We've had 46 presidents, but we had only ONE king. Elvis transported music to a level that only a few singers since him could emulate. Pure music and talent. No auto-tune, lip syncing, or distractions.
MY Point was that Elvis passed away 45 years ago, and his audience increased by 8 million just on Spotify since the New Elvis movie-- introducing him to a younger generation.
I genuinely think his goodness, humility and generosity transcends his music. This man had a big big heart, his donations eradicated Polio, he bought cars and houses for friends, employees and STRANGERS. He had his jeweller set up and gave out gold and jewellery to his fans. We love him for that alone, before we even get to his inimitable voice and stunning looks. And he was hilarious, rarely took himself seriously ❤
He stood up for humanity and compassion. In te day... and probbaly since he was the loudest advocate for the black comminities and those in poverty, which is where he came from
Elvis Always Sang From His Soul ! That’s The King Right There ! The Best Entertainer To Have Walked This Planet ! ❤Revolutionary Elvis ! Music Would Not Be What It Is Today If Not For Elvis ! Like John Lennon Said Before Elvis There Was Nothing !
Elvis vocalized what we were all feeling in 1968 when we lost both MLK & Bobby Kennedy; the whole country was shocked & horrified by their deaths. There was such a deep feeling of loss & despair; that is what Elvis was expressing in this song.
I love that you've discovered Elvis and the power of this song. It gives me good hopes for the future to see young men like you be moved by this. Elvis is timeless.
Never feel embarrassed for wiping a tear from your eyes when listening to this song. It means you are a real man who sees that we all can do better. Elvis did, he face harsh criticism and risked losing a large part of his fan base by performing this song. But he did it anyway. No matter who you are or your color, you have to respect that. I’m 62 and tear up every time l hear this song. I’ve seen a lot of changes for the good, but we still can do better. I haven’t given up hope, neither should the next generation. God bless.
Elvis and his parents were dirt poor. He grew up in predominantly poor, black neighborhoods in Tupelo, Miss & Memphis, TN. In high school he sang Gospel in a Black Baptist Church. He grew up with black culture, including its music genres. This was in the 1930 to 1950’s. Search for “Elvis Presley and the Black Community”. There are Parts 1 &2 !
Please at least watch the documentary it even if you don’t react to it. Elvis is considered racist by a lot of the black community and it’s because of two things, at least from what I’ve read. First, he was a culture vulture to some. They don’t know his background though. He grew up in Tupelo in one of four houses designated for white residents in an otherwise black neighborhood, during segregation. The only time he saw white kids was at school, where he was ostracized. His friends were his black neighbors. He hung out at their houses and went to church with them. He grew up on the same music they did so I could argue that it was his culture as well. He also gave credit where it was due and considered Fats Domino the king. Second, the April 1957 issue of Sepia magazine, a tabloid aimed at black readers, included an article where an anonymous person said they’d heard Elvis say the ‘only thing a [ethnic slur] can do for me is buy my records and shine my shoes’. Jet magazine investigated this at the time and reported that it was false. In the first part of the black community doc you’ll see how much the racist white people hated Elvis. Sepia magazine was owned by a WHITE man and based in Ft Worth, Texas. I find it mind blowing that a lot of people (and from what I’ve read it includes Chuck D from Public Enemy) believe a rumor started by a white man.
Elvis was never a racist. He treated everyone with respect. He loved his back up singers and treated them as equals. Some people were jealous of his stardom and wanted to tarnish his image.
King, I have watched your reaction of this song a few times. I read that his back up singers said they never saw Elvis sing a song with this much emotion. At the end they were all cry including Elvis.
Kudos to you for explaining the backstory of the song. Many people don't understand the tribute to Rev. Dr. King. Some people think Elvis is plagiarized the late reverend. Many people don't understand the risk Elvis took for performing this song LIVE on TV (an era of only 3 TV channels so everyone was watching). Happy birthday to you. And don't forget, as long as a man has the strength to dream, he can redeem his soul. Kindness is free ☮️
Great reaction. You and Elvis would have got on great. He was way way ahead of his time. Elvis stood up and spoke his message of peace and respect and love your brother human beings.
Yes, he was leaps and bounds ahead of his time. That's why he is still relevant and will be forever timeless. It's not the music we love, it's HIM and everything he stood for.
Elvis picked the subject and he wanted it to hearken back to Martin Luther King and his "I Have a Dream speech". I was only 16 at the time but this song affected everyone who watched the program, when my family heard it there was complete silence in the living room watching and hearing the song. As far as we were concerned it affected the whole nation, everyone talked about it for days after.
Elvis didn't pick the subject, nor request it reflect MLK's speech. Per 68 Special producer, Steve Binder, preliminary work began on the Special 2 days before Senator Robert F. Kennedy was shot. When the news of RFK came on the TV, everyone gathered together & spent the night watching, crying & talking & they got to know Elvis in a way they otherwise never would have. After seeing how deeply affected Elvis was by both MLK’s & RFK’s deaths, & other world issues, Binder went to musical director, Billy Goldenberg, to write an inspirational closing song, reflecting Elvis’ feelings. Billy was going to write it with Walter “Earl” Brown, but Earl wrote it all that same night. Earl said he drew inspiration from Sam Cooke’s song, A Change Is Gonna Come &, of course, MLK's speech. Earl also said, the next day, he was playing it for the producers & Col. Parker didn’t want Elvis to sing it, but Elvis overruled him.
