In early 2003, during the live recording at the Henry Fonda Theatre, Elliott Smith was experiencing a pivotal moment in his career following the release of his self-titled album in 2000. This album marked a departure toward a more polished sound, contrasting with his earlier, more lo-fi recordings. By January 2003, he was performing songs that showcased his evolution as an artist, including "King's Crossing," which reflects his introspective lyricism and complex emotions. Notably, this concert comes shortly after Smith's critically acclaimed album, "Figure 8," which was released in 2000 and highlighted his growing prominence in the indie music scene. The live recording captures Smith's intimate stage presence and serves as a reminder of his struggles with fame and mental health during this period, which would eventually influence his later work and legacy.