Episode 1: B.J. Thomas
B.J. has recorded an incredible string of successes in several genres. Some of his million-selling hits include "Hooked On A Feeling," "I Just Can't Help Believin'," "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry," "Eyes of a New York Woman," and his signature song, "Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head," which won an Oscar for Best Song at the 1970 Academy Awards. Today B.J. performs over 100 concerts a year around the world.
Episode 2: Phoebe Snow
A veteran of 15 albums, Phoebe burst onto the music scene in the 70s when her first hit single "Poetry Man" went gold. Her first album titled "Phoebe Snow" became one of the most acclaimed debut records of all time, earning her a Grammy Award Nomination for Best New Artist. Phoebe was discovered in 1974 while performing in a Greenich Village coffeehouse. Some 30 years later, Phoebe has recently released her newest CD titled "Natural Wonder," her first since 1998.
Episode 3: Jay Thomas
Jay won a Best Supporting Actor Emmy in 1991 for his performance as the caustic talk show host on the hit series "Murphy Brown." Here Jay talks about getting his first big TV break in 1978 when he was cast on the popular ABC sitcom "Mork and Mindy." And his three seasons on "Cheers" playing Carla's hockey goalie ex-husband. Jay has also had a very successful radio career here in New York City.
Episode 4: Sandy Duncan
Known for her versatility, Sandy earned three Tony nominations including one for her unforgettable role as Peter Pan on Broadway. Sandy also received Emmy nominations for her performances in the historical TV mini- series "Roots" and one for her very own sitcom "Funny Face" in the 70s.
In her late teens Sandy Duncan made her way to New York City to pursue a career on Broadway - she was an instant hit, earning roles in "Carousel," "The Music Man," and "Canterbury Tales."
Episode 5: Isaac Hayes
Soul legend and Rock N' Roll Hall of Fame inductee Isaac Hayes first reached superstar status back in the early 70s when his score to "SHAFT" nailed the Awards triple crown, taking an Oscar, two Grammies, and a Golden Globe. Isaac Hayes began his musical career at Stax Records in Memphis, where he co-wrote over 200 songs for legendary artists such as Otis Redding and Sam & Dave. Currently, Isaac is also the voice of "chef" on the hit animated show "South Park," and his best selling book "Cooking with Heart & Soul" is now in its second printing.
Episode 6: Sheryl Lee Ralph
Sheryl has graced the Silver Screen, the Broadway stage and TV screens. Her breakthrough role came in the 80s when she earned a Tony nomination for her portrayal of Deena Jones in the musical "Dream Girls." In the 90s, Sheryl co-starred with Eddie Murphy in "Distinguished Gentleman" and appeared in several other films. She also found immense popularity on television in her role as the mother of Moesha (played by Brandy) in the UPN series also titled "Moesha." Recently, Sheryl Lee Ralph starred on Broadway in "Thoroughly Modern Millie."
Episode 7: Teddy Pendergrass
In the late 70s, Teddy became the first black male singer in history to record five consecutive multi platinum albums. At the height of his career, it would all come to a crashing halt. Pendergrass' life was changed dramatically when a horrifying auto accident left him paralyzed from the chest down and wheelchair bound. He would spend the next six months in the hospital. Teddy discusses the accident that changed his life forever, as well as his monumental comeback.
Episode 8: Julie Budd
Julie Budd's singing career has spanned more than 30 years: she was discovered as a child prodigy. During her career, she has worked with almost every major star of the generation before hers, including George Burns, Bob Hope, Jimmy Durante and Frank Sinatra. So taken by her talent, Merv Griffin had Julie appear on his show over 50 times. She also made 10 appearances on the Ed Sullivan show in the late 60s and 70s. Today, Julie continues to record and perform at many of the world's top venues.
Episode 9: Gloria Gaynor
This diva is known not only for her dynamic voice, but for the international disco anthem and Grammy Award winning, "I Will Survive." In 2002, Logic Records/BMG released "I Wish You Love," Gaynor's first worldwide release in 15 years. She's back- but she really hasn't been away - her music has been a constant on dance floors for more than three decades. Gloria Gaynor was the first to record an album especially for clubs, and the first to do a mega-extended dance medley party mix, releasing 12" dance singles that are now high-end collectors items.
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