The 90s was a decade that brought us some of the most iconic and talented male R&B artists in the music industry. These artists shaped the sound of R&B during that era and continue to influence the genre today. From smooth ballads to upbeat tracks, their music resonated with audiences worldwide.
One of the most prominent names in 90s R&B is R. Kelly. Known for his soulful voice and captivating performances, R. Kelly dominated the charts with hits like ‘I Believe I Can Fly’ and ‘Ignition (Remix)’. His unique blend of R&B and hip-hop elements earned him a dedicated fanbase and numerous accolades.
Another legendary artist from the 90s is Usher. Starting his career as a teenager, Usher quickly became known for his smooth vocals and impressive dance moves. Songs like ‘You Make Me Wanna…’ and ‘Nice & Slow’ showcased his versatility as an artist and cemented his status as an R&B icon.
One of the pioneers of the New Jack Swing sound, Keith Sweat was a force to be reckoned with in the 90s. With his signature raspy voice, Sweat delivered hits like ‘Twisted’ and ‘Nobody’. His sensual lyrics and soulful delivery made him a favorite among R&B fans.
Maxwell is another artist who left a lasting impact on 90s R&B. With his velvety smooth voice and neo-soul sound, Maxwell brought a refreshing and sophisticated vibe to the genre. Songs like ‘Sumthin’ Sumthin” and ‘Ascension (Don’t Ever Wonder)’ showcased his incredible vocal range and songwriting skills.
Boyz II Men, a group consisting of Nathan Morris, Wanya Morris, Shawn Stockman, and Michael McCary, dominated the 90s R&B scene with their harmonious vocals and emotional ballads. Hits like ‘End of the Road’ and ‘I’ll Make Love to You’ topped the charts and earned them multiple Grammy Awards.
Lastly, we cannot forget about Brian McKnight. Known for his smooth ballads and heartfelt lyrics, McKnight’s songs like ‘Back at One’ and ‘Anytime’ became anthems for love and romance. His soulful voice and impeccable vocal range solidified his place as one of the top male R&B artists of the 90s.
These are just a few of the many male R&B artists who left an indelible mark on the music industry during the 90s. Their contributions to the genre continue to be celebrated and their music continues to inspire new generations of R&B artists. The 90s was truly a golden era for R&B, and these artists played a significant role in shaping its sound and influencing future generations.
