List of Unsung episodes

The following is an episode list for Unsung, an American biography and documentary television series about R&B, Soul, Gospel, Rap and Reggae recording artists from the 1960s through the 1990s. The series is currently airing on TV One (US TV network).

List of episodes

Title Original Airdate Short Summary Notable Guest Appearances NOTES
Episode 1- "The Story of Phyllis Hyman" November 30, 2008 Documenting the rise and tribulation of the late R&B and Jazz recording artist Phyllis Hyman. Interviews with The Whispers, Regina Belle, Dyana Williams, David Nathan and Kenny Gamble. NOTE: Episode neglects to mention Hyman's appearance in the films Lenny (1974) and School Daze (1988).

NOTE: One of 4 episodes narrated by recording artist Al B. Sure!.

Episode 2- "The Gospel Truth w/ The Clark Sisters" December 1, 2008 Documenting the trials and careers of the gospel group The Clark Sisters. Interviews with Dorinda Clark-Cole, Regina Belle, Marvin Winans, and Charles Blake. NOTE: One of 4 episodes narrated by recording artist Al B. Sure!.
Episode 3- "The Story of Donny Hathaway" December 2, 2008 Documenting the rise and tribulation of the late influential Soul songwriter, composer, and recording artist Donny Hathaway. Interviews with The Whispers, Quincy Jones, Lalah Hathaway, Musiq, Dyana Williams, David Nathan and Jesse Jackson. NOTE: Episode neglects to mention Hathaway performed the theme song "And Then There's Maude (Maude's Theme)" for the television series Maude.

NOTE: One of 4 episodes narrated by recording artist Al B. Sure!.

Episode 4- "The DeBarge Family" December 3, 2008 Documenting the careers tribulations of the family R&B group The DeBarge Family. Interviews with Randy DeBarge, Chico DeBarge, Bunny DeBarge, Jermaine Jackson, Babyface (musician), David Nathan and Dyana Williams. NOTE: One of 4 episodes narrated by recording artist Al B. Sure!.

Season 2

Title Original Airdate Short Summary Notable Guest Appearances NOTES
Episode 5- "The Story of Minnie Riperton" June 7, 2009 Documenting the rise and finite career of late R&B recording artist Minnie Riperton. Interviews with Dick Rudolph, Sidney Barnes (of Rotary Connection), Joe Sample, Maya Rudolph, Ramsey Lewis, Q-Tip (of A Tribe Called Quest), and Dyana Williams. NOTE: The first episode of series regular narrator Gary Anthony Williams.
Episode 6- "The Story of Melba Moore" June 14, 2009 Documenting the rise and career of recording artist and actress Melba Moore. Interviews with Melba Moore, Nick Ashford, Valerie Simpson, Clifton Davis, and Dyana Williams.
Episode 7- "The Story of Shalamar" June 21, 2009 Documenting the rise and turbulent career of R&B group Shalamar. Interviews with Micki Free, Jody Watley, Howard Hewett, Jeffrey Daniel, and Leon Sylvers III. NOTE: Group member Jody Watley has been negatively critical of the portrayal of the group's tensions in this episode.[1]
Episode 8- "The Story of Florence Ballard" June 28, 2009 Documenting the rise and tribulation of late R&B recording artist Florence Ballard. Interviews with Nelson George, Otis Williams, Mary Wilson (singer) (of The Supremes), Dyana Williams, and Janie Bradford. NOTE: Florence Ballard was an original member of the Motown group The Supremes.

NOTE: The character Effie White from the musical Dreamgirls is loosely based on Ballard.[2]

Episode 9- "The Story of Teena Marie" November 1, 2009 Documenting the rise and career of the late recording artist Teena Marie. Interviews with Teena Marie, Smokey Robinson, Nelson George, Berry Gordy, George Duke, Faith Evans, Dick Rudolph, Dyana Williams, and Maxine Waters. NOTE: One of the last interviews Teena Marie made. She died December 26, 2010.
Episode 10- "The Story of Bootsy Collins" November 8, 2009 Documenting the rise and career of funk superstar Bootsy Collins. Interviews with Bootsy Collins, George Clinton (musician) (of Parliament-Funkadelic), and Snoop Dogg.
Episode 11- "The Story of Klymaxx" November 15, 2009 Documenting the rise and careers of all-female funk band Klymaxx. Interviews with Bernadette Cooper, Cheryle Cooley, Robin Gridder, Lynn Malsby, Joyce Irby, Lorena Stewart, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, and Dyana Williams.
Episode 12- "The Story of Zapp & Roger" November 22, 2009 Documenting the rise and tribulation of influential funk band Zapp and leading recording artist Roger Troutman. Interviews with Gregory Jackson (singer/songwriter), Ricardo Brey, Big Robb, Dale DeGroat, (of Zapp & Roger), Mark "Drac" Hicks (of Slave), Nelson George, Shirley Murdock, Tech N9ne, DJ Quik, and Snoop Dogg.

