As per Priscilla, this is the melody that Elvis intensely executes with all of his feelings

Elvis Presley’s 1968 Comeback Special is widely regarded as one of the most iconic moments in his career. One of the standout performances from that television special was his rendition of “If I Can Dream,” which he performed wearing a black leather suit and backed by a full orchestra.

The song was written by Walter Earl Brown and was intended to be a tribute to Martin Luther King Jr., who had been assassinated earlier that year. The lyrics speak of hope and unity, with Elvis delivering an impassioned performance that still resonates with audiences today.

Elvis’ decision to perform the song with a live orchestra was a bold move at the time, as many rock ‘n’ roll artists of the era relied heavily on pre-recorded backing tracks. But Elvis was determined to showcase his versatility as a performer, and the orchestra added a level of depth and drama to the performance that elevated it to another level.

The black leather suit that Elvis wore for the performance also became an iconic moment in pop culture history. Designed by costume designer Bill Belew, the suit was a departure from Elvis’ usual flashy stage outfits and gave him a more mature, sophisticated look that suited the solemnity of the song.

Overall, Elvis’ rendition of “If I Can Dream” with the live orchestra remains one of his most powerful performances. It showcased his vocal prowess, his ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level, and his willingness to take creative risks that set him apart from other performers of his era.