Camille Livingston is the reserved, sheltered only child and daughter of prosperous African American parents in New Orleans.

Then, on her 21st birthday, she is attended to at a gas station by Billy Ryan Gallo, a mechanic during the day who turns out to be a blues musician at night.

When Camille shows up at Thelma's Bar later that evening, Billy formally introduces himself and then serenades her from the stage, much to her surprise and the amusement of her roommates.

After a short conversation, Billy invites both to Thelma's Bar the following evening, but Calvin declines saying he will be out of town.

The night sees Camille and Billy visiting clubs, riding around, laughing, dancing and being very free and comfortable with each other.

They then go to a club where she is handed a mic and spontaneously sings with a powerful voice that leaves Billy awed.

As the chemistry between the two heats up, Camille retreats back to her safe world and Billy, respecting her decision, asks if she would consider singing in his new band.

With this sudden change in her life, Camille realises that she wants to continue working with the inner city children and not head off to some college to pursue a career in medicine.

Overwhelmed by the pressure and her parents’ happiness, Camille agrees to marry Calvin and opts out of her desired career choice.