Introduction:
Elvis Presley’s live performance of “Something” during his Aloha from Hawaii via Satellite concert in 1973 represents a pivotal moment in music and broadcast history. Held at the Honolulu International Center, this concert marked the first-ever worldwide satellite broadcast featuring a single performer, reaching over 40 countries and an estimated audience of 1.5 billion viewers. Although initially intended to reach Asia and Oceania, it later aired in the United States, reinforcing Elvis’s global influence at a time when live satellite broadcasting was still in its infancy.
Elvis’s rendition of “Something” — a Beatles classic written by George Harrison — was part of a carefully curated setlist blending Elvis’s hits with covers that showcased his versatility and emotional depth. This performance not only highlighted his vocal power but also his connection with songs outside his usual repertoire, drawing attention to his ability to interpret diverse musical styles. A central piece of the larger Aloha from Hawaii concert, “Something” added depth and contrast to a show that featured both rock hits and heartfelt ballads.
Beyond entertainment, the concert had a charitable dimension. Elvis and his team collaborated with local organizations, and the concert proceeds were donated to the Kui Lee Cancer Fund, honoring the late Hawaiian songwriter Kui Lee, whose song “I’ll Remember You” was also performed. The event was highly anticipated and drew immense local and international attention, symbolizing Elvis’s enduring legacy and his deep connection with fans worldwide, even as his health declined in later years.