Season 9:
Responsibility in the Modern Age
Old Sayings That Still Have Meaning
A Meeting Is Not A Movement
Make America Greater
The Importance of Education
A Reunion with the Son of Mr Clyde
Hey Plumbliners, we’ve often talked about Mr Clyde – the man who took Shelley in when he was living in Stringfellows Stable. Well, a few weeks ago Shelley had a reunion with Mr Clyde’s son. Stay tuned and we’ll tell you all about it.
Shelley's Back!
Hey Plumbliners. Welcome to Season 9 of the Plumbline. Let’s take a walk about to the back porch and hear some of Shelley’s reflections on his 90 years of life. Get ready, Shelley is back!
Season 8:
Should We End Black History Month? (Rebroadcast)
Black History Month has been celebrated for decades as a time to honor and recognize the contributions and achievements of Black individuals throughout history. However, some argue that relegating Black history to a single month perpetuates segregation and fails to fully integrate it into the mainstream curriculum. Ending Black History Month could be beneficial, as it would emphasize that Black history is an integral part of American history that should be incorporated into educational curricula throughout the year.
Today, we rebroadcast a podcast we first released in April of 2023. The podcast features an interview with Dr. Horace Huntley in February 1991 and suggests that by ending Black History Month, we might celebrate Black culture and history throughout the year.
The Back Porch: Race, Racism and Happiness (Rebroadcast)
Hey Plumbliners, This week, we rebroadcast an episode we first released in June 2024. Shelley and I shared our experiences learning about race and racism. Then, we touched upon the topic of happiness. Stayed tuned. It's worth another listen.
Shelley Reflects on Black History Month and Racism (Rebroadcast)
Today, we re-share an episode from 2023. Shelley shares his personal insights on the overt and not-so-overt signs that racism is still evident in America today.
Stay tuned as the plumbline seeks the truth.
Hate Crimes (Rebroadcast)
Hey Plumbliners. This is Mark Jamroz, producer of Shelley’s Plumbline. Just a few days ago, on January 27th, Shelley and I celebrated what would have been the 93rd birthday of his brother Jerome, affectionally known as Bubba. To continue that celebration, we’re going to rebroadcast one of the Plumbline’s most popular podcasts. It’s about Hate Crimes, featuring Rodney Max. It seems this message is as important today as it ever has been. Stay tuned, and Happy Heavenly Birthday to Jerome Stewart.
Rare Speeches of Dr. Martin Luther King (Rebroadcast)
As we continue the retrospective of Shelley's Plumbline, and in honor of Martin Luther King Jr Day, we are rebroadcasting an episode from Season 3.
They feature some rare recordings of #MLK that Shelley had forgotten about.
These are speeches MLK made in Birmingham! Why are they rare? Because for his protection and to keep Bull Conner guessing, Dr. King would often show up to churches unannounced to make speeches.
Shelley Stewart was in attendance recording the choir when Dr. King showed up. They left the recorder running when he made these speeches. You can hear them both in this week's podcast.
Very timely given that September 15 is the anniversary of bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church.
In Season 3, Shelley sets the record straight on the "Movement" and how only the media called it the "Civil Rights Movement." It was, and is, a Movement for the freedom of all people.
Please listen, and if you are so moved, share it with others.
Interview with Hosea Williams: Did the Dream of Dr King Become a Nightmare? (Rebroadcast)
Dr. King's legacy inspired generations of activists and leaders, and his contributions continue to be recognized and celebrated today as a beacon of hope and progress. But Dr. King had a premonition about his death, and he warned the members of his inner circle to beware of the tactics external forces would use to break the movement apart after he was gone.
As a member of the King's inner circle, Hosea Williams served as the advance man, organizing some of the most important events in the movement. Williams traveled to cities throughout the South, recruiting and organizing volunteers, paving the way for appearances by King, Jesse Jackson, and Andrew Young.
Williams and John Lewis led the "Bloody Sunday" march in Selma, Alabama, in 1965.
This episode features an interview from September of 1994 with Shelley Stewart and Hosea Williams. Hosea reveals the dire warning King had for the members of his inner circle.
Was Hosea Williams right? Did the Dream of Dr. Martin Luther King Become a Nightmare? Listen and let us know what you think.
Internalized Racism (Rebroadcast)
Hey, Plumbliners. As we rewind through some of our most popular podcasts, we couldn’t overlook our very first. It was published on April 17, 2023. And it’s about Internalized Racism. Take a listen.
Rebroadcast of The Last Interview with Eddie Kendricks
Happy New Year, Plumbliners! Welcome to the year 2025!
