When I was a young boy (66 years old now) I lived in Shreveport, Louisiana. This was the home of the Louisiana Hayride. This is where Elvis first began to become known, and accordingly, famous. I went and saw Elvis Presley playing at the Hayride more than once and I can tell you for a fact that Elvis Presley did play the guitar. Was he a "Tommy Emmanuel" or a "Thom Breck"? No, he was not. Was he the single most captivating, entertaining, "set the crowd on fire" thing that ever got up on that stage? YES!!!!!!! By the way, I also saw him in Southern Maid Donuts at the intersection of Hearne Avenue and Greenwood Road which was the ONLY company for which Elvis Presley EVER did a commercial. It was required of everyone who played at the Lousiana Hayride to do a commercial for Southern Maid Donuts. They also had to autograph at least one photograph to hang on the wall at the donut shop. many years later my dad, brother, and I worked as stage hands for major concerts in Shreveport. We worked for Ohio Players, Earth, Wind, & Fire, Diana Ross, Chicago, Three Dog Night, Merle Haggard, and many, many others. Twice during this period of my life I was blessed to work an Elvis Presley concert. I had the pleasure of speaking with him briefly and I will tell you he was a very respectful human being who was still filled with humility when you got to speak with him one on one. Again, I will tell you from first hand knowledge Elvis Presley did play the guitar. I heard him rehearsing for his concerts and doing sound checks. Some of the most treasured memories of my life.
Wow, you are so Lucky!!! To have seen Elvis before he was ELVIS!!!! and then to actually see him out in public too is just amazing. I'm 42 so unfortunately I wasnt born until 2 years after he died so obviously I've only gotten to see and hear everything he left behind for us. Luckily my Aunt who babysat me from the time I was only a few months old until I was a teenager was a Huge Elvis fan so she always had his records playing so I've been a fan since basically birth. To the point that Elvis was the only music I listened to on my own until the mid to late 80s when I found MTV and became a fan of many of the Hard Rock bands of the period like Bon Jovi, Guns N' Roses, Poison and many others. But still to this day my favorite Artist is still Elvis.
Thank you. All of a sudden Elvis is under the microscope? OK, so what he didn't write his own songs either, but he could certainly sing them. So many ppl today don't write their own music, or play instruments. Elvis, if he were still alive would be able to out sing, any one of these so called artists today. Without autotune. Elvis cannot be compared to anyone today. He's the original. Self made, self taught, and most handsome of any musicians since.
@@janetduncan87 Absolutely 100% No one could come close back in the musical heydays so there definitely is no way any of these clowns that give the words musician and entertainer a bad name today could. Elvis on his worst day is still a million times better than anything out there today on their best day.
Fil -- you are, hands-down, the classiest guy on RUclips. I only wish I was 50 years younger and had some shred of musical talent, as I would sign up for all of your classes. Don't ever get discouraged by the doubters. They are only a tiny handful of the thousands and thousands who admire and respect you.
When Elvis told the audience that he faked it for a long time, he was referring to his movie career, where everything is fake. It was at the same time a sarcastic remark because he knew what they were saying about him. In the meantime he was a better musician than what he got credited for. Thank you FIL for standing up for him.
@@flemit35exactly. He was aware of the criticism he was getting even in the '50s and there is a recorded interview with him where Elvis lashes out at critics who were calling his teenage fans idiots. And he was speaking very passionately in defense of them. The interviewer made reference to the fact that a critic said he couldn't play guitar well or sing and Elvis said that's true I can't play or sing. That's how he was. He was more upset with the critics going after the fans then he was about the critics saying he couldn't sing or play. And obviously he could do both.
Elvis never struck me as a faker. He was an honest guy. He played from his soul. He was as nervous as hell on the that 68 come back special. He did a damn good job in my eyes. Thanks Fil, for standing by the King.
I heard that Elvis was so nervous that he was going to back out & sent for the producer to tell him. When the guy had only minutes to spare, he went back & got right in Elvis’ face & told him that, “Oh yes you ARE going out there! Ive put everything into the Come-back Special & yr going out there!” The rest is History!!! Elvis was in his prime in every single way!!! 👏👏👏👏👏♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
@@d.b.4201 Gosh yes. Imagine the pressure on Elvis. Well, he got the kick he needed and was unforgettable. He was able to channel his nerves into performing. What a relief. Some people focus. Some people fold. Elvis just got better.
I saw that video of him in his later years where he says "I fooled them all these years." He was mocking those who claimed he couldn't really play the guitar. One thing he had was a sense of humor. If you watch the rehearsals he did at MGM studios for his 1970 film and concert, he also plays the guitar quite well there. Is he Eddie Van Halen? No, but he is competent. He surrounded himself with James Burton and Scotty Moore so he could focus on being the frontman. Great video Fil.
I’m 52 years old and have been playing guitar since I was 7. I’ve seen the Elvis comeback special many times and have always been struck by that performance and especially by the fact that Elvis, quite obviously, plays that guitar himself, and very well! Don’t be discouraged by one person’s comment. You’re doing important work here. You’re helping preserve history! Side note...Elvis was a master at distancing himself perfectly from that mic thus making it very easy for live mixing. He was an enormous talent but also a masterful performer. Keep up the great work WOP!
....1st......This is hair- splitting as anything can be....Elvis knows what he's doing...that's a fact....and...Wings of Pegasus knows what he's doing also....that's a fact....
At first I was surprised to see Fil get so bent out of shape by one person's comments. But as I watched it showed me Fil's true level of professionalism and that he takes his work very seriously. He is not one of these typical RUclips reactors who is not a musician or just a beginner or intermediate level. He may not be the level of Stevie Ray Vaughan or Roy Clark but he is definitely a professional level guitarist who knows what he is talking about. I challenge Nuheritage to do a video to show us his or her skill level.
Yeah, Fil is clearly a musician. So was Elvis, he was a pro and likely knew he would need to really work hard to come up to the level as many session players. That's the sign of a pro.
If Elvis was faking, you proved that he would have had to work harder to fake it with that much detail than he would have had to work to just play it! Thanks for defending Elvis' honor. He had his demons that ultimately were his undoing at a relatively young age but those who knew him before the sad last years of his life said he was a kind and honest man with more natural talent than most people would ever have. RIP Elvis.
Christopher Smith 😂😂😂 When I first read your comment, I thought you were responding to one of my comments. I am old enough to be Fil’s mom and my kids are older. Provided my laugh for the night.
@@christophersmith2544 Er no, I don't know Fil although I wouldn't mind doing so. I may be a fellow Brit but I live a long way from Fil, in the southern China island of Hainan.
Scotty Moore says he was surprised when Elvis asked him during this segment of the 68 special "Man can I borrow your axe" Scotty handed Elvis his guitar which had the only amp on stage and Elvis gave Scotty the box guitar he was playing" From that point on its Elvis playing the only amped guitar on that square stage during that sit down show" Steve Bender the producer of the 68 special had heard Elvis, Scotty, DJ Fontana and others jamming in Elvis' dressing room at the NBC Burbank studios and it was then he decided to have the sit down segment because of the stories they were telling and the atmosphere it created. Nothing on the sit down shows was over dubbed-it was suppose to be like the dressing room jams. There was a general line up sheet that Steve wrote down based on the stories he heard Elvis and crew telling and the songs they jammed on...but nothing was over dubbed. IF you watch other portions of the sit down segments after Elvis borrows Scottys electric Elvis plays Blue Christmas, Trying to Get to You, Tiger Man, and several others playing all on Scottys guitar. The only canned music in that segment was the New Song "Memories" written by Mac Davis for the special ...during that song the music was canned but Elvis' vocal was live. The gentleman who seems to think this was all faked is 100% wrong. Elvis played rhythm guitar on all the Sun records, he played on several of his first RCA records and also played piano on several songs in his catalogue. If you watch the 1957 Elvis film "Jailhouse Rock" listen to the song "Baby I don't Care" in the film. When the soundtrack was recorded for the film-Elvis' bass player at the time Bill Black had a very hard time with the prominent bass riffs on this song-he did not like the electric bass they wanted him to use so he gave up in a huff during that session.....Elvis picked up the electric bass and had it down in an hour exactly the way it was suppose to be. Johnny Cash. who toured with Elvis in the 50s. said this "Elvis was one of the best rhythm guitarists I ever saw back then and very seldom gets credit for his playing" Pretty good praise from a guy who should know.
@@KenTeel "one of the best rhythm guitarist." Cash saw Elvis perform live in Memphis before Cash was famous. The girls noticed Elvis moving. But Cash being a musician noticed the performance including his thought on the guitar.
I would like to add something. In 1957, during the soundtrack recording for the movie Jailhouse Rock, there was a song called Baby, I Don't Care. The song started out with a bass intro. Normally his bass player Bill Black played upright bass, but this time an electric bass was about to be used. For some reason Bill didn't get the intro right and after a few tries he grew frustrated and dropped the bass on the studio floor. Elvis picked it up and played the bass part himself. That's the type of musician he was.
Pretty impressive when you really think about it. He'd never played an electric bass before, but he had the natural ability to just pick it up and play it.
He was definitely a singer first and foremost. But he didn't pretend to be something he wasn't. He wasn't great with the guitar but he didn't claimed he was either. He wasn't a great actor, but he didn't claimed that he was either. In the end, it's a rather rude thing to claim that someone is faking if the person really isn't. So a great reason for this video.
@@ronh.798 Definitely a showman. But all sold records wasn't because he was a great showman but because he was a fantastic singer. It's the singer - and not the showman - I'm enjoying on the majority of records. It's only on the live recordings I get a chance to listen to the showman with the in-between talk.
@@perwestermark8920 Geat point about records sold, though one could argue records sold were at least enhanced due to his performances. He was seen on tv after all. That and his pretty-boy looks, and you have the complete comercial package. Not to mention he got his 1st. guitar @ 8 yrs. old, so you can damn wel bet he knew how to play!
I Care About His Guitar Playing The Ma Fucker could actually Play... He Was A Songster 1st And Foremost The Perfect singer who could Deliver A Song Y'all Missing it
I read Roy Clark's autobiography, and he complimented Elvis' guitar playing, said that you can tell by this '68 TV special that Elvis was a good guitar player. This, from ROY CLARK himself! He also stated that Elvis simply hadn't had the time to get great on the guitar, because he got famous so fast, that he never really had the chance - or took the time - to master the instrument. Seeing that Roy Clark Himself was reasonably impressed with Elvis' guitar playing, is impressive. Regarding Scotty Moore, he has stated, himself, that HE had no time to get really excellent at guitar-playing, because once he got hooked up with Elvis, they got so famous and so busy so fast, that Moore himself didn't have time to continue working on becoming an outstanding guitarist. The main problem with Elvis' playing in the early years, was he played SO HARD, that he kept breaking all the strings and destroying borrowed guitars after he'd broken all his own strings. People weren't too happy to lend Elvis their guitar, only to find that after he'd used it for a few songs, it was destroyed! {Jerry Lee did the same thing to pianos. Elvis didn't let Jerry Lee play the piano at Graceland, 'cause Elvis knew all too well what the Killer would do to the instrument.}
I've heard from I believe it was Billy Smith that Jerry actually did come over to Graceland and he and Elvis played the piano together and sung several songs in the Early days. He even said he wished he had a tape recorder when it happened because it was some of most beautiful music he'd ever heard.
