35 Best Female R&B Singers   


 

“One good thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain.” – Bob Marley  

With smooth melodies, emotional lyrics, and soulful vocals, R&B music is a distinctive and cherished genre in the music industry. There are great R&B musicians, whose voices transcend time, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts and souls.  

Among these icons are female R&B singers, who have consistently captivated audiences with their unparalleled talent, emotive power, and soul-stirring performances. From the resounding echoes of Aretha Franklin’s unforgettable ballads to the fiercely empowering anthems of Beyoncé, these remarkable artists have shaped the landscape of R&B, cementing their rightful places as icons and trailblazers. 

Singing songs of love, heartbreak, empowerment, and resilience, these musical powerhouses effortlessly enchant audiences worldwide and continue to inspire generations. These women have shaped the very essence of R&B music, standing as pillars of strength, authenticity, and sheer vocal prowess. 

Here are the 35 best female R&B singers. 

1. Whitney Houston 

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Known for her exceptional vocal range and powerful voice, Whitney Elizabeth Houston was one of the greatest R&B singers of our time. She was born in 1963 in Newark, New Jersey, and began singing and playing the piano before her 6th birthday. Whitney was a Grammy award-winning singer, just like her mum before her. 

With her first album in the 80s, this singer had released 7 albums and acted in several movies. I Wanna Dance with Somebody Who Loves Me, Where Do Broken Hearts Go, and I’m Your Baby Tonight were some of her songs. 

She accidentally and tragically drowned in 2012 at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, at the age of 48. She had the ability to convey deep emotions through her music.  

2. Aretha Franklin   

Aretha Franklin was an American singer and pianist who was born on 25th March 1942 in Memphis, Tennessee, and began her career in gospel music. She began releasing albums in the 1960s and had released almost 40 albums in her lifetime. 

Most of her songs were chart-topping hits, making her an iconic figure in the R&B sector. She was highly honored, earning numerous accolades including 18 Grammy Awards, the presidential medal of Freedom, and several Halls of Fame. 

I Say a Little Prayer, You Make Me Feel Like A Natural Woman, and Chain of Fools are some of her songs. Aretha passed on in 2018 in Detroit, Michigan when she was 78 years old. Her voice and musical legacy have had a profound impact on countless artists and continue to resonate with audiences around the world.  

3. Beyoncé 

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Born in 1981 in Houston, Texas, and married to Jay-Z the famous rapper, Beyonce Giselle Knowles-Carter is an award-winning R&B singer who became popular as the lead singer of the group Destiny’s Child. She then went solo and her powerful vocals, captivating stage presence, and strong songwriting skills garnered her critical acclaim and a massive global fan base. 

Run the World (Girls), If I Were a Boy, and Crazy in Love are some of her songs. Beyoncé’s impact goes beyond music, as she is also known for her acting, advocacy work, philanthropy, and empowering messages of feminism, self-love, and cultural pride. 

4. Mariah Carey 

Born in March 1969 in Huntington, New York, Mariah Carey is a vocally talented singer, whose awesome music has solidified her status as one of the most influential and successful artists in the history of R&B music. 

She started releasing music in the 1990s, among them numerous chart-topping hits, and has 15 albums so far. Mariah has sold millions of records and is among the best-selling music artists of all time. Always Be My Baby, All I Want for Christmas Is You, and Heartbreaker are some of her songs.  

5. Mary J. Blige 

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Born in 1971 in the Bronx, New York City, to a musician dad, Mary J. Blige is an award-winning singer who is known as the Queen of R&B. She is a unique and influential artist, who has released many chart-topping songs.  

Some of her songs include Be Without You, Not Gon’ Cry, and Family Affair. She has 15 albums so far and she has won many Grammys plus other awards and honors. 

6. Alicia Keys 

Alicia Keys is an award-winning R&B singer who has released close to 10 successful albums. She was born in 1981 in Manhattan, New York City, and was raised by a strong single mum. She has consistently delivered soulful, thought-provoking music throughout her career, and won numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards. 

If I Ain’t Got You, Empire State of Mind, You Don’t Know My Name, and Girl on Fire are some of her songs. Keys remains a respected and influential artist in the music industry. 

7. Janet Jackson 

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Born in May of 1966 in Gary, Indiana, Janet is an award-winning singer who is well known for her R&B prowess that spans several decades. She is the youngest sister in the renowned Jackson family and M.J. the music icon and King of Pop is her older brother. 

That’s the Way Love Goes, Together Again, and All for You are some of her songs. Throughout her career, she has released numerous chart-topping hits and has received various accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards.  

Janet is known for her impactful performances, dance skills, and contributions to popular culture. 

