Unsung

This episode examines the meteoric rise and painful struggles of the DeBarge family, the gifted musical dynasty behind some of the most beloved R&B hits of the 1980s. Through candid interviews and rare archival footage, the documentary traces their journey from a strict and turbulent upbringing to chart‑topping success. It also confronts the personal battles, family trauma, and industry pressures that threatened to overshadow their talent. The episode offers an intimate look at how their music, resilience, and enduring bond shaped a legacy that continues to influence R&B and pop today.

This episode explores the life and legacy of Donny Hathaway, the brilliant yet troubled soul singer whose voice defined a generation. Through rare performance footage, intimate interviews, and personal reflections from those who knew him best, the documentary traces his rise from gospel‑trained prodigy to acclaimed songwriter and collaborator. It also confronts the emotional and mental health struggles that shaped his artistry and ultimately cut his life short. The episode paints a moving portrait of a musical genius whose influence continues to echo through modern R&B, soul, and jazz.

This episode traces the extraordinary journey of The Clark Sisters, the pioneering gospel group whose unmatched harmonies reshaped contemporary sacred music. Through candid interviews and rare archival footage, the documentary explores their Detroit roots, the demanding musical legacy of their mother Dr. Mattie Moss Clark, and the personal trials that tested their unity. From groundbreaking success to internal struggles and eventual reconciliation, the episode reveals how their faith, resilience, and innovation cemented them as the most influential female gospel group of all time.

Phyllis Hyman’s episode traces the rise of one of soul music’s most captivating and misunderstood voices. The documentary explores her early promise, her struggles within an unforgiving music industry, and the emotional battles she fought behind the scenes. Through rare footage and intimate interviews, the episode reveals how her unmatched talent, personal resilience, and heartbreaking vulnerabilities shaped a legacy that continues to inspire long after her untimely passing.

This episode traces the electrifying rise of Zapp & Roger, the pioneering funk innovators whose talkbox sound reshaped R&B and hip‑hop. Through rare footage and emotional interviews, the documentary explores their musical breakthroughs, the family dynamics that fueled their creativity, and the tragic events that cut their legacy short while cementing their influence for generations.

This episode explores the groundbreaking journey of Klymaxx, the all‑female band that fused funk, rock, and R&B into a bold new sound. Through candid interviews and archival footage, the documentary traces their rise from club stages to chart success, the internal tensions that challenged their unity, and the lasting influence of a group that proved women could dominate the male‑driven world of funk.

This episode dives into the wild, visionary world of Bootsy Collins, the flamboyant bassist whose groundbreaking work with James Brown and Parliament‑Funkadelic helped redefine funk music. Through vibrant stories and rare footage, the documentary explores his rise from sideman to star, his creative genius, and the personal challenges behind the larger‑than‑life persona that made him a cultural icon.

This episode chronicles the remarkable journey of Teena Marie, the soulful singer‑songwriter whose powerful voice and genre‑blending artistry made her a groundbreaking force in R&B. Through rare footage and candid interviews, the documentary explores her rise under Motown, her creative partnership with Rick James, and the personal and professional battles she overcame to secure her place as one of soul music’s most enduring and influential artists.

This episode traces the powerful yet heartbreaking story of Florence Ballard, the founding voice of The Supremes whose talent helped launch Motown’s most iconic group. Through rare footage and emotional interviews, the documentary explores her rise to stardom, the internal struggles that pushed her aside, and the personal battles that shaped her tragic fall. It offers a poignant look at a gifted singer whose legacy continues to resonate long after her untimely passing.

This episode traces the rise of Shalamar, the influential R&B trio whose sharp choreography and smooth harmonies helped define the sound of the late ’70s and early ’80s. Through candid interviews and archival footage, the documentary explores their chart‑topping success, internal tensions, and the creative legacy that continues to shape modern R&B and dance music.

This episode explores the dynamic career of Melba Moore, the Tony Award–winning singer and actress whose powerful voice and resilience helped her navigate fame, heartbreak, and reinvention. From Broadway stardom to chart success and personal setbacks, the documentary reveals how Moore’s artistry and determination made her a lasting force in music and entertainment.

Minnie Riperton’s Unsung episode offers a heartfelt look at her brief but brilliant career, highlighting her iconic vocal range and the emotional depth behind her music. It features interviews with her husband Richard Rudolph, daughter Maya Rudolph, and collaborators like Q-Tip and Ramsey Lewis

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) (of The O'Jays), Marc Gordon (of LeVert), and Tom Joyner.

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.

Documenting the rise and turbulent career of R&B vocalist Angela Winbush. Interviews with Angela Winbush, Lalah Hathaway, Avant, Tom Joyner, and A. Scott Galloway.

