The six-piece, consisting of Sheppard siblings George, Amy and Emma as well as Jason Bovino, Dean Gordon and Michael Butler, played their hit Geronimo for the daytime talk show crowd.

All six wielded instruments, with Amy, Emma and Jason providing harmonies and back-up to George's lead vocals.

In her introduction, DeGeneres said they were "a great band from Australia who are here to make their American television debut with their number one hit, Geronimo".

At the conclusion of the performance, she shook hands with all band members and described the song as "beautiful".

If there were some slight nerves, they were entirely understandable - Ellen averages three million viewers per episode, with a large online community.

Sheppard continues its US tour before heading to Europe next month, before returning to Australia in time for the ARIAs on November 26.

The band is nominated for seven awards, including Song of the Year and Album of the Year.

Sheppard is the first Australian band to appear on Ellen, although not the first Australian music act.

Sia sang her knockout hit Chandelier on the show in May this year; however, in her usual style, didn't reveal her face to the audience or cameras.