I remember watching this performance with my family. When the song was done we were silent for about 20 min. 68 was a tough year. We lost RFK MLK and the Vietnam war was full blown. This song resonated with all of us and lives on in our memories even today.
Elvis was and still is the real deal, as relevant today as he was then. He had the voice, the looks, the heart that he loved everyone with. Thanks for your fine reaction. Keep playing Elvis, you won't regret it.
Coming out of London England, beautiful performance, born and raised dirt poor in tupelo, sorounded by gospel and the blues this man never saw a mans colour, humble and generous to all people , many people might not know but elvis had a twin sibling who sadly passed at birth , imagine two elvis dueting, many people tried to stop elvis performing this song but he believed like MLK, that through redemption and forgiveness we could make a better world, RIP ELVIS AARON PRESSLY
Elvis grew up in the church & specifically in a black church that was near his home which welcomed hiim & his mother.. gospel music was his absolute favorite & he had the largest collection of gospel music in america at one time... the network was opposed to his doing this song but he had so much respect & admiration for dr. king & took inspiration from him he stood his ground & basically said no song.. no special.. the infulence of his church upbringing is so up front in this performance & he literally did take us to church with this Thank you for sharing such an honest & heart touching reaction with us check out his performance of how great thou art the best video version is of him in a blue jumpsuit from 1972
The culmination of an entire CHILDHOOD and TEEN YEARS going to church in the poorest black and white ghettos in the South during the Great Depression and Segregation ... without a pot to pee in. Brother buried in a shoe box they was so poor. I think when you have all of God's gifts of singing abilities and all that real-life experience....born in that historic time period... with a brave yearning for the harmony of people, you get something like this to occur, once in a millennium. I've never heard a greater social justice song than this. This is sung with superhuman conviction.
The most powerful song Elvis has ever performed ,this song was also written for Elvis because of the senseless killing of MLk and Robert Kennedy,and Elvis loves everyone no matter what race they are,great message song ,
I still think this is one of the greatest performances ever. Especially given the timing. He's got so much soul and so much gospel in him. Did you hear how deflated he was at the very end when he put the mic up to his mouth and said thank you, good night and kind of almost panted once? He put his heart and soul into that and you can hear the pain in his voice like he's a wounded animal almost but then when he is authoritative, he is extremely authoritative. Still makes my allergies act up every time. There is another example of him really taking a risk and standing up for others. It was a couple years later after this when he was starting to play and tour a whole lot again, or actually I think it might have just been in the next year later, so 1969 maybe? And the Astrodome in Houston Texas was fairly new at the time and I'm not sure if anyone had ever played an arena concert there before, maybe, I'm not sure though. But you know how it's inside but they can open up the roof to let it partly be outside and all that kind of thing? Well that's the way they had it configured that day in the end. But, rewind a few days, and at some point the promoters setting up this huge gig for him at the Astrodome informed him that he can leave the black people behind. He had several black backing singers and a black clarinet player and not sure what all else, but when he heard that he got really angry. I read one account where those around him didn't even know at the time what he was dealing with when they were telling him that on the phone. All I know is he was on the phone with the promoters and he started to get really red in the face and he got really angry, and he started hurling furniture across the room and shouting into the phone. This is where the huge risk comes in. Once he calmed down, he gave them an ultimatum and said that if every member of his band cannot be there, then he will cancel the gig. Apparently it took them until the next day or something, and they finally got back and said Okay, you can bring the black people. So then he doubled down on it and he put his backing choir of all black women in this open convertible and made them part of the procession driving onto the baseball field to take a lap in front of this sold out stadium crowd and then over to where the stage was where they would perform. So they totally had the spotlight on them. 100%. But anyway, after he finished singing the song and he sounds just kind of exhausted afterwards? Apparently he went backstage and just cried for hours.
@Steve Dahlberg yes I've heard he did cry and I belive this man with this song, just truly sang his heart & spirit from the depths of his humanity..that takes a toll. I love love this plea of the song he's desparte for us to get it together. I'm not sure how many channels I've watched this performance, yeah I can't listen one just has to see his whole being, vulnerability pouring out. Well, we've another year to try and do better, not looking for utopia, though walking hand & hand as kids do when on their way to the playground, seems pretty perfect to me..💞☮💞
Thanks for keeping Elvis alive. Thanks for taking time to learn who he was and what he stood for. Elvis did a lot more than just music. He was a generous man and fought for people. He saw no color or class. It didn't matter who you were if Elvis could help he helped. He didn't even have to know you. And he never backed down what he wanted he got.
