Ep 14. Jan Peerce, Johnny Dankworth

Jan Peerce, the acclaimed tenor, and Johnny Dankworth, the famous jazz saxophonist and composer, are the guests on tonight's episode of The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. As always, Johnny Carson kicks off the show with his monologue, delivering his trademark humor and wit. He shares stories about current events and pop culture, poking fun at politicians and celebrities alike.

The first guest of the night is Jan Peerce, an American operatic tenor known for his powerful voice and emotional performances. Carson starts off the interview by asking Peerce about his background and how he got into singing. Peerce shares stories about his upbringing in New York City and how he was first introduced to opera. He also talks about some of his most memorable performances and shares anecdotes about some of the famous people he has met over the course of his career.

After the interview, Peerce performs a stirring rendition of an aria from Puccini's "La Bohème." His voice is rich and full, filling the studio with the soaring melodies of the classic opera. Carson and the audience are visibly moved by the performance, and Peerce receives a standing ovation.

Next up is Johnny Dankworth, a British jazz saxophonist and bandleader who has been a major figure in the international jazz scene since the 1950s. Carson asks Dankworth about his musical influences and the evolution of jazz over the years. Dankworth shares stories about performing with some of the great jazz musicians of the past, like Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie, and talks about how he has stayed creatively engaged over the years.

In addition to his interview, Dankworth also performs with his band, showcasing his virtuosity on the saxophone and the innovative arrangements that have earned him worldwide acclaim. Carson and the band members engage in some playful banter, displaying the lively rapport that has made The Tonight Show such a beloved institution over the years.

As always, there are also a few classic comedy sketches interspersed throughout the episode. Carson performs a hilarious routine with Ed McMahon in which they play a pair of bickering department store employees trying to make a sale, and there's also a memorable bit with a man who claims to have invented "indestructible" luggage that ends up getting smashed to pieces on stage.

Overall, this episode is a perfect example of why The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson was such a popular and enduring program. With its mix of comedy, music, and celebrity interviews, it was the perfect showcase for some of the biggest names in entertainment, and Johnny Carson's affable charm and quick wit made him a beloved figure for decades. If you're a fan of classic television, this episode is a must-watch.