Rhythm and Blues (genre)

Rhythm and Blues (R&B) is a musical genre originating in African American communities in the 1940s. It combines soulful vocals, steady beats, and expressive melodies, often emphasizing themes of love, heartache, and personal resilience. R&B blends elements of jazz, gospel, and blues, evolving over decades into a mainstream sound that influences pop, hip-hop, and soul music. Characterized by smooth, rhythmic, and groove-driven compositions, R&B is known for its emotional depth and vocal richness, making it a versatile and influential genre that continues to shape contemporary music.