Season 3

Title Original Airdate Short Summary Notable Guest Appearances NOTES
Episode 13- "The Story of Rose Royce" March 22, 2010 Documenting the rise and career of the R&B group Rose Royce. Interviews with Kenny Copeland, Gwen Dickey, Lequeint "Duke" Jobe, and Joe Harris (of The Undisputed Truth).
Episode 14- "The Story of Sylvester" March 29, 2010 Documenting the rise and short-lived career of the late disco recording artist Sylvester. Interviews with Anita Pointer (of The Pointer Sisters), Walter Hawkins, Martha Wash, Dyana Williams, and Narada Michael Walden.
Episode 15- "Unsung Uncut" April 5, 2010 Features full-length performances from the artists featured on the series. Performances of Teena Marie w/ Rick James (“Sucka For Your Love”), Bootsy Collins (“Ain't It Funky Now”), Klymaxx (“Meeting In the Ladies Room”), Rose Royce (“Car Wash”), Debarge (“I Like It”), Minnie Riperton (“Lovin' You”), and Sylvester (“Dance”).
Episode 16- "The Story of Stacy Lattisaw" April 12, 2010 Documenting the rise and career of R&B vocalist Stacy Lattisaw. Interviews with Stacy Lattisaw, Johnny Gill (of New Edition), and Narada Michael Walden.
Episode 17- "The Story of The Bar-Kays" April 19, 2010 Documenting the rise and tribulation of funk band The Bar-Kays. Interviews with Ben Cauley, David Porter (musician), James Alexander (musician), Al Bell, Jazze Pha, and Steven Ivory. NOTE: This episode shows news footage from the plane crash that took the lives of singer Otis Redding and many of the original members, as well as footage of the Bar-Kays performing at Wattstax.
Episode 18- "The Story of Teddy Pendergrass" September 13, 2010 Documenting the rise and turbulent career of late legendary vocalist Teddy Pendergrass. Interviews with Tyrese Gibson, Dyana Williams, Kenny Gamble, and Leon Huff. NOTE: Teddy Pendergrass was previously featured on an episode of VH1's Behind the Music in 1997.
Episode 19- "The Story of Tammi Terrell" September 20, 2010 Documenting the rise and short-lived career of late Motown vocalist Tammi Terrell. Interviews with Nick Ashford, Valerie Simpson, Otis Williams (of The Temptations), Mary Wilson (singer), and Dyana Williams.
Episode 20- "The Story of Heatwave" September 27, 2010 Documenting the rise and turbulent careers of R&B group Heatwave. Interviews with Keith Wilder, Ernest "Bilbo" Berger, Mario Mantese, Derek Bramble, and Dyana Williams.
Episode 21- "The Story of Musical Youth" October 4, 2010 Documenting the rise and turbulent careers of reggae band Musical Youth. Interviews with Dennis Seaton, Michael Grant, Kelvin Grant, (of Musical Youth), Dave Morgan, Pete Price, and Don Letts.
Episode 22- "The Story of George Clinton" October 11, 2010 Documenting the rise and career of funk superstar George Clinton. Interviews with George Clinton, Grady Thomas, Rickey Vincent, Bootsy Collins, Michael Hampton, Maceo Parker, Hank Shocklee, Robert 'Peanut' Johnson, Amuka/ Sheila Brody, and Blackbyrd McNight. NOTE: George Clinton was previously featured on an episode of VH1's Legends in 1999.

NOTE: Pivotal Parliament-Funkadelic band members Bernie Worrell and Bill Laswell do not appear in the documentary.

Episode 23- "The Story of The Fat Boys" October 18, 2010 Documenting the rise and careers of pioneering rap group The Fat Boys. Interviews with Prince Markie Dee, Damon Wimbley, Kurtis Blow, Biz Markie, and Hank Shocklee. NOTE:This was the first Unsung about a Hip Hop artist or group
Episode 24- "The Story of Angela Winbush" October 25, 2010 Documenting the rise and turbulent career of R&B vocalist Angela Winbush. Interviews with Angela Winbush, Lalah Hathaway, Avant, and Tom Joyner.
Episode 25- "The Story of Miki Howard" November 1, 2010 Documenting the rise and turbulent career of R&B/ Jazz vocalist Miki Howard. Interviews with Miki Howard, Augie Johnson (of Side Effect), John Nettlesbey, LeMel Humes, Robi Reed, and Val Young.
Episode 26- "The Story of The O'Jays" November 8, 2010 Documenting the rise and turbulent careers of legendary R&B group The O'Jays. Interviews with Eddie Levert, Bobby Massey, Sammy Strain (also of Little Anthony and the Imperials), Marc Gordon (of LeVert), and Tom Joyner. NOTE: No explanation was given for the omission of original O'Jays member

Bill Isles from induction into The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Isles sang with the group for the first seven years of their existence.

