like it.
It was a very central song in register and not risky at all, but it had that special something that could make the audience dance, since it was catchy.

Elvis begins performing this song in Season 10 Las Vegas.
On March 20, 1974 he would sing it in Memphis to be released on an album recorded live, "Recorded Live On Stage In Memphis" and later on "Moody Blue".
The song would be a million-selling Grammy winner for Olivia Newton John in 1973.
Elvis regularly performed the country pop song for much of 1974 and 1975 . Alternative live performances were released on the "Elvis Aron Presley" and FTD albums "I Found My Thrill", "Dragonheart", "It's Midnight", "Big Boss Man", "Dixieland Rocks", etc, plus a series of pirated copies.

Composer John Rostill
he worked with a number of artists before joining the Shadows, including the Bournemouth band 'The Interns' and also played in the professional musician bands to back up artists coming to England on tour, such as the Everly Brothers and Tommy Roe.
prolific songwriter, contributing to the Shadows' output as a solo songwriter and as part of the mid-'60s Marvin/Welch/Bennett/Rostill team. This combination composed the hits "The Rise and Fall of Flingel Bunt" and "Genie with the Light Brown Lamp”.
A song with spark!
"Following The Path of the King..."

Elvis's preference and taste in terms of musical styles always had a lot to do with Gospel and vocal groups, he liked to perform with their voices on stage and interpret a song to enjoy his favorite music. This song "Why me Lord" would be introduced almost spontaneously during Season 10 at the Las Vegas Hilton, when Elvis asked JD Sumner if he could sing it on stage. JD, with his splendid bass voice, would begin to sing this song accompanied by the Stamps and Elvis, who would give himself body and soul to sing the song with them. Although it is a song that was really more about showing off the group, Elvis would feel very inspired by this letter, because of its meaning, it was one of his favorites.
It was a million-selling country gospel classic composed by Kris Kristofferson that Elvis would record live when he performed it in a March 1974 concert billed as "Elvis Recorded Live on Stage" in Memphis. Elvis added the song to his repertoire for January 1974 (originally titled "Why Me?") after he and the Stamps spontaneously sang it one night on stage. It was a score that gave a lot of play and intensity in his show due to the great interpretation they did together, as well as being able to offer a moment of brilliance to JD and his group. Elvis Recorded "Live on Stage" in Memphis has since appeared in the gospel anthologies "Amazing Grace" and "Peace In The Valley."

"Why me Lord" continued to be performed regularly during concerts until 1975 and on some other occasion at later Elvis concerts. Other live releases included on "Elvis Aron Presley", "Live In Las Vegas" and on the FTD releases "Elvis Recorded Live On Stage In Memphis", "Live In L.A", "It's Midnight", "Dixieland Rocks" , "Unchained Melody, ec.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QAk8UqL-hzk

"Why Me" is the original title of this country gospel song composed by singer/songwriter Kris Kristofferson.
At some point he would explain that he was with some friends in a church and that he was moved when he heard the Larry Gatlin song "Help Me (Lord)". He said that he had never thought of needing help, but that he was at a low point in his life. Then the pastor would ask those present if anyone felt lost... and he surprised himself by raising his hand. The pastor asked him if he was ready to accept Christ and asked him to kneel, for him it was like a liberation and from this moment the question that would give rise to the song was created in him.
"Why Me" was Kristofferson's only major country hit as a solo artist, reaching number 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in July 1973. The song peaked at number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DzVycgM8XHQ
Kristofferson had become a successful artist in the 1970s with songs such as the massive success of compositions such as "For the Good Times", "Me and Bobby McGee", "Sunday Morning Coming Down", "Help Me Make It Through the Night ", etc.
Kristofferson has won three competitive Grammy Awards out of thirteen nominations. He received the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014.
Of him, Elvis would record this song and "For The Good Times" and "Help Me Make It Through The Night".
When he heard Elvis for the first time, Kris was shocked, he could never have imagined that years later she would record his songs, so he would feel honored and grateful, proud that the idol of his youth could interpret the song. songs of him
Elvis was the engine of many artists and young people who were enlightened by his music and inspired by his voice.
But for Elvis the true inspiration was in the Gospel and for this he would choose this song.
"Following the Path of the King..."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ksz_9m5EFwc

 














August 1974. Elvis prepares days before to appear in Las Vegas, at the Hilton Hotel, to premiere on August 19, 1974.
 It was already his 11th season, in the city of sin where he was always received with open arms.
 Elvis wanted to surprise and innovate in his new show, for this he would hold some rehearsals on the 16th, with his musicians.
 The idea was to change his repertoire and the start of the show.

Elvis, too, had made personal changes. After a few days of vacation in Hawaii, he had lost a little weight, had cut his hair and trimmed his sideburns.
 There would also be changes in terms of their wardrobe, designers, etc.
 It was a new commitment to change, because Elvis wanted to find a new air for his show.
 "Following the Path of the King..."

