Thirty years after its publication, Geneva Smitherman's seminal work, "Talkin and Testifyin" continues to influence scholars, policymakers and practitioners. This article takes a look at Smitherman's work by first providing an overview of the sociolinguistic theoretical foundations that led to its publication. This is followed by a reception history of "Talkin and Testifyin"; first in general terms as a scholarly work followed by an examination of Smitherman's impact on a select group of disciplines. Finally, conclusions are presented that demonstrate how this important work has not only bridged scholarly disciplines, but also, extended the understanding of African American English to the world at large.