How Sweet It Is (1987) Apr 2026

The year 1987 marked the end of an era for American comedy when , known as "The Great One," passed away on June 24 at age 71.

The song "How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)," originally a 1964 hit for Marvin Gaye, remained a staple in 1987 through various artists:

The phrase saw several significant cultural moments in 1987 , most notably tied to the passing of legendary entertainer Jackie Gleason , who popularized the catchphrase. The Passing of Jackie Gleason (1987) How Sweet It Is (1987)

: The Dutch singer released a version of the song on her 1987 album The Best of My Love and performed it on programs like Wie Kent Nederland .

: Although his hit cover was released in 1975, Taylor continued to perform it globally; a notable live performance aired on the German music program Ohne Filter around this era. Other 1987 References The year 1987 marked the end of an

: On October 31, 1987, the Jerry Garcia Band performed the song during their legendary run at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre in New York City.

: Upon his death, news outlets and fans widely used "How Sweet It Is" as a tribute to his career, which spanned from early nightclub comedy to iconic roles in The Honeymooners and movies like Smokey and the Bandit . Music & Performances : Although his hit cover was released in

: While Gleason made the phrase a cornerstone of his variety show and characters like Ralph Kramden, it reportedly first appeared in his 1963 film Papa's Delicate Condition .