B.B. King's Start in Memphis: WDIA Radio

Season 30 Episode 2

About the Episode

B.B. King tells the story of how a product jingle got him a gig at WDIA in Memphis, TN, the country's first radio station to program exclusively for African-Americans. King approached the white station owners for an audition, and they asked him for a tune for Peptikon, which King provided on the spot. Peptikon, a so-called medicinal tonic, became the product sponsor for King's own regular show.

Aired: | Expires: | Runtime: 1m 19s

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Extras

Art Spiegelman: Disaster is My Muse

Explore the career of cartoonist Art Spiegelman and his award-winning graphic novel Maus.

2:00
Liza Minnelli created her own family

Liza Minnelli became a godmother to several of her friends’ children, making her own chosen family.

1:52
What Liza Minnelli was like in her relationships

Friends described Liza Minnelli as going into her relationships with fervor and passion.

2:53
Liza Minnelli on dealing with the press at an early age

Because of her famous parents, Liza Minnelli learned how to handle the press at a young age.

1:40
Liza Minnelli showcased her talents in “Liza with a Z”

“Liza with a Z” highlighted both Liza Minnelli’s personality and her performance capabilities.

3:20
LIZA: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story

Take an intimate look into the life and career of screen and stage icon Liza Minnelli.

2:14
I.M. Pei: Building Interview

I.M. Pei was invited to design a museum to house the antiquities of his native Suzhou.

0:30
The Disappearance of Miss Scott [ASL]

Learn about jazz artist Hazel Scott, the first Black American to have their own TV show.

1:23:30
The Disappearance of Miss Scott [Extended Audio Description + OC]

Learn about jazz artist Hazel Scott, the first Black American to have their own TV show.

1:34:14
Isabella Rossellini compares her acting and modeling

Isabella Rossellini discusses her acting versus modeling career.

28:24