A song first sung by enslaved people on southern plantations.

100 years later David Bowie made it his first single.

This film explores the remarkable journey of one of the most recorded, most beloved songs in American history. Fresh performances by contemporary musicians create a bold soundtrack, expanding the narrative around American music and inspiring new audiences.

 

Out now! Poor Gal: The Cultural History of Liza Jane
from University Press of Mississippi.

Cover of Poor Gal book by Dan Gutstein. Cover shows to historical photos in black and white of children playing.

The recipient of a 2024 Special Recognition Award from the ASCAP Foundation