Friday marks 49 years since a cultural American icon took the stage and swept the crowd off its feet for the last time.
In the late ’60s, Elvis Presley enjoyed a career resurgence thanks to a string of hits that included “Suspicious Minds,” “Don’t Cry Daddy” and “In the Ghetto.” The momentum carried into 1970, with Presley releasing other signature hits, including “The Wonder of You,” “Kentucky Rain” and “The Next Step is Love.”
Sadly, the last four years of Presley’s life would be marred by serious health issues, including an addiction to prescription drugs. Presley also had Type 2 diabetes and experienced insomnia and chronic back pain.
The 42-year-old Presley began what would be his final tour on June 17, 1977, in Springfield, Missouri. On this day, 49 years ago, the greatest entertainer of his generation would perform his final concert.
On June 26, 1977, Presley entertained fans one last time at Market Square Arena in Indianapolis, Indiana. As The Commercial Appeal noted, the concert generated a sellout crowd of almost 18,000.
Tragically, Elvis died of a heart attack at his Graceland mansion (in Memphis, Tennessee) on Aug. 16, 1977. Presley’s fiancée, Ginger Aldean, found him unresponsive on his bathroom floor.
Per The Commercial Appeal, police estimated that 50,000 to 100,000 people visited Graceland to pay tribute to Presley.
Elvis Presley’s Career Resurgence Cemented His Legacy
Thursday marked the 58th anniversary of Elvis Presley’s 1968 comeback in music, following a seven-year hiatus.
The legendary ’68 Comeback Special was aired by NBC on Dec. 3, 1968. It showed that the King of Rock and Roll was still at the top of his game, leading to a remarkable career resurgence before the turn of the decade.
Presley’s career revival further strengthened his legacy as one of the all-time great musicians and entertainers. 49 years after his untimely passing, the legend of Elvis Presley lives on.
