Guitarist James Burton

Verified Timeline

Lore & Background

James Burton first turned down an offer to play on Elvis Presley's 1968 comeback TV special, but when Presley asked again in 1969 to join his Las Vegas show, Burton accepted. He organized and led the TCB Band, backing Presley from 1969 until Presley's death in 1977. A hallmark of Presley's live shows was his exhortation, "Play it, James," as a cue for Burton's solos. For the first Vegas season in 1969, Burton played his red standard Telecaster, then purchased the now-familiar pink paisley custom Telecaster. Unsure if Elvis would like it, Burton was relieved when Elvis did, and he used it for every show thereafter. While working with Presley, Burton also recorded a solo album, *The Guitar Sounds of James Burton*, in 1971.

In Their Own Story

In 1969, the Las Vegas Hilton stage was set for a new chapter. James Burton, having declined Presley's offer for the '68 comeback special, now stood ready with his red standard Telecaster. Elvis gave the nod, and Burton's opening riffs cut through the casino air. Soon after, he switched to a pink paisley custom Telecaster — a gamble that paid off when Elvis approved. Night after night, the crowd heard Elvis shout, "Play it, James," and Burton delivered solos that became the backbone of the King's live shows. From that first Vegas season through every tour until 1977, Burton's guitar was the constant thread, weaving through rockabilly, gospel, and ballads with precision and fire.

Reader's Guide

The TCB Band, organized and led by James Burton, backed Elvis Presley from 1969 to 1977. This core ensemble defined the sound of Presley's final touring years. Key personnel included Glen D. Hardin on piano and Jerry Scheff on bass, both of whom later joined Burton in John Denver's band. The group's chemistry allowed for improvisational solos that became fan favorites. Notable performances included the Las Vegas residencies at the International Hotel and later the Las Vegas Hilton. Burton's tenure with Presley was exclusive during this period — he also joined Emmylou Harris's Hot Band in 1975-76 but returned to Presley when the King was ready to tour again. The TCB Band remained loyal until Presley's death in 1977, marking the end of an era. After Presley's death, Burton began a regular collaboration with John Denver, recording the album *I Want to Live* and touring with Denver until 1994.

Did You Know?

• James Burton created and played the guitar riff on Dale Hawkins' 1957 hit 'Susie Q,' but never received credit or royalties for his contributions.
• Burton turned down an offer to join Bob Dylan's first touring band due to the volume of session work.
• Elvis Presley's live show catchphrase 'Play it, James' was a cue for Burton's guitar solos.
• Burton's pink paisley custom Telecaster was purchased after the first Vegas season in 1969; he used it for every show after Elvis approved it.
• After Presley's death in 1977, Burton joined John Denver's band and remained a member until 1994, recording 12 albums and touring worldwide.