R&B (Rhythm and Blues) singers are artists who specialize in performing and recording music within the R&B genre. Originating in African-American communities in the 1940s, R&B music combines elements of jazz, blues, gospel, and soul, creating a rich and soulful sound that is characterized by rhythmic grooves, emotive vocals, and heartfelt lyrics.
R&B singers are known for their powerful and expressive voices, capable of conveying a wide range of emotions. They bring soul and passion to their performances, often using melismatic vocal techniques and showcasing their vocal agility and control.
R&B singers often delve into themes of love, relationships, heartbreak, and personal experiences. Their lyrics can be introspective, introspective, and introspective, drawing from personal experiences or social commentary. R&B music is known for its ability to evoke deep emotions, making it a soundtrack for both joyous and melancholic moments.
Throughout the history of R&B, legendary singers like Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Whitney Houston, and Beyoncé have made significant contributions to the genre. Their iconic voices and timeless hits have set the standard for R&B singers, inspiring generations of artists to follow.
Contemporary R&B singers continue to push the boundaries of the genre, incorporating elements of hip-hop, electronic music, and pop to create fresh and innovative sounds. Artists such as Rihanna, Bruno Mars, The Weeknd, and Alicia Keys have achieved international success, showcasing their vocal prowess, versatility, and creative vision.
R&B singers are cultural influencers, shaping the landscape of popular music and influencing a wide range of artists and genres. Their music serves as a form of self-expression, a reflection of personal journeys, and a means to connect with listeners on a deep and emotional level.
R&B singers continue to evolve the genre, keeping its rich traditions alive while embracing new sonic possibilities. Their contributions to the music industry, through their artistry and authenticity, ensure that R&B remains a vibrant and influential genre for years to come.
1. “Michael Jackson”
Michael Jackson remains an iconic R&B figure even years after his untimely death. His ability to blend genres with perfection and his unmatched dance moves set him apart from any of his contemporaries. As a songwriter, he has contributed pieces that are still cherished today, making it impossible to exclude him from any list of the greatest R&B singers of all time.
His record-breaking albums 'Thriller' and 'Off the Wall' earned him accolades and established him as a pop culture phenomenon. His philanthropic work also demonstrated his kindness and compassion. Despite controversies surrounding his personal life, Michael’s music continues to inspire many across the world, ensuring that he will always be remembered as a true legend in the history of modern music.
Fun Fact: Michael Jackson was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice – once as a solo artist and again as part of The Jackson 5.
Stevie Wonder may be blind, but his music has given us all a brand new vision of soul.
2. “Stevie Wonder”
This legendary musician, known for his soulful voice and poetic lyrics, has rightfully earned a prominent place among the top R&B singers of all time. With a career spanning five decades, Stevie Wonder's unique sound blends elements of R&B, funk, and pop to create a style that is instantly recognizable. His albums "Talking Book" and "Innervisions" are considered some of the greatest R&B albums ever made.
Apart from his incredible talent as a singer-songwriter, Stevie Wonder is also an accomplished multi-instrumentalist who can play piano, synthesizer, harmonica, and drums with equal ease. His ability to use music to convey powerful messages about social justice and political issues has made him an icon for many generations.
Pro Tip: To truly appreciate Stevie Wonder's music, try listening to his albums in chronological order to witness his artistic evolution over time.
Smokey Robinson may be known as the 'King of Motown', but let's be real, he's also the king of making us shed a single tear with his soulful R&B ballads.
3. “Smokey Robinson”
As one of the greatest R&B singers of all time, Smokey Robinson has left a remarkable legacy in the music industry. With his soulful voice and smooth melodies, he has captivated audiences worldwide and influenced generations of artists to come. Robinson rose to fame as a lead singer for the Motown group The Miracles, but later went on to pursue a successful solo career. His hits such as "Tears of a Clown" and "Cruisin'" still remain timeless classics today.
Robinson's artistic talents extend beyond singing- he is also an accomplished songwriter and producer, having written many successful songs for himself as well as other artists. He wrote hits such as "My Guy" for Mary Wells, and "The Way You Do The Things You Do" for The Temptations. At age 81, Robinson continues to be active in the industry, touring and collaborating with younger musicians.
