The ’68 Comeback Special was, in my opinion, the finest musical performance of his career
“Baby What Do You Want Me to Do” is a blues song that was first recorded by Jimmy Reed in 1959. Elvis Presley covered the song during his legendary 1968 Comeback Special, and an expanded version of the performance was included on the album “Elvis: NBC TV Special.”
The expanded version of “Baby What Do You Want Me to Do” captures the raw energy and intensity of Elvis’ performance, which was a departure from the polished pop style he had become known for in the years leading up to the special. The song begins with a driving guitar riff before Elvis’ vocals come in, full of attitude and swagger. The band backs him up with a tight, rhythmic groove that emphasizes the song’s bluesy feel.
Throughout the performance, Elvis’ vocals are gritty and soulful, with his trademark growl adding an extra layer of intensity to the lyrics. The expanded version of the song includes a longer instrumental break, with Elvis and the band trading solos and building to a frenzied climax that highlights their skills as musicians.
Elvis’ 1968 Comeback Special was a pivotal moment in his career, and his rendition of “Baby What Do You Want Me to Do” was a key part of the show’s success. The song is a classic example of Elvis’ versatility as a performer, and this expanded version of the performance is a testament to his enduring legacy as a cultural icon.