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As the first chill of autumn crawls through the pines and smoke from the chimneys rises, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of chili and a skillet of cornbread to pull you back to a simpler time. But when Robbie Montgomery served up her cornbread to a hungry Tina Turner in the 1960s, it wasn’t just about feeding a legend—it was about preserving a piece of the South’s soul, a recipe passed down through hands that have felt joy, pain, and a touch of the unknown.

Look for Anne Byrn’s book, Baking in the American South, On Amazon.
Look for Robbie Montgomery’s book, Sweetie Pie’s Cookbook, on Amazon.

Velma’s Short intro  song.

Velma singing

French song

Disclaimer:

Cornbread & Buttermilk is all about sharing stories, traditions, and the wisdom of the Southern kitchen, but we are not medical professionals. The information shared in this episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult with your physician or a qualified healthcare provider before adding new foods, supplements, or home remedies to your routine—especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications. Listen to your body, trust your doctor, and enjoy the journey of good food and well-being!

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© [2025] Cornbread & Buttermilk Podcast. The original music of Velma Sugarcane Jones and Obe Monroe is the exclusive property of Cornbread & Buttermilk Podcast. All rights reserved.

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Title: Ragged and Dirty

Performed by: William Brown

Recorded by: Alan Lomax

From the album: Negro Blues and Hollers

Courtesy of: American Folklife Center, Library of Congress

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