About the song
On February 9, 1964, The Beatles made television history with their electrifying performance of “I Want to Hold Your Hand” on *The Ed Sullivan Show*. This momentous appearance marked the beginning of what is now famously known as the “British Invasion,” a cultural phenomenon that reshaped the American music landscape and left an indelible mark on popular culture.
“I Want to Hold Your Hand,” a quintessential Beatles track, was released as a single in the United States on December 26, 1963. Written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, the song quickly became a defining anthem of the era. It showcased The Beatles’ infectious energy and melodic prowess, and it struck a chord with audiences across the globe. The single achieved remarkable success, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for seven consecutive weeks and becoming one of the band’s most iconic hits.
The performance on *The Ed Sullivan Show* was a significant milestone for The Beatles, broadcast to an estimated 73 million viewers, a record audience at the time. Their appearance not only introduced American audiences to their charming personalities and innovative sound but also set the stage for their subsequent success in the U.S. and around the world. The energy and enthusiasm of their live performance were palpable, with the band members—John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr—delivering a high-energy rendition that captivated viewers and solidified their place in music history.
The Ed Sullivan Show was known for featuring a diverse array of acts, but The Beatles’ debut was a cultural turning point. The show’s influence and the widespread excitement surrounding The Beatles’ performance contributed to the broader phenomenon of Beatlemania, which saw the band become one of the most influential and beloved musical acts of all time.
For fans of The Beatles and enthusiasts of classic rock, this live performance of “I Want to Hold Your Hand” remains a cherished historical artifact. It captures the exuberance of the early 1960s and the revolutionary impact that The Beatles had on the music industry. As you watch this historic performance, you’re not just witnessing a moment in time but experiencing the birth of a global musical revolution.
Video
Lyrics
Oh, yeah, I’ll tell you somethin’
I think you’ll understand
When I say that somethin’
I want to hold your hand
I want to hold your hand
I want to hold your hand
Oh, please, say to me
You’ll let me be your man
And please, say to me
You’ll let me hold your hand
You’ll let me hold your hand
I want to hold your hand
And when I touch you
I feel happy inside
It’s such a feelin’ that my love
I can’t hide
I can’t hide
I can’t hide
Yeah, you got that somethin’
I think you’ll understand
When I say that somethin’
I want to hold your hand
I want to hold your hand
I want to hold your hand
And when I touch you
I feel happy inside
It’s such a feelin’ that my love
I can’t hide
I can’t hide
I can’t hide
Yeah, you got that somethin’
I think you’ll understand
When I feel that somethin’
I want to hold your hand
I want to hold your hand
I want to hold your hand
I want to hold your hand