R&B, or rhythm and blues, has been home to many talented singers who have left a lasting impact on music. From the smooth vocals of Marvin Gaye and Luther Vandross to the powerhouse voices of Whitney Houston and Beyoncé, R&B singers have captivated audiences with their soulful performances and heartfelt lyrics. These artists use their voices to express emotions and tell stories, creating music that resonates with listeners on a deep level. Whether singing about love, heartbreak, or social issues, R&B singers have a unique ability to connect with audiences and evoke powerful emotions.
1. Marvin Gaye
Marvin Gaye, born Marvin Pentz Gay Jr. on April 2, 1939, in Washington, D.C., was a legendary American singer, songwriter, and record producer. Renowned for his smooth, soulful voice and socially conscious lyrics, Gaye became one of the most influential artists in the history of popular music.
Gaye’s career began in the 1960s with Motown Records, where he scored numerous hits, including “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)” and “I Heard It Through the Grapevine.” However, it was his collaboration with songwriter-producer Norman Whitfield that produced some of his most iconic work.
In the 1970s, Gaye released a series of groundbreaking albums, including “What’s Going On” (1971), which addressed social and political issues such as poverty, racism, and the Vietnam War. The album’s title track became an anthem for the civil rights movement and is considered one of the greatest songs of all time.
Gaye continued to push musical boundaries with albums like “Let’s Get It On” (1973) and “I Want You” (1976), exploring themes of sensuality and romance. His innovative blend of soul, funk, and R&B influenced generations of artists and helped shape the sound of contemporary music.
Tragically, Gaye’s life was cut short when he was shot and killed by his father on April 1, 1984, the day before his 45th birthday. Despite his untimely death, Gaye’s music remains timeless, and his legacy as a pioneering artist and cultural icon continues to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.
2. Aretha Franklin
Aretha Franklin, born on March 25, 1942, in Memphis, Tennessee, was a legendary American singer, songwriter, and pianist, often referred to as the “Queen of Soul.” Renowned for her powerful voice, emotive delivery, and unparalleled talent, Franklin became one of the most celebrated artists in music history.
Franklin rose to fame in the 1960s with a string of hits for Atlantic Records, including “Respect,” “Chain of Fools,” and “Think.” With her distinctive voice and gospel-influenced style, she became an icon of the civil rights movement and a symbol of female empowerment.
Throughout her career, Franklin earned numerous accolades, including 18 Grammy Awards, making her one of the most awarded artists in Grammy history. She was also the first woman to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987.
Franklin’s impact on popular music is immeasurable, and her influence extends far beyond the realm of soul and R&B. Her iconic songs have inspired generations of artists and continue to resonate with audiences around the world.
Tragically, Franklin passed away on August 16, 2018, at the age of 76, but her legacy as one of the greatest voices of all time remains immortal. Her music will forever be cherished as a testament to her talent, passion, and enduring spirit.
3. Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder, born Stevland Hardaway Judkins in 1950, is an American singer, songwriter, musician, and record producer known for his exceptional talent, creative genius, and profound impact on the music industry. Blind from infancy, Wonder showed early musical talent and signed with Motown’s Tamla label at the age of 11. His first hit, “Fingertips Pt. 2,” came when he was just 13 years old.
Wonder’s music transcends genres, blending soul, funk, R&B, pop, and jazz, and he is known for his innovative use of technology and instruments. His albums from the 1970s, including “Talking Book,” “Innervisions,” and “Songs in the Key of Life,” are considered classics, featuring hits like “Superstition,” “Higher Ground,” and “Isn’t She Lovely.”
Apart from his musical achievements, Stevie Wonder is also a prominent social activist, advocating for civil rights, social justice, and disability rights. He has received numerous awards, including 25 Grammy Awards, making him one of the most awarded male solo artists in Grammy history. Wonder’s influence on music and culture is immeasurable, and his music continues to inspire and resonate with audiences around the world.
4. Ray Charles
Ray Charles, born Ray Charles Robinson in 1930, was an American singer, songwriter, musician, and composer known for his pioneering contributions to soul music and his innovative blending of rhythm and blues, gospel, and jazz. Blind from the age of seven, Charles overcame adversity to become one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century.
