A review of the interview
The interview is a valuable primary source that not only provides facts, but also brings to life the personality and interpersonal dynamics surrounding Mahalia Jackson. It also appears to be the only audio recording preserved by Mildred Falls.
Mildred Falls proves to be a committed and detailed storyteller. Her anecdotes are colorful and full of emotion, ranging from laughter at Mahalia's quirks to genuine fear, for example during the events in Montgomery. She has a remarkable ability to remember small details (e.g., the bellboys in Denmark, the telephone on the train platform), which lends authenticity to her stories. Her laughter and direct manner ("Pretty good") make the interview personal and charming. You can feel her deep connection and affection for Mahalia, even when she humorously highlights her quirks.
The interview confirms and deepens the image of Mahalia Jackson as an extraordinary and unconventional artist.
Musical genius
Her ability to never sing songs the same way twice and to change keys spontaneously is evidence of immense musical intuition and a deep need for expression that went beyond fixed arrangements. This also explains Mildred's challenge and her need to attune herself completely to Mahalia.
Challenge and encouragement
Mahalia's sparse praise ("Pretty good") shows her high standards, but also her indirect encouragement to keep improving. Her confidence in Mildred's abilities and teaching methods ("When you teach them, I know they can sing") underscores a deep mutual respect.
Human traits
Mahalia's fear of flying, which she only overcomes thanks to "Aunt Hannah's blessing," and her seasickness, for which she blamed Mildred, paint a very human, approachable picture of the icon. Her role as an "angel of peace" in Paris also demonstrates her charisma and ability to bring people together.
The interview offers rare insights into the logistics and challenges of touring during this period.
Travel conditions
The descriptions of train journeys, the ship "SS United States" and the transfers between these modes of transport give a sense of the travel options and hardships of the time.
Dangers and racism
The experiences in Montgomery and Lynchburg are harrowing and underscore the dangerous realities of the civil rights era for African American artists touring the South. Mildred's fear for her life and the bombing of the house where they were staying are stark reminders of the threats faced at the time.
Adaptability
The need to train local organists in Europe speaks to the adaptability of musicians and the efforts to spread gospel music internationally.
Laurraine Gorreau conducts the interview with a mixture of respect and familiarity. Her questions are focused and prompt Mildred to give detailed answers without interrupting her. The shared laughter and Gorreau's comments ("The best medicine you could have found") reveal a relaxed and trusting atmosphere that encourages Mildred to be open and personal. Gorreau's comments in brackets in the transcript (e.g., "LG note – incorrect") demonstrate her desire for accuracy and her own research.
The interview highlights the role of gospel music and its artists not only as entertainers, but also as agents of cultural and social change. The mention of the National Baptist Convention and the trip to Montgomery firmly positions Mahalia Jackson and Mildred Falls in the context of the African American church and civil rights movements.
Overall, the interview with Mildred Falls is a rich and moving source that offers a rare personal glimpse behind the scenes of a music legend and her closest companion. It emphasizes not only musical brilliance, but also the human facets, challenges, and deep loyalty in the world of gospel.
©Thilo Plaesser