The David Frost Show: 1969-1972

The David Frost Show debuted in the U.S. in 1969 and lasted until 1972. It was broadcast in color from New York and was produced by Westinghouse's Group W Productions for syndication, airing three days a week. What made the show special, in addition to featuring an intelligent host, was the diversity of guests and their performances. What's more, Billy Taylor was the show's bandleader, with arrangements by Ralph Carmichael and others. Under Taylor's direction, the band remains one of the finest to back any talk show.

Recently, clips from the show have been uploaded to YouTube. I combed through the lot and pulled 10 that were exceptional:

Here's Stan Kenton in June 1970 playing a magnificent Artistry in Rhythm...



Here's Burt Bacharach singing his composition Alfie in August 1969...



Here's Astrud Gilberto singing The Girl From Ipanema in July 1969...



Here's Glen Campbell singing Gentle on My Mind in May 1970...



Here's Thelma Houston singing This Is Your Life in October 1969...



Here's Nancy Wilson singing This Girl Is a Woman Now in May 1970...



Here's Blossom Dearie singing her song Hey John, a tribute to John Lennon, with whom she had become friendly in London, in May 1971...



Here's Jerry “The Ice Man" Butler singing Moody Woman in September 1969...



Here's Dearie singing Paul Simon's The 59th Street Bridge Song, also known as Feelin' Groovy, in May 1971...



And saving the best for last, here's the ever-cool Julie London singing Makiin' Whoopie, a dated song that she turns into a gem with a knockout arrangement...