Charles’ music crossed racial and genre boundaries, appealing to audiences of all backgrounds. Hits like “What’d I Say,” “Georgia on My Mind,” and “I Can’t Stop Loving You” showcased his unique voice, emotional depth, and distinctive piano playing. Charles’ talent and innovation earned him the nickname “The Genius” and solidified his legacy as a pioneer of soul music.
In addition to his musical achievements, Charles was a civil rights activist, using his platform to support the movement for racial equality. He received numerous awards throughout his career, including multiple Grammy Awards and a Presidential Medal of Freedom. Ray Charles’ impact on music and culture is profound, and his music continues to inspire artists and audiences worldwide.
5. Sam Cooke
Sam Cooke, born Samuel Cook on January 22, 1931, in Clarksdale, Mississippi, was a pioneering American singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur. Known for his smooth, velvety voice and charismatic stage presence, Cooke became one of the most influential figures in the history of soul music.
Cooke rose to fame in the 1950s as a member of the gospel group The Soul Stirrers, where he gained recognition for his powerful vocals and innovative style. In the late 1950s, he embarked on a solo career and achieved widespread success with hits like “You Send Me,” “Wonderful World,” and “Chain Gang.”
Cooke’s music transcended genres, blending elements of gospel, R&B, pop, and soul, and his soulful delivery and heartfelt lyrics resonated with audiences of all backgrounds. He was also a trailblazer in the music industry, establishing his own record label, SAR Records, and advocating for artists’ rights and ownership of their music.
Tragically, Cooke’s life was cut short when he was shot and killed under controversial circumstances on December 11, 1964, at the age of 33. Despite his untimely death, Cooke’s music continues to inspire and influence generations of artists, and his legacy as a pioneering soul singer and cultural icon remains unparalleled.
6. Otis Redding
Otis Redding, born in 1941, was an American singer, songwriter, and record producer known for his powerful voice, emotive delivery, and influential contributions to soul music. Emerging in the 1960s, Redding gained fame for his electrifying live performances and hits like “Try a Little Tenderness,” “Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay,” and “I’ve Been Loving You Too Long.” His raw, passionate singing style and ability to convey deep emotion resonated with audiences and earned him a reputation as one of the greatest soul singers of all time.
Tragically, Redding’s life and career were cut short when he died in a plane crash in 1967 at the age of 26. Despite his untimely death, Redding’s music continues to be celebrated for its timeless quality and profound impact on the world of music. He was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989, and his influence can be heard in the work of countless artists across genres. Otis Redding’s legacy as a soul music icon remains strong, with his songs serving as enduring classics that continue to move and inspire listeners around the world.
7. Al Green
Al Green, born Albert Leornes Greene on April 13, 1946, in Forrest City, Arkansas, is a legendary American singer, songwriter, and record producer. Renowned for his smooth, soulful voice and distinctive falsetto, Green became one of the most iconic figures in the history of soul music.
Green rose to prominence in the 1970s with a string of hits for Hi Records, including “Let’s Stay Together,” “Tired of Being Alone,” and “I’m Still in Love with You.” His romantic ballads and sensual grooves earned him widespread acclaim and commercial success, and he became known as one of the pioneers of the Memphis soul sound.
In addition to his solo career, Green was also a prolific collaborator, working with artists like Willie Mitchell and producer and songwriter Willie Mitchell. He continued to release albums and perform live, earning numerous accolades and honors, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995.
Green’s music has left an indelible mark on popular culture, influencing generations of artists across various genres. His timeless songs and soulful performances continue to captivate audiences around the world, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest soul singers of all time.
8. James Brown
James Brown, born in 1933, was an American singer, songwriter, dancer, musician, and record producer known as the “Godfather of Soul.” Emerging in the mid-1950s, Brown became one of the most influential figures in the history of popular music, with a career that spanned over six decades. Known for his electrifying stage presence and dynamic performances, Brown was a pioneer of funk music and a major influence on the development of soul and hip-hop.
