GENRE RESEARCH R&B

Glenn Barco

INTRODUCTION TO R&BRhythm & Blues or R&B as it is most commonly known is genre that originated in the 1940’s. During the 1950’s though the meaning of R&B has been shifting and the term Rhythm & Blues often only applied to blues records. Starting in the mid-1950’s though, this style of music contributed to the development of Rock & Roll.By the 1970’s, Rhythm & Blues was used as a blanket term for soul and funk and in the 1980’s, a newer style of R&B developed and was known as “Contemporary R&B”

Predominantly, during the 1940’s this genre was popular among the African-American demographic. However it became popular among all ethnic groups of people.There are also sub-genres in this genre including:•Contemporary R&B•Smooth JazzAnd Fusion genres (mixture of two or more genres)•Rockabilly

There are many perceptions of this genre. Among my demographic R&B is seen to be relaxing and lyrical with many finding it a popular genre.

KEY ARTISTS IN MOVEMENTThere are many artists/groups that paved the way for current R&B artists in this era. Artists such as:•Boyz II Men•James Brown•Bobby Brown•Whitney Houston •Mariah CareyAnd many more.Some are more influential than others. But none are more influential than Michael Jackson.

It is unparalleled that Michael Jackson left his imprint in the history of music in general. Michael Jackson is a relatable artist to all current artists now. Some taking to similar styles as him such as Chris Brown. Although he is known as “The King of Pop” he has be known to cross genre’s. He’s also one of the first artists who revolutionised the music video with iconic videos to songs like: •Thriller •Billie Jean •Beat It

CURRENT ARTISTSThere are many artists nowadays that copy the style of artists such as Michael Jackson. •Chris Brown•Ne-Yo•Frank Ocean•Bobby Tinsley•Justin Timberlake•Miguel

These are popular artists in the modern day era. Certainly this genre’s artists has changed and evolved since the older era. The old school sound of R&B has changed over the years but there are still elements of what artists like Michael Jackson in the modern day music videos. In today's society, R&B is closely associated with the Hip Hop genre.

RECORD LABELS & KEY INDUSTRY There aren’t many notable record labels in this genre. However labels such as Def Jam and Hidden Beach Recordings.

Def Jam Def Jam Recordings is an American record label, focused primarily on hip hop and urban music and owned by Universal Music Group and operates as part of The Island Def Jam Music Group. R&B artists such as Ne-Yo and Frank Ocean have been known to sign under this label and like every other artist they have also signed to other record labels that may not be directly associated with the R&B genre.

Hidden Beach RecordingsHidden Beach is an American independent record label specialising in Urban alternative, R&B, soul, Inspirational and Contemporary Jazz music. This label was formed in 1998 as the vision of its founder and CEO Steve McKeever.

R&B IN THE MEDIAThere are many forms of medium that present R&B.

Magazines:There aren’t any magazines that are R&B specific, but many magazines have R&B content within them. Blender for example covers all genres like dance, hip-hop and R&B and are known for having female artists on their front cover. Spin also show a variety of genres such as pop, R&B, rock, Hip-Hop and rap music, whilst also focus on the progressive new music scene and the youth culture. Well recognised music magazines like Billboard also have R&B content within them and some information on the artist themselves. Other magazines: The Source and Vibe.

Television:One notable television channel called Massive R&B (Sky Channel 385) specifically show R&B music. However from my own knowledge there may not be genre specific music channels. But there are still channels that showcase R&B music. Channels such as Viva, MTV and VH1 all showcase R&B music from time to time in shows like the UK’s Top 40.

R&B IN THE MEDIARadio:A popular radio station among my age demographic is Choice FM which offer multiple genres. Whilst another recognisable station would be KISS. All radio stations offer R&B music but may not dominantly play that genre. All stations are able to play R&B music and that is a possible reason for why this genre is so popular among all generations.

Internet:With the rapidly growing medium, the internet is a primary hub for anyone who wants to listen to R&B music. Streaming sites such as youtube and spotify can be used to listen to all genres for free. Also with advances in technology other mediums can be used via the internet e.g. Listen to the radio station online and watch their shows online. This is further backed up with music magazines becoming online versions. Websites of the radio stations can also be made for the station to show exclusive content that no one can get by just listening to the radio.With all that said, there are further advances in technology allowing the likes of youtube, spotify, radio stations and magazine becoming applications on smart phones or tablet devices. This makes everything more convenient and accessible from anywhere.

PERSONAL PREDICTIONSPersonally I think the R&B genre will continue to grow. With advances in technology R&B looks like it will flourish. However with the rise of other genres it may be difficult.As years go by, R&B will continue to develop due to the generations changing their clothing and their taste in music. As the population continues to age, it may mean that the R&B genre could struggle to entice the newer generation. However with my current generation R&B will continue to be a success. With strong links to the Hip-Hop genre this will only help with R&B in the future.