We are planning for great things in this new year, but before we get started, we wanted to look back. So, for the next few weeks, we will be rebroadcasting some of YOUR favorite Plumblines.
To date, we have published 87 podcasts. While most of our fans are in the US, Shelley’s Plumbline has a global reach with downloads in Singapore, Asia, Europe, and Africa.
When it comes to subject matter, some of our most popular podcasts have been about Internalized Racism, Hate Crimes, the interview with Hosea Williams, The Rare Speeches of Dr King, and the stories of Shelley’s life in music and the Chitlin' Circuit.
So today, to kick off the New Year in style, we’re going to rebroadcast the episode of The Last Interview with Eddie Kendricks, the lead singer for The Temptations.
"The Colored Doctor," Dr Cashen
In this episode, we continue our conversation from last week, when Shelley and Ezekwa discuss the effects of the Willie Lynch letter with Dr Cashen, a one-time candidate for governor of Alabama on the independent ticket.
Ezekwa Abdullah Discusses Willie Lynch in the Late 90s
Today we pick up on the theme of the Willie Lynch letter, but in a different time and place. Stay tuned as we hear an interview from 1997 with Ezekwa Abdullah.
The Legend of Willie Lynch.
Whether the Willie Lynch letter is real or not, the content of the message remains very much intact today. Seeding division among an audience is a way to get them fighting amongst themselves, which makes them easier to control from the outside. Today, Shelley takes a look at the continuing impact of that strategy on the world.
George Subira: Teaching Black People to Sell.
Today, Shelley continues his search for the truth on the topic of selling. It is often an occupation that is looked on with disdain, yet nothing can happen without it. Whether it’s an idea or a product, we are all selling something.
The Immigration Story of George Sarris.
Today, Shelley shares an interview from 1991 with George Sarris. Mr. Sarris was an immigrant from Greece who eventually developed a small empire of seafood restaurants in and around the Birmingham, Alabama, area. He discusses how the Greek community worked together to help each other grow and prosper.
Season 7:
This is a very special season for us. As we march toward September (Shelley's Birthday), we will be recounting events from his life, how they compare to the events of today, and what we can all learn about what is to come. Listen, learn and share your thoughts with us by responding on this website or on social media.
We've got new content for you every Wednesday. Make sure you subscribe!
Follow us and continue the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Charles Gray and the Re-Education of Our Children.
This week, Shelley once again shines the light on the importance of education as he shares a recording from 1991 of a speech given by Charles Gray on the Re-Education of our Children.
Bubba's Sacrifice, Georgia Price and Voting Rights.
As election week finally rolls around, Shelley recalls the ultimate sacrifice that was made by his bother Jerome in Korea. He also talks about Georgia Price and others who, in the late 50s and mid-60s, paved the way for the movement toward equality and human rights in the United States.
Shelley Stirs the Pot in the 60s.
In this week’s episode, Shelley explains the real meaning behind equality. Plus, he shares some stores from early in his career, including an encounter with the Ku Klux Klan. Stay tuned.
Shelley Gets Arrested in Jackson, Mississippi.
Today, Shelley continues sharing anecdotes from his life. This week, he tells us about the time he was arrested when he took a job in Jackson, Mississippi.
Shelley Builds A Business.
In this week’s episode, Shelley recalls how he evolved from his role beyond an on-air personality, developing the key relationships that set the foundation for his future as a businessman.
"The Playboy" Fights for Human Rights.
This week, Shelley expands on the story of his growing popularity as a radio personality. He fought for equality in access and pay at the radio stations where he worked. And he shares stories about meeting and working with Dr King well before he was well-known. Stay tuned and learn more about Shelley’s ongoing struggle for equality and human rights.
The Playboy In His Prime.
Shelley's popularity grew in strength and numbers as his fresh style and approach paid off as he began to dominate the airwaves in Birmingham, Alabama, in the mid-1950s.
The Birth of Shelley "The Playboy."
As we celebrate Shelley’s 90th birthday this week, Shelley shares an episode in his life that marks the birth of Shelley “The Playboy.” It was while he was in the Air Force that Shelley first began to develop his well-known radio persona. Stay tuned.
Escape from Mississippi
In this week’s episode, Shelley talks about a daring escape where Shelley recused his brothers Sam and Dave from a plantation in Mississippi.
A Reunion with Bubba and Some Trouble With A Gun
As we continue our march towards Shelley’s 90th birthday, Shelley shares some stories about his first experience with journalism, public speaking and broadcasting. He shares how he ran into some trouble with one of the gangs at high school and how he had a second reunion with his oldest brother, Bubba.
