True soulfulness can be morphed, re-structured and layered, but never lost.
Alternative R&B is accomplishing just that. Artists such as Frank Ocean, Jhene Aiko, Miguel and the Weeknd seem to have taken the classically smooth feeling of the genre and combined it with various electronic and independent influences to reflect a fresh generation. Thanks to the impact of these artists, many independent artists have been inspired to make their own mark on this emerging sub-genre.
The term R&B has undergone a notable amount of change and re-definition since its conception. Its alternative offspring is no exception. Some might say the use of alternative R&B as a descriptor for this type of music is in fact highly undesirable and off-putting, as argued in a recent Fader magazine article.
While acknowledging the sensitivity of the name is highly relevant and necessary, the fact is that the artists who are said to fall within this genre are producing innovative and norm-bending work that certainly deserves to be recognized. No matter how one prefers to label this revolutionary sound, it is clear that the artists who fall under this genre are accomplishing feats that transcend the boundaries that any label or name could establish.
Photo courtesy of Def Jam.Frank Ocean, for instance, stepped onto the solo scene in 2011 with a mixtape that cemented him in the music world almost immediately through his unique sound and lyrical thoughtfulness.
Ocean's smooth vocals, piercing lyrics and moody vibe have helped him retain a dedicated fan base that still eagerly awaits the release of his coy second album.
It is clear that Ocean has had a huge impact on the nature and growth of the new easygoing, electronic mixture that has been re-shaping modern R&B in recent years. Still, he retains a strong connection to the classic, simple beats and full rhythms that have made R&B so timeless.
Although Ocean's impact has been far-reaching and profound (he's already won two Grammys in addition to a handful of other awards), perhaps it's artists like Jhene Aiko who have had more of an influence on the ethereal feel of much of today's alternative R&B.
Aiko, who contributed vocals for R&B group B2K before beginning her solo projects, brings a fresh sound to the scene with her high vocal range and reflective tones. Her music uses vocal and rhythmic layering in a way that makes it easy for her to create moody and nostalgic tones.
This results in light and airy songs without sacrificing a distinction that separates her from other female R&B singers like Alicia Keys, even though she may not get as much radio play.
Independent artists such as Majid Jordan and Jesse Boykins III have also been re-defining the perception of R&B, helping the genre shift from one consisting of mainly smooth vocals, catchy hooks and simple melodies to one of with more eclectic and ethereal tones. In fact, one might say that the innovation has occurred through the diversification of rhythm and added weight of bass without sacrificing the genre's emphasis on crisp, strong vocals.
Jordan, who partially produced and was featured on Drake's 2013 hit "Hold On We're Going Home" has focused on combining a heavy bass with strong, yet distant, vocal harmonies. Boykins, on the other hand, has created an easygoing sound that combines a deep bass with light vocals and organic melodies.
The Weeknd, a highly provocative newcomer who can be heard alongside Ariana Grande in "Love Me Harder" or in his new single "Often," seems to be following Aiko and Ocean's efforts to bring this modernized R&B sound to the mainstream and paving the way for people like Jordan and Boykins to create a lasting influence with their unique sound.
The Weeknd, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, blends suggestive lyrics with a deep, expansive tone, which has served him well so far in both the mainstream and underground R&B scenes. In fact, The Weeknd will be playing the set directly before guitar icon Jack White at this year's upcoming Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival.
Photo courtesy of RCA Records.Yet another influential pioneer of the new age of R&B is Miguel, whose classic, confident voice has served him well in his musical evolution since 2010's "All I Want Is You."
In a true testament to his talent and artistry, he has brilliantly managed to maintain the same passionate vocal structure while shifting into a slightly more energized, rousing rhythm through 2012's "Kaleidoscope Dream."
Miguel's work is an excellent example of the pure innovation of the genre; it doesn't allow its new electronic and pop influences to overcome the clarity of the vocals, but rather enhances the crispness of the classic R&B voice and makes it more intricately powerful.
Photo courtesy of Fader Label.However, not all alternative R&B artists are piling the electronica and heavy bass into their music; people like Yuna are creating a new easygoing vibe for the genre that offers a refreshing sense of brightness.
Although Boykins can be heard doing something similar in tracks such as "I Wish," Yuna's sound as a whole consists of simple beats and crisp vocals that shine powerfully in her self-titled 2012 album.
Although her recent album, "Nocturnal," offers a bit more of a dance vibe, she maintains a positivity and energy in her work that will surely serve her well as she continues her journey through the industry.
These artists may be producing work that is notably distinct from recent predecessors such as Usher and Mariah Carey, but the heart of the genre remains the same. In spite of the modern innovations that are clearly growing more popular among artists of this ever-evolving genre, the beauty of R&B as a strong, passionate testament to human creativity and emotion has not been lost.
Tell the reporter your Frank Ocean album release date predictions at celina.jimenez@asu.edu or on twitter @lina_lauren.
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