The Greatest R&B Artists of All Time

The Weeknd is a Toronto-born singer songwriter and record producer. He is known for his mixtapes, which he began releasing in 2011; his compilation album Trilogy, consisting of remastered versions of his earlier mixtapes; and three studio albums: Kiss Land (2013), Beauty Behind The Madness (2015) and Starboy (2016). He is widely known for his hit songs, including "High For This", "What You Need", "Loft Music", "Earned It" in 2015, "The Hills", "Can't Feel My Face", "Call Out My Name", "Save your tears" etc The Weeknd's hit song "Blinding Lights" charted for 90 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, and was crowned the greatest Billboard Hot 100 song of all time in Nov. 2021.

Austin Richard Post known as Post Malone is a singer whose career began with the release of his debut single "White Iverson" in 2015. His debut album Stoney (2016) peaked at number one on the Billboard 200, and his second album Beerbongs & Bentleys (2018) peaked at number one on the Billboard 200 again. The album contains the hits "Rockstar" and "Psycho".

Brown is originally from a small town in Virginia. When he was young, he discovered his love for music and dancing. He began his career in music when he was 15 years old, signing with Jive Records. He released his first album, a self-titled record, in 2005. Chris Brown has been in the industry for twenty years and is only getting more popular. Caught up in the whirlwind of superstardom, his first single “Run It” topped the charts.With a total of nine albums, Chris’ consistency has made him shine more than most of his contemporaries.The Grammy-winning singer's personal life is controversial, but when it comes to his music he is sincere and dedicated.

Sam Smith is a British singer and songwriter. Born in London, Smith first appeared on the radar in 2012 when he collaborated with the electronic music duo Disclosure, singing on their single "Latch." Shortly after, Smith released their first single, "Lay Me Down." In 2014, they released their debut album In the Lonely Hour , which contained the hit single "Stay With Me." This track was a major radio hit for the entire year.

Dua Lipa is an English singer, songwriter and model of Albanian descent, living in London, England in 1995. Her musical career began at a young age and by the time she was 14 years old, after signing with Warner Music Group in 2015, she began working on her debut studio album. Her first singles "Be the One" and "Hotter Than Hell" were released in 2016 and reached the top 10 in several countries. Her self-titled album was released in February 2018. The album spawned seven singles, including "New Rules", which reached number one in the United Kingdom. Dua Lipa won six Brit Awards in 2018.

Justin Bieber is one of the youngest singers to become famous all over the world, thanks to his manager Scooter Braun. At just 16 years old, Bieber's debut album My Life 2.0 made him the youngest artist to top the Billboard 200. His success only continued to grow over time. Some of the most popular pop songs like "Cold Water," "Let Me Love You," and "I'm the One" belong to him. The winner of two Grammys, a record 21 MTV Europe Music Awards, 20 Billboard Music Awards, and 18 American Music Awards, Bieber has released six albums so far, with his latest, Justice, coming out in 2021.

Demi Lovato is a singer and a songwriter who has been nominated for and won many awards, including the Latin Grammy Award in 2011. She has sold over 20 million albums worldwide and holds the record for most songs to debut in the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 by a female artist. She also has her own clothing line, Lovato Fashion, and she was the face of Disney Channel's Princess Protection Program.

Ariana Grande is an American singer and actress best known for her hit songs and roles in Disney Channel and Broadway musicals. The singer, who was born in Boca Raton, Florida, has a ton of talent and could go on to become even more famous than she is today. Her music is often described as unique and honest, which has given her a large fan base. Much of her success has been attributed to her social media presence, which has allowed her to connect with her fans in a way that other stars cannot. She is widely known for her hit songs, including the number-one song, Thank U, Next , “Into You’” ,“My Everything” and more.

