The Hit that Elvis Presley Hated Performing Live

Updated:

July 17, 2024 9:53 am

When an artist has a massive hit, it becomes a staple in their discography–whether they like it or not. According to Elvis Presley, there was one hit that he loathed playing live despite its popularity with his fans. Find out which song that is, below.

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The Hit That Elvis Presley’s Hated Performing Live

“Suspicious Minds” is one of The King’s most powerful offerings. The memorable melody is nearly impossible to not sing along to. As such, it became a “must” in Presley’s concert setlist. That ubiquitousness played on Presley’s nerves. He grew to hate performing the song live.

We can’t go on together
With suspicious minds (with suspicious minds)
And we can’t build our dreams
On suspicious minds

“I hate this… song, I really do,” Presley once remarked while performing “Suspicious Minds” in Las Vegas. He was very clear with his distaste for this hit, likely making the fans in attendance draw back in shock. Or, given that they were likely familiar with Presley’s humor, it might have just made their night.

So, if an old friend I know
Stops by to say hello
Would I still see suspicion in your eyes?

It’s a wonder Elvis didn’t grow to hate the majority of his songs for this same reason. His setlists read like “Greatest Hits” tracklists. Find a sample Presley setlist, below.

Elvis Presley Vegas Sample Setlist

1. Blue Suede Shoes (Carl Perkins cover)

2. I’ve Got a Woman (Ray Charles cover)

3. All Shook Up

4. Love Me Tender

5. Jailhouse Rock

6. Don’t Be Cruel

7. Heartbreak Hotel

8. Hound Dog (Big Mama Thornton cover)

9. Memories (Mac Davis cover)

10. Mystery Train (Little Junior’s Blue Flames cover)

11. Tiger Man (Rufus Thomas cover)

12. Baby What You Want Me to Do (Jimmy Reed cover)

13. In the Ghetto

14. Suspicious Minds

15. Can’t Help Falling in Love

(Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)