Elvis was a very sensitive man, a person with an innate gift of his for music. When he listened to a song as the good musician that he was, he hardly needed sheet music, the melody adhered to his brain and penetrated him very deeply and if he sang it it was part of his being, it obsessed him to the point of listening to it over and over again. When he liked a score he immediately wanted to sing it or play it and even recite it.

Elvis heard the voice of his group Voice, a song that left an impact on him and that he asked to listen to over and over again."Softly, as I Leave You", this song would be one of the songs that Elvis listened to at home, when he hired Voice . He read the lyrics and Sherril Nielsen sang them, the result was something that left a bittersweet taste for the story, but really beautiful. One day when Vernon Presley heard them, he told his son that it was something very beautiful and suggested that they could do it at one of his concerts. Elvis listened to it some time later and from then on it would become one of those special songs that he liked to present to his audience.

It was an Italian folk song, originally titled "Piano", composed by Tony De Vita with Italian lyrics by Giorgio Calabrese and English lyrics by Hal Shaper. It was originally an Italian hit by Mina, titled "Piano"  https://youtu.be/BP-Q1gIZhEM
Versioned by many artists such as Mat Monro, Andy Williams, Cliff Richard, Bobby Darin, etc. Elvis had already presented it in concert at the end of 1973 , like one of the most beautiful songs I've ever heard. She would present it again in August 1973, for season 11 at the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel. He would take her in concerts in 1974,1975...
A recording of the song from the live performance in Las Vegas would be included on the posthumous Single as a B-side, with "Unchained Melody". The rehearsal that took place on August 16, 1974 in "Walk a mile in my shoes". Live versions from Las Vegas were included on "Elvis Aaron Presley", "Live in Las Vegas", on the FTD "Closing Night", "It's Midnight", "Dinner At Eight", etc. In addition to many pirated discs, "bootlegs".

When he performed the song live in Las Vegas, Elvis Presley explained the story of the song before reciting it, he said it told the story of a very sick man who was in his bed. He was accompanied by his wife who, exhausted by exhaustion, fell asleep. He felt like he was dying and since he couldn't tell her what he felt, he took a pad of notes and left her a writing, where he said goodbye to her.

The song was a very special moment in which Elvis could perform by reciting a dramatic story, with all his sensitivity, while the voice behind Nielsen sang the song. The public was impressed, many even cried. What made this song special, apart from being a beautiful theme, was precisely the introduction of Elvis and then his narration became so powerful and heartfelt.
His accompanying voice in such an intimate way makes us visualize the image of the story. He was something original and different in his show that received the applause of his audience, no one knew how to better convey the feeling through his voice, the feeling of the sound, like Elvis. Heart.

https://youtu.be/36dkp0rhKdk

"Following the Path of the King..."

 Days before making his commitment in Las Vegas, a rehearsal took place where the rehearsals of Elvis and his musicians would be recorded. With the intention of offering a new repertoire, Elvis had included several songs and some of them were new like "The Twelfth of Never". It was August 16, 1974.


 Curiously, this song had already been thought to be sung when Elvis did "Aloha From Hawaii" a year earlier, but it was discarded then and after this rehearsal the same thing also happened.


 The song was a composition by Jerry Livingston and Paul Francis Webster. They were inspired by an old English folk tune "I Gave My Love A Cherry".
 It was a hit for Johnny Mathis in 1956. In 1972 for Donny Osmond as well.


 This essay was recorded by photographer Ed Bonja, but was never published during Elvis's lifetime.
 It would be published in "Walk A Mile In My Shoes" and in "From Sunset Blvd to Paradise Road", etc.


 A love theme, a song that in Elvis's voice is wonderful.
 He plays it very sensitively.
 https://youtu.be/jVRXElhMgpU
 'Following the Path of the King...'


 

On August 19, 1974, Elvis made a change in his repertoire, where he substitutes several songs and adds some new ones.
"If You Love Me Let Me Know" was one of the novelties in this show.

The song was written by John Rostill and would become a hit in 1974, when it was recorded by Olivia Newton-John.
Again he chose songs that were already recent for the public. It was a country song, the songwriter for it was ex-Shadows guitarist John Rostill, who was also Newton John's manager during the early part of her career.
https://youtu.be/dkMkHpKpLkM

It is true that Elvis really liked this song and was guided by her instinct, although for the public it was already Olivia's and he did not make many changes in the interpretation to make it exceptional. It was a song with a central register and very simple, not much could be done, just the appeal of her voice. Although it is true that it was a happy and catchy song.

Elvis sang it hundreds of times over the years. A version recorded live on April 25, 1977 was included on Elvis's album, "Moody Blue". Others are included in
  "Elvis Aaron Presley". There are many bootlegs or pirated recordings.
  Official albums with alternate live performances include the FTD releases "It's Midnight", "Dragonheart", "Big Boss Man", "Dixieland Rocks", "Tucson '76" and "Spring Tours 77", etc.
https://youtu.be/JbTkC1JCgec
"Following the Path of the King..."

