Ep 1. Montell Jordan

UnSung chronicles the life and career of accomplished musical artists who, despite chart-topping successes, never quite achieved the level of fame and recognition they deserved. Season 8 Episode 1 focuses on none other than Montell Jordan, the R&B and hip-hop artist who lit up the 90s with his smooth voice, catchy beats, and unforgettable hits.

The episode begins with a nostalgic look at Montell Jordan's early years. Born in Los Angeles in 1968, Jordan spent his formative years in a tight-knit, musically-inclined family. His father was a worship leader and his mother a choir director, instilling in him a deep love for music and a passion for performing. With his parents' encouragement, Jordan joined his high school choir and quickly became a standout performer. His incredible talent caught the eye of record executives, and soon he was signed to Def Jam Records, launching a career that would take him all the way to the top.

The episode weaves together a mix of interviews with Jordan himself, his friends and family, and industry insiders to tell the story of his rise to fame. We see him performing his early hits like "This Is How We Do It," "Let's Ride," and "Something 4 Da Honeyz" at packed concerts, exuding charisma and energy and drawing in fans from all walks of life. But we also see behind-the-scenes footage of Jordan struggling with the pressures of success - the long hours in the studio, the grueling tour schedules, and the intense scrutiny from the media and fans that comes with being a superstar.

As the episode progresses, we see Jordan evolving as an artist. He began to experiment with his sound, fusing R&B, hip-hop, and gospel influences to create a sound all his own. He released hits like "I Can Do That" and "Get It On Tonite," which showcased his incredible vocal range and musical versatility. We also see Jordan branching out into other fields, like acting and producing, and beginning to use his platform to advocate for social justice issues.

The episode doesn't shy away from the challenges Jordan faced throughout his career. We see how his success came at a cost, with the pressures of fame straining his relationships and leading him to make some questionable decisions. There were also struggles with substance abuse and mental health, as Jordan grappled with the stress and intensity of the music industry. But throughout it all, we see Jordan's unwavering commitment to his art and his fans.

Ultimately, the episode leaves us with a deep appreciation for Montell Jordan's incredible talent and the impact he had on the music industry. We see how his infectious energy and unbridled passion for music inspired a generation of performers and fans, and paved the way for a new wave of R&B and hip-hop artists. But we also see the sacrifices he made and the challenges he faced, serving as a reminder that success in the music industry is never guaranteed, and always comes at a price.

UnSung Season 8 Episode 1 "Montell Jordan" is a must-watch for any fan of 90s R&B and hip-hop. Thoughtful and nuanced, it offers a fascinating look at one of the most dynamic and influential performers of the era, and reminds us of the enduring power of music to shape our lives and connect us to one another.