Shelley Heads to High School.
As we enter September and get closer to Shelley’s 90th birthday celebration, we explore the ironic challenges Shelley faced. He lived with an aunt and uncle who continually tried to discourage him from getting an education. Stay tuned and learn how he persevered.
Shelley's Life: Shelley Learns His Name is Shelley.
Did you know when Shelley was growing up, he thought his name was Shurley? Stay tuned and learn how Shelley learned his name was Shelley.
Shelley's Life: Back with Aunt Mamie.
We continue sharing the story of Shelley’s life as we get closer to the celebration of his 90th birthday in September. In this week’s episode, Shelley describes life after he is taken back to his Aunt Mamie and Uncle Henry’s house.
1947: The Year Everything Changed for Shelley.
So far, we’ve followed Shelley from living on a screened-in porch to living in a horse stable with his brother Bubba and then to the basement of Clyde Smith’s home. In today’s episode, Shelley talks about the year 1947 and how it changed everything.
Shelley Learns About Black and White Cultures in the 1940s
In this week’s episode, Shelley discusses how there were two curriculums. The one he was taught in the negro school, and the one he shared with Mary Sue Smith, Clyde Smith’s daughter. Even though she was a polio victim she somehow got a hold of books and magazines from the white school and shared them with Shelley. Listen to find out how Shelley learned about both black and white cultures in Birmingham, Alabama in the mid-40s.
A Decade at a Time: The Last Words of Mattie C. Stewart
Hey, Plumbliners. Yes, we received all your texts and emails telling us that we missed an episode last Wednesday.
Thanks for noticing. You’re right. We didn’t publish last Wednesday, but that’s because we held off this week’s episode to release a very special edition of Shelley’s Plumbline.
Today is Sunday, August 4, 2024. It is exactly 85 years to the day that Mattie C Stewart passed away. Shelley was just 5 years old when he saw his father murder his mother. Who would have thought in 1939 that 85 years later, Shelley would pay tribute to his mother on a podcast. Mattie C, with love and gratitude, we dedicate this episode to you.
A Decade at a Time: Shelley Learns About Life from Clyde Smith
In this episode, Shelley continues sharing the profound influence that Clyde Smith had on his life while he was growing up in segregated Birmingham. Mr. Smith, a white man, took Shelley into his home when he was a young child.
Mr. Smith taught Shelley some key secrets to life and that to be respected, one had to give respect first.
A Decade at a Time: More About the Smith Family
In this week’s episode, we continue sharing Shelley’s life story a decade at a time leading up to his 90th birthday. Today, Shelley tells us about his life with the Smith family, how he lived in a basement and continued his studies at Irondale Elementary.
A Decade at a Time: Shelley leaves the Stables
Today we continue telling Shelley’s life story, one decade at a time. Let’s head out to the back porch and head back to the 1930s and 40s in Birmingham, Alabama and talk about Shelley’s life with the Smith family.
A Decade at a Time: Shelley's Life in the 1930s
Hello, Plumbliners, and welcome to Season 7 of Shelley’s Plumbline.
So Shelley and I looked at the calendar, and we realized that by the time we finish this season, we will be close to Shelley’s 90th birthday. So, in season seven, we will take you to the back porch and take you through Shelley’s life, one decade at a time. Today, we’ll look at Shelley’s life in the 30s.
A Decade at a Time: Shelley's Life in the 1930s
Hello, Plumbliners, and welcome to Season 7 of Shelley’s Plumbline.
So Shelley and I looked at the calendar, and we realized that by the time we finish this season, we will be close to Shelley’s 90th birthday. So, in season seven, we will take you to the back porch and take you through Shelley’s life, one decade at a time. Today, we’ll look at Shelley’s life in the 30s.
Season 6:
A. H. Parker High School 100th Anniversary Dedication Speech
Hey, Plumbliners. In the year 2000, Shelley gave a speech at AH Parker High School in Birmingham, Alabama, on the occasion of the school’s 100th anniversary. This is the very same school that Shelley graduated from. This is the school where Shelley began his career in journalism, broadcasting, and performing. Today we feature a recording of that speech.
A meeting with a Grand Knight of the KKK, A Minister of the Nation of Islam and the Executive Director of the National Conference of Christians and Jews
In 1993, Shelley hosted the Shelley Stewart Show, Survival in the 90s. It was a talk show on television that ran for 13 episodes. Today, we feature the audio from an extraordinary episode that featured a conversation with three very different people on the same stage.
