Best R&B Singers of All Time - Top 10 Harmonies Through Time
by B Kishwar | Updated Dec 09, 2023
Top 10 Best R&B Singers of All Time
1
Michael Jackson
Butterflies
2
Beyoncé
Crazy In Love, Single Ladies, Halo
3
Usher
Confessions
4
Johnny Gill
My, My, My; Rub You the Right Way
5
The Weeknd
Wicked Games, Starboy
6
Zayn Malik
PILLOWTALK
7
Whitney Houston
Saving All My Love
8
Mariah Carey
Vision of Love
9
Jason Derulo
Whatcha Say, Ridin' Solo
10
Chris Brown
With You, No Air
S.No.
Best R&B Singers of All Time
Popular Songs
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Best R&B Singers of All Time
The realm of Rhythm and Blues (R&B) has produced some of the most iconic and influential voices in the history of music. From soul-stirring ballads to electrifying performances, the best R&B singers have left an indelible mark on the industry. These artists, with their unparalleled vocal prowess and ability to convey raw emotion, have shaped the genre and crossed musical boundaries. The list of the best R&B singers of all time is a celebration of the diverse talents that have not only defined R&B but have also inspired generations of musicians across various genres. Whether it's the timeless classics of Motown or the contemporary hits of today, these singers have etched their names in the annals of music history, earning their status as legends in the world of R&B.
1. Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson, born on August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana, was a revolutionary figure in the music industry and is often hailed as the "King of Pop." His career began at a young age as a member of the Jackson 5, alongside his siblings. However, it was his solo career that catapulted him into global superstardom.
With his unmatched vocal range, exceptional dance moves, and innovative music videos, Michael Jackson became a cultural icon. His 1982 album "Thriller" is the best-selling album of all time, featuring iconic tracks like "Billie Jean" and the groundbreaking music video for the title track. Jackson's influence extended beyond music; he was a humanitarian and philanthropist, known for his charitable efforts. Despite his untimely death on June 25, 2009, Michael Jackson's legacy endures, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music and entertainment.
2. Beyoncé
Born on September 4, 1981, in Houston, Texas, Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter is a multifaceted artist whose impact spans singing, songwriting, and acting. Initially rising to fame as the lead singer of Destiny's Child, one of the world's best-selling girl groups, Beyoncé later embarked on a solo career that has solidified her as one of the greatest entertainers of her generation.
Known for her powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence, Beyoncé has released critically acclaimed albums such as "Dangerously In Love," "Lemonade," and "Beyoncé." She has amassed numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, and her influence extends beyond music. Beyoncé is recognized for her activism, particularly in advocating for racial and gender equality. Her performances, such as the visually stunning set at Coachella in 2018, showcase her artistry and commitment to pushing boundaries within the music industry.
3. Usher
Usher Terry Raymond IV, born on October 14, 1978, in Dallas, Texas, is a celebrated American singer, songwriter, actor, and dancer. Usher rose to prominence in the late 1990s with the release of his second album, "My Way," which featured hit singles like "Nice & Slow" and "You Make Me Wanna." His smooth voice, impeccable dance moves, and charismatic stage presence quickly established him as a leading figure in contemporary R&B. Usher continued his success with subsequent albums like "8701" and "Confessions," the latter being one of the best-selling R&B albums in history.
Known for his ability to seamlessly blend R&B with other genres, Usher has left an enduring impact on the music landscape. Beyond his musical achievements, he has also ventured into acting and has been recognized for his philanthropic work, making Usher a well-rounded and influential figure in the entertainment industry.
4. Johnny Gill
Johnny Gill is an American R&B singer and songwriter who has made significant contributions to the genre since the 1980s. Born on May 22, 1966, Gill first gained prominence as a solo artist in the late '80s with his self-titled album, featuring hits like "Rub You the Right Way" and "My, My, My." His smooth and powerful vocals, coupled with his ability to convey emotion, quickly established him as a standout in the R&B scene.
Prior to his solo career, Gill was a member of the renowned R&B group New Edition, adding depth and richness to their sound. With a career spanning several decades, Johnny Gill continues to be a respected figure in the R&B landscape, consistently delivering soulful performances and leaving an enduring impact on the genre.
