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Elvis Presley, an American icon, was adored by fans all over the world. However, due to his manager Colonel Tom Parker’s lack of a passport, Presley never had the opportunity to take his successful touring act overseas in the early 1970s. The Colonel was afraid that someone would steal Elvis from him and did not trust anyone enough to take Elvis abroad.

In 1972, Parker found a solution to the demand of the worldwide audience – a live TV concert broadcasted via satellite. Inspired by live TV images from President Nixon’s visit to China, Parker decided to bring Elvis to the world through this innovative broadcast. RCA Records is releasing a remastered version of the January 1973 show, titled “Elvis Aloha From Hawaii via Satellite,” in various formats to celebrate its 50th anniversary.

Although not as well-known as the 1968 NBC show “The ’68 Comeback Special,” which revitalized Presley’s career, “Aloha” is regarded as his last recorded live performance at the peak of his powers. It marked the final triumph before his untimely death in 1977.

The concert, held on January 14, 1973, at the Honolulu International Center Arena, was initially aired only in Asia and Oceania. It was later broadcasted in Europe and the United States. In the U.S., it was watched by a remarkable 57% of households with televisions on the night of its broadcast.

The event occurred during a challenging time in Presley’s life. He was going through personal turmoil, including the end of his marriage and an increasing dependency on drugs. Parker organized the concert to lift Presley out of his depression.

NBC hired experienced producer Marty Pasetta to oversee the show. Although initially nervous about confronting Presley, Pasetta managed to get through to him by urging him to lose weight and move more on stage. Presley went on a crash diet and looked rejuvenated by the time of the show.

The concert featured set designs that allowed Presley to interact closely with his fans. He received leis from female fans and gave them kisses, scarves, and perspiration-filled handkerchiefs in return. The show was a spectacle with flashing lights, a lower stage, and a long runway for Presley to engage with the audience.

The music in “Aloha” reflects Presley’s touring show at the time, featuring his own hits and covers of classic rock ‘n’ roll songs. While some performances feel obligatory, Presley’s emotional involvement shines in the heavily orchestrated ballads.

“Elvis Aloha From Hawaii via Satellite” is not only a throwback to a significant moment in pop culture but also an opportunity for new fans to witness the last triumphant chapter of Elvis Presley’s career.

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