Beyonce is one of the most successful and popular entertainers in the world. She began her career as a member of the R&B group Destiny's Child, and she has since gone on to enjoy a hugely successful solo career. As well as being an accomplished singer and songwriter, Beyonce is also an acclaimed actress. She has starred in a number of films, including 'Dreamgirls' and 'The Fighting Temptations'. In addition to her many talents, Beyonce is also widely considered to be one of the most beautiful women in the world. Her striking features and curvaceous figure have made her a global style icon, and she regularly tops lists of the world's most sexy women. There is no doubt that Beyonce is a hugely talented and incredibly successful woman.

Rihanna is one of the most popular and successful recording artists of all time. She has also made a name for herself as a fashion designer and model. Born in Barbados in 1988, Rihanna began her music career in 2005 with the release of her debut album, "Music of the Sun". Since then, she has gone on to release eight additional studio albums, including the Grammy-winning "Unapologetic". In addition to her musical accomplishments, Rihanna has also been a successful fashion designer. In 2016, she launched her own fashion line, "Fenty x Puma". The following year, she was named Creative Director of Puma. As a model, Rihanna has appeared on the cover of numerous magazines, including "Vogue", "Harper's Bazaar" and "Elle". She has also been the face of a number of high-profile advertising campaigns, including those for Dior, Balmain, and Fenty Beauty. Throughout her career, Rihanna has been widely praised for her sex appeal and stylishness. In 2018, she was named one of Time magazine's "100 Most Influential People".

Zayn Malik is a British singer, songwriter and model. Born on 12 January 1993 in Bradford, West Yorkshire, England to a family of Pakistani descent, Zayn rose to stardom after becoming a member of the boy band One Direction in 2010. Zayn first became famous in 2010 when his band auditioned and won the seventh series of The X Factor UK, where they quickly became an international success. At the time of forming One Direction, Zayn was 16 years old and had no formal singing experience; he has since attributed his stage fright as one of his reasons for leaving.

Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini, professionally known as Doja Cat, is a singer and songwriter who hails from America. She is also a rapper and record producer of South African descent. She first began composing and releasing music on SoundCloud at the age of 17. Her song "So High" caught the attention of Kemosabe Records and RCA Records, thus signing a contract with them. Doja has been known through the TikTok application. On October 30, 2020, Ariana Grande released her sixth album in which Doja also participated with vocals in the song 'motive'.

Bruno Mars ,his birth name is Peter Gene Bayot Hernandez, is a true musical prodigy. He is an American singer, songwriter, and producer. He's been singing since he was 4 and has been playing drums, keyboard, bass, and guitar since then, too. Bruno Mars is so talented that he's had 6 Number 1 singles and has won tons of awards.  In addition to singing, he writes and produces music, plays a variety of instruments (including the piano), and has had success in different genres of music. Mars is accompanied by his band, the Hooligans, who play a number of instruments including electric guitar, bass, the piano, and drums.

In 2010, Bruno Mars rose to fame with his collaboration on B.o.B's song "Nothin' on You" and Travie McCoy's "Billionaire." These songs were the starting points for his career in music. His debut album, Doo-Wops & Hooligans, released in 2010, blended pop and reggae sounds with R&B.

Bryson Tiller is a famous American rapper, singer, and songwriter. He has gained immense popularity following the release of his first ever single. His career began in 2011, when he made a mixtape called Killer Instinct Vol.1. He gained popularity when he released his hit single,“Don’t” which was originally released on SoundCloud but then commercially released. The song peaked at number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and was remixed by numerous other artists.

In March 2016, Tiller received the Key to the City of Louisville by Mayor Greg Fischer. He won an award for his accomplishments at the BET Awards in the same year — Best New Artist and Best Male R&B/Pop Artist.

Ricardo Valdez Valentine - 6lack was born in Baltimore, Maryland, On the 24th day of June, 1992. He began his career as a battle rapper when he was still in middle school. He then signed with Flo Rida’s International Music Group, but left university to focus on his music career. Over the next five years, he showcased his talent through his SoundCloud account.

