Introduction
Elvis Presley’s 1968 rendition of “Baby, What You Want Me To Do” stands as a pivotal moment in his career, emblematic of his return to musical roots and live performance after a seven-year hiatus dominated by Hollywood films . Originally penned and recorded by blues artist Jimmy Reed in 1959, the song’s simple yet potent structure provided a canvas for Elvis to showcase his raw vocal prowess and deep connection to blues and rock ‘n’ roll traditions .
During the ’68 Comeback Special, Elvis opted for an intimate “sit-down” session, surrounded by original bandmates Scotty Moore and D.J. Fontana, eschewing the polished orchestrations of his recent recordings . This stripped-down approach allowed for a more spontaneous and emotionally charged performance, with Elvis’s vocals exuding a soulful intensity that harkened back to his early days .
The alternate cut of “Baby, What You Want Me To Do” captures this electrifying atmosphere, highlighting Elvis’s improvisational skills and his ability to connect viscerally with the audience . The performance not only reaffirmed his status as a dynamic live performer but also symbolized a reclamation of his artistic identity, bridging his past influences with a renewed creative vigor .
This rendition remains a testament to Elvis Presley’s enduring talent and his profound impact on music history, illustrating how a return to one’s roots can lead to a powerful artistic resurgence .