Elvis Presley’s performance of “Blue Suede Shoes” during the 1968 NBC television special, commonly referred to as the “’ 68 Comeback Special,” remains one of the defining moments in his career and the history of rock ‘n’ roll. This performance marked Presley’s triumphant return to live music, a decade after he had shifted his focus primarily to acting in Hollywood. The song itself, “Blue Suede Shoes,” was written and originally performed by Carl Perkins in 1955. It quickly became a rockabilly anthem with its catchy rhythm and rebellious spirit, symbolizing the emerging youth culture of the 1950s.
Elvis first recorded “Blue Suede Shoes” in 1956, shortly after Perkins’ version became a hit. His rendition, released as part of his debut album Elvis Presley, was faithful to Perkins’ original, showcasing the then-young performer’s raw vocal energy and rhythmic guitar work. While Elvis’ version was not initially promoted as a single (out of respect for Perkins, who had been injured in a car accident just as his song was rising in the charts), it nonetheless contributed to the song’s increasing popularity and reinforced Elvis’ image as a rock ‘n’ roll star.
By the time of the ’68 Comeback Special, Elvis had spent most of the 1960s in Hollywood, where his career, although commercially successful, left him artistically unfulfilled. The special, broadcast on December 3, 1968, was designed to reintroduce Elvis as a live performer and rekindle his connection with his fans. Directed by Steve Binder, the show was a mix of intimate, informal jam sessions and larger-scale staged performances, and it featured a selection of Elvis’ hits alongside new material.
Elvis’ performance of “Blue Suede Shoes” was both a nod to his past and a powerful reminder of his musical roots. In a dynamic, confident rendition, Elvis brought a sense of grit and urgency to the classic rock song, combining swagger with impeccable vocal control. Clad in his now-iconic black leather suit, Elvis exuded charisma and charm, capturing the rebellious energy of rock ‘n’ roll that had initially propelled him to stardom. The ’68 Comeback Special not only reinvigorated Elvis’ career but also re-established him as a cultural force. His performance of “Blue Suede Shoes” from this special remains a celebrated moment in rock history, symbolizing the resilience and enduring appeal of both the artist and the music genre he helped define.