@@rwieber79 and Billy wasn't biased, oh no. Seriously though, both men were capable of creating beauty, I've always loved Jerry's recording of "Lucky Old Sun", for instance.
@@stewartfenton7660 Idk if it was Billy for sure or not, but either way the story wasn't being told in a way to make either of them look bad. He was simply saying that they actually were pretty good friends and they sounded amazing together. I've always been much more of an Elvis fan but I do like alot of Jerry's music too. And there's no denying how amazing of piano player Jerry is even to this day in his 80s. Those guys are 2 of the greatest entertainers to ever live and there will never be anything like either of them either.
When Elvis said he was faking it, he had a smile on his face. I agree with your analysis but I also think there was a touch of self-effacing humour - for which he was famous - creeping in there. Great video thank you.
Elvis played guitar, bass, piano, and drums, and he did things vocally that many vocalists wish they could do. When Elvis walked on stage, he took over the room like few people could. Entertainer, Showman.
@@dirtysanchez941 Keep in mind he doesn't have to "play fluently" singers and songwriters often, use a instrument to figure out a verse, phrasing, transition or how a song sounds! We're not talking, "one man concerts" here.
I’m really impressed by your patience, honesty and diplomatic ”tone” towards this accusation - awesome video. It’s also pretty obvious to me that you’ll have a hard time faking the guitarplaying in a three piece setting during those early years with Scotty and Bill
Yes I agree with you completely here. And Scotty Moore always was very impressed that that great great wonderful first song they did that's all right Mama begins with Elvis alone in the open Rhythm and the rest is history. He was not a technical player or a great Blues Man like a BB King or some of those other Giants in the field but that's not what he was about. And from everything I've ever heard ,Elvis Presley played guitar just fine and with really a lot of good spirit and appropriate to the songs and really could rock the house and was a sensitive wise and meaningful player of guitar on songs that demanded precisely what he was playing especially on the early album where he really does contribute.
I wouldn't actually call him good. Elvis could barely keep up and was mostly carried by his band members. I'm only speaking of his guitar playing, not anything else.
WAY TO GO, FIL for standing up for artists who are not being given credit for their work. Your demonstration provides proof positive that Elvis was playing live. Even a person like me, who doesn't play an instrument, can see it. Your rant is quite appropriate, honestly and integrity are your hallmarks. 😻
Then again, talking about credit where credit is due... Elvis did get some songwriting credits (because royalties) for a lot of songs he did not write. It's the music business I guess
I saw Elvis 12 times in concert. Sat in the first row several times AND Elvis did play the guitar and played it beautifully!!! He loved music and put his soul into everything he did!! He played the guitar his way, while others played with him their way!! ( you are so right!) At an Elvis concert ,Elvis' voice alone was EVERYTHING!! He was phenomenal!! Yes he played the guitar, and everything else .. He was great!!
Elvis was the guitarist in a trio with Bill Black (bass) during the early 50's .... Kinda hard to 'fake it' when you're the only guitarist in a 3-peice band .. just sayin'....
I would particularly recommend "Mystery Train" for his very early rhythm guitar. He led the band, deciding the chord changes on what was supposed to be just a rehearsal take. Sam Phillips burst out of the control room to stop them. It was done! The song was cut before they cut the first "real" take! Sam said "That's a (bleep)ing masterpiece!" They just looked at each other like "it is?" It was. Scotty's solo is also absolutely majestic. I think it's his best. In less than a year, Scotty went from an average, nondescript country picker to a stunning R&B player. Part of it was the synergy between Scotty and Elvis. Elvis really knew the blues, both Mississippi Hill Country Blues (very different style: repetitive and percussive) and the Delta Blues he heard on radio, and later on records. And Delta bluesmen often stopped off near where Elvis lived in the almost all-black Park Hill section of Tupelo. They'd play at the black Elks Club there. Louis Jordan even played at that Elks Club. So, where Scotty was strictly a lead guitarist, the back-and-forth synergy with a very young but very intense bluesman who played rhythm guitar and sang the blues turned Scotty into one of the greatest lead guitarists ever. It was a unique journey for all three of them, but especially for Elvis and Scotty. You can hear them talking to one another in the Sun studio on new releases of all the existing Sun sessions.
Most male rock "stars" are ugly, plain, or ordinary looking. Some have an unusualness to them. Most probably thought/think that they were "lady killers", but it was mainly their stardom. EP is one of the few who was really gorgeous to look at. No wonder they're jealous. Plus, somehow, his handsome gorgeousness translated into his voice and music. They couldn't do that. It wasn't in them.
He didn't fake it, Thom, but it was Elvis on rhythm guitar, Black on bass and Scotty Moore on lead guitar. Hence, Elvis wasn't the only guitarist, while DJ Fontana - the drummer - was the individual added on later.
I doubt that you will get Nuheritage to admit he was wrong. When someone doubles down and tries to justify their position by talking about their experience, or expertise, as he did, they rarely man up and admit when they are proven wrong. Great job showing the double screen of you playing the same notes along with him. Love your videos.
Also, it's been my experience that people who aren't as good, may feel jealous or threatened in some way. They will usually brag about themselves, in order to make make them seem better than what they are. As this NuHeritage guy "brought up when he said he has been playing for almost 45 years. Who knows if that's true or not? Unless you know the guy personally...
Every guitarist worth-his-while (me included 😉) can easily ‘tell’ that Elvis could actually play the guitar with perhaps a skill level of 7-8 in a scale of ten. Thats pretty good playing especially while singing perfectly at the same time.
Elvis learned to play the Guitar when he was 11 years old, when his moma bought it for him on his 11th birthday, those black guy's in Mississippi and, Memphis taught him how to play!
Elvis was a fine guitar player, great singer and performer. For the 1968 Elvis TV special he recorded two sit down shows and two stand up shows. If you watch the two sit down shows in there entirety you can see Elvis playing the guitar throughout the shows. I really don’t like people telling lies about Elvis. Some people are just so jealous of how successful Elvis was and even today in 2020 his name and voice are instantly recognisable around the world. Thanks Fil for a great analysis of Elvis’s guitar playing.
In 1977 during one of his last concerts, specifically "Elvis In Concert" just before playing "Are You Lonesome Tonight" Elvis quips that he actually going to play the guitar. He says he knows only 3 or 4 chords and that he faked everybody for along time. Your 1000% correct, just insanely accurate. 1)He's a humble Southerner, never a braggart. 2) Yes, he's worked with top flight guitar players, he's just being humble saying he faked it. 3)It's self deprication, it's part of his incredible charm, the biggest selling artist of all time and he's admitting, well, I'm just a regular guy here, nothing special when we all know he's truly, very unique and an original. Great analysis !!!
I thought it was common knowledge that Elvis could play basic rhythm guitar very well. But the ignorance of today's generations never fails to amaze me. Glad you shined some light on this to those (hopefully few) who must be real dimwits.
What even IS a great guitar player? Someone who can sight-read and play 64th notes in every scale? Or someone, as Bono puts it, with "three chords and the truth?" My opinion is that Elvis had a gift for melody and a fantastic sense of rhythm. His playing was good enough to support any performance. He was a good ol boy, a porch player, a campfire guitarist. And that's good enough to entertain anyone. Some people just want to tear down others to appear knowledgeable. It says far more about them then those they hope to disparage.
I thank you for taking time to stand up for Elvis and your analyses. I so can't wait to meet Elvis and you in heaven soon! I was blessed to see Elvis live in concert and I love him and you too young man. Both of you have been blessed indeed!
Elvis was an acoustic strummer. Listen to his pounding Marin D-18 in the early Sun recordings. It's an important part of the arrangement. No dubbing or fancy tricks there. I grew up around people who knew Elvis before he was famous. He was noted for appearing in local talent shows as a teen playing guitar and singing. They all ran out to buy his first record, which later became priceless.
Thank you for doing this video, Wings of Pegasus!!...setting the record straight and giving Elvis his due credit. He never claimed to be a legendary guitar player, but there was also nothing fake about this man. Elvis fans truly appreciate this, thank you!!
Fantastic analysis n breakdown of Elvis' guitar playing in this video. I was always convinced he was playing the guitar, especially during his performances ! Kudos for standing by your convictions n beliefs. 100% support you, especially this video. In life, learned, can't satisfy everyone so you have to "stick" to what you FEEL is true. 👍 Looking forward to your next video.
Fil should defend his assessment of whether Elvis played the guitar but there will always be people who try to make themselves more important by criticizing what they don't understand. Can't make everyone like you but those who don't are often people with a problem, not you, Fil.
Fil, I need to stand up for both you and Elvis. Elvis spent from 1956 to March of 1958 (when he went into the Army) doing one night stands all over the country. His band consisted of Scotty Moore (Lead Guitar), Bill Black (On Bass) D. J. Fontana (On Drums) and himself Elvis (On Rhythm Guitar). In a four piece band there is no place to hide. Also the jam session we see (which is the original source for Fil's analysis video happened because Steve Binder (the director of the Special would watch and listen to Elvis jam with his friends in Elvis' dressing room during the week of rehearsals leading up to the taping of the show. Binder was amazed at the ease, comfort, and spontaneity of these dressing room sessions. Binder wanted to make it part of the show and had to fight very hard to get it included. Col. Tom Parker Elvis' manager hated everything about the show because he wanted Elvis to do an hour long show of Christmas music. This is the idea Parker originally sold NBC. Parker was not happy when he (Parker) lost control of the project. I will also go back to what Carl Perkins said concerning Elvis' skill as a guitar player. Carl stated that Elvis was a very solid rhythm guitar player. If Carl said this I believe him. If you want more proof Elvis would also play rhythm guitar on the song "Little Sister" during his live shows from 1969 to 1977. Dang nabbit the Man could play guitar. Also when Elvis was at home at Graceland he would play the bass along with also playing the piano. Subject Closed!!!! Thank Fil another Great Video!!!!
I have a boxed set that includes several songs of Elvis at the piano...The songs "Take Me Home Again Kathleen", "I will Be True", "Beyond The Reef" and "It's Still Here"..very nice...
Fil, those side by sides were great! And this was certainly no sleight of hand. My goodness. I don't play guitar and I can see. Crap...🙄 I'm glad you did this! 🎶"And I'll stand my ground.. And I won't back DOWN!"🎶🎸🧒🏼🧒😉
I have watched Elvis perform this classic live performance for 35 years. I have been playing guitar for 30 years. There has never been even the slightest suspicion that this was or could ever been faked. Elvis has his own very unique fingering just as he was very unique in every other way. I’m stunned the man you mentioned could ever think this was not real and very much live. Even that model guitar and the natural reverb both the guitar, the room, and amp provide could never be replicated. My goodness.
Yes, he's clearly playing !!! And as you said, even if his amp was off, his fingering matched exactly to what it takes to play it correctly. So either way, he could play. BTW, I've been playing for FIFTY EIGHT years !!! So I know what I'm talking about.
I remember watching this special on T.V. with my mom who also loved Elvis. That 68' special was something everyone was looking forward to back then. Of course back then music was everything!!! Being a teenager then was just amazing. We lived for music and dancing. Oh and yes...American Bandstand was about all the T.V. I watched back then. Now it is "You Tube" contributes like you Ful. Thanks for doing this particular video. Much appreciated.
Scotty Moore has said on several interviews that Elvis was a “decent “ rhythm player plus a good bass player Every other opinion doesn’t matter! Scotty Rocks!!!!
