Music producer John Hammond and jazz critic for Down Beat magazine John McDonough discuss: Hammond's career; the artists he worked with; the artists he was the first to sign; social reform; and more. The following musical excerpts are played: "7 Come 11"; "Sauce"; "Talking Union"; "Blowing In the Wind"; "Today I Sing The Blues"; and "Live Embers".

Folk singer-songwriter and composer Jim Post and musician Randy Sabien discuss their upcoming performance at the Levy Center in Evanston, Illinois. The collaborators discuss their musical backgrounds and their opinions on global warming, religious views, and musical influences.

Jean Ritchie discusses her life, music, experiences, and career. She also discusses folk music. Includes songs performed by Jean Ritchie including "Shady Grove", "None But One", "Sweet Sound in the Wind", "Riddle Song" (sung with Oscar Brand), "See That Rainbow Shine", "Black Waters" (sung with Janis Ian), "Now is the Love of the Day", "Little Lonesome Dove", "Barbry Allen", "Brightest and Best", and "Now Is The Cool of the Day".

Studs Terkel interviews blues singer song-writer Janis Joplin. This program discusses the following: Joplin's song "Turtle Blues"; Joplin's idols Bessie Smith and Lead Belly; Joplin's style of singing; Joplin's song writing; the blues; Joplin's interpretation of "Summertime"; and various renditions of the jazz song "Summertime". The following musical excerpts were presented: "Turtle Blues"; "Summertime" (interpreted by Janis Joplin); "Summertime" (interpreted by Mahalia Jackson); "Summertime" (interpreted by Billie Holiday); "Ball and Chain"; "Piece of My Heart"; and "Billie's Blues".

Discussing his appearance at Rick's Cafe with jazz musician Mose Allison.

Charles Keil discusses his book "Urban Blues" and the separation between White Americans and African Americans. There is an excerpt of a song by B.B. King played in the middle of an interview to give an example of Blues music.

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.

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.