8. Lauryn Hill 

Famous as a member of The Fugees- the hip-hop group, Lauryn Hill is an R&B singer that was born in May 1975 in East Orange, New Jersey. She is known for her unique music, socially conscious lyrics, and powerful performances.  

Doo Wop (That Thing), Lost Ones, and To Zion are some of her songs. Her debut solo album, ‘The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill’ is one of the greatest albums of all time, and her contributions to music continue to inspire artists and resonate with audiences. 

9. Kelly Rowland 

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Born in 1981 in Atlanta, Georgia, Kelly is an R&B singer and actress who became famous as a member of the girl’s group Destiny’s Child. She went solo and has had a successful career, releasing several solo albums. Stole, Dilemma, and When Love Takes Over are some of her songs. 

Kelly has a versatile musical style, captivating stage presence, powerful vocals, catchy melodies, plus heartfelt lyrics. 

10. Ashanti

Known for her smooth vocals, catchy hooks, and relatable lyrics, Ashanti is a talented singer and songwriter that has released more than 5 albums in the last two decades. Always on Time, Foolish, and Rain on Me are some of her songs. 

She has collaborated with various artists throughout her career and made a significant impact in the R&B genre. She has a nice voice and beautiful music that is mostly about love, relationships, and empowerment.  

11. Jill Scott  

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Jill Scott, who was born in April 1972 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is an R&B singer, poet, and actress who is known for blending jazz, R&B, and spoken word elements into her songs. She has 5 albums out with A Long Walk, Hate on Me, and Cross My Mind being some of her songs. 

This singer has received numerous awards for her soulful and thought-provoking music, and her captivating performances have solidified her place as a respected and influential artist in the music industry. 

12. Toni Braxton 

Born in 1967 in Severn, Maryland in a musical family, Toni Braxton is a rhythm and blues singer who started singing in a group with her sisters. You’re Makin’ Me High, Breathe Again, and Un-Break My Heart are some of her songs as a solo artist. 

Throughout her career, she has released several albums and collaborated with various artists. Braxton’s soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and ability to connect with her audience have made her one of the most celebrated R&B artists of her generation. 

13. Brandy 

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Brandy Rayana Norwood is an American R&B singer and actress, who began her career in the 1990s. She was born in 1979 in Mississippi, but she grew up in California. She is Ray J’s sister and Snoop Dogg’s cousin. She has 7 albums so far.  

Almost Doesn’t Count, Top of the World, and The Boy Is Mine (with Monica) are some of her songs. Brandy mostly sings about love, relationships, and personal growth. She has a powerful voice that has earned her awards in the music industry, including a Grammy. She has acted in several productions too. 

14. Janelle Monáe 

Janelle Monáe is an R&B singer known for her unique blend of musical styles and artistic vision. Born in 1985 in Kansas, Monáe sings beautiful songs that have thought-provoking lyrics and does amazing performances. 

Make Me Feel, Dirty Computer, Tightrope, and Cold War are some of her songs. With her distinctive style and powerful voice, Monáe continues to aspire audiences with her art and messages of inclusivity and empowerment. 

15. Amy Winehouse 

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Amy Winehouse (1983-2011) was an English rhythm and blues singer who had a beautiful voice but sadly died young at 27 years. Her music was amazing and had emotional depth plus detailed performances. She mostly sang about her personal experiences and struggles, allowing listeners to connect with her on a profound level.  

Despite her tragically short career, Amy Winehouse’s impact on music and her artistic legacy remains influential, as her music continues to touch the hearts of many. 

Read facts about Amy Winehouse here. 

16. Deborah Cox 

Deborah Cox is a Canadian singer that is known for her beautiful and powerful voice, plus her contributions to the R&B and dance music genres. Born on July 13, 1974, in Toronto, Canada, Cox has enjoyed success both in her home country and internationally, with numerous chart-topping hits and accolades throughout her career. 

With 5 albums, Nobody’s Supposed to Be Here, We Can’t Be Friends, Same Script-Different Cast, Sentimental and It’s Over Now are some of her songs. 

17. Tina Turner 

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Anna Mae Bullock, popularly known as Tina Turner, was an iconic American-born Swiss singer who was known for her powerful voice, electrifying stage presence, and resilience. She was born in 1939 in Brownsville, Tennessee, but sadly died in May 2023 in Zürich, Switzerland at the age of 83 years.  

Simply the Best, Private Dancer, and What’s Love Got to Do with It are some of her songs. She won very many awards, including multiple Grammys, and had been inducted into several Halls of Fame. Turner’s impact extended beyond her music and served as an inspiration for many artists. 

