Ep 1. The Pied Piper of R&B

Surviving R. Kelly is a documentary series that explores the life of R. Kelly – the controversial R&B singer accused of sexual abuse, misconduct and other heinous crimes. The first episode of the show is titled ‘The Pied Piper of R&B’ and it delves into R. Kelly’s early years and his rise to fame.

The episode starts by introducing the viewers to R. Kelly’s childhood. The singer grew up in the southside of Chicago and his family struggled financially. His mother was a singer and his father was absent from his life. The viewers are given an insight into the environment in which R. Kelly grew up – a neighbourhood beset with poverty and crime. Despite his rough surroundings, R. Kelly found solace in music and was determined to make a career in the music industry.

The episode then goes on to detail R. Kelly’s early days in the music industry. He was discovered by a Chicago record producer who saw his potential and helped him get his first record deal. R. Kelly quickly made a name for himself in the music scene with his smooth vocals and unique style of music. However, it wasn’t until he wrote and produced the hit song ‘You Are Not Alone’ for Michael Jackson that he became a household name.

As R. Kelly’s fame grew, so did his reputation as a ladies’ man. The show explores the singer’s relationships with various women throughout his career including Aaliyah, whom he secretly married when she was only 15 years old. The episode also delves into the allegations of sexual abuse that have followed R. Kelly throughout his career.

The documentary includes interviews with former employees, music industry insiders and journalists who have investigated R. Kelly’s alleged misconduct. The interviews shed light on the singer’s predatory behaviour and the efforts made to protect him by those around him including his record label, Jive Records.

The episode also touches on the infamous sex tape scandal that landed R. Kelly in court. The tape allegedly showed the singer engaging in sexual acts with a teenage girl. R. Kelly denied any wrongdoing but was eventually charged with 21 counts of child pornography. However, he was acquitted in 2008.

Surviving R. Kelly is a gripping and insightful documentary series that sheds light on the controversial life of R. Kelly. The first episode sets the stage for what is to come in the show – a disturbing and chilling portrayal of a man who is alleged to have committed some of the most heinous crimes imaginable. The first episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the R. Kelly scandal and those concerned with the issue of sexual abuse.