Introduction
The King Revived: Elvis Unleashes the Blues in “Baby, What You Want Me To Do” (’68 Comeback Special)
Elvis Presley’s 1968 television special, simply titled “Elvis,” wasn’t just a show; it was a resurrection. After several years of movie soundtracks and commercially-driven music, Elvis returned to his roots, stripping things down for a raw and unforgettable performance. A cornerstone of this legendary night is “Baby, What You Want Me To Do,” a bluesy reimagining that showcased the King’s undeniable musicality and reignited his passion for rock and roll.
The original “Baby, What You Want Me To Do” wasn’t an Elvis original. Released in 1959, the song was written and recorded by blues legend Jimmy Reed. It’s a classic slow-burning blues number, driven by a simple yet captivating guitar riff and Reed’s signature harmonica. The lyrics express a playful frustration with a lover, pleading, “Baby, what you want me to do?”
For the ’68 Comeback Special, Elvis took “Baby, What You Want Me To Do” and transformed it. Gone were the polished orchestrations of his recent recordings. Instead, he opted for a more intimate setting, surrounded by his original bandmates Scotty Moore (guitar) and D.J. Fontana (drums). This stripped-down approach allowed the song’s raw blues energy to shine through.
Scotty Moore lays down a hypnotic guitar line, weaving in and out of the melody, while D.J. Fontana keeps the beat steady and driving. Elvis, however, steals the show. His vocals are a revelation – a world away from the overly produced crooning of his Hollywood years. He channels the blues spirit with a deep, soulful growl, injecting the song with a newfound intensity.
The performance is electrifying. Elvis, free from the constraints of staged routines, lets loose. He sways and shimmies, his trademark hip gyrations returning with a renewed energy. There’s a sense of joy and passion that’s palpable, a reminder of the young Elvis who captivated audiences with his raw talent.
“Baby, What You Want Me To Do” from the ’68 Comeback Special is more than just a song; it’s a statement. It’s Elvis reclaiming his musical identity, reminding the world of his roots in blues and rock and roll. It’s a testament to the transformative power of returning to one’s core sound and the enduring passion that made Elvis Presley a legend. This electrifying performance marked a turning point, paving the way for a more creatively fulfilling period in his later career.