Watch the video at the end of this article.
Introduction
For over six decades, James Burton has been hailed as one of the most influential guitarists of the modern era. His crisp, precise riffs helped define the sound of rock, country, and rockabilly, earning him a place among music’s greatest legends. But for many fans, his most iconic role was as Elvis Presley’s right-hand man on stage.
Now, at 85, Burton is sharing the stories he has kept to himself for nearly fifty years — personal memories, heartfelt moments, and truths about his time with the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
From Louisiana Prodigy to Music Pioneer
Born in Dubberly, Louisiana, in 1939, Burton picked up the guitar as a child and taught himself to play. By his teens, he was performing on the Louisiana Hayride, the same radio program that helped launch Elvis into stardom. His extraordinary talent soon took him to Los Angeles, where he became Ricky Nelson’s lead guitarist, shaping the early rockabilly sound. His work soon expanded to collaborations with Dale Hawkins on Suzie Q and recordings with Johnny Cash, Glen Campbell, Emmylou Harris, and Joni Mitchell. Critics lauded him as a virtuoso whose sound was as precise as it was soulful.
Joining Elvis and the TCB Band
When Elvis prepared for his Las Vegas comeback in 1969, he assembled a band of the finest musicians available. Burton answered the call, becoming a founding member of the legendary TCB Band. On stage, Elvis would famously shout, “Play it, James!” before Burton’s electrifying solos sent audiences into a frenzy. His pink paisley Telecaster became nearly as legendary as Elvis’s iconic jumpsuits.
The Last Years Together
For eight years, Burton stood by Elvis through countless concerts, studio sessions, and marathon jam nights. Their final show took place in June 1977 in Indianapolis — unknowingly Elvis’s last performance. Looking back, Burton has said Elvis was pushing himself too far during that period. Weeks later, the world lost its King, and Burton lost a close friend.
Life After Elvis
Burton’s career continued to flourish, with collaborations ranging from John Denver to Roy Orbison’s Black and White Night, as well as performances with artists such as Elvis Costello and Brad Paisley. His contributions earned him induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2001 and, more recently, the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2024.
Remembering the King
Today, Burton recalls Elvis with deep affection: a man who loved gospel music, cared for his band, and quietly helped those in need. “Elvis wasn’t just the King,” Burton says. “He was an incredible person with a heart full of kindness.”
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