Long before it was a hit TV sitcom, Arrested Development was a socially conscious, soul, blues and hip-hop group of the '80s that moved gansta rap beyond their previously negative stereotypes. The group was founded by Milwaukee native Speech, born Todd Thomas, who after relocating to Georgia to attend the Art Institute of Atlanta, met fellow student Tim Barnwell, and began the foundations for this rap quartet.Speech's lyrics were rootsy, positive and connected with a spiritual world that hoped to broaden the perspectives of their fans. Describing their sound as "life music," Arrested Development is unlike other rap groups in that they respect women and promote family, spirituality and male responsibility. The group was the first of African-American artists to donate money to Nelson Mandela and the ANC, a program that helps those living in South Africa.Their debut album, 3 years, 5 months and 2 Days in the Life of...is titled after the length of time it took the group to gain a recording contract. Their hit single "Tennessee" reached The Top Ten, won an MTV music award for best rap single in 1992 and redefines the term "family tree." After their single "Mr. Wendal," which humanizes the homeless, the group donated half of the proceeds to the National Coalition for the Homeless. Arrested Development worked with director Spike Lee for his blockbuster hit X, and connected with other leaders in their areas of interest, including Cornel West, Nation of Islam and the Black Panthers.After their sophomore effort Zingalamaduni, Arrested Development parted ways. Speech worked on his solo career, debuting with 1996's self titled LP, and has over the years created three more albums with TVT. In 2006 the group reunited and released Since the Last Time in Japan, making its US debut a year later. The group is constantly touring the world and continues to spread their unique ideals through their work in the music industry.
