FIRST TIME EVER HEARING Elvis Presley - "If I Can Dream" ('68 Comeback) REACTION!!

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[@jayeginn5963]

Elvis was born on January 8, 1935 in Tupelo, Mississippi, in a 2 room shack of a house his dad built with money he borrowed from his boss. That's how dirt poor they were. He was one half of identical twins; the other boy - Jesse Garon - was stillborn. They were so poor, that Jesse Garon was buried in a shoebox in an unmarked grave. At Graceland they have a plaque with his name on it in his memory. Elvis always got along with the black community and learned a lot about music from his friends of color. Also, according to the one drop rule, Elvis would not be considered white, since he has Cherokee ancestors on both the Smith (his mother) and the Presley (his father) sides of the family. His paternal grandfather, Jesse Dunning Presley, was not happy that his two sons, Elvis' father Vernon and his brother Vester, married two sisters, Gladys and Clettes who were known to have Cherokee blood in their family tree. J.D. Presley was quite the racist a-hole, often drunk and a philandering husband to Minnie Mae (they were actually separated long before they finally divorced in 1954) who was always competing with his sons Vester and Vernon and who was known to abuse his kids when drunk. J.D. was publicly against race mixing and was in denial about the Cherokee blood in his own family tree. It was more publicly known that the Smith family had Native blood in their family tree, so when both his sons fell for 2 Smith sisters and Vernon, on top of that, was still a minor at 17 when he eloped with Gladys who was 4 years older than him, Jesse was totally pissed off. As a child, Elvis already had many friends in the black community at the time his family was one of 4 "white" families that lived in the predominantly black neighborhood The Hill, just across from Shake Rag. His childhood friend Sam Bell said that some of the (black) kids in that neighborhood had lighter skin than Elvis (kzbin.info/www/bejne/gqOpdKyEgtuNjc0). One of Elvis' bodyguards once said that he thought it was a miracle Elvis got into Humes High School in Memphis, because it was "lily white". Elvis wanted to be more open about his Native ancestry, but his manager "colonel" Tom Parker (real name Andreas van Kuijk) was against it because he was afraid it might cost Elvis fans (and himself money). They did have Elvis play characters in his movies though where he had Native American blood (Flaming Star, G.I. Blues, Stay Away Joe). Once Elvis had his own (apprentice) job learning to be an electrician, he saved up his money and bought his clothes in the same style that many of his friends of color wore. He was called a (forgive me, just stating facts here) "n-lover" and got beaten up several times too. Later, when he was an established star, he would not perform at places where the members of color of his back-up band/orchestra weren't allowed.

[@michellejackson6679]

So many ppl don't even know Elvis had an identical twin

[@janeperez3750]

Very interesting and in-depth information. Thank you

[@dougieyou]

He was and still is "The King".... enough said.

[@bwana-ma-coo-bah425]

title given to him by white America.

[@dougieyou]

@@bwana-ma-coo-bah425 Hate to disagree but I think it is generally acknowledged by everyone no matter what color it is...

[@bwana-ma-coo-bah425]

@@dougieyou Its okay to disagree. What you have to accept is, black people didn't give Elvis the title. White America did.

[@lechat8533]

Thank you for this beautiful reaction. This is not just a song. This is a prayer and a wake-up call.

[@depper]

Your BeST REACTION YET. Elvis risked his life performing this. Famous people were getting assassinated (MLK, JFK RFK ), and the death threats followed this song until his death. Elvis grew up dirt poor during segregation and the Great Depression. A staunch supporter of the civil rights movement, he was one of the first and most powerful forces to get black artists heard and credited and paid a respectful wage.

[@michele6740]

It was written before Kennedy was killed in June. It was written “If I could Dream” in tribute to MLK. Racists and Representative of Elvis added the Vietnam War Vets, JFK and Robert Kennedy to soften the racial tension. They were diluting it. We don’t have to do that anymore. We can say it was written for MLK - it’s ok. Now, later he may have added people to it when preforming as time went on. Although, he didn’t really ever preform it. And as mentioned didn’t get a lot of radio play either. As you said 60’s for sure but even the 70’s there was A LOT of racism and violence against blacks moving into predominately white areas. It was awful 😢 It was not written for anybody other than MLK when it was actually written (Robert Kennedy was killed after it was written).

