Elvis Presley, the “King of Rock and Roll,” possessed an unmatched ability to electrify audiences with his captivating stage presence and raw vocal talent. However, beyond the meticulously crafted studio recordings and choreographed performances, there existed a captivating and spontaneous side to Elvis, revealed in his legendary impromptu jam sessions. One such performance, immortalized during his 1968 “Comeback Special,” is his electrifying interpretation of “Baby, What You Want Me To Do.”
Originally written and recorded by Jimmy Reed in 1959, “Baby, What You Want Me To Do” is steeped within the blues tradition. While not featured in the original setlist for the televised 1968 “Comeback Special,” a casual rehearsal showcasing Elvis backed by his band ignited a spontaneous jam session.
Producers captured this raw, unscripted performance, revealing a different dimension to Elvis’ talent. Stripped of the elaborate staging and choreography, the resulting footage showcases Elvis in his natural element – surrounded by musicians and feeding off the raw energy of the moment.
His vocal delivery on this impromptu rendition is a true testament to his blues and rock and roll roots. Gone are the polished crooning vocals often associated with his later career. Instead, Elvis delivers a raw, gritty performance, filled with spontaneous howls and bluesy inflections. His voice is infused with a sense of urgency and unrestrained freedom, matching the driving rhythm section and bluesy guitar licks.
The impromptu recording of “Baby, What You Want Me To Do” during the ’68 Comeback Special served as a powerful reminder of Elvis Presley’s undeniable talent and enduring passion for music. It stripped away the facade of perfectly planned performances, revealing the raw energy and undeniable stage presence at the core of the “King of Rock and Roll.” This impromptu jam session stands as a timeless reminder of Elvis’s ability to captivate audiences, not just through meticulous preparation, but also with his innate talent and unbridled love for performing.