At the age of 85, James Burton, one of the most renowned guitarists in rock ‘n’ roll history, has finally opened up about his time with Elvis Presley. Known for his legendary guitar solos on iconic Elvis songs like “Suspicious Minds” and “Burning Love”, Burton has lived a life intertwined with some of the greatest moments in music history.
In this rare, emotional interview, Burton reflects on his time playing with The King and shares the deeper connection he had with Elvis Presley — a connection that went beyond the stage and the spotlight. After decades of silence, James Burton has decided to finally speak on what it was truly like to work alongside Elvis, and what the world may not have seen about the man behind the music.
A Lifelong Friendship and a Shared Passion for Music
Burton first met Elvis Presley in 1969, when he was invited to join the King’s band. Burton quickly became an integral part of Elvis’s sound, adding the unmistakable guitar licks and soulful rhythms that would help define the sound of the late ’60s and ’70s.
“Elvis was a force of nature,” Burton recalls, his voice tinged with admiration. “But beyond the fame, he was just a guy who loved music. He had this incredible way of bringing everyone into his world. You felt like you were part of something bigger, something timeless.”
Burton’s contribution to Elvis’s live shows and recordings was significant. Whether it was the electric guitar on “A Little Less Conversation” or the haunting melody of “Heartbreak Hotel”, Burton’s sound was a key element in the magic that was Elvis Presley.
“He trusted me,” Burton says. “Elvis had a way of making you feel like a part of him, like you weren’t just playing his music, but helping him tell his story.”
Behind the Scenes: Elvis’s Generosity and Genuine Heart
While Elvis’s life was often lived in the public eye, Burton shares a side of the King that few truly knew. Away from the stage, Elvis was known for his generosity and genuine care for his friends and family. Burton speaks of how Elvis would go out of his way to help others, especially those struggling.
“He always made sure we were taken care of, not just as musicians but as people,” Burton says with a soft smile. “He was generous to a fault, whether it was helping a friend or just making sure everyone around him was happy. People didn’t always see that side of him, but I did, and it made me respect him even more.”
Burton fondly recalls how Elvis would always make sure the band had everything they needed, whether it was a break between shows, a comfortable hotel room, or a quiet place to just relax. The deeper bond of mutual respect and trust was clear — a trust that extended beyond music to genuine friendship.
The Loss of a Legend: Grief and Healing
For Burton, losing Elvis Presley in 1977 was an emotional blow — not only as a bandmate but as a close friend. Burton speaks candidly about the grief that followed and the way Elvis’s death changed his life forever.
“When we lost Elvis, I lost a brother. It was hard to believe, you know? We were all part of something so special, and it just felt like a piece of me was gone,” Burton admits, his voice trembling slightly.
The years following Elvis’s death were difficult for Burton, as the world seemed to fall silent without the sound of the King’s voice leading the way. But over time, Burton channeled that grief into his own music, continuing to honor the legacy of the man who had been both a friend and a mentor.
“I carry his music with me everywhere,” Burton reflects. “And I hope to keep telling his story, because Elvis will never be forgotten. His music still resonates, and I’m proud to have been a part of that.”
A Legacy That Lives On
Now, as he reflects on his career and the long road he’s traveled, James Burton’s eyes light up when talking about the music he and Elvis created together. The songs, the performances, the memories — they’re still very much alive in his heart.
“What we did together wasn’t just a moment in time. It’s a part of history,” Burton says. “Every time I pick up my guitar, I think about those days with Elvis. And that’s something I’ll never stop doing. It was an honor to play for the King.”
Conclusion – A Lifetime of Music, A Lifetime of Friendship
At 85, James Burton may be looking back on his remarkable life, but he’s still going strong, still creating music, and still sharing the story of his time with Elvis Presley. For fans of the King, this interview is a treasure trove of memories, insights, and reflections — and it gives us a deeper understanding of the man who shaped the soundtrack of our lives.
In the end, Elvis Presley’s legacy continues — not just through the music he created, but through those who were privileged to be part of his world, and James Burton will forever remain one of the key figures in that enduring story.