[@waynevillette4193]

He didn’t risk his life at all the guy who wrote it did so quite quickly and Elvis sang it that’s all it wasn’t his nod to community’s getting along it was the writers and maybe the Directors look on Elvis life that gave it more meaning it’s a great song sang by the greatest voice but that’s all

[@depper]

@@waynevillette4193 Wrong. Elvis Presley had to deal with death threats from 1956 on. It followed him to his grave. To be famous and alive in the 1960s put them at intense risk to be assassinated if you spoke on issues of black people. Just ask Malcolm, RFK, JFK and Dr Martin Luther King. All proponents of the civil rights movement. Elvis was first persecuted for the way he danced and the fact that he was promoting black music and artists. Parents of that era didn't want their kids playing that music in their homes. It all intensified in the 1960s during the race riots. Elvis felt very connected, being where he grew up and his experience during the Great Depression and Segregation.

[@sopala3952]

@@waynevillette4193guess you didn’t see the director Binders doc about Elvis going against his managers wishes and fighting hard for this song and the writers reason for writing the lyrics knowing how Elvis felt. Nobody risked anything … writer or Elvis ..Elvis would be Elvis to his fans no matter if he sang this or Xmas song his manager wanted.. and the writer got his kudos .they were inspired and touched by the events and the times.

[@waynevillette4193]

@@sopala3952 I’ve seen it quite a few times Elvis sang the song great but he never really knew what was being written yes he sang it against the wishes of Parker who had different ideas but that’s it I think the show is great but people do make a bigger deal about or how the song came about than it was and to be honest I think the one we see on KZbin is great but the released version was the worse version listen to both the released one feels and sounds rushed and very out of breath

[@ppresley9208]

There'll never be another like him ... TCB forever !

[@robindehlinger4698]

Elvis was a person who brought people together.

[@Heartstrings_Skyla]

"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive hate; only love can do that." -Martin L. King, Jr

[@Indy1831]

Elvis changed the world

[@TheSadezoe]

A side note... many of you think he is flailing his right arm... He isn't flailing.. He is conducting his band. Everyone misses that in All his songs... Love my Elvis

[@krazyj1957]

Before Elvis, there was nothing -John Lennon

[@Wildlife_SA.]

Elvis brought me to your channel... He is amazing. Phenomenal voice and talent. He was inducted into 5 Halls of fame. He could sing any genre of music and make the song sound great. He is still loved worldwide and will never be forgotten. More Elv1s please. Nice reaction. 🥇🇿🇦🌍

[@mikesba]

For some background about Elvis, watch “Elvis Presley and the Black Community - that echo will never die”.

[@toodlescae]

Elvis took off like crazy in the 50's in spite of opposition to the kind of Rock & Roll music he sang and the way he moved on stage. Then he spent a couple years in the army. When he got out of the army he started appearing in movies (31 of them). Elvis wanted to be back on the stage doing live concerts so this special was set up. It had been so long since he'd been in front of a live audience that he was nervous. He was always worried that he would be forgotten even back then. This special led to a residency in Vegas doing frequent concerts at the casino plus he was doing tours all over the U.S. Elvis needn't have worried. Peopke flew in from all over the world to see him when he was in Vegas and as soon as a concert date was announced in any state in the country it was sold out, sometimes within 24 hours. Those concerts were sold out until the day he died. His home in Memphis, Graceland, is the 2nd most visited home in the U.S. only because the 1st is the White House. There's a huge candlelight ceremony every year on the anniversary of his death with hundreds of people attending. Elvis was, is and will always be America's first Superstar and The King.

[@KidBklyn]

I'm totally surprised that Elvis never received a Grammy for this song. His feeling, emotion and soul just pour out of him. He could sing anything but his first love of music was Gospel.

[@dwoehrma]

Elvis is the King because he succesfully blended pop, country, rock, soul, blues, gospel, pretty much everything. He melded it all together and brought it to the masses. Modern artists mix styles all the time now. But back then it was unheard of, even blasphemous.

