Frank Ifield brought his smooth crooning and signature yodel to The Ed Sullivan Show in 1963, delighting audiences with his rendition of “I Remember You”. This Australian-British sensation had already topped the charts with the song, and his live performance showcased why.
Ifield’s silky vocals filled the studio as he effortlessly glided through the romantic lyrics. His control was impeccable, hitting both deep baritone notes and soaring falsettos with equal ease. That trademark yodel added a unique flair that set him apart from other pop singers of the era.
The song itself was originally written by Victor Schertzinger and Johnny Mercer back in 1941. Ifield’s 1962 version gave it new life, shooting to #1 in the UK and reaching #5 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. His smooth delivery and that distinctive yodel turned it into a signature hit.
A voice that could melt hearts and shatter glass.
Watching Ifield perform, you can’t help but be struck by his poise and polish. Dressed in a sharp suit, he stands tall and confident, letting that golden voice do all the work. His eyes twinkle as he croons the romantic lyrics, no doubt making hearts flutter across America.
The arrangement is simple but effective, letting Ifield’s vocals shine. A gentle instrumental backing provides the perfect foundation for his voice to soar. When he launches into those high notes, it’s truly spine-tingling.
I’d heard this song on the radio plenty of times, but seeing Ifield perform it live was something else. The way he effortlessly slid between his lower register and that ethereal falsetto was mesmerizing. And that final sustained note – wow! Talk about ending on a high.
This performance cemented Ifield as a true vocal powerhouse. In just two minutes, he showed why he’d become an international star. That blend of crooner smoothness and country-tinged yodeling was utterly unique, leaving a mark on The Ed Sullivan Show that would be remembered alongside the greatest moments in the program’s storied history.
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Like and share this slice of 60s magic with your friends because Frank Ifield’s golden pipes will transport you straight back to the good old days.
