The year was 1958 and the airwaves were filled with the sound of rock ‘n’ roll.
Among the chart-topping songs of the day, there was one in particular that stood out. The tune was catchy, to be sure, but was the harmonies of a duo that grabbed the nation’s attention.
The song? The Everly Brothers iconic performance of “All I Have To Do Is Dream” on the Ed Sullivan Show.
Even today, it’s hard not to get goosebumps listening to that performance.
Don and Phil Everly’s musical journey began in the coal mining towns of Kentucky.
Born into a family rich in musical tradition, they were destined for greatness.
Their parents Ike and Margaret Everly were folk and country singers, and their father was known for his unique guitar style.
The boys started performing with their parents on radio shows, and by the time they hit their teens, they were ready to take on the world.
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Fast forward to their performance on Ed Sullivan, and the world was in awe.
One viewer commented, “Legendary harmonies combined with an unforgettable song. This might be the Everly Brothers performance I’ve been looking forward to the most!”
Another added, “Brilliant harmonies. Not just on this show but every song they recorded. No one will EVER be this good again in our lifetime.”
Their performance on the show was timely.
“All I Have To Do Is Dream” was released the same month they appeared on Ed Sullivan.
The song dominated the charts, spending four weeks at #1 on Billboard’s Best Sellers Chart. And when Billboard introduced the Hot 100 in August of 1958, the song was still making waves.
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The Everly Brothers’ influence wasn’t just limited to the 50s.
A young fan remarked, “I’m turning 17 this year, such a huge Everly Brothers fan, I love them, beautiful voices and songs they created.”
Another nostalgically added, “Can we all just dream it was the 50’s all over again. What a time to be a teenager. America at its finest.”
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Their journey to stardom wasn’t without its challenges.
Before their big break with Cadence Records in 1957, they faced numerous rejections. But once they released “Bye Bye Love,” there was no looking back.
As Bob Dylan aptly put it, “We owe these guys everything. They started it all.”
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Over the years, their unique blend of country, rock & roll, bluegrass, and rockabilly won hearts worldwide.
They churned out hit after hit, and their influence on the music industry is undeniable.
From The Beatles to Simon & Garfunkel, many artists have cited The Everly Brothers as their inspiration.
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Beyond their music, the brothers had varied interests. Don had a passion for architecture and fine wine, while Phil loved vintage cars and inventing.
But their bond, both as brothers and as performers, remained unbreakable.
Even in their later years, they continued to mesmerize audiences with their unparalleled harmonies.
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This performance of “All I Have To Do Is Dream” is but one moment that, decades later, still resonates with fans young and old.
Their harmonies, their passion, and their legacy are forever enshrined in their timeless talent.
See this iconic Everly Brothers performance on the Ed Sullivan show in the video below!
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