It’s July fifteenth, and on this day in 1969… Elvis Presley assembled a new band in preparation for his upcoming Las Vegas engagement. He hired blues guitarist James Burton as band leader—a seasoned musician known for his role on *Ozzie and Harriet*. Burton brought in pianist Larry Muhoberac, drummer Ronnie Tutt, bassist Jerry Scheff, and rhythm guitarist John Wilkinson. Elvis also enlisted vocal groups the Imperials and the Sweet Inspirations, creating the lineup that would power his triumphant return to live performance. Meanwhile, in 1962, Elvis rented out the Fairgrounds amusement park for a private evening of fun with family and friends, showing a rare, relaxed side of the King amid his skyrocketing career.

It’s July fourteenth, and on this day in 1976… Elvis Presley flew to Las Vegas with Linda Thompson and resumed medical care under Dr. Ghanem, marking a period of increased health concerns for the King. Just the day before, on July thirteenth, Vernon Presley made the difficult decision to fire three longtime members of Elvis’s entourage—Sonny West, Red West, and karate expert Dave Hebler—citing financial belt tightening amid ongoing tensions within the group. The abrupt dismissals shocked those involved, especially Red West, Elvis’s high school friend, highlighting the growing strains behind the scenes of Elvis’s inner circle.

It's July thirteenth, and on this day in 1977… Elvis gave his girlfriend, Ginger Alden, a Triumph sports car. Just weeks before his passing, this extravagant gift reflected Elvis’s ongoing generosity and flair for romantic gestures—even as his health declined. The gesture stood out among many he had made over the years, offering a glimpse into the private world of the King during his final summer.