Billy Eckstine didn’t consider singing a potential profession until he earned $5 as second prize within an amateur competition. He was bit with the showbiz bug after operating as an MC and singer in his hometown of Pittsburgh while on summertime break from college. He decided not to return to college and eventually started working in clubs throughout Buffalo, NY; Detroit and Chicago.

Eckstine sat down with Wink Martindale for an interview in May of 1973. He discusses the early times of his profession, his recordings, live shows and like for what he does to make a living in this fascinating discussion.