What is RnB?
Also: R&B, Contemporary R&B, Rhythm and Blues
R&B is rhythm and blues in its contemporary form: smooth, vocal-led songwriting that descended from soul and gospel, layered over modern hip-hop, electronic, and pop production. It centres voice, intimacy, and groove: the slow-jam and late-night-radio lineage stretching from Mary J. Blige and D'Angelo through SZA, Frank Ocean, and Daniel Caesar.
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Frequently asked questions
What does R&B stand for?+
R&B stands for rhythm and blues. Today it names a smooth, vocal-led style that descended from soul and gospel and is layered over modern hip-hop, electronic and pop production.
Is it RnB or R&B?+
Both spellings name the same genre. R&B is the standard form, and RnB is a common typed shorthand.
What is the difference between R&B and soul?+
Soul is the older style, and contemporary R&B descends from it along with gospel. R&B keeps the focus on voice, intimacy and groove but sets it over modern hip-hop, electronic and pop production.
Who are some well-known R&B artists?+
The slow-jam and late-night-radio lineage runs from Mary J. Blige and D'Angelo through SZA, Frank Ocean and Daniel Caesar.