15 Best R&B Singers of All Time

R&B singers are the soulful storytellers of our time, using their remarkable voices to convey a wide range of emotions and experiences. Rooted in rhythm and blues traditions, these artists infuse their music with passion, vulnerability, and a deep sense of groove. Their songs explore themes of love, heartbreak, empowerment, and social commentary, resonating with audiences on a profound level.

What sets R&B singers apart is their ability to deliver vocals with unmatched skill and emotion. They possess a unique ability to convey the complexities of human relationships, often blurring the lines between pain and pleasure, vulnerability and strength. Their melodic sensibilities, paired with soul-stirring lyrics, create an intimate connection that transcends musical genres.

R&B’s influence can be heard across a wide spectrum of music, from gospel to funk, jazz to hip-hop. This versatility allows R&B singers to adapt and innovate, pushing the boundaries of the genre while staying true to its soulful roots.

These artists serve as cultural touchstones, reflecting the ever-evolving landscape of love, identity, and society. Through their music, R&B singers provide a soundtrack to life’s most poignant moments, offering solace, empowerment, and a sense of belonging. They are the architects of modern soul, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of listeners worldwide.

1. Aretha Franklin

Aretha Franklin, a renowned figure in the music world, is greatly admired as one of the greatest R&B singers of all time. Her voice, so soulful and powerful, has left an unforgettable impression on the industry and continues to be a source of inspiration for many musicians.

Let's look at some key details about her:

• Birth Name: Aretha Louise Franklin.
• Date of Birth: March 25, 1942.
• Place of Birth: Memphis, Tennessee.
• Genres: R&B, Soul, Gospel.
• Albums: Lady Soul (1968), Young, Gifted and Black (1972), Amazing Grace (1972).

Apart from her remarkable discography and awards, Aretha Franklin was well-known for her ability to add emotion and feeling to every performance. Her versions of songs like "Respect" and "Natural Woman" moved people around the world.

Additionally, Aretha had a major impact outside of music. She was an important supporter of civil rights and used her platform to address social issues.

One intriguing fact is that Aretha Franklin was the first woman to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987, affirming her status as a true legend in the industry.

2. Marvin Gaye

Marvin Gaye, a renowned R&B vocalist, carved his place in music history with his expressive voice and reflective verses. His tunes crossed boundaries, touching the emotions of millions worldwide.

Born on April 2, 1939 in Washington D.C., U.S., Gaye brought forth rhythm and blues and soul to the music industry. He was a multi-instrumentalist, playing the piano, keyboards, drums, and of course, vocals.

He was famed for his activism, fearlessly tackling social issues through his album "What's Going On." The record discussed racial injustice and Vietnam War protests, which challenged the status quo in the music industry.

A memorable event happened when Gaye noticed a fan having a heart attack during a concert. Genuinely concerned, he attended to the patient until medical help arrived. This act of kindness further cemented his devoted fans' admiration for him.

Marvin Gaye's creative legacy carries on motivating the coming generations of musicians. With each note he sang and each word he wrote, he left an unerasable mark on the R&B genre. His influence reaches far beyond awards and accolades – it dwells deep in the collective spirit of not only R&B aficionados but music lovers around the world. Ray Charles, the musical prodigy who set the stage for R&B, proving that even a blind man could see the soul in his music.

3. Ray Charles

Ray Charles, an iconic R&B singer, had a huge impact on the music biz. His soulful voice and creative style changed the genre and empowered future musicians.

The table below shows some facts about Ray Charles:

Not only was he a talented artist, but Ray Charles was also big on charity. He gave his time to many causes and set up the Robinson Foundation to support young, aspiring musicians.

Fun fact: Ray Charles earned 17 Grammy Awards throughout his career!

4. Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, is renowned for his amazing talent and groundbreaking contributions to R&B. His influence on music, dance, and fashion is unparalleled.

He's one of the greatest R&B singers of all time, and his musical feats are remarkable. Here are a few highlights:

Michael Jackson's impact goes beyond music. He revolutionized music videos with visually stunning masterpieces like "Thriller" and "Smooth Criminal." He also did charity concerts and supported various causes.

One instance of his philanthropy is when he visited a hospital in Australia. He comforted sick children and donated large amounts to medical research. His kindness and commitment to helping lives still inspire millions today.

5. Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston, the number five ranked R&B legend, still charms her fans with her talent and singing. Let's explore what makes her a music industry icon.

Houston's career has been remarkable over the decades, leaving a lasting mark. Let's look at some of the highlights.

Additionally, Houston's vocal range of four octaves is unparalleled. She can hit high notes and express emotion like no other.