Loving your sincere and honest reaction. It’s wonderful that you are discovering Elvis for yourself and now sharing him on your channel. Elvis was a very loyal , kind and generous man, you’ll find his fans are also loyal and will appreciate your reactions to his records and especially his live performances. Thank you 👌💕🕺
One of his greatest performances. Elvis grew up very poor in a black community. The best way that I have heard it described is that Elvis was color blind. He loved everyone for who they were and could not understand why things were the way that they were. He fought so hard for change. It is said that after this performance he collapsed to hus knees and cried in his dressing room. I love your reaction thank you for sharing such a special sing. TCB 👑⚡️
Hey King, thanks for sharing your honest review of Elvis Pressly. I am 64 years old and this song brings strong emotions every time that I listen to it. Elvis was not a perfect man, but he had the ability to captivate millions of listeners and viewers through his music and acting abilities. Women and even men found themselves unable to understand why they fell in love with his abilities to this day! Just like Michael Jackson and other great musicians, he was one of a kind!
A friend of mine in his late 70s does If I Can Dream at Karaoke ... proper belts it out and gets the whole place going ... makes me quite emotional. Never forgotten Elvis ... NEVER!!
Elvis had to play in the Houston Astrodome but they didn't want his back up singers to sing. Elvis said if they can't sing I won't either. That says alot about Elvis's character. U need to do some research on what had to go thru in the 50"s to sing his music. U will be amazed.
Thank you. You are one of the first reaction videos that said, "Times were way worse then". The others all say, "we are still struggling with this". Yes we are but in 1968 the world is WAY different than it is today.
Happy Birthday Week !! Thank You so much for your thoughtful reactions of Elvis. Here are two more Elvis songs with a message: ELVIS - "WALK A MILE IN MY SHOES" (Special Edit) 1970 Live Las Vegas AND Elvis - "In The Ghetto" Official Music Video 1970
I like your reaction a lot, man👍 This song is timeless. Elvis is timeless. The song is based on the assasination of Martin Luther King that year and his speech I have a dream. Elvis was very shocked about the killing of MLK and he cried for him. Elvis was a very religious and humble man. Also Elvis was the one, who connected and mediated between black and white in the 50's when he started out. Elvis mixed differend genres of music togehter, like Blues, Rhythm and Blues, Gospel and Country music and created a new style of of music and change the face of pop(ular) music forever. He was a revolution in many ways. In social things like hairstyle, clothes, sexuality, the way of thinking, the separation of black and white and more. He was criticized by the hardest by the etablishment. The police filmed his live shows in order not to move like a black singer in public. They showed him from the waist up in TV, because of his moves. But Elvis went his way. The rest is history. Elv1s has the biggest impact and influence. Most of the black musicians prefer Elvis when it comes to their influence. Elvis opened the door for everyone, also for white singers. Also white musicians prefer Elvis when it comes to their influence and inspiration. Many stars have come and gone, but Elv1s 👑 is the whole universe and the big bang 💥 Please react to BRIDGE OVER TROUBLED WATER, LIVE 1970: ruclips.net/video/70dT1-WhBFM/видео.html It will also overwhelm you!
I don't know if u were told this but but Elvis wanted to be sure this song was included in his Comeback Special. He was still hurting over the assassination of Martin Luther King. Stories told by people who were with him the day he saw it on TV or heard on radio, I forgot which, they say Elvis was so upset. It affected him deeply. If I Can Dream was a song which he wanted to perform in honor of Mr. King.
Elvis is endlessly fascinating and a true historical figure. You could read about his interesting life without the music, especially in terms of his kindness, generosity, and respect for other people. Sadly, he and his reputation have been exploited, misunderstood, and in some cases, knowingly misrepresented by others for their own purpose so people don't know that Elvis did things like help get the Pearl Harbor Memorial finished, sponsored the first St. Jude's Hospital, and gave out thousands every year (at Christmas) while never taking a tax break. Learn more about him, I promise that he's worth it.
Hey sweetheart, I just love your beautiful Elvis reaction to this powerful performance, he puts his all in everything he touched and he really put his career in the line because of this beautiful song by Elvis, I think this beautiful song by Elvis should be shown on the TV commercials around the world, we need it now just as bad as then, tell all your friends and share the Elvis journey with them, his music and performances are timeless,, love your dedication to listening to the words so clearly , and yes he meant everything he was singing, great reaction to Elvis. TCB 1935🕺🕺🕺⚡⚡⚡⚡👑👑👑🎵🎵🎵🔥🔥🔥🔥🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
I'm in my 70s, a fan of Elvis since I was 12. They wanted him to sing a Christmas song. He said no. I don't know if anyone fought him on it but it's true, he loved MLK and RFK. He was devastated when they were killed.
Absolutely everyone was against Elvis doing this song, from the TV executives to Elvis' own people. They all said the song was too controversial, especially as there were race riots going on at this time after MLK's murder, and Bobby Kennedy's as well. Elvis told his manager that the only way he wasn't going to perform this song was over his dead body. He stood his ground until he won. That's how important this plea for racial equality was too him. Keep in mind that this was 1968 when equality was not at all accepted and segregation still existed. It was extremely brave of him to take a public stand and risk everything. I have to tell you that I have watched lots of reactions to this song but enjoyed yours the most! First, you actually presented the background information that makes the song more impactful to those hearing it for the first time. Second, you really listened to the powerful lyrics and reacted to the actual message, whereas some reviewers say rather shallow things like that Elvis was saying to follow your dream whatever it is; no, he was saying that MLK's dream of social equality should come true. Some reviewers simply comment that he looked sharp in the white suit, not getting the point that Elvis was dressed simply, like he was going to church, rather than in a flashy costume, out of respect to MLK and the serious subject of the song. Your emotion at hearing his emotion was so touching. You showed that you understood the man's heart and recognized his courage in insisting this song end his comeback special, even against stiff opposition. Bravo to you for being the kind, caring person you seem to be!!