[@tchampagne1494]

I do my part every day to make life a little better. I smile at people and greet them with love and compassion. I find that most people respond in kind.

[@judyzeller3921]

This was written specifically for Elvis after the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. just a few blocks from Elvis's home (Graceland). We had experienced the assassination of Robert Kennedy earlier that year which devastated Elvis, & now King. He wanted something that had meaning to end his '68 special. The words are definitely drawn from MLK's speech on purpose. His red tie was for blood shed by our young men at war, his white suit was a symbol of healing & purity. His background singers said that he actually cried when this was over & he never publicly sang the song again. The song was a triumph. Sad that after all these years, nothing has changed & the words are just as relevant (and sad) as they were then. Thanks for learning about Elvis. You're starting on a very special journey (750 recorded songs). The goat, the icon, the king.

[@michele6740]

MLK was assassinated 4/4/68. Robert Kennedy was not assassinated “earlier that year” Robert Kennedy was assassinated in Jun 1968 after MLK and after this song was written for Elvis in tribute to MLK. Not Robert Kennedy - Robert Kennedy was still alive when it was written. This song was for MLK and the unity for blacks and whites during this time. Other big eventful things happened of course. But the song “If I can dream” all by itself was written in tribute to MLK and the huge Civil Rights Movement.

[@carolhayar3037]

When Steve Binder & Elvis saw the TV news about Kennedy's assassination, the song was written post haste overnight (i believe) just within a couple of days after Kennedy's assassination in time for the special (Binder's words & explanation.)

[@michele6740]

@@carolhayar3037 not have asked Walter Brown to write “If I could Dream” for MLK AND Robert Kennedy …because Robert Kennedy was still alive when it was written. They may have later dedicated a preformace to Robert Kennedy, JFK and Vietnam Vets. Which would be nice on stage when going to sing the song. Although, it was not on his list of songs he preformed and not played on there radio. (Why-racism). Because it was written in tribute to MLK. And Elvis’s team was more than likely trying to lessen the backlash from Elvis singing this song he was told NOT to sing. (Why- racism). And to insinuate that this song was not written for MLK is perpetuating the same racism that originally started them saying just that. Or you can just go by the fact that Robert Kennedy was alive when it was written. How bout that.

[@carolhayar3037]

@@michele6740 Walter Earl Brown was asked by Steve Binder to compose a song along w-his partner who actually backed off from taking any credit -- see Steve Binder's very lengthy, full video of "Gates of Graceland: Secrets of the '68 Special" AND the other interview videos Binder spoke on regarding the special, how it came about & what had to be done to keep Parker awayv(which involved gambling because Parker was a huge gambler) in order for them to accomplish what they planned, which was to not end w-a Christmas song. This song was composed extremely post-haste in a matter of a day or 2 immediately after Kennedy was assassinated

[@JoAnnKlingaman-iu4lm]

Elvis was the most charismatic singer entertainer and humanitarian ever !! No one today can match his brilliance 💕

[@xciteful]

Elvis was a God among men. God bless him for existing. The most amazing live performance in human history.....

[@timcarr6401]

Blasphemy alert.

[@michaellawliss3049]

Facts my man...FACTS! AWESOME AWESOME REACTION! THANK YOU! 🤜🤛 HIT THE ELVIS RABBIT HOLE...YOU WONT REGRET IT!

[@user-yh9lr4nb7m]

This was a tribute to MLK after he was assassinated ❤❤

[@carolhayar3037]

It was also due to the assassination of Robert Kennedy, which Elvis & Steve Binder saw on the TV news, the war, other assassinations, a world in turmoil & composed as a wish for a world of peace & happiness

[@user-dr2sk3wh7i]

Elvis grew up in a mostly Black ghetto. He absorbed both Black and White gospel music as well as Black rhythm and blues and White country. For those who falsely claim he "stole" Black music, it actually was what he grew up with so it was as much his music as anyone's. No skin color involved. He was one of the first, if not The first who used Black back up singers at the height of segregation. You should watch the video Suspicious Minds to see another side of him. Also the song Hurt live in 1977 [unfortunately he was overweight and was very ill, just weeks before he died] but his voice, as always was magnificent1. I also would recommend Reconsider Baby and Tomorrow Never Comes. The documentary Elvis and the Black Community, parts 1 and 2 is a must see. This will sound macabre but if you watch his funeral online you will see the love and respect the fans had for him as 80.000+ people flocked to Memphis just to be there to pay homage to him. He will always be The King!