The discussion featured Lamarse Washington, Executive Director of the National Conference of Christians and Jews, William Muhammad, Minister of Nation of Islam and on the other end of the spectrum, William Burchfield, Grand Titan of Alabama for the Knights of the Ku Klux Klan.
Can you imagine a more diverse group in one place? We believe that you’ll discover the topics between then and today are not that different. But we wonder, could people of such diverse opinions share a stage with civility and respect today? Stay tuned…
Back Porch: Race, Racism and Happiness
ey, Plumbliners. This is Mark Jamroz, producer of Sheley’s Plumbline. Today, Shelley and I sit down for another edition of the “Back Porch.” Think of it as “Shelley Unplugged” as we discuss a few of our experiences learning about race and racism. Then we touch upon the topic of happiness. Stayed tuned. I think you’re really going to like it.
Black Republicans
Today, Shelley takes on the tough topic of black participation in politics as he interviews Raynard Jackson. At the time of the interview in 1998, Mr Jackson was Chairman of the Americans for a Brighter Future and an outspoken black Republican.
Freeborn Slave: Diary of a Black Man in the South
Today, Shelley shares an interview with Birmingham resident Karen Ameen.
The interview took place in 1996, shortly after Ms. Ameen published the book Freeborn Slave, Diary of a Black Man in the South.
The book is a collection of memoirs dictated by her great-grandfather, Jasper Rastus Nall, an individual who was born at the end of the Civil War.
Internalized Racism (Rebroadcast)
Hey, Plumbliners...
Shelley was feeling a bit under the weather this week, so he asked me to find one of your favorite episodes of Shelley's Plumbline and rebroadcast it.
Well, it turns out our very first episode was one of the most popular, and we released it a little over one year ago. Happy Anniversary to us!
Please enjoy -- and be informed! This is a powerful episode about Internalized Racism.
Enjoy!
An Interview with Fred Shuttlesworth.
Today, Shelley shares a very special interview from 1991 with the one-and-only Fred Shuttlesworth.
Reverend Shuttlesworth co-founded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and was instrumental in the 1963 Birmingham Campaign with Martin Luther King.
Shuttlesworth participated in the sit-ins against segregated lunch counters in 1960 and took part in the organization and execution of the Freedom Rides in 1961. Shuttlesworth invited the SCLC and MLK to Birmingham in 1963 to lead the campaign to desegregate it through mass demonstrations–what Shuttlesworth called "Project C." The "C" stood for "confrontation".
In 1965, he was active in the Selma Voting Rights Movement and its march from Selma to Montgomery, which led to the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
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The Genocide of Black Culture.
This week’s episode draws on an interview from 1991 with playwright Edward McRay.
He goes deep into the finer points of African culture, history, and the limits of the American educational system. Cultures must share their histories to increase understanding.
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Excerpts from the Inside Out Documentary.
Today we have a very special edition of Shelley’s Plumbline.
In 2002, Shelley visited two prisons in Alabama and spoke with inmates about their stories and turned it into the documentary Inside Out. And those stories speak for themselves. They are powerful. They are moving. They are profound. Stay tuned.
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The Back Porch: Instinct and the Inner Voice.
Hello, Plumbliners, and welcome to Season 6 of Shelley’s Plumbline.
Shelley and I have been talking about changing the format of the Plumbline for some time, so we thought today we would give that a try.
We call this format The Back Porch. Think of it as “Shelley Unplugged.”
Today, Shelley and I are going to discuss instinct and the inner voice that guides us through our lives.
Follow us and continue the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Season 5:
Some states are afraid to teach history. We're not. Season 5 will focus on the tough topics some states are afraid to teach. But don't get us wrong. We do it not to threaten, not to scare, but to share.
Ignoring our history does not make it go away. When we face the truth, we are all stronger for it.
We've got new content for you every Wednesday. Make sure you subscribe!
Follow us and continue the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Your Vote is Your Voice. Are You a Democrat or a Republican?
So here we are – another major election is just half a year away.
Today’s podcast features a show from 1996. Stay tuned as Shelley explores the questions that remain the same then as they are today: What do you believe? Who do you support? Who will you vote for?
Your vote is your voice. If you do not speak, someone else will.
An interview with Park Scott on the Bahai Faith.
Today, Shelley shares an interview from 1991 with Park Scott, Senior. He discusses the Bahai Faith and how it seeks the oneness of humanity, the elimination of prejudice and a harmony between science and religion.
Wake Up, Everybody, Part 2.
By popular demand, Shelley and Teddy Pendergrass continue to share the message: Wake Up, Everybody.