Elvis was a southern boy and was raised in poverty and in a time of hate. He was one of those that didn’t believe in hate, he was kind and shy. He was different then the places he was raised. He wanted people to love and have peace. Love your brothers and sisters. ❤
Man - love your reaction to this - I feel Elvis needs to be brought back and respected - I totally get why I saw my dad cry for the first time when Elvis died - I'd love more people to find him - he was a King for a reason - what a vocal?
Merry Christmas and a happy and Healthy 2023 to you and your family King D. Elvis loved giving.. and gave away just about everything he made… almost every dime. He bought a few grand things for himself… but most grand thing he bought to give to others. Elvis bought a yacht- gave it to St Jude’s and with the money built the very first legendary St Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Imagine how many children that hospital saved???
He never sang that song again. After this performance he went backstage and broke down. MLK was murdered where Elvis grew up. Elvis' family was very very poor and he grew up in the ghetto's of Tupelo, Mississippi and Memphis TN. There's a lot of great things Elvis did for others. He was way ahead of his time with his music and his views. So happy to see the younger generations finding him and enjoying his music. Elvis will always be the 👑 KING! ❤️
I know you did this reaction a while back, I just found it. I've seen many reactions to this song. YOUR reaction is my favorite. You are the only person who found out about the song BEFORE you listened so it gives your understanding depth....so well done, Sir.
Great reaction..being new to Elvis you should check out Elvis and the black community..that echo will never die..it's extremely interesting with a lot of good information..Thanks ✌️
I love that you showed so much emotion..It actually made me cry to see that Elvis is still touching ppl with his messages.. It's what he wanted and loved all ppl... Thank u again
I’m pretty sure Elvis only performed this song live one other time. Dr. King getting assassinated a few months prior absolutely shattered him. Emotionally this song was just too much for him.
However, despite their differences, the two men were actually friends. Elvis and MLK first met in December of 1961, when Elvis was in Washington D.C. to receive an award from President Kennedy. MLK was also in attendance, and the two men struck up a conversation.Nov 13, 2022
This is the song,he sang his heart and soul out he gave so much in this song(when he left the stage and he literally passed out from exhaustion (it truly happened
Hey sweetheart, Happy birthday to you on the 16 of December, would love to go back in time sometimes, just so I could relive the concerts of Elvis that I was blessed to see, I was only 17 when he left us and that is still the worst day of my life. Thanks again TCB.
We've had 46 presidents, but we had only ONE king.
Elvis transported music to a level that only a few singers since him could emulate. Pure music and talent. No auto-tune, lip syncing, or distractions.
He and his backing ladies cried after this song was finished that's how emotional he was, not only that he grew up dirt poor.
I Loved that you Loved it!!! A year and a half ago, 19 million people were listening to Elvis on Spotify..but Now, it's 27 million now.
In the 70 s in Hawaii there was 1 billion people were listening to Elvis when he gave a concert there world wide
Great reaction young man👍🏼🎼💗
Fun fact. Me and my brother had the most time listened to Elvis in the world last year.
I'm surprised we didn't get awarded with a medal of some sort😂
MY Point was that Elvis passed away 45 years ago, and his audience increased by 8 million just on Spotify since the New Elvis movie-- introducing him to a younger generation.
I did not know he was increasing in popularity again. Very awesome info
It is said that Elvis dropped to his knees crying immediately after saying "Thank you. Good night." at the end.
Elvis was humble. I don't think he ever forgot where he started from.
He had a good heart and he loved people. His heart shined through. This is why we loved Elvis.
And still do💕
I genuinely think his goodness, humility and generosity transcends his music.
This man had a big big heart, his donations eradicated Polio, he bought cars and houses for friends, employees and STRANGERS. He had his jeweller set up and gave out gold and jewellery to his fans. We love him for that alone, before we even get to his inimitable voice and stunning looks.
And he was hilarious, rarely took himself seriously ❤
He stood up for humanity and compassion. In te day... and probbaly since he was the loudest advocate for the black comminities and those in poverty, which is where he came from
Elvis Always Sang From His Soul ! That’s The King Right There ! The Best Entertainer To Have Walked This Planet ! ❤Revolutionary Elvis ! Music Would Not Be What It Is Today If Not For Elvis ! Like John Lennon Said Before Elvis There Was Nothing !
Elvis vocalized what we were all feeling in 1968 when we lost both MLK & Bobby Kennedy; the whole country was shocked & horrified by their deaths. There was such a deep feeling of loss & despair; that is what Elvis was expressing in this song.
I love that you've discovered Elvis and the power of this song. It gives me good hopes for the future to see young men like you be moved by this. Elvis is timeless.