[@gbbryangad]

He was so fire. Still is 47 years after his passing.

[@user-gz5xt1lj4t]

this is his tribute to Dr. Martin Luther king, who was murdered only 8 miles from his home in Memphis Tenn. He was an advocate and activist for black singers. He grew up in a poor black neighborhood in Tupelo Miss. He went to black church and loved black gospel. This was sung in turbulent times, in 68 their were race riots and separation. He was told not to sing this song by his manager, because they thought he would loose his white followers. you'd also love "In the Ghetto", Vegas 1970. Loved your reaction, hope you will experience all his music he made over 700 recordings. You are a cutie, thanks and be Blessed.

[@mandym4324]

You will also love him singing "In The Ghetto" when he was in concert. Also, "Trying to Get to You" from the 68 Comeback Special. Love your reaction to this!!

[@jarnieri9583]

Nice reaction, this was a tribute to MLK just after his assassination. Keep down the Elvis road. you will have a great time with it. Best-selling artist of all time. Over a billion albums sold in a day of no downloads, you had to actually go and buy the record. The network told him not to sing this song on the tv special because of the racial tension at the time. Elvis said there would be no special with him if the song was not included. The country went crazy for Elvis again and again and again. He was the first Gobal Icon. Young heartthrob teen idol Elvis, rebel Elvis, movie star Elvis, Las Vegas revival showtime Elvis. Check it all out. You will have a blast.

[@carolhayar3037]

It also encompassed the assassination of Robert Kennedy which Steve Binder & Elvis saw on the TV news when it happened & Elvis' general thoughts & feelings about the world in turmoil at that time, which included the other assassinations & Vietnam

[@user-tc2hh7zi9r]

Thanks for Elvis music. You are great. I first saw Elvis when I was 10. He's always been my number one. I miss him so much. I love that man. Sherry

[@user-ix2hi7oj9k]

Welcome aboard Son!

[@johnpaulson5067]

Yes young man you definitely get it...

[@MaryJones-vo5nz]

Beautiful reaction. Thank you for giving him a chance. He was a goid man, he sang this in the height of raging riots and of course his love for Dr. Martin Luther King. He was truly a product of extreme poverty and he grew up in a poor black neighborhood. He loved black gospel. I appreciate this. Be Blessed😍

[@ednahighsmith7268]

Elvis and the black community is the one to watch. Opened a lot of eyes

[@carolyn_sm7182]

Elvis sang this song as a tribute to MLK and RFK who had been assasinated that same year. It was his way of honoring this men. He felt so strongly about this song that he went against his manager, the t.v. station, the sponsors, because they wanted him to end that show with a Christmas song and he refused and stuck to his guns about ending the show with it. He was so strong in his convictions to make the world better for every single person. I hope you continue to read and learn about this wonderful man. There are many documentaries, live music video's, too many to even attempt to list. Elvis and the black community is a good one to start with since it isnt too long. I truly love his live performances because you get to see his personality come through, his humor was fantastic to watch.. He has many gospel songs out there that will give you chills.. they're just beautiful.. enjoy your journey and Elvis fans will be watching along your way..

[@carolhayar3037]

Thanks for the mention of Kennedy -- not many people do or even realize what took place.

