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Music genre

Alternative R&B

Alternative R&B is a music genre that emerged in Canada and United States in the 2000s. It is usually classed as a form of contemporary R&B. Explore key artists and related styles.

About Alternative R&B

Alternative R&B is a music genre that emerged in Canada and United States in the 2000s. It is usually classed as a form of contemporary R&B.

Artists closely associated with the genre include Selena Gomez, Zayn Malik, Travis Scott, Donald Glover, Willow Smith and SZA.

From Wikipedia

Alternative R&B (also referred to as alt-R&B, indie R&B, and originally known as PBR&B, hipster R&B, emo R&B, or R-Neg-B) is a term used by music journalists to describe a stylistic alternative to contemporary R&B that began in the mid 2000s and came to prominence with musical artists such as Frank Ocean, Khalid, SZA, Summer Walker, Jhené Aiko, Brent Faiyaz, Zayn Malik, Tyler, the Creator, Steve Lacy, Childish Gambino, Miguel, Drake, The Weeknd, Kehlani, Tinashe, Bryson Tiller, PartyNextDoor, Tory Lanez, 6lack, and others. It is considered to be "more progressive and diverse" than its mainstream counterpart.

Genre family tree

Parent genres (↑) and subgenres (↓) of Alternative R&B.

Key artists

  • Selena Gomez
  • Zayn Malik
  • Travis Scott
  • Donald Glover
  • Willow Smith
  • SZA
  • Janelle Monáe
  • Alessia Cara
  • Common
  • Joji

Related genres

Questions people ask

Real questions from the Stack Exchange community – follow a link to read the discussion.

Frequently asked questions

What is Alternative R&B?

Alternative R&B is a music genre that emerged in Canada and United States in the 2000s. It is usually classed as a form of contemporary R&B.

Where and when did Alternative R&B originate?

Alternative R&B originated in Canada and United States in the 2000s.

Who are famous Alternative R&B artists?

Selena Gomez, Zayn Malik, Travis Scott, Donald Glover, Willow Smith and SZA.

Sources & credits