In June of 1968, Elvis taped his first television special in Burbank, California. It aired on December 3 of that same year and accomplished two things: it saved his career and showcased some of the best music of his life. Premiering on NBC, it attracted 42% of the viewing audience, was the network’s biggest ratings victory that year and the season’s top-rated show. It stands today as one of the great moments in rock music history and as a stunningly brilliant milestone in Elvis’ career.