Rodriguez Performs "Crucify Your Mind" | Letterman

[@lifestyles2482]

Today. Today I found out. About him, about the movie, about his music. He got to see what many did not. So many in their times couldn’t sell their art. We’re unknowns. So many we love now. But he got to feel it. For himself and for them.

[@kimtodd1202]

I play his music as much now as i did in the 70's. He has always been more appreciated in the alternate scene then the commercial. I was sad to hear of his passing, i'm so glad for him that he found out just how much people loved his work before he shuffled off this mortal coil. His music will live on and find new audiences i'm sure. A beautiful man, beautiful music.

[@22Phantasm]

I lived in South Africa in the 80s when his music was so popular. We obviously didn't know his life story then, but Searchin For Sugarman gave us a lot of answers. RIP, Sixto.

[@KOSMICKEN09]

I got to see him live a few times here in Michigan - huge fan

[@lisaandrews1430]

Saw him live in Perth Western Australia on a lovely warm evening in the beautiful Kings Park. What a memorable performance. Stunning voice and guitarist. Humble and grounded. RIP and thanks for the music x

[@louisevanderlinde8590]

Fellow South African here. Great singer, exceptional movie.

[@peetsnort]

Me too. Now I'm 64 next month

[@detroyt232323]

I grew up 5 mins from Sixto. Just part of the amazing legacy of our city of automobiles and amazing music. You're welcome 😎🎸

[@Fredrikstbye]

This brings me to tears. Such a humble and brilliant musician with an amazing story. Rock in peace, Sugar Man.

[@fifermcgee5971]

Me too, if he were white in the late sixties he would have been promoted however, the ugly head of racism arose and he was discarded like the daily trash. Pity, real pity as the world lost years of entertainment from this raw jewel. RIP good man. Thank you to the chaps in South Africa who sought him out and told the tragic story.

[@Oscoe63]

​@@fifermcgee5971I'm a little leary that race played into the lack of his album's success in U.S. (remember: his record producer, Clarence Avant, was black). I just think that by the late 60's/early 70's the U.S. market for Rock, Pop, and Soul music was so unbelievably saturated, that getting any kind of airplay for new acts was a huge challenge. Even fellow-Detroiter Bob Seger - who was putting out some good stuff during this time period - went largely ignored nationally until ~'76. I think Rodriguez probably just threw in the towell too soon after failure of his 2nd album. Most artists have to be incredibly persistent before their work gets recognized. But thank God the South Africans finally brought him to our attention via this awesome twist of fate and the imternet!

[@Hexon66]

@@Oscoe63 He'd been playing in Australia for years before the documentary. He hadn't just disappeared. Granted, pre-internet, it would have been hard to keep track of him.

[@sebaldc.2681]

@@Hexon66 Why does letterman give the man a hand twice? When i see letterman, i see a weird person .... never trusted him, but he's a comedian.

[@everythingcool101]

@@Oscoe63 id have to agree with you on that. Race had nothing to do with it. if Race did have something to do with it then how did some of the greats like B.B King and others become famous throughout the 60s in America?

[@dougggiereid]

In the 70's he was bigger than Elvis in South Africa. He was always in my cassette tape box in my car and on my records player in my room. Was a huge privilege to see him live in Cape Town, the highlight of all concerts I went to. He was so humble. He came down off the stage and walked around shaking hands with us in the audience. What a pleasure. What a kick! Nobody made music anywhere close to his.

[@stanleygohome4869]

beautiful thanks for sharing

[@luisgerardoaylaslimaylla1856]

Que hermosas palabras amigo.... Y si... era el keanu reves de loS musica... .. SUPER HUMILDE...

[@Babaziba]

I'm so glad he found out how loved he is.

[@THEBATMANCOSTUMECHANNELANDMORE]

RIGHT!

[@PapaOsmubal.OscarBalajadia]

True!

[@did67lejardinier42]

The most remarkable thing in this video is that when Letterman greets him, at the end, Rodriguez, although he begins to be recognized as "a star", takes off his hat. As any humble person would. Like a farmer would do. Like the labourer he was would...

[@fischiwien]

Like a person with manners

[@gravysopper]

I noticed that, too. Exceptional human being.

