About the song
“Elvis in Concert,” both a television special and a live album released by RCA Records in October 1977, stands as a poignant tribute to the legendary performer Elvis Presley, capturing some of his final live performances before his untimely passing. Recorded over two days in June 1977 at concerts in Omaha, Nebraska, and Rapid City, South Dakota, the album and special were originally intended to showcase Presley’s enduring stage presence and musical prowess.
Produced by Felton Jarvis, a longtime collaborator with Presley, the recordings were initially part of a planned television special. However, Presley’s declining health prompted a delay in the project. Tragically, after his death in August 1977, the decision was made to proceed with the special as a memorial to the iconic artist.
The album “Elvis in Concert” features performances that capture Presley’s emotive delivery and his ability to connect with audiences through his music. While some tracks received overdubs of backing vocals and instrumentation after his passing, the essence of Presley’s live performances remains intact, showcasing his repertoire of hits alongside lesser-known songs that highlight his versatility as a performer.
Notably, the special includes memorable moments such as Presley’s rendition of Paul Anka’s “My Way,” where he famously uses a lyric sheet, and an unconventional take on “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” where he playfully alters the spoken word section. These performances, despite their imperfections, provide a candid glimpse into Presley’s stage persona and his enduring charisma.
The soundtrack album, originally released as a double LP set and later reissued on CD, includes additional tracks not featured in the televised special, offering fans a comprehensive collection of Presley’s final live recordings officially released by RCA Records. Despite critiques of the original LP’s sound quality, the reissue in 1992 aimed to preserve the historical significance of these performances for future generations of listeners.
“Elvis in Concert” remains a testament to Presley’s enduring legacy and his impact on popular music. Beyond its commercial success and critical reception, the album serves as a poignant reminder of Presley’s final chapter as a live performer, leaving behind a musical legacy that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Video
Lyrics
And now the end is near
So I face the final curtain
My friend, I’ll say it clear
I’ll state my case of which I’m certain
I’ve lived a life that’s full
I’ve traveled each and every highway
And more, much more than this
I did it my way
Regrets, I’ve had a few
But then again, too few to mention
I did what I had to do
And saw it through without exception
I planned each charted course
Each careful step along the byway
And more, much more than this
I did it my way
Yes, there were times, I’m sure you know
That I bit off more than I could chew
But through it all when there was doubt
I ate it up and spit it out
I faced it all and I stood tall
And did it my way
I’ve loved, I’ve laughed and cried
I’ve had my fill, my share of losing
And now as tears subside
I find it all so amusing
To think I did all that
And may I say, not in a shy way
Oh, no, no not me
I did it my way
For what is a man, what has he got
If not himself, then he has not
To say the words he truly feels
And not the words of one who kneels
The record shows I took the blows
And did it my way