After glancing thru the comments, I think people just have different interpretations of the word "unsung". I feel that Lady T never got the props she deserved and I attribute that to poor marketing hence poor management. Because my girl can BLOW...she didn't need any enhancements from studio equipment and shit...her shit was natural, not only natural but also original! Whether or not she was on drugs to me was irrevelent...She was an artist in every sense of the word, A master at her craft
tv one please post the whole episode i missed it at the time dealingn with family problem and teena was my girl i really hate that she passed on but i guess GOD needed another artist in heaven
Sadly I didn't even think of Teena Marie as being white and it never even done me until I started reading these comments. The first thing the papers had to state was that she was a white singer that crossed over to R and B. This world is so racist. Why do people have to make negative comments. Help them Jesus.
@denzo30 your a liar blacks loved teena. she got more love from blacks than she got from her own people. her being white has nothing to do with it she could sang
@mjjcng8958 Rick took her poem/song book and STOLD Deja Vu, wrote music to it...then Teena sang it; never knowing it was HER OWN BEAUTIFUL words she wrote earlier, before she was 'discovered.' Yes, I believe Motown Execs, and others, just listened to her while she crooned ALL day in their offices...and took her for granted. Then Rick was asked to push her & got most of the credit for Jah's talent on Teena. They even wanted to hide her 'Whiteness!" on da 1st album! Kinda pisses me off '-'
@funkateerkitty alright but the fans loved he. it was a good thing they didnt put her face on the cover. i don think people would have taken her seriously. i think people blow that out of proportion
@mjjcng8958 I believe she had one of the VERY FINEST voices of all times. We were friends in the 80's...I moved away, and I sure miss her. I wish I had re-connected, thot I wud '-' I will meake it a point to reach out to Alia, God permitting, I will tell her about her mother in her youth :) I truly truly love Teena, what an angel here on earth...not many knew that she was in their midst :/ Jah Bless de I's.
@denzo30 We Blacks like drugs more? Bullshit. Typical racist? Takes one to know one bitch. The difference between my "racism" and yours is you were born a RACIST so fuck you and your family.
EEEW! I REMEMBER, I remeber when they were in Houston, and they were on stage, a group of us went to c'em, and I TOLD the group Lady T looks mad, and the group said NO" she's his main-sqeeze". I said "maybe so", but Teena is mad as hell" I saw BEYOND the smiles. Oh my goodness I loved her THEN, and I LOVE her NOW. We grew up together. I remeber when she 1st came out. Her music kept me and my husbands relationship hot, like STILL. Love Ya! Lady T
Thank You "Unsung" for being the ONLY ones who honored Lady Tee BEFORE her death; like their all going to try to do now! She was underated in the R&B world as far as awards go. BET, Lady Of Soul, and any other black ent. basically ignored her IMO (not the fans, never the fans, we knew what we had ) but she should've had a Grammy or other awards. She was before Mariah, Whitney, and Christina. She was a multi-talented singer, producer, songwriter, arranger, angel. R.I.P. Lady Tee I love You
She came up through the early 80's... That was a harsh era for drugs. Plus she was hanging with Rick James. That era produced some of the best music ever. R.I.P Teena Marie ...... You are gone but never forgotten.
@batosmak Teena never got hooked to drugs! That was the reason why she left Rick James. This pain killer thing came later on in life (within the past few years) because of a picture falling on her head while she was asleep. The head injury is what brought the seizures!!! She said it herself!
SORRY TO HEAR OF TEENA MARIE PASSING, LOVE GOES OUT TO HER FAMILY AND FRIENDS. HERS VOICE WAS ONE AND ONLY. SHE WILL BE MISSED, BUT HER VOICE LIVES ON WHEN YOU HEAR HER BEAUTIFUL VOICE IN HER MUSIC. PEACE AND LOVE, FROM FAN
You know he ain't shit LOL BUT THAT'S MY MAN u did that right leave that joker alone love him but leave him alone...R.I.P. say hello to all my brothers and sisters up there tell'em we miss y'all and tell'em I 'm Still FUNKEN AND ROCKEN I'LL BRING THE NEW ONES ON THE FUNK NEW FUNKERS OH I LUV' YOU SO MUCH YOUR DAUGHTER WILL CONTINUE ON SHE HAS YOUR GIFT AND WILL SHARE YOUR LOVE AND GREAT TALENT FOR THE NEW FUNKERS OF 21CENTURY 2011 AND BEYOND
@FireitupBedford first off, she was signed to motown prior to knowing james, don'y u think that they heard quality? Eventually that T for Tenacious, lady would have made it. No doubt. james brought notoriety , and no doubt, she was as well, transformed by ther relationship, musically, and personally, but none the less she would surely most definitely risen, the star that she was! May she now and forever, rest in peace.
