There’s no doubt that Elvis Presley has one of the greatest singing voices of all time. Aside from music, he was also a remarkable humanitarian.
Few artists have wielded the power of music to bridge divides as profoundly as Elvis Presley.
Beyond his legendary voice and electrifying performances, Elvis was a true trailblazer for equality, challenging societal norms through his platform. In 1970, the King of Rock ‘N’ Roll received an unexpected ultimatum while preparing for a monumental concert at the Houston Astrodome.
What happened next solidified his legacy as both a musical icon and a compassionate ally in the fight against racism.
Elvis Presley scheduled a performance at the Houston Astrodome in 1970. ‘The Dome’, which opened in 1965, was a massive arena with several functions beyond just hosting concerts.
The concert was unique in many ways. Colonel Parker, Elvis’ enigmatic manager, selected the Houston Astrodome as the first venue for Elvis to perform outside of Las Vegas.
Interestingly, the Houston Astrodome was also the first venue where the Sweet Inspirations performed outside of Las Vegas, marking an important milestone in their career.

The Sweet Inspirations, a groundbreaking African-American female vocal group formed in the 1960s, were known for their soulful harmony and powerful performances.
An incredible opportunity to tour with Elvis Presley presented itself to them in 1969. They were initially unable to believe it was true.
I said, ‘Elvis Presley!'” “What does he want us for?” The Associated Press recalled Myrna Smith, one of the group’s three slender and attractive women, during a 1974 interview.
The members were concerned that their rhythm and blues and soul styles may clash with the Mississippi-born entertainer. Elvis appealed mostly to a white audience more used to country and rock.

First meeting.
However, there was no need to worry, as it turned out. The chemistry was undeniable from the moment they first met Elvis.
“We’ve never had another doubt,” Sylvia Shemwell stated, adding, “He’s a wonderful person, and he doesn’t care what color you are.”
The Sweet Inspirations met Elvis for the first time in Las Vegas during rehearsals for their 1969 engagement. Elvis wore a stunning chocolate-colored suit and had a perfect tan when they first met; he looked absolutely gorgeous.
He walked over to them and introduced himself as if they didn’t already know: “Hi, my name is Elvis Presley.” From then on, whenever he saw them, he always gave them a warm kiss.

According to reports at the time, Presley wanted the Sweet Inspirations because they were lively, attractive, and, most importantly, extremely talented. However, not everyone was so enthusiastic about the band.
Myrna Smith, the lead singer, claims that when Elvis made his debut in Texas at the Astrodome, someone told him, “Well, you can leave the black girls at home.” “You don’t have to bring them.”
The rumor that Elvis was racist has persisted for years. In 1957, a magazine published a false story about him, claiming he made a statement he never did.
This was only one of the inaccuracies that circulated over the years, implying that the King of Rock ‘N’ Roll had anything against African Americans.
“Well, if they don’t come, I’m not coming.”
The truth is, Elvis actively sought racial reconciliation through the musicians he chose to work with and how he treated them. The Houston Astrodome scheduled its first Elvis concert alongside the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
Due to racial bias, Rodeo officials made a controversial request that Elvis leave behind his African-American female backing group. However, Elvis was quick to respond.
“A message was sent to leave the black girls; they did not need them. Elvis responded, ‘Well, if they don’t come, I don’t come.'” However, his frustration was evident. One person in particular had sent the message. Upon our arrival, a petite blonde in a convertible welcomed us and took the wheel. She was his daughter. Elvis always made it a point to even things out. I’m sure he said, ‘And I want your daughter to drive them.’ However, we were unaware of what was happening. We found out later,” Myrna Smith told interviewer David Adams, according to Elvispresleymusic.com.
It was a moment that spoke much about Elvis’ character, as he refused to abandon his friends or allow prejudice to mar his performance.

As promised, Elvis not only brought the sweet inspirations to the stage, but also ensured their celebration. This was more than just a performance; it was a bold stand against racial prejudice, a declaration of equality in an era of division. For Elvis, they were more than just backup singers; they were family.

The group was surprised by the warm reception they received throughout the show, resulting in a $1.2 million payout. Nobody wanted to say anything that may hurt their feelings, so Elvis’ crew kept quiet about what had happened. Muyrna Smith and the band learned years later that Elvis had defended them, ensuring they received the respect they deserved.
Elvis sang his best, and many who attended thought it was a beautiful concert, despite the Astrodome’s inability to accommodate a concert as large as he had promised.
Following the last show, Elvis held a press conference at Astroworld for around 100 journalists. He expressed how much he enjoyed performing in the Astrodome, saying it gave him a great thrill.
When Elvis left Astroworld, he wore a blue, Easy Rider-inspired suede jacket with black trousers. He left with an impressive 20 suitcases and three guitars, $1.2 million richer than he had only three days before. But it wasn’t just about the money; Elvis had also demonstrated that he was more than just the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll; he was a true human being who valued those around him.

Myrna remembers Elvis having a unique connection with his African-American female backing group. Myrna Smith recalls a cherished moment with Elvis that perfectly captured his warmth and charm, as well as their strong bond. During their first meeting in 1969, the Star took them to his penthouse. The atmosphere was relaxed and filled with laughter, with the lively sounds of the 45s playing in the background. Friends and musicians mingle as Elvis approaches Myrna and asks if she wants to dance.

“It was a slow recording. So I said, ‘Okay’. And I am under the impression that Elvis had never danced with a black woman before, as his entire body trembled when he began dancing with me. I felt as though I could grab him and hold him.
And, you know, he was shy anyhow. However, all of these girls, you know, he had been around, and he is this macho lover, whatever, and he was just a little boy back then. But that’s how he was, you know. I saw him as a member of my family. When he died and I screamed, my mother said, ‘He’s not in the family. What are you grieving for, and why are you ending our relationship? Because I love him, he is like a brother to me. You already have a brother.” She didn’t understand then, but now she does.” Myrna shared.

Myrna Smith’s cause of death
From 1969 to 1977, the Sweet Inspirations worked closely with Elvis, accompanying him on his Las Vegas shows, national concert tours, and recordings.
They played almost a thousand concerts with Elvis.

The Sweet Inspirations. From left to right in 1979, we see Myrna Smith, Sylvia Shemwell, and Gloria Brown. (Photo: Gems/Redferns)
Their harmonious voices complemented his legendary sound, resulting in unforgettable music together. Notably, Myrna Smith also contributed to Elvis’ 1976 Graceland recordings, participating in both the February and October/November sessions.
These collaborations resulted in two remarkable albums that showcased Elvis’ unique blend of style and the group’s soulful influences. Myrna Smith died of kidney failure yesterday. She was 69.
Have you ever heard this story about Elvis? I certainly hadn’t, but I believe all of my friends would like this anecdote.
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