Genre: RHYTHM 'N' BLUES

Like the name implies, Rhythm ‘n’ Blues (“R&B” or “RnB”) is the powerful combination of two old music genres. Gospel (the Rhythm) on one hand, which provides an infectious groovy tempo that was already noticeable in its early barbershop days with handclapping and rhythmical vibrating voices. Blues on the other hand, which delivers warm chords and rich bass. “Gospel & Blues” combines diverse musical elements and is therefore a highly flexible hybrid genre, forming a bridge between many super-genres. R&B can be the middle ground between Blues and Rock, but also between Rap and Pop or Gospel and House, which makes it one of the most accessible music genres.

The cornerstone aspect of all R&B is the backbeat: the 2nd and 4th beat of each bar becomes accentuated, creating a strong cadence. Backbeat makes R&B highly danceable, eventually leading to Disco and the concept of nightlife dance culture and clubbing. R&B is also known for more complex rhythms and drums; the introduction of the breakbeat or a high emphasis on percussion. Instrumentation follows out of the basic Blues set-up: guitar, bass, and drums. Yet almost always one or more instruments are added, selected by their ability to create a richer sound and radiate a warm, cozy feeling: violins, synth, vibraphone, Hammond organ, or brass horns.