Courtesy elvistribute.us: The concert was in 1973, at the Nassau Coliseum, in Uniondale, NY.
When I’d gotten the news that Elvis, who I’d loved as an entertainer since the 50′s, was appearing at the Coliseum, I had to go. Afterall, he was practically in my own backyard, and if I’d missed the show, I’d never have this opportunity again. My husband, never an Elvis fan, had no interest in accompanying me to the concert, so I asked my brother Neil. He said “Sure, I’ll order the tickets.” (Which by the way, cost $7.50 each…and I still have the ticket stubs!!)
Not being a concert goer, I had no idea where we’d be seated, or even that we’d have an option. I left those details to my brother. Wherever we’d sit was fine with me. As it turned out, we were ushered to the back set of rows, behind the stage. I thought, “Ooo, I’ll never get to see him”. But I was wrong. Elvis accomodated all his fans, moving to all sides of the stage to give each section a part of his performance, and of himself. He came to the back railing, on several occasions, and sang just to us. At those times I took some pictures with my simple, zoomless camera. Needless to say, the pictures weren’t that clear, but I later had them enlarged… to a grainy image. Regardless of the blur, I treasure those pictures, with the ticket stubs enclosed in a frame, and the memory of that evening when I saw Elvis in person! I may not have a scarf soaked with Elvis-sweat, or an imprint of his kiss on my lips, or the feel of his Teddy Bear hug, but I have those memories, of the one and only time I saw Elvis in the flesh!
Several years ago, my present husband had a convention in Nashville, Tenn, and as a special treat for me, we drove to Graceland and went on a tour of the mansion. What a feeling, being in the house where Elvis had once lived! My mother, who has since passed away, used to love watching Elvis’ movies. I used to look at her and think, how odd, an old woman watching this young, handsome man. Now when I watch his movies, my daughter looks at me in the same way.
So many people, young and old, were fascinated by the man. He was gorgeous to look at, he had a fantistic, unique voice, honest smile, and such charisma. Who could not love such a person? Elvis, we will always miss and love you. Thanks to today’s technology, we’ll have you around for a very long time, in your music, your movies, and all the literature that has been written about you. On a special note: Elvis impersonator-tribute artist Trent Carlini, when I saw him on stage in Las Vegas in 2002, it was like watching and listening to Elvis himself. He is the best I’ve seen or heard. My husband and I were in Vegas for our 25th Anniv. and to renew our vows at the Graceland Chapel. Elvis, rest in peace, we love you and miss you.
Antoinette
