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Michael Feinstein's American Songbook Season 1 Episodes

  • 2010-2013
  • 3 Seasons
  • PBS
  • Documentary
  • TVPG
  • Watchlist
    Where to Watch

A history of American popular music through the eyes of vocalist Michael Feinstein, featuring his interpretations of classic songs, stories of the songwriters and entertainers he's worked with. The series follows him on tour and into attics, basements and flea markets in search of treasures from the bygone age, and includes audio and film footage, as well as past and present performances of songs.

Season 1 Episode Guide

Season 1

3 Episodes 2010 - 2010

Episode 1

Putting on the Tailfins

Wed, Oct 6, 2010 57 mins

Vocalist Michael Feinstein's history of American popular music opens with the 1950s and 1960s, when such singers as Rosemary Clooney, Nat King Cole and Frank Sinatra kept the Great American Songbook alive despite the burgeoning popularity of rock and rhythm and blues.

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Episode 2

Best Band in the Land

Wed, Oct 13, 2010 57 mins

The roles that popular music played during WWII, providing emotional solace and boosting morale, are remembered. Michael Feinstein also discusses the era's big bands, USO shows, V-Discs and war bond rallies; and prepares an original patriotic song.

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Episode 3

A New Step Everyday

Wed, Oct 20, 2010 57 mins

The series finale recalls the 1920s and 1930s, when jazz was hot and alcohol illegal---but readily available in underground speakeasies. Between performances, Michael Feinstein discusses the advent of talking pictures, radio and the recording industry. Also: other Jazz Age collectors and musicians are introduced.

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