Read facts about her here.

18. Rihanna  

With her distinctive voice, dynamic stage presence, and boundary-pushing fashion choices, Rihanna, whose full name is Robyn Rihanna Fenty, is a Barbadian R&B singer that is one of the most influential pop stars. Rude Boy, Diamonds, and Four-Five-Seconds are some of her songs. 

She sings chart-topping anthems and has sold over two hundred million records plus released close to 10 albums. Rihanna is a versatile artist that experiments with different sounds and styles. Her music often explores themes of love, relationships, and empowerment. 

19. Ariana Grande 

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Ariana Grande is an American singer who was born in 1993 in Boca Raton, Florida. Grande is known for her powerful voice, impressive vocal range, and captivating performances. This pop icon has a large following on social media and is an influencer. 

She has over 5 albums, and No Tears Left to Cry, Thank U-Next, and Into You are some of her songs. She has won many awards and honors and sold millions of records worldwide. She is a successful actress too. 

20. Jennifer Lopez 

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Jennifer Lopez, also known as J.Lo, is an American R&B singer, actress, and dancer. She was born in 1969 in New York City and she has released almost 10 albums so far. Her music is awesome, and her hit songs top the charts for weeks. 

If You Had My Love, Love Don’t Cost a Thing, and Jenny From The Block are some of her songs. J.Lo has sold millions of records worldwide and has won various music awards and honors over the years. She is one of the most influential and successful entertainers in music, film, and television. She is also a fashion Icon. 

21. Faith Evans  

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Faith Evans is an American R&B singer who was born in 1973 in Lakeland, Florida. She became famous in the R&B and hip-hop music industry in the 90s when she got married to The Notorious B.I.G. She is well known for the song “I’ll Be Missing You,” which was a collabo she did with P. Diddy and 112 (the R&B group) as a tribute to her rapper husband after his death. 

Faith has had a successful career in music since then, thanks to her powerful voice and musical talent. Never Gonna Let You Go, You Used to Love Me, Soon as I Get Home, Love Like This and All Night Long are some of her songs.  

Faith has sold lots of records, received several awards including a Grammy, and greatly contributed to the R&B genre. Her music is mostly about love, relationships, and personal experiences. 

Here are facts about The Notorious B.I.G.  

22. Jennifer Hudson 

Jennifer Hudson is an American R&B singer who was born in 1981 in Chicago, Illinois. She is blessed with a beautiful, powerful, and soulful voice, plus she is a talented musician and actress if the awards and honors she has received so far are anything to go by.  

Jennifer has won an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony. She has a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame, plus other honors. She has 3 albums so far and has acted in numerous movies and TV shows. Spotlight, If This Isn’t Love, I Can’t Describe, Can’t Stop the Rain, and Everybody Needs Love are some of her songs. 

23. Monica 

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Monica Denise Arnold is an award-winning American R&B singer who was born in 1980 in Georgia. Her songs are characterized by heartfelt lyrics plus soulful melodies, and she sings about love and relationships.  

With close to 10 albums, this singer has won numerous awards and she remains an influential figure in the world of music. So Gone, U Should’ve Known Better, Everything to Me, and Just Right for Me are some of her songs.  

24. Miley Cyrus 

Miley Cyrus is an American singer and actress who is known for her role in Hannah Montana the Disney Channel series. Her dad is a country music singer and Dolly Parton is her godmother. Miley began as a child star, then a teen idol, before moving her career to very great heights.  

She has released almost 10 albums, won many awards, and received many honors. Party in the USA, We Can’t Stop, and Malibu are some of her songs. Her music often reflects personal experiences and growth, showcasing her versatility and ability to experiment. Miley Cyrus is a musical genius. 

25. Britney Spears  

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Britney Spears is an award-winning American R&B singer, who is known for her chart-topping hit songs. Spears has sold millions of records and released close to 10 albums so far. She is a brilliant dancer and gives amazing performances. 

Baby One More Time, Oops!… I Did It Again, Toxic, Stronger, and I’m a Slave 4 U are some of her songs. She has won many awards and honors over the years.  

26. Aaliyah 

Born in 1979 in Brooklyn, New York, Aaliyah was an American singer who died young at only 22 years old. She died in a plane crash in 2001 in the Bahamas. Back & Forth, One in a Million, We Need a Resolution, and Rock the Boat are some of her songs.  

Despite her short career, Aaliyah made a lasting impact on the music industry, and her untimely death was a significant loss. Her talent, style, and contributions to R&B music have earned her a place among the most celebrated artists in the genre. 

