June 12, 1928. The great Blues singer Ma Rainey steps up to the microphone at a studio in Chicago. She’s there to record a scandalous song called “Prove It On Me Blues.” It’s her answer to the rumor that she’d once attended a party with a bunch of other half-clothed women – a party that got busted by the cops. It’s a rumor she doesn’t deny. The song is just ... Show More
Jul 13
The Forgotten Father of Air Conditioning
July 14, 1850. At a swanky hotel in Apalachicola, Florida, the French consul is throwing a Bastille Day party, and he's promised his guests ice-cold champagne. There's just one problem: the town's ice shipment is delayed, and in 1850, you can't simply make ice. Or can you? Enter ... Show More
27m 54s
Jul 6
The *Other* Declaration of Independence (Part II)
July, 1845. Dr. Smith Boughton, the man behind the mask of "Big Thunder," is sitting in a Hudson jail after a trial that ended in a hung jury.The Anti-Renters had to celebrate Independence Day with cannon fire and readings of the Declaration, but without their leader. The rebelli ... Show More
22m 43s
May 2014
Ladies Sing the Blues 2
Female blues singers from the 1920s, including: Ma Rainey, Bessie Smith, Eva Taylor, Mamie Smith, Ethyl Waters, Lucille Bogan, Alberta Hunter and Mary Johnson. Songs include: West End Blues, Careless Love, He's Your Dog, But He's Wearing My Collar, Bring It With You, Payroll Blue ... Show More
41m 42s
Feb 2021
Ella Fitzgerald, Revisited (and a request)
From a rough start on the streets of Harlem, to the Apollo stage, smokey clubs, years on the road and in recording studios Ella led the world through the trends and wild ride that was the musical scene during most of the last century. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megap ... Show More
1h 9m
Feb 2022
Feminist Movie Friday: Ma Rainey's Black Bottom
<p>For this Feminist Movie Friday, we focus in on the beautiful, tragic and powerful music, performances, costuming, and history of Ma Rainey's Black Bottom. </p><p> </p> Learn more about your ad-choices at <a href="https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com">https://www.iheartpodcastn ... Show More
49m 11s