[@asherasspirit7727]

Peace, love and understanding❗

[@Jeri_C11]

Beautiful reaction. All he ever wanted was everyone to get along. He worked for civil rights and he admired MLK so that when he was assassinated in Memphis no less where he lived. He was so affected and they wrote this song for him. He always sang with passion and soul. That to me was his. Greatest gift he left us. He only lived to 42 but is beloved to this day. 47 yrs after his death thousands come from around the world to see Graceland and have a candlelight vigil during Elvis week ( when he died). It’s remarkable to see. In 2022, the Blockbuster movie ELVIS SHOWED SOME OF HIS LIFES JOURNEY. HIS Gospel albums won Grammys. He sings them with such conviction, I often thought he could turn a non believer into a believer. It inspired many. Thank you so much for this. “In The Ghetto” is another song to react to because he lived in abject poverty and was of the few who lived in a black neighborhood and played with all black friends. It was the blacks who believed in him and the whites who criticized him when he started to become famous. A documentary called “ Elvis and the Black Community: the Echo never dies part one is one that’s not too long and I’ve seen it played on dozens of reaction channels. 😊😊❤❤❤

[@carolhayar3037]

Let's not overlook what else took place that was the cause of this song being written. Binder & Elvis watched the TV news that Robert Kennedy had just been assassinated; there were other assassinations at that time; & the Vietnam war. Based on what Elvis had expressed to Binder, Brown composed a song expressing a wish for a world of peace & happiness due to a world in turmoil.

[@Jeri_C11]

@@carolhayar3037 You’re absolutely correct. It was the perfect song for those times. 1968 was an unbelievable year. I was only 13 but remembered all that was going on. I was doing a report in school and picked Robert Kennedy. That morning my mom woke me up earlier than usual and told me he had been shot around midnight that night. I remember sitting on the floor and watching the news for an hour or so. He hadn’t passed away yet but was critical. When I went to school, I asked my teacher if I should pick someone new & she said “no, stick with him but update it to the present.” Writing a report about it all really made me understand what had happened & I felt really affected by it. It was such a short time after MLK was assassinated. It really was an awful time. So, I recall at the end of the year, watching Elvis sing that song at the end of the special. I started to cry because he sang it with so much emotion. I was always an Elvis fan. But I really fell in love with the person afterwords. It was devastating on the day he died. I was around 23 then and it was etched in my brain to this day. 🎸🕺🏻😊❤️❤️🙋🏼‍♀️🙋🏼‍♀️

[@georgebuckner6799]

Recently I have seen numerous reactions to the song. The emotions displayed have been incredible. As a country, we need this song more now than ever. Pray for peace, within and afar.

[@carriemichelle322]

I saw Elvis and your honest genuine reaction....I subbed! Elvis was born into poverty. He was a twin, who died at birth. They were so poor, he was buried in a shoebox in an unmarked grave. The family was only 1 of 4 white families living in a predominantly black neighborhood. He was brought up in the church and taught to respect everyone! His neighbors helped his family. Kindness and soul has no color! This song was sang just after the assassination of MLK and Kennedy. It was on NBC primetime. It was very controversial because it was awful times of segregation. Elvis didn't care....❤ Please react to In the Ghetto and 1970 Live in Vegas Suspicious Minds. Thank you 😊

[@mattleppard1964]

The comeback tour gigs were among his best live performances I always felt ❤

[@sandrahernandez569]

Beautiful reaction from a young person ❤

[@bobfogg4087]

Thank you for your reaction. I look forward to seeing you do more Elvis reactions. 👍👍

[@sopala3952]

You got it…the magic is in his voice and emotion he emotes so beautifully. As some writer said “ he is the greatest interpreter of the American songbook “. And yummy as hell to boot ❤️

[@TheSpitmitt]

Thanks for your great review of this talented man,

[@debbiefoxx7404]

Your best reaction yet. You really listen to lyrics and let them and the music touch you. ❤In the Ghetto was beautiful as well.

[@suzannezethner8180]

This song was written about MLK and the Dream speech and assassination. ❤❤❤❤ We need this in our world 🌎 today 😢❤

[@dgator3599]

There's only 1 Elvis!!

[@christinawoolley6206]

Gets me every time I see this! Thank you for your reaction!😽🎶

[@annasaylor3566]

I agree with you 💯 percent we should be and need to be as one. ❤

[@Sile_Fitness.]