Season 4

Title Original Airdate Short Summary Notable Guest Appearances NOTES
Episode 27- "The Story of Deniece Williams" June 6, 2011 Documenting the rise and career of recording artist Deniece Williams. Interviews with Deniece Williams, Stevie Wonder, Johnny Mathis, George Duke, Verdine White & Philip Bailey (of Earth, Wind, & Fire), Ray Parker Jr., and Tatyana Ali. NOTE: This is the first episode to feature Pop-Up Video style information boxes and trivia during the show.
Episode 28- "The Story of The Spinners" June 13, 2011 Documenting the rise and career of R&B group The Spinners. Interviews with Henry Fambrough, Bobby Smith (rhythm and blues singer), G. C. Cameron, Charlton Washington, and Jessie Peck (of the The Spinners (American band)), Thom Bell, Dyana Williams, Jerry L. Greenberg. NOTE: The episode features footage from the film Soul Power (2008), which documented the concert in Zaire, Africa which complemented the Muhammad Ali/ George Foreman fight dubbed "Rumble in the Jungle". The Spinners performed with James Brown, Celia Cruz and the Fania All-Stars, B.B. King, Miriam Makeba, Bill Withers, and Manu Dibango.
Episode 29- "The Story of Alexander O'Neal and Cherrelle" June 20, 2011 Documenting the rise and careers of R&B vocalists Alexander O'Neal and Cherrelle. Interviews with Alexander O'Neal, Cherrelle, Miki Howard, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, and Pebbles.
Episode 30- "The Story of Big Daddy Kane" June 27, 2011 Documenting the rise and career of rapper and actor Big Daddy Kane. Interviews with Big Daddy Kane, Nelson George, MC Lyte, Biz Markie, Kool Moe Dee, Eric B. (of Eric B. & Rakim), Ralph McDaniels, and Roxanne Shanté.
Episode 31- "The Story of The Ohio Players"[3] July 4, 2011 Documenting the rise and career of R&B group The Ohio Players. Interviews with Bootsy Collins, Greg Webster, James Diamond Williams and Walter Morrison (of the Ohio Players), Billy Beck (musician), and Lester Troutman (of Zapp). NOTE: The Ohio Players previously discussed the urban legends surrounding the track "Love Rollercoaster" and the cover art to Honey, in an episode of the series VH1 Confidential.
Episode 32- "The Story of Evelyn Champagne King" July 11, 2011 Documenting the rise and career of disco and R&B vocalist Evelyn Champagne King. Interviews with Evelyn Champagne King, Leon Sylvers III, Kenny Copeland (of Rose Royce), Kashif (musician), Flo Jenkins, Dyana Williams.
Episode 33- "The Story of Billy Preston" July 25, 2011 Documenting the rise and career of the late recording artist Billy Preston. Interviews with Merry Clayton, Bruce Fisher, and George Johnson (of The Brothers Johnson).
Episode 34- "The Story of The Sylvers" August 1, 2011 Documenting the rise and turbulent careers of the family R&B group The Sylvers. Interviews with Nelson George, Leon Sylvers III, other members of the Sylvers family, and Dyana Williams.
Episode 35- "The Story of Mary Wells" August 15, 2011 Documenting the rise and turbulent career of late R&B vocalist Mary Wells. Interviews with Mary Wilson (singer) (of The Supremes), Nelson George, and Janie Bradford.

Season 5

Title Original Airdate Short Summary Notable Guest Appearances NOTES
Episode 36- "The Story of Vesta Williams" January 2, 2012 Documenting the rise and turbulent career of late R&B recording artist and actress Vesta Williams. Interviews with Vesta Williams, Howard Hewett (of Shalamar), "Bow-Legged Lou" (of Full Force), Will Downing, and Vivica A. Fox. NOTE: The last interview Vesta Williams conducted. She died September 22, 2011.

NOTE: This is the first episode to feature a newly designed opening sequence.

