Watch The Band’s Iconic “Up On Cripple Creek” Performance on The Ed Sullivan Show

The members of The Band, a Canadian-American roots rock band formed at the end of the ‘50s under the leadership of American Rockabilly vocalist Ronnie Hawkins, were J.R. “Robbie” Robertson, Richard Manuel, Garth Hudson, Rick Danko, and Levon Helm. The band found success after striking out on their own in 1965 when they caught Bob Dylan’s ear.  They were hired as Dylan’s supporting band for his 1965–1966 worldwide tour, during which he made the controversial transition from acoustic folk music to electric rock & roll.

Then, on November 2, 1969, The Band made their lone appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show. In his introduction, Ed Sullivan said, “Here are the new recording sensation for youngsters, The Band!” That night they were the opening act, and they started out with their smash single “Up on Cripple Creek.” They did only perform one song for the night, but it showcased their talents as a fantastic group. “I want to tell you how delighted we are with you,” Sullivan told The Band after performing.

Check out The Band’s performance of “Up on Cripple Creek” below.