Never feel embarrassed for wiping a tear from your eyes when listening to this song. It means you are a real man who sees that we all can do better. Elvis did, he face harsh criticism and risked losing a large part of his fan base by performing this song. But he did it anyway. No matter who you are or your color, you have to respect that. I’m 62 and tear up every time l hear this song. I’ve seen a lot of changes for the good, but we still can do better. I haven’t given up hope, neither should the next generation. God bless.
Elvis and his parents were dirt poor. He grew up in predominantly poor, black neighborhoods in Tupelo, Miss & Memphis, TN. In high school he sang Gospel in a Black Baptist Church. He grew up with black culture, including its music genres. This was in the 1930 to 1950’s. Search for “Elvis Presley and the Black Community”. There are Parts 1 &2 !
Please at least watch the documentary it even if you don’t react to it. Elvis is considered racist by a lot of the black community and it’s because of two things, at least from what I’ve read.
First, he was a culture vulture to some. They don’t know his background though. He grew up in Tupelo in one of four houses designated for white residents in an otherwise black neighborhood, during segregation. The only time he saw white kids was at school, where he was ostracized. His friends were his black neighbors. He hung out at their houses and went to church with them. He grew up on the same music they did so I could argue that it was his culture as well. He also gave credit where it was due and considered Fats Domino the king.
Second, the April 1957 issue of Sepia magazine, a tabloid aimed at black readers, included an article where an anonymous person said they’d heard Elvis say the ‘only thing a [ethnic slur] can do for me is buy my records and shine my shoes’. Jet magazine investigated this at the time and reported that it was false.
In the first part of the black community doc you’ll see how much the racist white people hated Elvis. Sepia magazine was owned by a WHITE man and based in Ft Worth, Texas. I find it mind blowing that a lot of people (and from what I’ve read it includes Chuck D from Public Enemy) believe a rumor started by a white man.
Elvis was never a racist. He treated everyone with respect. He loved his back up singers and treated them as equals. Some people were jealous of his stardom and wanted to tarnish his image.
He believed every word he sang. What a powerful performance. Wow.
King, I have watched your reaction of this song a few times. I read that his back up singers said they never saw Elvis sing a song with this much emotion. At the end they were all cry including Elvis.
Kudos to you for explaining the backstory of the song. Many people don't understand the tribute to Rev. Dr. King. Some people think Elvis is plagiarized the late reverend.
Many people don't understand the risk Elvis took for performing this song LIVE on TV (an era of only 3 TV channels so everyone was watching).
Happy birthday to you. And don't forget, as long as a man has the strength to dream, he can redeem his soul. Kindness is free ☮️
It was also for Bobby Kennedy who was assassinated in 1968 also
YES BOBBY IS SHORT FOR ROBERT.....😊
Elvis and the black community tells you all you need to know about Elvis.
I am so glad to see the people who are discovering what a HUGE Man he was ,and used his fame to further peace between everybody!
You're 💯% right about Elvis' passion during this performance. He was in a lot of pain over those assassinations 😭
Greatest live performance ever
Great reaction. You and Elvis would have got on great. He was way way ahead of his time. Elvis stood up and spoke his message of peace and respect and love your brother human beings.
Yes, he was leaps and bounds ahead of his time. That's why he is still relevant and will be forever timeless. It's not the music we love, it's HIM and everything he stood for.
Elvis picked the subject and he wanted it to hearken back to Martin Luther King and his "I Have a Dream speech". I was only 16 at the time but this song affected everyone who watched the program, when my family heard it there was complete silence in the living room watching and hearing the song. As far as we were concerned it affected the whole nation, everyone talked about it for days after.
Elvis didn't pick the subject, nor request it reflect MLK's speech. Per 68 Special producer, Steve Binder, preliminary work began on the Special 2 days before Senator Robert F. Kennedy was shot. When the news of RFK came on the TV, everyone gathered together & spent the night watching, crying & talking & they got to know Elvis in a way they otherwise never would have. After seeing how deeply affected Elvis was by both MLK’s & RFK’s deaths, & other world issues, Binder went to musical director, Billy Goldenberg, to write an inspirational closing song, reflecting Elvis’ feelings. Billy was going to write it with Walter “Earl” Brown, but Earl wrote it all that same night. Earl said he drew inspiration from Sam Cooke’s song, A Change Is Gonna Come &, of course, MLK's speech. Earl also said, the next day, he was playing it for the producers & Col. Parker didn’t want Elvis to sing it, but Elvis overruled him.
@@wnsafford1854 100% correct
I remember watching this performance with my family. When the song was done we were silent for about 20 min. 68 was a tough year. We lost RFK MLK and the Vietnam war was full blown. This song resonated with all of us and lives on in our memories even today.
This is genuine talent... no autotune, a live band. You can feel his emotions
Elvis was speaking to the entire world with this performance
Well done. Glad to see another generation hear this message. ❤❤
Elvis was and still is the real deal, as relevant today as he was then. He had the voice, the looks, the heart that he loved everyone with. Thanks for your fine reaction. Keep playing Elvis, you won't regret it.
