Sonny Bono stayed up late in his basement one night in 1965 to write a song that proved Bob Dylan wrong. He was tired of the cynical music on the radio and wanted to prove that love could still win. The result was a gold record that sold one million copies in just months and turned two backup singers into global icons.
You have to see this original 1965 footage to witness the moment their lives changed forever. This performance is not just a song. It is the birth of the hippie movement in a three minute pop track. The music features a classical oboe sound. The sound creates a haunting melody that stays with you.
Watch the full video below:
Sonny & Cher – I Got You Babe (Top Of The Pops 1965)
Fans who lived through this era still get chills when the drums kick in. One viewer said that seeing them on screen felt like the world finally changed from black and white to color. Another person noted that Cher’s deep voice was so different from other female singers that it gave everyone permission to be unique
That 1965 appearance in England was the spark that lit a fire across the ocean. They went from being folk rock rebels to the most famous couple in America almost overnight. Their success on the charts opened the door for them to walk onto the most famous stage in New York City for a performance that solidified their legend.
Sonny & Cher “I Got You Babe” on The Ed Sullivan Show
When they arrived at The Ed Sullivan Show, they brought that same basement magic to a much larger audience. Sonny wore his striped pants and famous bowl cut while Cher held the microphone with total poise. was the moment they stopped being a duo and became a part of American history.
Sonny and Cher showed us that you do not need much to make it if you have someone by your side. They paved the way for every musical duo that came after them by just being themselves. Their journey reminds us of the power of a simple melody and a true bond. Follow Cher on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.