"Upon the advice of guitarist James Burton, Elvis chose an unexpected bassist for an audition - Jerry Scheff, embodying an edge reminiscent of punk-rock energy"
In August 1969, Jerry Scheff auditioned for Elvis Presley's new live band, marking a turning point in the King of Rock and Roll's musical journey. Scheff, a seasoned musician known for his experimentation and independent style, brought a renewed raw energy and powerful rhythm foundation to Elvis's performances.
Prior to the audition, Scheff had reservations about Elvis's music. However, his approach to bass playing, which involves listening to the music, starting with the vocalist or instrumental melody, resonated with Elvis's search for a fresh sound.
The core of Elvis's TCB - Taking Care of Business - Band was formed by Scheff and drummer Ronnie Tutt. Their dynamic partnership marked the beginning of a new era in Elvis's live performances, pushing him to deliver some of his most intense and spirited shows.
One of the most significant moments in this new era was the 1969 Las Vegas engagement at the International Hotel. Here, Scheff's performance on the live recording of "Suspicious Minds" showcases a magical blend of down-home Memphis soul with a more aggressive aesthetic.
"Suspicious Minds" was recorded on January 23rd, 1969, at the American Sound Studio in Memphis. The opening riff was played by James Burton, a member of the TCB Band, based on how he felt it. Mike Leech, another musician, played the bassline with a no-frills style that combined roots and 5ths.
Elvis's popularity in the music world had decreased by the late 1960s. However, his 1968 television special, Elvis, helped revive his slumping career. The renewed energy and vitality brought by Scheff and Tutt in the TCB Band further propelled Elvis's comeback, making them a tightly knit, creative group that supported The King’s continued presence as a dynamic live performer through the 1970s until Elvis's death in 1977.
The TCB Band, including Scheff and Tutt, was a juiced-up juggernaut of a group, always on the lookout for a new stroke of genius and ready to experiment to put together a better rendition of a song. Scheff's ears were always open for such inspiration coming from the other players, something on which to hang a new musical hat.
[1] Rock and Roll Hall of Fame [2] Rolling Stone
- Eventually, the renewed energy and powerful rhythm foundation provided by Jerry Scheff on his bass guitar, as well as the dynamic partnership with drummer Ronnie Tutt, propelled Elvis Presley's TCB Band to receive recognition in prestigious music platforms like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
- Scheff's technique of listening to the music, starting with the vocalist or instrumental melody, caught the attention of Rolling Stone magazine, highlighting his significant contribution to Elvis Presley's music and his crucial role in shaping the unique sound of the TCB Band.
- As the heart of the TCB Band, Scheff's guitar and bass skills showcased a creative blend of various music styles, from Memphis soul to a more aggressive aesthetic, making him an influential figure in the evolution of live entertainment.
- By transforming Elvis Presley's live performances and delivering impressive renditions of popular songs like "Suspicious Minds," the TCB Band, including the guitar skills of James Burton and the bass playing of Jerry Scheff, helped propel Elvis Presley back to the forefront of the music industry during the 1970s, ensuring his continued presence as a dynamic live performer until his death in 1977.