"Leather Two-Piece Suit Plain"

Suit consists of two pieces, pants and jacket made of smooth white suede leather.
Made with thick brown leather seams, arranged on the outside and inside of the pant legs, also above and behind the knees.
The pants also have pocket-like seams on the front that are sewn with the same leather thread. The jacket has a seam on the upper chest, back, shoulders and neck, around the cuffs and buttonholes on the cuffs and chest opening.


A funny anecdote with this suit, on August 21, 1974 when he came out in the midnight show Elvis told the audience: "Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, I am the iceman. This suit is a gift from my cousin Bobbie Jane, stand up Bobbie."


"Leather Two,-Piece Sequin Suit"


Two-piece leather suit with sequins, with white suede leather pants and jacket and The design is similar to the rest, with zigzag stitching and small silver sequins on the chest, back, shoulders and neck. Also on the outside of the trouser legs.
It was used no more than three times in this Las Vegas season. The last time this suit was worn was at the midnight show on August 29, 1974.
 
Leather Two-Piece Native Flower Suit"


Floral leather suit with pants and white suede leather jacket with exactly the same zigzag design and some drawings of yellow flowers with green leaves on the chest, back, shoulders and on the flat collar. Also on the waist of the pants and pockets.
On the back is a large painting of a semi-nude woman in a blue dress.
This suit was worn four times during this Las Vegas season and the last time Elvis wore it was on August 3, 1974 during the midnight show.


"Leather Two-Piece Emperor Suit"


Suit with jacket and white suede leather pants, of the same design and seams. With zigzag stitching and some hand drawings of deer and plant-like animals. Arranged on the upper chest, back and neck.
At each of the waist more drawings and on the cuffs, in trouser pockets and legs.


  Elvis wore this suit a total of six times this season in Las Vegas and the last time he wore it was on August 31, 1974, at the dinner show.
With this he put on his karate jacket on stage.


"Leather Two-Piece wine Glass Suit"


Suit with brown jacket and pants, similar design in zigzag in cream color. The chest seam is patterned with stemless wine glasses, on
cream colored on both sides. Also in the back.
On her neck, her knees, she wears large bronze-colored dome-shaped studs. Brown and silver sequins on the shoulders, on the back, on each side of the jacket opening and on the knees.
Elvis only wore it once on stage, on August 30, 1974.
These types of costumes although he wore them this season, they really weren't very showy on stage, they weren't that impressive in the light of the scene, although Elvis dressed everything in a way that looked splendid, he considered dressing them offstage and leaving them at a side since later he would no longer wear them after this season. In any case, Elvis would always look magnificent on stage.
"Following the Path of the King..."

The new Season 12 at the Hilton Hotel in Las Vegas would be held from March 18 to April 1, 1975. It had been delayed three months than expected, but it would gain strength and health so that Elvis could perform some good concerts.
On March 18, the twelfth season would begin at his house, the Hilton Hotel. A place that was initially part of his pride as a professional but had come to be a constraint until the number of Shows he performed each season was finally shortened.
In the opening show, Elvis's voice was more powerful and strong than before. He really sang in the best conditions, playing several registers vocally, there were also physical changes in him, since he had gained weight again. This would force him to change the wardrobe and design new suits by his personal designer Bill Belew, who this time would change to a more classic two-piece design. They looked classical but were embellished with brocade front and back over the shoulders and along the seams of the pants. The rest was simple and nothing flashy for a renewed Elvis and above all to focus attention simply on his interpretation.
Elvis was friendly as always and above all he thanked the public for his loyalty, for seeing him perform in Las Vegas, where he had already been performing for six years.
In one of his shows, his friend Lee Majors, the actor, went to visit him and see his performances. As was the custom, Elvis used to announce the well-known and important people who visited him at the performances.

This time Elvis would stop the show and tell them, "All right, girls...stay in your seats tonight. I've got a new bodyguard...I'd like you to meet him...He's the Six Million Dollar Man." He's working here tonight because he's been out of a job in Hollywood."
He would run onto the stage in slow motion, go around Elvis, grab Elvis's scarf and throw it off the stage.
It was clear the girls screamed their heads off and this would elicit laughter from Elis who told them, "Ladies, you sure are fickle." After laughing, he would refer to Lee Majors again saying: "He is my friend, he is a very talented actor. Ladies and gentlemen, Mr. Lee Majors. That's all, Lee, get off the stage, this is my dream to entertain the public." .
This was always another example of Elvis's good humor at the Hilton, where above all there was trust with the public that was used to seeing him joking with the musicians and with the artists or friends who passed by.
In these concerts there was no criticism regarding his way of singing, although it is true that some saw him apathetic, in general he was seen more dedicated and with a good interpretation, the audience is heard happy and satisfied. There were also no rumors about the things he said or did, since Elvis was calmer and more careful and did not entertain himself in talking too much, as would happen in the previous Season of the Hilton.
His willpower was present again, since he continued with determination in his performances and this time he would not notice the ups and downs that he might have in health.
No matter what, Elvis was following the path of him hard!
"Following the Path of the King..."