A lesser-known fact about Smokey Robinson is that he was once roommates with fellow Motown legend Marvin Gaye. During their time living together, they developed a close friendship and often worked on music together late into the night. Their bond continued until Gaye's untimely death, which left Robinson devastated.
Smokey Robinson's influence on R&B cannot be overstated – his contributions have paved the way for countless artists who have followed in his footsteps. His incredible talent as both a performer and songwriter make him not only one of the best R&B singers of all time but also one of the most respected figures in popular music history.
Ray Charles – because even though he couldn't see, he sure knew how to make us feel the rhythm and blues.
4. “Ray Charles”
Ray Charles, the legendary R&B singer, has been an inspiration to many. His soulful voice and unique piano playing style set him apart from his contemporaries. With hits such as "Georgia on My Mind" and "Hit the Road Jack," Ray Charles's music remains timeless and impactful even today.
Beyond his remarkable musical career, Ray Charles was also a trailblazer in many ways. He broke down racial barriers in the music industry and paved the way for future generations of African American musicians. His influence can be felt across genres, from gospel to rock and roll.
It is interesting to note that despite being blind from a young age, Ray Charles did not let his disability limit him. In fact, he used it as a source of strength and inspiration for his music.
In an interview with Rolling Stone magazine, Ray Charles once said, "I never wanted to be famous. I just wanted to be great." And great he was indeed – his impact on music continues to be felt to this day.
Aretha Franklin could make singing the phone book sound like a soulful masterpiece.
5. “Aretha Franklin”
Aretha Franklin, considered to be the "Queen of Soul" and one of the best R&B singers of all time, had a powerful voice that embodied soulful delivery. Her music was rooted in gospel and featured themes of love, heartbreak, women's empowerment, and civil rights. Known for hits such as "Respect", "Chain of Fools" and "Natural Woman", Franklin's influence can be seen in many modern R&B artists today.
Franklin began her career singing gospel in her father's church before moving into secular music with her debut album "Aretha: With The Ray Bryant Combo". She went on to record multiple albums that charted high on the Billboard charts and won numerous Grammy Awards throughout her career. Her performance at MLK Jr.'s funeral solidified her place as a prominent civil rights advocate.
One unique detail about Franklin is that she was the first woman to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Additionally, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005.
Pro Tip: Take inspiration from Aretha Franklin's empowering lyrics to uplift yourself during tough times.
James Brown may be the Godfather of Soul, but he's also the father of hype-man antics and gravity-defying hair.
6. “James Brown”
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One of the most influential R&B singers of all time is renowned for his unique vocal style and energetic stage performances. This artist, known for hits such as "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag" and "I Got You (I Feel Good)", revolutionized the genre with his soulful sound and dynamic presence. Through his powerful music, he served as a voice for change during the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s.
In addition to his undeniable impact on music, this artist was also a talented songwriter, dancer, and bandleader. He was often referred to as the "Godfather of Soul" due to his significant contributions to funk music and his influence on subsequent R&B performers throughout the decades. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians seeking to blend heart and soul into their artistry.
With an illustrious career spanning over five decades that has left a lasting impact on both music and culture, it's no wonder that this artist remains one of the most celebrated R&B singers of all time.
Marvin Gaye's voice could make a stone statue shed a tear, but his love life was a mess…sounds like a hit R&B song to me.
7. “Marvin Gaye”
Marvin Gaye, the peerless soul artist, is celebrated as the seventh-best R&B singer of all time. His exceptional vocal range and complex lyrics garnered him multiple accolades, including two Grammy awards. Gaye's soulful melodies and ability to address social themes with nuance and sensitivity made him an icon in the music industry during his time.
Gaye’s seminal album, “What’s Going On,” marked a new level of creative exploration for him. The album was a game-changer and allowed Gaye to explore black identity, poverty, police brutality, and war through his music.
This influential musician met a tragic end in 1984 when he was shot dead by his father at the age of 44. However, Gaye’s contribution to soul music remains unmatched; it's no wonder that he continues to influence artists decades after his death.
Pro Tip: To fully appreciate Marvin Gaye's craft as one of the greatest R&B singers of all time, listen closely to his iconic albums and pay attention to how he explores deep introspection with his voice and lyrics.
Prince may have had a short name, but his hits had a long-lasting impact on R&B music.