Documenting the rise and careers of pioneering rap group The Fat Boys. Interviews with Prince Markie Dee, Damon Wimbley (of The Fat Boys), Papa Keith, Chuck Creekmur, Rayzor, Kurtis Blow, Charles Stettler, Biz Markie, Hank Shocklee, J. Cole, and Cory Rooney. This was the first Unsung about a Hip Hop artist or group.

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 DeWayne McKnight (as Blackbyrd McNight). George Clinton was previously featured on an episode of VH1's Legends in 1999.

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.

Documenting the rise and turbulent careers of R&B group Heatwave. Interviews with Keith Wilder, Ernest "Bilbo" Berger, Mario Mantese, Billy Jones, Keith Harrison, Byron Byrd, Roy Carter, Derek Bramble (of Heatwave), Dyana Williams, and Dr. Scot Brown.

Documenting the rise and short-lived career of Motown vocalist Tammi Terrell. Interviews with Nick Ashford, Valerie Simpson, Otis Williams (of The Temptations), Mary Wilson, Gene Chandler, Vance Wilson, Weldon Arthur McDougal III, Jerry Blavat, Elaine Jesmer, Harry Weinger, and Dyana Williams.

Documenting the rise and turbulent career of R&B vocalist Teddy Pendergrass. Interviews with Tyrese Gibson, Dyana Williams, Kenny Gamble, and Leon Huff. Teddy Pendergrass was previously featured on an episode of VH1's Behind the Music in 1997.

Documenting the rise and tribulation of Funk band The Bar-Kays. Interviews with Ben Cauley, David Porter, James Alexander, Al Bell, Jazze Pha, and Steven Ivory. 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.

Documenting the rise and career of R&B vocalist Stacy Lattisaw. Interviews with Stacy Lattisaw, Johnny Gill (of New Edition), and Narada Michael Walden.

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").

Documenting the rise and short-lived career of Disco recording artist Sylvester. Interviews with Joshua Gamson, Anita Pointer (of The Pointer Sisters), Walter Hawkins, Martha Wash, Jeanie Tracy, Dyana Williams, and Narada Michael Walden.

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)

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.

Documenting the rise and career of R&B vocalist and comedian Millie Jackson. Interviews with Millie Jackson, Keisha Jackson, Roxanne Shante, Da Brat, Latimore, A. Scott Galloway, and Nelson George.

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 (of Kid 'n Play), Don Cornelius, "Grouchy" Greg Watkins (of AllHipHop.com), and Blair Underwood. This was the last TV appearance of Don Cornelius. He committed suicide two days after this episode aired.

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.

Documenting the rise and careers of the R&B music group Atlantic Starr. Interviews with David Lewis, Sharon Bryant, Barbara Weathers, Steven Ivory, Cliff Winston, and Adrienne-Joi Johnson.

Documenting the rise and turbulent career of R&B, Soul singer & songwriter Bobby Womack. Interviews with Bobby Womack, Bill Withers, David T. Walker, Harold Payne, Steven Ivory, and Michael Thompson.

Documenting the rise and turbulent career of R&B recording artist and actress Vesta Williams. Interviews with Vesta Williams, Howard Hewett (of Shalamar), "Bow-Legged Lou" (of Full Force), TC Campbell (of Cameo), Will Downing, and Vivica A. Fox. The last interview Vesta Williams conducted. She died September 22, 2011. This was the first episode to feature a newly designed opening sequence.

Documenting the rise and turbulent career of Motown R&B vocalist Mary Wells. Interviews with Brenda Holloway, Brian Holland and Eddie Holland, Mary Wilson (of The Supremes), Claudette Rogers Robinson, Meech Wells, Mizell Brothers, Peter Benjaminson, Mickey Gentile, Nelson George, and Janie Bradford.

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.

Documenting the rise and career of recording artist Billy Preston. Interviews with Merry Clayton, Bruce Fisher, and George Johnson (of The Brothers Johnson).

Documenting the rise and career of Disco and R&B vocalist Evelyn Champagne King. Interviews with Evelyn Champagne King, Leon Sylvers III (of The Sylvers), Kenny Copeland (of Rose Royce), Kashif, Flo Jenkins, Dyana Williams.

Documenting the rise and career of R&B group The Ohio Players. Interviews with Leroy "Sugarfoot" Bonner, Marshall "Rock" Jones, Greg Webster, James "Diamond" Williams, and Walter Morrison, Billy Beck and Trae Pierce (of the Ohio Players), Bootsy Collins, Lester Troutman (of Zapp), Scot Brown, Pat "Runningbear" Evans, and Robin McBride. 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.