@FireitupBedford rick might have helped her in the "industry" aspect, and that was probably more for his benefit than hers as we all know he was robbin' her ass blind! But her voice speaks for itself...she didn't have any assistance from Rick for those vocal cords, God deserves the credit for that! There would be no Teena Marie without Rick James...I ain' feelin dat! But anyway...can u post Teena's Sleeping with the Enemy off the Sappire cd
@FireitupBedford rick might have helped her in the "industry" aspect, and that was probably more for his benefit than hers as we all know he was robbin' her ass blind! But her voice speaks for itself...she didn't have any assistance from Rick for those vocal cords, God deserves the credit for that! There would be no Teena Marie without Rick James...I ain' feelin dat! But anyway...can u post Teena's Sleeping with the Enemy off the Sappire cd
i think teena is full of shit. i knew someone who hanged with them from buffalo. teena sany rymes constantly. rick was a ladies man and had no interest in her but she loved his sista
I know people are just expressing their opinion, but I'm just SO GLAD that TV One put this series together that anything it might be missing is really irrelevant to me. It's not a documentary, it's just an hour show highlighting the artists career and life.
It's just so great to have a show on about artists (mainly R&B) that I've loved for so long who don't get much, if any media attention.
How many children does Teena have? Unfornately i didn't get a chance to catch the Unsung special about her life when it aired. I always thought she and Rick James had children together.
She has 1 child, Aria Rose. She has a god-daughter. Aria Rose has been on every album since La Dona and she performs with Teena during her shows. Her stage name is Rose LeBeau
@TheBeauty88 not really, Teena was her own woman and left Rick, succesfuly sued Motown, wrote "Square Biz" and other hits, such as" Lovergirl", and continued making her own loot with a long string of succesful cds. Tina got beat up, Teena beat it!
@PhuckHue2 Coming from you, most likely a complement. Rick knew music inside, and out, and was indeed, a very rare genius, and at one time a superstar, at least in R&B, but there was always a camp that disliked him, they were more jealous than anything. I seen Rick live a couple 3 times and believe me, he was always about giving the performance, and audience 11o% and his band was really hot! Yeah he had serious issues, personality flaws, addictions what have you, the music stands for itself!
@souporsonic cocaine totally destroyed Rick. It damaged his brain and musical talents. He was very close with his mother and she went through hell. The only thing that kept him from going broke was the million dollar checks he got when his music was sampled. Teena was also hooked on drugs but she kicked the habit
@PhuckHue2 yer right about Rick, he was basically reduced to a blithering parody of himself (i.e. Judge Mathis!) and Teena? I don't know anything about her drug history, but both were absolutely stellar musicians and should be remembered for their positive contributions, but also, a warning as to the perils getting into hard drugs and/or alcohol.
All of you kiss my ass. Teena deserves this as she is underated. And yes she is still recording would you prefer her dead then have them do this. She never really got the respect and Motown did nothing but fuck her over because of her color and screwed her over money wise as well that she left the label and went to court and the Teena Marie Law was develope. Just be happy and stop comparing. If you were a true fan you would be excited. So go to hell!!! Teena rocks!!!!
I'm so tired of seeing/hearing Dyana Williams with her "notions" she don't know what the heck she talking about. LOL - Shut UP Dyana. U are old, dried up and just keep talking BS.
This must the first ever show dedicated to teena marie after all these years so to me..its well overdue...she is prolly the most underated singer to me in the rnb/soul genre. cant wait to watch this...& she is comming to london in jan 2010!!! woooo its been almost 20 yrs since she played live here. luv her
First off, Teena is a great artiste and TORE UP the live show this summer in Philly, check here on YT.
Second, "Unsung" refers to the untold story behind these musicians, not that they are unrecognized. Like "Behind The Music"; what you may not know outside of the records.
I find myself echoing alot of the feelings allready posted. I consider mself to be a HUGE Teena Marie fan and dont see her fitting into the "Unsung" category. She may not have a wall full of platinum records or much exposure outside of black radio. But homegirl is still doing her thing and continues to sell out shows and have hit albums to this day. Her story lacks that "oh shit, thats fucked up" factor to it. Hopefully theyll come around and do an Unsung episode for JENNIFER HOLLIDAY. Agreed?
@omar505 You must be out your mind! Teena was looooooooong overdue for an Unsung or any tributes. That woman contributed some of the most beautiful music ever written. Puleaze youngin.
I love Teena.. but "Is she really Unsung?" Teena is "hardly" Unsung. She's had hits from almost every album she's done. Its like when VH1 says she and Cheryl Lynn are One Hit Wonders. Teena is one of the few artist that has had a hit single in the last 4 decades (70's, 80's, 90's, and 2000s with Still In Love). I will enjoy the show but even the promo looks to be more about Rick than Teena. You should have done a Mary Jane Girls Unsung. Thank you.
