Although Elvis had been rehearsing for his Vegas opening at RCA studio since 1969, he had not recorded there since April 1960. This would also be the first time that Elvis worked with J.D. Sumner and the Stamps and with his live band. All were there except for Jerry Scheff, who was replaced by Emory Gordy. The sessions began at 7.00 p.m. and ended in the early morning hours. Elvis focused on bittersweet songs of loss and regret like "Where Do I Go From Here", "For The Good Times" and "Separate Ways", which was written for and about him.