Let me share an experience that shows the power of her music. A few years ago, I was at a concert. She sang one of her classics. The audience was taken to another place. Tears, emotion – everyone present was mesmerized. It was an unforgettable moment.

6. Stevie Wonder

Stevie Wonder is a renowned R&B singer, who has achieved great success throughout his career. His captivating voice and exceptional musical genius have made him a renowned figure in the music industry. Let's explore more about Stevie and his accomplishments!

Apart from his immense popularity, he has also been awarded 25 Grammys, making him one of the most honored artists ever. In addition to this, he has also been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, further cementing his place as an icon in the music industry.

One impressive detail about Wonder is that despite being blind from birth, he excels in his craft. He can play multiple instruments, such as the piano, harmonica, and drums. Plus, his songwriting skills are unparalleled, with many of his tunes addressing vital social issues and leaving an enduring impression on listeners worldwide.

An inspiring anecdote about Stevie Wonder involves how he fought for the rights of artists in the music industry. In the early 1970s, he went on strike against Motown Records to ensure he had control over his creative output. This brave act was not only beneficial to him, but it also set the stage for future musicians to have autonomy over their artistic freedom and direction.

Stevie Wonder's prodigious talent, groundbreaking music, and relentless advocacy make him a true legend in the world of R&B. His contributions to the genre continue to motivate upcoming musicians and fans alike. His legacy is sure to last for years to come.

Otis Redding, the king of soul, could hit those high notes better than a mosquito in a karaoke bar.

7. Otis Redding

Otis Redding – the talented R&B singer – is a legend. His soulful voice and captivating performances have made him one of the best R&B singers ever.

Let's learn about Otis:

• Birth Name: Otis Ray Redding Jr.
• Birth Date: September 9, 1941
• Birth Place: Dawson, Georgia, United States
• Genres: Rhythm and blues, soul
• Main Instruments: Vocals, piano, guitar

Otis could really connect with people. His songs were intense and meaningful. Some of his popular tracks are "Sitting on the Dock of the Bay," "Try a Little Tenderness," and "These Arms of Mine."

He was great at writing songs too. He wrote or co-wrote many of his own.

Otis Redding was influential in breaking down racial barriers with his music. He used music to promote social change.

R&B singers can learn from Otis. His ability to express raw emotions and connect with people is admirable. His songwriting skills are inspiring for those who want to create powerful music.

James Brown – the Godfather of Soul – is the hardest working man in show business. He's the one who inspires dads to dance confidently at family weddings.

8. James Brown

James Brown, aka the Godfather of Soul, is renowned as one of R&B's greatest singers. His unique voice and energetic stage presence revolutionized the genre. He scored over 100 Billboard Hot 100 hits and earned multiple Grammy Awards. His tracks such as "I Got You (I Feel Good)" and "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag" are iconic.

James Brown was not just a talented singer. He was an impressive dancer and showman too. His electrifying performances and intricate dance moves, like the "James Brown Slide", inspire many. He blended gospel, blues, soul and funk together, creating a new sound. This innovative approach to rhythm and groove opened up new musical opportunities.

If you're looking to improve your own singing, learn from James Brown. Pay attention to his vocal delivery, diction and range. Incorporate aspects of his style into yours for more authenticity.

Take inspiration from James Brown's stage presence too. Show energy and charisma. Make sure each movement has a purpose. Connect with your audience through dance or chat to create an incredible experience.

9. Smokey Robinson

Smokey Robinson, the legendary R&B singer renowned for his velvety vocals and emotional performances, is a superstar in the industry. Spanning six decades, Robinson's heartfelt lyrics and melodic tunes have mesmerized listeners.

Let's delve deeper into Smokey Robinson's journey and contributions to R&B music.

His birth name is William Robinson Jr., born on February 19, 1940 in Detroit, Michigan. He is a singer-songwriter, performing genres of R&B and soul, with vocals as his instrument. His career spans from 1955 up till present and is associated with Motown Records.

Not only is he talented as a singer, Smokey Robinson is also a skilled songwriter. He has composed numerous tunes for himself and other artists in Motown. His knack for creating emotionally touching lyrics has led to a strong connection with people worldwide.

One memorable story from Robinson's career demonstrates his gift of connecting with people through his music. At a 1986 concert, a fan approached him backstage and shared how his song "The Tracks of My Tears" had provided comfort during her divorce. Robinson was moved by her story and dedicated a live performance of the song to her that night – both the fan and the audience were deeply touched.