Elvis 🔥

[@MDreeezy]

🔥🙌🏽💪🏽

[@donnaqueen8766]

Watch ELVIS AND THE BLACK COMMUNITY! You will be shocked how he was treated but he didn't let that stop him!!! Thank you for what you do!!❤❤❤

[@luckylisa5496]

You get it young man! This song is just as relevant today as it was in 1968. He recorded this song following the assassination of MLK. Sadly, we haven't really fixed many of the things and problems he's trying to convey through this song. And his voice! Glad you can appreciate this song and it's deeper meaning

[@marion_R]

Excellent reaction!💚☀️ It's not that easy to find a song of him, that I don't like. You'll have lots of fun on the Elvis journey! Thank you!

[@JackS-cu5kf]

You need to see him move . Suspicious minds live...or trying to get to you from the 68 comeback special.

[@thejoketrader]

Only one Elvis

[@jacqualynjohnson6203]

After watching this reaction, maybe there is hope for the younger generation.

[@erlindamartinez8521]

Amazing reaction. Feel the passion snd emotion of his voice. The KING please try American Trilogy , Bridge over troubled water. 💕💕💕💕

[@michaelphipps8647]

Great Reaction!

[@colleenluiz3678]

You nailed it

[@mamabear9325]

Well done, young man. The more young people who hear this song, the more the message spreads. Even a tiny dent is a dent where humanity is concerned. ty ❤

[@victoriarios3726]

Elvis is a phenomenal performer so if you react to more Elvis don't blink or look away cause you'll miss something. Do not assume he is singing about his life just listen, look and enjoy. The more you learn about Elvis you will find out that as amazing as he is onstage he's an even greater human being offstage. He had his flaws but was a very generous and humble man. I've been loving Elvis for decades and I'm still learning and discovering new songs from him. I heard 2 songs for the first time yesterday and they were so great that I played them over and over. Thank you for this reaction. WE❤U ELVIS!!!

[@delilahmorrow4606]

❤❤ Elvis

[@user-to8vq4qy9w]

Great reaction this was Elvis's best performance ever like you said he put so much emotion and passion into it you got the message loud and clear it is definitely a song which gives you the chills your views were spot Elvis is the Goat 🐐 his manager didn't want him to do it but Elvis felt it needed to be sung fantastic thank you 🎉

[@colleentrygg7376]

This song has always given me chills and brings a tear to my eye, so much passion and so much hope for a world we would all love to live in but sadly seems more of a dream today than when it was written.

[@emerald1805]

Elvis requested a special song ending his Christmas Special on tv in 1968, instead of a regular Christmas carol. This song was written to honor the MLK “I have a dream” speech - and Robert Kennedy who was running for President. Both were assassinated that year. Elvis grew up during the Great Depression in very poor circumstances. He had just as many black friends as white ones. I highly recommend a video “Elvis & the Black Community” parts 1 & 2. Also: “Baz Luhrman Interview’s Elvis’ childhood friend Sam Bell”. I saw Elvis LIVE in Concert, and he was the best I’ve ever seen- and I saw everybody!

[@jojotenery]

Such a powerful song, both in its execution and its message. It reflects the turmoil and hope that so many of us felt, with the newscasts of the Viet Nam war, the protests against the war, the Russian and American space missions, the changes in societal norms…as a pre-teen, I had no idea what to expect for the future. But, thus far, mine’s been a good life!

[@user-wt9iq7ky1v]

Your reaction was so good and very up front. You pointed out Elvis’ amazing voice and the words of this song and how they need to be heard again especially right now. Keep up the good work! I just subscribed and look forward to seeing many more of your reactions

[@cherylsemones6458]

Subbed for more Elvis! Please keep diving into Elvis. Not only music, also his documentaries. Elvis and the black community It'll give you an understanding of how he started and what he went through in the beginning. I guarantee you will gain much respect, understanding and love for Elvis!

[@user-wb2zw5vh7p]

Thanks for this great reaction welcome to the Elvis Family.

[@jennyburns787]

Very thoughtful reaction - thank you for sharing. Elvis ❤ beautiful. This performance was the finale for his 1968 special, he expressed the times, tribute to MLK and recent loss of Bobby Kennedy forefront when this was shown.

[@steezbekillin]

Banger🔥🫡

[@lisalott4236]

Well said, young man.