The new repertoire chosen by Elvis Presley, as always, was focused on the old hits, but adding some recent recordings and two years before. For example songs from Stax Studios, or from the recent recordings in March 1975, the songs "Fairytale", "And I love you so", "Green green grass of home", recent and others like "Promised Land", " My Boy", "I´m leavin´"... also songs that he had added like "Softly As I Leave You" that he loved to recite. He took up others that he was already including again like "Big Boss Man", "The Wonder of you", etc. Curiosity to include a song that Elvis never really liked "Burning Love". As a novelty he had also included a surprise classic like "Little Darling" and the song "You're the Reason I'm Living", etc.
It was clear that although the repertoire was known, he was trying to give it more variety and presenting new songs to offer something new to the public.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Y_eO55pTRU

Elvis always wanted to have new options and create new challenges and really, although for a long time his repertoire was more or less the same, he wanted to change little by little so that his shows could be different. His fans in Las Vegas used to be regulars from previous years and were receptive to any changes and novelties that could be offered and it would be natural for all Seasons to offer a new repertoire. Within that great set of songs that Elvis offered, he had great scores to choose from and that was what he was doing. It is true that there were great songs that he could show off and would be more suitable vocally, but it was good that he did not get carried away by fatigue and monotony.

Elvis had added to his show a part or a few minutes where you could hear more members of his show. Of course JD Sumner and the Stamps sang and Voice too, but Kathy Westmoreland also gave her female solo voice the opportunity to shine by singing a song on her part, with the song "When it's my time".
And on the other hand, when he introduced his band musicians, each one had more minutes to show his way of playing. With this, Elvis could rest his voice more and they had the opportunity to show his personal work and The orchestra also had its moment.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FigLLAu1scI

As for the repertoire that Elvis was going to deal with, everything was absolutely controlled, since the songs did not imply any vocal effort for him and neither for the musicians who were used to improvising if there was something different. But Elvis was never a musician to make large variations , that is to say that in the previous rehearsals he rehearsed more or less as he was going to sing . Although it is true that he sometimes made some variation at the end or during the song, this is obviously the result of the moment and what he could feel while singing. It is the most logical thing for a singer to do, just as an instrumentalist can do. For this reason, when he chose a new musician, Elvis demanded that he be able to improvise on the spot and above all that he be able to follow his interpretation to the end. It was the only way to be able to sing really to his liking and freely if he felt the score differently at the time.
His repertoire had a lot to offer this Season compared to the previous two. Elvis was looking for himself again in Las Vegas.
"Following the Path of the King..."

A curious song for his repertoire that as usual had been a success, but this time from the 60's, Elvis chose the song "You Are The Reason I'm Living", composed and performed by Bobby Darin. It would be a huge hit in 1963, peaking at number 3 on Billboard's Hot 100 singles chart and peaked at number 9 on the Hot R&B Singles chart.
A quiet song, with country-style accompaniment, a ballad in which Elvis turns his interpretation but really, although it was a hit song at his time, in 1975 it did not have much to contribute to his repertoire. It is true that he was right most of the time in his choices, but in some cases it was evident that there would not be much to say about this song.
Elvis began singing it in March 1975 at his concerts, but he would not officially record it. It would be released on some bootleg release like "The Memphis Flash Hits Las Vegas", before an official release on "Live In Las Vegas" in 2001, and the FTD "Big Boss man" release in 2005, etc.

Walden Robert Cassotto known by his stage name Bobby Darin. He was a composer, singer and actor, born on May 14, 1936.
Eternal young man sang various styles, Folk, Country, Pop, Jazz...
He was a highly talented artist, with a very hard childhood, he lived in poverty and in fragile health, always with heart problems, it was believed that he would not live beyond fifteen years, he finally reached 37 years.
He would stand out for his ease with music and instruments. He came to play the piano, the drums, the guitar, the harmonica, the xylophone, as well as having a warm and sensitive voice. He became a youth idol in the 50's and 60's. His first hit in 1958 was a rock "Splish splash". Known for his cover of Mack The Knife, for "Beyond The Sea," Grammy Award winner, also an Oscar nominee for a supporting role in "Pressure Point."
He went on to have his own show on NBC television, "The Bobby Darin Amusement Company".
https://youtu.be/diQZc7LJY_c

