“The album that made Elvis a global pioneer, reaching millions of viewers live and cementing his legacy as the King of Rock”
Elvis Presley and the LP “Aloha from Hawaii Via Satellite” (1973)
In January 1973, Elvis Presley headlined one of the most important milestones in popular music: the first concert broadcast live worldwide via satellite. From the Honolulu International Center (now Neal S. Blaisdell Center) in Hawaii, Elvis delivered an unforgettable show that was later released as an LP under the title “Aloha from Hawaii Via Satellite.”
The event was not only an artistic triumph but also an unprecedented technological achievement, projecting Elvis to an estimated audience of over one billion people around the globe.
Historical Context
The concert was produced by the legendary Colonel Tom Parker and broadcast in the early hours of January 14, 1973 (Hawaiian local time). It was designed as a charity event in support of the Cancer Fund of Hawaii, reinforcing Elvis’ philanthropic image at the height of his career.
The broadcast reached countries across Asia and Europe, and months later it was aired in the United States in a special edited version. The success was immediate and marked a turning point in the music and entertainment industry.
Album Recording
- Venue: Honolulu International Center, Honolulu, Hawaii.
- Date: January 14, 1973.
- Label: RCA Victor.
- Release: February 1973 (U.S.).
The album was issued as a double LP, featuring much of the concert’s repertoire, with arrangements by the TCB Band and the Joe Guercio Orchestra.
Highlighted Tracklist
The LP’s repertoire included Elvis classics alongside powerful covers that captivated the audience:
- “See See Rider”
- “Burning Love”
- “Something” (George Harrison cover)
- “You Gave Me a Mountain”
- “Steamroller Blues”
- “An American Trilogy”
- “Suspicious Minds”
- “Can’t Help Falling in Love”
The album captured the raw intensity of Elvis’ live performance, showcasing his vocal power and passion through a setlist that blended rock, ballads, gospel, and country.
Commercial Success
- In the United States, the LP reached #1 on the Billboard 200, becoming one of the best-selling albums of Elvis’ career.
- In the United Kingdom, it climbed to #11.
- It was certified 5× Platinum by the RIAA, confirming its status as one of his most successful releases of the 1970s.
Impact and Legacy
- It was the first global concert broadcast via satellite, placing Elvis at the forefront of both music and technology.
- Represented a high point of his 1970s career.
- Proved his ability to reinvent himself as a global superstar capable of staging massive international events.
- The LP remains a historic document, capturing Elvis at a peak artistic moment.
With “Aloha from Hawaii Via Satellite,” Elvis Presley not only delivered a legendary concert but also became a true pioneer of global entertainment. The LP stands as one of the most significant recordings in his discography, a testament to his stage power and his timeless connection with millions of fans worldwide.
Access the Complete Discography of Elvis Presley in the following link of Elvis Radio 24h https://elvisradio24h.com/tag/discography/ TCB
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