Wake Up, Everybody.
Today, Shelley shares a simple message. Wake up everybody. It’s time to think ahead. Wake Up, Everybody. The time is now.
Did Malcolm X Teach Us Something or Are We Doing the Same Thing Now?
Today, we share Malcolm X's famous Ballots or Bullets address. The message rings true: The key to freedom lies in economic prosperity. Economic opportunity for all is the tide that will lift all boats.
Celebrating Powerful Women
Today Shelley celebrates National Women’s Month with some personal reflections on the strong women he has known in his life, from his mother Mattie C whom he saw murdered when he was five years old, to Oprah and Kamala Harris. Stay tuned as we celebrate the power of women.
Hate Crimes, Rebroadcast
Hey, Plumbliners…
Shelley has been in the hospital the past couple of weeks, so he asked me to rebroadcast a previous episode. I looked back in the archives at one of my favorites. It’s from episode 4 of season 1 and it features an interview with attorney Rodney Max discussing Hate Crimes. The original interview was broadcast in 1993, but the message is still very relevant today.
And if you’re so inclined send your thoughts and prayers to shelley@shelleysplumbline.com
Shelley Reflects on Black History Month and Racism in America
As we come to the end of Black History Month, Shelley looks back on the last three episodes and shares his personal insights on the overt and not so overt signs that racism are still evident in America today.
Stay tuned as the Plumbline seeks the truth.
Shelley Reflects on Black History Month and Racism in America
As we come to the end of Black History Month, Shelley looks back on the last three episodes and shares his personal insights on the overt and not so overt signs that racism are still evident in America today.
Stay tuned as the Plumbline seeks the truth.
Excerpts from "Remembering Slavery."
Today we continue telling more stories of Black history, as we share an excerpt from the recording, “Remembering Slavery: African Americans Talk About Their Personal Experiences of Slavery and Emancipation,” published by The New Press, in conjunction with the Library of Congress and the Smithsonian Institution. Stay tuned and you’ll hear the words of actual slaves performed by well-known actors.
Early Slave Rebellions.
Hey, Plumbliners. Before we begin with this week’s episode, we’d like to thank you for the emails!
We received an email from a teacher in Washington state. She says, … My class has been learning about the Children's March recently, and one student asked whatever happened to Shelley the Playboy after watching the documentary "Mighty Times." That led us to some internet research, which led to finding this podcast and website. When we discussed what we value enough to risk getting in trouble to defend it, many kids mentioned both Freedom and Music; it's no wonder they find an activist like Mr. Stewart so appealing.” the teacher added “We wanted to say thank you to Mr. Stewart for his work during The Children's March. I want to say, as an educator of color, how thankful and inspired I am by his work and the way he was able to reach children and support them in their activism. …I plan to let my class know about this podcast and might write to you again if they have questions. I'm excited to learn more about this podcast and the other great work Mr. Stewart has done throughout his life, and I'm grateful to my inquisitive students for giving me the start!
Well students in Washington state, Shelley would love to meet with you on a Zoom call sometime. And teacher? Keep up the good work. We love what you’re doing.
Another email from EA says…
Mr. Stewart, thank you for all you have done throughout the years. As a child I listened to you everyday on the radio. I'm 62 years old now ,and one day I would like to meet you.
And JF says
This article of Shelley the Playboy brings memories of my youth. I listen to you everyday growing up. I WOULD LOVE TO MEET YOU AND SIT DOWN TO A CUP OF COFFEE.
Well, we’ll work on those meetings. In the meantime, the one and only, one-time Shelley "The Playboy" is still on the air on Shelley’s Plumbline.
Thank you for your messages and words of support!
In this week’s Plumbline features an interview from 1995 with Azikwe Abdullah. Azikwe acknowledges that Nat Turner’s slave rebellion is the one history books talk about, but Azikwe reveals that there were many slave rebellions before that time. Stay tuned as the Plumbline seeks the truth.
Horace Huntley and the Dangers of Cultural Annihilation.
Here at the beginning of Black History Month, we welcome you to Season 5 of Shelley’s Plumbline. Since it is Black History Month, Shelley and I did some research. According to a recent article in Axios, “…lawmakers in 30 states have proposed new restrictions during the past year on what schools can teach about the nation's racial history…”
According to the74million.org ...18 (states) have passed laws restricting or banning the teaching of supposed critical race theory…”
So we decided, if these states won’t teach Black History, we will. And let us make one thing clear--we do not do this to stir up anger or hatred, because as Dr. King said, “Hate cannot drive out hate.”
