Neo-Soul - Learn about the Soul Music Sub genre at music-cd

Neo Soul

Neo soul is a subgenre of soul music that emerged in the 1990s, blending traditional soul music with elements of hip hop, jazz, and R&B.

It is characterized by its use of live instrumentation, socially conscious lyrics, and a return to the organic sound of classic soul music.

Here is a brief overview of the history of neo soul:

  • Neo soul emerged in the 1990s, as a response to the slick, highly produced sound of contemporary R&B music. Artists like D'Angelo, Erykah Badu, and Maxwell emerged, each with their own unique take on the soul sound.
  • Neo soul artists drew on the rich history of soul music, blending elements of classic soul with contemporary hip hop and jazz influences. The result was a sound that was both timeless and contemporary, with a focus on live instrumentation and a return to the organic sound of classic soul music.
  • Neo soul artists also brought a socially conscious message to their music, with lyrics that addressed issues like racism, poverty, and social injustice. This gave the genre a political edge that set it apart from the more mainstream R&B music of the time.
  • Neo soul reached its peak in popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s, with artists like Jill Scott, Angie Stone, and Musiq Soulchild achieving mainstream success. However, the genre has continued to evolve and grow, with new artists like H.E.R. and Snoh Aalegra carrying on the neo soul tradition.
  • Today, neo soul is considered a classic genre, and its influence can be heard in a wide range of contemporary music. Its focus on live instrumentation and socially conscious lyrics has had a significant impact on other genres, including hip hop, R&B, and jazz.

Overall, neo soul is a genre that has had a significant impact on the history of soul music. Its focus on live instrumentation, socially conscious lyrics, and a return to the organic sound of classic soul music has inspired new generations of musicians and fans alike.

Top 20 Neo Soul artists that have made significant contributions to the genre: 

  1. D'Angelo
  2. Erykah Badu
  3. Maxwell
  4. Jill Scott
  5. Musiq Soulchild
  6. India.Arie
  7. Angie Stone
  8. Anthony Hamilton
  9. Lauryn Hill
  10. Raheem DeVaughn
  11. Leela James
  12. Jill Barber
  13. John Legend
  14. Alicia Keys
  15. Raphael Saadiq
  16. Ledisi
  17. Marsha Ambrosius
  18. Chrisette Michele
  19. H.E.R.
  20. Snoh Aalegra

This list is by no means exhaustive, and there are many other talented Neo Soul artists that have contributed to the genre over the years.