Elvis signs up to a series of concerts in Las Vegas

31st July 1969

Elvis takes Vegas. After almost a decade of not singing or performing live, Elvis signs up to a series of concerts at the International Hotel, Las Vegas. A solo performer, it’s down to him to plan everything and he methodically crafts a show that includes the country’s top musicians and backing singers and the hotel’s resident orchestra. Opening night is a sell-out and reviews are ecstatic, as the tanned and lean 34-year-old walks nonchalantly on stage in dark karate gi-inspired two-piece suit, smiles and then rips in to a rebooted version of Blue Suede Shoes. It’s a runaway success, breaking attendance records – which earns him his famous gold belt - and goes down in Vegas history as the most spectacular and successful show of its time – ultimately changing the way in which audiences are entertained.