Don DeMichael, editor-in-chief of DownBeat, has brought a collection of jazz duets and critiques and evaluates the songs with Studs Terkel.

Studs interviews Marian and Jimmy McPartland. The McPartlands reflect on those in Jazz who have influenced them. Studs talks to Marian about women in Jazz. They discuss the Jazz audience. The musical numbers are removed from this edited version of the original recording.

Studs interviews Joe Venuti, who reflects on his career with various bands and shows. John McDonough cohosts the interview with Studs. Venuti speaks about various instruments he and others use in Jazz. He shares a story of how the depression affected him. Venuti discusses the pranks he pulled on people and other musicians he has worked with. The musical numbers are removed from this edited version of the original recording.

Earl "Fatha" Hines discusses various musicians he's worked with including Louis Armstrong, Charlie Parker, and Dizzy Gillespie. He remembers that bands became bigger after needing to add members to play bigger venues because people liked to dance. He also talks about how he liked to work to create shows and his approach to jazz composition. Music is played throughout: "Weather Bird" with Louis Armstrong, "My Monday Date", "Cavernism", "Boogie Woogie On St. Louis Blues", "Rosetta", and "Second Balcony Jump". Music has been removed from this file for copyright reasons.

Barrett Deems discusses his upbringing where he began drumming at age 4 and recalls touring with Louis Armstrong and other musicians. He also talks about meeting drummers in Africa. Music is played throughout: "Flip"- Joe Venuti, "Shine"- Barrett Deems Hottet, "Now You Has Jazz"- Bing Crosby and Louis Armstrong (from "High Society"), "Muskrat Ramble"- Louis Armstrong, "Struttin' with Some Barbecue"- Louis Armstrong, "Slipped Disc"- Benny Goodman, "Stompin' at the Savoy"- Louis Armstrong. Music has been removed from this recording for copyright reasons.