Sam appeared on The Tonight Show in February of 1964 to perform “Basin Street Blues” and a new track he had written called “A Change Is Gonna Come.” Only footage of him performing “Basin Street Blues” from that night survived. #BlackHistoryMonth #BHM | Sam Cooke

In 1964, Sam lit up the legendary Copacabana in New York City with a residency that redefined his career. From June 24 through July 8, the once a segregated venue became a platform for his quiet activism. This wasn’t just a concert — it was a cultural moment that spawned one of the most iconic live albums of all time. 📸 Ben Martin | Sam Cooke