About the Song
“Guitar Man” is a song by Elvis Presley that was first released in 1967 on the album “Clambake” but gained more prominence when it was included in the NBC television special “Elvis,” which aired in 1968. The song was written by Jerry Reed, who also recorded his own version.
Here are some details about the song:
- Release Date: “Guitar Man” was officially released on the “Clambake” soundtrack album in November 1967.
- Songwriter: The song was written by Jerry Reed, a talented country musician, and songwriter. Jerry Reed’s original version, released in 1967, had a different arrangement compared to Elvis’s version.
- Elvis’s Version: Elvis Presley’s rendition of “Guitar Man” was featured in the famous ’68 Comeback Special. This televised performance marked Elvis’s return to live performances after several years of focusing on movies. The special was officially titled “Elvis,” but it is commonly referred to as the ’68 Comeback Special.
- Style and Theme: “Guitar Man” is an upbeat, rock and roll song with a country influence. The lyrics tell the story of a musician’s life on the road, highlighting the struggles and rewards of being a guitar man.
- Reception: Elvis’s performance of “Guitar Man” in the ’68 Comeback Special was well-received, and the song became one of the highlights of the show. The special played a significant role in revitalizing Elvis’s career and reaffirming his status as a dynamic live performer.
- Legacy: The ’68 Comeback Special is considered a pivotal moment in Elvis’s career, and “Guitar Man” remains one of the memorable songs associated with that period. The song has been covered by various artists over the years.
Overall, “Guitar Man” is celebrated for its energetic performance by Elvis Presley and its connection to the iconic ’68 Comeback Special, which played a crucial role in re-establishing Elvis’s reputation as a live performer.