Heyyy.. "Somebody thumbs us down" LOL But oh well.. I like Teen and as I just explained below in another post. I just didn't think she was Unsung. She's still recording today and has an album that just came out on Stax. (Cheryl Lynn, Evelyn Champagne King, Stacy Lattisaw are some Unsung Divas if they were looking for some). One comment was "she didnt' have hardly any pop hits. Neither did Stephanie Mills, but she aint' Unsung. (Just my friendly Youtube debate). Don't won't anybody to get upset.
Actually, most of her 'hits' were on the R&B charts and most did not hit high (hardly any hit Pop). She barely got any play besides 'Black' radio (though being a 'white artist') and in 30 years of recording has only had THREE albums hit gold.
Yes, in my opinion, she is unsung. Teena has NEVER won a Grammy though she has written, composed, produced nearly everyone of her albums. Alot of folks claim 'white folks' get promoted and support but Teena barely did.
MsMerising... I wasn't bashing Teena. Please dont' get me wrong. I love her like the next person. I just didnt' understand how she is "Unsung". I think Phyllis and Minnie deserved it. But Teena is still recording today. As for as getting air play on Pop radio, then Luther and Patti would be Unsung too. It it's because she's "white" and didn't get air play, then Lisa Stansfield is more Unsung than Teena. (I'll just agree to disagree). Take care (smile). Just a friendly debate.
Of course Teena is still recording today - she has not passed on like Phyllis & Minnie (strike one!).
Ssecondly - Lisa Stansfield? What has Lisa contributed to the legacy of soul/R&B/funk music? (Strike two!).
I think I know why there is some backlash to Teena getting some 'shine' on Unsung. Because her presence in the older 'Black' community is quite strong, they don't understand that Teena has never got any true props outside a core audience.
I'm not upset, I just think your analysis and stance is flawed, that's all. Hence why I am challening your stance :)
Cheryl Lynn had an incredible track on 'Shark Tale' and had MAJOR hits in the 70's/80's. Cheryl is ALSO 'Unsung' because MANY assume she is a one-hit wonder.
Remember, most folks are not die-hard music fans like myself (and possibly you). Most folks don't KNOW many of these artists besides an occasional track. Hence, they are 'Unsung'.
I think some people think that because they know and follow an artist that makes them famous. A lot of them are indeed unsung becasue their talents are not appreciated or promoted as widely as they should be. Many of them should and could be phenomenal mainstream successes instead of only having a limited following or niche or social following. Agree with your analogy re: Cheryl Lynn to be real was not the only hit just the biggest mainstream one.
I also do not think that 'tragedy' should make someone 'Unsung'. I wish Phyllis Hyman did NOT committ suicide and could have been here for the making of her 'Unsung'. I have no interest in seeing musicians crucified, only celebrated for their talent and the heart they pour into their music.
Teena is barely known to most. She rarely, if ever tours outside this country. She's 'Unsung'. And I can't WAIT to see her praises sung next month :D
I agree. like the Donny Hathaway segment focused too much on his mental illness instead of his music. Perhaps because it began to overshadow his musical output. The show could have focused on the music more. This Christmas alone was a big enough hit to warrant it's own show lol ...
I personally didn't like the Phyllis special, either. I have read the book 'Strength of a Woman' and they barely played ANY clips of her performing (which was her strength. NO ONE sings like Phyllis live - no one).
I was very pleased with the Minnie Riperton one, though. I would have like to have seen more focus on her album 'Stay In Love' but there was ALOT of personal footage which as a hardcore Minnie fan hit me hard. Can't wait to see Teena!!
I agree. Phyllis' segment barely scratched the surface of her under appreciated talent. I think it was "sanitized" in order to not put Clive Davis on blast because he essentially created the vicious cycle of her career not getting off the ground like it should have. She was an artist on Arista that was treated like a bald headed step child. She sang her heart out even though the songs she was given were so substandard. They should have had more live clips.
Zapp was an underground group. Ditto for Bootsy Collins. Because they are well known in a particular social context (the underground) some cats are whining that they are NOT 'Unsung'. None of these cats have gotten the accolades they deserve. They have gotten PROPS (via shout-outs and being sampled) but truthfully, they are far from lauded outside their core circle.
Remember, Gold status is 500,000 units. In a country of over 200 million that's a drop in the bucket.
