Rhythm and Blues, or R&B, is a genre of popular music that has roots in African American culture, reaching back into the early 20th century. Over the years, R&B has evolved, taking on new influences and shaping the sounds of contemporary music in many ways. Central to the story of R&B are the legendary singers whose voices have defied the odds, broken barriers, and have left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of fans around the world. From silky smooth vocalists to powerhouse divas, these iconic artists have defined generations and influenced countless musicians. Let’s count down the top ten most legendary R&B singers of all time.
#10: Teddy Pendergrass
Teddy Pendergrass started his career as the drummer for Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, only to later become the lead singer because of his powerful and emotive voice. Pendergrass was synonymous with the rise of Philly Soul during the 1970s, his baritone voice becoming a staple for romantic ballads and steamy love songs. Hits such as “Turn Off the Lights” and “Love T.K.O.” helped to cement his place in music history as one of the most distinctive voices in R&B.
#9: Patti LaBelle
Patti LaBelle’s voice is nothing short of legendary – a triumphant, powerful instrument capable of both tender subtleties and roof-raising high notes. As the lead singer of Patti LaBelle and the Bluebelles and later on as a solo artist, she charted her path with timeless tracks like “If Only You Knew” and “On My Own.” Widely known as the “Godmother of Soul,” LaBelle’s career has been marked by her incredible range, passionate performances, and the kind of longevity that is the dream of every artist.
#8: Smokey Robinson
As one of the founders of Motown Records, Smokey Robinson’s influence on R&B and soul music stretches far beyond his velvet voice. However, it is his singing, songwriting, and producing skills that truly put him on the map. With his group The Miracles, Robinson delivered classics such as “The Tracks of My Tears” and “Cruisin’.” His smooth vocal stylings and emotive delivery are hallmarks of his legendary status.
#7: Luther Vandross
Luther Vandross was a virtuoso of vocal flexibility, known for his silky-smooth songs that effortlessly climbed the charts in the 1980s and 90s. His voice could convey the deepest of emotions with a simple turn of a phrase. Whether he was singing about heartache or the joy of love, songs like “Here and Now” and “Never Too Much” showcased his masterful control and artistry, making him one of R&B’s most unforgettable voices.
#6: Marvin Gaye
Marvin Gaye’s contributions to the R&B genre cannot be overstated. Dubbed the “Prince of Motown,” Gaye’s music addressed themes of love, spirituality, and sociopolitical issues in a way that was both personal and profound. His classic albums “What’s Going On” and “Let’s Get It On” stand as timeless testimonies to his musical genius. His smooth tenor and multi-octave range have left an everlasting impact on music.
#5: Ray Charles
Ray Charles is often referred to as “The Genius” because of his exceptional musical talents, which crossed genre boundaries with unparalleled ease. He blended R&B with gospel, country, and even jazz, thereby pioneering soul music. His gritty voice and impassioned singing on songs like “I Got a Woman” and “Hit the Road Jack” are definitive performances that have influenced countless musicians across the world.
#4: Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston was not just an R&B singer; she was a global phenomenon whose incredible voice is known worldwide. With a background steeped in gospel, Houston’s career saw her hitting note after incredible note on songs like “I Will Always Love You” and “Greatest Love of All.” Her staggering record sales and groundbreaking achievements, including multiple Grammy awards, speak to her status as one of the greatest vocalists of her time.
#3: Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder is a prodigious talent whose career has spanned over five decades. Blind since shortly after birth, Wonder turned his extraordinary musical gifts into a beacon of creative genius. Renowned for his songwriting as much as his singing, his repertoire includes classics like “Superstition,” “Isn’t She Lovely,” and “Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours.” Stevie Wonder’s influence persists, making him one of music’s most enduring treasures.
#2: Aretha Franklin
Known as the “Queen of Soul,” Aretha Franklin ruled the genre with her powerful and soul-stirring voice. Franklin’s astonishing vocal prowess reigned in hits such as “Respect,” “Chain of Fools,” and “Think.” Her blend of gospel-tinged R&B and profound emotive expression earned her an irreplaceable spot in music history. Franklin’s voice embodied the struggle, strength, and resilience of a generation, making her not just an R&B legend but a cultural icon.
#1: Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson, known as the “King of Pop,” had his roots in R&B music. Starting with his early years as part of The Jackson 5, and throughout his solo career, Jackson transformed the landscape of not just R&B, but popular music worldwide. With groundbreaking albums like “Off the Wall” and “Thriller,” he blended traditional R&B with pop and funk to create a sound that appealed to audiences of all ages and backgrounds. His innovative approach to music, dance, and performance makes Michael Jackson the epitome of a legendary R&B and pop culture phenomenon.
These artists, with their incredible talents and trailblazing musical legacies, have contributed immeasurably to the rich tapestry of R&B music. They have inspired generations, created timeless music, and their influence continues to resonate in the work of contemporary artists. Their voices and artistry have become an integral part of not just R&B’s history but the global narrative of music’s power to move, to inspire, and to endure.