Even Paul McCartney stated that he was surprised how good a bass player Elvis was. Elvis played the bass when the Beatles visited Elvis in Hollywood in 1965. McCartney owns Bill Blacks stand up bass and I was surprised to find out that The Beatles had the Bill Black Combo as warm-up for the 1964 tour. Bill was too sick at the time to play, but the Combo went.
Ok but Why when elvis sings rockssongs bright tempo of other rockers like John ny be good from chuck berry he doesn't play guitar and of course his guitarists do the solo and intro Why when he sings whole lotta shaking from jerry lee he only sings? Why when he sings tutti frutti and jenny jenny from little richard he doesn t play i instrument ? Why when he sings what i say from ray charles hE doesn 't play? He plays blue suede shoes from carl perkins but no solo Can you say me where i can see elvis doing solo or intro on a rocksong on bright tempo of course? Not for ... that is all right mama or don 't be cruel from otis blackwell.. Or playing piano for can 't help falling i love which is now tempo... Where can i see elvis playing guitar like chuck berry bill haley Or playing piano like jerry lee little richard fats domino ray charles Where where.,,?
@@jean-christophedibatista1893 you were just shown a video where his playing was proven true...... and you ask this question?? you also point out lead parts and ask why then isn't Elvis playing them? maybe because Elvis was never a lead player lol??
I've been watching Elvis in this video intermittently for over 35 years. He's definitely playing. He knew what he knew, and he definitely knew this guitar lick. Thanks for a most interesting analysis.
Musicians always use the term “Faking it” when what they mean is “I don’t really know what I’m doing, but I did the best I could”. Django Rheinhardt is widely regarded as one of the best guitarists of all time in any musical genre. He said “I don’t know music, but music knows me”.
I love you, Fil! Your willingness to stand up for someone who isn’t here to stand up for himself is wonderful. You have shown us how certain chords can be achieved fingering the fretboard in different configurations. I agree with you. I appreciate that you try to show a person’s great qualities to best advantage. That is a trait of a natural born teacher. You also explained the level of Elvis’s abilities in a matter-of-fact way. He played with the down pick stroke. He hadn’t progressed to using an upstroke. Others could have used words to describe this fact in derogatory ways. You just state the facts. I respect your integrity as a human being. It is a pleasure to subscribe to your channel and listen to your music. ROCK!
@@wingsofpegasus Çome on Fil ! .. I love your work and watch all your videos, and I appreciate that you take the time out of your busy schedule to Like and respond to so many comments .. But Katie here went into a lot of thoughtful detail about what makes you such a great teacher and analyst, and I was hoping you'd say a few more words in response than just "Thanks" .. I know that sounds hyper-critical, and it probably is, but I just felt it would have been lovely to say a tad more than you did .. No hard feelings, mate .. As I said, I love what you do .. Wayne
Well said Katie S. Although I suspect if Elvis could respond, he might give the hater that sly, crooked "Elvis" smile and say in that voice of his, "Well Mister, I'm sorry if you think I didn't actually play my guitar, why don't ya come by Graceland and maybe we can jam together. What'd say to that?"
wayne252525 Thanks is plenty. It tells me he took the time to read my comment. If Fil spent all his time giving us long replies, he’d have no time to research his amazing videos. 😉
You did a great job in showing that Elvis wasn’t faking playing. It helped immensely that you played the parts that Elvis played, showing that, yes, indeed, Elvis was really playing. If Elvis were faking, he put an awful lot of work into perfecting his fake playing!
This reminds me of seeing the Monkees in the mid 80's and Peter Tork was strumming out a little diddy and Davey stepped to the mic and asked, "What are you doing Peter, we can't play our own instruments" and Peter replied, "I'm not, this is Michael's guitar"
Yes, it's funny about the Monkees. They didn't play at first, the "Wrecking Crew" were the instrumentalists. Amazingly, it's Michael Nesmith playing on "Pleasant Valley Sunday". They got better from playing live, wanting it, writing, and practicing.
There seems to be an opinion among some musicians that if session players were on the record then the band couldn't play, however it was very common to have hired hands recording parts in far less takes than band members thus saving a fortune in expensive studio time. This has always been the case and still happens today.
Elvis Presley knew what was best for himself. From the strings to the backup singers. His ear for music was phenomenal. He produced his own records. He couldn't have done that if he didn't have that gift.
I have been playing guitar for 56 years, learned thousand songs, watched thousands of video's, played in bands and been to several hundred rock concerts. No question about it, Elvis "was not" faking it. Good video by both Elvis and Wings of Pegasus.
It's mind boggling that anyone could say Elvis didn't play guitar when it's pretty obvious he did. His playing on the comeback special alone is noteworthy and no doubt inspired many to pick up a guitar themselves and learn as it was such a great show. Wings of Pegasus is 100% correct.
@@bowiehamilton9888 Truly, to this very day, with the ELVIS movie out, they never stop dissing on this man. I have seen no other artist have this hatefulness put upon them. I must say, that only a small handful, now with the movie, say anything but praise for him. Elvis is getting so much love like he so deserves. Let the haters, hate. They live in their own little worlds. And they are few.
When Elvis made the comments that he only knew 3 cords, or “I faked it”. With songs he played on the guitar I’m sure he knew more that 3 cords. All songs were not in the same key. I believe it was his witty way of being silly. Just as he did one time when he said he cut his first record in 1927. We all should know that was his silly side. People take things.too seriously sometimes and show their lack of knowledge.
Kawika Florida Most definitely. Mick Jagger once gave an interview and said rock and roll the blues is only three chords. I tried explaining to people for years that he's downplaying it and being a big cheeky, because the music after all is based on three chords. However so many people were suddenly under the impression every rock and blues song ever written was made up of the same three cards over and over LOL
First of all, it's really tacky and a bit slimy, to attack a man's professionalism when he is no longer able to explain his actions. 2ndly, if you look at some of the early film of Elvis playing live, in concert, you csn see that even back then, he was not a novice in his playing. 3rdly, Elvis played live for over 30 years, in every concert. In his 1st 20, the technology to "FAKE" his picking in a "LIVE" format concert, DIDN'T EXIST!
I agree with so many others on this thread: Fil, you have proven to be extremely knowledgeable (and fair) in your assessments. It sounded like there was a bit of jealousy in the letter that was written to you. You responded professionally and proved your point. Great job!!!
I've seen that video where Elvis says he's faking it. It was during a live concert in the 1970s, when his guitar was a prop only and not actually plugged in. But that doesn't take away from the fact that he could actually play (from when he was 11 or 12 years old), and that he played rhythm guitar on his early recordings and live performances, and also in the 1968 comeback special. Sounds like the guy who doesn't believe you will never believe you, just because he just doesn't want to. That reflects more on his biases than on your integrity.
You got that right. Also, Elvis played the piano beautifully as well as drums. At the end, his vocals were operatic and AMAZING as well. Although his sadness and loneliness was very apparent for all to see, God Blessed That Man with Legendary Talent, looks, generosity, kindness and LOVE!!! God Blessed the World with his music and "The LEGEND Elvis Presley". World History will never forget him either.
It’s that moronic stupidity where if someone read something where Elvis said he faked it in one performance, then Elvis faked it in all performances. Like if a singer mimed once then they always mimed.
I loved ELVIS and really appreciate you looking at his playing again! I have heard many times that he could not play the guitar or the piano. He was wonderful at everything that he did. I always wanted to defend him but had no way to prove it! I do now. Thank you so much!!! I truely appreciate you and the fact that you really straightened this out, for good! I watch your reactions every time you do one and you are a truely a class act. Thank you again! WONDERFUL JOB!!!
I left a comment before seeing yours! My dad was from same area and knew Elvis! Pops could play anything made! All the country boys played, it was a way of life and in there heritage from where they growed up! I am 100 percent sure Elvis never faked a damn thing!
Even with this video I doubt Fil will have changed this persons mind. There are lots of know-it-alls on RUclips and they refuse to admit they are wrong. That person might also have been trying to undermine Fil’s analyses and question the validity of his channel. Pathetic but very possible.
Thanks for your caring and honesty, Fil, in trying to explain again to some people who don't want to hear and accept what you're saying and explaining very well here. It's certainly true, as you said, in some cases in videos the audio is not quite in sync with the movements as we've all probably seen many times in some. Elvis had a guitar from the time he was eleven years old. He had great rhythm and surely learned some decent moves through the years to not have to 'fake' it. 💓
Wow, Fil, you never fail to amaze me with your musical expertise and fairness to fellow musicians! You certainly are "no fake"! Thank you once again, and please, continue on!
Thank you for your channel. It is extremely informative. It’s a shame that you have to do rebuttal videos. But you addressed it with grace and professionalism.
As a non-musician but just a music fan.....I LOVE your analysis! You appreciate each musician for their talent without running anyone down. So refreshing to watch!
It’s a well known fact that whilst not a virtuoso on any instrument - EP was proficient at playing rhythm guitar, piano and bass guitar. It’s a well known fact that when they were laying down ‘Baby, I Don’t Care’ at the Jailhouse Rock sessions Bill Black got so pissed of with his new electric bass that he threw it down and walked out...Elvis picked it up and laid down the part himself...Elvis was also self- deprecating about himself and his talent...
I remember reading about that, lol. Elvis let him blow off steam but picked up the guitar and continued. Thanks for bringing that back to mind Sir. He was just a multitalented man and what a voice and that heckler can sshhhheeea & fall back in it.
I attended a concert Elvis put on at the Salt Palace in Salt Lake City Years ago.. When he did play a guitar, it was him playing the guitar.. We sat in the first row above the stage so we had a great view.. That man was a genius entertainer.. hard working and sooo talented.
Your patience in detailing just how you came to your conclusion, and why you made the determination you made, is a master class in “respectfully disagreeing” with another’s opinion.
elvis could certainly play guitar, if he said he faked it then he was probably just having a laugh, he was quite a humble fella, he wasn't jeff beck but he certainly could play, he played the guitar even at school so he didn't fake it then,
That's very possibly true. There are many videos out there of Elvis having a laugh of his own expense. Assuming this "NuHeritage guy is telling the truth, he probably didn't catch the joke E.P. was putting out there on himself...
Rhythm guitar is basically chords where you place fingers on certain frets and strings along the neck of the guitar and strum the strings with the other hand, often when repeating only a few chords over and over again. Lead guitar tends to play a series of individual notes and riffs and is often referred to as picking and players as pickers. Elvis could do the first of those adequately but not the second, so he was basically saying he was faking or winging it as far as being a decent guitar player.
I love how you performed the side by side instruction, what a great way to showcase Elvis. He was a professional performer in every way shape and form, no doubt about it! You hit the nail on the head with your analyses.^m^
God bless. I hope that puts it to rest. For goodness sake, for the life of me I don’t understand why some people keep going after Elvis for all kinds of things. Jealousy is what I guess it is. His vocals were extremely unique, versatile and very emotive. He played the piano even better then the guitar because he practiced it all the time when singing. He had absolutely no formal music education. Everything he learned and did was instinctively done. Not many people are born with a talent such as that and he had such an ear for music notes, tones and could sing a song just looking at it at rehearsals. God bless him. God bless you for helping others see the truth.
I am not sure but it was on the 68 comeback, where the amp came unplugged from the guitar..and Elvis stops while someone plugs it back up....Keep on Fil you're amazing!