5. The Weeknd
The Weeknd, born Abel Makkonen Tesfaye on February 16, 1990, is a Canadian singer, songwriter, and record producer who has emerged as a dominant force in contemporary R&B and pop. Known for his distinctive falsetto vocals and enigmatic stage presence, The Weeknd gained widespread recognition with his mixtapes before achieving mainstream success with albums like "Kiss Land," "Beauty Behind The Madness," and "Starboy."
His genre-blurring music often explores themes of love, excess, and the darker side of fame. The Weeknd's impact on modern R&B is undeniable, with chart-topping hits like "Blinding Lights" and "Can't Feel My Face." Beyond his commercial success, The Weeknd has been praised for his innovation in pushing the boundaries of R&B and pop music, earning critical acclaim and numerous awards.
6. Zayn Malik
Zayn Malik, known mononymously as ZAYN, is a British singer and songwriter born on January 12, 1993. Rising to fame as a member of the globally successful boy band One Direction, Zayn embarked on a solo career that showcased his versatility and distinct musical style. His debut solo album, "Mind of Mine," featuring the hit single "PILLOWTALK," marked his transition from pop to a more R&B-influenced sound.
Zayn's soulful voice and artistic exploration have earned him recognition in the contemporary R&B landscape. Beyond his musical endeavors, Zayn has become a fashion icon and continues to evolve as an artist, making him a notable figure in both the music and entertainment industries.
7. Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston, born on August 9, 1963, in Newark, New Jersey, is widely regarded as one of the greatest vocalists in the history of contemporary music. Known as "The Voice," Houston's powerful and soulful delivery earned her worldwide acclaim. Her career took flight in the 1980s with a string of chart-topping hits and critically acclaimed albums. Whitney's eponymous debut album, released in 1985, featured iconic tracks like "Saving All My Love for You" and "How Will I Know," showcasing her vocal range and emotional depth.
She continued her meteoric rise with albums like "Whitney" and "The Bodyguard," the latter of which spawned the timeless ballad "I Will Always Love You." Houston's impact extends beyond her chart success; she shattered racial barriers and paved the way for future Black artists in the mainstream music industry. Despite personal struggles, her influence remains unparalleled, solidifying her legacy as an R&B and pop icon.
8. Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey, born on March 27, 1970, in Huntington, New York, is a multi-octave vocal virtuoso and one of the best-selling female artists in the history of music. Often referred to as the "Songbird Supreme," Carey's illustrious career spans multiple decades and genres. Her self-titled debut album, released in 1990, introduced the world to her impressive vocal range and featured hits like "Vision of Love" and "Love Takes Time." Mariah's ability to effortlessly blend R&B, pop, and hip-hop elements contributed to her chart dominance throughout the '90s.
She continued to redefine contemporary R&B with albums such as "Daydream" and "Butterfly." Known for her Christmas classic "All I Want for Christmas Is You" and numerous chart-toppers, Mariah Carey's impact on the music industry transcends her vocal prowess; she is a pioneer, a producer, and a cultural phenomenon.
9. Jason Derulo
Jason Derulo, born on September 21, 1989, in Miramar, Florida, is a versatile artist known for his proficiency in R&B, pop, and dance music. Derulo's career took off in 2009 with the release of his self-titled debut album, featuring chart-topping singles like "Whatcha Say" and "In My Head." His distinctive voice, coupled with his impeccable dance moves, quickly made him a pop sensation.
Derulo continued to dominate the charts with hits like "Talk Dirty," "Want to Want Me," and "Swalla." Beyond his singing career, Jason Derulo is recognized for his collaborations with other artists and his ventures in songwriting and producing. With a consistent presence in the contemporary music scene, Derulo continues to evolve his sound, remaining a dynamic force in the realm of R&B-infused pop.
10. Chris Brown
Christopher Maurice "Chris" Brown, born on May 5, 1989, in Tappahannock, Virginia, is a highly acclaimed American singer, songwriter, dancer, and actor. Rising to fame in the mid-2000s as a teen sensation with his debut single "Run It!" and the subsequent album "Chris Brown," he quickly became a prominent figure in R&B and pop music. Known for his smooth vocals, impressive dance moves, and versatility, Brown has consistently delivered chart-topping hits across various styles, ranging from R&B and hip-hop to pop and dance. Despite facing personal challenges, his undeniable talent and artistic contributions have solidified his status as one of the best-selling music artists globally.
