Ep 2. Hi-Five

UnSung is back for its eighth season, and in episode two, the spotlight is on R&B group Hi-Five. The group is known for their smooth vocals and classic 90s hits like "I Like the Way (The Kissing Game)" and "She's Playing Hard To Get." However, their success was not without its challenges.

The episode delves into the origins of the group, which started in Waco, Texas, with founding members Tony Thompson, Russell Neal, Marcus Sanders, and Roderick "Pooh" Clark. The group got their big break in 1989 when Jive Records signed them and paired them with legendary producer Teddy Riley. Under Riley's guidance, Hi-Five crafted their signature sound of pop-infused R&B and released their self-titled debut album in 1990.

The album was a massive success, going platinum and spawning three hit singles. However, the group's success was not without its difficulties. The members had to deal with the pressures of fame and the pitfalls of the music industry, including squabbles with record label executives and legal battles. The episode also explores the tragic loss of Tony Thompson, who died in 2007 from a drug overdose.

Through interviews with the surviving members of Hi-Five and their collaborators, UnSung gets an intimate look at the group's journey. We see how they dealt with the ups and downs of the music industry and how they managed to create enduring hits that remain staples of 90s R&B. We also get to hear some behind-the-scenes stories about the making of their music, including how they came up with the iconic melody for "I Like the Way (The Kissing Game)."

Overall, UnSung season 8 episode 2 is a must-watch for fans of 90s R&B and music history in general. It's an in-depth look at a group that defined that era of music and paved the way for countless artists to follow. With its mix of interviews, archival footage, and classic music, it's a compelling and engaging episode that any music fan will enjoy.