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From the Archives: Soul Musician Curtis Mayfield Looks Back on His Career.

Curtis Mayfield. He's been called "the thinking man's soul man." He's known for his floating falsetto voice, gospel sound, and social commentary. He was with the group, "The Impressions" for 12 years recording such classics as "Gypsy Woman," "I'm so Proud," and "People Get Ready." After that he went solo. His score for "Superfly," was considered a musical breakthrough, and has inspired many of today's hip-hop performers. Mayfield was preparing for a comeback, with the release of "Return of Superfly," in 1990, when a freak stage accident left him paralyzed from the neck down. Mayfield's soundtrack for "Superfly" has just been re-released. (Rebroadcast of 3/23/1993)

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Other segments from the episode on December 12, 1997

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, December 12, 1997: Interview with Maurice Sedak; Interview with Curtis Mayfield; Review of the film "Amistad"; Interview with Johnny Adams.
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17:59

From the Archives: Children's Book Writer and Illustrator Maurice Sendak.

Artist, writer and designer Maurice Sendak. Sendak has written and illustrated such classic children's books as "Where the Wild Things Are," "In The Night Kitchen," and "Inside Over There." Time magazine has said, "For Sendak, visiting the land of the very young is not something that requires a visa. He is a permanent citizen." Where the Wild Things Are was adapted into an opera, and Sendak designed the sets and costumes for the premiere production. He's since designed several other operas and ballets.

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07:21

Rhythm and Blues Singer Johnny Adams

Adams was one of songwriter Doc Pomus' favorite singers. He recorded a collection of Doc Pomus songs, "Johnny Adams sings Doc Pomus: The Real Me." His most recent album is "One Foot in the Blues" (Rounder) as well as a new Christmas album. Recently Adams, who is 66, was diagnosed with prostate cancer, and he underwent major surgery. Three concerts have been held recently on his behalf to help pay for his medical costs. (Rebroadcast)

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Transcripts are created on a rush deadline, and accuracy and availability may vary. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Please be aware that the authoritative record of Fresh Air interviews and reviews are the audio recordings of each segment.

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Soul Musician Curtis Mayfield Looks Back on His Career

Mayfield has been called "the thinking man's soul man." He's known for his floating falsetto voice, gospel sound, and social commentary. He was with the group, "The Impressions" for 12 years recording such classics as "Gypsy Woman," "I'm so Proud," and "People Get Ready." His score for "Superfly," was considered a musical breakthrough, and has inspired many of today's hip-hop performers.

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The Measure of Sam Cooke's 'Triumph'

Biographer Peter Guralnick's new book is Dream Boogie: The Triumph of Sam Cooke. Guralnick follows the life of rhythm and blues legend Sam Cooke from his roots in gospel music through his legendary career as a singer and songwriter whose hits include "You Send Me," "Only Sixteen" and many others.

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