What is soulful R&B?
R&B has become a genre so big that it’s difficult to pin down and describe it accurately. There are vast numbers of subgenres that include pop crossovers, hip-hop elements, and electronic inspiration. Let’s look at what makes this genre so idiosyncratic. We’ll start with a bit of history.
R&B was originally a distinctly African-American music that emerged from roots in gospel and Afro-Cuban music. Emotive, often virtuosic vocal performances are usually at the forefront of this genre. The poignant lyrics that are penned by R&B artists speak to love, heartbreak, and the human experience. The music itself features lush arrangements and deep grooves.
While the original heavy hitters of the genre employed relatively simple instrumentals, artists in the 1970s like Al Green and Marvin Gaye pushed R&B forward with complex arrangements and sonic palettes. They established a tradition that remains to this day. R&B writers, artists, and producers utilize ultra-modern production techniques and interesting arrangements to achieve uniquely distinguishable soundscapes.
The soulful R&B songs we’ll look at incorporate funk, jazz, hip-hop, and pop elements into a modern sound that has influenced songwriters and producers worldwide.
