I had not realized the true strength and artistry of the great Elvis Presley until today.

Taking a break from work, I found myself catching half of the documentary, "Elvis Presley: The Searcher".

And I'm glad I was able to catch that one, for it showed the true grit of the man.

Of how, in 1968, he was facing an artistry crisis amidst the turbulent 60s.

That was when Martin Luther King Jr. passed on in April 4.

Then, Robert Kennedy followed suit on June 6.

The infamous era of racism and riots.

Also, the Beatles and many other British bands were hot on the charts.

Elvis had to re-invent himself.

Where everyone had bands, he was pretty much solo.

It just shows how fragile the music industry can be.

Or of how fickle our tastes would be.

And a man of Elvis' mettle had to survive all those tests.

Thankfully, he had that now-famous 1968 NBC televised show.

The documentary showed that he almost didn't go through with it.

But somehow, he managed to pull a sterling performance.

And compelled me to watch closely the strength and beauty of this artist.

All garbed in black leather, he showed who was master of guitar, song, and movement.

So, that was what my mother was all crazy about until now.

The documentary also showed how deeply his music was influenced by gospel music, blues, and rock and roll.

I'm glad I took that break today.

Otherwise I would have missed the vital artistry of this man.

There is no one like Elvis.

Such energy and dedication!

Long live the King of Rock and Roll and of his soul.