Ep 17. Arrested Development

UnSung season 5 episode 17 is titled "Arrested Development." This episode focuses on the iconic hip-hop group Arrested Development, which was formed in Atlanta, Georgia in 1988. The group consisted of Speech, Montsho Eshe, Baba Oje, JJ Boogie, Headliner, Rasa Don, Dionne Farris, Aerle Taree, and One Love. Arrested Development is known for their socially conscious lyrics and unique style, which incorporated elements of blues, soul, and gospel music.

The episode explores the group's rise to fame in the early 1990s, including the release of their debut album "3 Years, 5 Months and 2 Days in the Life Of..." which went multi-platinum and earned the group two Grammy Awards. UnSung features interviews with group members, family members, and industry insiders, as they discuss the formation, struggles, and eventual success of the group.

Viewers will learn about the inspiration behind the group's name, which was chosen to reflect their belief that society was "arrested in development" due to its focus on materialism and superficiality. UnSung also explores the group's politically charged lyrics and their commitment to using music as a tool for social change. Interviews with fans reveal the group's impact on the wider culture and their role in shaping hip-hop's political consciousness.

The episode delves into the group's internal dynamics, including tensions between group members and conflicts with their record label, Chrysalis Records. Interviews with former label executives shed light on the challenges facing the group as they sought to maintain creative control over their music and message.

UnSung also explores the group's eventual split in the mid-1990s, as members went their separate ways to pursue solo projects. Viewers will learn about the various challenges faced by individual members, including financial struggles, addiction, and personal tragedy. Despite these difficulties, the group continued to be an influential force in hip-hop, with several members going on to have successful solo careers.

The episode concludes with a reflection on the lasting legacy of Arrested Development and their impact on hip-hop and popular culture. Viewers are left with a sense of the group's resilience and their contribution to a genre that continues to attract new listeners and inspire social change.

Overall, UnSung season 5 episode 17 is a poignant tribute to Arrested Development and their outsized impact on hip-hop and popular culture. Through interviews, archival footage, and music, viewers will gain a deeper understanding of the group's message and the challenges they faced along the way. The episode is a must-see for fans of hip-hop and anyone interested in the power of music to effect social change.