Johnny Cash, one of the most celebrated singers of all time, hosted a hit television show in the 1970s, where he welcomed live performances from various bands. On November 5, 1970, Derek and the Dominos made a special appearance as the musical guests. At that time, Eric Clapton was still part of the band before achieving solo success.
The quality of this decades-old recording sounds surprisingly modern, capturing the band’s stellar performances. They kicked things off with “It’s Too Late,” featuring Clapton and his bandmates, before Johnny Cash joined them for a spirited rendition of “Matchbox.”
After the concert, Johnny interviewed Clapton, and they discussed how American blues artists had a profound impact on the sound of British bands. Clapton explained that there wasn’t much music in Britain, so they sought out recordings from the U.S. Johnny also expressed his delight at how warmly the audience received the band.
Then, in a delightful twist, Clapton invited a surprise guest—Carl Perkins, one of the greatest blues musicians of all time, to join them. Perkins took the stage, and the crowd went wild as they performed “Matchbox” together. The blend of electric and acoustic guitars created an unforgettable sound.
Though Johnny Cash appeared modest and reserved throughout the event, it was heartwarming to see him join in with the band and Carl Perkins. The video showcases two tracks, and while it begins with the performance featuring Cash, Clapton fans will definitely want to rewind to catch the entire set.