Ep 1. Deniece Williams

UnSung is a documentary-style music series that explores the lives and careers of iconic yet underappreciated R&B, soul, and gospel artists from the 1970s, 80s, and 90s. Season 4 episode 1 focuses on the life and music of Deniece Williams.

Born June Deniece Chandler in Gary, Indiana, Williams showed an early talent for music and singing. She began writing and performing her own songs at a young age, and by her early 20s, she had signed a recording contract with Columbia Records.

Throughout the 1970s, Williams made a name for herself in the music industry as a solo artist and as a backup singer for artists like Stevie Wonder and Roberta Flack. Her first big hit came in 1976 with the release of "Free", a powerful and uplifting ballad that quickly climbed the charts and earned her a Grammy nomination for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance.

Over the next decade, Williams continued to churn out hits, including "It's Gonna Take a Miracle", "Let's Hear It for the Boy", and "Silly". Her voice, which ranged from a whispered croon to a full-throated wail, earned her comparisons to legendary R&B singers like Aretha Franklin and Patti LaBelle.

But Williams' success in the music industry was not without its challenges. As a black woman in a male-dominated industry, she faced discrimination and misogyny from record executives and fellow artists alike. She also struggled with personal demons, including drug addiction and an abusive marriage.

Despite these setbacks, Williams persevered and continued to create music that touched the hearts and souls of millions of fans around the world. Season 4 episode 1 of UnSung pays tribute to her legacy, featuring interviews with Williams herself as well as her family members, friends, and former collaborators.

Viewers will learn about the highs and lows of Williams' career, from her early days performing in nightclubs to her chart-topping success in the 1980s. They will also hear about the personal struggles that shaped her life and music, including her battle with drug addiction and her decision to leave her abusive husband.

Throughout the episode, Williams' music takes center stage. Fans will relive the glory days of hits like "Let's Hear It for the Boy" and "I Believe in You", as well as lesser-known gems like "They Say" and "Cause You Love Me Baby". The episode also features rare archival footage of Williams performing live, showcasing her powerful voice and magnetic stage presence.

Ultimately, season 4 episode 1 of UnSung is a moving tribute to Deniece Williams and the enduring legacy of her music. It serves as a reminder of the power of art to uplift, inspire, and heal, even in the face of adversity.