See Maya Angelou's early performances in the Bay Area

Season 31 Episode 2

About the Episode

Maya Angelou transitioned from dancing to singing early in her career, focusing on Calypso-style music while working in the Bay Area.

Aired: | Expires: | Runtime: 59s

American Masters 2025 sneak peek

Discover the lives of those who have left an indelible impression on our cultural landscape.

0:32
Hazel Scott went on strike in her most popular film role

Hazel Scott went on strike while shooting "The Heat's On," where she plays two pianos at once.

4:19
When Hazel Scott was accused of communist ties

When Hazel Scott was accused of affiliations with communism, she was determined to clear her name.

4:18
When Hazel Scott started jazzing the classics

Discover how Hazel Scott started jazzing the classics.

2:29
The Disappearance of Miss Scott

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

3:18
The success of Brenda Lee’s “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree”

Brenda Lee recorded “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree,” written by Johnny Marx, when she was 12.

1:28
Brenda Lee: Rockin’ Around [Extended Audio Description + OC]

Discover the life of singer Brenda Lee and her musical hits spanning genres and decades.

1:00:13
Brenda Lee: Rockin’ Around [ASL]

Discover the life of singer Brenda Lee and her musical hits spanning genres and decades.

52:55
Brenda Lee: Rockin’ Around [EAD + OC Trailer]

Discover the life of singer Brenda Lee and her musical hits spanning genres and decades.

3:31
Brenda Lee: Rockin’ Around [ASL Trailer]

Discover the life of singer Brenda Lee and her musical hits spanning genres and decades.

2:56

What matters to you.