The Ed Sullivan Show was very saddened to learn of the passing of legendary singer Joe Cocker. From an early age, Joe was inspired by American rhythm and blues artists like Ray Charles and Chuck Berry. Joe Cocker appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show on April 27th 1969. That night, backed by his “Grease Band,” he sang a full-throated rendition of Dave Mason’s “Feelin’ Alright.” Just a few months later, Joe Cocker would appear at the Woodstock Festival, singing his now infamous cover of The Beatles “With a Little Help From My Friends.” Cocker took the straightforward rock number and turned it into a powerful and uplifting soul anthem, perfectly demonstrating his ability to make his unmistakable mark on any song he touched. His performance would become a highlight of the subsequent documentary film of the festival. A whole new generation would be reacquainted with Cocker’s version of the song when it was selected as the theme to the long running show The Wonder Years. He would go on to win a Grammy and an Oscar for his duet with Jennifer Warnes for the song “Up Where We Belong,” which was featured in the film An Officer and A Gentleman. Joe Cocker was a true talent who will be missed by music fans everywhere. Rest in peace.