Elvis Presley’s final concerts in 1977 left a lasting impact on those who witnessed them, with his ex-girlfriend, Linda Thompson, describing the experience as “horrifying.” The legendary performer struggled with severe health issues, including liver damage and high blood pressure, as he prepared for his last tour. By the time of his final performances, which took place shortly before his death on August 16, 1977, he had noticeably deteriorated from the vibrant figure he once was.
Thompson, who had been with Presley for four years, ended their relationship around Christmas 1976, seeking a more stable life away from the pressures of his celebrity status. During his last months, the singer performed nearly 400 concerts between 1974 and 1976, yet the toll of his lifestyle was evident. His manager, Colonel Tom Parker, arranged for a final television special titled Elvis in Concert, which featured footage from concerts in Nebraska and South Dakota in June 1977. The special aired on CBS on October 3, 1977, two months after his passing.
Despite his declining health, the Elvis Presley Enterprises later stated, “Elvis was far from his best in the way he looked and the way he performed, though there are some truly brilliant moments in the footage.” The concert footage, which has not been commercially released, is available on platforms like YouTube.
Reflecting on the special, former member of the Memphis Mafia, Jerry Schilling, expressed his dismay upon viewing it, questioning Parker’s decision to film Presley in such a state. Thompson shared her shock as well, recalling, “I just remember standing and looking at the television set and thinking, ‘Oh my god, this is not even the same man that I said goodbye to eight months ago.’”
Despite the grim circumstances, there were poignant performances, particularly of “Unchained Melody.” Thompson noted the emotional weight of that moment, stating, “The power that he had on Unchained Melody that night was just gut-wrenching.” Tony Brown, Elvis’ pianist, remarked on the song’s significance, saying, “It was like the greatest performance he’d ever done.”
In the documentary Elvis: The Searcher, Priscilla Presley, Elvis’ ex-wife, commented on the struggles evident during his last shows. She stated, “Those last shows were not the most memorable as far as performance. Sometimes he didn’t get through a song.” She suggested that cancelling the shows might have been a better option, given his condition.
Rock and roll writer Nik Cohn also noted the challenges Presley faced during this period, describing how “night by night it became harder for him to carry on being Elvis.” Cohn added that despite the pain he endured, Presley found joy in the audience’s reactions, highlighting a complex relationship between his suffering and the pleasure he provided to his fans.
Elvis Presley passed away at the young age of 42 due to a heart attack, leaving behind a profound legacy that continues to resonate today. His final shows, while marked by struggle, also showcased the enduring talent that captivated millions around the world.
