Introduction
In late 1968, Elvis Presley made a triumphant return to live performance through his legendary NBC television program, widely known as the ’68 Comeback Special. This pivotal moment reignited his musical brilliance after years devoted to his film career . Among the most electrifying moments was his rendition of “Baby, What You Want Me To Do,” originally a 1959 blues shuffle by Jimmy Reed and recognized as a standard in the genre .
The song surfaced as a highlight in the informal “sit-down” segments of the special—intimate performances on a small square stage surrounded by close fans and backed by his original bandmates such as Scotty Moore and D.J. Fontana . Elvis leaned into raw, stripped-down blues over polished studio gloss, reclaiming the energy and spirit from his rock‑and‑roll and R&B roots . So impassioned was the performance that it was turned into an impromptu jam, extending well beyond a simple rendition .
Over the course of rehearsals and filming, Elvis performed “Baby, What You Want Me To Do” multiple times—at least five times during the sit-down recordings and once during stand-up taping—highlighting his spontaneity and deep resonance with the song .
The Alternate Cut offers audiences an even more unfiltered glimpse into Elvis’s raw charisma. His vocal growl, playful swagger, and magnetic stage presence shine with precision, capturing the urgency and emotional pulse of the live moment .
Rooted in blues tradition and delivered with unvarnished intensity, this performance symbolizes Elvis’s reclamation of his creative soul. It remains one of the most compelling showcases of his ability to channel authenticity and deliver electrifying energy.
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