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A White Impresario Promotes Black Blues Artists

Johnny Otis, who was born to Greek parents, claimed he became black by immersing himself in African American communities and culture. He later opened a blues club in Los Angeles, and helped promote new talent in the scene. Rock historian Ed Ward tells his story.

06:32

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Other segments from the episode on January 31, 1989

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, January 31, 1989: Interview with Tobias Wolff; Commentary on Reverend Johnny Otis; Interview with John Flansburgh and John Linnell; Review of Martin Duberman's book "Paul…

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