Subgenre: Neo-Soul
Jilly from Philly often borrows from the past to influence her music. She bravely mixes a number of genres (jazz, hip-hop and sometimes classical) to create a vibrant and unique sound all onto its on. Labeled a true artist, Scott leaves her soul on stage during passionate performances. Loud, bold and thought provoking are proud traits of this artist.
Subgenre: Neo-Soul
Badu is a masterful storyteller with roots in traditional R&B and funk with a nod toward the future. Her music is not only groove worthy, it’s a personal reflection of the joys, ups and down of life.
Subgenre: Traditional R&B
Considered the blueprint from many of today’s artists, Anita Baker’s unique alto voice is enviable by many. With hits like “Sweet Love” and “Angel,” baker gets to the heart of the matter with ease.
Subgenre: Traditional R&B
Deep, raspy and rich can only describe Toni Braxton’s voice. The eldest Braxton has built a career on creating feel-good, revenge worthy, love me all-night ballads.
Subgenre: Contemporary R&B
Fantasia’s beautiful voice against the sometimes rough beats create a unique contrast that attracts many. The singer’s latest album, Side Effects of You, is perhaps the best example of that juxtaposition. It’s nothing but candy for the ears.
Subgenre: Contemporary R&B
Tamar’s bold and gusty music, as showcased on Love & War (nominated for three Grammys), is obviously infectious. The mix of club tracks, emotional ballads and feel-good tunes was a winner for R&B. This vocal diva builds upon her predecessors including her famous sister, Toni Braxton, with ease.
Subgenre: Retro Soul
Operating with a big sounding band and even bigger vocals and stage presence, Sharon Jones of Sharon Jones and The Dap Kings is a force to reckon with. Together, they bring the best of ’60s and ’70s to 2014—funk and all!
Subgenre: Retro Soul
Trained under Prince’s wing, Liv Warfield is in a league of her own. This alternative R&B singer thrives off the energy of a live audience.
Subgenre: Futuristic R&B
Janelle Monae has the makings of a traditional R&B artist with a science-fiction twist. If you need more proof, just ask Monae’s alter-ego Cindi Mayweather who’s from the year 2719.
Subgenre: Eclectic R&B
Solange is everything you wanted to be in your 20s—stylish, funky and downtown chic. There’s no leaf left unturned or emotion left unchecked in her lyrics. And as for her music, she’s successfully borrowed ideas from all genres.
Subgenre: Pop ‘n B
Emeli Sandé is the newest singing sensation from the U.K. Her debut album, Our Version of Events, is a beautiful marriage of melodic pop tunes and soul stirring lyrics associated with R&B.
Subgenre: Pop n’ B
The music industry’s current pop princess, Rihanna, has masterfully merged several genres into her growing body of work. She’s spawned an impressive number of chart toppers, 13 to be exact. And she’s showing no signs of slowing down. During her career, she’s constantly evolving and reinventing her image and sound.