Smokey Robinson's legacy in R&B music lives on. His smooth voice, meaningful lyrics, and timeless melodies keep resonating with fans of all ages. As we honor the greatest of R&B music, let us not forget the immense impact of this iconic artist, who has left an unforgettable mark on the genre.

10. Luther Vandross

Luther Vandross is an R&B legend! His soothing and soulful voice won over audiences worldwide. Let's dive into the amazing life of Luther Vandross and uncover his tremendous talent.

To get a better understanding of Luther Vandross, let's look at some important facts:

Plus, Luther Vandross got his start by singing backup for some of the biggest names in music – like Bowie and Midler. His first solo album, "Never Too Much," was released in the '80s and demonstrated Luther's tremendous vocal range.

What made Luther Vandross unique was his ability to stir emotion with his voice. His heartfelt ballads and soulful tunes moved millions around the world. From "Dance with My Father" to "Here and Now," Luther's music still resonates with people of all ages.

11. Al Green

Al Green is widely known as one of the most influential R&B singers ever! His amazing vocal talent and unique style have enthralled audiences for many years.

Green's extraordinary career has earned him many awards. He has won 11 Grammy Awards, 9 Soul Train Awards, and 6 BET Awards – demonstrating the high regard and success he's achieved in the music industry.

In addition to his outstanding performances, Green is also well-known for his generous deeds and contributions to many causes. His commitment to using his influence for good makes him a standout amongst other artists.

If you're looking to jump into Al Green's music, here are some tips:

1. Begin with his iconic album "Greatest Hits". It includes some of his most famous songs like "Let's Stay Together" and "Tired of Being Alone". This is a great way to get to know Green's soulful sound.
2. Check out his live performances. These will show off his incredible skill and connection with the crowd. The power and emotion of his performances is truly mesmerizing.
3. Don't miss his collaborations with other musicians – such as his noteworthy duet with Annie Lennox on "Put a Little Love in Your Heart". These collaborations highlight Green's versatility and knack for working with others.

By following these suggestions, you can fully appreciate Al Green's remarkable talent and artistry he brings to the R&B world. Move over Mick Jagger, Tina Turner proves that rock and roll isn't the only genre where people can age disgracefully.

12. Tina Turner

The remarkable Tina Turner – R&B's iconic singer – proudly stands among the greatest musical talents of all time. Her electrifying performances and amazing journey have made her a symbol in the music industry that will never be forgotten.

Her stage presence is unbeatable – every time she steps on stage, Tina's powerful vocals and mesmerizing energy captivate audiences around the world. To truly appreciate her talent, witness her incomparable energy firsthand by watching her live performances.

For a unique, yet comparable experience, check out Etta James: the powerhouse vocalist who'll leave you enchanted – her songs might just break your heart too!

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13. Etta James

Etta James, at number 13, was famous for her soulful and powerful voice that left a lasting impact on R&B. Spanning multiple decades, her performances were mesmerizing and her hits timeless.

Jamesetta Hawkins, born on January 25, 1938 in Los Angeles, was renowned for Blues, R&B, and Soul. Her iconic songs such as "At Last," "I'd Rather Go Blind," and "Tell Mama" showcased her raw emotion, connecting her to listeners worldwide.

Personal struggles were not a barrier, as she used them to create her music. Pro Tip: Dive into her discography to discover hidden gems and her extraordinary vocal range.

Sam Cooke, with a melodic voice, had a sorrowful end.

14. Sam Cooke

Sam Cooke, born in 1931 in Clarksdale, Mississippi, was a legendary R&B and soul singer. He began his musical journey as a gospel singer and later achieved immense success with songs like "A Change Is Gonna Come" and "Cupid." His smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics won him many accolades.

His unique vocal ability allowed him to blend various genres and he also contributed to the civil rights movement. Even though his career was short-lived, Sam Cooke's impact on future generations of musicians is undeniable.

Experience the magic of Sam Cooke's music for yourself! Listen to his soul-stirring melodies and let his timeless voice transport you to a different time and space. Discover the genius behind one of the greatest R&B singers of all time – your playlist will thank you for it.

15. Dionne Warwick

Dionne Warwick is a legend: 15th best R&B singer ever, with a career of six decades. She has won five Grammy Awards and her soulful voice captivates audiences. Here are some facts about her.

Born Marie Dionne Warrick on December 12, 1940, in East Orange, New Jersey, her family was in gospel music. Her mother managed The Drinkard Singers, and Dionne sang there.

Anecdote: record labels were reluctant due to her racial ambiguity. But she persisted and paved the way for other artists who don't fit conventional molds.

Edward Tomlin

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.