Introduction

Elvis Presley’s ’68 Comeback Special is an iconic moment in music history, and at the heart of it lies a mesmerizing performance – “Trouble/Guitar Man (Opening).” In this article, we dive into the electric opening of this legendary special, exploring the song’s significance, the artist behind it, and the magic of that unforgettable night.

Did You Know?

The Comeback Heard ‘Round the World

The ’68 Comeback Special marked a pivotal moment in Elvis Presley’s career. After a period of Hollywood films, he returned to the stage in a big way. “Trouble/Guitar Man (Opening)” was a high-energy medley that set the tone for the entire show. Elvis’s charisma and raw talent were on full display, reminding the world why he was the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.

A Fusion of Rock and Blues

“Trouble/Guitar Man” seamlessly blends rock ‘n’ roll and blues influences, showcasing Elvis’s musical versatility. The opening riff, played by guitarist Scotty Moore, set the stage for a blistering performance. Elvis’s electrifying vocals and stage presence ignited the crowd, making it an unforgettable experience.

A Memorable Comeback

Elvis’s ’68 Comeback Special was a massive success, both critically and commercially. It reignited his career, leading to a series of iconic Las Vegas residencies and live performances. The special not only marked his return to live shows but also solidified his status as a cultural icon.

A Timeless Performance

“Trouble/Guitar Man (Opening)” remains a testament to Elvis’s enduring appeal. The video of this performance continues to captivate audiences, serving as a timeless reminder of the King’s talent and charisma.

Video

Lyric

If you’re looking for trouble
You came to the right place
If you’re looking for trouble
Just look right in my face

I was born standing up
And talking back
My daddy was a green-eyed mountain jack
Because I’m evil, my middle name is misery
Well I’m evil, so don’t you mess around with me

I’ve never looked for trouble
But I’ve never ran
I don’t take no orders
From no kind of man

I’m only made out
Of flesh, blood and bone
But if you’re gonna start a rumble
Don’t you try it on alone

Because I’m evil, my middle name is misery
Well I’m evil, so don’t you mess around with me
I’m evil, evil, evil, as can be
I’m evil, evil, evil, as can be

So don’t mess around don’t mess around don’t mess around with me
I’m evil, I’m evil, evil, evil
So don’t mess around, don’t mess around with me
I’m evil, I tell you I’m evil
So don’t mess around with me
Yeah!

Well, I quit my job down at the car wash
Left my mama a goodbye note
By sundown I’d left Kingston
With my guitar under my coat
I hitchhiked all the way down to Memphis
Got a room at the YMCA
For the next three weeks I went huntin’ them nights
Just lookin’ for a place to play
Well, I thought my pickin’ would set ’em on fire
But nobody wanted to hire a guitar man

Well, I nearly ’bout starved to death down in Memphis
I run outta money and luck
So I bought me a ride down to Macon, Georgia
On a overloaded poultry truck
I thumbed on down to Panama City
Started pickin’ out some o’ them all night bars
Hopin’ I could make myself a dollar
Makin’ music on my guitar
I got the same old story at them all night piers
There ain’t no room around here for a guitar man
We don’t need a guitar man, son

So I slept in the hobo jungles
Roamed a thousand miles of track
Till I found myself in Mobile Alabama
At a club they call Big Jack’s
A little four-piece band was jammin’
So I took my guitar and I sat in
I showed ’em what a band would sound like
With a swingin’ little guitar man
Show ’em, son

If you ever take a trip down to the ocean
Find yourself down around Mobile
Make it on out to a club called Jack’s
If you got a little time to kill
Just follow that crowd of people
You’ll wind up out on his dance floor
Diggin’ the finest little five-piece group
Up and down the Gulf of Mexico
Guess who’s leadin’ that five-piece band
Well, wouldn’t ya know, it’s that swingin’ little guitar man