Documenting the rise and career of rapper and actor Big Daddy Kane. Interviews with Big Daddy Kane, Nelson George, MC Lyte, Biz Markie, Scoob Lover, Tyrone "Fly Ty" Williams, Mister Cee, Matthew McDaniel, Freddie Foxxx, Kool Moe Dee, Eric B. (of Eric B. & Rakim), Ralph McDaniels, and Roxanne Shanté.

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.

Documenting the rise and career of R&B group The Spinners. Interviews with Henry Fambrough, Bobby Smith, G. C. Cameron, John Edwards, Charlton Washington, and Jessie Peck (of The Spinners), Thom Bell, Dyana Williams, and Jerry L. Greenberg. 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.

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. This was the first episode to feature Pop-Up Video style information boxes and trivia during the show.

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), Michael Mauldin, Steven Ivory, Jason Orr, Gil Robertson IV, and Kelley L. Carter.

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.

Documenting the rise and career of pioneer rap vocalist Kool Moe Dee. Interviews with Kool Moe Dee, LA Sunshine, Special K (of the Treacherous Three), Busy Bee Starski, Melle Mel, Doug E. Fresh, Teddy Riley, Quincy Jones, and Lavaba Mallison.

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.

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.

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. Original bassist Larry Graham did not appear in the documentary.

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. Postponed from an earlier date (March 5, 2012)

Documenting the rise and turbulent career of 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. Postponed from an earlier date (February 27, 2012). David Ruffin was a pivotal member of the Motown group "The Temptations. This was the highest rated episode of the season.

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, Karl Perazzo, George Duke, Al Jarreau, Michael Cooper (of Con Funk Shun), Cliff Winston, Ray Obiedo, and D'wayne Wiggins. Postponed from an earlier date (February 20, 2012)

Poet Gil Scott-Heron is profiled.

The Chi-Lites are profiled, from their Chicago origins through a 1970s stardom characterized by wild costumes, signature harmonies, and such hits as "Oh, Girl" and "Have You Seen Her." The episode then details how tragedies afflicted the group.

Boy band Hi-Five is profiled, from their Waco origins through their work with such icons as R. Kelly and Teddy Riley. Along the way, we revisit their various musical highlights and then examine the tragedies that threatened to spell disaster for them.

Full Force, Zapp & Roger, Sylvester and Miki Howard are visited.

Dave Hollister is profiled.

Michel’le stormed the music scene with a voice like no other, and scaled the charts with help from romantic attachments in high places. But that success came with a terrible cost.

Shirley Murdock is a rare singer-songwriter who is revered by fans of pop, R&B, dance music and gospel. But at the height of her career, an unthinkable tragedy tested her faith.

Christopher Williams emerged during the late 1980s with a string of new jack swing hits and a pretty boy look. But scandals and arrests would derail his career.

When their debut album produced four top singles, Dru Hill seemed destined for superstardom. But clashes with their label and each other all but derailed their career.

Thelma Houston has been performing and entertaining fans for over 50 years with her soulful and powerful voice; Thelma comes together with friends and family to tell the story of her incredible journey.

Monie Love made her own lane as a rap star in the late '80s and early '90s with a unique style and socially-conscious lyrics; Monie tells her amazing story, which started as a dream and ended up changing the world of hip-hop.

Portraits of pioneering political figures who helped change the game and change the world, from Barbara Jordan and Shirley Chisholm to John Lewis and Barack Obama.

Unsung Presents Best In Black: Television features stories of pioneering TV shows, from "The Jeffersons" and "A Different World" to "Insecure" and "In Living Color", that helped change the game, and change the world.

Unsung Presents Best in Black: Comics features portraits of trailblazing comedians, from Redd Foxx and Richard Pryor to Bernie Mac and MoNique, who helped change the game, and change the world.

Unsung Presents Best In Black: Movies features stories of groundbreaking films, from In the Heat of the Night and Shaft to The Color Purple and Get Out, that helped change the game, and change the world.

Portraits of trailblazing activists who are helping change the game and the world; Paul Robeson, Angela Davis, Maya Angelou and Thurgood Marshall.

Portraits of pioneering figures in film, from Lena Horne and Sidney Poitier to Spike Lee and Ava DuVernay, who helped change the game -- and the world.

Unsung Presents Best In Black: Athletes features portraits of trailblazing athletes, from Jesse Owens and Bill Russell to Venus Williams and Laila Ali, who helped change the game, and change the world.

Portraits of pioneering figures in fashion, from Run-D.M.C. and Grace Jones to Karl Kani and Virgil Abloh, who helped change the game, and change the world.