Just ten weeks. That is how long Elvis Presley had before he went into the United States Army in March 1958. This rare interview happened on January 11, 1958, in Fort Worth, Texas. He was traveling to Hollywood to start filming his movie, King Creole. This moment was the last time the King was a regular citizen before his life completely changed.
This press talk was a huge turning point for Elvis. He was caught between being a wild rock star and a humble G.I. He was polite and told reporters he did not want special treatment in the service. When asked about cutting his famous sideburns, he smiled and said they would grow back. This showed his quiet confidence that his fame would last.
Elvis interview in Fort Worth, Texas, January 11, 1958
Fans loved seeing Elvis be so honest and relaxed, calling the old footage a true gem. One viewer said he looked “so cute and innocent.” Another comment mentioned that he was just “such an honest soul.” Many said that they could listen to him talk forever.
Elvis was ready to be a good soldier, but he also had to think about his music career while he was gone. He said he would record on leave to keep his name popular. The sound of this calm and respectful man was captured in his newest single, “Don’t.” Just 4 days before the interview, before leaving for the Army, he released this song.
Elvis Presley – Don’t (Official Lyric Video)
The song “Don’t” was written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, and within a month of its release, it hit No. 1 on the charts. This soft, pleading pop song was different from his rock hits like “Jailhouse Rock.” It was a plea for love, not a shout for dancing, using the line, “Do not leave your man, do not leave your man / Do not ever leave your man.”
Elvis showed he was a true artist by singing both wild rock and tender songs like “Don’t.” His voice and gentle style on that song helped America see him as a mature man. This honesty created a bond with his audience that the Army could not break. Follow Elvis Presley on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube to see more of his incredible journey.