alt r&b

The Rise of the Rebels: A Brief History of Alt R&B

Alt R&B, like a rebellious teenager with a soulful voice and a penchant for the unconventional, emerged in the late 90s, carving its own lane within the polished world of contemporary R&B. While classic R&B often focused on romantic themes, smooth vocals, and predictable structures, alt R&B embraced a more experimental, introspective, and often socially conscious approach.

The Genesis:

The seeds of alt R&B can be traced back to the 90s, with artists like D’Angelo, Erykah Badu, and Maxwell pioneering a blend of soul, funk, and jazz influences. Their music challenged the prevailing commercial R&B sound, introducing elements of improvisation, raw emotion, and lyrical depth.

The 2000s: A New Wave of Soul:

The 2000s saw a new generation of artists, including The Weeknd, Frank Ocean, and SZA, take the torch and propel alt R&B to new heights. These artists pushed boundaries, incorporating elements of electronic music, hip hop, and even rock, while retaining their signature soulfulness.

A Soundtrack for the Millennial Soul:

Alt R&B resonated deeply with a generation grappling with the anxieties and complexities of the digital age. The genre provided an emotional outlet, tackling themes of love, loss, identity, and social injustice with an honesty and vulnerability that resonated with listeners.

Funny Facts:

• The Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights” was inspired by 80s synth-pop, a far cry from traditional R&B, but somehow, it became a global phenomenon.
• Frank Ocean, known for his introspective lyrics, once tweeted a meme about not knowing how to make a grilled cheese.
• SZA, a self-proclaimed introvert, famously prefers to perform with a microphone stand, even in intimate settings.

The Future is Now:

Alt R&B continues to evolve, with a new generation of artists like Summer Walker, Jhené Aiko, and 6LACK continuing to push the boundaries of the genre. The future of alt R&B promises to be as diverse and exciting as its past, blending soulful vocals with innovative production and heartfelt lyrics that resonate with a global audience.

So, next time you’re looking for music that speaks to your soul, dive into the world of alt R&B. You might just discover your new favorite artist, and maybe even learn a funny fact or two along the way.