Discussing the book "The New Grove Dictionary of American Music". They talk about American music and musicians of all kinds and from different periods. Includes Charles Ive's song "At the River" sung by Cleo Laine in the middle of the program.

*Please note: some sections have been edited out from the original recording due to copyright considerations 

Singer-songwriter and activist Holly Near discusses her work for fighting for social justice through outlets such as her music. Near a prominent proponent for the LGBTQ community has streamlined her work using folk and protest-inspired songs. Near has been awarded multiple honors from organizations such as the ACLU and the National Organization for Women for her work for social change.

Hoagy B. Carmichael discusses his father and legendary jazz musician, Hoagy Carmichael. He also explores his work as a music producer, author, bamboo fly rod builder, and manager of his father’s music. Includes a test tone that lasts 25 seconds. music.

This is an interview with Herman Prey about his music career and the history of the opera music. This record contains music fragments from Papageno's lyrics of The Magic Flute.

Studs interview of Air jazz trio with Henry Threadgill - reeds, Fred Hopkins - bass, and Steve McCall - percussion. They discuss their individual careers and the people who have influenced them. Studs quoted Nelson Algren. Studs explores the evolution of their music and how the three came together. They discuss various pieces of their music and the instruments they use. Pauses were taken for musical numbers but none were played on this recording.

Helen Humes discusses her career and touring with Count Basie and his orchestra. John McDonough is present for the interview and contributes. Songs sung by Helen are played throughout the interview: "He May Be Your Man", "Song of the Wanderer", "If I Could Be with You for One Hour Tonight" (2 recordings- one from 1940 and one from 1977), "Unlucky Woman", "They Can't Take That Away From Me", "Today I Sing the Blues", and "They Raided the Joint". Music has been removed for copyright reasons.

Presenting music by the TubaSantas with Harvey Phillips and Dr. Frederick Fennell. Program may include a live performance. "Generic Version"-Re-edited on 12/6/1995

Studs interviews Harry Chapin about his music and career. They discuss Chapin’s style of writing songs. Chapin describes some of his songs such as “Cats In the Cradle,” “Sniper,” “WOLD,” and “Mr. Tanner.” He stresses that his songs tell stories and often are influenced by real-life events. For example, “30,000 Bananas Pounds of Bananas” came from a trip he took on a Greyhound bus through Pennsylvania where there was a truck accident.

The conversation continues with Belafonte talking about his album, "Belafonte Sings of the Caribbean". The songs, explained Belafonte, were both reflections of his childhood and things he was exposed to as an adult. Belafonte believed both Louis Armstrong and Jack Teagarden played important roles in jazz music.

Singer Harry Belafonte discusses Black music including spirituals and jazz and how it has contributed to American culture.

Studs interviews Harriet Choice, Jazz critic for the Chicago Tribune. They reflect on the music, talent and career of Duke Ellington. Choice describes several Ellington songs and the history behind them. She shares how Duke created music and wrote specifically for individual people. Studs reads what Ellington wrote about his song “Harlem Airshaft.” Choice and Terkel reflect on Ellington’s music and those who made music with him. Choice shares how a Duke Ellington performance at the Newport Jazz Festival rejuvenated Ellington’s career.

Chicago Tribune jazz critic Harriet Choice plays and discusses some favorite records from her own personal collection with Studs Terkel.

Harold Prince discusses his direction of Madame Butterfly while also discussing operas, musicals, and theater in general.

Haig Allahverdian discusses Armenian music and culture as well as the Armenian massacre and its effects on the Armenian people on the whole. Copyrighted material has been removed from this program.