The Ed Sullivan Show: Five Performances That Reshaped Classic Rock

Once upon a time, a single performance on a late night talk show could catapult a musician's career to incredible heights. This was precisely the power of The Ed Sullivan Show, a show which saw some of classic rock's most legendary performances between 1948 and 1971. The show welcomed a variety of artists, but rock performances stood out, leaving an enduring legacy in music history.

The Doors

The Doors, with Jim Morrison at the helm, commanded audiences with a magnetic presence that was both provocative and poetic. During their 1967 appearance, Morrison famously defied the producers' request to alter the lyrics of 'Light My Fire'. He sang the original line 'couldn't get much higher', leading to a ban from future shows. Yet, this act of rebellion only solidified their status as rock icons.

Buddy Holly

A decade earlier in 1958, Buddy Holly stood his ground against Ed Sullivan's demand to drop 'Oh, Boy!' from the setlist due to suggestive lyrics. Holly's uncompromising stance resulted in Sullivan sabotaging his performance by lowering his amp. Nonetheless, Holly's defiant gig only bolstered his reputation, to the extent that when invited back, he quipped that Sullivan couldn't afford them.

The Beatles

The Beatles' 1964 performance on the show is perhaps the most famous of all, watched by a staggering 73 million viewers. The Fab Four's Sullivan debut sparked 'Beatlemania' in America and underscored their meteoric rise as rock 'n' roll's most dominant force, following their chart-topping hit 'I Want to Hold Your Hand' just weeks earlier.

Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley graced the Sullivan stage three times, with his final appearance coming in 1957 before his 22nd birthday. Despite Sullivan's lukewarm introduction, Elvis's charisma and hit tunes like 'Hound Dog' captivated the nation. His Sullivan performances significantly propelled him in fame until The Beatles' era began.

The Jackson 5

The Jackson 5, fronted by a young Michael Jackson, showcased a rare talent and charm, performing irresistible hits like 'I Want You Back'. Their appearances in 1969 and 1970 depicted them as fashion icons and phenomenal entertainers, hinting at the extraordinary career ahead, especially for Michael.

music, history, performance