MsMerising.. I didn't think you were upset at all (smile). I understand friendly debate when I see it. I think I (like many) may have been confused by TV One's purpose of "Unsung". Teena's story should be heard. I just didnt' see her as being "Unsung" since she did sell a lot of records in the AA community and we love her. I think she should write a book or a movie told about her life. She's awesome. I just didn't think she was Unsung. JMO (Shirley Brown, Millie Jackson need an Unsung too). LOL
Again, Teena has only gone gold three times in her life...that's not exactly 'selling' alot of records (most of her money would be accumulated from owning her publishing as well as touring, actually).
I lobby she's 'Unsung'. And yes, I stand behind you on Millie Jackson. Millie would be FUN to hear speak. I will never forget seeing a video of her performing as a teen ('Live & Uncensored' is still a personal fav :P)
@thejukejoint the Mary Jane Girls where kinda cool , for about a minute. Teena was an artist with a 30+ history of creating music that really touched people deeply, and aside from the support of her loyal fan base, never fully recieved the recognition, or accolades that she deserved. Long live the music of Teena Marie, and may she rest in peace.
TEENA KEPT IT REAL RICK JAMES WAS A TRIP BUT I LOVED THEM BOTH CLASSICS
prettygirlswagg777 2 months ago
I hate to think of Tina not being here anymore :(
wheatthin2012 8 months ago
After glancing thru the comments, I think people just have different interpretations of the word "unsung". I feel that Lady T never got the props she deserved and I attribute that to poor marketing hence poor management. Because my girl can BLOW...she didn't need any enhancements from studio equipment and shit...her shit was natural, not only natural but also original! Whether or not she was on drugs to me was irrevelent...She was an artist in every sense of the word, A master at her craft
pinkkiieee 9 months ago
Teena should have told him, "I'm on to you Rick, so quit your pimpin'!"
pc0p1mp 10 months ago
☮ & ❤
Rest Easy, Lady T
betsumcash 11 months ago
Comment removed
betsumcash 11 months ago
tv one please post the whole episode i missed it at the time dealingn with family problem and teena was my girl i really hate that she passed on but i guess GOD needed another artist in heaven
perryclouse1 1 year ago
no.. whites r tolerant people. y is it that blacks hate everyone but themselves and that is ok?
denzo30 1 year ago
@denzo30 aww shuut it
mjjcng8958 1 year ago
no but has everything 2 do witu loser
denzo30 1 year ago
Sadly I didn't even think of Teena Marie as being white and it never even done me until I started reading these comments. The first thing the papers had to state was that she was a white singer that crossed over to R and B. This world is so racist. Why do people have to make negative comments. Help them Jesus.
IMissMyMichael 1 year ago
blacks r so racists. teena marie appeased 2 ur audience and u still cant even appraise her
denzo30 1 year ago
@denzo30 you need to shut the fuck up. I appreciate teena marie dick wipe. the comment about drugs had nothing to do with her.
ankokugaiBOSS 1 year ago
@denzo30 your a liar blacks loved teena. she got more love from blacks than she got from her own people. her being white has nothing to do with it she could sang
mjjcng8958 1 year ago
@mjjcng8958 Rick took her poem/song book and STOLD Deja Vu, wrote music to it...then Teena sang it; never knowing it was HER OWN BEAUTIFUL words she wrote earlier, before she was 'discovered.' Yes, I believe Motown Execs, and others, just listened to her while she crooned ALL day in their offices...and took her for granted. Then Rick was asked to push her & got most of the credit for Jah's talent on Teena. They even wanted to hide her 'Whiteness!" on da 1st album! Kinda pisses me off '-'
funkateerkitty 9 months ago
@funkateerkitty alright but the fans loved he. it was a good thing they didnt put her face on the cover. i don think people would have taken her seriously. i think people blow that out of proportion
mjjcng8958 9 months ago
@mjjcng8958 at one...one day...just like Rev. MLK Jr. said, We will not be judged by the color of our skin.
funkateerkitty 8 months ago
@mjjcng8958 I'm sorry! I meant to say, "I totally agree wit U on that one gf!!!
funkateerkitty 8 months ago
@mjjcng8958 I believe she had one of the VERY FINEST voices of all times. We were friends in the 80's...I moved away, and I sure miss her. I wish I had re-connected, thot I wud '-' I will meake it a point to reach out to Alia, God permitting, I will tell her about her mother in her youth :) I truly truly love Teena, what an angel here on earth...not many knew that she was in their midst :/ Jah Bless de I's.
funkateerkitty 9 months ago
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SHE DIED OF AN OVERDOSE OF WIGGERNESS.
AESOPPOSEA1 1 year ago
cocaine is a hell of a drug....but it's "ok" as long as only white people are using it
ankokugaiBOSS 1 year ago
@ankokugaiBOSS oh really? white people? we like booze. u blacks like drugs more. so typical racist
denzo30 1 year ago
@denzo30 We Blacks like drugs more? Bullshit. Typical racist? Takes one to know one bitch. The difference between my "racism" and yours is you were born a RACIST so fuck you and your family.
ankokugaiBOSS 1 year ago
cocaine is one hell of a drug! lol.
whitesongs73 1 year ago
cocaine is on hell of a drug! lol.
whitesongs73 1 year ago
Yup thats the Trickster Rickster.
