Definition of R&B and information on relevant artists

R&B is the abbreviation of 'Rhythm and Blues'. The genre originated during the 1940s and became popular amongst African Americans. During the 1950s, R&B often had a direct link to Blues music. However during the 1960s R&B music started to involve other elements of other genres such as Electric Blues, Gospel and Soul. In the 1970s, it had then evolved to funk, and was known as conteporary R&B from the 1980s. R&B is now popular worldwide amongst all ethnic backgrounds. Relevant and current artists include Beyonce, Usher, Alicia Keys, Ashanti, Ciara, India Arie, Mary J Blige, Jagged Edge, Justin Timberlake, Musiq Soulchild, R Kelly, Tamia, Mario, Trey Songz, Jason Derulo, Craig David, Monica, Keri Hilson, Chris Brown and many more. Most of these artists are influenced by Michael Jackson, Prince, En Vogue, Stevie Wonder, Mariah Carey, Aaliyah and other R&B artists who have significant success within the R&B music industry. Some songs by relevant artists include: Craig David - Been Around The World Monica - One In A Lifetime Mario - Thinking Of You Some videos by older and influential artists: Mariah Carey - Emotions Aaliyah - The One I Gave My Heart To En Vogue - Giving Him Something He Can Feel