Episode 37- "The Story of Bobby Womack" January 9, 2012 Documenting the rise and turbulent career of late R&B and Soul singer & songwriter Bobby Womack. Interviews with Bobby Womack, Bill Withers, David T. Walker, Harold Payne, Steven Ivory, and Michael Thompson.
Episode 38- "The Story of Atlantic Starr" January 16, 2012 Documenting the rise and career of the R&B music group Atlantic Starr. Interviews with David Lewis, Sharon Bryant, Barbara Weathers, Steven Ivory, Cliff Winston, and Adrienne-Joi Johnson.
Episode 39- "The Story of Freddie Jackson" January 23, 2012 Documenting the rise and career of R&B vocalist Freddie Jackson. Interviews with Freddie Jackson, Melba Moore, Meli'sa Morgan, Howard Hewett (of Shalamar), Steven Ivory, and Chuck Jackson.
Episode 40- "The Story of Full Force" January 30, 2012 Documenting the rise and careers of R&B group Full Force. Interviews with Lisa Lisa (of Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam), Cheryl Pepsii Riley, Howie Dorough (of The Backstreet Boys), Christopher Reid (entertainer) (of Kid 'n Play), Don Cornelius, and Blair Underwood.
Episode 41- "The Story of Millie Jackson' February 6, 2012 Documenting the rise and career of R&B vocalist and comedienne Millie Jackson. Interviews with Millie Jackson, Keisha Jackson, Roxanne Shante, Da Brat, Benny Latimore (musician), and Nelson George.
Episode 42- "The Story of Ray Parker, Jr." February 13, 2012 Documenting the rise and career of R&B singer/ songwriter Ray Parker, Jr. Interviews with Ray Parker Jr., David Foster, Chaka Khan, Clive Davis, Arnell Carmichael (of Raydio), Vincent Bonham (of Raydio), Deniece Williams, Cheryl Lynn, Eddie Holland, Steve Jordan, Chazzy Green, and David Paich. NOTE: The episode neglected to mention Ray Parker, Jr. sued Huey Lewis and The News over breaking a "confidentiality agreement" by speaking about the "Ghostbusters" lawsuit on VH1's Behind the Music.[4]
Episode 43- ""The Story of Sheila E. (and the Family)" February 27, 2012 Documenting the rise and career of drummer and percussionist Sheila E. Interviews with Sheila E., Pete Escovedo, Juan Escovedo, Peter Michael Escovedo, Zina Escovedo, M.C. Hammer, George Duke, Al Jarreau, Michael Cooper, Cliff Winston, Ray Obiedo, and D'wayne Wiggins. NOTE: Postponed from an earlier date (February 20, 2012)
Episode 44- "The Story of David Ruffin" March 5, 2012 Documenting the rise and turbulent career of the late R&B performer David Ruffin. Interviews with Otis Williams, Dennis Edwards (of The Temptations), Cornelius Grant, Clay McMurray, Robert Penn, Shelly Berger, and Larry Buford. NOTE: Postponed from an earlier date (February 27, 2012)

NOTE: David Ruffin was a pivotal member of the Motown group "The Temptations. NOTE: This episode is the most watched episode of Unsung to date.

Episode 45- "The Story of Whodini" March 12, 2012 Documenting the rise and career of pioneering rap group Whodini. Interviews with Hassan Pore, Jalil Hutchins, Ralph McDaniels, John Fletcher, Grandmaster Dee, Kangol Kid, Roy Comier, Stretch, Michael Bivins, Chuck D, Dana Dane, Doctor Ice, and Nelson George. NOTE: Postponed from an earlier date (March 5, 2012)