He began to gain popularity in 2015 when he appeared on tracks with EARTHGANG and J.I.D. He released his first major hit, “PRBLMS” in 2016. He is currently signed to LVRN (Love Renaissance) and Interscope Records.

John Legend is an American singer, songwriter, and musician who is best known for his albums ‘Once Again’ and ‘Darkness and Light.’ He was born in Springfield, Ohio in 1978. Legend started performing for his church choir when he was just 4 years old.He learned to play the piano at seven. During his time at college, he was the president and lead singer for a musical group called Counterparts. He released many studio albums, collaborating with Kanye West, Britney Spears, and Lauryn Hill. In 2015, he received an ‘Oscar’ for the song ‘Glory’ which was featured in the movie ‘Selma.’ He has won numerous other significant awards, including 10 Grammys and a Golden Globe award. He is also an actor and has acted in the movie ‘La La Land’ which became a huge hit and won six Oscars.

Rising to international fame in the late 1970s and achieving significant success in the 1980s, Easton is known for her versatile voice that spans pop, adult contemporary, and dance genres. Her notable hits include "Morning Train (Nine to Five)" and the James Bond theme song "For Your Eyes Only". In addition to her music career, Easton has made strides in acting, appearing in films, TV shows, and stage productions. With Grammy Awards and a successful career that transcends various entertainment mediums, Sheena Easton remains a prominent and multifaceted figure in the world of entertainment.

She rose to fame on the Disney Channel's "Shake It Up" and gained critical acclaim for her role in the HBO series "Euphoria". Beyond acting, Zendaya is a successful singer and a fashion icon. In 2020, she made history by becoming the youngest actress to win an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. 

She is a British fashion designer and businesswoman, launching her own fashion label in 2008. The Victoria Beckham brand focuses on women's ready-to-wear clothing, accessories, and eyewear. Beckham has received recognition for her contributions to the fashion world and has showcased her collections at events like New York Fashion Week. For the latest information, please check more recent sources.

Some of Prince's most famous albums include "Purple Rain," "Sign o' the Times" and "1999". His energetic stage presence, distinctive voice, and virtuosity on multiple instruments, including guitar, keyboards, and drums, contributed to his legendary status in the music industry.

Prince was also known for his ability to push musical boundaries and challenge conventional norms. Throughout his career, he received numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004.

Tragically, Prince passed away on April 21, 2016, leaving behind a vast musical legacy that continues to influence artists across genres. His impact on the music world and popular culture remains profound, and he is remembered as one of the greatest musicians of his generation.

OutKast, formed in the early 1990s, achieved widespread success with albums like "ATLiens" (1996), "Aquemini" (1998), and "Stankonia" (2000). André 3000's unique delivery, clever wordplay, and willingness to explore various musical genres set him apart in the hip-hop landscape.

In addition to his work with OutKast, André 3000 has engaged in solo projects. Notably, he released "The Love Below", one part of OutKast's double album "Speakerboxxx/The Love Below" (2003), featuring major hits like "Hey Ya" and "Roses"

Beyond music, André 3000 has pursued an acting career, with roles in films such as "Idlewild" (2006), "Four Brothers" (2005), and "Be Cool" (2005). His talents extend beyond music, showcasing his ability to excel in various creative realms.

André 3000 is also known for his distinctive fashion sense, characterized by eclectic and bold choices, making him a fashion icon. Despite maintaining a relatively private and reclusive lifestyle, his impact on the music industry and influence on subsequent generations of artists are widely acknowledged.

André 3000's contributions to hip-hop, both as part of OutKast and in his solo endeavors, have left an indelible mark on the genre. His innovative approach, lyrical prowess, and willingness to push artistic boundaries have earned him acclaim and a lasting influence in the world of music and entertainment.

Rising to fame in the mid-2000s, he is known for his innovative use of auto-tune and catchy melodies. T-Pain's notable songs include "Buy U a Drank (Shawty Snappin')" "Bartender" and "Can't Believe It". Beyond his solo career, he has collaborated with various artists and expanded his presence into film and television.