I don't play guitar, so I don't know about the technicalities, but my gut feeling is that Elvis was an incredibly talented guy who just naturally developed his own style. Just as his vocal style was an amalgam of so many other artists, he did the same with the guitar. Elvis' brilliance was his ability to absorb elements, synthesize them, and create something unique. There was no arrogance in his method or style, it just came to him organically. He struck me as a rather humble man with a phenomenal gift.
Nuheritage was trying to be a know-it-all. And maybe even try to undermine Fil’s analysis, which is pathetic- Fil can respond substantially and shoot down any haters so that is an idiotic game.
I agree~ nothing even comes close to fakery-maybe Nuheritage has been playing bar chords for 45 years and doesn’t know open position chords when he sees them🤷🏼♂️
@@johnkelly1577 ~ That's what I am thinking too. It's easy to say, "I've been playing for almost 45 years", when you don't have to prove it, sitting behind a computer screen. Who knows if that guy is telling the truth. Neither Elvis, nor Fil have anything to prove. They can play, and everyone can see it for themselves, with their own two eyes (& ears)...
I remember reading a story of the Beatles visiting Elvis for the first time, and they were totally stoned. He was down in his Jungle Room playing a bass guitar. They said he was very cordial, and they had a great time. By the way that detractor really needed a smack down. Good Job!
The exact statement from Elvis was " I know 3 chords, believe it or not, but I faked them all for a long time, and if you think I'm nervous, you're right".... Elvis was speaking to the crowd in Rapid City, South Dakota, for his last CBS T.V. Special. Elvis was getting ready to play "That's All Right Mama", on Guitar by himself....
Great Video!!! I have been playing guitar since 1982 and can definitely say that Elvis was a pretty good rhythm guitar player! You gave this NEWHERITAGE dude waaaay too much credit! It just goes to show your dedication to your work! Thank, thank you and thank you!
“New heritage” ain’t gonna show for this video lol he is def lookin a little silly now. Elvis didn’t have to fake anything. He had more talent in his pinky alone than any artist today. Talk about fakery...artists nowadays can’t even sing without auto tune. But I know this is a guitar video so maybe I’m outta line lol but still true
To me, Elvis always looks goofy trying to play guitar. Often times he's just holding it and shaking around with it in his hands than he is actually playing it. But I guess 50's audiences were too naïve to notice.
@@sonnet189Elvis got the reputation of faking guitar playing in the movies, it was obvious he wasn't trying to play also the soundtrack was recorded in the studio and he was maiming. Elvis could of course play guitar plus many other instruments, pretty good on piano maybe not in the same league as Jerry Lee Lewis but he could play to accompany his own singing which he was in a league of his own the best overall entertainer of all time the King
Elvis never EVER considered himself a guitar player. In one of his last concerts he admitted he knew 3 chords. Who cares.....he brought more music and joy to the world than all of today’s crap combined. #greatestentertainerofalltime
The quote in question, and the one that prompted the video response, was taken from Elvis's last TV special, either the concert in Omaha or Rapid City, in 1977, 7 weeks before he died. Elvis joked with the audience that he was "going to play the guitar. Believe it or not I actually know 3 chords.... But I faked them all for a long time". He then launched into "That's alright Mama" playing the rhythm. He was telling the truth. He had faked playing during his career, especially through the movie years BUT there are enough quotes from people that were there throughout his career that confirm he actually could play. He never ever said he was an expert though
@@MrGeorgetb Yes, he strummed basic rhythmic parts, with a few lead in notes attached. He was an entertainer, and playing great guitar was not required for what he did in his early career. He had Scotty Moore to supply a bit better guitar playing. Later he had James Burton to supply a bit more complex guitar parts.
sayerspiccolo lol Elvis Presley was a mediocre musician at best. MJ was who you must be taking about. He wrote and composed music. Superior on everyday. And b4 you bring yup the mass media brainwashi. Ill remind you that Elvis married his wife when she was 14, and that’s so sickening, that’s disgusting and there’s actual evidence to support it. Have a nice day
@@giannaluva65 Unbelievable level of ignorance displayed in your comment. Elvis Presley was recognized as pretty much being the starter of a revolution in music by the greatest musicians in the world . As John Lennon said "Before Elvis, there was nothing". Also Elvis only MET Priscilla in Germany when she was 14 but married her when she was 21 when they reunited in the States. Elvis Presley was also MJs idol(the trash you spewed about Elvis would actually make your idol sad). In fact MJ was so obsessed with Elvis that he went as far as to marry his daughter, Lisa Marie. Please think before you post.
I'd be surprised if the Heritage fellow is honest enough to admit that this analysis is spot on. But as others have said, who cares? Let the haters hate. No sense wasting emotion on them. Well done video and analysis - I don't see how you could have made your point any better. You've made it plain for any honest person to see. Thanks.
Yes! The larger the butt the more popular they are it seems. I keep wishing a new dynamic record label will surface and showcase some real music. Bands that play instruments and sing without auto tune. Like INXS and Rolling Stones. Etc. ones with pure talent and charismatic front men and women. Not naked women parading around and so called “rappers “. Ugh. What has happened to music?
When you think acts like 'The Spice Girls, probably never did a 'live' Gig they mimed the whole show (and they are not alone by a long chalk) I think it's very unfair to pick on Elvis as he could play the guitar, he was a 'rhythm guitarist', not a lead guitarist, and in fact his early Sun recordings with just him on his Martin, Scotty on lead, and Bill on bass are my favourite recordings of Elvis. Elvis was first and foremost an 'Entertainer', there are millions of good guitarists out there but how many Elvis's are there.
Elvis never claimed he was a great guitarist. He was a better piano player than a guitarist. I've been playing for 40 yrs myself and Elvis is playing the guitar. Great analysis on Elvis and Scotty Moore. James Burton was top notch. I think Nuheritage is a frustrated Elvis basher. Elvis was as humble as can be. Different time. He didn't write his songs either. His instrument was his unbelievable voice. It's like complaining that EVH can't sing. Splitting hairs and majorly grasping for faults. Keep doing what you do.
@@freedomfest2741 he also claimed to be crazy. It's called being humble in the presence of lead guitarists. As mentioned in this video by Wings of Pegasus.
@@freedomfest2741 It was his humor. If you listen to his banter on stage, the guy was pretty funny. He was serious about how he performed, yet didn't take himself serious at the same time. I've never heard or seen anything where he puts himself above anyone.
You convinced me! Sometimes once a person says something they believe to be true, it is very hard for them to admit they are wrong. I think you did everything possible to prove this was not fake. Thanks, Fil❣️
I've watched to see if he was playing at this concert and it's obvious that he is, even before your hand is shown doing almost the exact same thing. His technique differs but he's hitting the right strings. How can someone who knows how to play not see this. You're bang on Fil. Thanks for the video!!!
When I was a young boy (66 years old now) I lived in Shreveport, Louisiana. This was the home of the Louisiana Hayride. This is where Elvis first began to become known, and accordingly, famous. I went and saw Elvis Presley playing at the Hayride more than once and I can tell you for a fact that Elvis Presley did play the guitar. Was he a "Tommy Emmanuel" or a "Thom Breck"? No, he was not. Was he the single most captivating, entertaining, "set the crowd on fire" thing that ever got up on that stage? YES!!!!!!! By the way, I also saw him in Southern Maid Donuts at the intersection of Hearne Avenue and Greenwood Road which was the ONLY company for which Elvis Presley EVER did a commercial. It was required of everyone who played at the Lousiana Hayride to do a commercial for Southern Maid Donuts. They also had to autograph at least one photograph to hang on the wall at the donut shop. many years later my dad, brother, and I worked as stage hands for major concerts in Shreveport. We worked for Ohio Players, Earth, Wind, & Fire, Diana Ross, Chicago, Three Dog Night, Merle Haggard, and many, many others. Twice during this period of my life I was blessed to work an Elvis Presley concert. I had the pleasure of speaking with him briefly and I will tell you he was a very respectful human being who was still filled with humility when you got to speak with him one on one. Again, I will tell you from first hand knowledge Elvis Presley did play the guitar. I heard him rehearsing for his concerts and doing sound checks. Some of the most treasured memories of my life.
wow, not jealous at all......honest
Great stories, thanks for sharing
Wow, you are so Lucky!!! To have seen Elvis before he was ELVIS!!!! and then to actually see him out in public too is just amazing. I'm 42 so unfortunately I wasnt born until 2 years after he died so obviously I've only gotten to see and hear everything he left behind for us. Luckily my Aunt who babysat me from the time I was only a few months old until I was a teenager was a Huge Elvis fan so she always had his records playing so I've been a fan since basically birth. To the point that Elvis was the only music I listened to on my own until the mid to late 80s when I found MTV and became a fan of many of the Hard Rock bands of the period like Bon Jovi, Guns N' Roses, Poison and many others. But still to this day my favorite Artist is still Elvis.
That’s so awesome!! I’ve be blessed to work with so amazing artists.. it’s awesome. Thanks for sharing !
Thank you. All of a sudden Elvis is under the microscope? OK, so what he didn't write his own songs either, but he could certainly sing them. So many ppl today don't write their own music, or play instruments. Elvis, if he were still alive would be able to out sing, any one of these so called artists today. Without autotune. Elvis cannot be compared to anyone today. He's the original. Self made, self taught, and most handsome of any musicians since.
@@janetduncan87 Absolutely 100% No one could come close back in the musical heydays so there definitely is no way any of these clowns that give the words musician and entertainer a bad name today could. Elvis on his worst day is still a million times better than anything out there today on their best day.
Fil -- you are, hands-down, the classiest guy on RUclips. I only wish I was 50 years younger and had some shred of musical talent, as I would sign up for all of your classes. Don't ever get discouraged by the doubters. They are only a tiny handful of the thousands and thousands who admire and respect you.
Thanks for the kind words!
Very well said
When Elvis told the audience that he faked it for a long time, he was referring to his movie career, where everything is fake. It was at the same time a sarcastic remark because he knew what they were saying about him. In the meantime he was a better musician than what he got credited for. Thank you FIL for standing up for him.
he jokes that he know three chords and then played a song with about five in it.
@@flemit35exactly. He was aware of the criticism he was getting even in the '50s and there is a recorded interview with him where Elvis lashes out at critics who were calling his teenage fans idiots. And he was speaking very passionately in defense of them. The interviewer made reference to the fact that a critic said he couldn't play guitar well or sing and Elvis said that's true I can't play or sing. That's how he was. He was more upset with the critics going after the fans then he was about the critics saying he couldn't sing or play. And obviously he could do both.
Elvis never struck me as a faker. He was an honest guy. He played from his soul. He was as nervous as hell on the that 68 come back special. He did a damn good job in my eyes. Thanks Fil, for standing by the King.
Well said ,,,RESPECT
I heard that Elvis was so nervous that he was going to back out & sent for the producer to tell him. When the guy had only minutes to spare, he went back & got right in Elvis’ face & told him that, “Oh yes you ARE going out there! Ive put everything into the Come-back Special & yr going out there!” The rest is History!!! Elvis was in his prime in every single way!!! 👏👏👏👏👏♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
@@d.b.4201 Gosh yes. Imagine the pressure on Elvis. Well, he got the kick he needed and was unforgettable. He was able to channel his nerves into performing. What a relief. Some people focus. Some people fold. Elvis just got better.
