American Masters

How Roberta Flack created soul with "getting-togetherness"

Songwriter Les McCann described seeing Roberta Flack perform with all of that "getting-togetherness," referencing the soulful and central quality of Black music. "The concept of soul was really this attempt to recreate what was particular about being Black in America. This experience of struggle and resilience and pride," said author and cultural critic Emily Lordi.

How Roberta Flack created soul with "getting-togetherness"

2m 43s

  • How Phyllis Diller broke down the doors for female comics: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    How Phyllis Diller broke down the doors for female comics

    11m 35s

    On September 19, 2007, Phyllis Diller reflected on how her comedy was a response to years of “take my wife” jokes. Interview conducted by director Michael Kantor for the six-hour PBS comedy series, “Make ‘Em Laugh: The Funny Business of America” (2009).

  • Paul Mooney on his career and relationship with Richard Pryor: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Paul Mooney on his career and relationship with Richard Pryor

    10m 39s

    On April 6, 2007, Paul Mooney reflected on the mechanics of stand-up comedy and his unique role as best friend to comedy’s all-time greatest, Richard Pryor. Interview conducted by director Michael Kantor for the six-hour PBS comedy series, “Make ‘Em Laugh: The Funny Business of America” (2009).

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