Influence Of R & B Music

Contemporary R&B Musical Influences of this Century Ranging from rock and roll to classical and even to hip-hop, music has been a major influence in the lives of the people of this planet since its creation. In the words of LeQuita C. Harrison, in the article titled, The Affects of R&B Music in Gender&Youth, “Music has been around for centuries captivating the hearts and minds of people all around the world” (2013). Specifically, the music created by contemporary R&B artists in this century has been some of the most influential pieces of art that have been released to the general public. The level of thought, complexity and emotion that is put into many of these pieces is completely staggering and the result is a beautiful piece of lyricism …show more content…
One of the most well-known vocalists, Whitney Houston, used R&B music to share her thoughts and ideas about love. Known mostly for her hits “I Will Always Love You,” and “I Have Nothing,” Whitney often wrote about the periods of heartbreak she went through. In her music, listeners left as though they could feel the same exact emotions as the music legend. Whenever a Whitney song is played, it can make even the strongest willed person think about someone who may or may not have hurt them. By listening to her music, the people of today can often emotionally connect with Whitney, and more times than not, they feel touched by her music on a level even deeper than just emotions. Her use of powerful and meaningful vocals showed exactly what r&b music was originally all about; connecting your inner feeling with music then displaying it to the outside world. The passion she put into her music was extraordinary and because of that passion, listeners everywhere felt that connection to her. Whitney’s music had the power to touch souls. Her songs were like an emotional tapestry being wound by a master weaver. She knew exactly what words to use, and in what specific order those words would have to go in, in order to get a specific response from an audience. Even though her career was not as long as many other similar artists, Whitney Houston will be forever in the hearts of billions of people in this world and, even though her …show more content…
The One and Only. Michael Jackson had his humble beginnings as a member of the band The Jackson 5, before he eventually began his solo career. His slick dance moves and voice like silk are two of the many attributes Michael had that many will never forget. From ballads like “Heal the World” and “Human Nature” to funky dance hits like “Thriller” and “Billie Jean,” Michael always knew how to work a crowd. He had the ability to put anyone who would listen to his music, in a trance; having them focus on his music, and his music alone. This is a very important quality for an r&b artist; being able to captivate an audience, either through your music, or your performance. His ability to command an audience is one trait not many artists of today have. Not only could he put on a show live, but his music was and is still being played on many radio stations for the general public to enjoy. A master songwriter and choreographer, Michael Jackson used his music to pursue many different political and social agendas throughout his career. In r&b music, the feeling and emotions must be conveyed through the music and the performance. Michael’s use of slick dance moves and catchy vocals definitely got his emotions across. Michael often used his influence on people for the greater good; spreading awareness to racial inequality in America and many other controversial issues. For example, Michael wore a glove on one of his hands, at every single performance, to bring awareness