“A live album that captured the essence of Elvis Presley on stage”
Historical Context
In 1974, Elvis Presley was at a crucial point in his career. After his successful return to the stage in 1969 and several sold-out tours across the United States, the King of Rock decided to record a live album in a very special place: his hometown of Memphis, Tennessee. The chosen show was held on March 20, 1974, at the Mid-South Coliseum, a performance that became a highly celebrated musical event.
The album was officially released on July 7, 1974 under the RCA Records label. It not only captured the power of Elvis on stage but also symbolized a heartfelt return to his roots.
Production and Recording
The concert was part of Elvis’s U.S. southern tour in March 1974. The Memphis show was recorded professionally, with production handled by Felton Jarvis, Presley’s longtime producer.
Not the entire setlist made it onto the original vinyl release due to time limitations. However, the original edition still managed to capture the energy of the night, and later reissues would include the full concert.
Original 1974 LP Tracklist
The album contained 15 tracks, blending Presley’s classics with gospel highlights and songs that defined his later years:
- See See Rider
- I Got a Woman / Amen
- Love Me
- Trying to Get to You
- All Shook Up
- Steamroller Blues
- Teddy Bear / Don’t Be Cruel
- Love Me Tender
- Long Tall Sally / Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On / Your Mama Don’t Dance / Flip, Flop and Fly / Jailhouse Rock / Hound Dog (Medley)
- Fever
- Polk Salad Annie
- Why Me Lord (with J.D. Sumner and The Stamps)
- How Great Thou Art
- Help Me
- An American Trilogy
Reception and Awards
The album was warmly received by Elvis’s fans, who considered it proof of his lasting stage power in the 1970s.
A highlight of the performance was “How Great Thou Art,” which earned Elvis the 1975 Grammy Award for Best Inspirational Performance. This was one of only three Grammy Awards Presley ever won, all tied to his gospel recordings.
Reissues and Legacy
Over the years, Elvis Recorded Live On Stage In Memphis has been reissued in multiple formats, especially on CD. Some later editions feature the complete concert, including tracks omitted from the original release.
In 2014, to mark the 40th anniversary, a special edition was released featuring the full Memphis concert along with rehearsal recordings from Richmond and Tulsa.
The album holds a special place in Elvis Presley’s discography—not only for its musical quality but also as a powerful document of his triumphant return to Memphis, the city where it all began.
Conclusion
Elvis Recorded Live On Stage In Memphis (1974) is more than just a live album: it’s living proof of Elvis Presley’s unique connection with his audience and his hometown. The record combines rock and roll standards, tender ballads, and deeply spiritual moments, showcasing the artist’s unmatched versatility. Today, it remains an essential piece of the King’s discography, treasured by fans and collectors worldwide.
Click on the image to buy
Access the Complete Discography of Elvis Presley in the following link of Elvis Radio 24h: https://elvisradio24h.com/tag/discography/ TCB
