AS Media - Genre Research

1. R&B
GENRE RESEARCH
Glenn Barco

2. INTRODUCTION TO R&B
Rhythm & 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 Jazz
And 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.

3. KEY ARTISTS IN MOVEMENT
There 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 Carey
And 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

4. CURRENT ARTISTS
There 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.

5. 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 Recordings
Hidden 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.

6. R&B IN THE MEDIA
There 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.

7. R&B IN THE MEDIA
Radio:
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.

8. PERSONAL PREDICTIONS
Personally 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.