The truth is that during the concerts it is very possible that although Elvis Presley's fans were delighted with his songs, they might miss the spectacularity that he gave previously with songs that were certainly more risky vocally. Elvis had settled in at this time, possibly for health, not to risk and to be able to offer a correct show. He was picking a lot of country style songs, some rock and definitely no hit songs on his shows, just occasionally. In addition, in this Season he stopped doing his characteristic karate movements and did not demonstrate either. This would surely be for the same reason, but Colonel Parker would be happier, because he didn't like the last demonstrations he was doing on stage at all.
In any case, the characteristic in this 12th Season would be to carry out his show naturally, with closeness to his audience but without wanting to attract excessive attention with conversations. Possibly the criticism that he had during the previous season made him reflect on what he should or should not offer on stage.
https://youtu.be/Rsl35L6Cs9Q

Another curious song that he chose in this Season was the song "Little Darlin", since it was also a hit from the year 1957. The song was written by Maurice Williams, with melody and doo-wop accompaniment. First recorded in January 1957 by Williams' group The Gladiolas, released as a single. But the success came to the Diamonds group that published it a month later, reaching number 2. It would be covered by many artists apart from Elvis, The Four Seasons, The Monkees, Joan Baez, etc.
https://youtu.be/eFwcBVGLQM0
It was a song that encouraged the public, although the version of Elvis was taken from the original hit. But what was clear is that he had a lot of fun singing it and the audience was also happy. This song began to sing it in March 1975, but never officially recorded it. There is an amusing live version of the 1977 Elvis concert in Saginaw, Michigan, which was released on the latest "Elvis, Moody Blue" album.

Alternate live performances of the tune inspired by The Ink Spot, have appeared on the Elvis Aron Presley and FTD live albums "Big Boss Man", "Dixieland Rocks", "Southern Nights" and "Spring Tours '77", etc
A tape recording of Elvis singing along with the Diamonds at Eddie Fadal's home in Texas in 1958 came out on the "Forever Young" bootleg, "Forever Beautiful."
https://youtu.be/Z7P9Mh6bCzQ
"Following the Path of the King..."

One of the days of shows at the Hilton Hotel, something unusual would happen. Although Elvis Presley was adored by his fans, both men and women, usually the ones who used to get close to him, were mostly the girls, they wanted kisses, scarves, hugs or simply wipe the sweat from his face. But in some cases the men also approached him, something that disturbed Elvis a lot since it was not usual. In this show, a man got up on stage to get closer to him, walking very slowly, which surprised him. Quickly and in a matter of seconds, Red West would run to help Elvis, he would simply move to the side, but what would be his surprise when he saw that the man simply hugged him. Elvis had a great sensitivity and he would immediately realize that this poor man had some mental problem, but he saw in his eyes the affection that he was giving him.
When Red grabbed him, Elvis told Red to just let him go. He took the scarf he had around his neck and placed it gently around the man's neck. All the audience, even Red who didn't see his face directly, were perplexed, because it was something very unexpected. Elvis then spoke quietly to the man, then put his arm around his shoulders and led him to the side of the stage, where they both disappeared for a few minutes in which Elvis was able to speak to him. Then he took his watch that he was wearing and put it on his fan's wrist.
After this Elvis would go back on stage to finish his show. Later Elvis wanted to know more about the man and learned that he had suffered brain damage at birth and that his family had taken him to Las Vegas so he could see his idol. The parents knew that Elvis had made him very happy with his music.
When Elvis asked him why he had grabbed him, what he said would be: "I didn't want you to leave. I love you, Elvis."
Elvis spent some time with him and his family and everyone was happy and satisfied.

This was another proof of the love that Elvis showed his fans and the adoration that they had for Elvis.
"Following the Path of the King..."

August 1975, Elvis Presley again has to perform in Las Vegas, but his health will be decisive in the coming months in which all his physical problems will be discovered. Until December of the same year, everything will be decisive as to what may happen, Elvis will be medically controlled, but he has to take care of himself and follow medical advice to avoid having major problems.
The two Seasons, one short in August and the next in December as a compromise due to the cancellation of these days and end the year with a concert on December 31. Everyone around Elvis knows that it is necessary for him to follow all medical instructions and stop using drugs to recover physically.
Doctor Nick tells Parker that he needs to cut back on the Concert schedule if he wants Elvis to get back on his feet and continue living. But really, luck is sometimes uncertain, since circumstances could benefit or hinder depending on the person himself. Elvis wanted to be well and followed medical advice, but over time his routine would remain the same.
The Colonel intended to at least compensate the Hilton Hotel in December in order to meet his commitments. But the year 1976 would once again be an active year of concerts, for various reasons, the main one being economic, since Elvis was spending a lot of money and would end the year with other types of unexpected circumstances. He had to make decisions and solve everything that was happening, during Seasons 13 and 14 in Las Vegas...

