The Rolling Stones' Ron Wood, Queen's Brian May, and Van Morrison were but a few of the heavyweights performing with legendary Elvis Presley guitarist James Burton during his June 4th concert at England's London Palladium. Among the guest performers was famed guitarist Albert Lee, former-Doobie Brothers guitarist Jeff “Skunk” Baxter, and Paul Shaffer. The 83-year-old Burton has been battling countless health issues over the recent years — including kidney cancer.
As Elvis' lead guitarist, James Burton performed every show “The King” played between 1969 and 1977. In the ensuing years he toured extensively with John Denver and also played with Elvis Costello, among many others.
Highlights included early songs from his time backing the teenaged Ricky Nelson, studio work with the Monkees — featuring vocals by Micky Dolenz — along with a medley of Glen Campbell tunes and a salute to his time with Elvis.