Ep 4. Lou Rawls

Unsung is a documentary TV series that focuses on legendary African American musicians who never received the level of accolades they deserved. The show seeks to give viewers an in-depth account of the lives and careers of these musicians, and how they have influenced the music industry.

In season six, episode four, the show highlights the life and career of Lou Rawls. Lou Rawls was a renowned American soul, jazz, and blues singer who was born in Chicago in 1933. He had a long and successful career, spanning over five decades. Rawls began his music career in the 1950s, singing with gospel groups and bands. He started gaining recognition in the 1960s with hit singles like "Love is a Hurtin' Thing" and "Dead End Street."

Throughout the episode, viewers are taken on a journey through Rawls' life and career. The documentary features interviews with Rawls' friends, family members, fellow musicians, and industry insiders who provide valuable insights into his personal and professional life. They discuss his rise to fame, his struggles and challenges along the way, and the impact he had on the music industry.

The episode delves into Rawls' early life, including his childhood in the tough streets of Chicago. Viewers learn about his early days singing in gospel choirs and how he fell in love with music. Rawls later joined the army and was stationed in Japan, where he continued to sing and perform in local clubs.

After leaving the military, Rawls returned to the United States and continued his music career, moving to Los Angeles, where he landed a job singing in a local club. His big break came when he was discovered by Capitol Records, and he signed his first record deal in the early 1960s. Rawls' unique voice and singing style helped him stand out among peers in the music scene, and he quickly became a popular performer with hits reaching the top of Billboard charts.

Viewers get to see how Rawls' career flourished in the 1970s, where he continued to produce hits like "You'll Never Find Another Love Like Mine" and "Lady Love." The documentary also discusses how Rawls used his platform as a successful musician to give back to his community through various charitable organizations.

Throughout the episode, there are also clips of Rawls' performances, providing a sense of his charisma and astounding talent. The documentary concludes with a discussion of Rawls' legacy, discussing the impact he had on the music industry and on other musicians who were inspired by his work.

In summary, the season six episode four of Unsung, titled "Lou Rawls," gives viewers a detailed insight into the life and career of the legendary musician. Rawls' contributions to the music industry are highlighted, highlighting not only the challenges he overcame but also the immense success he achieved throughout his decades-long career. The episode ultimately pays tribute to Lou Rawls, an artist who may have been "unsung" for far too long.