The 1968 TV Moment Nobody Saw Coming

On March 5, 1968, the legendary pianist and entertainer Liberace appeared on The Red Skelton Hour, performing "The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin' Groovy)," originally made famous by Simon & Garfunkel. Surrounded by singers and dancers, colorful flower-power costumes, and psychedelic decorations, Liberace enthusiastically embraces the swinging spirit of the 1960s. The result is a wonderfully unusual combination of old-fashioned television variety entertainment and the emerging hippie culture of the late 1960s. • Performer: Liberace • Song: The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin' Groovy) • Television Program: The Red Skelton Hour • Original Broadcast: March 5, 1968 • Songwriter: Paul Simon • Original Recording: Simon & Garfunkel (1966) Born Władziu Valentino Liberace in 1919, Liberace became one of America's most recognizable entertainers. Famous for his extraordinary piano playing, extravagant costumes, sparkling jewelry, and larger-than-life personality, he was a television sensation during the 1950s, 1960s, and beyond. Written by Paul Simon, "The 59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin' Groovy)" first appeared on Simon & Garfunkel's 1966 album Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme. Liberace's version takes the song in an entirely different direction, turning it into a colorful television production complete with singing, dancing, and plenty of showbiz enthusiasm. It's a fascinating little time capsule of American television entertainment in 1968. #Liberace #RedSkelton #1960s #VintageTV #ClassicTelevision