FunkDoppler 1 year ago
EEEW! I REMEMBER, I remeber when they were in Houston, and they were on stage, a group of us went to c'em, and I TOLD the group Lady T looks mad, and the group said NO" she's his main-sqeeze". I said "maybe so", but Teena is mad as hell" I saw BEYOND the smiles. Oh my goodness I loved her THEN, and I LOVE her NOW. We grew up together. I remeber when she 1st came out. Her music kept me and my husbands relationship hot, like STILL. Love Ya! Lady T
icehouse1112 1 year ago
Thank You "Unsung" for being the ONLY ones who honored Lady Tee BEFORE her death; like their all going to try to do now! She was underated in the R&B world as far as awards go. BET, Lady Of Soul, and any other black ent. basically ignored her IMO (not the fans, never the fans, we knew what we had ) but she should've had a Grammy or other awards. She was before Mariah, Whitney, and Christina. She was a multi-talented singer, producer, songwriter, arranger, angel. R.I.P. Lady Tee I love You
atlasshrugged2u 1 year ago
She came up through the early 80's... That was a harsh era for drugs. Plus she was hanging with Rick James. That era produced some of the best music ever. R.I.P Teena Marie ...... You are gone but never forgotten.
batosmak 1 year ago
@batosmak Teena never got hooked to drugs! That was the reason why she left Rick James. This pain killer thing came later on in life (within the past few years) because of a picture falling on her head while she was asleep. The head injury is what brought the seizures!!! She said it herself!
rufus317 1 year ago
I pray she rests in peace. SHE WAS ONE OF A KIND!
SWPAMBA 1 year ago
I love hearing about her and Rick's crazy relationship. A trip!
EternalTDG 1 year ago
RIP TEENA MARIE U WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN
Venau2008 1 year ago
SORRY TO HEAR OF TEENA MARIE PASSING, LOVE GOES OUT TO HER FAMILY AND FRIENDS. HERS VOICE WAS ONE AND ONLY. SHE WILL BE MISSED, BUT HER VOICE LIVES ON WHEN YOU HEAR HER BEAUTIFUL VOICE IN HER MUSIC. PEACE AND LOVE, FROM FAN
Sweetie54j 1 year ago
They are replaying this episode right now on TVOne.
JazZmineMadu 1 year ago
DAMN I NEED TV ONE!!!!
roscoegino 1 year ago
Heaven has gain a Angel may u RIP Luv u Lady T
dnic28 1 year ago
RIP Teena Marie. I love you
breaknbeat 1 year ago
You know he ain't shit LOL BUT THAT'S MY MAN u did that right leave that joker alone love him but leave him alone...R.I.P. say hello to all my brothers and sisters up there tell'em we miss y'all and tell'em I 'm Still FUNKEN AND ROCKEN I'LL BRING THE NEW ONES ON THE FUNK NEW FUNKERS OH I LUV' YOU SO MUCH YOUR DAUGHTER WILL CONTINUE ON SHE HAS YOUR GIFT AND WILL SHARE YOUR LOVE AND GREAT TALENT FOR THE NEW FUNKERS OF 21CENTURY 2011 AND BEYOND
myfunkyway9 1 year ago
RIP Ms. Teena ... Oh god your voice was like Butta ... We Miss you already!
chyna2038 1 year ago 3
RIP Teena Marie.
spicedmama 1 year ago
Hey, they didn't call "Slick Rick" for nuthin,haha!!!
fjj8 1 year ago
There would be no Teena Marie without Rick James period...
FireitupBedford 1 year ago
@FireitupBedford How could you say that? Did you listen to her voice??????
jerjorju 1 year ago
@FireitupBedford first off, she was signed to motown prior to knowing james, don'y u think that they heard quality? Eventually that T for Tenacious, lady would have made it. No doubt. james brought notoriety , and no doubt, she was as well, transformed by ther relationship, musically, and personally, but none the less she would surely most definitely risen, the star that she was! May she now and forever, rest in peace.
