Elvis Presley’s premature passing on August 16, 1977 marked the conclusion of an era in rock and roll music as it was universally recognized. The decline of one of history’s most exceptional performers occurred at the age of 42 due to years of alcohol and prescription drug abuse. Nevertheless, a couple of months before his demise, Elvis Presley graced the stage for his final remarkable performance, which was documented on film.
In spite of what we now understand about his extensive health challenges and battles with addiction, The King delivered a rendition of ‘Are You Lonesome Tonight’ that has become a historical moment.
Elvis introduced the song to the audience and initiated what would be the ultimate recorded performance of his career. Strumming his guitar, The King’s distinctive voice echoed the immortal opening line: “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” amidst the crowd’s cheers that almost drowned out his vocals. Although the star appeared more swollen than his youthful self, and while his physique might have been teetering on the edge, his voice remained as robust as ever.
As the song’s spoken part approached, Elvis began to falter and lose track of his lyrics, eliciting laughter from the audience due to his forgetfulness. Despite appearing uncomfortable and visibly perspiring, the moment he resumed singing, the words flowed naturally, concluding the performance with remarkable vocal prowess. The conclusion of the song marked the end of an era – a mere 56 days later, Elvis Presley would meet his demise.
Watch Elvis Presley’s last recorded performance and Let’s sing with him
Lyric
Are you lonesome tonight?
Do you miss me tonight?
Are you sorry we drifted apart?
Does your memory stray to a bright summer day
When I kissed you and called you sweetheart?
Do the chairs in your parlor seem empty and bare?
Do you gaze at your doorstep and picture me there?
Is your heart filled with pain, shall I come back again?
Tell me dear, are you lonesome tonight?
I wonder if you’re lonesome tonight
You know someone said that the world’s a stage and each of us must play a part
Fate had me playing in love with you as my sweetheart
Act one was where we met
I loved you at first glance
You read your lines so cleverly and never missed a cue
Then came act two, you seemed to change, you acted strange
And why I’ve never known
Honey, you lied when you said you loved me
And I had no cause to doubt you
But I’d rather go on hearing your lies
Than to go on living without you
Now the stage is bare and I’m standing there
With emptiness all around
And if you won’t come back to me
Then they can bring the curtain down
Is your heart filled with pain
Shall I come back again?
Tell me dear, are you lonesome tonight?