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R&B Emerges
An artist named Louis Jordan used all the ingredients for R&B unknowingly becoming the first recorded artist of the genre. -
The Genre Is Officially Established
The term R&B or Rhythm & Blues was created by a man named Jerry Wexler as a marketing device for all African American music. -
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R&B is Expanded & Gains Traction
During this time, artists such as Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and Diana Ross came to display and grow the popularity of the genre. They created sub-genres, making them their own and revolutionizing the music as a whole. -
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Modernization
Soulful melodies, funky basslines, and smooth vocals dominated the airwaves. The era saw the rise of disco and funk music, which heavily influenced R&B and gave birth to new sub-genres like disco-soul. The Jackson 5 and James Brown were huge stars during this period. -
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Hip-Hop Convergence
This fusion of Hip-Hop and R&B resulted in the creation of new sub-genres like hip-hop soul and new jack swing. Artists like Mary J. Blige, TLC, and Boyz II Men were at the forefront of this movement, producing chart-topping hits that blended the two styles seamlessly. -
Modern Day R&B
Today's R&B incorporates elements of hip-hop, electronic music, and pop, resulting in a more diverse and experimental sound. Modern R&B lyrics often focus on themes of empowerment, self-love, and social justice, reflecting the changing cultural landscape of the 21st century.