[@trishriley9681]

❤

[@stephenpresley5772]

Great song and reaction

[@user-wb2zw5vh7p]

You need to here his You''ve lost that loving feeling.

[@willow0828]

Everything in this performance has a purpose. The song itself was written by Earl Brown, inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King’s speech I Have a Dream. The song was written with Elvis in mind & it’s a tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Mr. Brown was aware of Elvis love for Dr. King. He also knew that Elvis was devastated by the news of Dr. King’s assassination (less than 9 miles from Graceland, Elvis‘s home). The white suit was also worn to accompany the song’s dream for better days. At the time, the conflict in Vietnam was heart wrenching. In remembrance, of the lives lost during the Vietnam war. The burgundy colored scarf Elvis wore around his neck was for them.

[@carolhayar3037]

This song encompassed the assassination of Robert Kennedy which Elvis & Steve Binder saw on the TV news. After hours of discussion, Binder asked Walter Earl Brown to compose a song based on the thoughts & feelings that Elvis expressed during those discussions. Brown's composition was for the wish of a world of peace & harmony.

[@kimberlystankiewicz7961]

This song was especially written for Elvis. For the special. It's about the assassinations of Martin Luther King and Robert F Kennedy assassinations and all the blood that was shed from the Vietnam War. I'm a new subscriber. I suggest Elvis and the black community and Elvis A Generous Heart. You will get what Elvis is about and what he went through.

[@carolhayar3037]

Thanks for mentioning Kennedy & Vietnam.

[@marnernordendal3927]

Very good song ❤❤

[@eddieb7156]

Elvis was the coolest dude of his time, his swag was like none other, start from 1956 The Ed Sullivan Show n work your way to 1977 n you'll see y Elvis is the king of rock n roll

[@vickylong3229]

I really enjoyed your comments on this song and how Elvis sang it. The white suit represented peace as we were at war, and the red scarf represented the blood that had been spilled. Martin Luther King, Robert Kennedy and the soldiers that had died during the war. Elvis wanted to help bring healing. Jerry Schilling who worked for Elvis, said Elvis told him that he had donated to MLK and was trying to see him, but Elvis was in California making a movie when MLK was assinated in Memphis. Then Robert Kennedy was assinated right after he started making this '68 Comeback. Elvis just wanted to bring some sort of peace to the world. This song was written from a part of MLK's speech and after Elvis was done singing, if you notice, he is short of breath when he says, "Thank you and good night," Elvis actually fell down and almost passed out. It was such an emotional song to him. Great reaction. ❤

[@lorisutton5267]

Thanks for the great reaction this was written just for Elvis to express his emotions on the assassination of,

[@marnernordendal3927]

Everyone can make the world better

[@Will-nn3pb]

Theres a reason Elvis was king He had it all Good lucks Raw talent Kind and compassionate (he actually bought his cook a house) Style Confidence Humour He started the road to Rock and Roll

[@bwana-ma-coo-bah425]

and what is that reason.

[@Coolrockndad]

React to "Trying To Get To You" by Elvis from his "68 Comeback Special". ....... Then you will know why all the chicks went crazy over him.

[@RockinMamaT]

Suspicious minds is a must my friend. Elvis had deep connections to the black community and he sang this for MLK as a tribute. Suspicious minds is a banger. Please check out April Wine just between you and me please 🙏 Peace out ✌️ ☮️

[@carolhayar3037]

This also encompassed the assassination of Robert Kennedy after Elvis & Steve Binder saw it on the TV news. Regarding "Suspicious Minds" you should give the link -- there is more than one version & as a young person just learning about Elvis, he can't be expected to know that (1) there is more than one version to every song that Elvis did (2) more than one live performance of his songs that he did on stage -- Suspicious Minds have 2 in Vegas 1970 & one in Hawaii 1973.

