Ep 3. The Emotions

UnSung season 8 episode 3 titled "The Emotions" is an insightful and nostalgic look at the iconic R&B and soul group, The Emotions. This episode takes viewers on a journey through the group's rise to fame, the challenges they faced, and the impact they made on the music industry.

The episode begins by introducing viewers to the three sisters that make up The Emotions: Wanda, Jeanette, and Sheila Hutchinson. The sisters discuss their childhood, growing up in Chicago, and how their father's love of music influenced them. From an early age, music was an integral part of their lives, and they sang in their church choir.

The Emotions' big break came in the early 1970s when they signed with Stax Records. The label was home to legendary artists such as Isaac Hayes and Otis Redding, and The Emotions were thrilled to be a part of it. The group's first single, "So I Can Love You," became an instant hit, launching the sisters into the national spotlight.

The episode explores the group's early success and the challenges they faced as they navigated the music industry. The Emotions discuss the racism and sexism they encountered and how they persevered through it all. They also talk about working with legendary music producer, Maurice White of Earth, Wind, & Fire, who helped guide their career and shape their sound.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to exclusive interviews with some of The Emotions' biggest fans and collaborators, including Sheila E., Philip Bailey of Earth, Wind, & Fire, and singer-songwriter Angela Winbush. They share their admiration for the group and how their music has impacted their lives and careers.

The episode also delves into The Emotions' most famous song, "Best of My Love," which won a Grammy in 1978 and became a disco and R&B classic. The sisters talk about the making of the song and the inspiration behind it. Viewers get to hear from the song's co-writer, Al McKay, who discusses the creative process and how he wrote the guitar riff that became the song's signature hook.

As the episode comes to a close, viewers see how The Emotions' legacy has endured over the years. The group has not only influenced other artists but has also remained relevant in contemporary pop culture. We see how their music has been sampled and remixed by hip hop artists such as Tupac, Biggie Smalls, and Kanye West.

Overall, UnSung season 8 episode 3 titled "The Emotions" is a must-watch for any R&B and soul music fan. It offers a touching and inspiring account of The Emotions' career, their challenges, and their impact on the music industry. It's a fitting tribute to one of the greatest female groups of all time.