Ep 5. George Clinton
- October 11, 2010
Unsung is a docuseries that delves into the careers of some of the most iconic musicians and bands of the past few decades who, despite their talent, never got the recognition they deserved. Season 3, Episode 5 is all about the legendary funk musician George Clinton, who is widely regarded as one of the most innovative and influential musicians of the late 20th century.
Clinton got his start in the music industry in the 1950s as a doo-wop singer and songwriter. However, it wasn't until the late 1960s and early 1970s that he would truly make his mark on the world of music. During this time, he formed the band Funkadelic, which blended elements of funk, soul, and rock to create a completely new sound that was unlike anything anyone had ever heard before. The band's unique style quickly gained a following, and they became known for their live performances, which were notoriously wild and eccentric.
Despite their success, Clinton and Funkadelic never achieved mainstream success in the same way that other bands of the era did. They were always on the fringes of the music industry, which allowed them to create the boundary-pushing music that they were known for. However, it also meant that they never got the recognition that they deserved.
The episode explores Clinton's career in depth, from his early days as a struggling musician to his rise to fame with Funkadelic. It also delves into some of the difficulties that Clinton faced along the way, including drug addiction and legal troubles. However, despite all of these challenges, Clinton and his bandmates continued to push the boundaries of music and inspire generations of musicians to come.
Throughout the episode, we hear from a variety of people who knew Clinton and worked with him over the years. This includes fellow musicians, industry insiders, and members of Clinton's own family. They all offer insights into what made Clinton such a unique and important figure in the music industry, and how his legacy continues to live on today.
Overall, UnSung's episode on George Clinton is a fascinating look at one of the most innovative and influential musicians of the past few decades. It sheds light on a career that has often been overlooked, and shows how Clinton's contributions to music continue to be felt today. Whether you're a die-hard fan of funk music or just someone who appreciates great music, this episode is definitely worth a watch.