Multi-talented Sammy Davis Jr. demonstrating his musical talent

On July 9, 1959, Sammy Davis Jr. hosted his first ever TV special. But he had to come to Canada to do it, right here to CBC. In the United States in the 1950s, corporate sponsors largely controlled what was seen on television. "Sponsors didn't see that a show hosted by a Black performer would be the kind of show they would want their product associated with," explained Canadian television historian Blaine Davis. "Presumably because consumers might be turned off by the association of their car or

2.7K views · 132 reactions | We are excited to see all the Sammy fans out at Forest lawn this upcoming Sunday! Come and join us to celebrate all things Sammy Davis Jr. #sammydavisjr #sammydavis #sammydavisjunior #sdj #inmemory #rip #ratpack #theratpack #music #event #forestlawn #singer #dancer #birthday | Sammy Davis Jr. | Facebook

2K views · 69 reactions | Today would have been Elvis Presley’s 90th birthday. Sammy loved and respected their friendship. Happy birthday to the King! #sammydavisjr #sammydavis #sammydavisjunior #elvis #elvispresley #theking #music #birthday #happybirthday #ratpack #theratpack #onthisday #history #friends #friendship #capitol #capitolrecords | Sammy Davis Jr. | Facebook