Songs Of The South

Originally Aired: May 5, 1937 Cavalcade of America #81, "Songs Of The South," celebrates National Music Week by tracing the rich musical heritage of the American South from its earliest origins. The episode opens in 1619 at Jamestown, Virginia, where settlers Thomas and Charles witness the arrival of the first slave ship. To their amazement, they hear drumming and singing carrying across the water from the vessel. The colonists marvel that these enslaved people, torn from their African homes and facing an uncertain future, still find the strength to sing. This moment marks the beginning of a profound musical tradition that will shape American culture for centuries to come. The narrative moves through time, demonstrating how enslaved people created work songs to match the rhythm of planting and harvesting cotton, inspiring composers like Stephen Foster. The episode features performances by soprano Maria Silvera, contralto Abby Mitchell, and the Southern Aires, along with a special appearance by legendary blues composer W.C. Handy performing his famous "Memphis Blues" on trumpet. The story culminates on a moonlit plantation evening where young Melissa and Henry listen to Mamma Callie sing a lullaby before heading to the church, illustrating how Southern music permeated every aspect of life.