Ricky nelson rock and roll hall of fame

It was not until 1966, with the diminishing popularity of Nelson's music due to the British Invasion and the sitcom's cancellation that Ricky Nelson finally appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show.

One of the era's biggest pin-ups appeared a single time. Shortly after his Sullivan episode, Nelson transitioned to country music, a savvy career shift that revitalized his career.

Flashback: Nelson Hit Number One With 'Love and Affection' – Rolling Stone. Music.

Although he never achieved the recognition and prestige that his popularity seemed to mandate, Rick Nelson sold 60 million records, including 24 golds, and ranked fourth on the list of best-selling single artists.