[@PishProductions1]

Great reaction. Loved your honesty and it is amazing to hear that you get it. Keep going

[@danieljohnson5775]

As long as we can dream as long as we can breath as long as we can walk we have the ability to overcome the rain and dark clouds in the world

[@michellejackson6679]

You look around the same age as my youngest son.. early 20's.. I'm glad you are reacting to Elvis and hopefully learning it's not just hype.. Elvis is the King..end of story.. This mans voice was incredible.. and he could sing every genre, Rock, Country, Gospel....he just had it all.. the voice, the looks, and the stage presence that no one till this day can equal..I'm old..this man died when I was 10 and I'll never forget it because my Mother lost her mind.. She grew up in the 50's/ 60's.. but I listen to him today and he's still the best

[@marnernordendal3927]

Love his voice 🙏🙏🙏

[@colmflaherty3963]

You would really LOVE Elvis if you got to know him. Even without his music. And that's saying something. As to what you were talking about. Yes there is a much better world ahead Here on Earth. I'm sure you've heard of ''the kingdom come thy will be done'' notice the next bit ''On earth as it is in heaven.

[@PrettyFixedStars]

Love Me Tender Live! Women were lining up to kiss him!💋💋💋

[@carolhayar3037]

(new sub) SOME BACKGROUND INFO: As per the producer-director of the '68 special -- Steve Binder -- Elvis, Binder & others were together in the studio when they heard noise coming from the TV in the next room; it was the TV news broadcast that Robert Kennedy had just been assassinated. Binder, Elvis, et al sat up until about 4 a.m. talking about the turmoil in the world at that time w-Elvis expressing his thoughts & feelings. Binder asked songwriter Walter Earl Brown to compose a song based on those discussions. The song is notable for its similarities to Martin Luther King’s wish for a world of peace and harmony. The red tie was for the blood shed in Vietnam. You can see the video "Gates of Graceland: Secrets of the '68 Special" for the entire story of the '68 special, + all the other Steve Binder video interviews regarding the culmination of the song & the entire making of the special. A little story that producer-director of the '68 special Steve Binder related which took place in the dressing room regarding the '68 special right before Elvis was due to go on: Elvis was extremely nervous and he told Binder that he didn't know any of the songs, he forgot all the words, & wasn't going out there, & Binder said, "I don't care if you walk out, just say hello & then walk off, but you ARE going out." And out he came.Binder (92), was the most upstanding, ethical people in the business. Unfortunately, things have not improved all these many yrs. later, it almost seems as tho' things are worse now in many ways.

[@marnernordendal3927]

He did sing from his ha❤

[@wallflowerj6013]

Tyvm. Saw Elvis. Subbed

[@blockklocker]

Thank you for the wonderful review. You have a unique place to share your beautiful message of peace and love. Well said and you make a beautiful difference in the world! Words have power that travels far❣️Blessing to you young man.

[@carladicarlo3255]

I said it before but I’m impressed how much vintage music knowledge a young guy like you is soaking up. You sound wise beyond your years. For me learning all about Motown from my parents started my music obsession. This Elvis song is special though. Sad it’s still relevant 56 years later. Glad you did it.

[@user-dr2sk3wh7i]

Also you should watch the 2022 movie "ELVIS" here on youtube.

[@hlhappy2793]

There will never be a talent like Elvis. Love him. Listen to American Trilogy live in Hawai. Unreal. You got a new subscriber. Hi from the UK xx

[@bernardk5189]

Man when I saw this song was gonna be your first Elvis reaction. I jumped on it. First it being a great Elvis song but knowing how you appreciate something great. Knowing how you feel and understand the deep essence of things. I knew this would blow you away. Keep doing what you're doing.

[@pennyyoung3166]

You need to watch Elvis and the black community the echo will never die and you will learn a lot about him

[@jeanineking6327]

elvis has a song moody blue

[@christianwettendorff4938]

Always great reactions ;-) Elvis is many things though. This one is really great. When you eventually move into the Elvis catalogue though, be aware that he has 3 main phases. 1. The Rock'n'Roll Singer (Jailhouse Rock and Heartbreak Hotel, +++) 2. The Actor / The Movie Years (Trouble and Viva Las Vegas, +++) and in-between 2 and 3 = The 68 Comeback + the world's first satellite tv live concert Aloha From Hawaii (1973) 3. The Las Vegas Years (Are you lonesome tonight and In The Ghetto, +++)

[@mzblue7214]

Check out Elvis iwith his LIVE concerts in Vegas! 😍🥰