I know it's probably been discussed before but, to this day, I feel so frustrated that Elvis even toured in 1977 (also '75, and '76).

 

He was in such poor health I alway wonder why his large entourage didn't step in and say enough is enough.

 

I think if Elvis had taken a break of 18 months to 2 years at this time he would still be alive today.

He certainly couldn't have been touring for any financial reasons. All I can think is that he believed that touring and performing was what he was meant to do to and he didn't seem to see any alternative.

 

I always find it heartbreaking watching footage of Elvis from the period 1976-1977 but vocally his performances are astonishing especially tracks such as "Unchained Melody" and "How Great Thou Art"

 

Sorry for going off on one!!

No need to apologise, Ian. I agree wholeheartedly with you! There was only one place Elvis should have been, especially in ’77, and that was a hospital bed or rehab centre dealing with his problems. Actually, strangely enough, when Elvis died, his finances weren’t very healthy, due, to a large extent on his generosity, and also, the Colonel used to take a large share of the profits. I honestly believe that Elvis needed a challenge in his life, for instance an overseas tour to rejuvenate him, but we all know, the Colonel always wanted more and, as has been found out since, he was unable to travel outside the US. I just wish that Elvis had stood up to him, as he did for the Comeback show of ’68. ( The Colonel wanted a Christmas show, but Elvis, persuaded by Steve Binder overruled him and the resulting show was amazing for Elvis). I blame the Colonel for the constant rounds of tours (he, himself had huge gambling debts to pay off), but surely he knew, that Elvis’ health was suffering and, a good manager would want his boy to be at the top of his game for as many years to come, as possible. Unfortunately, as well, Elvis was the only person who could have stopped all the medication, but by that time, I believe, he was physically and mentally unable to do so and there weren’t the rehab centres around that there are today. Even if there were, only he could agree to seek help. It really is so sad. I wish he could have got the help he so desperately needed and, just maybe, he would still be around today. :)

 

As for the footage of the late shows, especially from ’77, I too, find it hard to watch, yet his voice was still amazing. The songs you mention are fantastic examples, so too, is My Way from ’77. As much as I loved this song from Aloha, the power and passion in his voice from one of his last shows, sends tingles down my spine and when you consider how ill he was at the time, it shows how truly great a performer he was. :wub: