Ep 14. Case

Unsung is a musical documentary series that focuses on the untold stories of some of the most influential and successful artists who have made an impact on the music industry. This episode is on the American R&B singer Case, also known as Case Woodard. He is a singer, songwriter, and record producer who contributed to the emergence of the R&B genre in the 1990s. He is best known for his hit songs like 'Touch Me, Tease Me' and 'Happily Ever After.'

This episode of UnSung delves deep into Case's life, from his early start in music to his rise to fame and his subsequent fall. The show begins by introducing Case and his musical influences, including his mother, who was a gospel singer. He was discovered by Russell Simmons while performing in a talent show in Brooklyn. Russell Simmons liked his music, and he signed him up to his label, Def Jam Records. This was the beginning of Case's music career.

As the episode continues, viewers gain insight into what made Case's music unique. They learn how he incorporated hip-hop into R&B, making it appealing to a diverse audience. He was known for creating meaningful lyrics that touched people's hearts and spoke to their experiences. The show features interviews with some of the key people who were part of Case's musical journey, including his former label mates from Def Jam Records, his music collaborators, and his friends and family.

The show also covers some of the challenges Case faced while trying to establish himself as a successful artist. One of the significant challenges he faced was competition from other R&B singers during the 1990s, such as R. Kelly and Jodeci. Despite the competition, Case managed to stand out by creating music that resonated with people. However, his fame came with its own set of issues, including drug addiction and personal issues that put his music career in jeopardy.

The episode highlights some of the most significant moments of Case's music career, including the making of his hit song, 'Touch Me, Tease Me,' which was part of the soundtrack for the movie, The Nutty Professor. They also cover the making of his album, Open Letter, which was his most memorable work to date. The album was well received by music critics and featured collaborations with some of the music industry's biggest names, including Mary J. Blige and Lauryn Hill.

The show also covers some of the personal problems that Case encountered, leading to his downfall. They talk about his struggles with drugs and his involvement in a drug smuggling scheme, which nearly ruined his life. The show interviews the people closest to him during his lowest moments, including his mother and his former collaborators. These interviews paint a picture of a talented artist who lost his way but managed to pick himself up and start again.

In summary, this episode of UnSung season 12 delves into the life of Case, one of the most influential R&B singers of the 1990s. The show covers his journey from his start in music to his rise to stardom and his subsequent fall. It highlights some of the most significant moments of his music career, including the making of his hit songs and his most memorable album, Open Letter. The show also covers some of the personal problems that Case encountered, which nearly ruined his life. Overall, it is an insightful and inspiring documentary that will leave viewers with a deep appreciation of Case's music and his life.