R&B, or RnB, originated in the 1940s.

In the 80s, a newer style of R&B developed, known as "Contemporary R&B". It combines elements of rhythm and blues, soul, funk, pop, hip hop and dance.

Popular R&B vocalists at the end of the 20th century included Prince, Michael Jackson, R. Kelly, Stevie Wonder, Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey.

Since 2010 some popular Hip Hop has started to take from the R&B sound, adopting a softer, smoother sound indicative of traditional R&B with rappers such as Drake and Fetty Wap.

R&B is known for smooth vibes softer themes, largely based around love and relationships.

An offshoot of R&B called RnBass has recently developed. As the name suggests, heavy 808's tend to replace the blues aspect of R&B. It also incorporates EDM influences.