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Oral Histories

The SFA oral history program documents life stories from the American South. Collecting these stories, we honor the people whose labor defines the region.

ORAL HISTORY

Janis Jordan, customer

Bully's Restaurant

Janis Jordan is a longtime customer at Bully’s Restaurant. She was introduced to the place by a friend over 20 years ago, and made it a habit to visit at least 2 or 3 times a month. Janice has lived places other than Jackson, but she returned to the city to help care for her parents. For a living, she makes soap that she sells at local markets and also does some web design. Janis is also a musician and performs in the small front room at Bully’s every Friday afternoon. Whether customers want to hear Aretha Franklin, Luther Vandross, or Patsy Cline, Janis obliges. She’s a one-woman act, playing guitar or using background tracks from her iPhone to support her vocals. She’s been doing this for 6 months and, despite what she terms a “tough crowd,” she returns each week to volunteer her talents for the benefit of Bully’s regulars. And, of course, for her own benefit: a delicious soul food lunch.

Date of interview:
2014-04-11

Interviewer:
Mary Beth Lasseter

Photographer:
Mary Beth Lasseter

Download Transcript

“

"If you grew up eating soul food, it actually is a big challenge to your grandmother’s or your mother’s cooking. It’s just amazing. I find myself having to just almost put a chain and lock around my mouth to keep from eating everything." ~Janis Jordan

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The Southern Foodways Alliance drives a more progressive future by leading conversations that challenge existing constructs, shape perspectives, and foster meaningful discussions. We reconsider the past with research, scrutiny, and documentation.

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