souporsonic 1 year ago
@FireitupBedford rick might have helped her in the "industry" aspect, and that was probably more for his benefit than hers as we all know he was robbin' her ass blind! But her voice speaks for itself...she didn't have any assistance from Rick for those vocal cords, God deserves the credit for that! There would be no Teena Marie without Rick James...I ain' feelin dat! But anyway...can u post Teena's Sleeping with the Enemy off the Sappire cd
pinkkiieee 9 months ago
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@FireitupBedford rick might have helped her in the "industry" aspect, and that was probably more for his benefit than hers as we all know he was robbin' her ass blind! But her voice speaks for itself...she didn't have any assistance from Rick for those vocal cords, God deserves the credit for that! There would be no Teena Marie without Rick James...I ain' feelin dat! But anyway...can u post Teena's Sleeping with the Enemy off the Sappire cd
pinkkiieee 9 months ago
i think teena is full of shit. i knew someone who hanged with them from buffalo. teena sany rymes constantly. rick was a ladies man and had no interest in her but she loved his sista
denzo30 1 year ago
fuck ur couch nigga. get a new one.
whitesongs73 1 year ago 2
wow Teena love her......She is so real ....
carmendecor 1 year ago 2
I would marry Teena today if she would have me
cllamont 2 years ago 2
So nice to know Teena didn't tolerate putting up with shit too long. She can hold her own.
tigerwoman 2 years ago 2
BEAUTIFUL. CORVETTE LOOKS GORGEOUS!
papi420chulo 2 years ago 2
I know people are just expressing their opinion, but I'm just SO GLAD that TV One put this series together that anything it might be missing is really irrelevant to me. It's not a documentary, it's just an hour show highlighting the artists career and life.
It's just so great to have a show on about artists (mainly R&B) that I've loved for so long who don't get much, if any media attention.
So thank you TV One!
Oh...and I LOVE TEENA MARIE!
mediadarling 2 years ago 5
queen of funk :D
lloydpopp13 2 years ago
How many children does Teena have? Unfornately i didn't get a chance to catch the Unsung special about her life when it aired. I always thought she and Rick James had children together.
angelcarmichael 2 years ago
She has 1 child, Aria Rose. She has a god-daughter. Aria Rose has been on every album since La Dona and she performs with Teena during her shows. Her stage name is Rose LeBeau
1stboondockfan 2 years ago 2
Thanks for the info
angelcarmichael 2 years ago
I Love Teena Marie;however I honestly have to say that...Teena and Rick James were like the interracial version of Ike and Tina!! :O
TheBeauty88 2 years ago 28
@TheBeauty88 not really, Teena was her own woman and left Rick, succesfuly sued Motown, wrote "Square Biz" and other hits, such as" Lovergirl", and continued making her own loot with a long string of succesful cds. Tina got beat up, Teena beat it!
souporsonic 1 year ago
@souporsonic PREACH!!!
atlasshrugged2u 1 year ago
Comment removed
TheBeauty88 2 years ago
Why one of the MJ girls still look fab.
We LOVE YA TEENA!!!
Dablkwid0w2008 2 years ago
I don't like this new narrator. I wish they would get Al B Sure to do it again.
ladigirl 2 years ago
OMG That was Al doing Phyllis's story and the ones last year?!
ifusuckilltellu 2 years ago
Yea...I couldn't believe it either. I wish he would come back his voice fit this show better than this new guy.
ladigirl 2 years ago
please can someone post this soon
Thank you
sexymike717 2 years ago
I'm with you Mike. I missed it... disappointed...
chocolady06 2 years ago
Rick James was an asshole
PhuckHue2 2 years ago
@PhuckHue2 Coming from you, most likely a complement. Rick knew music inside, and out, and was indeed, a very rare genius, and at one time a superstar, at least in R&B, but there was always a camp that disliked him, they were more jealous than anything. I seen Rick live a couple 3 times and believe me, he was always about giving the performance, and audience 11o% and his band was really hot! Yeah he had serious issues, personality flaws, addictions what have you, the music stands for itself!
souporsonic 1 year ago
@souporsonic cocaine totally destroyed Rick. It damaged his brain and musical talents. He was very close with his mother and she went through hell. The only thing that kept him from going broke was the million dollar checks he got when his music was sampled. Teena was also hooked on drugs but she kicked the habit
PhuckHue2 1 year ago
@PhuckHue2 yer right about Rick, he was basically reduced to a blithering parody of himself (i.e. Judge Mathis!) and Teena? I don't know anything about her drug history, but both were absolutely stellar musicians and should be remembered for their positive contributions, but also, a warning as to the perils getting into hard drugs and/or alcohol.
souporsonic 1 year ago
Is Rick James her daughter's father?
oofooh 2 years ago
No he is not.
nataliemedia 2 years ago
Thanks.
oofooh 2 years ago
NP!
nataliemedia 2 years ago
no.
coolkid88 2 years ago
@oofooh No. Her daughter has another father (not sure who) -- but he's most likely black. She's a pretty girl.