I saw that video of him in his later years where he says "I fooled them all these years." He was mocking those who claimed he couldn't really play the guitar. One thing he had was a sense of humor. If you watch the rehearsals he did at MGM studios for his 1970 film and concert, he also plays the guitar quite well there. Is he Eddie Van Halen? No, but he is competent. He surrounded himself with James Burton and Scotty Moore so he could focus on being the frontman. Great video Fil.
I’m 52 years old and have been playing guitar since I was 7. I’ve seen the Elvis comeback special many times and have always been struck by that performance and especially by the fact that Elvis, quite obviously, plays that guitar himself, and very well! Don’t be discouraged by one person’s comment. You’re doing important work here. You’re helping preserve history! Side note...Elvis was a master at distancing himself perfectly from that mic thus making it very easy for live mixing. He was an enormous talent but also a masterful performer. Keep up the great work WOP!
Just want to say that I love what you had to say about the king,,,thank you x
Totally agree!
....1st......This is hair- splitting as anything can be....Elvis knows what he's doing...that's a fact....and...Wings of Pegasus knows what he's doing also....that's a fact....
exactly! this is why we subscribe to Fil's channel.
That is why I am a patreon of Fil’s channel....he is authentic!
This might be true, but more importantly: are there still nine million bicycles in Beijing?
He seems to be influenced by Jimmy Reed and Lightning Hopkins
@@francovani2359 Whilst Big boy Cruddup got shafted
At first I was surprised to see Fil get so bent out of shape by one person's comments. But as I watched it showed me Fil's true level of professionalism and that he takes his work very seriously. He is not one of these typical RUclips reactors who is not a musician or just a beginner or intermediate level. He may not be the level of Stevie Ray Vaughan or Roy Clark but he is definitely a professional level guitarist who knows what he is talking about.
I challenge Nuheritage to do a video to show us his or her skill level.
He is up there with Glen Campbell and Eddie Van Halen. IMO A professional and a gentleman.
free tob - Love Fil’s videos, but Glen Campbell is in rare air. Not sure I can agree with that one.
@@stacer1962 At least I didn't say knickers in a knot - lol
M K exactly!!
Yeah, Fil is clearly a musician. So was Elvis, he was a pro and likely knew he would need to really work hard to come up to the level as many session players. That's the sign of a pro.
If Elvis was faking, you proved that he would have had to work harder to fake it with that much detail than he would have had to work to just play it! Thanks for defending Elvis' honor. He had his demons that ultimately were his undoing at a relatively young age but those who knew him before the sad last years of his life said he was a kind and honest man with more natural talent than most people would ever have. RIP Elvis.
Don't let them wind you up Fil. For me, and many others, you are the one we watch, and trust.
Touché
Uncle Bob Absolutely agree
Thanks Bob!
Christopher Smith 😂😂😂 When I first read your comment, I thought you were responding to one of my comments. I am old enough to be Fil’s mom and my kids are older. Provided my laugh for the night.
@@christophersmith2544 Er no, I don't know Fil although I wouldn't mind doing so. I may be a fellow Brit but I live a long way from Fil, in the southern China island of Hainan.
Scotty Moore says he was surprised when Elvis asked him during this segment of the 68 special "Man can I borrow your axe" Scotty handed Elvis his guitar which had the only amp on stage and Elvis gave Scotty the box guitar he was playing"
From that point on its Elvis playing the only amped guitar on that square stage during that sit down show"
Steve Bender the producer of the 68 special had heard Elvis, Scotty, DJ Fontana and others jamming in Elvis' dressing room at the NBC Burbank studios and it was then he decided to have the sit down segment because of the stories they were telling and the atmosphere it created. Nothing on the sit down shows was over dubbed-it was suppose to be like the dressing room jams. There was a general line up sheet that Steve wrote down based on the stories he heard Elvis and crew telling and the songs they jammed on...but nothing was over dubbed.
IF you watch other portions of the sit down segments after Elvis borrows Scottys electric Elvis plays Blue Christmas, Trying to Get to You, Tiger Man, and several others playing all on Scottys guitar.
The only canned music in that segment was the New Song "Memories" written by Mac Davis for the special ...during that song the music was canned but Elvis' vocal was live.
The gentleman who seems to think this was all faked is 100% wrong.
Elvis played rhythm guitar on all the Sun records, he played on several of his first RCA records and also played piano on several songs in his catalogue.
If you watch the 1957 Elvis film "Jailhouse Rock" listen to the song "Baby I don't Care" in the film.
When the soundtrack was recorded for the film-Elvis' bass player at the time Bill Black had a very hard time with the prominent bass riffs on this song-he did not like the electric bass they wanted him to use so he gave up in a huff during that session.....Elvis picked up the electric bass and had it down in an hour exactly the way it was suppose to be.
Johnny Cash. who toured with Elvis in the 50s. said this
"Elvis was one of the best rhythm guitarists I ever saw back then and very seldom gets credit for his playing"
Pretty good praise from a guy who should know.
Great read, thank you.
Kenneth McDonald can someone reply with a summary
Yes sir. Good stuff. You really covered it all.
Note that Cash qualified his statement with the word "rhythm" guitarist. Yes, for simple rhythm guitar parts, Elvis was competent.
@@KenTeel "one of the best rhythm guitarist." Cash saw Elvis perform live in Memphis before Cash was famous. The girls noticed Elvis moving. But Cash being a musician noticed the performance including his thought on the guitar.
I would like to add something. In 1957, during the soundtrack recording for the movie Jailhouse Rock, there was a song called Baby, I Don't Care. The song started out with a bass intro. Normally his bass player Bill Black played upright bass, but this time an electric bass was about to be used. For some reason Bill didn't get the intro right and after a few tries he grew frustrated and dropped the bass on the studio floor. Elvis picked it up and played the bass part himself. That's the type of musician he was.
Yes, I have read and hired about that.
I never knew that. Interesting stuff.
When the Beatles met Elvis, they said he was sitting on the couch and playing the bass
Pretty impressive when you really think about it. He'd never played an electric bass before, but he had the natural ability to just pick it up and play it.
Elvis was a singer first and foremost. Who cares about his guitar work. His voice and presence is beyond compare. Great vid Fil!!!
He was definitely a singer first and foremost. But he didn't pretend to be something he wasn't. He wasn't great with the guitar but he didn't claimed he was either. He wasn't a great actor, but he didn't claimed that he was either. In the end, it's a rather rude thing to claim that someone is faking if the person really isn't. So a great reason for this video.
Elvis was a showman first.
@@ronh.798 Definitely a showman. But all sold records wasn't because he was a great showman but because he was a fantastic singer. It's the singer - and not the showman - I'm enjoying on the majority of records. It's only on the live recordings I get a chance to listen to the showman with the in-between talk.
@@perwestermark8920 Geat point about records sold, though one could argue records sold were at least enhanced due to his performances. He was seen on tv after all. That and his pretty-boy looks, and you have the complete comercial package. Not to mention he got his 1st. guitar @ 8 yrs. old, so you can damn wel bet he knew how to play!
I Care About His Guitar Playing The Ma Fucker could actually Play... He Was A Songster 1st And Foremost The Perfect singer who could Deliver A Song Y'all Missing it
I read Roy Clark's autobiography, and he complimented Elvis' guitar playing, said that you can tell by this '68 TV special that Elvis was a good guitar player. This, from ROY CLARK himself! He also stated that Elvis simply hadn't had the time to get great on the guitar, because he got famous so fast, that he never really had the chance - or took the time - to master the instrument. Seeing that Roy Clark Himself was reasonably impressed with Elvis' guitar playing, is impressive. Regarding Scotty Moore, he has stated, himself, that HE had no time to get really excellent at guitar-playing, because once he got hooked up with Elvis, they got so famous and so busy so fast, that Moore himself didn't have time to continue working on becoming an outstanding guitarist. The main problem with Elvis' playing in the early years, was he played SO HARD, that he kept breaking all the strings and destroying borrowed guitars after he'd broken all his own strings. People weren't too happy to lend Elvis their guitar, only to find that after he'd used it for a few songs, it was destroyed! {Jerry Lee did the same thing to pianos. Elvis didn't let Jerry Lee play the piano at Graceland, 'cause Elvis knew all too well what the Killer would do to the instrument.}
Jim, the Killer would've set the thing on fire. Specially with it belonging to Elvis, who he considered inferior to him.
But yes, if Roy Clark thinks you're good, you're good.
I've heard from I believe it was Billy Smith that Jerry actually did come over to Graceland and he and Elvis played the piano together and sung several songs in the Early days. He even said he wished he had a tape recorder when it happened because it was some of most beautiful music he'd ever heard.
@@rwieber79 and Billy wasn't biased, oh no. Seriously though, both men were capable of creating beauty, I've always loved Jerry's recording of "Lucky Old Sun", for instance.
@@stewartfenton7660 Idk if it was Billy for sure or not, but either way the story wasn't being told in a way to make either of them look bad. He was simply saying that they actually were pretty good friends and they sounded amazing together. I've always been much more of an Elvis fan but I do like alot of Jerry's music too. And there's no denying how amazing of piano player Jerry is even to this day in his 80s. Those guys are 2 of the greatest entertainers to ever live and there will never be anything like either of them either.
When Elvis said he was faking it, he had a smile on his face. I agree with your analysis but I also think there was a touch of self-effacing humour - for which he was famous - creeping in there. Great video thank you.
Exactly. Elvis was always a jokester on stage. Even more so in his later years. He was clearly joking around.
Elvis played guitar, bass, piano, and drums, and he did things vocally that many vocalists wish they could do. When Elvis walked on stage, he took over the room like few people could. Entertainer, Showman.
Elvis sucked
Where did you read he played drums? I'm a huge Elvis fan...with a cupboard full of books, just can't recall that at all
No, he didn't play all those instruments. At least not fluently. My father is Glen D. Hardin, member of TCB, and Elvis didn't play well- at all.
@@deanarnold10 Elvis did not play drums.
@@dirtysanchez941 Keep in mind he doesn't have to "play fluently" singers and songwriters often, use a instrument to figure out a verse, phrasing, transition or how a song sounds! We're not talking, "one man concerts" here.
I’m really impressed by your patience, honesty and diplomatic ”tone” towards this accusation - awesome video. It’s also pretty obvious to me that you’ll have a hard time faking the guitarplaying in a three piece setting during those early years with Scotty and Bill
I could not agree more. Phil is such a great passionate guy, and with a lot of knowledge. 👍
Yes I agree with you completely here. And Scotty Moore always was very impressed that that great great wonderful first song they did that's all right Mama begins with Elvis alone in the open Rhythm and the rest is history. He was not a technical player or a great Blues Man like a BB King or some of those other Giants in the field but that's not what he was about. And from everything I've ever heard ,Elvis Presley played guitar just fine and with really a lot of good spirit and appropriate to the songs and really could rock the house and was a sensitive wise and meaningful player of guitar on songs that demanded precisely what he was playing especially on the early album where he really does contribute.
Elvis was so humble that he super played down his guitar and piano playing. The man had it all.
Elvis was a good rhythm guitarist, he didn’t need to be better than that. Thanks for your excellent comments
I wouldn't actually call him good. Elvis could barely keep up and was mostly carried by his band members. I'm only speaking of his guitar playing, not anything else.
