There is little doubt that Elvis Presley possessed one of the greatest singing voices of all time. Beyond music, he was a tremendous humanitarian.
Few musicians have utilized the power of music to bridge divides like Elvis Presley. Beyond his famed voice and electrifying performances, Elvis was a passionate equality advocate who used his platform to question society standards. When the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll prepared for a historic concert in the Houston Astrodome in 1970, he received an unexpected ultimatum.
What occurred next solidified his image as a musical legend and humanitarian partner in the struggle against racism.
In 1970, Elvis Presley was scheduled to appear in the Houston Astrodome. ‘The Dome’, which opened in 1965, was a massive arena with several activities other than music.
The concert was unique in many ways. Colonel Parker, Elvis Presley’s enigmatic manager, chose the Houston Astrodome for Elvis’ debut performance outside of Las Vegas.
Interestingly, the Houston Astrodome was also the first arena where The Sweet Inspirations performed outside of Las Vegas, marking an important milestone in their career.
First meeting.
However, there was no need to worry, as it turned out. They had evident chemistry from the moment they met Elvis.
“We’ve never had another doubt,” said Sylvia Shemwell, adding, “He’s a wonderful person, and he doesn’t care what color you are.”
The Sweet Inspirations first encountered Elvis in Las Vegas during rehearsals for their 1969 tour. Elvis looked incredibly stunning in his chocolate-colored suit and great tan during their first meeting.
He approached them and introduced himself, as if they didn’t already know: “Hi, my name is Elvis Presley.” Since then, anytime he saw them, he would greet them with a hearty kiss.
“Well if they don’t come, I don’t come”
However, the truth is that Elvis actively sought racial reconciliation through the musicians he selected to collaborate with and how he treated them. When the Houston Astrodome hosted its first Elvis show, it coincided with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
Due of racial biases, rodeo organizers requested that he leave behind his African-American female backing group. However, Elvis responded quickly.
Myrna has a special recollection of Elvis
Elvis had a special bond with the members of his African-American female backing group. Myrna Smith recalls a cherished experience with Elvis that completely encapsulates his warmth and charisma, as well as their deep friendship. During their first meeting in 1969, the singer took them to his apartment.
The atmosphere was relaxed, with laughter and the energetic sounds of 45s playing in the background. Elvis approached Myrna and asked if she wanted to dance.
