With the month of February celebrated in the U.S. as Black History Month, it would be an injustice to not mention one of the most prolific legends in Hip-hop history! I’m speaking of the rapper from Flatbush Brooklyn, New York; Special Ed. Some may be too young to speak on his relevance, but for us seasoned hip-hop heads, Special Ed shook the Industry in an amazing way! Smooth, Silky and Amazing are just three adjective that can be used to encompass his worth.
Born Edward Archer, Special Ed was shot out of an cannon! Never before had we seen a 17-year old youngster with the gift of gab. And he knew it! Special Ed wasn’t flashy, however; you knew instantly from his word play, he was a beast! His debut album spurned three classics that if released today, would chart. “I Got It Made,” “I’m the Magnificent”, and “Think About It”, made Special Ed an instant star and well respected M.C. in New York and beyond.
The album, ‘Youngest in Charge’ not only changed history, but made an impact on young African Americans on a global level. I for one, a young man in school with little confidence, was instantly inspired by Special Ed. There was something different about Special Ed that drew the attention of those who felt outcast by the norms. The song, “I Got It Made” is 3:32 seconds of Special Ed telling a tale of life in 3-D; however, the song resonates on the premise of hope! The song is a instant reminder of what could be, should be, and will be! And to be honest, that is Special Ed!
The one aspect that gets overshadowed was Special Ed’s songwriting. There was no one better! Special Ed had a way with not only his lyrics, but delivery. Bars on bars; Special Ed challenged listeners to think and imagine before the likes of Lil Wayne and Drake. Special Ed was a statesman. Thinking back, I felt compelled and complexed by how a 17 year old high schooler could dig up scenarios that seemed out of reach. But, somehow, Special Ed was able to throw ink upon the canvas! Who does that? That’s Black Excellence, all day long. There are songs that can be sampled successfully, however, “I Got It Made,” isn’t one of them! Like fine wine, smell the cork and savor~
Today, Special Ed is an advocate for the culture. The father of three children, Special Ed continues to be involved in Hip-hop and the movement. With over 13+ million views, its evident that “I Got It Made”, is still relevant. ProMediaBank salutes Special Ed and his many achievement that will live forever in the halls of greatness!!
I need to to thank you for this good read!! I absolutely enjoyed every bit of it. I have you book marked to look at new things you post…