Introduction
Elvis Presley’s concert on June 19, 1977, in Omaha, Nebraska, stands as a poignant chapter in the annals of music history. This performance was part of his final tour, with CBS selecting Omaha as a filming location for the television special “Elvis in Concert.” The special, which also included footage from a June 21 concert in Rapid City, South Dakota, was broadcast on October 3, 1977, just weeks after Presley’s untimely death on August 16, 1977.
On the day of the Omaha performance, heightened security measures were in place, with CBS personnel limiting media access and ensuring the auditorium was packed, despite some audience views being obstructed by cameras.
As Presley took the stage, it was evident that his health was in decline. Observers noted that his once dynamic stage presence had diminished; his movements were reduced, and he appeared physically unwell. Despite these challenges, he delivered renditions of classics such as “Jailhouse Rock” and “How Great Thou Art,” offering glimpses of the performer who had captivated audiences for decades.
The television special “Elvis in Concert,” which aired posthumously, presented a raw and unfiltered look at Presley’s final performances. The special has never been officially released on home video formats, as it portrays Elvis in a period where he was visibly far from his best in both appearance and performance.
For fans and historians, the Omaha concert remains a significant, albeit somber, moment in Elvis Presley’s storied career. It encapsulates the end of an era, reflecting both the enduring appeal of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll and the personal struggles he faced during his final days.