Basic Black Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are Basic Black or Say Brother programs available for purchase?
A: Unfortunately, due to legal restrictions on our programs, past and current shows are not available for purchase.
Q: How do I reach Basic Black host Kim McLarin, past producers, or guests of the program?
A: If you would like to send a note to Kim McLarin, guests who have appeared, or members of the Basic Black staff, please send an email to basic_black@wgbh.org or send a letter to WGBH/Basic Black, One Guest Street, Boston, MA 02135.
Q: Is the program taped in front of a studio audience? How do I get tickets to see the program?
A: Basic Black is not usually taped in front of a studio audience. However, if an opportunity arises when we tape a program in front of an audience, we will extend an invitation to our viewers whenever possible.
Q: How do I suggest a story idea for Basic Black?
A: Unfortunately, Basic Black does not accept unsolicited ideas or materials for programs.
Q: Where can I offer feedback about an episode of Basic Black?
A: We encourage our viewers to write to us. You can send an email to basic_black@wgbh.org or send a letter to WGBH/Basic Black, One Guest Street, Boston, MA 02135.
Q: Is there any way for me to communicate with other fans of Basic Black?
A: Yes. You can discover the latest Basic Black news, chat with Basic Black fans, and post comments on our Facebook page. You can also share your critical analysis and opinions on the cultural commentary raised by guests on our blog, The Color Line: Basic Black Griot, a salon dedicated to race and public media.
Q: Does Basic Black air outside Boston?
A: WGBH can be seen and heard across the United States and Canada, but here in New England, our television channels include 2, WGBH 44, World, Create, 'GBH Kids, WGBH On Demand, Boston Kids & Family, and WGBH HD. Basic Black can be seen on 2, WGBH 44, and World. If you live outside the Boston area, you can view our programs online, where they are streamed after their premiere dates. Please visit www.wgbh.org/basicblack for scheduling and program information.
Q: When did Basic Black change its name from Say Brother, and why?
A: In 1998, the show was revamped to become "Basic Black." After 30 seasons, the decision was made to update the show from its 1960s origins to reflect the sensibilities of current times.
Q: How long has Basic Black been on air, and why was it created?
A: Basic Black, formerly called Say Brother, is WGBH's and New England's longest-running public affairs television program by, for, and about African Americans. WGBH aired James Brown's performance in Boston the night after Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in April 1968. In addition to being credited with helping keep Boston calm during nationwide riots after King's death, the James Brown concert is considered the precursor to Say Brother. Say Brother made its official debut on July 15, 1968.
Q: I am interested in jobs at WGBH or Basic Black. How do I apply?
A: Basic Black is currently not hiring, but other career opportunities are available at WGBH. To learn more about these, please visit http://main.wgbh.org/wgbh/jobs.
Q: I am interested in becoming an intern at Basic Black. How do I apply?
A: If you are interested in becoming an intern at Basic Black, please send your résumé and cover letter to WGBH/Basic Black, c/o Associate Producer, One Guest Street, Boston, MA 02135. We encourage applications for the fall, summer, and spring terms.