Coming out of London England, beautiful performance, born and raised dirt poor in tupelo, sorounded by gospel and the blues this man never saw a mans colour, humble and generous to all people , many people might not know but elvis had a twin sibling who sadly passed at birth , imagine two elvis dueting, many people tried to stop elvis performing this song but he believed like MLK, that through redemption and forgiveness we could make a better world, RIP ELVIS AARON PRESSLY
You can feel his “soul” 💙
They said after he performed the song he fell down and cried and cried, and said it took a lot to get him back to normal again
Everyone should know Elvis ❤
My heart is full when I see music that touched my soul many years ago is still touching souls today 💙
WE ARE ONE ❤
Elvis grew up in the church & specifically in a black church that was near his home which welcomed hiim & his mother..
gospel music was his absolute favorite & he had the largest collection of gospel music in america at one time...
the network was opposed to his doing this song but he had so much respect & admiration for dr. king & took inspiration from him he stood his ground & basically said no song.. no special..
the infulence of his church upbringing is so up front in this performance & he literally did take us to church with this
Thank you for sharing such an honest & heart touching reaction with us
check out his performance of how great thou art the best video version is of him in a blue jumpsuit from 1972
The culmination of an entire CHILDHOOD and TEEN YEARS going to church in the poorest black and white ghettos in the South during the Great Depression and Segregation ... without a pot to pee in. Brother buried in a shoe box they was so poor. I think when you have all of God's gifts of singing abilities and all that real-life experience....born in that historic time period... with a brave yearning for the harmony of people, you get something like this to occur, once in a millennium. I've never heard a greater social justice song than this. This is sung with superhuman conviction.
The most powerful song Elvis has ever performed ,this song was also written for Elvis because of the senseless killing of MLk and Robert Kennedy,and Elvis loves everyone no matter what race they are,great message song ,
I still think this is one of the greatest performances ever. Especially given the timing. He's got so much soul and so much gospel in him. Did you hear how deflated he was at the very end when he put the mic up to his mouth and said thank you, good night and kind of almost panted once? He put his heart and soul into that and you can hear the pain in his voice like he's a wounded animal almost but then when he is authoritative, he is extremely authoritative. Still makes my allergies act up every time.
There is another example of him really taking a risk and standing up for others. It was a couple years later after this when he was starting to play and tour a whole lot again, or actually I think it might have just been in the next year later, so 1969 maybe? And the Astrodome in Houston Texas was fairly new at the time and I'm not sure if anyone had ever played an arena concert there before, maybe, I'm not sure though. But you know how it's inside but they can open up the roof to let it partly be outside and all that kind of thing? Well that's the way they had it configured that day in the end.
But, rewind a few days, and at some point the promoters setting up this huge gig for him at the Astrodome informed him that he can leave the black people behind. He had several black backing singers and a black clarinet player and not sure what all else, but when he heard that he got really angry. I read one account where those around him didn't even know at the time what he was dealing with when they were telling him that on the phone. All I know is he was on the phone with the promoters and he started to get really red in the face and he got really angry, and he started hurling furniture across the room and shouting into the phone.
This is where the huge risk comes in. Once he calmed down, he gave them an ultimatum and said that if every member of his band cannot be there, then he will cancel the gig. Apparently it took them until the next day or something, and they finally got back and said Okay, you can bring the black people.
So then he doubled down on it and he put his backing choir of all black women in this open convertible and made them part of the procession driving onto the baseball field to take a lap in front of this sold out stadium crowd and then over to where the stage was where they would perform. So they totally had the spotlight on them. 100%.
But anyway, after he finished singing the song and he sounds just kind of exhausted afterwards? Apparently he went backstage and just cried for hours.
@Steve Dahlberg yes I've heard he did cry and I belive this man with this song, just truly sang his heart & spirit from the depths of his humanity..that takes a toll. I love love this plea of the song he's desparte for us to get it together. I'm not sure how many channels I've watched this performance, yeah I can't listen one just has to see his whole being, vulnerability pouring out. Well, we've another year to try and do better, not looking for utopia, though walking hand & hand as kids do when on their way to the playground, seems pretty perfect to me..💞☮💞
Thanks for keeping Elvis alive. Thanks for taking time to learn who he was and what he stood for. Elvis did a lot more than just music. He was a generous man and fought for people. He saw no color or class. It didn't matter who you were if Elvis could help he helped. He didn't even have to know you. And he never backed down what he wanted he got.
He was the biggest star in the world. THE WORLD. This song mattered.
Thanks for enjoying Elvis ... a beautiful man with a stunning voice and a heart of gold ... there'll never be another like him . TCB forever !
Happy Happy Birthday 🎉🥳🎊🎈🎈🎈🎈🎁🎊🎉🎈
Loving your sincere and honest reaction. It’s wonderful that you are discovering Elvis for yourself and now sharing him on your channel. Elvis was a very loyal , kind and generous man, you’ll find his fans are also loyal and will appreciate your reactions to his records and especially his live performances. Thank you 👌💕🕺
It's so great to see young people like you finding out about Elvis. He was a once-in-a-lifetime talent.
Right Now! love you Elvis and miss you.....
