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Soul and R&B

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06:58

The Come-Back of General Johnson.

Rock historian Ed Ward profiles General Norman Johnson, and the long, convoluted path that led him to the group, the Chairmen of the Board.

Commentary
06:56

A True Pioneer of Rhythm and Blues.

Rock historian Ed Ward reacquaints us with the music of Louis Jordan. In the late 1940's he was one of the highest-grossing black acts in the country.

Commentary
11:18

Adding Blacks and Women Back Into the History of Rock.

Rock critic Dave Marsh. Marsh is one of rock's most influential voices. He edited the Rolling Stone Record Guide and has written profiles of Bruce Springsteen and the Who. Marsh's new book is "The Heart of Rock and Roll: The 1001 Greatest Singles Ever Made."

Interview
22:22

Rhythm and Blues Pioneer Johnny Otis.

Bandleader, singer, songwriter, and talent scout Johnny Otis. His musical career spans the big band era, rhythm and blues, and rock and roll. In the 40's he played and traveled with the big bands, with the Ink Spots and Louis Jordan. Later, with a pared down band, he was on the forefront of the rhythm and blues. He's credited with discovering Etta James, Big Mama Thornton, Jackie Wilson and Ernestine Anderson.

Interview
11:19

Jazz Legend Lester Bowie Interprets Rhythm and Blues.

Jazz trumpeter Lester Bowie. Bowie is considered one of the most original trumpeters in jazz, and a master of horn effects. Bowie started out playing with Saint Louis R&B bands. In 1969, he helped found the Art Ensemble of Chicago as an outlet for more eclectic and avant-garde jazz. Bowie also heads his own band, Lester Bowie's Brass Fantasy. They have a new album, called "Serious Fun."

Interview
06:57

The Blues Didn't Die, It Just Moved Down Back South.

Rock and roll historian Ed Ward talks about what happened to the blues from 1966 to the present. They were supposed to be dead during this period, but he says there are some eternals that keep going on no matter what.

Commentary
07:26

Sly Stone's Work as a Producer.

Rock historian Ed Ward examines the other side of Sly Stone. In the 60s and 70s Stone was the flamboyant leader of the group Sly and the Family Stone, but he was also an accomplished record producer.

Commentary
07:55

Willie Mitchell's Many-Faceted Career.

Rock and roll historian Ed Ward profiles Memphis soul musician and producer Willie Mitchell. Mitchell was a trumpeter whose own tastes ran to jazz and soul. But Mitchell enjoyed his greatest success as a producer and talent scout. He launched the careers of Al Green, Ann Peebles and O.V.Wright.

Commentary
06:04

Lee Dorsey Survives the New Orleans' Music Scene

Its easy for musicians to fall out favor in the city if they don't keep up with the latest sounds. But Lee Dorsey, who started singing at 35, was never interested in following the trends. Rock historian Ed Ward has this profile.

Commentary
06:32

Time Again for the Tucker Top Five

Ken Tucker returns with his latest countdown of noteworthy songs. His list features Roachford, Peter Case, Tim Finn, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, and Elvis Costello.

Review
06:58

Soul Music with a Stiff Upper Lip

Rock critic Ken Tucker considers the recent trend of British bands taking their cues from American soul music, with varying success. Recent examples include songs by Simply Red, The Pasadenas, Boy George, and Fine Young Cannibals.

Commentary
06:25

An Overlooked Stax Records Star

William Bell had a decade-long career with the label. Rock historian Ed Ward says that, while Bell never had a mainstream hit, he made consistently great, literate soul music.

Commentary
06:35

Remembering a Forgotten Louisiana Legend

Many listeners aren't familiar with the New Orleans pianist Professor Longhair, but his songs have had a profound influence on the current generation of Louisiana musicians. Rock historian has this profile.

Commentary
09:33

A Pop Singer Considers His Next Career Move

Part 2 of the Fresh Air interview with Little Anthony. He talks about the making some of his hit records like "Shimmy Shimmy Cocoa Pop" and "Hurt So Bad." He performs regularly in New York, but hopes to reignite his recording career.

Interview
06:33

Louisiana's Lesser-Known, Home-Grown Talent

Rock historian Ed Ward says there was talent all over the state during the 1950s and '60s. Despite their excellent music, most of the recording artists of this era faded into obscurity. But contemporary musicians like Willie Nelson and Elvis Costello are rediscovering Louisiana's soulful, forgotten legacy.

Commentary

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