[@jamesfestini]

They don’t make them like they used to

[@RonaidCoghlan]

That's a great observation.

[@paulrummery6905]

Or a gent with self respect and manners.

[@garywelsh9466]

RIP Great music South Africa will never forget you..

[@johanboettcher2331]

We love you Rodriguez!!!!!!!!

[@peterjordaan1688]

Huge part of the soundtrack of 80's and 90's in South Africa. At 65 this brings tears of nostalgia. What a beautiful humble man.

[@hassetjifrebro8222]

He wont be forgotten. From bars to a stoner group, you'll hear them tell his story and share his songs. All the way from America, to South africa and even the far north of europe.

[@kevinkirkland4577]

The thinking man's Dylan. Rodriguez was always famous here in Australia both his albums were number 1. He toured here years before he went to south Africa. The movie is a bit fast n loose with the facts and leaves out his Australian history. Still a great doco. I will forever cherish my signed copy of cold fact, and meeting him😢😢😢😢

[@1hbarrios27]

Interesante, entonces el hizo conciertos en Australia antes de ser descubierto por loa Sudafricanos?, que buen dato acabas de dar.

[@laurencesiegel9362]

Dylan is also the thinking man's Dylan. Two of the greatest musicians of my lifetime.

[@buretto66]

@@laurencesiegel9362 The OP's just trying to be edgy, too cool for the rest of use.

[@vs52217]

Notice how he thanked the musicians first before greeting Dave. Such a good, kind man.

[@pamelahay6242]

From what I’ve been told by someone who spent time with him, he was a humble man.

[@rname879]

Thanks for mentioning this I never noticed that what a great guy and incredible story!

[@dannyo4175]

If humble has a face it was certainly Rodriguez's, RIP beautiful soul 🙏🏾

[@markyncole]

Then took his hat off in respect to shake Dave's hand.

[@RodolfGaona-um8wy]

And he takes off his hat,when he talks to letterman! Respectful man

[@mdr9738]

I DId NOT KNOW he passed!😭Sweet Soul,Great Spirit! Rest In Paradise Sir! You are and were APPRECIATED By ME!Farewell on your journey.”

[@c.c.lilford2916]

Rest in Peace to a true poet, sail on Sugarman!

[@ca9968]

On August the 8th, 2023, another piece of South Africa`s soul died...RIP Sixto and RIP South Africa...

[@wesdoyle209]

RIP

[@HanifBarnwell]

Thank you Dave and team for republishing this masterpiece performance

[@madazza]

I'm so happy he found out he was loved around the world by thousands of fan's! Love from Australia r.i.p Sixto

[@reychafamex9450]

Proud to call you a fellow Chicano. Santana, Ronstadt, Rodriguez, some of the best music I have EVER heard, transcends nationalities. Rest easy brother, descansa en paz.

[@nowelaZA]

Thank you for lending him to us South Africans. He was our hero too.

[@AlbertoRodriguez-nd8di]

Don't forget Ritchie Valenz who was only 17 years old when he passed away.

[@carlbenson6780]

What about Selena Quintanilla, she would have been huge

[@eldon.phukuile]

During my high school years in South Africa (circa 1994), this man WAS IT ALL for the cool kids!!

[@robdotcom71]

I'm in Australia and a neighbor put on the Cold Fact album and my jaw dropped....

[@1pixman]

I am from New Zealand and had Cold Shot when it was released. It was very popular in NZ.

[@peetsnort]

Even in 94... Amazing

[@wilyinfidel1091]

There were no cool kids in South Africa in 1994, or any other time.

[@peetsnort]

@@wilyinfidel1091 apart from you that is

[@shmutzydawg]

Genius!! We all miss you brother

[@danielviramontes3012]

This man changed my life, I was 16 (now I’m 27) when I watched the doc and was struck in such a profound way. His writing is beautiful, this song especially! He Inspires me everyday to be the best and kindest version of myself. Truly a man with a gift. I’ll remember him forever.

[@phishfan]

Just discovered him last week from a radio report about his passing, and they played two songs. I sat there totally mesmerized at the beauty and strength of his writing and watched the film over the weekend- spent yesterday and today listening over and over to all of his output. RIP to an astonishing songwriting genius. What a gift.