27. Kelly Price 

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Born in April 1973 in Queens, New York, Kelly Cherelle Price is an American R&B singer known for her powerful vocals and soulful music. Kelly started as a background vocalist for artists like George Michael, Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston, and Aretha Franklin before she got into solo singing. 

Friend of Mine, As We Lay, It’s Gonna Rain, and He Proposed are some of her hit songs and she has close to 10 albums so far. She is a vocal breast cancer activist.  

28. Christina Aguilera 

Christina Aguilera is an award-winning American R&B singer who was born in 1980 in Staten Island, New York. She became famous in the 1990s and is one of the most powerful vocalists in the world today. Genie in a Bottle, What a Girl Wants, and Come On Over Baby are some of her songs. 

Christina is an icon and her music is catchy. She has won many awards and honors over the years, including a star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame. She is an actress and talented dancer too with about 10 albums to her name. 

29. Ciara

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Ciara is an American singer who was born in 1985 in Austin, Texas and rose to fame in the mid-2000s. Her songs are catchy and nice and she captivates fans with her energetic dance moves. This singer has been recognized with several awards and honors throughout her career. 

1-2 Step, Like a Boy, Promise, and Ride are some of her songs. She has 7 albums out so far. Her amazing music and awesome performances have made her a prominent figure in the R&B music scene. Her infectious energy, sultry vocals, and dynamic dance moves have her dedicated fan base mesmerized. 

30. Keyshia Cole 

Keyshia Cole is an American R&B singer and TV presenter. She was born in 1981 in Oakland, California, and became famous in the mid-2000s for her emotionally raw and soulful R&B music. She developed a passion for singing from an early age and began her musical journey by participating in talent shows and recording demos.  

She sings about her personal experiences and struggles, exploring themes of love, heartbreak, relationships, and empowerment. Cole is known for her raw and honest storytelling lyrics. Heaven Sent, Let It Go, I Should Have Cheated, Love, and I Changed My Mind are some of her songs. She has more than 5 albums so far.  

31. Gladys Knight 

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Born in Atlanta, Georgia, Gladys is an American R&B singer who started singing in a family music group and is referred to as the Empress of Soul. She has sung for several decades now, and she is celebrated for her powerful and soulful voice as a solo artist since the 80s.  

That’s What Friends Are For, Love Overboard, and License to Kill (the theme song for the James Bond film of the same title) are some of her songs. Gladys has 10 albums so far. She has received numerous awards and honors, including multiple Grammy Awards, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and several halls of fame. 

32. Diana Ross 

Diana Ross, born in 1944, is an American singer who became one of the most successful and influential artists in R&B music. She was a lead singer of ‘The Supremes’ but later became a successful solo singer. She has close to 30 albums and has won many awards and honors. 

Reach Out and Touch, Ain’t No Mountain High Enough, Love Hangover, Upside Down, and Endless Love are some of her songs.  

33. India Arie

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India Arie Simpson is a Grammy award-winning American R&B singer, whose music is about spirituality, inner peace, social justice, and the complexities of human relationships. She was born in 1975 in Denver, Colorado, and is known for her uniquely positive and uplifting messages that promote self-acceptance, individuality, and the importance of inner growth.  

With about 10 albums to her name, she captivates her fans with her soulful performances and thought-provoking songs, always wanting to inspire and empower her listeners. 

Little Things, I Am Not My Hair, The Truth, Beautiful, Brown Skin, and Ready for Love are some of her songs. 

34. Gwen Stefani 

Gwen Stefani is an American R&B singer and fashion designer. She is very versatile, trying out different musical styles as well as unique fashion styles. Gwen was born in 1969 in Fullerton, California, and she began as the lead vocalist of the band ‘No Doubt’ before launching her successful solo career. 

What You Waiting For?, The Sweet Escape, Wind It Up, 4 in the Morning, Rich Girl, Hollaback Girl, and Cool are some of her songs. Her music tops the charts and she’s won awards for it.  

35. Queen Latifah

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Born Dana Elaine Owens in 1970 in New Jersey, Queen Latifah is an R&B singer and actress who is known for her diverse career in music, film, and television. 

As a musician, this queen has 7 albums, with most songs talking about social issues, self-empowerment, and personal experiences. She is a skilled lyricist with a smooth delivery and positive messages in her songs. 

Ladies First, U.N.I.T.Y., Wrath of My Madness, Just Another Day, Come into My House, and Bananas (Who You Gonna Call?) are some of her songs. 


Those are the 35 best female R&B singers. These women have fearlessly used their voices as powerful instruments of change and inspiration. They stand tall as beacons of creativity, authenticity, and sheer vocal brilliance. They remain true musical legends.  

Here’s an article on the greatest jazz singers.

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