The premiere of Elvis in Las Vegas in August 1975 would be criticized by the press, which as always tried to make it look bad. Variety published an article saying: The premiere was a disaster, he was chubby, he showed a great lack of energy and vocal projection. Elvis Presley finds it difficult to maintain commendable lines or adjust to lyrical demands, making his desperate attempt to get where he yearns more than evident...
 Almost all the members of the group took long breaks on stage and to top it off, they move awkwardly when trying to emulate karate moves or their classic pelvic swings. Presley says his suit cost him $2,500, but the truth is that the design only succeeds in exaggerating his bloated stomach."


 The truth is that this criticism, although harsh, told the great truth of what could be considered an incorrect show, although for the fans its reality was always different. Neither Elvis was in good health, nor could he sing as usual, despite having a good voice since his discomfort prevented him from singing correctly. The correct thing is that the Shows had been canceled from the first day, but since it was not possible, Elvis tried to overcome his discomfort as he could and helped by the musicians who knew that it was not right. But the public did realize the state that Elvis had, because this time he could not hide it even if he did everything possible to make things right.
 Although it is true that his good humor made things happen in a different way and the novelty that had already been done on the July tour, of passing an ice bucket so that the public could make their requests and sing what they wanted. But this shows the great insecurity of Elvis at this time, because he would never have let the public choose and always had a chosen and rehearsed repertoire. There were surprises like hearing him sing "Loving You" or "Crying in the Chapel" again, etc. Charlie would take out the piece of paper with the song and if Elvis didn't remember the lyrics he would signal for him to pick up another one, his repertoire was huge and it was normal for him not to remember all the songs.
 It was a way of compensating his fans because the repertoire was stuffy and that surprise factor was needed.
 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0OEQt3xDwCk


 In the second concert Elvis lay down on stage after singing the first song and at midnight he would come running on stage saying he had come from the bathroom, so he would retell the anecdote about the lady who was at the football game.
 The third day Elvis couldn't take it anymore and he told the Colonel that they had to cancel, but the audience was already in his seats, he was full and they didn't let him. At the end Elvis staggered out of the elevator and they had to take him to his room, the next day he was no longer there.
 He had to cancel the rest of the shows alleging illness, posters, photographs, etc. were removed. Elvis would leave the Hilton Hotel at six in the morning directly for Memphis to enter Baptist Memorial Hospital in the same room on the eighteenth floor where he had previously been.


 Colonel Parker had to assume that there was a real reason for illness that could not be controlled and that could cause Elvis to behave unpredictably again and like everyone else, he no longer knew how to treat him. Everything had gotten complicated and they had to agree to do the performances in December to comply with what had been agreed.
 "Following the Path of the King..."

The Repertoire chosen by Elvis in this Season included songs that he had already sung on many occasions, such as "See See Rider", "Love Me Tender", "One Night", etc. But curiously he didn't sing as many old-time rock classics or many medleys that he always used to include in his list of songs. Elvis was alternating in the Seasons in Las Vegas and in the Tours some of the songs he had recently recorded such as "Fairytale", "And I love you so", with the intention of making the Show fresher. He normally took up songs that he hadn't sung in the last few shows, such as "Just Pretend", "My Way" or "Softly as I leave you".
Although it seemed to be very varied and it was not the same as always, they were still songs that they had already performed on many occasions. Because it was December, he would sing a Christmas song for his fans "Blue Christmas" and he would take the opportunity to congratulate them on the holidays.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=orn8Pw8NdHg

The great novelty of these shows was "America The Beautiful", which would impact the public in an emotional way. Initially it was a traditional song written by Katherine Lee Bates in 1895 to which the music of Samuel Augustus Ward was added.
Elvis knew how to cause this effect with his interpretation of a song that made the audience rise from their seats and invited them to join in with his singing. A song with years of tradition in the history of the United States, it was a tribute to the bicentennial that was going to be fulfilled. With this interpretation and adding to a standing audience dedicated, you could feel in the environment that pride and patriotism that made them put their hands on their chests singing.
Elvis sang from his heart and would awaken that national feeling in the audience, a powerful and mature performance.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iv8OEC1vBU8

He would sing the song "My way" again after a long time, Elvis felt more secure with the repertoire and this logically meant that he could sing better and with more feeling. The only thing that could blur his performances would be his movements that were not so agile due to the weight and logically this was felt in his performances, but he sang so well that it would be of little importance.
Regardless of whether the musicians got tired of playing the same thing, the fact is that the public was delighted with his December shows and Elvis seemed to be happy with what he was doing. Fortunately in this Season his humor and his attitude were the best before his fans.
"Following the Path of the King..."