Chris Brown's discography includes critically acclaimed albums such as "Exclusive," "F.A.M.E.," and "Indigo," showcasing his evolution as an artist. Hits like "With You," "No Air," and "Forever" have become anthems of contemporary R&B. Beyond his musical endeavors, Brown has also made a mark in the acting world and remains a cultural icon. While his career has been marked by controversies, Chris Brown's undeniable talent and impact on the music industry cannot be overlooked, making him a significant and influential figure in the realm of R&B.
Who Shaped Modern R&B?
Modern R&B owes its diverse and dynamic landscape to a select group of artists who have significantly shaped and influenced the genre. These trailblazers, through their innovative styles, groundbreaking contributions, and genre-defying approaches, have left an indelible mark on the evolution of R&B.
Beyoncé:
Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter, often hailed as the Queen of R&B, has been a transformative force in shaping modern R&B. Starting as a member of Destiny's Child, Beyoncé's solo career skyrocketed with hits like "Crazy In Love," "Single Ladies," and "Halo." Her ability to seamlessly blend R&B with pop, hip-hop, and even elements of rock has set a precedent for versatility in the genre. Beyond her musical prowess, Beyoncé's influence extends to her advocacy for social issues, making her an icon in both the entertainment and activism spheres.
Frank Ocean:
Frank Ocean has emerged as a defining figure in modern R&B with his boundary-pushing sound and introspective lyricism. His critically acclaimed debut album, "Channel Orange," showcased a fusion of R&B, soul, and alternative influences, earning him praise for his innovative approach. Ocean's willingness to explore themes of identity, love, and societal issues has added depth and complexity to modern R&B, attracting a diverse audience and inspiring a new wave of artists.
The Weeknd:
Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, known as The Weeknd, has played a pivotal role in reshaping the contemporary R&B landscape. With his distinctive falsetto, atmospheric production, and dark, introspective themes, The Weeknd has carved out a niche for himself. Hits like "Blinding Lights" and "Can't Feel My Face" showcase his ability to infuse R&B with elements of electronic, pop, and synthwave, contributing to the genre's evolution and expanding its reach into mainstream success.
Anderson .Paak:
Anderson .Paak has brought a refreshing and eclectic energy to modern R&B with his genre-blending sound. Seamlessly incorporating elements of funk, soul, and hip-hop, .Paak's versatility as a singer, rapper, and drummer has set him apart. Albums like "Malibu" and "Ventura" showcase his ability to navigate various musical styles, reflecting the genre-fluid nature of contemporary R&B.
Miguel:
Miguel's fusion of R&B, funk, and rock elements has positioned him as a key influencer in modern R&B. His album "Kaleidoscope Dream" garnered critical acclaim for its experimental approach and earned him a dedicated fan base. Miguel's willingness to experiment with different sounds and challenge traditional R&B norms has contributed to the genre's ongoing evolution.
Artists like Beyoncé, Frank Ocean, The Weeknd, Anderson .Paak, and Miguel have played pivotal roles in shaping modern R&B by pushing boundaries, embracing diversity, and bringing a fresh perspective to the genre. Their impact extends beyond musical boundaries, influencing the cultural and social landscape of contemporary R&
Best R&B Singers of All Time - FAQs
Jason Derulo is an American singer, songwriter, and dancer known for his blend of R&B, pop, and electronic music. He rose to fame in 2009 with the release of his debut single "Whatcha Say," which quickly became a chart-topping hit.
Jason Derulo's music is a fusion of R&B, pop, and electronic elements. His distinct style showcases catchy hooks, smooth vocals, and often incorporates danceable beats, contributing to his widespread appeal.
Some of Jason Derulo's notable hits include "Whatcha Say," "Ridin' Solo," and "Talk Dirty." His chart-topping albums include self-titled releases like "Jason Derulo" and "Talk Dirty," showcasing his consistent success in the music industry.
Chris Brown was born on May 5, 1989, in Tappahannock, Virginia. He first gained recognition in the mid-2000s as a teen sensation with his debut single "Run It!" and the subsequent release of his self-titled album "Chris Brown."
Chris Brown excels in R&B, hip-hop, pop, and dance music. Some of his popular songs include "With You," "No Air," and "Forever." His versatile style and impressive dance moves have contributed to his success across various music genres.