DivaNLA 1 year ago
All of you kiss my ass. Teena deserves this as she is underated. And yes she is still recording would you prefer her dead then have them do this. She never really got the respect and Motown did nothing but fuck her over because of her color and screwed her over money wise as well that she left the label and went to court and the Teena Marie Law was develope. Just be happy and stop comparing. If you were a true fan you would be excited. So go to hell!!! Teena rocks!!!!
Teenasboy50 2 years ago 12
@Teenasboy50 "Down boy, DOWN!"
oofooh 1 year ago
counting down the days cant wait!!!
emostars71 2 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
Hot ghetto mess.
adangme 2 years ago
I'm so tired of seeing/hearing Dyana Williams with her "notions" she don't know what the heck she talking about. LOL - Shut UP Dyana. U are old, dried up and just keep talking BS.
Illestchamp 2 years ago
LMAO!!!
MommaKnowChile 2 years ago
This must the first ever show dedicated to teena marie after all these years so to me..its well overdue...she is prolly the most underated singer to me in the rnb/soul genre. cant wait to watch this...& she is comming to london in jan 2010!!! woooo its been almost 20 yrs since she played live here. luv her
kvocalist 2 years ago 4
First off, Teena is a great artiste and TORE UP the live show this summer in Philly, check here on YT.
Second, "Unsung" refers to the untold story behind these musicians, not that they are unrecognized. Like "Behind The Music"; what you may not know outside of the records.
Pirate7X 2 years ago
I find myself echoing alot of the feelings allready posted. I consider mself to be a HUGE Teena Marie fan and dont see her fitting into the "Unsung" category. She may not have a wall full of platinum records or much exposure outside of black radio. But homegirl is still doing her thing and continues to sell out shows and have hit albums to this day. Her story lacks that "oh shit, thats fucked up" factor to it. Hopefully theyll come around and do an Unsung episode for JENNIFER HOLLIDAY. Agreed?
omar505 2 years ago
@omar505 You must be out your mind! Teena was looooooooong overdue for an Unsung or any tributes. That woman contributed some of the most beautiful music ever written. Puleaze youngin.
EternalTDG 1 year ago 2
I love Teena.. but "Is she really Unsung?" Teena is "hardly" Unsung. She's had hits from almost every album she's done. Its like when VH1 says she and Cheryl Lynn are One Hit Wonders. Teena is one of the few artist that has had a hit single in the last 4 decades (70's, 80's, 90's, and 2000s with Still In Love). I will enjoy the show but even the promo looks to be more about Rick than Teena. You should have done a Mary Jane Girls Unsung. Thank you.
thejukejoint 2 years ago
I don't get why she's on this show either, but oh well.
robertsnowden19 2 years ago
Heyyy.. "Somebody thumbs us down" LOL But oh well.. I like Teen and as I just explained below in another post. I just didn't think she was Unsung. She's still recording today and has an album that just came out on Stax. (Cheryl Lynn, Evelyn Champagne King, Stacy Lattisaw are some Unsung Divas if they were looking for some). One comment was "she didnt' have hardly any pop hits. Neither did Stephanie Mills, but she aint' Unsung. (Just my friendly Youtube debate). Don't won't anybody to get upset.
thejukejoint 2 years ago
Actually, most of her 'hits' were on the R&B charts and most did not hit high (hardly any hit Pop). She barely got any play besides 'Black' radio (though being a 'white artist') and in 30 years of recording has only had THREE albums hit gold.
Yes, in my opinion, she is unsung. Teena has NEVER won a Grammy though she has written, composed, produced nearly everyone of her albums. Alot of folks claim 'white folks' get promoted and support but Teena barely did.
MsMerising 2 years ago 3
MsMerising... I wasn't bashing Teena. Please dont' get me wrong. I love her like the next person. I just didnt' understand how she is "Unsung". I think Phyllis and Minnie deserved it. But Teena is still recording today. As for as getting air play on Pop radio, then Luther and Patti would be Unsung too. It it's because she's "white" and didn't get air play, then Lisa Stansfield is more Unsung than Teena. (I'll just agree to disagree). Take care (smile). Just a friendly debate.
thejukejoint 2 years ago
Pt.1 :D
Of course Teena is still recording today - she has not passed on like Phyllis & Minnie (strike one!).
Ssecondly - Lisa Stansfield? What has Lisa contributed to the legacy of soul/R&B/funk music? (Strike two!).
I think I know why there is some backlash to Teena getting some 'shine' on Unsung. Because her presence in the older 'Black' community is quite strong, they don't understand that Teena has never got any true props outside a core audience.
MsMerising 2 years ago 2
Pt. 2
I'm not upset, I just think your analysis and stance is flawed, that's all. Hence why I am challening your stance :)
Cheryl Lynn had an incredible track on 'Shark Tale' and had MAJOR hits in the 70's/80's. Cheryl is ALSO 'Unsung' because MANY assume she is a one-hit wonder.
