Music

Rock historian Ed Ward looks back on the career of songwriter Bert Berns.

Rock historian Ed Ward talks about the Philadelphia soul music scene which produced such superstars as Teddy Pendergrass. Many of those artists were signed to the Philadelphia International Records label.

Rock historian Ed Ward tells us the tale of Joe Tex, a black man who longed to be a country singer, a preacher who renounced Christianity, and a life-long teetotaler who died of drug and alcohol abuse.

Rock historian Ed Ward looks back at the career of Lonnie Johnson, a bluesman who also made a career as a studio musician and club owner.

Rock Historian Ed Ward has pt 2 of 2 in our look at Ray Charles career. This year marks his 50th year in the music business. Much of the music comes from "Ray Charles: Genius & Soul: The 50th Anniversary Collection" (Rhino)

Rock historian Ed Ward begins a 2-part retrospective on the work of Ray Charles, who celebrates 50 years in show business this year. Much of the music comes from "Ray Charles: Genius & Soul: The 50th Anniversary Collection" (Rhino)

Music Critic Milo Miles talks about the renewed interest in Cuban music in the U.S.

Rock historian Ed Ward continues with part 2 of 3 in his series on Atlantic Records. This year the recording company is celebrating its 50th Anniversary. Today, we look at how Atlantic became a powerhouse for soul music.

Rock historian Ed Ward considers the music of Mardi Gras.

Writer Gay Talese reads from "Sinatra Has a Cold" an article he first published in Esquire Magazine in 1966. The reading aired on public radio's This American Life last February. Talese's books include, "Unto The Sons," the story of the immigrant experience in America, and also the chronicle of Talese's own Italian ancestors coming to this country. Also the best-sellers "The Kingdom and the Power," "Honor Thy Father," and "Thy Neighbor's Wife."