Season 6

Title Original Airdate Short Summary Notable Guest Appearances NOTES
Episode 46- "The Story of Sly and the Family Stone June 25, 2012 Documenting the rise and turbulent careers of music group Sly and the Family Stone. Interviews with Sly Stone, Cynthia Robinson, Greg Errico, Jerry Martini, (of Sly and the Family Stone), Stephen Paley, Novena Carmel, Clive Davis, Hamp "Bubba" Banks, and Jeff Kaliss. NOTE: Original bassist Larry Graham did not appear in the documentary.
Episode 47- "The Story of Angela Bofill" July 2, 2012 Documenting the career and troubles of Jazz, R&B singer-songwriter Angela Bofill. Interviews with Angela Bofill, Buddy Williams, Dave Valentin, Frank Martin, Narada Michael Walden, Maysa Leak, Jeanie Tracy, Francisco Coteno, Melba Moore, and Rich Engel.
Episode 48- "The Story of Con Funk Shun" July 9, 2012 Documenting the rise and careers of the R&B/funk music group Con Funk Shun. Interviews with Dennis Johnson, Danny "Sweetman" Thomas, Felton Pilate, Larry Dodson (of The Bar Kays), Michael Cooper, Zebulun Pauelle Harrell, Karl Fuller, Paul Mack, Peter Michael Escovedo, Cedric Martin, Rickey Vincent, Linda Lou McCall, Jay King, Melvin Carter, and MC Hammer.
Episode 49- "The Story of Kool Moe Dee" July 16, 2012 Documenting the rise and career of pioneer rap vocalist Kool Moe Dee. Interviews with Kool Moe Dee, LA Sunshine, Special K (artist) (of the Treacherous Three), Busy Bee Starski, Melle Mel, Doug E. Fresh, Teddy Riley, Quincy Jones, and Lavaba Mallison. NOTE: Episode neglects to mention that Kool Moe Dee graduated from college.[5]
Episode 50- "The Story of The Marvelettes" July 23, 2012 Documenting the rise and turbulent decline of Motown group the Marvelettes. Interviews with Katherine Anderson Shaffner, Wanda Young Rogers, Ann Bogan, Wyanetta "Juanita" Cowart (of the Marvelettes), Otis Williams (of The Temptations), Georgia Dobbins, Robert Bateman, Mary Wilson (of The Supremes), Joe Billingslea (of The Contours), Eddie Holland, Dyana Williams, Janie Bradford, and David Washington.
Episode 51- "The Story of Arrested Development" August 13, 2012 Documenting the careers of alternative hip hop group Arrested Development. Interviews with Speech, Rasa Don, Aerle Taree, One Love, Eshe Mothsho, Dionne Farris, JJ Boogie, Tasha LaRae (of Arrested Development), Steven Ivory, Jason Orr, Gil Robertson, and Kelley L. Carter. NOTE: The episode neglects to mention the 2003 lawsuit between the group and FOX television over the TV series Arrested Development.[6]
Episode 52- "The Story of Gerald Levert" August 20, 2012 Documenting the rise and career of the late R&B vocalist Gerald Levert. Interviews with Eddie Levert, Walter Williams (of The O'Jays), Marc Gordon (of LeVert), Johnny Gill (of LSG), Reggie Calloway (of Midnight Star), Miki Howard, Michael Ferguson, Sylvia Rhone, Steven Ivory, Steve Harvey, and Dyana Williams. NOTE: Postponed from an earlier date: (July 30, 2012).

Season 7

Title Original Airdate Short Summary Notable Guest Appearances NOTES
Episode 53- "The Story of Isaac Hayes" January 23, 2013 Documenting the rise and career of the late R&B vocalist and actor Isaac Hayes. Interviews with David Porter, Rickey Vincent, James Alexander, Al Bell, Willie Hall, Pat Lewis, and Mack Rice. NOTE: Footage from the documentary concert film Wattstax (1973) was incorporated into this episode.

NOTE:
The episode does not mention that Hayes formed his ownABC-distributed label afterStaxfolded and had a Top-20 album hit with Chocolate Chip in 1975.[7]

Episode 54- "The Story of Midnight Star" January 30, 2013 Documenting the rise and career of the R&B and electro-funk group Midnight Star Interviews with Vincent Calloway, Reggie Calloway, (Also of Calloway) Kenneth Gant, Bill Simmons, Jeffrey Cooper, Melvin Gentry, Bo Watson, Belinda Lipscomb (of Midnight Star), Scot Brown, Steve Ivory, Bobby Lovelace, Karolyn Ali, Walter Scott and Wallace Scott (of The Whispers), Virgil Roberts, Ecstacy (of Whodini), Tyrone DuBose, and Phyllis Larrymore-Kelly.
Episode 55- "The Story of EPMD" February 6, 2013 Documenting the rise and turblent career of hip-hop group EPMD Interviews with Erick Sermon, Parrish Smith, DJ Scratch (of EPMD) Charlie Marotta, DMC aka Darryl McDaniels (of Run DMC), Redman (rapper), Keith Murray, Skoob (of Das EFX), Hurricane G, Bernard Alexander, Richard and Raymond Grant (DJ Twinz), Nelson George, and Chuck Creekmur (of AllHipHop.com).
Episode 56- "The Story of Lou Rawls" February 13, 2013 Documenting the rise and career of the late R&B vocalist and philanthropist Lou Rawls Interviews with H.B. Barnum, Louanna Rawls, Billy Vera, Les McCann, Della Reese, Reg Johnson, Rickey Minor, Steve Ivory, Leon Huff, and Kenny Gamble. NOTE: Postponed from an earlier date (August 20, 2012).

NOTE: The episode neglects to mention that Rawls was a character actor in addition to musician, and appeared in many films, television shows, and commercials.

