Nu Soul: A Groovy History

Nu soul, a subgenre of soul music, emerged in the mid-1990s, blending the classic soul sound with contemporary influences like jazz, hip-hop, and electronic music.

A Soulful Renaissance

After the golden age of soul in the 1960s and 70s, the genre experienced a lull in the 80s and early 90s. Nu soul represented a revival, infusing classic soul with new energy and modern sensibilities.

Key Players

Some of the key artists who helped shape the sound of nu soul include:

Erykah Badu: Known for her smooth vocals, introspective lyrics, and eclectic style. Fun fact: Badu has a bachelor’s degree in theatre arts and started her career as a stand-up comedian.
D’Angelo: A soulful singer-songwriter known for his powerful vocals and jazzy influences. Fun fact: D’Angelo’s real name is Michael Eugene Archer, and he studied saxophone at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts.
Maxwell: Known for his smooth, sensual vocals and his ability to blend R&B, soul, and jazz. Fun fact: Maxwell was discovered by the legendary Teddy Riley, who also worked with artists like Bobby Brown and Blackstreet.
The Roots: A Philadelphia-based hip-hop group with a strong soul influence. They gained popularity through their legendary “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon” house band. Fun fact: The Roots’ drummer, Questlove, is a self-proclaimed “food nerd” and has written a book about soul food.

Beyond the Music

Nu soul wasn’t just a musical movement; it also encompassed a cultural shift. It celebrated individuality, spirituality, and social consciousness.

Legacy and Influence

Nu soul continues to inspire new generations of artists and has heavily influenced contemporary R&B and neo-soul. Its blend of soulful grooves, modern sensibilities, and introspective lyrics remains a testament to the enduring power of soul music.

A Groovy Ride

Nu soul offers a unique blend of retro soul, contemporary sounds, and introspective lyrics. It’s a groovy ride that celebrates individuality, spirituality, and the timeless power of soul music.