The stage is set, the lights are bright, and the atmosphere is electric. It is February 12, 1967, and The Young Rascals are about to create television history on The Ed Sullivan Show. A new release of this rare video footage sends us back to that momentous night, presenting an era of music that is still relevant today. The band commands attention as soon as they enter the stage.
Eddie Brigati plays the tambourine, providing rhythmic zest to the band. Gene Cornish is a sight to behold on his guitar, his fingers smoothly gliding across the strings. Then there’s Dino Danelli on drums, delivering beats that make your heart thump in unison. And, of course, Felix Cavaliere at the piano, expertly combining keys and voices in a performance that is nothing short of breathtaking. When the “Mickey’s Monkey/Love Lights” medley begins, the crowd is quickly captivated. The atmosphere is obvious, and the excitement contagious.
Eddie’s dance routines are a flash of energy that capture the spirit of the moment. Meanwhile, Gene’s guitar talents are not only exceptional; they are a monument to the era’s musical greatness. And let’s not forget Dino, who provides a solid foundation for the songs that keep everyone moving. Felix, multitasking like a genuine maestro, fills the audience with his powerful voice and glides his fingers across the piano keyboard.
The “Mickey’s Monkey” choice for their performance is very noteworthy. The song was originally a smash for the Miracles in 1963 and was written by Motown’s famed trio of Brian Holland, Lamont Dozier, and Eddie Holland. The Rascals’ version is more than just a cover; it’s a monument to R&B heritage that is greatly appreciated, adding their own spin to Smokey Robinson’s excellent tune.
On the other side, “Love Light,” originally titled “Turn on Your Love Light,” was a notable hit from their debut album Collections. This album was the first time the band demonstrated their songwriting abilities, with six songs written by band members.
This appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show was more than just another concert for The Young Rascals. Everything came together perfectly: the music, the audience, and the ambiance. It depicted a time when rock and soul fused to produce something beautiful. Their effect on rock and soul music is indisputable, and their admittance into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1997 demonstrates their ongoing presence on the music industry.
So, share this video because it’s more than simply a performance; it’s a trip back in time, an opportunity to relive an age when music was heard and experienced. It’s a throwback to the days when The Young Rascals combined rock and soul, leaving an everlasting stamp on music history.