Episode 57- "The Story of Disco" February 20, 2013 A two-hour special documenting the rise and fall of the American phenomenon that took the world by storm in the 1970s. Interviews with Phil Hurtt, Patrick Adams, Ernie Singleton, Kenton Nix, Nicky Siano, Candi Staton, Gloria Gaynor, Nile Rodgers (of Chic), Harry Wayne Casey (of KC & The Sunshine Band), Anita Ward, Thelma Houston, Victor Willis, David Hodo (of The Village People), Vince Aletti, Frankie Knuckles, Earl Young (of The Trammps), Janice-Marie Johnson (of A Taste of Honey), Fred Buggs, Cecil Holmes, Billy Amato, Taana Gardner, Wonder Mike (of The Sugarhill Gang), Michael Eric Dyson, and Nelson George NOTE: This episode was the first to focus on an entire genre of music rather than a particular artist, group, or band.
Episode 58- "The Story of Eddie Kendricks" February 27, 2013 Documenting the rise and career of the late R&B performer Eddie Kendricks Interviews with Otis Williams, Dennis Edwards (of The Temptations), Mary Wilson, Prentiss Anderson, David Washington, Shelly Berger, Martha Reeves, Rickey Vincent, Darleen Woods, Merald "Bubba" Knight (of Gladys Knight & the Pips), and David Sea. NOTE: Eddie Kendricks was a co-founder of the Motown group The Temptations.
Episode 59- "The Story of The Whispers" March 6, 2013 Documenting the rise and career of R&B group The Whispers Interviews with Walter Scott, Wallace Scott, Nicholas Caldwell, Leveil Degree (of The Whispers), George Aubrey, Willette Ballard, Leon Sylvers III, Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds, Howard Hewett, Mo'Nique, Gary Taylor (singer/songwriter), Steve Ivory, Calvin Lincoln NOTE: The episode failed to mention that The Whispers performed the opening theme for Soul Train during the 1980-1982 season.
Episode 60- "The Story of Mint Condition" March 13, 2013 Documenting the rise and career of R&B band Mint Condition Interviews with Stokley Williams, Ricky Kinchen, Homer O'Dell, Larry Waddell, Jeffrey Allen, Keri Lewis (of Mint Condition), Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Brother Ali, Kelly Price, James "Popeye" Greer, Larkin Arnold, Peter Rhodes, and Michael Eric Dyson.
Episode 61- "The Story of Johnny Gill" March 20, 2013 Documenting the rise and career of the R&B singer-songwriter Johnny Gill Interviews with Johnny Gill, Stacy Lattisaw, Hank Caldwell, Keith Sweat (also of LSG), Randy Gill, Babyface, Michael Bivins, Ralph Tresvant, Bobby Brown, (also of New Edition), Tray Taylor, Cathy Hughes, Barry Bonds, Sugar Ray Leonard, Arsenio Hall, Michael Baisden, and Monica Palmer.

Season 8

Title Original Airdate Short Summary Notable Guest Appearances NOTES
Episode 62- "The Story of Heavy D & The Boyz" October 30, 2013 Documenting the careers and tribulations of New Jack Swing pioneers Heavy D & The Boyz and late rapper Heavy D. Interviews with G-Wiz, Eddie F (of Heavy D & The Boyz), Andre Harrell, DJ Red Alert, Teddy Riley, Reginald Hudlin, Pete Rock (of Pete Rock & CL Smooth), Leslie "Big Lez" Segar, Sandra Denton (of Salt-n-Pepa), Jeff Christie, and Monifah Carter NOTE: The episode neglects to mention that Heavy D provided the opening lyrics for FOX's In Living Color.