Elvis, Goat of all times
One of his greatest performances. Elvis grew up very poor in a black community. The best way that I have heard it described is that Elvis was color blind. He loved everyone for who they were and could not understand why things were the way that they were. He fought so hard for change. It is said that after this performance he collapsed to hus knees and cried in his dressing room. I love your reaction thank you for sharing such a special sing. TCB 👑⚡️
You are very intuitive. Elvis was deeply passionate. He sang from his soul.
Hey King, thanks for sharing your honest review of Elvis Pressly. I am 64 years old and this song brings strong emotions every time that I listen to it. Elvis was not a perfect man, but he had the ability to captivate millions of listeners and viewers through his music and acting abilities. Women and even men found themselves unable to understand why they fell in love with his abilities to this day! Just like Michael Jackson and other great musicians, he was one of a kind!
Happy birthday young man listening to one n only the king the legend still miss love him all this years😭😭😭😭
You can hear his Gospel and Blues influences so clearly.
Powerhouse voice.
A friend of mine in his late 70s does If I Can Dream at Karaoke ... proper belts it out and gets the whole place going ... makes me quite emotional. Never forgotten Elvis ... NEVER!!
I grew up in Memphis and it was my job, in the car, to watch for Elvis!! He ALWAYS waved! Forever the King of Rock-n-Roll
2022🤩 The year of Elvis comeback!
Elvis did this song If I Can Dream, for his friend Dr Martin Luther King. I Had A Dream! There is a lot of emotion in this song by Elvis.
Exactly, Elvis was very brave, and definitely stopd for the truth, regardless of the consequences!! Much respect for seeing that!!!
You should definitely check out the video “Elvis and the black community. The echo will never die” Great reaction!
More Elvis please ❤️. Maybe you can start with " Elvis and the black community that eco will never die".
שיר מדהים מלא רגש.אהבתי מאוד❤🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🫶🫶🫶🫶🫶🫶
Thank you for letting people know Elvis was a good man, thank you for keeping him in people minds.
He was the nicest man ever ,a Great Humanitarian who tried to help so many !
Elvis had to play in the Houston Astrodome but they didn't want his back up singers to sing. Elvis said if they can't sing I won't either. That says alot about Elvis's character. U need to do some research on what had to go thru in the 50"s to sing his music. U will be amazed.
Thank you. You are one of the first reaction videos that said, "Times were way worse then". The others all say, "we are still struggling with this". Yes we are but in 1968 the world is WAY different than it is today.
Happy Birthday Week !!
Thank You so much for your thoughtful reactions of Elvis.
Here are two more Elvis songs with a message:
ELVIS - "WALK A MILE IN MY SHOES" (Special Edit)
1970 Live Las Vegas
AND
Elvis - "In The Ghetto"
Official Music Video
1970
I like your reaction a lot, man👍
This song is timeless. Elvis is timeless. The song is based on the assasination of Martin Luther King that year and his speech I have a dream.
Elvis was very shocked about the killing of MLK and he cried for him. Elvis was a very religious and humble man.
Also Elvis was the one, who connected and mediated between black and white in the 50's when he started out. Elvis mixed differend genres of music togehter, like Blues, Rhythm and Blues, Gospel and Country music and created a new style of of music and change the face of pop(ular) music forever. He was a revolution in many ways. In social things like hairstyle, clothes, sexuality, the way of thinking, the separation of black and white and more. He was criticized by the hardest by the etablishment. The police filmed his live shows in order not to move like a black singer in public. They showed him from the waist up in TV, because of his moves. But Elvis went his way. The rest is history. Elv1s has the biggest impact and influence. Most of the black musicians prefer Elvis when it comes to their influence. Elvis opened the door for everyone, also for white singers. Also white musicians prefer Elvis when it comes to their influence and inspiration.
Many stars have come and gone, but Elv1s 👑 is the whole universe and the big bang 💥
Please react to BRIDGE OVER TROUBLED WATER, LIVE 1970:
ruclips.net/video/70dT1-WhBFM/видео.html
It will also overwhelm you!
I don't know if u were told this but but Elvis wanted to be sure this song was included in his Comeback Special. He was still hurting over the assassination of Martin Luther King. Stories told by people who were with him the day he saw it on TV or heard on radio, I forgot which, they say Elvis was so upset. It affected him deeply. If I Can Dream was a song which he wanted to perform in honor of Mr. King.
Elvis stood up for what he believed in! That Everyone..... Is created Equal!!!
Elvis is endlessly fascinating and a true historical figure. You could read about his interesting life without the music, especially in terms of his kindness, generosity, and respect for other people. Sadly, he and his reputation have been exploited, misunderstood, and in some cases, knowingly misrepresented by others for their own purpose so people don't know that Elvis did things like help get the Pearl Harbor Memorial finished, sponsored the first St. Jude's Hospital, and gave out thousands every year (at Christmas) while never taking a tax break. Learn more about him, I promise that he's worth it.
