Sandra Lieb discusses the book "Mother of the Blues: A Study of Ma Rainey." Includes songs sung by Ma Rainey such as "Runaway Blues," "See See Rider," "Moonshine Blues," and "Oh, Papa Blues." Includes poem "Ma Rainey" by Sterling Brown. Includes "Oh, Daddy," by Ethel Waters. Includes "Young Woman's Blues" by Bessie Smith.

Writer and poet Maya Angelou talks about her life, Creole influences, and her book “Gather Together in My Name” with Studs Terkel. Angelou reads an excerpt from the book and the recording opens with Angelou reading one of her poems.

Leonard Bernstein discusses his career as a composer along with his thoughts on American culture, musical theater, Black music, classical music, and education; music is played throughout the program including songs from Marc Blitzstein's play "The Cradle Will Rock."

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

Author Dr. Samuel Floyd discusses his projects in relation to black music and elements from his book "The Power of Black Music: Interpreting Its History from Africa to the United States." Includes an interview with Langston Hughes.

This 1959 broadcast was recorded after Alan Lomax traveled Europe collecting folk music.