 Blind since childhood, Wonder signed with Motown at age 11 and became a musical prodigy. Renowned for his emotive voice and proficiency with various instruments, he has produced influential works across soul, R&B, pop, and funk. Hit albums like "Talking Book" and "Songs in the Key of Life" feature classics such as "Superstition" and "I Just Called to Say I Love You". Stevie Wonder's socially conscious lyrics reflect his commitment to civil rights. With numerous Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, he stands as one of the most revered and impactful figures in the history of popular music.

Rising to prominence in the early 1990s with her debut album "What's the 411?" Blige's powerful and soulful voice set her apart. She skillfully blends R&B, hip-hop, and soul, creating hits like "Real Love" and "No More Drama". Beyond her successful music career, Blige has earned acclaim in acting, particularly for her role in "Mudbound" which garnered an Academy Award nomination. Throughout her career, Mary J. Blige has received numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, solidifying her status as a trailblazer in contemporary R&B and an influential figure in the entertainment industry.

Rising to fame in the 1960s and 1970s as part of Ike & Tina Turner, she later found solo success with hits like "What's Love Got to Do with It" and "Private Dancer". Tina Turner's dynamic stage presence, powerful voice, and energetic performances have made her an iconic figure in the music industry. Beyond music, she earned acclaim for her acting roles, notably in "Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome". Turner's enduring influence is reflected in her multiple Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, solidifying her status as a legendary and influential figure in rock and pop music.

Blind since childhood, he rose to prominence in the 1950s and 1960s, pioneering soul music by blending rhythm and blues, gospel, and country. His hits like "What'd I Say" and "Georgia on My Mind" showcased his distinctive voice. Charles received multiple Grammy Awards and broke racial barriers in the music industry. His ability to transcend genres and contribute to the integration of American music solidified his legacy as one of the greatest musicians of the 20th century.

Renowned for his role as the frontman of The Miracles during the Motown era, Robinson's smooth tenor voice and skilled songwriting contributed to hits like "Shop Around" and "Tracks of My Tears". Beyond performing, he made significant contributions as a songwriter and producer for Motown artists, earning him the nickname "The Poet of Motown". Robinson's enduring impact on soul and R&B, both as a performer and behind the scenes, solidifies his status as a pivotal figure in the history of American music.

Rising to fame with the Jackson 5, he achieved even greater success as a solo artist with groundbreaking albums like "Thriller". Jackson's unique vocal style, innovative music videos, and signature dance moves made him a global cultural phenomenon. Hits such as "Billie Jean" and "Thriller" solidified his status as one of the most famous and successful musicians in history. Despite controversies in his personal life, Michael Jackson's impact on the music industry remains immense, and he is remembered as a cultural icon and central figure in the history of popular music.

Born in Memphis, Tennessee, she began her singing career in the church and rose to prominence with Atlantic Records. Franklin's powerful and emotive voice, blending gospel, R&B, and pop, produced iconic hits like "Respect", "Think" and "A Natural Woman". Her rendition of "Respect" became a symbol of empowerment for civil rights and feminism. With 18 Grammy Awards, Franklin's influence reached beyond music, making her a cultural icon. Her legacy as one of the greatest vocalists of all time endures, and she is remembered for her indelible impact on soul and popular music.

A key figure in the Motown sound, Gaye's smooth and soulful voice, coupled with his ability to address social and political issues, set him apart. Iconic songs like "What's Going On" and "Let's Get It On" showcase his emotional depth. The album "What's Going On" is considered a landmark in soul music for its commentary on contemporary issues. Gaye's collaborations and solo career earned him Grammy Awards. Tragically, his life was cut short when he was killed by his father in 1984. Despite his untimely death, Marvin Gaye's music remains celebrated for its enduring impact on soul and R&B.