Episode 63- "The Story of Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam" November 6, 2013 Documenting the careers of R&B pop group Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam. Interviews with Lisa Lisa, Mike Hughes, Alex Mosley (of Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam), Brian "B-Fine" George, Paul Anthony, "Bow-Legged Lou" (of Full Force), Angie Martinez, Kangol Kid, Downtown Julie Brown, Mimi Valdez, Kimberly Osorio, Michael Bivins, Toni Menage, Stephanie Saraco, Cindi Gomes, and Christina Vidal.
Episode 64- "The Story of The Geto Boys" November 13, 2013 Documenting the careers and tribulations of the southern rap group The Geto Boys. Interviews with Bun B, Prince Johnny C, Bushwick Bill, Scarface, Willie D, DJ Ready Red (of The Geto Boys), Soren Baker, Big Boy, The Poetess, Greg Mack, Gangsta Boo, and T.I.
Episode 65- "The Story of The Delfonics" November 20, 2013 Documenting the career of 1960s & 1970s R&B group The Delfonics. Interviews with Wilson Hart, William Hart, Wilbert Hart, Sonny Hopson, Kenny Gamble, Thom Bell, Tony Brown, Jerry Blavat, Nelson George, Dyana Williams, Adrian Younge, Earl Young (drummer), and Linda Lou McCall.
Episode 66- "The Story of CeCe Peniston" November 27, 2013 Documenting the career of R&B vocalist CeCe Peniston. Interviews with CeCe Peniston, Barbara Peniston, Greg Peniston, Felipe Delgado, Tonya Davis (as Tonya "Peach" Davis), Rodney K. Jackson (as R.K. Jackson), Manny Lehman, Iris Perkins, Steve "Silk" Hurley, Tyrone Dubose, Malaika LeRae Sallard (as Malaika LeRae), Damon Jones, Adina Howard, Lois Walden (of Sisters of Glory), Mark Edward Nero
Episode 67- "The Story of Too $hort" January 29, 2014 Documenting the career and tribulations of rapper Too $hort. Interviews with Too $hort, Kenny Red, Too Clean, Freddy B, Money-B (of Digital Underground), Richie Rich, Davey D, Carla Green (of The Conscious Daughters), Jerry Hodges, Dean Hodges, Snoop Lion, The Poetess, Lionel Bea, Lil Jon, Mark Curry, Yo-Yo, Monica Payne (of Terri & Monica), Allen Gordon, and Yukmouth (of The Luniz)
Episode 68- "The Story of The Manhattans" February 5, 2014 Documenting the careers of R&B group The Manhattans. Interviews with Philip Terrell Flood, Gerald Alston, Kenneth Kelly, Winfred Lovett, Gregory Gaskins (of The Manhattans), Fred Huneley, Tyrone Dubose, Eddie Levert, Steven Ivory, Regina Belle, Paris Eley, Rodgers Redding, and David Tyson
Episode 69- "The Story of Gil Scott Heron" February 12, 2014 Documenting the career of late recording artist and Spoken Word poet Gil Scott Heron. Interviews with Eddie "Ade" Knowles, Brian Jackson, Danny Bowens, Tony Green, Charles Saunders, DJ Kemit, V Dixon, Snoop Dogg, Charlotte Fox, Larry MacDonald, Tony Duncanson, Rickey Vincent, W Shabazz, Malcolm Cecil, Robert Gordon, Clive Davis, Kim Jordan, Talib Kweli, M-1 (rapper), and Mimi
Episode 70- "The Story of Nile Rodgers and Chic" February 19, 2014 Documenting the careers of Disco pioneers Nile Rodgers and Chic. Interviews with Nile Rodgers, Norma Jean Wright, Alfa Anderson Sylver Logan Sharp (of Chic), Focus... (as Bernard Edwards Jr.), Bob Clearmountain, Fonzi Thornton, Robert Drake, Steve Ivory, Jerry Greenberg, Bunchy Goodman, Kathy Sledge (of Sister Sledge), Nelson George, Sammy Figueroa, and Budd Taneck

