Elvis Presley’s Electrifying Revival: ‘Blue Suede Shoes’ from the ’68 Comeback Special

Did you know

Certainly! “Blue Suede Shoes” is a classic rock and roll song famously performed by Elvis Presley during his ’68 Comeback Special. Here are some details about the song and the performance:

• Song Background: “Blue Suede Shoes” was written and originally recorded by Carl Perkins in 1955. It became a massive hit in the early days of rock and roll and is considered one of the genre’s defining songs. Elvis Presley was a big fan of Carl Perkins and his music.
• ’68 Comeback Special: Elvis Presley’s ’68 Comeback Special was a television event that aired on December 3, 1968. It marked his return to live performances after several years of concentrating on movie roles. The special was a pivotal moment in his career.
• Performance: During the ’68 Comeback Special, Elvis performed “Blue Suede Shoes” as part of a medley that also included “One Night” and “Don’t Be Cruel.” He performed it with high energy and enthusiasm, capturing the essence of the early rock and roll era.
• Outfit: For this performance, Elvis wore a black leather outfit, which has become iconic. This outfit contributed to the image of Elvis as a charismatic and rebellious rock and roll star.
• Television Ratings: The ’68 Comeback Special was a major success in terms of television ratings, and it helped rejuvenate Elvis’s career. It showcased his versatility as an artist, combining intimate acoustic segments with the electrifying rock and roll performance of “Blue Suede Shoes.”
• Album Release: The live version of “Blue Suede Shoes” from the ’68 Comeback Special was included on the soundtrack album, “Elvis,” which was released in 1968.
• Legacy: Elvis Presley’s performance of “Blue Suede Shoes” during the ’68 Comeback Special is considered one of the standout moments of the special and is often remembered as a defining moment in his career. It reaffirmed his status as the King of Rock and Roll.
• Cultural Impact: The phrase “Blue suede shoes” has become synonymous with the song and is often used colloquially to refer to any cherished possession or something you should be careful not to damage.

Overall, Elvis Presley’s rendition of “Blue Suede Shoes” during his ’68 Comeback Special is a memorable and iconic performance that continues to be celebrated by fans and music enthusiasts alike. It captures the raw energy and charisma that made Elvis a legendary figure in the history of rock and roll.

Video

Lyrics

Well, it’s one for the money,
Two for the show,
Three to get ready,
Now go, cat, go.

But don’t you step on my blue suede shoes.
You can do anything but lay off of my Blue suede shoes.

Well, you can knock me down,
Step in my face,
Slander my name
All over the place.

Do anything that you want to do, but uh-uh,
Honey, lay off of my shoes
Don’t you step on my Blue suede shoes.
You can do anything but lay off of my blue suede shoes.

You can burn my house,
Steal my car,
Drink my liquor
From an old fruitjar.

Do anything that you want to do, but uh-uh,
Honey, lay off of my shoes
Don’t you step on my blue suede shoes.
You can do anything but lay off of my blue suede shoes.