WAY TO GO, FIL for standing up for artists who are not being given credit for their work. Your demonstration provides proof positive that Elvis was playing live. Even a person like me, who doesn't play an instrument, can see it. Your rant is quite appropriate, honestly and integrity are your hallmarks. 😻
Then again, talking about credit where credit is due... Elvis did get some songwriting credits (because royalties) for a lot of songs he did not write. It's the music business I guess
I saw Elvis 12 times in concert. Sat in the first row several times AND Elvis did play the guitar and played it beautifully!!! He loved music and put his soul into everything he did!! He played the guitar his way, while others played with him their way!! ( you are so right!) At an Elvis concert ,Elvis' voice alone was EVERYTHING!! He was phenomenal!! Yes he played the guitar, and everything else .. He was great!!
Elvis was the guitarist in a trio with Bill Black (bass) during the early 50's .... Kinda hard to 'fake it' when you're the only guitarist in a 3-peice band ..
just sayin'....
I would particularly recommend "Mystery Train" for his very early rhythm guitar. He led the band, deciding the chord changes on what was supposed to be just a rehearsal take. Sam Phillips burst out of the control room to stop them. It was done! The song was cut before they cut the first "real" take! Sam said "That's a (bleep)ing masterpiece!" They just looked at each other like "it is?" It was.
Scotty's solo is also absolutely majestic. I think it's his best. In less than a year, Scotty went from an average, nondescript country picker to a stunning R&B player. Part of it was the synergy between Scotty and Elvis. Elvis really knew the blues, both Mississippi Hill Country Blues (very different style: repetitive and percussive) and the Delta Blues he heard on radio, and later on records. And Delta bluesmen often stopped off near where Elvis lived in the almost all-black Park Hill section of Tupelo. They'd play at the black Elks Club there. Louis Jordan even played at that Elks Club.
So, where Scotty was strictly a lead guitarist, the back-and-forth synergy with a very young but very intense bluesman who played rhythm guitar and sang the blues turned Scotty into one of the greatest lead guitarists ever. It was a unique journey for all three of them, but especially for Elvis and Scotty. You can hear them talking to one another in the Sun studio on new releases of all the existing Sun sessions.
@snipe69 Absolutely!!
Most male rock "stars" are ugly, plain, or ordinary looking. Some have an unusualness to them. Most probably thought/think that they were "lady killers", but it was mainly their stardom.
EP is one of the few who was really gorgeous to look at. No wonder they're jealous.
Plus, somehow, his handsome gorgeousness translated into his voice and music. They couldn't do that. It wasn't in them.
He didn't fake it, Thom, but it was Elvis on rhythm guitar, Black on bass and Scotty Moore on lead guitar. Hence, Elvis wasn't the only guitarist, while DJ Fontana - the drummer - was the individual added on later.
He wasn't the only guitarist, Scott played lead, elvis rhythm
I doubt that you will get Nuheritage to admit he was wrong. When someone doubles down and tries to justify their position by talking about their experience, or expertise, as he did, they rarely man up and admit when they are proven wrong. Great job showing the double screen of you playing the same notes along with him. Love your videos.
Well said! I was thinking the exact same thing. He'll probably not admit he was wrong at this point.
Also, it's been my experience that people who aren't as good, may feel jealous or threatened in some way. They will usually brag about themselves, in order to make make them seem better than what they are. As this NuHeritage guy "brought up when he said he has been playing for almost 45 years. Who knows if that's true or not? Unless you know the guy personally...
Nicely put
Every guitarist worth-his-while (me included 😉) can easily ‘tell’ that Elvis could actually play the guitar with perhaps a skill level of 7-8 in a scale of ten. Thats pretty good playing especially while singing perfectly at the same time.
Elvis learned to play the Guitar when he was 11 years old, when his moma bought it for him on his 11th birthday, those black guy's in Mississippi and, Memphis taught him how to play!
He was 13 when they moved to Memphis from, Mississippi!
Elvis was a fine guitar player, great singer and performer. For the 1968 Elvis TV special he recorded two sit down shows and two stand up shows. If you watch the two sit down shows in there entirety you can see Elvis playing the guitar throughout the shows. I really don’t like people telling lies about Elvis. Some people are just so jealous of how successful Elvis was and even today in 2020 his name and voice are instantly recognisable around the world. Thanks Fil for a great analysis of Elvis’s guitar playing.
Don’t let folks troll ya Phil. 40+ years as a picker here and yeah, Elvis was legit.
In 1977 during one of his last concerts, specifically "Elvis In Concert" just before playing "Are You Lonesome Tonight" Elvis quips that he actually going to play the guitar. He says he knows only 3 or 4 chords and that he faked everybody for along time. Your 1000% correct, just insanely accurate. 1)He's a humble Southerner, never a braggart. 2) Yes, he's worked with top flight guitar players, he's just being humble saying he faked it. 3)It's self deprication, it's part of his incredible charm, the biggest selling artist of all time and he's admitting, well, I'm just a regular guy here, nothing special when we all know he's truly, very unique and an original. Great analysis !!!
@Patriot751
That's correct... He tells the audience that he only knows 3 or 4 chords... and then he play more than that in that song... :-D
Great insight.
Very well said!
Folk only want to see what they see not the actual fact elvis was joking
Thank you for honoring Elvis' memory with your passion for the truth. I am glad we have you to around to analyze these matters.
I thought it was common knowledge that Elvis could play basic rhythm guitar very well. But the ignorance of today's generations never fails to amaze me. Glad you shined some light on this to those (hopefully few) who must be real dimwits.
I wish I could have said that, my thoughts in words,.👍🎯
Quite true, as Johnny Cash also said Elvis was an awesome rhythm guitarist.
What even IS a great guitar player? Someone who can sight-read and play 64th notes in every scale? Or someone, as Bono puts it, with "three chords and the truth?" My opinion is that Elvis had a gift for melody and a fantastic sense of rhythm. His playing was good enough to support any performance. He was a good ol boy, a porch player, a campfire guitarist. And that's good enough to entertain anyone. Some people just want to tear down others to appear knowledgeable. It says far more about them then those they hope to disparage.
I like your reply, Troy. See my reply above, notice the similarities. Thanks for posting. (I'm uggligr).
Not only that.
But the soul depth and diversity of elvis, is otherworldly.
yeah, that Django Reinhardt rarely used the right fingers and some people still think he could play ( from a Django and Elvis fan)
@@glynnsmith4560 🎯👍👏🤴
Well said!
I thank you for taking time to stand up for Elvis and your analyses. I so can't wait to meet Elvis and you in heaven soon! I was blessed to see Elvis live in concert and I love him and you too young man. Both of you have been blessed indeed!
Elvis was an acoustic strummer. Listen to his pounding Marin D-18 in the early Sun recordings. It's an important part of the arrangement. No dubbing or fancy tricks there. I grew up around people who knew Elvis before he was famous. He was noted for appearing in local talent shows as a teen playing guitar and singing. They all ran out to buy his first record, which later became priceless.
Thank you for doing this video, Wings of Pegasus!!...setting the record straight and giving Elvis his due credit. He never claimed to be a legendary guitar player, but there was also nothing fake about this man. Elvis fans truly appreciate this, thank you!!
Another great one with beautiful explanation and thumbs up as always.
You make me smile. I appreciate you.
Fantastic analysis n breakdown of Elvis' guitar playing in this video. I was always convinced he was playing the guitar, especially during his performances !
Kudos for standing by your convictions n beliefs. 100% support you, especially this video.
In life, learned, can't satisfy everyone so you have to "stick" to what you FEEL is true. 👍
Looking forward to your next video.
Fil should defend his assessment of whether Elvis played the guitar but there will always be people who try to make themselves more important by criticizing what they don't understand. Can't make everyone like you but those who don't are often people with a problem, not you, Fil.
Criticizing what they don't understand? Sounds a little like Bob Dylan.
Elvis PLAYED like he SANG.
RHYTHMICALLY. ⚡
Fil, I need to stand up for both you and Elvis. Elvis spent from 1956 to March of 1958 (when he went into the Army) doing one night stands all over the country. His band consisted of Scotty Moore (Lead Guitar), Bill Black (On Bass) D. J. Fontana (On Drums) and himself Elvis (On Rhythm Guitar). In a four piece band there is no place to hide. Also the jam session we see (which is the original source for Fil's analysis video happened because Steve Binder (the director of the Special would watch and listen to Elvis jam with his friends in Elvis' dressing room during the week of rehearsals leading up to the taping of the show. Binder was amazed at the ease, comfort, and spontaneity of these dressing room sessions. Binder wanted to make it part of the show and had to fight very hard to get it included. Col. Tom Parker Elvis' manager hated everything about the show because he wanted Elvis to do an hour long show of Christmas music. This is the idea Parker originally sold NBC. Parker was not happy when he (Parker) lost control of the project. I will also go back to what Carl Perkins said concerning Elvis' skill as a guitar player. Carl stated that Elvis was a very solid rhythm guitar player. If Carl said this I believe him. If you want more proof Elvis would also play rhythm guitar on the song "Little Sister" during his live shows from 1969 to 1977. Dang nabbit the Man could play guitar. Also when Elvis was at home at Graceland he would play the bass along with also playing the piano. Subject Closed!!!! Thank Fil another Great Video!!!!
Thank you sir and he played the DRUMS as well
I thumbed-up your comment because you used "dang nabbit" :)
@@cazgerald9471 God help us all if I have to break out the "T" Word!!! Tar-nation!!!! :)
I have a boxed set that includes several songs of Elvis at the piano...The songs "Take Me Home Again Kathleen", "I will Be True", "Beyond The Reef" and "It's Still Here"..very nice...
Fil, those side by sides were great!
And this was certainly no sleight of hand. My goodness.
I don't play guitar and I can see. Crap...🙄
I'm glad you did this!
🎶"And I'll stand my ground..
And I won't back DOWN!"🎶🎸🧒🏼🧒😉
I have watched Elvis perform this classic live performance for 35 years. I have been playing guitar for 30 years. There has never been even the slightest suspicion that this was or could ever been faked. Elvis has his own very unique fingering just as he was very unique in every other way. I’m stunned the man you mentioned could ever think this was not real and very much live. Even that model guitar and the natural reverb both the guitar, the room, and amp provide could never be replicated. My goodness.
I've never heard of anyone saying the '68 comeback special was fake in any way. How bizarre!
I never understood why Elvis needed a comeback at any time
Yes, he's clearly playing !!! And as you said, even if his amp was off, his fingering matched exactly to what it takes to play it correctly. So either way, he could play. BTW, I've been playing for FIFTY EIGHT years !!! So I know what I'm talking about.
I remember watching this special on T.V. with my mom who also loved Elvis. That 68' special was something everyone was looking forward to back then. Of course back then music was everything!!! Being a teenager then was just amazing. We lived for music and dancing. Oh and yes...American Bandstand was about all the T.V. I watched back then. Now it is "You Tube" contributes like you Ful. Thanks for doing this particular video. Much appreciated.
Scotty Moore has said on several interviews that Elvis was a “decent “ rhythm player plus a good bass player Every other opinion doesn’t matter! Scotty Rocks!!!!
Even Paul McCartney stated that he was surprised how good a bass player Elvis was. Elvis played the bass when the Beatles visited Elvis in Hollywood in 1965. McCartney owns Bill Blacks stand up bass and I was surprised to find out that The Beatles had the Bill Black Combo as warm-up for the 1964 tour. Bill was too sick at the time to play, but the Combo went.
Ok but
Why when elvis sings rockssongs bright tempo of other rockers like
John ny be good from chuck berry he doesn't play guitar and of course his guitarists do the solo and intro
Why when he sings whole lotta shaking from jerry lee he only sings?
