On June 3, 1977, the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Elvis Presley, took to the stage for the last time in his life. The venue was the Market Square Arena in Indianapolis, Indiana, and the energy was electric. This performance marked the 55th show of the year for Elvis, and while it may have seemed like any other to his fans, it would ultimately be his final public appearance.
What made this particular show stand out was Elvis’s decision to bring family and friends on stage with him. He introduced them to the audience, and some fans would later speculate that he knew it would be his last performance. Others believed it was a gesture of goodwill, possibly in anticipation of the upcoming book “ELVIS: What Happened?” which would shed light on the darker side of his life.
The setlist for that night was a mix of his classic hits and newer material, showcasing his versatility as a performer. From “C.C. Rider” to “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” Elvis delivered a memorable performance that would be etched in the memories of those who witnessed it.
Tragically, Elvis’s life was cut short just two months later. He passed away on August 16, 1977, at his Graceland mansion in Memphis, Tennessee. The news of his death sent shockwaves around the world, and fans mourned the loss of a music legend.
In the years that followed, there has been some confusion about Elvis’s final performance, with many believing it to be the one shown on the CBS-TV “Elvis in Concert” event. However, the footage for that special was taken from concerts on June 19 and June 21, 1977, making the June 3 show in Indianapolis his actual final performance.
Elvis’s legacy continues to endure, and his music remains popular to this day. His final performance serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the moments we have. As a performer, Elvis left an indelible mark on the world, and his music will continue to inspire generations to come.
The Setlist:
– “C.C. Rider”
– “I Got A Woman/Amen”
– “Love Me”
– “Fairytale”
– “You Gave Me A Mountain”
– “Jailhouse Rock”
– “It’s Now Or Never”
– “Little Sister”
– “Teddy Bear”
– “Don’t Be Cruel”
– “Release Me”
– “I Can’t Stop Loving You”
– “Bridge Over Troubled Water”
– “Early Mornin’ Rain”
– “Johnny B. Goode”
– “I Really Don’t Want To Know”
– “Hurt”
– “Hound Dog”
– “Can’t Help Falling In Love”
Remembering the King:
Elvis Presley’s impact on music and popular culture cannot be overstated. He remains one of the most influential artists of all time, and his music continues to be celebrated by fans around the world. His final performance on June 3, 1977, serves as a reminder of his dedication to his craft and his enduring legacy.
