DeFord Bailey and country music in Nashville

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In this episode, acclaimed musician Rhiannon Giddens explores the home of country music in Nashville to see how black people shaped this genre. How black is Nashville and its music history? Rhiannon uncovers the story of one of the biggest stars of the early country era: the African American ‘Harmonica Wizard’ DeFord Bailey. He was one of the most beloved performers at the Grand Ole Opry and the first black star of the radio age. Featuring Frankie Staton, Pamela E. Foster, Dom Flemons, David C. Morton, Phil Jamison and Alice Randall. Presenter: Rhiannon Giddens Producer: Tom Woolfenden A Loftus production for BBC World Service (Photo: Musician Rhiannon Giddens. Credit: Ebru Yildiz)