In the inaugural episode of Pardo's Turn, Broadway legend Chuck Cooper, best known for his Tony Award-winning performance in THE LIFE sings the iconic "Ol' Man River" from the groundbreaking 1927 musical SHOW BOAT. The analysis centers on the use of the pentatonic scale, and some clever reharmonizations. Chuck and I discuss the historical significance of the song, and his personal journey with it, especially in relation to the Paul Robeson lyrics, which he sang for its rendition in PRINCE OF BROADWAY.