On November 8, 1975, David Bowie appeared on American television sets for the first time. The iconic musician chose to take part in an episode of Cher‘s prime-time variety show that aired on Sundays on CBS for his debut. Bowie performed both on his own as well as with Cher, which included an odd and interesting six and a half minute duet medley.
Bowie, who had released Young Americans earlier that year, first delivered a solo take on “Fame.” The Rock & Roll Hall of Famer then teamed up with Cher for a performance of “Can You Hear Me” from the “plastic soul” classic. Finally, the pair collaborated on jukebox medley that started and ended with “Young Americans.” In between Bowie and Cher would offer up bits of Neil Diamond’s “Song Sung Blue,” The Crystals’ “Da Doo Ron Ron,” Buddy Holly & The Crickets’ “Maybe Baby,” The Beatles’ “Day Tripper” and Bill Withers’ “Ain’t No Sunshine” along with pieces of a number of doo-wop tunes and more. Watch all three performances below:
