Elvis Presley was known for his extraordinary voice and electrifying performances, but few know about a little-known moment that changed everything for his singers and cemented his reputation as a humanitarian and champion for equality.
In 1970, as the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll prepared to perform at the iconic Houston Astrodome—a massive, multi-purpose venue opened in 1965 that had hosted countless events—he faced an unexpected ultimatum that would reveal his true character. His enigmatic manager, Colonel Parker, had selected the Astrodome as the first venue for Elvis to perform outside of Las Vegas, a decision that not only marked a major milestone for him but also provided a historic opportunity for The Sweet Inspirations, a groundbreaking African-American female vocal group renowned for their soulful harmonies and powerful performances.
Formed in the 1960s, The Sweet Inspirations had built a reputation for their talent and vibrant stage presence, and in 1969 they were approached with an incredible opportunity to tour with Elvis. Initially, the group was astonished and somewhat uncertain about the offer; Myrna Smith, one of its members, recalled in an interview, “Elvis Presley! What does he want us for?” as they worried that their signature rhythm and blues style might not mesh with the Mississippi-born entertainer whose appeal had traditionally resonated with a predominantly white audience.
However, any doubts were quickly dispelled when they met Elvis in Las Vegas during rehearsals for their 1969 engagement. Dressed in a striking chocolate-colored suit and sporting a flawless tan, Elvis introduced himself simply by saying, “Hi, I’m Elvis Presley,” and from that moment on every encounter was marked by a warm kiss and genuine kindness, instantly assuring the group of his inclusive nature.
Despite reports suggesting that Elvis had specifically sought out The Sweet Inspirations for their liveliness, beauty, and undeniable talent, not everyone welcomed their participation. When Elvis made his debut in Texas at the Astrodome, rumors circulated that he had been advised, “You can leave the black girls at home. You don’t have to bring them,” a claim that fueled unfounded allegations of racism—including a false statement published in 1957.
In truth, Elvis actively pursued racial reconciliation by choosing to work with musicians from diverse backgrounds and treating them as family. When officials from the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, which was connected to the concert, requested that he exclude his African-American backing group due to racial biases, Elvis responded decisively, “Well if they don’t come, I don’t come,” making it clear that he would not let prejudice dictate his performance.
Myrna Smith later recounted how, upon arrival, they were met by a young blonde in a convertible—Elvis’s daughter—who drove them around as a subtle but firm reminder that he would ensure they were treated with respect. This act of defiance spoke volumes about his character, showing that he was unwilling to abandon his friends or compromise his values. During the show, the members of The Sweet Inspirations were both puzzled and deeply touched by the warm reception they received; it was only years later that they learned the full extent of Elvis’s support. After the final concert, Elvis held a press conference at Astroworld for about 100 journalists, expressing his exhilaration at performing in the Astrodome, and when he left he did so in unmistakable style—sporting a blue, Easy Rider-inspired suede jacket with black trousers, carrying twenty suitcases and three guitars, and walking away $1.2 million richer than he had been just three days earlier. Yet for Elvis, it was never solely about the money; he had proven himself to be a true mensch who valued equality and the people he considered family.
Myrna Smith fondly recalled a special moment from their first meeting in 1969 at Elvis’s penthouse, where, amid an atmosphere filled with laughter and the soft sounds of 45s spinning in the background, Elvis asked her to dance—a gesture that made her feel as though he were like a brother.
This deep bond endured as The Sweet Inspirations continued to work closely with Elvis from 1969 until 1977, accompanying him on Las Vegas shows, national tours, and recording sessions that produced timeless music blending his legendary style with their soulful influence. Although Myrna Smith sadly passed away in 2010 at age 69, her cherished memories and the story of that unforgettable moment continue to remind us of what a fantastic human being Elvis truly was.
