Rhythm and blues, commonly known as R&B, has been one of the most influential music genres in the world for decades. The early 2000s was a particularly vibrant era for female R&B artists, seeing stars like Anita Baker and others rise to prominence.
These talented women have left an indelible mark on the industry, influencing countless artists and fans worldwide with their originality, creativity, and longevity. This article dives into the stories of 20 such artists who shaped the R&B music scene in the early 2000s.
Beyoncé
American singer, songwriter, and actress Beyoncé has been a key player in the R&B genre since the late 90s as a part of Destiny’s Child. However, her influence skyrocketed in the early 2000s with her solo career.
Her debut solo album, “Dangerously in Love” (2003), was a commercial success, debuting at number one on the US Billboard 200 chart. With her powerful vocals and dynamic performances, Beyoncé has become one of the most influential artists of the 21st century.
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Anita Baker
American singer-songwriter Anita Baker is a legend in the R&B world. Known as “The Songstress,” her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics have resonated with fans for decades.
Her 1986 album “Rapture” was certified five times platinum and featured the Grammy-winning single “Sweet Love.” Baker’s influence continued into the early 2000s, with her 2004 album “My Everything” reaching the top 5 on the Billboard R&B chart. Her works have enhanced the continued growth of Anita Baker’s net worth.
Rihanna
Barbadian singer, songwriter, and actress Rihanna has been a dominant force in the R&B world since her debut in 2005. Her 2007 album “Good Girl Gone Bad” marked her transition into the R&B genre and produced the international hit “Umbrella.”
Since then, Rihanna has released numerous R&B hits, including “Take a Bow” and “Only Girl (In the World).” Her distinctive vocal style and edgy image have made her one of the most influential female artists of the early 2000s.
Sade Adu
British-Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress Sade Adu, known mononymously as Sade, took the R&B scene by storm in the early 2000s.
Despite having started her career in the mid-80s, her influence remained strong in the new millennium. Her 2000 album “Lovers Rock” went multi-platinum, and after a 10-year hiatus, she returned in 2010 with the Grammy Award-winning album “Soldier of Love”. Sade’s soothing voice and timeless songs have earned her a place among the R&B greats.
Toni Braxton
American singer-songwriter and actress Toni Braxton is a powerhouse in the R&B world. Her self-titled debut album, released in 1993, sold over 10 million copies and earned her a Grammy for Best New Artist.
Braxton’s music continued to top the charts in the early 2000s, with her 2000 album “The Heat” earning her another Grammy. With her distinctive sultry vocal blend of R&B, pop, and soul, Braxton has solidified her status as one of the all-time R&B greats.
Alicia Keys
American singer-songwriter and pianist Alicia Keys burst onto the R&B scene in the early 2000s with her debut album “Songs in A Minor.”
The album, which featured Keys’ impressive vocal abilities and piano skills, sold over 12 million copies worldwide and earned her five Grammy Awards. With hits like “Fallin'” and “If I Ain’t Got You,” Keys has left an undeniable mark on the R&B genre.
Mary J. Blige
Known as the “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul,” American singer, songwriter, and actress Mary J. Blige has been a force to be reckoned with in the R&B world since the early 90s.
However, her influence remained strong in the early 2000s, with her 2001 album “No More Drama” earning her a Grammy. Over her career, Blige has won nine Grammy Awards and has sold over 50 million albums worldwide.
Roberta Flack
American singer-songwriter and pianist Roberta Flack has been a staple in the R&B genre since the late 60s. However, her influence remained strong into the early 2000s.
Known for her beautiful, soulful ballads, Flack is the first artist to win the Grammy Award for Record of the Year in two consecutive years. Her timeless hits, such as “Killing Me Softly with His Song” and “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” continue to resonate with fans worldwide.
Natalie Cole
American singer-songwriter and actress Natalie Cole, daughter of the legendary Nat King Cole, was one of the most influential R&B artists of the early 2000s.
Her 2002 album “Ask a Woman Who Knows” was nominated for three Grammy Awards, including Best Jazz Vocal Album. Cole’s powerful voice and commanding stage presence earned her nine Grammy Awards over her career.
Donna Summer
Donna Summer, also known as the “Queen of Disco,” was a powerhouse in the R&B and disco scenes from the 70s through to the early 2000s.
Her influence in the early 2000s was particularly notable, with her 2008 album “Crayons” reaching the top 20 on the Billboard 200 chart. Summer’s timeless hits, including “Hot Stuff” and “Last Dance,” have solidified her status as an R&B and disco legend.
Final Thoughts
The early 2000s was a golden age for female R&B artists, with stars such as Anita Baker and others reshaping the genre with their unique creativity, incredible talent, and admirable longevity. These artists have not only left a lasting impact on the R&B genre but have also paved the way for future generations of female artists. Their influence continues to resonate in the music industry and their timeless music continues to inspire fans and artists alike.