Why when he sings tutti frutti and jenny jenny from little richard he doesn t play i instrument ?
Why when he sings what i say from ray charles hE doesn 't play?
He plays blue suede shoes from carl perkins but no solo
Can you say me where i can see elvis doing solo or intro on a rocksong on bright tempo of course? Not for ... that is all right mama or don 't be cruel from otis blackwell..
Or playing piano for can 't help falling i love which is now tempo...
Where can i see elvis playing guitar like chuck berry bill haley
Or playing piano like jerry lee little richard fats domino ray charles
Where where.,,?
@@jean-christophedibatista1893 okay, you sing like Elvis while you're playing and impress us. ;-)
Do you know someone who says the
Truth about his boss..?
@@jean-christophedibatista1893 you were just shown a video where his playing was proven true...... and you ask this question??
you also point out lead parts and ask why then isn't Elvis playing them? maybe because Elvis was never a lead player lol??
You can also see the strings moving as he struck them with his pick. Elvis was definitely playing in that
I've been watching Elvis in this video intermittently for over 35 years. He's definitely playing. He knew what he knew, and he definitely knew this guitar lick. Thanks for a most interesting analysis.
I suspect when Elvis said he was 'faking it' he actually meant he was 'winging it', ie just getting by.
I agree, this is what he most likely meant.
Musicians always use the term “Faking it” when what they mean is “I don’t really know what I’m doing, but I did the best I could”. Django Rheinhardt is widely regarded as one of the best guitarists of all time in any musical genre. He said “I don’t know music, but music knows me”.
I love you, Fil! Your willingness to stand up for someone who isn’t here to stand up for himself is wonderful. You have shown us how certain chords can be achieved fingering the fretboard in different configurations. I agree with you. I appreciate that you try to show a person’s great qualities to best advantage. That is a trait of a natural born teacher. You also explained the level of Elvis’s abilities in a matter-of-fact way. He played with the down pick stroke. He hadn’t progressed to using an upstroke. Others could have used words to describe this fact in derogatory ways. You just state the facts. I respect your integrity as a human being. It is a pleasure to subscribe to your channel and listen to your music. ROCK!
Thanks!
@@wingsofpegasus Çome on Fil ! .. I love your work and watch all your videos, and I appreciate that you take the time out of your busy schedule to Like and respond to so many comments .. But Katie here went into a lot of thoughtful detail about what makes you such a great teacher and analyst, and I was hoping you'd say a few more words in response than just "Thanks" .. I know that sounds hyper-critical, and it probably is, but I just felt it would have been lovely to say a tad more than you did .. No hard feelings, mate .. As I said, I love what you do .. Wayne
@@wayne_twentyfive he did give Katie a love heart though 😃
Well said Katie S. Although I suspect if Elvis could respond, he might give the hater that sly, crooked "Elvis" smile and say in that voice of his, "Well Mister, I'm sorry if you think I didn't actually play my guitar, why don't ya come by Graceland and maybe we can jam together. What'd say to that?"
wayne252525 Thanks is plenty. It tells me he took the time to read my comment. If Fil spent all his time giving us long replies, he’d have no time to research his amazing videos. 😉
You did a great job in showing that Elvis wasn’t faking playing. It helped immensely that you played the parts that Elvis played, showing that, yes, indeed, Elvis was really playing. If Elvis were faking, he put an awful lot of work into perfecting his fake playing!
This reminds me of seeing the Monkees in the mid 80's and Peter Tork was strumming out a little diddy and Davey stepped to the mic and asked, "What are you doing Peter, we can't play our own instruments" and Peter replied, "I'm not, this is Michael's guitar"
Mike made a similar comment when I spoke with him in '97: "Whose instruments do they *think* we're playing?!?"
Gotta love Peter.
Yes, it's funny about the Monkees. They didn't play at first, the "Wrecking Crew" were the instrumentalists. Amazingly, it's Michael Nesmith playing on "Pleasant Valley Sunday".
They got better from playing live, wanting it, writing, and practicing.
There seems to be an opinion among some musicians that if session players were on the record then the band couldn't play, however it was very common to have hired hands recording parts in far less takes than band members thus saving a fortune in expensive studio time. This has always been the case and still happens today.
Good stories though.
Elvis Presley knew what was best for himself. From the strings to the backup singers. His ear for music was phenomenal. He produced his own records. He couldn't have done that if he didn't have that gift.
I have been playing guitar for 56 years, learned thousand songs, watched thousands of video's, played in bands and been to several hundred rock concerts. No question about it, Elvis "was not" faking it. Good video by both Elvis and Wings of Pegasus.
It's mind boggling that anyone could say Elvis didn't play guitar when it's pretty obvious he did. His playing on the comeback special alone is noteworthy and no doubt inspired many to pick up a guitar themselves and learn as it was such a great show. Wings of Pegasus is 100% correct.
Elvis can play guitar..didnt fake it..
He wasa great singer.. And great looking! The guy who says Elvis is faking it.. Was jealous
Jealousy causes Devil’s Advocacy accusations. Elvis is one of the biggest targets of jealousy ever.
@@bowiehamilton9888 Truly, to this very day, with the ELVIS movie out, they never stop dissing on this man. I have seen no other artist have this hatefulness put upon them. I must say, that only a small handful, now with the movie, say anything but praise for him. Elvis is getting so much love like he so deserves. Let the haters, hate. They live in their own little worlds. And they are few.
@@keetonplace He was so incredibly talented but even more LOVED. I have NEVER seen someone so ADORED. That is what causes the jealousy.
@@bowiehamilton9888 I agree100%.
Exactly right!
When Elvis made the comments that he only knew 3 cords, or “I faked it”. With songs he played on the guitar I’m sure he knew more that 3 cords. All songs were not in the same key. I believe it was his witty way of being silly. Just as he did one time when he said he cut his first record in 1927. We all should know that was his silly side. People take things.too seriously sometimes and show their lack of knowledge.
Yup. Self-deprecating humor. It's a very common and well-known thing.
His witty way of being HUMBLE, great post, thanks for sticking up for AND understanding Elvis!!!!!!!!
Good point !
Not only that.
But the soul depth and diversity of elvis, is otherworldly.
Kawika Florida Most definitely. Mick Jagger once gave an interview and said rock and roll the blues is only three chords. I tried explaining to people for years that he's downplaying it and being a big cheeky, because the music after all is based on three chords. However so many people were suddenly under the impression every rock and blues song ever written was made up of the same three cards over and over LOL
People really attack Elvis for anything… thanks for the video 💜
First of all, it's really tacky and a bit slimy, to attack a man's professionalism when he is no longer able to explain his actions. 2ndly, if you look at some of the early film of Elvis playing live, in concert, you csn see that even back then, he was not a novice in his playing. 3rdly, Elvis played live for over 30 years, in every concert. In his 1st 20, the technology to "FAKE" his picking in a "LIVE" format concert, DIDN'T EXIST!
Doesn’t even look faked. I’ve been playing that style since I was a kid. Doesn’t look faked at all.
I agree with so many others on this thread: Fil, you have proven to be extremely knowledgeable (and fair) in your assessments. It sounded like there was a bit of jealousy in the letter that was written to you. You responded professionally and proved your point. Great job!!!
BAMMMMMMM Yep
I've seen that video where Elvis says he's faking it. It was during a live concert in the 1970s, when his guitar was a prop only and not actually plugged in. But that doesn't take away from the fact that he could actually play (from when he was 11 or 12 years old), and that he played rhythm guitar on his early recordings and live performances, and also in the 1968 comeback special. Sounds like the guy who doesn't believe you will never believe you, just because he just doesn't want to. That reflects more on his biases than on your integrity.
GREAT POINTS !! I AGREE !! A HUGE THUMBS UP, FROM ME !!
You got that right. Also, Elvis played the piano beautifully as well as drums. At the end, his vocals were operatic and AMAZING as well. Although his sadness and loneliness was very apparent for all to see, God Blessed That Man with Legendary Talent, looks, generosity, kindness and LOVE!!! God Blessed the World with his music and "The LEGEND Elvis Presley". World History will never forget him either.
It’s that moronic stupidity where if someone read something where Elvis said he faked it in one performance, then Elvis faked it in all performances. Like if a singer mimed once then they always mimed.
@@freetob1 DJ Fontana once said that he knew how to play just enough of each instrument to make him dangerous.
George Strait used to wear a guitar as a prop, but he actually did play the guitar.
I loved ELVIS and really appreciate you looking at his playing again! I have heard many times that he could not play the guitar or the piano. He was wonderful at everything that he did. I always wanted to defend him but had no way to prove it! I do now. Thank you so much!!! I truely appreciate you and the fact that you really straightened this out, for good! I watch your reactions every time you do one and you are a truely a class act. Thank you again! WONDERFUL JOB!!!
Elvis..coolest person to ever live..does not need to fake anything..I Trust your analysis Fil...thanks Fil
I left a comment before seeing yours! My dad was from same area and knew Elvis! Pops could play anything made! All the country boys played, it was a way of life and in there heritage from where they growed up! I am 100 percent sure Elvis never faked a damn thing!
Even with this video I doubt Fil will have changed this persons mind. There are lots of know-it-alls on RUclips and they refuse to admit they are wrong. That person might also have been trying to undermine Fil’s analyses and question the validity of his channel. Pathetic but very possible.
Thanks for your caring and honesty, Fil, in trying to explain again to some people who don't want to hear and accept what you're saying and explaining very well here. It's certainly true, as you said, in some cases in videos the audio is not quite in sync with the
movements as we've all probably seen many times in some. Elvis had a guitar from the time he was eleven years old. He had great rhythm and surely learned some decent moves through the years to not have to 'fake' it. 💓
Presley over hyped shop dummy
@Donald Mackay cant say you do much for humanity's image either
Wow, Fil, you never fail to amaze me with your musical expertise and fairness to fellow musicians! You certainly are "no fake"! Thank you once again, and please, continue on!
Thank you for your channel. It is extremely informative. It’s a shame that you have to do rebuttal videos. But you addressed it with grace and professionalism.
As a non-musician but just a music fan.....I LOVE your analysis!
You appreciate each musician for their talent without running anyone down.
So refreshing to watch!
Thanks!
It’s a well known fact that whilst not a virtuoso on any instrument - EP was proficient at playing rhythm guitar, piano and bass guitar. It’s a well known fact that when they were laying down ‘Baby, I Don’t Care’ at the Jailhouse Rock sessions Bill Black got so pissed of with his new electric bass that he threw it down and walked out...Elvis picked it up and laid down the part himself...Elvis was also self- deprecating about himself and his talent...
E did a damn good job on that song too! Especially singing and dancing.
Spot on
I remember reading about that, lol. Elvis let him blow off steam but picked up the guitar and continued. Thanks for bringing that back to mind Sir. He was just a multitalented man and what a voice and that heckler can sshhhheeea & fall back in it.
I attended a concert Elvis put on at the Salt Palace in Salt Lake City Years ago.. When he did play a guitar, it was him playing the guitar.. We sat in the first row above the stage so we had a great view..
That man was a genius entertainer.. hard working and sooo talented.
Brilliant Video. Love your guitar playing Phil.
We should perhaps do a duet one day. I'm a piano player.
All the boogie best.
Terry.
Fantastic vid, Fil. One of the best contemporary music educational channels around!