8. “Prince”
This musical legend's persona was as enigmatic as his talent. Known for his vibrant style, unique sound, and equally dynamic performances, he left an indelible mark on R&B and influenced generations of artists who followed in his footsteps. His work redefined the sound of the genre and transcended traditional boundaries with ease. The artist was truly a force to be reckoned with, leaving an unmistakable legacy that continues to inspire and captivate fans worldwide.
Whitney Houston may have gone, but her voice will always live on as a reminder that angels can sing R&B too.
9. “Whitney Houston”
Whitney Houston, one of the most iconic and influential R&B singers of all time, holds a special place in music lovers' hearts. Houston's strikingly powerful vocals and soulful performances have won millions of fans worldwide. Her albums, including Whitney Houston (1985) and The Bodyguard (1992), earned numerous awards and accolades. She was also a successful actress, starring in films such as The Preacher's Wife (1996). Despite her tragic death in 2012, her legacy lives on through her timeless music.
Houston's success was due to her unique ability to connect with audiences through her dynamic range and emotive delivery. She inspired countless artists with her powerful voice and range, which remains unmatched to this day. Many consider her the "Queen of Pop/R&B" for good reason: she dominated charts across genres with hits like "I Will Always Love You" and "How Will I Know". Although many artists have come after her, none have managed to fully match or surpass the level of talent that she possessed.
One cannot underestimate the profound impact Whitney had on popular culture at large. She paved the way for modern-day pop stars who continue to draw inspiration from her artistry today. However, few can rival her vocal mastery or innate sense of melody. For those who were lucky enough to see or work with Whitney firsthand, she will forever be remembered as a true legend who left an indelible mark on music history.
Whitney Houston's career spanned over 30 years before she passed away at just 48 years old due to tragic circumstances beyond anyone's control. Her impact on the world went far beyond music; she was admired by millions for how passionate, driven and compassionate individual that attracted many people into becoming devout followers of hers.
Al Green's voice is so smooth, it could convince you to do anything – even go vegan and give up bacon.
10. “Al Green”
One of the most influential and iconic R&B singers to date is the soulful crooner who goes by the name of Al Green. Over his illustrious career, he has produced a plethora of timeless classics that have become a staple in not only R&B, but music in general. His silky smooth vocals paired with his raw, emotionally-driven performances have captured the hearts of millions around the world.
Green's ability to connect with his audience on a personal level through his music is unparalleled. His discography boasts an extensive range of love songs that tug at the heartstrings and speak to experiences that are universally relatable. One cannot help but feel transported into another era when listening to tracks such as "Let's Stay Together" or "I'm Still In Love With You."
What sets Al Green apart from other R&B artists is his unique fusion of gospel and secular music. He seamlessly blends together these seemingly disparate genres to create a sound that is both powerful and moving. This distinctive style has earned him numerous awards throughout his career, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
A true testament to Green's impact on music history can be seen in the fact that many contemporary artists cite him as an influence in their own works. From Justin Timberlake to Adele, there seems to be hardly any musician who hasn't been touched by Green's incredible talent.
Bill Withers' voice is like a warm hug from a friend you haven't seen in ages, if that friend happened to have the vocal range of an angel.
11. “Bill Withers”
The music industry has been dominated by various R&B singers over the years, each leaving an unforgettable mark on listeners. One such singer is the incomparable Bill Withers. His soulful voice and poetic lyrics have touched the hearts of millions around the world for decades.
Withers launched his career with his debut album "Just As I Am," which included his timeless hit single "Ain’t No Sunshine." He went on to release other chart-toppers like "Lean on Me" and "Lovely Day." Throughout his musical journey, he created a unique blend of R&B, funk, and soul that continues to captivate audiences today.
In addition to his immense talent as a musician, Withers lived an inspiring life outside of music. He served in the U.S. Navy and worked as an aircraft mechanic before pursuing a career in music. Despite facing obstacles early on in his career, including a speech impediment and rejection from record labels, he persevered and became one of the most successful R&B artists of all time.
As fans of R&B music know, Bill Withers' contributions cannot be overstated. His distinct sound and lyrical prowess set him apart from others in the genre. If you haven't already had the pleasure of experiencing his music, it's time to join the millions who have been moved by his artistry. Don't miss out on listening to one of the greatest R&B singers of all time – Bill Withers.