His soulful voice and heartfelt delivery brought him fame with hits like "Tired of Being Alone" and "Let's Stay Together". "Let's Stay Together" is a classic of soul music. Green, also an ordained pastor, later turned to gospel music. Despite personal challenges, including a notable incident in the 1970s, he continued making music and received recognition, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Al Green remains a revered figure in the history of soul and R&B.

His prominent career in the 1970s produced timeless classics like "Ain't No Sunshine" "Lean on Me" and "Lovely Day". With a soulful voice and introspective lyrics, Withers connected deeply with audiences. Despite his relatively short active career and his reluctance to embrace celebrity, he left an enduring impact on soul music. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2015, Bill Withers' work continues to be celebrated for its timeless quality and emotional depth. He passed away on March 30, 2020.

Initially part of the Commodores, a Motown R&B group, Richie achieved greater success as a solo artist in the early 1980s. Known for his smooth voice and romantic ballads, hits like "All Night Long" and "Hello" established him as a prominent figure in pop and R&B. His album "Can't Slow Down" won the Grammy for Album of the Year in 1985. Richie's songwriting talents also contributed to his impact on the music industry, and he received numerous awards, including Grammy Awards and an Academy Award for "Say You, Say Me". Lionel Richie remains an iconic and respected figure in the world of entertainment.

A key figure in the civil rights movement, he first gained fame as a member of The Impressions, known for socially conscious hits. Mayfield's solo career included iconic albums like "Superfly" addressing issues of race and inequality. Despite facing challenges, including paralysis in 1990, he continued making music. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice, Curtis Mayfield's legacy is marked by his soulful vocals, socially relevant lyrics, and innovation in arrangement, a pioneering artist in the world of soul and R&B. He passed away on December 26, 1999.

Rising from a background singer to a solo artist, Vandross achieved commercial success with his debut album, "Never Too Much" in 1981. His romantic ballads, including hits like "Here and Now" and "Dance with My Father" showcased his ability to convey deep emotions. Vandross, a multiple Grammy Award winner, also worked as a songwriter and producer for various artists, contributing significantly to R&B and soul music. Despite his passing on July 1, 2005, Luther Vandross's influence and legacy endure through his timeless contributions to the music industry.

Initially part of The Deele, he achieved greater success as a solo artist known for his smooth and soulful voice. Babyface's impact on the music industry extends to his prolific career as a songwriter and producer, collaborating with artists like Whitney Houston and Boyz II Men. His solo hits include "Whip Appeal" and "Tender Lover". Babyface's contributions have earned him multiple Grammy Awards, solidifying his status as a respected figure in contemporary R&B and pop music.

She first gained fame as the lead singer of the Supremes in the 1960s. After leaving the group in 1970, Ross launched a highly successful solo career, producing hits like "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" and "Endless Love". Known for her powerful voice and versatility across genres, including soul and disco, she is celebrated as one of the greatest female vocalists in the history of popular music. In addition to her music career, Ross has ventured into acting, starring in acclaimed films like "Lady Sings the Blues". Over the years, she has received numerous awards and honors, solidifying her status as a cultural icon.

She rose to prominence as the lead vocalist for the funk band Rufus in the 1970s, producing hits like "Tell Me Something Good". Chaka Khan's dynamic voice and stage presence led to a successful solo career, with hits such as "I'm Every Woman" and "I Feel for You". Renowned for her versatility, she has explored various genres, including funk, R&B, jazz, and pop. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame both as a solo artist and with Rufus, Chaka Khan remains a respected figure in the music industry, celebrated for her enduring impact on funk and R&B.

Rising to fame in the mid-2000s with hits like "Goodies" and "1, 2 Step" Ciara is known for her smooth vocals, energetic performances, and dance skills. She has released several successful albums, including "Ciara" and "Fantasy Ride". Ciara has also ventured into acting and modeling, in addition to engaging in philanthropic activities. 