Your patience in detailing just how you came to your conclusion, and why you made the determination you made, is a master class in “respectfully disagreeing” with another’s opinion.
elvis could certainly play guitar, if he said he faked it then he was probably just having a laugh, he was quite a humble fella, he wasn't jeff beck but he certainly could play, he played the guitar even at school so he didn't fake it then,
That's very possibly true. There are many videos out there of Elvis having a laugh of his own expense. Assuming this "NuHeritage guy is telling the truth, he probably didn't catch the joke E.P. was putting out there on himself...
Rhythm guitar is basically chords where you place fingers on certain frets and strings along the neck of the guitar and strum the strings with the other hand, often when repeating only a few chords over and over again. Lead guitar tends to play a series of individual notes and riffs and is often referred to as picking and players as pickers.
Elvis could do the first of those adequately but not the second, so he was basically saying he was faking or winging it as far as being a decent guitar player.
He knew 3 chords.
@@mikeaudette2823 He knew more than that. But he still had a basic knowledge and skill. That's all he needed.
Mike! must be a Trump supporter
I love how you performed the side by side instruction, what a great way to showcase Elvis. He was a professional performer in every way shape and form, no doubt about it! You hit the nail on the head with your analyses.^m^
God bless. I hope that puts it to rest. For goodness sake, for the life of me I don’t understand why some people keep going after Elvis for all kinds of things. Jealousy is what I guess it is. His vocals were extremely unique, versatile and very emotive. He played the piano even better then the guitar because he practiced it all the time when singing. He had absolutely no formal music education. Everything he learned and did was instinctively done. Not many people are born with a talent such as that and he had such an ear for music notes, tones and could sing a song just looking at it at rehearsals. God bless him. God bless you for helping others see the truth.
Excellent you do know. You're so honest and correct. Thank you.
I am not sure but it was on the 68 comeback, where the amp came unplugged from the guitar..and Elvis stops while someone plugs it back up....Keep on Fil you're amazing!
Yes,Terry, you're right. I saw that one myself.
@@brendaisajiw3417 I am glad you seen that too! Big Elvis fan here still!
I don't play guitar, so I don't know about the technicalities, but my gut feeling is that Elvis was an incredibly talented guy who just naturally developed his own style. Just as his vocal style was an amalgam of so many other artists, he did the same with the guitar. Elvis' brilliance was his ability to absorb elements, synthesize them, and create something unique. There was no arrogance in his method or style, it just came to him organically. He struck me as a rather humble man with a phenomenal gift.
Fil, I could see it plain as day, no faking. Nuheritage needs glasses.
Nuheritage was trying to be a know-it-all. And maybe even try to undermine Fil’s analysis, which is pathetic- Fil can respond substantially and shoot down any haters so that is an idiotic game.
Hmmm has anyone actually seen nuheritage play guitar?Of course we have his say so.Just wondering though.
This was my first thought when he said he had been playing for 40+ years. Might be time for some new readers.
I agree~ nothing even comes close to fakery-maybe Nuheritage has been playing bar chords for 45 years and doesn’t know open position chords when he sees them🤷🏼♂️
@@johnkelly1577 ~ That's what I am thinking too. It's easy to say, "I've been playing for almost 45 years", when you don't have to prove it, sitting behind a computer screen. Who knows if that guy is telling the truth. Neither Elvis, nor Fil have anything to prove. They can play, and everyone can see it for themselves, with their own two eyes (& ears)...
Another great analysis Fil 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍 You are spot on!
THANKYOU!!!!!!!!!
Elvis deserves this!!!!!!!
Yes 🙌
We love ELVIS 😍🥰😍
Thanks Fil, I'm more than happy to give YOU the respect you deserve and take your word for it.
Thanks Mr. Fil, loved the analysis again, was really interesting.
I remember reading a story of the Beatles visiting Elvis for the first time, and they were totally stoned. He was down in his Jungle Room playing a bass guitar. They said he was very cordial, and they had a great time. By the way that detractor really needed a smack down. Good Job!
The exact statement from Elvis was " I know 3 chords, believe it or not, but I faked them all for a long time, and if you think I'm nervous, you're right".... Elvis was speaking to the crowd in Rapid City, South Dakota, for his last CBS T.V. Special. Elvis was getting ready to play "That's All Right Mama", on Guitar by himself....
This was completely fascinating, painstakingly prepared, and convincing. Thank you!
Great Video!!! I have been playing guitar since 1982 and can definitely say that Elvis was a pretty good rhythm guitar player! You gave this NEWHERITAGE dude waaaay too much credit! It just goes to show your dedication to your work! Thank, thank you and thank you!
I love the Sun Music legends, including Elvis Presley. Great analysis video. Cheers, Fil!
“New heritage” ain’t gonna show for this video lol he is def lookin a little silly now. Elvis didn’t have to fake anything. He had more talent in his pinky alone than any artist today. Talk about fakery...artists nowadays can’t even sing without auto tune. But I know this is a guitar video so maybe I’m outta line lol but still true
To me, Elvis always looks goofy trying to play guitar. Often times he's just holding it and shaking around with it in his hands than he is actually playing it. But I guess 50's audiences were too naïve to notice.
Cyrano66 goofy? Never heard him described that way lol. Yh, his guitar was often a prop but he could play enough to get by.....
@@sonnet189Elvis got the reputation of faking guitar playing in the movies, it was obvious he wasn't trying to play also the soundtrack was recorded in the studio and he was maiming. Elvis could of course play guitar plus many other instruments, pretty good on piano maybe not in the same league as Jerry Lee Lewis but he could play to accompany his own singing which he was in a league of his own the best overall entertainer of all time the King
Just because you may love Elvis does not mean he was a great guitar player - he was merely competent at best
Never argue with people that have "heritage" in their name.
Fantastic analysis of Elvis playing guitar. Elvis was raw with guitar and thank God for the 68 special which displays Elvis playing.
Elvis never EVER considered himself a guitar player. In one of his last concerts he admitted he knew 3 chords. Who cares.....he brought more music and joy to the world than all of today’s crap combined. #greatestentertainerofalltime
That was Freddie Mercury’s who said he only knew three chords
The quote in question, and the one that prompted the video response, was taken from Elvis's last TV special, either the concert in Omaha or Rapid City, in 1977, 7 weeks before he died.
Elvis joked with the audience that he was "going to play the guitar. Believe it or not I actually know 3 chords.... But I faked them all for a long time".
He then launched into "That's alright Mama" playing the rhythm.
He was telling the truth. He had faked playing during his career, especially through the movie years BUT there are enough quotes from people that were there throughout his career that confirm he actually could play. He never ever said he was an expert though
@@MrGeorgetb Yes, he strummed basic rhythmic parts, with a few lead in notes attached. He was an entertainer, and playing great guitar was not required for what he did in his early career. He had Scotty Moore to supply a bit better guitar playing. Later he had James Burton to supply a bit more complex guitar parts.
sayerspiccolo lol Elvis Presley was a mediocre musician at best. MJ was who you must be taking about. He wrote and composed music. Superior on everyday. And b4 you bring yup the mass media brainwashi. Ill remind you that Elvis married his wife when she was 14, and that’s so sickening, that’s disgusting and there’s actual evidence to support it. Have a nice day
@@giannaluva65 Unbelievable level of ignorance displayed in your comment. Elvis Presley was recognized as pretty much being the starter of a revolution in music by the greatest musicians in the world . As John Lennon said "Before Elvis, there was nothing".
Also Elvis only MET Priscilla in Germany when she was 14 but married her when she was 21 when they reunited in the States. Elvis Presley was also MJs idol(the trash you spewed about Elvis would actually make your idol sad). In fact MJ was so obsessed with Elvis that he went as far as to marry his daughter, Lisa Marie. Please think before you post.
I'd be surprised if the Heritage fellow is honest enough to admit that this analysis is spot on. But as others have said, who cares? Let the haters hate. No sense wasting emotion on them. Well done video and analysis - I don't see how you could have made your point any better. You've made it plain for any honest person to see. Thanks.
Thanks! I hope so!
Thank You Fil for your great talent and standing up for Elvis a fellow musician and singer and putting people in their place. I enjoy great talent.
What I dislike is that so many of today’s so called performers make so much money and they can’t sing, play an instrument, read music, or anything.
Yes! The larger the butt the more popular they are it seems. I keep wishing a new dynamic record label will surface and showcase some real music. Bands that play instruments and sing without auto tune. Like INXS and Rolling Stones. Etc. ones with pure talent and charismatic front men and women. Not naked women parading around and so called “rappers “. Ugh. What has happened to music?
J Cali
That’s a good one. And it’s true.
well said
J F reading music has very little to do with having talent or not
@@jaydenp4975 there's people that are good today, just gotta look for them
Kudos, Teacher! It all looked clear enough to me.
Sounds like the gentleman might be an Elvis Hater
The dude is definitely an Elvis hater! No other logic is involved.
I was thinking the same thing ..
You obviously didn't watch the video, but just read the title. Lazy.
@@Only300s I think Robert was referring to this 'Nu-Heritage' guy being the Elvis hater, not Fil..
WAY too much anger on that post .
When you think acts like 'The Spice Girls, probably never did a 'live' Gig they mimed the whole show (and they are not alone by a long chalk) I think it's very unfair to pick on Elvis as he could play the guitar, he was a 'rhythm guitarist', not a lead guitarist, and in fact his early Sun recordings with just him on his Martin, Scotty on lead, and Bill on bass are my favourite recordings of Elvis. Elvis was first and foremost an 'Entertainer', there are millions of good guitarists out there but how many Elvis's are there.
I'm a guitar player but when I pick up a bass I always say am faking it because compared to a real bass player who knows his stuff I am faking It.
I don't play an instrument..but I have been around a lot of musicians..bands etc.hell I knew what you and Elvis meant
Ha!
It's funny you should say that because when the Beatles met Elvis in the mid-60s, they learned that he sat around all the time playing a bass.
Another classy, well thought out study of a legend. Thank you for putting in the work you do!
Elvis never claimed he was a great guitarist. He was a better piano player than a guitarist. I've been playing for 40 yrs myself and Elvis is playing the guitar. Great analysis on Elvis and Scotty Moore. James Burton was top notch.
I think Nuheritage is a frustrated Elvis basher.
Elvis was as humble as can be. Different time. He didn't write his songs either. His instrument was his unbelievable voice.
It's like complaining that EVH can't sing. Splitting hairs and majorly grasping for faults.
Keep doing what you do.
Agreed! Good ol' JB. Love his lead playing on his early Ricky Nelson stuff too.
I've seen an old interview where Elvis said he only knew 3 chords on a guitar.
@@freedomfest2741 he also claimed to be crazy. It's called being humble in the presence of lead guitarists. As mentioned in this video by Wings of Pegasus.
@@freedomfest2741 It was his humor. If you listen to his banter on stage, the guy was pretty funny. He was serious about how he performed, yet didn't take himself serious at the same time. I've never heard or seen anything where he puts himself above anyone.
BH 1964 Nuheritage is actually a JEALOUS Elvis basher!
You convinced me! Sometimes once a person says something they believe to be true, it is very hard for them to admit they are wrong. I think you did everything possible to prove this was not fake. Thanks, Fil❣️
I've watched to see if he was playing at this concert and it's obvious that he is, even before your hand is shown doing almost the exact same thing. His technique differs but he's hitting the right strings. How can someone who knows how to play not see this. You're bang on Fil. Thanks for the video!!!
Wow I love this pod cast.
Thanks!