alternative r&b

Alternative R&B: A Groovy Trip Through the Genre

Alternative R&B, often called “alt-R&B,” is a music genre that sprung from the fertile ground of contemporary R&B in the late 2000s and early 2010s. It’s a vibrant fusion of traditional R&B with influences from indie rock, pop, electronic music, and hip-hop.

Roots and Influences

The roots of alternative R&B can be traced back to the experimental and eclectic sounds of artists like Erykah Badu, D’Angelo, and Maxwell, who pushed the boundaries of R&B in the 90s. Their blend of soul, funk, and jazz paved the way for a new generation of artists to explore more diverse and unconventional sounds.

Rise of the Alt-R&B Scene

The late 2000s saw the emergence of artists like Frank Ocean, The Weeknd, and James Blake, who brought a fresh, alternative approach to R&B. Ocean’s experimental songwriting and introspective lyrics, The Weeknd’s dark and atmospheric sound, and Blake’s haunting electronic beats helped to define the genre’s early landscape.

Key Characteristics of Alt-R&B

• Experimental Sound: Artists in this genre aren’t afraid to experiment with different sounds and genres, incorporating elements of indie rock, electronic, and hip-hop.
• Introspective Lyrics: The lyrics often delve into personal experiences, relationships, and social issues, with a focus on raw emotion and vulnerability.
• Unconventional Production: Production techniques often feature minimalist arrangements, atmospheric soundscapes, and innovative use of synthesizers and samples.

Funny Facts About Alt-R&B Musicians

• Frank Ocean’s Love for Salad: This Grammy-winning artist is known for his love of salads, even revealing that he once wrote an entire song about his favorite salad.
• The Weeknd’s “Starboy” Era: The Weeknd’s “Starboy” album was inspired by his love for David Bowie and his alter ego, Ziggy Stardust. He even dyed his hair red and adopted a similar persona.
• SZA’s “CTRL” Album Cover: SZA’s second album, “CTRL,” features a photo of her as a child, which is a nod to her struggles with control and self-doubt.

The Future of Alt-R&B

Alternative R&B continues to evolve, with new artists emerging and pushing the boundaries of the genre. The future looks bright for this exciting and dynamic music scene, which continues to capture the hearts and minds of music lovers around the world.