i think most black americans, including myself have a deep sense of connection to the south. so i'm here in mississippi as sort of a pilgrimage, to find the roots of the things i hold most sacred. i'm starting out in the middle of nowhere, lorman, mississippi. here at the old country store the legendary author davis is cooking up his friday chicken and getting ready for the afternoon rush. >> they call me mr. d. i am the chicken cooking king. this old building is over 100 years old. it's old country style. i bought this old building for a song and a dance, and i've been dancing and singing ever since i bought it. >> the buffet is very dangerous. there is no portion control. >> i'm ready to dive in. >> this is my first meal in mississippi. so i'm going with the classics, fried chicken and collards, cornbread and sweet potatoes. >> you know you're in the right spot. there is no marshmallows or yams.