Wed, Oct 1, 1980
Explores the world of jazz vocalists - interspersing film clips of Billie Holliday, Louis Armstrong, and Duke Ellington with performances by Carmen McRae and Al Jarreau. After they sing, McRae and Jarreau talk about how they developed their individual styles.
Thu, Oct 9, 1980
In a rafter-raising service at Way of the Cross Church of Christ, Washington DC, Reverend James Cleveland, the DC Mass Choir, the Mighty Clouds of Joy and the congregation leave no doubt about the invigorating effect of gospel music.
Willie Dixon, Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee perform and talk with Oscar Brown Jr. about the growth of the distinctive musical style called the blues.
Wed, Oct 22, 1980
Featuring performances by Hugh Masekela and the Wo'se Dance Theatre, host Oscar Brown Jr. examines the special role of music in African and Afro-American culture
Wed, Oct 29, 1980
Jazz pioneers Alvin Alcorn and Roy Eldridge perform and talk with host Oscar Brown Jr. about the origins of their music. Includes film clips and early photos telling the story of ragtime, the art form that grew from the music of slaves.
Wed, Nov 12, 1980
Be-Bop Pioneers Dizzy Gillespie, James Moody, and Hard Bop saxophonist Jackie McLean perform and examine the history of jazz from 1936 to the present.
Wed, Nov 19, 1980
Oscar Brown Jr. hosts Pearl Bailey to explore the role of music by black Americans in the evolution of theater and film. Performances by L.O. Sloane's high-spirited "Refined Jubilee Minstrels".
Wed, Nov 26, 1980
Oscar Brown Jr. explores the relationship between jazz and blues with special guests Willie Dixon, Roy Eldridge and Jackie McLean.
Wed, Dec 3, 1980
Stevie Wonder discusses and demonstrates the characteristics of soul music, speaking with host Oscar Brown, Jr. and in performance.
Wed, Dec 10, 1980
Explores the trends in the recording industry influencing the creation and marketing of music by black Americans. George Benson is featured recording in the studio with producer Quincy Jones.
Wed, Dec 17, 1980
The evolution of rhythm and blues and its impact on contemporary American music are traced. Guest performers are Bo Diddley and the Dells.
1980
Explores African musical patterns retained by contemporary musicians. Guests include Chuck Brown and the Soul Searchers and Babatunde Olatunji.