Brownie McGhee and Sonny Terry discuss their careers as blues musicians and longtime collaborators. The close relationship between Terry and McGhee is apparent as they perform a number of original and traditional songs during the interview. Songs have been removed due to copyright.
This interview begins with a clip of one of Dick Gregory’s performances, where he talks about nonviolence and Native Americans. Studs Terkel introduces his guest as an observer, explaining that comedians are the best observers in society. Gregory offers extended analogies to communicate his views on a variety of topics, including the Vietnam War, race relations, segregation, human rights, and urban renewal. [The date is unclear, but it has to be after 1970, since the Kent State Shootings were mentioned]
Discussing Antonia and interviewing Jill Godmilow.
Gwendolyn Brooks, Poet Laureate of Illinois, talks about her poetry, her books, and some of her influences.
Studs Terkel presents a “musical portrait” of Steve Goodman with the musician joining him in the studio to discuss, listen to, and play songs from his album “Words We Can Dance To.” Goodman begins by performing the blues song “Glory of Love,” and Terkel plays a clip from Big Bill Broonzy’s rendition of the song; Goodman cites Big Bill as one of his many influences. Goodman also plays an old jazz song called “When the Red, Red Robin,” with Terkel connecting that song to his first memories of jazz.
French writer Anais Nin discusses her book “Under a Glass Bell” and its influences with Studs Terkel. Nin reads a few excerpts from her recently published work “Under a Glass Bell.”
Discussing the making of film documentaries with Fred Wiseman, especially his film, "Juvenile Court." Includes excerpts of the sound track from a juvenile detention center in Memphis, Tennessee.
Musician Anthony Braxton speaks with Studs Terkel about his music and the various musicians who have influenced him.
Discussing steelworkers and interviewing Ed Sadlowski of the United Steelworkers of America and Ted Smolarek.