The Lasting Impact: A Journey Through the 1977 Elvis Concerts at Rapides Parish Coliseum

Elvis Presley’s 1977 Concerts: A Reflection on Music History and Legacy

The Excitement of Seeing Elvis Live

In March of 1977, Elvis Presley performed live at the Rapides Parish Coliseum in Alexandria. For Brad Smith, who was 17 years old and a senior in high school at the time, this was an unforgettable experience. “I got to see Elvis Presley. That was the first concert I ever went to,” he recalls. The ticket price of $15 was substantial for a teenager without a job, but Smith managed to earn the money somehow.

Elvis’ Last Concerts

Elvis performed two shows in Alexandria, with the first night selling out in just 30 minutes. Andrew Godfrey, a former employee of Town Talk, attended the second night concert and recalls Elvis sounding great. He also remembers a moment when Elvis had to stop singing and have one of his backup singers take over while he rested. The crowd was enthusiastic throughout the concert, demonstrating their enduring love and appreciation for the King of Rock and Roll.

A Retrospective Look at Elvis’ Early Performances

For Fay Day, an Elvis fan who had seen him perform in Las Vegas and Baton Rouge, the concerts at the Rapides Parish Coliseum were special. Day’s father owned Jimmie Thompson’s Arena, where Elvis performed as part of the Louisiana Hayride in 1955. At that time, Elvis was not yet popular, and the admission for the show was just $1 for adults and $0.50 for children. Day’s mother, Nean Thompson, sold snow cones at the arena and even had the chance to interact with Elvis. Although Day didn’t pay much attention to him during that early performance, she eventually became a devoted fan, believing that he was the best there would ever be.

An Electric Atmosphere and Lasting Impact

The excitement surrounding Elvis’ concerts at the Rapides Parish Coliseum was palpable, with Brad Smith reminiscing about the backed-up traffic leading to the venue. The moment when the lights went out, and Elvis took the stage was nothing short of extraordinary for Smith. Elvis performed a range of songs, including “C.C. Rider” and “Blue Suede Shoes,” which left a lasting impression on those in attendance. In The Town Talk, a review by Elizabeth Roberts lambasted Elvis, causing some disappointment among fans. However, Smith emphasizes that it was Elvis Presley, and simply witnessing his presence on stage was worth the price of admission.

Elvis’ Health and Last Concert in Baton Rouge

Elvis was scheduled to perform in Baton Rouge on April 1, 1977, but canceled the show due to health reasons. He was flown to Baptist Hospital in Memphis, where he remained until April 6. He made up for the missed concert in Baton Rouge on May 31. Unfortunately, just 139 days after his performances in Alexandria, Elvis passed away on August 16, 1977. The news of his death shocked and saddened his fans, including Brad Smith, who was at work when he received the devastating call.

An Unforgettable Experience

For those who had the privilege of attending an Elvis concert, the experience remains unparalleled. Brad Smith reflects on how no other concert he has seen since has lived up to that night he witnessed the King of Rock and Roll on stage. The influence and impact of Elvis’ performances are undeniable, with his legacy continuing to shape the world of music.

The Enduring Legacy of Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley’s concerts in 1977 at the Rapides Parish Coliseum mark a significant chapter in music history. From his early performances at the Louisiana Hayride to his final concerts, Elvis captivated audiences with his talent, charisma, and unmistakable voice. His influence on popular culture and the rock and roll genre cannot be overstated. Even decades after his passing, Elvis’ music continues to be celebrated and appreciated by fans worldwide.

Editorial: The Immortality of Iconic Performances

Elvis Presley, with his boundless talent and larger-than-life persona, became an iconic figure in the music industry. His concerts were electrifying events that left a lasting impact on all those lucky enough to witness them. In an era before social media and instant gratification, Elvis had the power to unite and captivate audiences like no other. His ability to effortlessly command a stage and bewitch fans with his voice and stage presence set him apart from his contemporaries.

Elvis’ enduring legacy speaks to the transcendent power of music. His music and performances continue to inspire generations, and his influence can be seen in countless artists who have followed in his footsteps. Elvis’ unique fusion of rock and roll, country, and rhythm and blues allowed him to create a sound that resonated with people from all walks of life. His performances were so much more than just concerts—they were cultural phenomena that pushed boundaries and helped shape the music industry as we know it today.

Advice for Concert-Goers

Attending a concert by a beloved artist is a special experience that should be cherished. In the case of legendary performers like Elvis Presley, who are no longer with us, the opportunity to see them live is unfortunately no longer possible. However, there are countless talented artists performing today who can provide unforgettable live experiences.

When attending a concert, it’s important to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Allow yourself to be captivated by the artist’s performance and connect with the music on a deeper level. Put away your phone and live in the moment. The energy and atmosphere of a live concert are incomparable, and by being fully present, you can create lasting memories that will stay with you long after the final notes have faded away.

Supporting live music is crucial for both artists and fans. By attending concerts, we can show our appreciation for the artists’ hard work and dedication. Live performances offer a unique opportunity to witness the creativity and talent of musicians in real-time, which is an enriching and rewarding experience.

While we may never have the chance to see Elvis Presley or other legendary artists perform again, their music lives on, reminding us of the incredible impact they had on the world. Let us celebrate their legacies by embracing the magic of live music and continuing to support the artists who share their passion and talent with us.