Genre Definition
What is R&B music?
R&B is a music genre that originated 1940s--present. USA, 1940s.
Origin of R&B
USA, 1940s. Jerry Wexler coined the term rhythm and blues in 1948 as a Billboard chart category. Combined blues, gospel, and jazz into an electric, dance-oriented form. Motown refined it into polished pop in the 1960s. Contemporary R&B absorbed hip-hop production aesthetics in the 1990s.
Era: 1940s--present
Defining sound of R&B
Groove-centred production with emphasis on vocals. Lush harmonies, gospel-influenced melisma, expressive dynamics. Modern production uses 808 drums, synthesizer pads, and trap-influenced hi-hats at 60-90 BPM. Lyrical themes skew romantic, emotional, sensual.
Essential R&B albums
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Pioneers of R&B
- Ray Charles
- Sam Cooke
- James Brown
- Stevie Wonder
- Marvin Gaye
Key R&B artists
Related genres
Frequently asked questions about R&B
- When did R&B start?
- R&B originated 1940s--present. USA, 1940s.
- Who invented R&B?
- R&B was pioneered by Ray Charles, Sam Cooke, James Brown, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye. USA, 1940s. Jerry Wexler coined the term rhythm and blues in 1948 as a Billboard chart category. Combined blues, gospel, and jazz into an electric, dance-oriented form. Motown refined it into polished pop in the 1960s. Contemporary R&B absorbed hip-hop production aesthetics in the 1990s.
- Is R&B still popular?
- R&B continues to be listened to and has influenced countless artists since its origins. Key contemporary artists in the genre include Beyonce, Frank Ocean, SZA, The Weeknd.
- What does R&B sound like?
- Groove-centred production with emphasis on vocals. Lush harmonies, gospel-influenced melisma, expressive dynamics. Modern production uses 808 drums, synthesizer pads, and trap-influenced hi-hats at 60-90 BPM. Lyrical themes skew romantic, emotional, sensual.
- What is the difference between R&B and soul?
- R&B and soul are related genres that share some characteristics but differ in origin, instrumentation, and production approach. See the soul definition page for a full comparison.
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