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The Legacy of Sun Records

The record label, led by producer Sam Phillips, launched the careers of legends like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash. Rock historian Ed Ward remembers several of the other, lesser-known acts Phillips signed during Sun's heyday.

06:47
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Other segments from the episode on August 16, 1988

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, August 16, 1988: Interview with Joan Jacobs Brumberg; Commentary on Sam Phillips; Interview with Mako; Review of Don DeLillo's novel "Libra."
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09:55

Finding Roles for an Asian Actor

Japanese American actor Mako appears in two new films out now: Tucker and The Wash. He moved to the United States shortly after World War II, and later served in Korea. He considered dodging the draft, but worried ihs actions might affect his parents' immigration status in America.

Interview
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03:47

"Libra" is a "Cold, Brilliant Moon of a Book"

Book critic John Leonard says that Don DeLillo's new novel is the culmination of the author's career writing great books. The heavily-researched, well-orchestrated story posits that the JFK assassination was an elaborate plot to regain Cuba, and was intended to have been near miss rather than a successful murder.

Review

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43:34

Saluting Sam Phillips.

Sun Studios founder Sam Phillips. He is revered as one of the leading catalysts in post WW II American music. As a record producer in the 1950s and 60s his recordings launched the careers of Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins, and Jerry Lee Lewis and that’s just to name a few. Next Month, Phillips will be a celebrity host on the public radio program Beale Street Caravan. Phillips is now in his mid 70s.

Interview

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