R&B artists had an exceptional year. Usher took to EDM and experimented with soulful beats while others stuck to its soulful core.
Marcus Canty made waves with his debut single “Won’t Make a Fool Out of You”, while Brandy returned after taking time away with Two Eleven and gave fans her signature vocals on songs such as the flirtatiously fun “Put It Down”, featuring Chris Brown.
Marcus Canty
Marcus Canty impressed record producer L.A. Reid upon placing fourth on Season One of The X Factor USA and was promptly signed by Epic Records for release of an EP entitled This…Is Marcus Canty. His first single quickly made waves across social media as his debut release went viral.
The title track of “Everyone Needs Success, But Nobody Should Lose Who They Are” by rapper Wale serves as an anthem for anyone striving to attain greatness without giving up who they are in pursuit. Filled with metaphors about money and fame while sending an inspiring message.
Marcus Canty will leave your audience inspired and engaged with his powerful vocal performance at your event! Additionally, his charismatic personality allows for interaction amongst attendees; definitely make him part of your live entertainment lineup! He is truly one not to be missed!
Ciara
Ciara is an accomplished singer-songwriter who has made her mark in the music industry with hit singles such as Goodies and One Woman Army. Additionally, she serves as an actress and philanthropist supporting the ‘Why Not You? Foundation.
Ciara was born in Fort Hood, Texas, and moved with her family to Atlanta as she was still young. There she formed Hearsay but it soon disbanded before signing with a record label. Ciara’s debut album Goodies achieved third place on Billboard 200 charts and certified platinum status within the United States.
Basic Instinct was her latest album released in 2010, and showcased her urban roots. It was an outstanding commercial success and featured collaborations with producers Jazze Pha and Lil Jon – helping Ciara expand her musical style and sound.
Estelle
Estelle has taken her journey from West London MC to Grammy award-winning international artist with great distinction, making an impressionous debut with 2008’s ‘American Boy,’ featuring Kanye West and an all-star songwriting team including John Legend.
Shine, her debut album released under John Legend’s Homeschool Records and Atlantic Records, quickly cemented her place as an accomplished R&B vocalist while remaining true to her roots.
She continues to push the limits of her musical style and inspire aspiring artists alike. Her latest single ‘Thank You Music’ pays a heartfelt tribute to all those who have helped her along her musical journey, featuring signature vocals layered over soulful melodies and beats for an inspirational yet powerful single track.
Eric Benet
Soulful singer and actor Adam Lambert has created a name for himself with his critically acclaimed albums and captivating live performances onstage.
Benet is currently touring with fellow soul singer Ledisi. In between performances, he spoke to EBONY about their tour, his new album and more.
He recently unveiled an EP called “Duets,” featuring collaborations with artists like Tamar Braxton, Chrisette Michele and LaTocha.
Benet has received considerable backlash for his single “Redbone Girl”, as many viewed it as objectifying black women and objectifying them sexually. While many voiced their outrage towards Benet for being insensitive to black women’s needs and sensitivities. Yet Benet remains undaunted and dedicated to his craft; his most recent album News for You stands as proof.
Keyshia Cole
Keyshia Cole has an unparalleled ability to capture people’s hearts. With powerful vocals and emotive lyrics that reach deep within us all, she stands out amongst her peers. On her latest album ’11:11 Reset’ she explores themes such as growth and self-discovery while subverting traditional R&B/rapper relationships by featuring rappers on some tracks as part of the album’s lineup.
Keyshia sings about her past heartbreaks and finding someone who helped restore her belief in true love again on this smooth track, winning both a Vibe Award in 2005 and an ASCAP award the next year.
Keyshia opens up to Singersroom about her latest album Woman to Woman and working with mentor Ron Fair, as well as discussing R&B music’s current state and what inspires her. Watch below! -Tinashe
Luke James
Luke James was raised in New Orleans and excelled at many artistic disciplines as a child before discovering his true calling as a singer. He wrote for Tyrese and Justin Bieber before debuting with his debut single “I Want You.”
James delivers a genuine sound that feels organic on Museum, his self-titled album. Additionally, it highlights his musical versatility as it incorporates various genres.
Miguel’s ‘Adorn’ quietly percolated through for some time before quickly becoming an irresistibly catchy summer hit. Here he displays his vocal talents while writing emotive love letters that could only come from him – no wonder his sophomore album ‘Kaleidoscope Dream’ made such an impressionful statement about him as an artist in 2012. This track should definitely remain one of your summer must-listens! He should definitely remain one to keep an eye out for in 2021.
RaVaughn Brown
RaVaughn Brown has proven her talent for creating captivating music by releasing “Same Ol’ BS”, her previous single release. Now signed to Ne-Yo’s Compound University label through Columbia Records, Brown presents an incredible mixtape titled Love Always… The Introduction.
The album features captivating, soulful melodies and catchy hooks that speak volumes about her work ethic and talent. From start to finish it’s evident she poured all her heart and soul into creating this body of work.
With a sound that recalls classic R&B and soul, this album will leave an everlasting impression. Check out her singles “Better Be Good”, featuring Wale, and “Best Friend”, an ode to friendship. Same Ol’ BS Music should be on every fan of R&B music’s playlist – enjoy listening!
R. Kelly
Kelly remains one of the most acclaimed R&B artists of all time, selling over 75 million albums and singles worldwide. His music was well received both by audiences and critics alike and was beloved among his many followers for its timeless soul stylings and youthful honesty.
With his 2010 album Love Letter, Kelly decided to move in a traditional direction that differed significantly from his club-sleaze style of earlier work. He combined Philadelphia soul and Chicago stepping to create an album exploring all aspects of love.
Unfortunately, he quickly found himself embroiled in a sexual assault scandal when one of his former assistants accused him of sexually abusing her and these allegations were confirmed by police resulting in high profile legal cases that caused many radio stations and fans to refuse his music.
Elle Varner
Gabrielle Serene Varner (born Los Angeles) started playing flute and piano as a child and shortly thereafter writing music. Both of her parents, both published songwriters and producers (Mikelyn Roderick sang backup vocals for Barry White while Jimmy Varner worked with Kool & The Gang), nurtured her talent; eventually earning her admission into New York University’s Clive Davis Department of Recorded Music.
Perfectly Imperfect was released in 2012 and featured the singles “Only Wanna Give It to You,” featuring J Cole, and “Refill.” Her relatable experiences dealing with body image issues and relationships garnered her a loyal fan base and she has even been featured on various television campaigns such as MTV Buzzworthy and BET Music Matters.
Vivian Green
Vivian Green’s unique combination of soulful vocals and emotive lyrics has long mesmerized audiences. Hailing from Philadelphia, she began as backup singer for Jill Scott before making waves during the neo-soul wave of the 2000s.
Green’s debut Emotional Rollercoaster in 2002 marked her entry into neo-soul’s ascendency; subsequent album Beautiful proved more successful; nevertheless it failed to become a breakthrough hit.
Green returned with an adult and sensual sound on Vivian in 2018, which highlighted her newly found sense of musicality and garnered many positive reviews from critics. By 2020, Anything Out There showcased both Green’s growth and creativity on an album filled with R&B tracks; she clearly had been listening to fans’ requests and meeting them head on.