American Bandstand 1968 – Spotlight Dance - Jimmy Mack, Martha and the Vandellas

Airdate: August 17, 1968 It’s the 11th Anniversary Show (thus the cake). Our Spotlight dancers today are Michael Williams & Barbara Ralston, Mark Grimiski & Bonnie Goetrel, and Carol Hildebrandt with long-time regular Frank Vanderpuil. Holland-Dozier-Hollands’ “Jimmy Mack” peaked at #10 in April last year (1967). It was recorded in 1964 but was shelved until it was finally heard by Berry Gordy in 1967. When he first heard it Gordy said “Get this thing ready to go out right away….This is a damn hit record.” With so many soldiers going off to Vietnam by ’67, the song had taken on a whole new meaning. Jimmy “Mack” McDowell was an Indianapolis broadcast icon in the 60’s and 70’s. He was a popular DJ on several radio stations and, as Dick mentions, hosted a Bandstand-like show, “Bandstand 13”, from 1965 to 1969. In the news, next week, Aug. 26, the infamous 1968 Democratic National Convention will begin in Chicago. After days of chaos and riots, The Democratic Party will nominate Hubert Humphrey for President. Need a little more 1968? Practice your “Tighten Up” and join us next week for the Oct. 12, 1968 full episode!