We share this message to further understanding among all peoples. Ignoring our history does not make it go away. Appreciating the background of all fosters progress and prosperity for all. There’s your side, there’s my side and some where in the middle, the plumbline finds the truth.
Today’s episode re-broadcasts a 1997 interview with Horace Huntley, former professor of Social and Behavioral Sciences at UAB. He touches on the dangers of cultural annihilation and how that has limited the growth of our country. Tune in and learn more.
~ Mark Jamroz
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Shelley's Life in Music: Stories About the Godfather of Soul, James Brown.
Today we bring Season 4 to an end as we shine the spotlight on the Godfather of Soul, James Brown. James was a controversial character to be sure, but he became good friends with Shelley and always admired Shelley’s belief in the power of education.
When James released the song Don’t Be A Dropout, he couldn’t wait to play it for Shelley and Shelley was one of the first to broadcast it on the air.
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Shelley's Life in Music: Stories About....Guess Who?
Since Shelley was a DJ and radio personality, he was instrumental in helping grow the careers of numerous well-known talented singers and musicians. During Season 4 we have covered stories about many of these musical giants who started as business associates of Shelley’s and blossomed into deep friendships.
We shared stories about BB King, Sam Cooke, and Johnnie Taylor. In episode 3, we talked about how Ray Charles drove a bus around the block in downtown Birmingham. Then, we heard touching stories about Lou Rawls and Bobby “Blue” Bland. And, of course, Shelley told us about his dear friend, Otis Redding.
Today, Shelley brings you more background about an often-overlooked musical talent – but we'll leave that introduction to Shelley. Tune in to find out who today's episode is about.
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Shelley's Life in Music: "The Big O," Otis Redding.
In today’s episode, we continue sharing stories from Shelley’s fascinating life in music as he tells us about his personal and professional relationship with Otis Redding.
Otis was a chauffeur for another band when he was discovered during a break at the recording studio in Muscle Shoals. Shelley was fortunate enough to be the first DJ to play Otis’s first recording on the air.
Their friendship grew, and Shelley left Radio for a while to become the PR Director for Otis’s Redwal Music Company in Macon, Georgia.
Stay tuned and learn more stories about the recording career and personal life of “The Big O,” Otis Redding.
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Hosea Williams: Did the Dream of Dr. King Become a Nightmare?
Hey Plumbliners. The theme of Season 4 has been about Shelley’s life in music. But this week, to honor Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday, we’re going to rebroadcast our podcast from Season 1 on Hosea Williams. Hosea Williams was a very close friend and associate of Dr King and was instrumental in organizing the Movement. Please enjoy this special episode.
Dr. King's legacy inspired generations of activists and leaders, and his contributions continue to be recognized and celebrated today as a beacon of hope and progress. But Dr. King had a premonition about his death, and he warned the members of his inner circle to beware of the tactics external forces would use to break the movement apart after he was gone.
As a member of the King's inner circle, Hosea Williams served as the advance man, organizing some of the most important events in the movement. Williams traveled to cities throughout the South, recruiting and organizing volunteers, paving the way for appearances by King, Jesse Jackson, and Andrew Young. Williams and John Lewis led the "Bloody Sunday" march in Selma, Alabama, in 1965.
This episode features an interview from September of 1994 with Shelley Stewart and Hosea Williams. Hosea reveals the dire warning King had for the members of his inner circle.
Was Hosea Williams right? Did the Dream of Dr. Martin Luther King Become a Nightmare? Listen and let us know what you think.
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Shelley's Life in Music: Bobby "Blue" Bland.
In this week’s episode, we continue exploring Shelley’s friendship with another major blues artist – Bobby “Blue” Bland, or “Blue” as Shelley called him.
Like many blues, soul and R&B artists, Shelley traces Blue’s work back to his Gospel roots. In fact, there are hints of those notes in many of his most popular songs.
Stay tuned and learn how Blue overcame personal obstacles, including illiteracy, to one day find a home in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
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Shelley's Reflections on Rosa Parks and the Rosa Parks Award.
On December 1, 2023, Shelley received the Rosa Parks Day Award for Leadership, Commitment to Civil Rights, Voting Rights, and Civic Service.
Rosa Parks Day is December 1st because that was the day, in 1955, when Rosa Parks was arrested for refusing to give up her seat on a segregated bus.
In today’s podcast, Shelley reflects on the award and on his own notoriety.
Rosa had heard the story of a black boy who had moved the plank dividing the white and black sections of a streetcar. Years later, when Rosa and Shelley met, she learned that Shelley was that young boy.
