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'Blues City: A Walk in Oakland' Oakland is often viewed as the city that sits in the shadow of San Francisco, but the city has its own very rich cultural heritage. A new book by Ishmael Reed, Blues City: A Walk in Oakland, takes a look at Oakland's history. Reed uncovers the city's connection with the Gold Rush, and he offers a profile of Mayor Jerry Brown and an exploration of a contemporary Japanese jazz club. NPR's Tavis Smiley talks with Reed about the book and the city it profiles.

'Blues City: A Walk in Oakland'

Heard on The Tavis Smiley Show

'Blues City: A Walk in Oakland'

Only Available in Archive Formats.

Oakland is often viewed as the city that sits in the shadow of San Francisco, but the city has its own very rich cultural heritage. A new book by Ishmael Reed, Blues City: A Walk in Oakland, takes a look at Oakland's history. Reed uncovers the city's connection with the Gold Rush, and he offers a profile of Mayor Jerry Brown and an exploration of a contemporary Japanese jazz club. NPR's Tavis Smiley talks with Reed about the book and the city it profiles.

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