Season 9

Title Original Airdate Short Summary Notable Guest Appearances NOTES
Episode 71- "The Story of Montell Jordan" July 30, 2014 Documenting the rise and tribulation of R&B recording artist Montell Jordan. Interviews with Montell Jordan, Steve Ivory, Paul Stewart, Thomas Cunningham, Tina Davis, Gerrick Kennedy, Kevin Liles, Anthony Crawford (musician) (as Anthony "Shep" Crawford), LaRonda Sutton.
Episode 72- "The Story of Hi-Five" August 6, 2014 Documenting the trials and tribulations of R&B group Hi-Five. Interviews with Toriano Easley, Russell Neal, Marcus Sanders, Treston Irby, Terrence Murphy, Shannon Gill (of Hi-Five), Vincent E. Bell, Steve Russell, Tyrone Dubose, Flex Alexander, Jonathan Kinloch, Lionel Martin, Kimmy Mason, Gerrick Kennedy
Episode 73- "The Story of The Emotions" August 13, 2014 Documenting the trials and tribulations of female R&B group The Emotions. Interviews with Sheila Hutchinson, Pam Hutchinson, Wanda Hutchinson, Theresa Davis (of The Emotions), Clarence McDonald, Steve Ivory, Marshall Thompson (of the Chi-lites), Ron Ellison, Shanice Wilson, Keith Henderson, Al McKay (as Al McCay), Ricky Lawson, Deneice Williams, Allee Willis, Larry Heimgarter
Episode 74- "The Story of Martha Wash" August 20, 2014 Documenting the career of R&B recording artist Martha Wash. Interviews with Martha Wash, Charlene Moore, Jeanie Tracy, RuPaul, Eric Beall, Kenny Ortiz, Tyrone Dubose, Paul Shaffer, Robert Clivilles, Freedom Williams (of C+C Music Factory), Brian Alexander Morgan, James Washington, Zach Adam
Episode 75- "The Story of Troop (band)" August 27, 2014 Documenting the rise and career of R&B group Troop. Interviews with Rodney Benford, Reginald Warren, Allen McNeil, John Harreld, (of Troop) Bobby Brown, Marc Gordon (of LeVert), Steve Ivory, Steven Russell Harts, Chuckii Booker, Jai Jackson, Arsenio Hall, Doc Clark, Flex Alexander, Joyce Irby (of Klymaxx), Louis Burrell, Zac Harmon, Bobby Robinson, Demetrius 'Meech' Shipp, Stone Paxton
Episode 76- "The Story of Bone Thugs-n-Harmony" September 3, 2014 Documenting the rise and tribulations of Hip Hop group Bone Thugs-n-Harmony. Interviews with Flesh-N-Bone, Wish Bone, Bizzy Bone, Layzie Bone, Krayzie Bone (of Bone Thugs-n-Harmony), Big Boy (radio host), Steve Lobel, Kenny McCloud, DJ Yella, DJ Quik, DJ U-Neek, Cipha Sounds, Tomica Woods-Wright, Craig Henry, Soren Baker, Machine Gun Kelly (rapper), Violet Brown, Jamie Adler
Episode 77- "The Story of Wilson Pickett" September 10, 2014 Documenting the career of late R&B recording artist Wilson Pickett. Interviews with Willie Schofeld (of The Falcons), Rickey Vincent, Dave Washington, Curtis Pope, Wayne Cochran, Dennis Coffey, Chris Tuthill, Bobby Womack, Mario Medious, Jerry Jemmott, Wayne Cobham. NOTE: Featured footage from the documentary concert film Soul to Soul (film).
Episode 78- "The Story of The Chi-Lites" September 17, 2014 Documenting the rise and tribulations of R&B group The Chi-Lites. Interviews with Marshall Thompson, Frank Reed (singer), (of The Chi-Lites), Gregg Parker, Dave Washington, Bruce Swedien, Tyrone Dubose, Tom Tom Washington, Gus Redmond, and Herb Kent.
Episode 79- "The Story of Rick James" January 14, 2015 Documenting the rise, career, and turbulent life of the late funk pioneer Rick James. Interviews with Nate & Lanise Hughes, Levi Ruffin, Daniel LeMelle, Oscar Alston, Tom McDermott (of the Stone City Band), Kerry Gordy, Jeff Jampol, Smokey Robinson, Narada Michael Walden, Val Young, Charlie Murphy, Jazze Pha, Roxanne Shante. NOTE: Postponed from an earlier date (October 1, 2014).
Episode 80- "The Story of Peaches and Herb" January 21, 2015 Documenting the rise and tribulations of R&B group Peaches and Herb. Interviews with Herb Fame, Dewey Hughes, Steve Ivory, Paul Cohn, Linda Tavani, Peter Manning Robinson, Stephen Tavani. NOTE: Postponed from an earlier date (September 24, 2014).
Episode 81- "The Story of Angie Stone" January 28, 2015 Documenting the rise and tribulations of R&B and Soul vocalist Angie Stone. Interviews with Angie Stone, Gwendolyn Chisolm (of The Sequence), Nautica De La Cruz, Rodney C. Stone (of Funky Four Plus One), Willie Bruno, Jocelyn Cooper, Kedar Massenburg, Syleena Johnson, Peter Edge, Clive Davis, Jazze Pha. NOTE: Neglected to mention her troubles with weight, Type 2 diabetes, and prescription medicine. She also appeared on the TV series Celebrity Fit Club.
Episode 82- "The Story of Meli'sa Morgan" February 4, 2015 Documenting the rise and tribulations of R&B vocalist Meli'sa Morgan. Interviews with Meli'sa Morgan, Paul Laurence, Patrick Adams, Kashif (musician), Don Grierson (music business), Miki Howard, Melba Moore, Bow-legged Lou (of Full Force), Alyson Williams, Fred "Bugsy" Buggs, Kevin Harewood, Lesette Wilson, Lenny Green, Ruben Rodriguez, Tyrone Dubose.

References

  1. ↑ "For those who followed my "Unsung Shalamar: Jody Watley Unfiltered" series, the finale featuring former Shalamar lead singer Gerald Brown (who was not asked to be a part of Unsung) was posted.". facebook.com. 2010. Retrieved 2010-12-31.
  2. ↑ "Oscar-nominated film renews interest in the real-life 'Dreamgirl'". dailymail.co.uk. 2007. Retrieved 2007-02-21.
  3. ↑ "Season 4/Episode 31- 'The Story of The Ohio Players'". Unsung. July 4, 2011.
  4. ↑ "Parker Jr., Lewis In 'Behind The Music' Flap". billboard.com. 2001. Retrieved 2014-11-01.
  5. ↑ Jefferson, Tara Pringle (2012). "Kool Moe Dee on Hip-Hop". Loop21. Retrieved 2013-03-04.
  6. ↑ "Atlanta Band Sues Fox Broadcasting Regarding "Arrested Development"". inta.org. 2014. Retrieved 2014-11-02.
  7. ↑ Callahan, Mike; Edwards, David; Eyries, Patrice (July 30, 2004). "ABC-Paramount Records". Retrieved July 6, 2014.

External links