Thomas Wiggins: Composing the Future [ASL + OC]

About the Episode

This version contains on-screen ASL interpretation and open captions. An African American composer and pianist known as one of the greatest musicians of the 19th century, Thomas Wiggins (1849-1908) was blind from birth and likely autistic. Although born into slavery, Wiggins was the first African American to perform at the White House, and toured throughout the U.S., South America, and Europe.

Aired: 10/21/24 | Expires: | Runtime: 13m 31s

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Extras

The success of Brenda Lee’s “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree”

Brenda Lee recorded “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree,” written by Johnny Marx, when she was 12.

1:28
Brenda Lee: Rockin’ Around [Extended Audio Description + OC]

Discover the life of singer Brenda Lee and her musical hits spanning genres and decades.

1:00:13
Brenda Lee: Rockin’ Around [ASL]

Discover the life of singer Brenda Lee and her musical hits spanning genres and decades.

52:55
Brenda Lee: Rockin’ Around (EAD + OC Trailer)

Discover the life of singer Brenda Lee and her musical hits spanning genres and decades.

3:31
Brenda Lee: Rockin’ Around (ASL Trailer)

Discover the life of singer Brenda Lee and her musical hits spanning genres and decades.

2:56
3 classic songs Brenda Lee performed as a teenager

These are 3 of Brenda's Lee most notable performances from Jubilee USA, also known as Ozark Jubilee.

7:16
theRing: I Am A Renegade [Official Music Video]

Official music video for "I Am A Renegade" by theRing, the theme song for "Renegades."

2:26
When Brenda Lee eloped with her husband

Brenda Lee met her husband Ronnie Shacklett at the age of 17 and eloped with him six months later.

2:35
How Brenda Lee's collaboration with producer Owen Bradley changed the course of her career

Owen Bradley, producer at Decca Records, took Brenda Lee under his wing and became a mentor to her.

2:21
Brenda Lee had a fully formed career before even signing a contract

Brenda Lee made appearances on television, radio and live shows all before she even signed a deal.

2:30