Origins: 1940s-1960s, African American communities
Key Characteristics:
- Strong groove and rhythm section
- Gospel-influenced vocals
- Emphasis on emotion and expression
- Horn sections and call-and-response
- Themes of love, relationships, and personal struggles
Historical Context: R&B evolved from blues and gospel music, becoming the foundation for soul music in the 1960s. Motown Records and Stax Records created distinct regional sounds that brought R&B to mainstream audiences.
Subgenres:
- Classic R&B: 1940s-50s urban blues evolution
- Soul: Gospel-influenced 1960s style
- Funk: Rhythm-focused evolution of soul
- Contemporary R&B: Modern production with traditional elements
- Neo-Soul: Late 20th century artistic revival
Influential Artists:
- Ray Charles (Soul pioneer)
- Aretha Franklin (Queen of Soul)
- Stevie Wonder (Motown innovation)
- James Brown (Godfather of Soul/Funk)
- Otis Redding (Southern Soul)
Cultural Impact: R&B and soul music provided the soundtrack for the Civil Rights Movement and continues to influence contemporary popular music.