[@brucechellan]

Probably one of the greatest artists of our time ❤❤

[@sirenloud]

I just discovered him like 5 minutes ago because of a KZbin short of Joe Rogan

[@tylerumberger3326]

@@sirenloud 😂😂 me too literally maybe 10 min ago the short with him n post Malone 😂 I tried to watch the movie but I dunno if I wanna buy it yet im sure it's worth it tho

[@RodolfGaona-um8wy]

I watched this performance 8 months ago,and I've been hooked! A masterpiece!

[@phishfan]

@@tylerumberger3326 Do it! It's prpbably the best music documentary I've ever seen. INCREDIBLE story- I've watched it twice now.

[@rosspittman1916]

"Searching for Sugarman" is my all-time favorite documentary. Rodriguez was such an amazing and beautiful soul. RIP.

[@ytzpilot]

I’m so glad he got to perform on Letterman in the Ed Sullivan Theatre just like many other of the greatest musicians, this was one of his best

[@productivitybydesign9368]

Everybody my age in South Africa had this album in the house. Still do and still enjoy it just as much. RIP Sixto

[@jeffreyphillips7312]

absolutely unbelievable...and couldn't have happened to a nicer more humble human

[@insatiabletraveler2929]

I am so very grateful to have seen "Searching for the Sugar Man" - a very moving documentary, which prompted me to fly to Seattle to see Rodriquez live. Brilliant concert in a small venue and one of my favorite highlights in life. Sixto was lovely, gentle, grateful, humble and a very talented man. I pray that the last few years of his life allowed him to see how much he was appreciated and loved. Fortunately, I live near Detroit and visit his neighborhood frequently....which he is honored by a huge mural....long live the spirt of the Sugar Man!

[@NiallsSongs]

Searching for sugar man is a story I’ll never forget. Seeing it was a transformational experience. Rodriguez is a legend and a hero of epic stature. We don’t even deserve people of that calibre.

[@Bornelvibe]

I know I'm a little late to the party but I just watched this movie and it is incredible I just read that he died in 2023 what a phenomenal story and man❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@africamike]

University in South Africa in the early '80's.......Rodriguez was huge......RIP Sugar Man! Gone but never forgotten. Thank you for the music!

[@brianschwartz5673]

I know you

[@longwayaround7767]

I first learned of this movie off Netflix. Amazon is the only place you can purchase it now. I made that purchase. Having been born right outside Detroit in 1958, and moved to the southwest in 1969, I had never heard Rodriguez. This is a must see movie! The music is great, Rodriguez is wonderful, and to learn so many decades later his music played a major role in South Africa's apartheid is astounding. It is the BEST movie to restore your faith in humankind with the once in a lifetime chance to see him play many concerts decades later. It is my go to movie when things in life are rough going. I do not believe anyone will not be moved by Rodriguez's story and music. The world lost an amazing man and talent today. My sincerest condolences to his family and friends.

[@mannybravo237]

Yes, S Africa thou, I looked up the vlog from CNN I seen during covid lockdown

[@longwayaround7767]

@@mannybravo237 Thank you for catching my error. I corrected it to read as it should.

[@productivitybydesign9368]

His music had nothing to do with apartheid. We all recognized how different Rodriquez was and how he connected with his audience through his words.

[@mannybravo237]

@@productivitybydesign9368 for the generation that experience suppression in SA, they found entertainment and 'deliverance' thru his soul touching music, maybe an escapism to help them all survive their struggles

[@longwayaround7767]

@@productivitybydesign9368 Then why are those in South Africa claiming his music was the anthem songs that brought about the end of aperthied? Their interviews. Their words. Not mine. You got some explaining to do Lucy

[@jurgen889]

The most humble man ever, so much respect. He was greater than Elvis in South Africa, grew up with his music and EVERYONE had his music. RIP Sixto, your gracious soul lives on. Much love.

[@jvs333]

So happy he got to experience how much he was loved and valued by the world before his death. RIP Mr. SIXTO RODRIGUEZ

[@luisvillar8320]

Love the way he thanks the musicians at the end.

[@carlosl-f2433]

Brings tears to my eyes...what a story. Cold fact was my teenage years in SA...RIP Sixto.