Remember, most folks are not die-hard music fans like myself (and possibly you). Most folks don't KNOW many of these artists besides an occasional track. Hence, they are 'Unsung'.
MsMerising 2 years ago
I think some people think that because they know and follow an artist that makes them famous. A lot of them are indeed unsung becasue their talents are not appreciated or promoted as widely as they should be. Many of them should and could be phenomenal mainstream successes instead of only having a limited following or niche or social following. Agree with your analogy re: Cheryl Lynn to be real was not the only hit just the biggest mainstream one.
Mongo76 2 years ago
Hear, hear.
I also do not think that 'tragedy' should make someone 'Unsung'. I wish Phyllis Hyman did NOT committ suicide and could have been here for the making of her 'Unsung'. I have no interest in seeing musicians crucified, only celebrated for their talent and the heart they pour into their music.
Teena is barely known to most. She rarely, if ever tours outside this country. She's 'Unsung'. And I can't WAIT to see her praises sung next month :D
MsMerising 2 years ago
I agree. like the Donny Hathaway segment focused too much on his mental illness instead of his music. Perhaps because it began to overshadow his musical output. The show could have focused on the music more. This Christmas alone was a big enough hit to warrant it's own show lol ...
Mongo76 2 years ago
I personally didn't like the Phyllis special, either. I have read the book 'Strength of a Woman' and they barely played ANY clips of her performing (which was her strength. NO ONE sings like Phyllis live - no one).
I was very pleased with the Minnie Riperton one, though. I would have like to have seen more focus on her album 'Stay In Love' but there was ALOT of personal footage which as a hardcore Minnie fan hit me hard. Can't wait to see Teena!!
MsMerising 2 years ago 2
I agree. Phyllis' segment barely scratched the surface of her under appreciated talent. I think it was "sanitized" in order to not put Clive Davis on blast because he essentially created the vicious cycle of her career not getting off the ground like it should have. She was an artist on Arista that was treated like a bald headed step child. She sang her heart out even though the songs she was given were so substandard. They should have had more live clips.
indigirl86 2 years ago 3
Pt. 3
Zapp was an underground group. Ditto for Bootsy Collins. Because they are well known in a particular social context (the underground) some cats are whining that they are NOT 'Unsung'. None of these cats have gotten the accolades they deserve. They have gotten PROPS (via shout-outs and being sampled) but truthfully, they are far from lauded outside their core circle.
Remember, Gold status is 500,000 units. In a country of over 200 million that's a drop in the bucket.
MsMerising 2 years ago
MsMerising.. I didn't think you were upset at all (smile). I understand friendly debate when I see it. I think I (like many) may have been confused by TV One's purpose of "Unsung". Teena's story should be heard. I just didnt' see her as being "Unsung" since she did sell a lot of records in the AA community and we love her. I think she should write a book or a movie told about her life. She's awesome. I just didn't think she was Unsung. JMO (Shirley Brown, Millie Jackson need an Unsung too). LOL
thejukejoint 2 years ago
Again, Teena has only gone gold three times in her life...that's not exactly 'selling' alot of records (most of her money would be accumulated from owning her publishing as well as touring, actually).
I lobby she's 'Unsung'. And yes, I stand behind you on Millie Jackson. Millie would be FUN to hear speak. I will never forget seeing a video of her performing as a teen ('Live & Uncensored' is still a personal fav :P)
MsMerising 2 years ago
Thanks! Great chatting with you. I'm sure it will be a great show. Blessings.. from "The Juke Joint".
thejukejoint 2 years ago
I'd love to see an Unsung story on Miss Millie Jackson.
Alyn08 2 years ago
@thejukejoint HELL YES SHE IS UNSUNG!!! SHE WAS LONG OVERDUE THIS AND SO MUCH MORE!!
EternalTDG 1 year ago
@thejukejoint the Mary Jane Girls where kinda cool , for about a minute. Teena was an artist with a 30+ history of creating music that really touched people deeply, and aside from the support of her loyal fan base, never fully recieved the recognition, or accolades that she deserved. Long live the music of Teena Marie, and may she rest in peace.
souporsonic 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
lmao ya'll crazy...I can't wait to watch
LaLaLibra1 2 years ago
lmao ya'll crazy...I can't wait to see this...go TV1
LaLaLibra1 2 years ago
Me too. They did Phyllis, Minnie now Teena...I'm a happy camper with TVOne indeed :D
MsMerising 2 years ago 2
Cocaine`s a hell of a drug
solidnadz 2 years ago 10
lol
robertsnowden19 2 years ago
Shaking glass in your face...Cold BLOODEEEEEEED
jjorif 2 years ago 4
damn, what do you expect? Its Rick James, bitch!!!
Hizzle10 2 years ago 4