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Shelley's Life in Music: Lou Rawls, Did You Pray Today?
Today we continue to explore Shelley’s life in the music world as we take a look at Lou Rawls.
Lou, like Sam Cooke, was born and raised in the Chicago area and crossed paths with Sam Cooke as they sang in gospel groups before moving into R&B, Jazz, and Soul.
Since Shelley was a popular radio personality, he had a hand in promoting the careers of both Sam and Lou and they became fast friends when they met at performances.
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Shelley's Life in Music: A Slice of Soul Heaven with Johnnie Taylor.
Today, Shelley talks about his personal and professional friendship with the Philosopher of Soul, otherwise known as Johnnie Taylor.
As the PR director for Redwal Music Company, Shelley had the opportunity to spend time with Johnnie, as well as other music greats on that label, including Otis Redding. We’ll get to Otis in a future podcast.
Both Johnnie and Shelley shared a love of spiritual music, and Johnnie eventually had a successful career singing blues, R&B, and soul. Johnnie confessed to Shelley that, in spite of his musical career, he really wanted to be a disc jockey. He became a DJ known as “The Wailer, Johnnie Taylor” on KKDA in Dallas, Texas. Johnnie passed in the year 2000, just a few months after releasing one of his best-known songs, “Soul Heaven.”
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Shelley's Life in Music: Unknown Stories About Ray Charles.
We continue to explore Shelley’s life in music, as Shelley shares stories about his relationship with Ray Charles.
Ray is definitely an icon in the blues world, known for his trademark Ray Ban sunglasses. In fact, it’s generally acknowledged that Ray was the first blind musician to wear sunglasses, setting a trend for future musicians. But Ray will be the first to say he never saw his blindness as a handicap.
Many did not know Ray loved to play chess, and he owned his own plane and was fascinated by flying. He was even known to take a turn as a pilot now and then. And in today’s episode, Shelley recalls how Ray drove his own bus around the block in downtown Birmingham on a bet.
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Shelley's Life in Music: A Conversation About Sam Cooke
Today as we continue to explore Shelley’s life in music, we feature a conversation about Sam Cooke, one of Shelley’s dear friends.
In fact, Shelley was so close to him that Sam was the godfather to one of his children.
Aside from being a very good friend, Sam and Shelley shared the same mission: to use the power of music to bring people together. They both played to integrated audiences at a time when that was not acceptable. In fact, it could be dangerous to do that.
Sam was a trailblazer not only with his music but his approach. He believed the artist should own the rights to their music so he was one of the first to write, produce and distribute his own music.
Sam’s life ended tragically before his time in 1964 when he was shot at a hotel in Los Angeles.
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Shelley's Life in Music: Stories About Riley "B.B." King
Two of the most popular episodes of Shelley’s Plumbline were Episode 1 of Season 2, "The Final Interview with Eddie Kendricks." A lot of folks also liked Episode 2 of Season 2 … about Shelley’s life scouting for musical talent on the Chitlin' Circuit.
So to kick off Season Four, we’re going to give you more stories about Shelley’s life in music – this time with his friend, Riley King – or should we say, BB King. Yup, THE BB King.
Stay tuned. Give it a listen. We think you’re going to like it.
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An Open Forum Discussion on William Raspberry, Racism and Economic Power
From time to time, Shelley would conduct an open forum during his show, and listeners would call in. Today’s episode features a discussion from 1996 with Shelley and a listener regarding a speech given by William Raspberry, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist for the Washington Post. The discussion focuses on how racism is often used as an excuse or crutch against progress.
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Mayor Ford Talks About Redistricting in the 90s.
Today, we share an interview with Johnny Ford, the first African-American mayor of Tuskegee, Alabama. He served five terms from 1972 to 1996 when he won a seat in the Alabama House of Representatives. He was re-elected mayor of Tuskegee in 2004, and he served until 2008. This interview touches on the issues of gerrymandering and how it unfairly affects the representation of the population in today's America.
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Yvonne Willie, Author of The Boy Who Didn't Want to Be Black
Yvonne Willie, Author of The Boy Who Didn't Want to Be Black
Today’s episode features an interview from 1998 with the author of The Boy Who Didn’t Want to Be Black, Yvonne Willie.
She and Shelley discuss the role of racial identity and self-worth, revealing that internalized racism is a learned behavior.
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Today’s episode features an interview from 1998 with the author of The Boy Who Didn’t Want to Be Black, Yvonne Willie.
She and Shelley discuss the role of racial identity and self-worth, revealing that internalized racism is a learned behavior.