[@mannybravo237]

That was warm🥲...I remember catching a vlog a few years back on how a Detroit rock star found out he was a HUGH success in S Africa, then his popularity exploded worldwide! How cool was that! Thank you for your talent and music, Rodriguez🙏🏼 R I P 🕯

[@nigelsilver4251]

A gifted and down to earth human being and a beautiful and precious soul returned to paradise.

[@phillipsmerchantband]

An absolutely wonderful brilliant musician! Dave has always had a great ear for true musicians.

[@rsgabrys----]

---------------------- as did Vinny van Gogh .....for self painted portraits....no?....

[@jeffmitchell9702]

Thank you for posting this, Dave. Rodriguez was a humble man with extraordinary gifts and a beautiful spirit. I'm so thankful to see him play live in April 2013, enjoy his albums, and watch "Searching for Sugar Man" (several times), the best documentary that I've ever seen. R.I.P. Sixto Diaz Rodriguez.

[@Sc0ttyb33]

RIP dude, ive listened to this mans music snce the 80's my chidren were bought up with this man playing from time to time, and they are now almost grown and fully respect this music, humble to the end too!! with everything going left field in the world today, they could all take a page out of this guys book!!

[@thayliamills2094]

May you rock the heavens Sixto! I'm so glad for the South African fans that kept you and your music alive. And for the film Searching For Sugar Man, so we here in his own country could catch up to become your fan too.

[@pedroprieto5425]

One of the most fascinating stories in popular music. Even as this rendition of Crucify your Mind brings me to tears, I thank David Letterman because he pushed the envelope in his program for so many years. He gave his platform to artists when they were not considered mainstream such as Ben Harper. The last time I saw Billy Preston was in his program playing with the wonderful band of Paul Shaffer. Only Letterman could have recognized the importance of Rodriguez with such a beautiful homage.

[@abiarimusic8484]

😢😢😢que hermoso canta hou descubri su historia,y ahora escucharlo cantar , realmente es unico

[@markyncole]

Finally got the recognition he truly deserved.

[@holly-bg6yf]

This is wild!! I’m obsessed!

[@joshuadowling8778]

Finally. Recognized.

[@AlexF993]

I played the violin for 12 years, and moved on to things I’m more interested in and I’m happy. But I still have a musician’s eye, and I can tell, from the way Sixto moves his right hand on the guitar, that he played with a confidence and expertise that comes to musicians by only one way: decades of obsession-fueled practice. Bravo maestro. Bravo.

[@annaJ00]

I discovered him on holiday in Spain in 2015. Wonderful man, genius songwriter. Love him. RIP. QEPD.

[@genghis_connie]

This was a great documentary! This arrangement is spectacular. His vocals are a little drowned out.

[@YuckFoutube-e1z]

Sound engineer sucked ass.

[@ylaimoday2076]

I was just planning to meet this man. There is sooo much about him that I wanted to experience his presence. Very few people worth admiration and genuine nobility. Rest in peace and you will be forever in my heart.😢

[@1TheAmarok1]

AN AMAZING TALENT AND YET SO HUMBLE. MAY HE REST IN PEACE.

[@lobitome]

R. I. P. Sixto, what a legend.

[@nuvonuvohair346]

Went to see Rodrigues in Sydney last time he was in Australia loveley man great concert RIP

[@Atthealter]

Please keep discovering him he is worth it!!!

[@affordit]

I was introduced to his music by my South African flatmates, such a wonderful talent and so down to earth and humble, I hope you have a special place in heaven RIP Sixto Rodriguez.

[@Warp75]

Rest in peace Sixto ✌🏻

[@bambukoinnovations]

Tears can't help but break through my eyes. Your music hits me like conscience would, a soul whisper. Your story and poetry became a part of who I am. 'Cause' is my favorite, but 'Silver Words' got me the girl. You are one of my prophets, and there are only a handful of them. Too bad I never got to see you live. Thank you, dear Sixto. Your music will be sang by my kids, and I know for sure, my future grand kids. Sending my warmth to Sandra, Eva, and Regan. From the Philippines.

[@cherylteixeira7574]

Love you comment ❤

[@johnorenstein741]

Nice song good story teller godbless

[@justice1902]

I remember these tunes playing on many little radios all over Army bases in South Africa in the 1980's and 1990's. Thank you for the beuatiful thought provoking lyrics Sixto. You are a legend and we will miss you.

