Lecture Notes: The State of Male R&B

Introduction

• Discussion on the current state of male R&B music.
• Concern over the decline of traditional R&B elements in male performances.
• Historical focus on women in pop and R&B due to industry biases.
• Male R&B perceived as "soulless" and lacking in vulnerability.

Historical Context of R&B

• Originated in the 1940s-50s, blending jazz, blues, gospel.
• Early influential male artists: Ray Charles, Marvin Gaye, Michael Jackson.
• 1980s shift in sound, integrating pop, soul, funk.
• New Jack Swing era in late 80s/early 90s, merging hip-hop and R&B.

Evolution of Male R&B

• Notable artists through decades: Usher, Ne-Yo, Chris Brown.
• Transition to more hip-hop influenced R&B in the 2000s.
• Decreased focus on vulnerability and vocal strength in contemporary times.

Issues in Contemporary Male R&B

• Lack of passion and vulnerability in lyrics and vocals.
• Influence of hip-hop leading to more braggadocious and objectifying themes.
• Decline in artists who dance and perform with "soul".
• Overuse of autotune, lack of live vocal authenticity.

Cultural Influences

• Toxic masculinity and "f-boy" culture's impact on music themes.
• Shift from love-focused, vulnerable R&B to more self-centered, brash themes.
• Hip-hop's influence making R&B lyrics more sexual and less metaphorical.

Current State and Artist Comparisons

• Artists like Bryson Tiller and Brent Fiaz leading current trends.
• Mainstream R&B perceived as lacking originality.
• Past R&B artists used metaphor and cleverness in lyrics more effectively.

Conclusion

• Traditional R&B may not return, but reflection on its roots is important.
• Suggestions for listening to alternative artists who maintain traditional elements (e.g., Durand Bernarr, Lucky Daye).
• Encouragement to explore non-mainstream R&B for variety.

Additional Notes

• Invitation to discuss women in R&B in future discussions.
• Call to support artists pushing boundaries and exploring varied themes.