Brown’s music was characterized by its infectious rhythms, powerful vocals, and socially conscious lyrics. Hits like “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag,” “I Got You (I Feel Good),” and “Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud” became anthems of the civil rights movement and solidified his status as a cultural icon. Brown’s innovative musical style and stage presence earned him the nickname “The Hardest Working Man in Show Business” and made him one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.
In addition to his musical achievements, Brown was also known for his philanthropy and activism, supporting various causes and advocating for social change. He received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame. James Brown’s impact on music and culture is immeasurable, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of artists and fans around the world.
9. Prince
Prince, born Prince Rogers Nelson on June 7, 1958, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, was a groundbreaking American singer, songwriter, musician, and producer. Renowned for his innovative music, flamboyant stage presence, and prolific output, Prince became one of the most influential artists in the history of popular music.
Prince rose to fame in the late 1970s with his debut album “For You” (1978) and achieved mainstream success in the 1980s with albums like “Purple Rain” (1984), which spawned hits like “When Doves Cry” and “Purple Rain.” With his distinctive blend of funk, rock, R&B, and pop, Prince captivated audiences with his virtuosic musicianship and boundary-pushing creativity.
Throughout his career, Prince released dozens of albums and singles, earning critical acclaim and numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards and an Academy Award for Best Original Song Score for “Purple Rain.” He was also known for his electrifying live performances, where he showcased his talents as a singer, guitarist, and dancer.
Beyond his musical achievements, Prince was also a trailblazer in the music industry, advocating for artists’ rights and independence. He famously battled with his record label Warner Bros. over creative control and ownership of his music, leading him to change his name to an unpronounceable symbol as a form of protest.
Prince’s untimely death on April 21, 2016, at the age of 57, shocked the world, but his music and legacy continue to inspire and influence generations of artists and fans. His unparalleled talent, fearless creativity, and uncompromising vision have left an indelible mark on popular culture, ensuring that his legend will endure for generations to come.
10. Luther Vandross
Luther Vandross, born in 1951, was an American singer, songwriter, and record producer known for his smooth, soulful voice and romantic ballads. Emerging in the late 1970s, Vandross gained fame for his distinctive voice and impeccable vocal range, earning him comparisons to legends like Nat King Cole and Marvin Gaye. Vandross’ music often explored themes of love, heartache, and relationships, resonating with audiences around the world.
Vandross’ career was marked by critical acclaim and commercial success, with hits like “Here and Now,” “Dance with My Father,” and “Never Too Much” becoming classics. He won numerous awards throughout his career, including eight Grammy Awards, and was known for his dynamic live performances. Vandross’ influence extended beyond music, as he was also a sought-after producer and songwriter, working with artists like Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, and Diana Ross.
Despite facing health challenges later in his career, Vandross continued to record and perform, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest R&B singers of all time. His music continues to be celebrated for its timeless quality and emotional depth, making him a beloved figure in the world of music. Luther Vandross passed away in 2005, but his legacy lives on through his music, which continues to inspire and touch the hearts of fans around the world.
11. Smokey Robinson
Smokey Robinson, born William Robinson Jr. on February 19, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, is a legendary American singer, songwriter, record producer, and former frontman of the iconic Motown group The Miracles. Renowned for his smooth tenor voice, distinctive falsetto, and masterful songwriting, Robinson became one of the most influential figures in the history of popular music.
Robinson’s career with The Miracles began in the late 1950s, and the group achieved widespread success with hits like “Shop Around,” “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me,” and “The Tracks of My Tears.” As the group’s primary songwriter, Robinson penned many of their most enduring classics and helped define the Motown sound.
In addition to his work with The Miracles, Robinson also found success as a solo artist, releasing a string of solo albums and hit singles, including “Cruisin’,” “Being with You,” and “Just to See Her.” His solo career further solidified his status as a soul music icon.
Beyond his contributions as a performer, Robinson also made significant contributions to the music industry as a record executive, serving as vice president of Motown Records and later founding his own record label, Tamla Records.
Robinson’s impact on popular music is immeasurable, and his timeless songs and soulful performances continue to inspire and influence artists across generations. With multiple Grammy Awards, induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and a Presidential Medal of Freedom among his many accolades, Robinson’s legacy as a true icon of soul music is firmly established.
