Terkel comments and presents a musical performance of Ladino songs

In this interview with Terkel, folk singer-songwriter Arlo Guthrie talks about what influences his songwriting and the new definition of folk music. They touch on the shared experience of humanity, the role of the entertainer in society, and the older generation’s contributions to society. Guthrie expresses a desire to create a music “carnival” where performers and audience members both participate together. Guthrie also discusses how he began playing the banjo, and Studs comments on how Arlo has grown as a musician since his father's, Woody Guthrie, death.

Marge Guthrie, Woody Guthrie’s second wife and Arlo Guthrie’s mother, joins Studs Terkel to discuss her late husband’s music and the lasting impact it made. Marge calls Woody a “chronicler,” remarking on his great ability to write songs about and for the common man, and informs Terkel of honors that Woody received from the state and federal government to commemorate his contribution to conservation efforts.

Known for their songs about the working class, both Florence Reece and Pete Seeger talk about how they come about writing the lyrics to songs. Seeger says unbeknownst to them, anyone can write a song. Included within this interview, Seeger plays the banjo and Reece sings a song.

Focus of the interview is Gibson's record Makin' a Mess.