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[[File:Big_Joe_Turner_Rock_and_Roll_Revue_Apollo_Theater_1955.jpg|Big Joe Turner Rock and Roll Revue Apollo Theater 1955|thumb]] [[File:Louis_Jordan,_New_York,_N.Y.,_ca._July_1946_(William_P._Gottlieb_04721).jpg|Louis Jordan, New York, N.Y., ca. July 1946 (William P. Gottlieb 04721)|thumb|left]] [[File:Habanera_cut-time.jpg|Habanera cut-time|thumb|left]] [[File:Fats_Domino_1956.png|Fats Domino 1956|thumb]] [[File:Mardi_gras_in_new_orleans.tif|Mardi gras in new orleans|thumb]] [[File:Clave_in_cut-time.tiff|Clave in cut-time|thumb]] '''Rhythm and blues''' ('''R&B''') is a genre of popular [[music]] that originated in [[African American]] communities in the 1940s. It combines elements of [[jazz]], [[gospel music|gospel]], and [[blues]], reflecting the diverse musical and cultural influences on African American communities. R&B has significantly influenced the development of other music genres, including [[rock and roll]], [[soul music|soul]], and [[funk]]. Over the decades, R&B has evolved, incorporating new styles and technologies, and remains a popular and influential genre in the global music scene.

==History==
The term "rhythm and blues" was coined in 1947 by [[Jerry Wexler]] when he was working as a journalist at ''Billboard'' magazine. The term was used to designate upbeat popular music performed by African American artists that combined jazz and blues. In its early years, R&B was primarily dance music that emphasized a strong backbeat and groove, appealing to a young audience.

During the 1950s and 1960s, R&B laid the groundwork for [[rock and roll]]. Artists like [[Chuck Berry]] and [[Little Richard]] came to prominence during this time, blending R&B with other styles to create rock and roll. The 1960s also saw the rise of [[Motown Records]], a Detroit-based record label that produced a string of hits by artists such as [[The Supremes]], [[Marvin Gaye]], and [[Stevie Wonder]]. Motown's polished sound and emphasis on strong melodies and harmonies helped R&B reach a wider audience.

In the 1970s, R&B evolved into [[soul music]] and [[funk]], with artists like [[James Brown]] and [[Sly and the Family Stone]] leading the way. This era introduced a more complex rhythm and a greater emphasis on the bassline.

The 1980s and 1990s saw the emergence of [[contemporary R&B]], which blended R&B with [[pop music|pop]], [[hip hop]], and [[electronic music]]. Artists like [[Michael Jackson]], [[Whitney Houston]], and [[Prince]] dominated the charts with their innovative sounds. This period also saw the rise of [[New Jack Swing]], a subgenre that fused R&B with hip hop beats.

In the 21st century, R&B continues to evolve, with artists incorporating elements of [[trap music|trap]], [[EDM]], and other contemporary sounds. Artists like [[Beyoncé]], [[Frank Ocean]], and [[The Weeknd]] have pushed the boundaries of the genre, maintaining its relevance in the modern music landscape.

==Characteristics==
R&B music is characterized by its use of rhythm, typically featuring a prominent backbeat or groove. The genre often emphasizes the bassline and uses a wide range of instruments, including [[electric guitar]], [[bass guitar]], [[drums]], [[piano]], and [[saxophone]]. Vocals are a central element of R&B, with artists often showcasing a wide vocal range and the ability to convey deep emotion.

==Influence==
R&B has had a profound influence on the development of other music genres. Its impact can be seen in the rhythmic and vocal styles of rock and roll, soul, funk, and hip hop. R&B has also played a significant role in breaking down racial barriers in the music industry, bringing African American culture and music to a broader audience.

==See Also==
* [[Soul music]]
* [[Funk]]
* [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]]
* [[Rock and roll]]

[[Category:Music genres]]
[[Category:African-American music]]
[[Category:Rhythm and blues]]

Rhythm and blues - Revision history

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