[@kimijonghighball9626]

I just discovered this guy yesterday. I can’t believe that he never made it here in America. I listened to this song only 4or 5 times and I don’t know but it’s very emotional to me. 😢

[@geneeckert7151]

In the early 70's he had a big following in Rhodesia. His LP 'Coldfact"was played at most Discos and parties❤

[@gail4788]

Rip Rodriguez. Your music will still live on. Love you

[@noblshtplz]

Loved this man...his inner light glows like a lantern...a beautiful talent ❤🎵🎵🎶🎶

[@lukewarmaus]

I got to meet him at Bluesfest Australia in 2007. Such a kind and humble man. His music was the soundtrack to some of my best memories as a young kid. So glad he got the recognition he deserved, his story really is amazing.

[@happybumblebeeproduction3612]

Agree with @Fredrikstbye. The tears will come when I see Rodriguez. What we do creates ripples in the water, even if we don't believe it or know when it happens. Let love reign. That is my wish in this life.Truth and love will win! Always!

[@jetsamperes5762]

Letterman has done thousands of shows -with countless musical guests - the fact that he remembers them all and posted this today to honor Rodriguez is what a true professional he is.

[@jhk22]

Don Giller deserves a lot of credit, catalogued every show from 1980-2015.

[@spangalang]

Pretty sure Dave's not the guy running the KZbin channel.

[@sebastian6736]

I appreciate the spirit behind this comment but you can't possibly be this naive. Letterman had nothing at all to do with this upload.

[@smokinnplatez1426]

Why the negativity let's just appreciate that he was honored

[@aniyaruffin3288]

Is it negativity or the stating of a fact

[@terrycox2063]

Always a memory maker and that is a "cold fact" I wonder was the kick starter for me, songs with a message!!

[@michaelj.r457]

In addition to Rodriguez's performance. I am always drawn to how passionate Dave introduces him. He clearly was a fan of the guy. He introduces Rodriguez as if he were Warren Zevon, and if you are a Late Show fan, you will know that I can't say a higher compliment than that.

[@johnhanover2229]

Way ahead of his time. How no one in America knew of him is a shame.

[@howardblasingame7961]

Bible: A Prophet is never welcomed in his home town.

[@belindaschafer1593]

​@@howardblasingame7961true words❤🎉

[@lunardelusions2657]

I learned of him through an American DJ, so not entirely unknown.

[@scee1871]

Amazing talent.

[@raymondrochajr9621]

I've never heard of this man or his music. But I really enjoyed his song! I will give a listen to his other tunes. Can't wait. RIP 🙏

[@s.p.8803]

You have to watch the documentary about him. You'll understand why you never heard of him.

[@raymondrochajr9621]

@@s.p.8803 Thanks.

[@helenfield7363]

Thank you for your poetry to music. RIP RODRIGUEZ💔

[@gttim]

I got to see him 3 times in concert! His music and story fascinated me. The music industry will rip everything off from everybody if given the chance. I wish his life had been easier.

[@theresas14]

That's what makes it sad to me

[@sicks6six]

they say fact is stranger than fiction, you better believe it, what a life story, did he ever for one minute when he walked the cold wet streets of Detroit ever think he was so big outside the USA. . . RIP Sugarman

[@HandbagDiva]

He was 70 years old & still sounded great

[@danhoppus9551]

What an absolute legend. Music lost one of its brightest writers.

[@tonycantu3491]

Glad we were able to find you again, Sugar Man. Rest in peace. 😢

[@vjrei]

Live music brings tears. Imagine all those people, each one doing their tiny part to perfection to put together all that magic.

[@seanlynch1120]

I grew up listening to Rodriguez from my dad in Australia, I’m 30 now, something about him is just so unique and he just had this aura around him, probably to do with his backstory and the fact he was content living a hermit for lack of a better word, lifestyle

[@SandraPione]

Thank you beloved Sixto Rodríguez for all your talented music. Thank you Sugar man. Rest in peace. We love you forever!!!

[@mrcartease]

Remember my dad playing his songs and singing along in the 80s…🇿🇦🙏🏻RIP

[@andreasrausch5552]

Such a sad day! Rodriguez and Robbie Robertson. This is such a great song. Rest in peace, Rodriguez, the one and only Sugar man.

