History of Rhythm and Blues

a saxophonist and a guitarist performing on the stage

Rhythm and blues, also called rhythm & blues or R&B, is a type of music genre predominantly performed in the African communities during the 1940s. Rhythm and blues was also responsible for developing subsequent genres, notably rock and roll, doo-wop, disco, and hip hop or rap music, among many others. Where did … Read more

Artist Profile: Toto

Formed in 1977 in Los Angeles, California, Toto is a rock band that is currently composed of David Paich on keyboards and vocals, Steve Lukather on guitars and vocals, Joseph Williams on lead vocals, and Steve Porcaro on keyboards. Aside from being a rock band, Toto is also known for their different … Read more

History of Soul Music

History of Soul Music

Soul music is a combination of gospel music and Rhythm and Blues or R&B. And it all began in the United States during the late 1950s. It may seem that soul has a lot in common with R&B, but if you will listen closely, soul has a greater emphasis on vocalists, it … Read more

Music Legends: Ray Charles

Music Legends Ray Charles

Introduction Ray Charles was an American R&B and soul singer-songwriter and pianist who became one of the pioneers and most important figures of soul during the 50s and 60s music era. He is called “The Genius” of soul music. He combined soul, R&B, gospel, pop and country to create enduring oldies classic … Read more

Music Legends: Otis Redding

Otis Redding 1967

Introduction The late Otis Redding was one of the popular artists during the 60s music era. He is now one of oldies music’s legends, and his influence cannot be denied, even almost 50 years after his untimely death. He was a soul and R&B singer-songwriter who was known as “the voice of … Read more

One-hit wonders: The Weather Girls

The Weather Girls

The Weather Girls The Weather Girls are a female R&B and dance music duo originally consisting of Izora Armstead and Martha Wash. Initially known as Two Tons o’Fun, the Weather Girls scored a big hit and now- camp oldies classic hit (as well as party anthem and “gay anthem”) “It’s Raining Men” … Read more

Music Legends: Whitney Houston

Music Legends Whitney Houston

Introduction Whitney Houston was an American singer, actress, film and record producer. She first rose to fame during the 80s music era and her fame was extended well into the 1990s. Houston is known for her megahits: “Saving All My Love for You,” “How Will I Know,” “Greatest Love of All,” “I … Read more

Artists Profile: Lionel Richie

Artists Profile Lionel Richie

Introduction Lionel Richie is one of the most successful artists from the 80s music era, only to be eclipsed by Michael Jackson and Prince. Richie first gained recognition as one of the members of the R&B/soul group the Commodores. After he left the group during the early 80s he embarked on a … Read more

Artists Profile: Daryl Hall & John Oates (aka Hall & Oates)

Daryl Hall

Introduction Daryl Hall & John Oates aka Hall and Oates were one of the most popular acts during the late 70s to mid 80s music. Their music consists of classic rock and roll, new wave and blue-eyed soul, sometimes they themselves referred to their style as “rock soul. The duo tasted their … Read more

Artists Profile: Chairmen of the Board

Artists Profile Chairmen of the Board

Introduction Chairmen of the Board was an American soul group mostly active during the 70s music era. Their famous hits include “Give Me Just a Little More Time,” “Pay to the Piper,” “(You’ve Me) Dangling on the String,” and “Everything’s Tuesday.” They are considered one of the most popular and smoothest soul … Read more

Artist Biography: Arthur Conley

Arthur Conley

Introduction Arthur Conley (1946-2003) is the late American soul singer-songwriter who attained a considerable success during the 60s music era. He is known for his #2 Billboard pop and R&B hit “Sweet Soul Music.” The hit single was actually re-written by Conley and his mentor and another oldies music legend Otis Redding, … Read more

Artist Biography: Brenda and the Tabulations

Brenda and the Tabulations

Introduction  Brenda and the Tabulations were an American R&B act formed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1966. The original formation consisted of Brenda Payton, Eddie Jackson, Jerry Jones and Maurice Coates. They amassed several hits from the mid-60s music to early 70s music era. In 1971, the three male members left the group … Read more