Introduction
At 85, James Burton Finally Breaks His Silence About Elvis Presley
At 85 years old, legendary guitarist James Burton is finally opening up about his years with Elvis Presley, revealing stories and memories he has kept close to his heart for decades. Known as the man Elvis trusted to “play it, James!” on stage, Burton wasn’t just a member of the TCB Band—he was Elvis’s confidant, collaborator, and friend.
The Making of a Guitar Legend
Born on August 21, 1939, in Dberly, Louisiana, James Burton was a self-taught prodigy whose fingers seemed destined for the guitar. By his teenage years, his playing had already captured attention well beyond his hometown. He soon joined the popular Louisiana Hayride radio show—where Elvis himself had also risen to fame—and then found national recognition as lead guitarist for Ricky Nelson.
Burton’s influence stretched across rock, country, and pop. He created the iconic riff for Suzie Q in 1957, played on countless hit records as a session guitarist, and worked with stars from Johnny Cash to Joni Mitchell. His extraordinary tone and precision eventually earned him a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and, in 2024, the Country Music Hall of Fame.
“Play It, James!” – Life With Elvis Presley
In 1969, Elvis invited Burton to lead his new Las Vegas band, marking the start of an eight-year journey together. Burton assembled the TCB Band, and from the first show, Elvis trusted him completely. Night after night, when the King needed a blazing solo, he turned to Burton with his famous command: “Play it, James!”
Their bond went far beyond music. Burton recalls Elvis as kind, generous, and deeply loyal to his band. He made sure his musicians felt valued, often checking on their families and helping when anyone was in need. On stage, Elvis gave everything to his fans—tired or not, he poured his heart into every performance.
The Final Days
Burton was with Elvis until the very end. Their last show together took place on June 26, 1977, in Indianapolis. Though Elvis was struggling with health problems, he still gave the crowd his all. No one knew it would be his final performance. Weeks later, on August 16, 1977, Elvis passed away at just 42 years old.
For Burton, the memory of that last night remains sacred: Elvis smiling, turning toward him, and saying “Play it, James” one last time.
Carrying the Legacy Forward
After Elvis’s death, Burton’s career thrived. He toured with John Denver for 16 years, collaborated with legends like Roy Orbison, Emmylou Harris, and Elvis Costello, and later launched the James Burton International Guitar Festival to support music programs for children. Despite health struggles in recent years, Burton continues to play, inspire, and give back.
Remembering Elvis Presley
When Burton speaks of Elvis today, it isn’t about fame or fortune—it’s about friendship. He describes Elvis as a man of faith, deeply moved by gospel music, and someone who truly cared about others. Elvis’s generosity—whether donating to charities, helping sick children, or quietly paying off strangers’ debts—left as much of a legacy as his music.
For James Burton, Elvis was more than the King of Rock and Roll. He was a friend, a brother, and a kind soul whose memory still lives in every note he plays.