About our R&B news
Latest news on R&B (rhythm and blues, also written RnB), a genre of popular music that began in the United States in the 1940s, covering singers, albums, singles, tours, awards and the artists shaping modern soul and neo-soul.
R&B grew from African-American communities and drew on blues, jazz and gospel. It is known for expressive vocals, strong grooves and emotional storytelling about love, struggle and joy. Its sound moved from jump blues and early soul to Motown, funk, quiet storm and today's contemporary R&B.
Contemporary R&B now covers a wide range of styles, including neo-soul and alternative R&B, and it often blends with hip hop, pop and electronic music. Debate continues over how the genre is defined, how streaming has changed its audience and how it is represented at major awards such as the Grammys. Collaborations with rappers, producers and songwriters are common and shape the sound of new releases.
R&B is closely tied to Black culture and identity. Its singers have given voice to love, protest and celebration, and its songs soundtrack weddings, nights out and family gatherings. Live shows, festivals and tours keep fans close to the artists they love.
The term "rhythm and blues" was popularised in the late 1940s by Jerry Wexler, who was working in the music trade press, as a more respectful label for Black popular music. James Brown, Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder helped define the sound, and later stars such as Whitney Houston, Mary J. Blige, Usher, Alicia Keys, Beyonce, Rihanna and SZA carried it forward. R&B has also influenced rock and roll, funk, hip hop and pop.
Our NewsNow feed gathers the latest R&B and RnB headlines in one place, from new albums and singles to tour announcements, chart news, awards and interviews with the singers, songwriters and producers behind the music. Follow the world of soul, neo-soul and contemporary R&B as it develops.