In 1969, amidst a time of political and social upheaval in the United States, Vikki Carr graced the stage of The Ed Sullivan Show to perform “With Pen In Hand”. The performance occurred on May 4th, 1969, a year marked by the Vietnam War and the civil rights movement. But Vikki Carr brought hope and joy to American households nationwide that night.
Carr was a Mexican-American singer who went to the top of the charts in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Her voice was sultry and soulful, and her performances were filled with passion and energy. She was a perfect fit for The Ed Sullivan Show, a program celebrating diversity and talent from all walks of life.
The audience applauded as Carr took the stage, dressed in a glittering gown. The song “With Pen In Hand” is a ballad about a woman writing a letter to her lover, explaining that she must leave him behind. Carr’s performance was a masterclass in emotion and expression, as she sang the lyrics with heartfelt sincerity.
One of the things that makes this performance so special is how it captures a moment in time. The song itself is nostalgic, evoking the feeling of a bygone era. But it’s also a snapshot of a particular point in American history. The lyrics are about making difficult choices and moving on, themes that resonated with people all across the country at that moment.
Another reason this performance stands out is how Carr puts her spin on the song. She infuses it with a sense of urgency and longing, making it feel fresh and new. Her voice is powerful but also vulnerable and tender. It’s a testament to her skill as a performer that she can convey so much emotion in just a few minutes on stage.
Of course, it’s not just Vikki Carr’s performance that makes this video so special. It’s also the context in which it was presented. The Ed Sullivan Show was a cultural touchstone, and being invited to perform on it was a huge honor. For many artists, appearing on the show was a career-defining moment; for viewers at home, it was a chance to see their favorite performers up close and personal.
But this performance’s remarkable is how well it has aged. Even over 50 years later, the song and the performance still resonate with audiences. It’s a testament to the enduring power of music and how it can capture a moment in time and make it last forever.
As for Vikki Carr herself, she’s still performing to this day. She’s won multiple Grammy Awards and has been inducted into the Latin Grammy Hall of Fame. She also advocates for several charitable causes, including the United Cerebral Palsy Association and the American Heart Association. Her career has been long and illustrious, but this performance on The Ed Sullivan Show remains a high point.
One interesting tidbit about “With Pen In Hand” is that it was written by the country music songwriter Bobby Goldsboro. Goldsboro was best known for his hit songs like “Honey” and “Summer (The First Time)”, but he also wrote for other artists. “With Pen In Hand” was one of his most successful compositions, and it’s been covered by several other singers over the years.
The performance of “With Pen In Hand” by Vikki Carr on The Ed Sullivan Show is a true classic. It captures a moment in time and a feeling of nostalgia while showcasing the incredible talent of one of the greatest singers of her generation. If you haven’t seen the video, check it out on YouTube and share it with your friends. Because even though it’s over 50 years old, this performance still has the power to move and inspire audiences today. It’s a reminder of the enduring power of music and how great performances can transcend time and space to touch the hearts of people worldwide. So hit that share button and spread the joy of Vikki Carr’s unforgettable performance on The Ed Sullivan Show.
