Introduction:
“Tiger Man” is a song originally recorded by blues artist Rufus Thomas in 1953, co-written with Sun Records founder Sam Phillips. Elvis Presley’s powerful rendition of the song became famous during his 1968 NBC “Comeback Special,” where he revived his career with a raw, energetic performance that reconnected him with his roots in rock and blues. Elvis’s interpretation of “Tiger Man” emphasizes themes of confidence and primal dominance, blending blues-rock elements with a bold swagger. The performance showcased his unmatched charisma and reignited his presence in the music industry, cementing his “king of the jungle” persona.
The song gained even more popularity through later performances, including a medley with “Mystery Train” in his 1970 concert film Elvis: That’s the Way It Is. In this context, “Tiger Man” became a symbol of Presley’s stage power and his enduring influence on rock and roll. This blues-infused rock piece reflects Elvis’s stylistic versatility and his unique ability to bring intense emotion to live performances.