Indie Memphis 2009

Elvis® led the rock 'n' roll revolution in music and pop culture in the 1950s. Then in the 1960s he concentrated mainly on his movie career. By 1968, it had been more than seven years since he had appeared on stage in front of a live audience. In his first television special, clad in his now-iconic black leather suit, Elvis performs classic hits both alone and, in sequences generally regarded as the forerunner of today's popular "unplugged" concept, with friends and the original members of his band. The concert also includes splashy production numbers and the giant red "Elvis" letters.

Presented by Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. and co-presented by the Levitt Shell and the Memphis Flyer, this free screening of the "Elvis: '68 Special" takes place at the site where Elvis first gained public attention by stealing the show from headliner Slim Whitman with his performance of "That's All Right." Many music historians call that night at Overton Park in 1954 the world's first rock 'n' roll concert.

Usually referred to as the “‘68 Special,” the actual name of the program was “Elvis.” Taped in June of 1968 at NBC’s Burbank studios, it first aired December 3 on NBC and generated the network’s biggest ratings victory of the year and the season’s top-rated show. It stands today as one of the great moments in rock music history and as a milestone in Elvis’ career. After this triumph, Presley poured renewed creative vigor into his recording work, wrapped up his movie obligations and returned full-time to the concert stage.

©EPE, Reg. U.S. Pat. & Tm. Off.