Eddie Murphy's Raw stands as a landmark comedy special that showcases a 27-year-old superstar at the height of his powers, wearing his iconic leather outfit at Madison Square Garden. The 1987 concert film combines brilliant impressions, storytelling, and controversial material that still resonates and provokes discussion decades later.
• Haji Outlaw shares his experience watching Raw at age 9 despite his mother's objections
• Raw vs. Delirious debate reveals how Raw captured Murphy at his fame peak
• Eddie Murphy's iconic leather outfit became untouchable for future comedians
• Discussion of how Raw initially received an X-rating requiring extensive negotiations
• Raw remains the 5th highest-grossing concert film of all time
• Examination of Eddie's crossover appeal and impact on Black cinema
• Critics like Roger Ebert had mixed reactions despite the special's massive success
• The scripted opening featuring Samuel L. Jackson and future stars was groundbreaking
• Eddie Murphy's impressions of Bill Cosby and Richard Pryor stand as comedy classics
• Murphy retired from stand-up shortly after Raw as his fame made it difficult to test material
Support Haji Outlaw's upcoming stand-up special "Spangled" and check out his music with Boldy James and the Cool Kids dropping this summer.
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