So, who’s the best R&B singer today?
May 24, 2010 No Comments
We all know that Mary J. Blige is the modern day prototype for R&B singers today. And that she credits Anita Baker with making her wanting to sing. That goes without saying and is not up for discussion.
But who got next?
And in the case of several radio heatseekers today, who got now?
When it comes to the heavyweights, Beyonce and Rihanna are pretty much well ahead of everyone else. Don’t believe me? Check the charts, and more importantly, record sales. This girls move mad units.
As for the accolades and titles such as “most slept on” and “up and comers,” those are all debatable: Are record sales more important, or live show receipts? How about Youtube views? There’s so many barometers.
Some artists have been around for a while and have failed to make a big difference, too. What about Monica, who stepped on the scene in the late 1990s and has enjoyed meddling success from time to time but never ruled the charts?
What about Brandy, who practically owned the late 1990s and had her own TV show to boot?
What about Ashanti, who’s hooks have become legendary club chants in some parts of the world?
What does it take to make it as a female R&B singer today, besides vocal chords of steel?
Here’s the acoustic version of Melanie Fiona’s “It Kills Me.”
And here is Keri Hilson’s acoustic version of “Knock You Down”
And here’s Alicia Keys singing “If I Aint Got You” live
