Showstopping Vocals Have Fallen Out of Favor in R&B — Can a New Generation of Stars Bring Them Back?
The genre once defined by dizzying runs and range now seems to prioritize vibes and relatability — but big voices could be making a return.
In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in the R&B genre, with vocal prowess taking a backseat to more understated styles. Singers like Frank Ocean, Jhené Aiko, The Weeknd and Miguel were instrumental in this evolution, prioritizing lyrical relatability and tone over flamboyant vocal displays. This new wave of artists has led to a decline in the traditional, technically virtuosic R&B vocals that once defined the genre.
The emergence of alternative R&B, trap soul, and vibe&B has only further contributed to this trend. Fans have taken notice, with ongoing debates about the state of vocal ability in the music scene. The decline of impressive singing has even been fueled by the fading presence of Black church communities, once vital hubs for nurturing vocal talent and teaching musical discipline.
Though some argue that the decline of vocal prowess is due to a shift in audience preferences, others believe that talented singers are being overlooked by labels and the music industry in favor of artists who prioritize emotional impact over technical skill.
Written by urgent.news from Billboard's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
