In this multimedia talk and presentation, Pollak/Price will discuss, in the context of his personal odyssey: the history and current state of blues and blues-based American music; the process of writing and performing songs; criteria for excellence in songwriting, performance, and professional conduct; canonical conventions and oral traditions that enable musicians and singers to interoperate; similarities and differences between managing bands and managing knowledge workers; and the advantages and disadvantages for artists of having unrelated day jobs.

Billy Price’s latest recording, a collaboration with Chicago soul/gospel singer Otis Clay titled “This Time for Real” is the 14th release of his career. In May 2015, the first month of its release, the recording was #11 on the Living Blues Magazine Radio Charts.