GOAT
Hey sweetheart, I just love your beautiful Elvis reaction to this powerful performance, he puts his all in everything he touched and he really put his career in the line because of this beautiful song by Elvis, I think this beautiful song by Elvis should be shown on the TV commercials around the world, we need it now just as bad as then, tell all your friends and share the Elvis journey with them, his music and performances are timeless,, love your dedication to listening to the words so clearly , and yes he meant everything he was singing, great reaction to Elvis. TCB 1935🕺🕺🕺⚡⚡⚡⚡👑👑👑🎵🎵🎵🔥🔥🔥🔥🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
I'm in my 70s, a fan of Elvis since I was 12. They wanted him to sing a Christmas song. He said no. I don't know if anyone fought him on it but it's true, he loved MLK and RFK. He was devastated when they were killed.
i subscribed to your chaneil because you took time to read up on the song not just set there like everone else thank have a great day
Absolutely everyone was against Elvis doing this song, from the TV executives to Elvis' own people. They all said the song was too controversial, especially as there were race riots going on at this time after MLK's murder, and Bobby Kennedy's as well. Elvis told his manager that the only way he wasn't going to perform this song was over his dead body. He stood his ground until he won. That's how important this plea for racial equality was too him. Keep in mind that this was 1968 when equality was not at all accepted and segregation still existed. It was extremely brave of him to take a public stand and risk everything.
I have to tell you that I have watched lots of reactions to this song but enjoyed yours the most! First, you actually presented the background information that makes the song more impactful to those hearing it for the first time. Second, you really listened to the powerful lyrics and reacted to the actual message, whereas some reviewers say rather shallow things like that Elvis was saying to follow your dream whatever it is; no, he was saying that MLK's dream of social equality should come true. Some reviewers simply comment that he looked sharp in the white suit, not getting the point that Elvis was dressed simply, like he was going to church, rather than in a flashy costume, out of respect to MLK and the serious subject of the song.
Your emotion at hearing his emotion was so touching. You showed that you understood the man's heart and recognized his courage in insisting this song end his comeback special, even against stiff opposition. Bravo to you for being the kind, caring person you seem to be!!
He stood up for everyone and anyone I love this song
Elvis was a southern boy and was raised in poverty and in a time of hate. He was one of those that didn’t believe in hate, he was kind and shy. He was different then the places he was raised. He wanted people to love and have peace. Love your brothers and sisters. ❤
Thank you! I absolutely loved Elvis as a kid and remember vividly the day he died. So glad other generations are appreciating him.
This song always gives me chills.
Elvis Presley LIVES...!!!!
I enjoyed your reaction and that’s a dream everyone should have every day!! Peace, love, and happiness to you my friend
Man - love your reaction to this - I feel Elvis needs to be brought back and respected - I totally get why I saw my dad cry for the first time when Elvis died - I'd love more people to find him - he was a King for a reason - what a vocal?
Merry Christmas and a happy and Healthy 2023 to you and your family King D.
Elvis loved giving.. and gave away just about everything he made… almost every dime. He bought a few grand things for himself… but most grand thing he bought to give to others. Elvis bought a yacht- gave it to St Jude’s and with the money built the very first legendary St Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Imagine how many children that hospital saved???
That’s why he’s the King.
Great reaction !
He never sang that song again. After this performance he went backstage and broke down. MLK was murdered where Elvis grew up. Elvis' family was very very poor and he grew up in the ghetto's of Tupelo, Mississippi and Memphis TN.
There's a lot of great things Elvis did for others. He was way ahead of his time with his music and his views.
So happy to see the younger generations finding him and enjoying his music. Elvis will always be the 👑 KING! ❤️
Wonderful depiction analysis-i cried
I know you did this reaction a while back, I just found it. I've seen many reactions to this song. YOUR reaction is my favorite. You are the only person who found out about the song BEFORE you listened so it gives your understanding depth....so well done, Sir.
Love my man Elvis beautiful inside and out
Great reaction..being new to Elvis you should check out Elvis and the black community..that echo will never die..it's extremely interesting with a lot of good information..Thanks ✌️
I cried so hard
We need to go back Robert Kennedy speech ❤❤❤
I love that you showed so much emotion..It actually made me cry to see that Elvis is still touching ppl with his messages.. It's what he wanted and loved all ppl... Thank u again
I’m pretty sure Elvis only performed this song live one other time. Dr. King getting assassinated a few months prior absolutely shattered him. Emotionally this song was just too much for him.
You are right. He only performed it once ❤
He was the King !!!
However, despite their differences, the two men were actually friends. Elvis and MLK first met in December of 1961, when Elvis was in Washington D.C. to receive an award from President Kennedy. MLK was also in attendance, and the two men struck up a conversation.Nov 13, 2022
This is the song,he sang his heart and soul out he gave so much in this song(when he left the stage and he literally passed out from exhaustion (it truly happened
Elvis will always........and eventually touch your heart🥰🥰🥰
Thank you
Beautiful song Elvis sings a lot ❤️
Thank You❤️
Welcome to the Elvisfamily, it is filled with LOVE and FUN❤️😉
Hey sweetheart, Happy birthday to you on the 16 of December, would love to go back in time sometimes, just so I could relive the concerts of Elvis that I was blessed to see, I was only 17 when he left us and that is still the worst day of my life. Thanks again TCB.
U can hear the emotion and passion for what he’s trying to get through.