Unsung

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 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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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 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.

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 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 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 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 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)

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 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)

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.

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.

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.