The history of R&B music, emerging trends of today, and future prospects
Rhythm and Blues Music History
The term "rhythm and blues" (R&B) originated in the 1940s to describe African American secular music, replacing the term "race music." It included styles like boogie woogie, swing, jazz, and blues, evolving into a genre that combined pop, gospel, blues, and jazz with a strong backbeat. R&B emerged after World War II, characterized by small bands emphasizing rhythmic drive and emotional vocal delivery.