2 to 15 December. Hilton Hotel Season 14 In this new Las Vegas Hilton Season, Elvis would premiere three new costumes, which had already been designed months before, in the spring of 1975 by Gene Doucette. They were more showy and less ornate than the recent ones that Elvis had worn, in addition to returning to white again as the base of the suit and adding new decorations. The effect that they are trying to achieve with the suit appears with the scene light and gives it more showiness. They were the "V-Neck Suit", "Rainfall Suit" and "White Egyptian Bird Suit". Elvis also wore some earlier ones like the "Eskimo Totem Pole Suit", "White Phoenix Suit", maybe "Chicken Rib Suit", "Indian Chief Suit". At this time December 1975, Elvis is still overweight because he really can't lose weight. , since her belly is swollen for health reasons and it is also difficult for her to lose weight as she did before. This sometimes forces changes in costume designs and especially so that he is not uncomfortable on stage.

This would be the last season that Elvis would perform at the Hilton Hotel in Las Vegas, since 1969 when he had started singing at the same Hotel when it was called International, many things had happened in his personal and artistic life. An enthusiastic and overwhelming beginning that promised success and a life full of happiness, everything seemed easy, the public fell at his feet and remained faithful to him for years. Elvis Presley's evolution as an artist and his success grew but over time, his feeling of boredom and tiredness seemed to be a difficult problem to solve. In December 1976 Elvis struggled to perform without health problems and without having to feel like he was in a glass box.
On December 2 he began his 15th Season, without knowing that it would be the last one he was going to perform at the Hilton Hotel that had contributed so much to his legend as an artist, with good and bad moments, but in the end it was like a house where he could do things their way.
In this season Elvis was accompanied by Ginger Alden, her presence reactivated his enthusiasm and the last tour and the two weeks he was going to perform at the Hilton benefited from this.

On opening night Elvis performed an hour and 40 minutes long performance with 2,200 people coming from all over to enjoy his performance.
During the first week the shows went well, but on the sixth show Elvis tripped when he was in the Hilton room before going on stage, hurting his ankle. From then on, acting would be painful for him and this would be reflected on stage. In the following days the quality of the shows was variable, since there were more influences that affected Elvis. His father had been admitted to the hospital again, for a heart attack that in the end was nothing and also Ginger's attitude that he wanted to keep by his side at all costs.
Despite having a new partner Elvis needed something more, she said she would like to go home to rest, but he flew her parents to join her and had his driver buy her a Lincoln Continental.
During his stay in Las Vegas Elvis sprained his ankle and at times had his ups and downs, one night he would throw a microphone into the audience to great surprise. He then shouted:
"Does anyone want this little son of a bitch?" . "I hate Las Vegas."
This type of negative reaction and insecurity reflected his mood that he sometimes couldn't control.
"Following the Way of the King..."

  On December 2nd at the opening show it was great, she sang about 25 songs with a lot of enthusiasm from Elvis. In good vocal form Elvis performed exceptionally well, he was less swollen and his movements were looser, but he was also more tired. At the end of the show Elvis performed songs in a moving way, the songs "Hurt", "Hound Dog" and the song "Hawaiian wedding Song", etc.
Elvis took his acoustic guitar and told the audience that he wanted to accompany himself on his guitar, although he added that there were several people who didn't believe he could really play it and they were right...
Glen Campbell, the singer, who was sitting in the audience, stood up and said loudly to Elvis: "If I had a voice like yours, I wouldn't worry about it."
play the guitar!" This would prove once again that Elvis was respected not only by the public, but also by the artists who witnessed his performances.

Elvis Presley started strong in his performances at the Hilton Hotel, but little by little he became deflated and many could see that he was sad in recent days. He again talked too much or not at all, he also cursed the sound equipment saying that he would not go on stage again with those microphones. Colonel Parker, who had lost a lot of money at the Casino, was also worried about Elvis because he knew that his artist was out of control. Elvis was tired and on the penultimate day of the concert he told one of the Choir boys: "there's only one more night left" with a vomit-like expression on his face. It was evident that he couldn't stand the atmosphere in Las Vegas anymore, despite Ginger being with him.
Larry Geller commented that Elvis was not feeling well, despite what he said, one day he found him sweaty with a strange and distressed look. He would stare at him and when he got up he would lose his balance saying that he had drunk too much or that someone had given him something he shouldn't have. He then said "I'm going to leave my body. I'm dying." Fortunately she was with Larry who managed to get her through this moment and called Dr. Ghanem, who told her not to worry about him because he would come see him later. Elvis continued overmedicating and this had an impact on his health and this doctor seemed to know this and downplayed it.

The last performance at the Hilton Hotel was even more worrying for everyone because Elvis couldn't concentrate even he seemed sleepy. Another example of his state of mind was when he asked television evangelist Rex Humbard to come on the show to talk to him. In his dressing room Elvis asked him if he should stop singing and dedicate himself to the Lord. Then the preacher told him that he was already following the Way of the Lord with his music helping people. Although Elvis initially calmed down he later began to talk about the apocalypse and the second Coming of Christ. The preacher told him he would pray for him and Elvis began to cry.
Many wondered why he would go out on stage in these conditions, even why he was allowed to do so, but the real person responsible was lost inside him because he was looking for reasons for his life.
"Following the Way of the King...".