12. Diana Ross
Diana Ross, born in 1944, is an American singer, actress, and record producer who rose to fame as the lead singer of the Supremes, one of the most successful girl groups of all time. Emerging in the 1960s, the Supremes achieved mainstream success with hits like “Where Did Our Love Go,” “Baby Love,” and “Stop! In the Name of Love,” becoming synonymous with the Motown sound and earning them the title of “America’s Sweethearts.”
In the 1970s, Ross launched a successful solo career, producing hits like “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” “Touch Me in the Morning,” and “Upside Down.” Known for her powerful voice, glamorous style, and captivating stage presence, Ross became a global icon and one of the most successful female artists in music history.
In addition to her music career, Ross has also found success as an actress, starring in films like “Lady Sings the Blues,” for which she received an Academy Award nomination, and “The Wiz.” Throughout her career, Ross has received numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and a Kennedy Center Honor. Diana Ross’ influence on music and culture is immeasurable, and her legacy as a trailblazer and pioneer in the music industry continues to inspire generations of artists and fans around the world.
13. Chaka Khan
Chaka Khan, born Yvette Marie Stevens on March 23, 1953, in Chicago, Illinois, is an iconic American singer, songwriter, and musician. Renowned for her powerful voice, dynamic stage presence, and innovative blend of funk, soul, R&B, and disco, Khan became one of the most influential figures in the history of popular music.
Khan rose to fame in the 1970s as the lead vocalist of the funk band Rufus, with hits like “Tell Me Something Good” and “Sweet Thing.” Her electrifying performances and soulful vocals quickly garnered attention and earned her widespread acclaim.
In the 1980s, Khan embarked on a successful solo career, releasing a series of hit albums and singles, including “I Feel for You,” “Ain’t Nobody,” and “Through the Fire.” Her distinctive voice and versatile style allowed her to effortlessly transition between genres, earning her multiple Grammy Awards and cementing her status as a music icon.
Throughout her career, Khan has continued to push musical boundaries and inspire generations of artists with her talent and innovation. With a career spanning over five decades, she remains one of the most beloved and respected figures in the music industry, and her influence on popular music is undeniable.
14. Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston, born in 1963, was an American singer, actress, and model known for her powerful voice, vocal range, and impact on the music industry. Emerging in the 1980s, Houston quickly rose to fame with her self-titled debut album, which featured hits like “Saving All My Love for You” and “How Will I Know.” Throughout her career, Houston released several successful albums, including “Whitney,” “I’m Your Baby Tonight,” and “The Bodyguard Soundtrack,” which featured the iconic hit “I Will Always Love You.”
Houston’s voice was celebrated for its clarity, range, and emotion, earning her the nickname “The Voice” and numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards. Despite her success, Houston faced personal struggles with substance abuse, which affected her career and personal life.
Houston’s impact on the music industry is undeniable, as she is one of the best-selling music artists of all time, with over 200 million records sold worldwide. Her influence can be heard in the work of countless artists across genres, and her music continues to inspire and resonate with audiences around the world. Whitney Houston passed away in 2012, but her legacy as one of the greatest voices in music history lives on through her timeless music.
15. Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson, born in 1958, was an American singer, songwriter, dancer, and entertainer known as the “King of Pop.” Emerging as a child star with the Jackson 5, Michael quickly became a global phenomenon with his solo career in the 1980s. His album “Thriller” is the best-selling album of all time, with hits like “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” and the title track “Thriller” becoming iconic songs that defined a generation.
Michael Jackson’s influence extended beyond music, as he was also known for his innovative dance moves, including the “Moonwalk,” and his groundbreaking music videos, such as “Thriller” and “Black or White,” which set new standards for the medium. Jackson’s music and performances were characterized by their energy, charisma, and showmanship, earning him a reputation as one of the greatest entertainers in history.
Despite his immense success, Jackson faced personal and legal challenges throughout his life, including allegations of child sexual abuse. Despite these controversies, Michael Jackson’s impact on music and popular culture is undeniable, and his legacy continues to inspire and influence artists around the world. Michael Jackson passed away in 2009, but his music and influence live on, ensuring that the “King of Pop” will always be remembered as a legend in the music industry.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
