Rhapsody in Black
Rhapsody in Black
A celebration of classic blues, R&B, and group harmony from the 1930s to the '60s.
About the Show
Two hours of rockin' and rollin' from the soul of America—"Mama don't allow no AI music 'round here." Along with familiar favorites, Jim introduces listeners to obscurities and oddities: early performances by later stars, humorous and startling items about Black history and culture—like a 1952 song about a Los Angeles freeway coming through and fragmenting an African American neighborhood. The down-to-earth street music of Black artists who created the foundation of what is now a worldwide, multi-billion-dollar entertainment phenomenon. Great Googly Moogly.
History & Legacy
Rhapsody in Black started in the mid-1980s with Bill Gardner, celebrating classic blues, R&B, and vocal harmony that mainstream radio ignored. Jim Dawson inherited it from Bill, bringing first-hand connections to the artists and the stories behind the music. Bill still drops by occasionally to say hello to his fans and play records. Regular guests include Ray Regalado and Anthony Gonzalez, who bring their own perspectives to the show's playlists.
N.W.A with Dr. Dre and Eazy-E, joined by host Jim Dawson, writer Dane Webb and MC Ren
Jim Dawson with Anthony Gonzalez and Ray Regalado, frequent guests on the show
Former host Bill Gardner with saxophonist Joe Houston, Jim Dawson behind them
Host
Jim Dawson
Jim Dawson grew up in West Virginia in the 1950s listening to R&B and rock 'n' roll, and never stopped. Since moving to Los Angeles in 1977, he's interviewed dozens of Black recording artists and their families, written liner notes for at least 100 blues and R&B albums, and authored books including "What Was the First Rock 'n' Roll Record?" He's managed and produced artists like saxophonist Big Jay McNeely, blues pianist Willie Egan, and singers Richard Berry and Thurston Harris.
Episodes
Playlists
Keep This Show On the Air
Rhapsody in Black plays the music of Black artists who created the foundation of American popular music. Your donation keeps these recordings—and their stories—on the air every Saturday.
What's On Now
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Program Schedule
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