Lionel Richie may have said 'Hello' but my ears say 'More, please!'
12. “Lionel Richie”
Lionel Richie is a legendary singer and songwriter who is known for his soulful and melodic R&B music. With a career spanning several decades, Lionel has captivated audiences around the world with his smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics. He has sold over 100 million records, won multiple Grammy Awards and has even been inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Lionel Richie’s unique ability to blend pop, funk, soul, and R&B has made him one of the most influential artists of all time.
Richie’s solo career began after he left the Commodores in 1982. However, he did not abandon his roots entirely as evidenced by the success of his debut album “Lionel Richie.” The album earned him three top 10 singles: “Truly,” “You Are,” and “My Love.” In addition to being a successful solo artist, Lionel collaborated with many other musicians including Michael Jackson on “We Are The World” and Diana Ross on “Endless Love”.
Interestingly, before becoming a musician, Lionel Richie had originally intended to become a priest. However, after joining a band in college, he realized that music was his true calling. With an impressive track record spanning several decades, there is no doubt that Lionel Richie will continue to be remembered as an iconic figure in R&B music.
Curtis Mayfield's music is so soulful, it's actually a form of therapy. But unlike most therapy sessions, you won't want to leave after an hour.
13. “Curtis Mayfield”
Legendary musician, Curtis Mayfield, was a noted R&B singer and songwriter in the 60s and 70s. Known for his socially conscious lyrics and eclectic sound, his music has stood the test of time. Mayfield's discography includes standout tracks like "Move On Up", "Superfly" and "People Get Ready". His influence can still be heard in modern R&B today. Additionally, Mayfield started his career as a member of The Impressions but later pursued a solo career which lasted nearly three decades.
Sadly, Luther Vandross is no longer with us, but his music will live on forever like a never-ending love ballad.
14. “Luther Vandross”
Luther Vandross, the 14th spot holder on the list of '15 Best R&B Singers of All Time', was not just a celebrated American singer, songwriter and record producer, but also an exceptional composer and vocal arranger. He started his musical journey as a backup vocalist before venturing out as a solo artist in the early 80s. His music resonated with fans around the world, with chart-topping hits like 'Never Too Much' and 'Dance With My Father'. His discography is replete with soulful melodies that will transcend time.
As an artist, Vandross was known for his immense dedication and artistry – he would often spend restless hours perfecting each song's melody and lyrics. He was also widely regarded for infusing his personal life experiences into his music – the songs were often autobiographical. Vandross amassed numerous accolades throughout his career, including eight Grammy Awards and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
One of Vandross' most significant contributions to R&B emerged when he redefined the concept of ballads. By taking a different approach to love songs and blending it with pop sounds, he created a new sub-genre which continues to influence singers today.
In one story that epitomizes his love for humanity, in 2003, after gaining consciousness from a two-month-long coma triggered by stroke-induced complications during surgery, instead of wallowing in self-pity at losing the ability to walk or speak, Luther spent his remaining years lobbying awareness for diabetes that led to him partnering with American Diabetes Association (ADA) creating awareness about the same.
R.Kelly may have questionable personal choices, but there's no denying his ability to hit those high notes and make you forget about the scandals – at least for a little while.
15. “R. Kelly”
One of the most influential R&B singers to ever grace the music scene is widely recognized and referred to as "R. Kelly," earning a spot on our list of the 15 Best R&B Singers of All Time. His career spans over 30 years, with hit after hit that continues to resonate with listeners worldwide.
Kelly's ability to convey raw emotion through his smooth vocals is unmatched, and his versatility as a songwriter and producer has allowed him to create timeless classics that remain popular today. He has sold over 100 million records worldwide, earning numerous awards and accolades along the way.
His past legal troubles have sparked controversy, but many still appreciate his contribution to the world of R&B music. From soulful ballads to upbeat anthems, Kelly has left an indelible mark on the genre that cannot be ignored.
It is important to acknowledge the impact that R. Kelly has had on R&B music, despite personal controversies he faced in his life. Listening to his music from a purely musical standpoint can provide insight into why he landed on this definitive list of best R&B singers of all time. Don't miss out on experiencing one of the greatest talents in the 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.