During the December 1976 performances, Elvis' bodyguards consisting of Dick Grob, Sam Thompson, Tom Hensley and all members of Elvis' security team often sat on the sides of the stage to protect him. In this way the Fans were very close and made requests to be able to get closer to Elvis, sometimes they offered them gifts so that they could meet him or simply receive a scarf or a kiss. But many could never fulfill their wish, so they left disappointed. Fans often brought him handmade gifts and they took it upon themselves to bring them closer to Elvis. The demonstration of affection, unconditional loyalty and adoration was always reflected in Elvis's fans who would do the unspeakable to be able to see him in person.

Ed Parker said that one night in Las Vegas he saw a trio of girls carrying three large dolls. The girls wanted to give this gift to Elvis and hoped that he would give them a scarf. Dawn, the Hall's photographer, took the girls to the showroom, so Ed could attract Elvis and meet them.
The figures were made with great detail in their faces, in their royal robes they represented the three Wise Men. Ed asked them, "Who made the wise men?" One of the girls said, "I did it." I nodded, "Okay, you can come with me." The girls were crying because they all wanted to meet him and he had to take them to Jackie Kahane's dressing room. .
Elvis was coming out dressed to receive his guests when Ed called him to the dressing room. He knew he had broken the rules for him to meet these girls and Elvis came over to find out what he wanted.
"What's wrong, Ed? Is something wrong?" Elvis said, to which Ed replied, "Just get in this room, Elvis." I guided him and Ginger to Jackie Kahane's dressing room and said in a friendly manner, “I had to bring you here, Elvis, to show you the beautiful gifts these lovely fans of yours brought you. “I know it’s against the rules, but after seeing the loving workmanship, I knew you would want them.” Elvis told him that he had done well and treated his fans with affection and amazement at his gift.
Elvis was enchanted by the Three Wise Men and the girls cried when they saw him, they were excited and it was his joy that made his tears flow, it would be a magical moment between Elvis and his three admirers. Then they received the 3 scarves that they had so longed to have and they left very happy with their happy faces and Elvis included the three wise men in his private collection.
Three days after this, Ed Parker received a beautiful thank you card from Georgia Allen, the creator of the dolls, with whom he corresponded for years.
"Following the Way of the King...".

On December 5th there would be a performance with a lot of humor by Elvis who was very happy because Priscilla and her parents were in the room. Elvis would show himself to the public with jokes and confessions saying: "There is someone in the room that I love very much! You all know it", looking at Priscilla he continued speaking, "Priscilla, his mother and father are here. He is retired from the force aerial. This is the first time you've seen me in 2 years. I'll dedicate the next song to him.
because....he is crazy. This song has a lot of work, I have three Indians who come and translate it."
Then Charlie Hodge appears and gives him some sheets of lyrics, Elvis says:
"This is not the right song!" , Elvis then smiles: "There you see, I made it seem like it was their fault, but they didn't even know about this." Following his usual banter, Elvis poured water on Charlie when he returned and Charlie responded by throwing the contents of a glass at him. Then Elvis jumped back and made contact with the microphone as if he had received an electric shock...then he sang the song "My way" for the Beaulieu family.
Elvis continued with jokes and laughter and the audience enjoyed his games and songs, they responded to everything he did and the atmosphere in the Hilton Room was one of indescribable love between the artist and his fans.
All of this would be before Elvis was injured at one of the shows he did a day later.

A curiosity before starting one of his performances, the audience could see something happening behind the stage and when Jackie Kahane came out jokingly they were able to understand with surprise what had happened.
Jackie jokingly told them, "There's a guy here with a bunch of scarves on his back who said Elvis fell and sprained his ankle."
She continued with her jokes and finally the orchestra gave way to Elvis's entrance, when Charlie Hodge appeared on the still dark stage to adjust the microphone.
Elvis then comes on stage limping slightly, and apologizes saying that he had tripped on the stairs leading out of the bathroom and sprained his ankle."
Elvis tries to ignore the mishap, he seemed to be in a good mood. Even though his first songs were correct, there was laughter and jokes when he sang the song.
"Sweet Caroline", Elvis would start falsely but forgets the lyrics of it. The truth is that it was not a regular song in his show and due to the pain in his ankle he could have been unfocused, because at the end of the show he was very upset and tired.
The next day Elvis seemed to be deflated and in trouble due to the painkillers so he put on a short and weak show. The public that had always applauded him well even with setbacks, in this case he would be very subdued and collected.
From this day on, Elvis' shows were declining and in general it would be a disappointment. Fortunately, on the 11th, Elvis was already more recovered and he would put on a good show and sing again like the first days.
Another incident at the end of the Season would be the health of his father Vernon, who was taken to the Hospital for his heart problems and this worried Elvis a lot.
"Following the Way of the King..."