[@matilijapoppy1140]

yes, my thoughts, exactly. rodriguez and robertson, and my best friend passed on august 9 in 77. my little sister passed away early this morning. beautiful souls and gifted - every one of them. 🕊️

[@pamelahay6242]

Your little sister will be in good company. Condolences to you on your family loss. 🌹

[@matilijapoppy1140]

@pamelahay, thank you for your kind reply.

[@andreasrausch5552]

@@matilijapoppy1140 I'm so sorry to hear that. So sorry for your loss. My sincere condolences. May friends and family ease your pain.

[@Oscoe63]

​@@matilijapoppy1140ditto - sorry for your loss. Ironically, Clarence Avant also passed away last week. People may remember from Sugarman that he was the record producer who screwed Rodriguez out if his Aussie and S.A. royalties.

[@happymethehappyone8300]

Incredible..I mean this as a true & absolute compliment when I say that,, His music/vocals are like a combination of Bob Dylan & Lou Reed. 🔥❤️🔥

[@fr3rdsky]

Rest In Peace Sixto. What a Story! I’m glad I was able to learn about his music recently.

[@eugenesteenhuisen4065]

Had his first album when it came out early 70’s and then saw him live when he came to South Africa as in the movie. In so sad that he has passed. Such a humble and gentle being.

[@maggienicholson-schenk6427]

I was fortunate enough to see him in concert in April 2018. Incredible experience.

[@alexwilliams4264]

Starting listening to Rodriguez in My teens I'm now nearly sixty and still love listening his music is timeless and still very much relevant today.

[@badbear3942]

Beautiful Bass Bone playing!

[@deankrain]

Takes his hat off to shake the man's hand. Gentleman through and through.

[@dreamwell2020]

Sometimes I have my doubts about my species - then I listen to this man's music.

[@koyaaanisquatsi]

haha, well said

[@americangirl-]

If he only knew how much I love his soul ,that's all I can say.....BEAUTIFUL SPIRIT ✌❤🌎

[@zhulia]

Such a humble man.

[@duncanclews9424]

only thing more beautiful than the music was the man

[@hgw3394]

That BASS... 👌🏻 💗⭐💎🔊

[@stevensokulsky1915]

Very sad. His song 'Cause' is probably my favorite song of all time. Crucify your mind is not far behind. Saw him in concert in Australia a few years back. He needed to be helped around the stage and I would have chosen different set selection, but I still enjoyed listening to the great man.

[@debrastarr5083]

I saw him too, in Sydney, probably the last time he was here...in Marrickville I think it was...so glad I got to

[@schizophonichaze]

He's amazing.

[@troytaylor9228]

America had such a talent here and missed out> and how such a talent could fly below my radar for so long before I found out about his music is still puzzling to me> Thank you to all South Africans for waking our sleepy American asses up!! His music is top shelf for me ever since hearing the first song I heard by him, I Wonder!! RIP Sixto!!

[@jimmygillard]

Amazing stuff from a masterful musician. Sugarman is up there with The Last Waltz as one of the best every music docs.

[@tommydub1281]

Also the movie Walk Hard.

[@wailaspirit3148]

What a unique & beautiful soul, RIP legend!

[@STYLWALKER1]

LAST TIME I SAW HIM WAS IN A LAUNDROMAT IN DETROIT DURING COVID. I HAD SEEN HIM ALL MY LIFE AS A KID IN WOODBRIDGE DETROIT AND HAD NO IDEA WHO HE WAS. REST WELL SIR.

[@captainnortheast8699]

A humble soul and true talent. I'll remember him more than the famous

[@brianboxall4869]

I grew up in Rhodesia listening to his music in the 70s and 80s can't believe how popular he has become rest in peace

[@madhuekanayake475]

The very small part of this song in The Gambler 2014 got me curious. Been a fan of this great man ever since. What a comeback story and what a loss to music! RIP Sugarman! We love you!

[@bteasley99]

If you haven't watched "Searching for Sugarman" - make SURE to watch it. It's a documentary. And it's one of the most amazing stories you'll ever hear. Thanks Dave and the PANTS folks. Always the best.