Rising to fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s with albums like "Control" and "Rhythm Nation 1814" she is known for her distinctive voice, innovative music videos, and socially conscious themes. Some of her hits include "Nasty" and "That's the Way Love Goes". Beyond music, Janet has had a successful acting career and is recognized for her philanthropy. 

 She gained prominence in the late 1980s and early 1990s as a choreographer for artists like Janet Jackson, and she became widely recognized for her own successful music and dance career.

Paula Abdul released hit songs like "Straight Up" "Forever Your Girl" and "Opposites Attract" which helped establish her as a pop music sensation. In addition to her music career, Abdul is known for her role as a judge on the television competition shows "American Idol" and "So You Think You Can Dance" where she provided feedback on contestants' singing and dancing abilities.

Throughout her career, Paula Abdul has received numerous awards for her contributions to the entertainment industry, including a Grammy Award for Best Music Video for "Opposites Attract".

She gained recognition through her participation in "American Idol" and later rose to fame with her YouTube channel. Her music career took off with the success of her debut single "Medicine" in 2018. Queen Naija is known for creating music that reflects personal experiences and relationships.

She gained recognition with her debut EP, "Pho" in 2016, and later signed to Dreamville Records. Her debut studio album, "Shea Butter Baby" released in 2019, received critical acclaim for its smooth and soulful sound. Lennox is praised for her powerful and emotive vocal delivery, and her music often explores themes of love, self-discovery, and empowerment. 

Born in 1987 in Philadelphia, she gained recognition with her debut album "Fearless" in 2008, featuring hits like "Need U Bad" and "Bust Your Windows". After taking breaks from the industry, she returned with the acclaimed album "Reality Show" in 2015 and released the EP "Heaux Tales" in 2021, exploring themes of love and womanhood. Sullivan has received awards and accolades for her musical contributions.

Chloe x Halle gained recognition for their harmonious vocals and were initially discovered on YouTube by Beyoncé. The duo signed to Beyoncé's record label, Parkwood Entertainment.

Chlöe Bailey's solo career gained attention with the release of her debut single "Have Mercy" in 2021. The song showcased her versatility as an artist and received positive reviews for its bold and confident sound. Chlöe has also expressed her individuality through her fashion and creative projects.

She gained recognition for her participation in the Disney Channel's "Next Big Thing" (N.B.T.) in 2010. Jones later starred in the Disney Channel film "Let It Shine" in 2012, where she played the lead role of Roxanne "Roxie" Andrews.

As a singer, Coco Jones has released several singles, and her music often incorporates elements of pop and R&B. Some of her notable songs include "Holla at the DJ" and "World Is Dancing." She has showcased her vocal talents and acting skills, building a presence in the entertainment industry.

Born on November 3, 1994, in London, she signed with DJ Mustard's label, 10 Summers Records, and released her self-titled debut album in the same year, featuring hits like "Trip". Ella Mai is praised for her soulful voice and her ability to blend R&B with contemporary sounds, establishing herself as a notable figure in the modern R&B scene. 

Born on March 16, 1988, in Los Angeles, she gained recognition through mixtapes like "Sailing Soul(s)" and "Souled Out" leading to her debut studio album of the same name. Her music often explores themes of love, healing, and spirituality, featuring soothing and emotionally resonant vocals. Jhené has collaborated with various artists and is celebrated for her contributions to the modern R&B scene. 

She gained fame in the early 2000s with her debut album "Songs in A Minor," featuring hit singles like "Fallin'". Known for her soulful voice and piano skills, Keys has received numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards. Beyond her music career, she is recognized for activism and philanthropy.

She gained recognition through her participation in "America's Got Talent" in 2011 and later as part of the group Poplyfe. Launching her solo career, Kehlani achieved widespread acclaim with her mixtape "Cloud 19" in 2014. Her debut album, "SweetSexySavage" released in 2017, showcased her R&B, hip-hop, and pop influences. Known for candid and emotionally charged lyrics, she continued to release successful projects like "While We Wait" (2019) and "It Was Good Until It Wasn't" (2020).