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An Interview with Tommy Wrenn, Foot Soldier in the Movement
Today we continue our exploration of one of the many organizers in the Movement who had great influence but were not as well-known. This episode features an interview from January of 1998 when Shelley sat down with Tommy Wrenn.
Active in the movement in both Birmingham and Selma, Wrenn worked as a field staffer for the Dr King's Southern Christian Leadership Conference.
Wrenn would go into towns to set up routes for protest marchers before King would arrive, doing the groundwork to make the event a success.
He expresses his frustration at the lack of support he received and how many people believed in the mission of the movement but stayed in the background.
Even after retiring as a dental technician, he remained active in politics and the movement until his death in 2010.
James Armstrong and His Story of the Integration of Graymont School
Dr. Vincent Harding Discusses The True Meaning of the Struggle.
Today, we feature an interview with author and historian Dr. Vincent Harding. A social activist, he was perhaps best known for his work with and writings about Martin Luther King Jr., whom Harding knew personally.
In this episode, Dr Harding sits down with Shelley and talks about not only the Black struggle – but how several different vectors of society then, as now, are engaged in a struggle for freedom.
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Uncovering The Movement:
An Interview With
Rev. N. H. "Fireball" Smith
In this episode, Shelley shares an interview from January 1993 with Rev. Nelson H. Smith, also known as "Fireball" Smith. Smith was another unknown yet highly influential foot soldier in the fight for human rights for all, participating in The Movement before the 1960s and marching side by side with Dr. King during the '60s.
Throughout his ministry, Smith preached the importance of higher education, financial management, and economics. He founded the New Pilgrim Credit Union in 1965 and led his church in the development of a bookstore and the New Pilgrim Towers apartments, to name a few of his accomplishments.
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Happy 89th Birthday to Shelley Stewart!
Today, we celebrate Shelley's 89th birthday with a recording of a speech Shelley made when he was 63 years old at Friendship Baptist Church.
This Church plays a special role in Shelley's life. As a boy of five, he saw his mother murdered just a few blocks away. In spite of growing up without his parents, he would celebrate his graduation in this same Church.
Without a doubt, the Friendship Baptist Church has held a special place in Shelley's heart. In today's podcast, he shares a message that he's shared all his life.
A message that tells hard truths but also triumphs love, mutual respect, and human rights for ALL people and that faith is the power that enables the unlikely to accomplish the impossible.
Today's episode is a heartfelt message from Shelley, one of faith. What we know is if you lose faith, you lose all.
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Yvonne Turner: A True
Human Rights Shero
This week, Shelley continues to explore some of the lesser-known yet powerful foot soldiers in the Movement.
One such person is Yvonne Turner.
Who is Yvonne Turner? Well, well before the Human Rights Movement of the 60s, the true Movement began in the mid-1950s, and people like Yvonne Turner, Georgia Price, and others were instrumental in organizing voter education drives and meetings. Visit shelleysplumbline.com to see one of the voter education documents Yvonne created and shared so Blacks could be prepared to answer questions in order to vote.
She was often referred to as the most loved and hated woman in Birmingham because she helped the Movement so much but also spoke to a truth that many would rather not hear.
Rare Speeches of
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
To kick off Season 3 of Shelley's Plumbline, we went through his archives, and Shelley rediscovered some rare recordings of #MLK that he had forgotten about.
These are speeches MLK made in Birmingham! Why are they rare? Because for his protection and to keep Bull Conner guessing, Dr. King would often show up to churches unannounced to make speeches.
Shelley Stewart was in attendance recording the choir when Dr. King showed up. They left the recorder running when he made these speeches. You can hear them both in this week's podcast.
Very timely given that September 15 is the anniversary of bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church.
In Season 3, Shelley sets the record straight on the "Movement" and how only the media and politicians called it the "Civil Rights Movement." It was, and is, a Movement for the freedom of all people.
Please listen, and if you are so moved, share it with others.
The Plantation Ghost
Today Shelley shares an interview from 1995 with Ezekwa Abdullah. Ezekwa argues that Blacks still repress themselves and suffer a form of psychological slavery in the collective subconscious psyche because attitudes of repression have been preserved and passed from one generation to the next. The ghost of the plantation exists today because not enough has been done to condemn this point of view.
Free By Choice Inmates Share Their Stories
Today, Shelley replays an interview from the Free By Choice program, which brought inmates from Alabama prisons on the air to speak openly about their crimes and the decisions which led to them. These Free By Choice inmates had a strong desire to share their stories so their suffering could serve to help others avoid making the same mistakes.
Shelley Stewart
