“The biggest artistes globally right now are women. I believe Tems and Ayra Starr (Afrobeats) can take women to those heights. The men have done great, but these two can really take us there,” is the submission of a Nigerian X (formerly Twitter) user. With an amazing rollout and other music promotion-related content, these two stars have been able to capture the audience of their fans, majorly Gen-Zs. The same nature applies to the rhythm and blues and the future of R&B.
The genre has seen numerous transformations since its inception in the early 20th century. With each generation, R&B has adapted and evolved, incorporating new sounds, themes, and influences. Today, Gen Z, the cohort born between 1997 and 2012, are exerting a profound influence on the future of R&B, reshaping the genre to reflect their unique experiences, tastes, and technological savvy.
The Future of R&B
Embracing Diversity and Authenticity
One of the hallmarks of Gen Z is their celebration of diversity and demand for authenticity. This generation has grown up in a world that is more connected and culturally diverse than ever before, and they expect their music to reflect that. R&B artists from diverse backgrounds are gaining prominence, bringing a rich tapestry of influences to the genre. Artists like H.E.R., Jorja Smith, and Giveon are celebrated for their ability to blend traditional R&B elements with a contemporary twist, often infusing their music with personal and socio-political narratives.
Gen Z’s preference for authenticity has also led to a resurgence of raw, emotional songwriting in R&B. This generation values artists who are open about their struggles and vulnerabilities, and this is reflected in the deeply personal lyrics that characterise much of today’s R&B music. Artists like Summer Walker and Brent Faiyaz exemplify this trend, with their music often exploring themes of love, heartbreak, and mental health in a candid and relatable manner.
The Role of Technology and Social Media
Gen Z is the first generation to grow up with the internet and social media as integral parts of their lives. This digital fluency has significantly impacted how R&B music is created, distributed, and consumed. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube have become vital for new artists to gain exposure and build a following. Viral challenges and trends on these platforms can catapult a previously unknown artist to stardom almost overnight. For instance, TikTok has been instrumental in the rise of artists like Doja Cat and Khalid, whose songs gained massive popularity through user-generated content.
Streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music have also democratised access to music, allowing Gen Z listeners to explore a vast array of R&B styles and subgenres. This has led to a more eclectic musical taste among young listeners, who are not confined by traditional genre boundaries. As a result, contemporary R&B often incorporates elements from hip-hop, electronic music, and even indie pop, creating a hybrid sound that appeals to Gen Z’s diverse tastes.
Shaping the Sound of R&B
The influence of Gen Z is evident in the evolving sound of R&B. This generation has a penchant for genre-blending and experimentation, leading to innovative musical compositions. The lo-fi, bedroom-produced aesthetic popularised by artists like Steve Lacy and Frank Ocean has become a defining characteristic of modern R&B. These artists often use unconventional production techniques, such as sampling, pitch manipulation, and atmospheric soundscapes, to create a unique auditory experience.
Moreover, the lyrical content of Gen Z-driven R&B reflects the generation’s concerns and experiences. Issues such as mental health, self-identity, and social justice are frequently explored, providing a voice to the generation’s collective consciousness. This introspective and often introspective lyricism resonates deeply with young listeners who seek music that speaks to their lived realities.
Looking Forward
As Gen Z continues to come of age, their influence on R&B will only grow stronger. This generation’s desire for inclusivity, authenticity, and innovation is driving the genre towards new horizons. R&B is becoming more experimental, socially aware, and reflective of the diverse world we live in. As technology continues to evolve, how music is created, shared, and experienced will further transform, with Gen Z at the forefront of these changes.