The Best Neo Soul Artists
  • Photo:

The Best Neo Soul Artists

Coley Reed
Updated April 27, 2024 302.2K views 51 items
Ranked By
26.0K votes
2.9K voters
Voting Rules
Only neo-soul artists.
Latest additions: Giveon, Beverley Knight, Tweet
Most divisive: Blu Cantrell
Over 2.9K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of Neo Soul Artists

This list of the best neo soul groups and artists let’s you see who hard-core neo soul fans believe the best neo soul musicians are. While soul music remains one of the most popular music genres, neo soul emerged in the 1990s as a new take on an old favorite. Neo soul fuses elements of hip hop, jazz, and funk to create a sound with soul elements. The best neo soul bands have the rare ability to blend the past and present, and the soul revival movement has allowed for many new and recent underground artists (2019 to today) to emerge and become hugely popular. Different from contemporary R&B, neo soul singers are an alternative to the producer-driven sound of modern R&B music, and this genre is a refreshing style of music that only continues to evolve.

So, who are the best neo soul artists of all time? A compilation of neo soul musicians wouldn't be complete without powerful female singers Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, and Amy Winehouse. Male vocalists such as D'Angelo and John Legend are also bound to be included on any top neo soul artists. These neo soul musicians are known by many as some of the best in the genre. And if not for these fantastic musicians, it's highly unlikely that neo soul would be as popular as it is today.

That said, it's up to you to determine who the best neo soul artists are. This list answers the questions "who are the best neo soul bands of all time?" and "who is the greatest neo soul musician ever?" If you know enough about the genre, please vote based on the quality of the artists' albums and songs, rather than simply the ones that are the most popular or famous.

  • Erykah Badu
    1
    1,005 votes

    Erykah Badu, known as the "Queen of Neo Soul," has been a major influence in the movement since her groundbreaking debut album, Baduizm, in 1997. With her unique blend of R&B, jazz, and hip hop, Badu's soulful sound and thought-provoking lyrics have captivated audiences worldwide. Her style has evolved throughout her career, but the essence of her music remains rooted in the genre that brought her to prominence. Essential songs from her discography include "On & On," "Bag Lady," and "Window Seat."

  • Jill Scott
    2
    929 votes

    Since her powerful debut with Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol. 1, Jill Scott has provided a much-needed voice for women in the neo soul genre. With her sultry vocals and heartfelt lyrics, Scott's music resonates with audiences across generations. Her powerful storytelling combined with her undeniable stage presence has solidified Scott's status as one of the best neo soul artists in history. Songs like "A Long Walk," "Golden," and "He Loves Me" showcase her true talent as a singer and songwriter.

  • Musiq
    3
    603 votes

    Musiq Soulchild emerged onto the neo soul scene at the turn of the century with his critically acclaimed debut album, Aijuswanaseing. With a unique voice and style, Musiq has managed to stand out among his peers with his blend of R&B, soul, and hip hop. His smooth vocals and relatable lyrics have struck a chord with fans as he sings about love, life, and everything in between. Key tracks from his discography include "Love," "Just Friends," and "Halfcrazy."

  • D'Angelo
    4
    794 votes

    D'Angelo burst onto the scene in 1995 with his iconic album Brown Sugar, which laid the groundwork for what would become known as neo soul. His sultry voice combined with smooth production values set him apart from other artists in the genre at that time. Throughout his career, D'Angelo has continued to evolve his sound while maintaining a loyal fanbase. His most recent album, the critically acclaimed Black Messiah, proves that he remains a force in the neo soul movement. Essential D'Angelo tracks include "Untitled (How Does It Feel)," "Cruisin'," and "Really Love."

  • Lauryn Hill
    5
    762 votes

    Lauryn Hill's 1998 solo debut album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, remains a seminal work in the neo soul genre. As part of the legendary group The Fugees before embarking on her solo career, Hill already displayed her musical versatility by blending hip hop and R&B elements with soulful vocals. Her solo work only elevated her status as she explored subjects like love, spirituality, and social issues through powerful songwriting. Her hit singles "Doo Wop (That Thing)," "Ex-Factor," and "Everything Is Everything" are just a few examples of her impact on the genre.

  • India.Arie
    6
    560 votes

    India.Arie is an accomplished singer-songwriter who first rose to fame with the release of her debut album, Acoustic Soul, in 2001. Known for promoting self-love and empowerment through her music, India.Arie is a breath of fresh air within the neo soul landscape. Her signature acoustic sound, coupled with her emotionally-driven lyrics and soothing vocals, create an intimate listening experience that has resonated with fans for decades. Some standout tracks include "Video," "Brown Skin," and "I Am Not My Hair."

  • Anthony Hamilton's rich, soulful voice is the centerpiece of his music, which blends elements of traditional R&B with a modern neo soul sensibility. Since his debut in the early 2000s, Hamilton has consistently delivered powerful performances on tracks like "Charlene," "Comin' from Where I'm From," and "Can't Let Go." With raw emotion and a genuine connection to his audience, Hamilton has solidified himself as one of the most captivating neo soul artists in the industry.

  • Maxwell
    8
    720 votes

    Maxwell emerged onto the neo soul scene in the mid-'90s with his debut album, Maxwell's Urban Hang Suite, which showcased his impressive vocal range and introspective lyrics. His signature falsetto and smooth production have made him a mainstay in the genre ever since. Maxwell is known for his emotionally driven ballads that captivate audiences worldwide, including hits such as "Ascension (Don't Ever Wonder)," "Pretty Wings," and "This Woman's Work."

  • Sade Adu
    9
    498 votes

    As the lead singer of the band Sade, Sade Adu has been enchanting listeners with her sultry voice and emotionally charged lyrics since the 1980s. Although often classified more broadly as an R&B or smooth jazz artist, her influence on neo soul is undeniable. With timeless hits like "Smooth Operator," "No Ordinary Love," and "By Your Side," Sade Adu has solidified her status as a legendary artist and an inspiration for many contemporary neo soul musicians.

  • Floetry
    10
    486 votes

    Comprised of singer-songwriter Marsha Ambrosius and spoken word artist Natalie Stewart, Floetry brought a fresh perspective to the neo soul genre with their unique fusion of poetry and music. Their soulful harmonies and introspective lyrics resonated with listeners, leading to critical acclaim for their debut album, Floetic. Floetry's ability to seamlessly blend spoken word with smooth R&B grooves sets them apart as one of the most innovative acts in neo soul. Essential tracks include "Say Yes," "Floetic," and "Getting Late."

  • Raphael Saadiq
    11

    As both a solo artist and as a member of the popular R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné!, Raphael Saadiq has proven himself as one of the most versatile and influential artists in the neo soul genre. Known for his smooth voice and excellent musicianship, Saadiq's unique sound, which combines elements of old-school soul with modern-day R&B, has earned him numerous accolades throughout his career. Some standout songs from his discography are "Ask of You," "Skyy, Can You Feel Me," and "100 Yard Dash."

  • Angie Stone
    12
    455 votes

    Angie Stone's deeply rich voice has been captivating listeners since her days as a member of the groundbreaking female hip-hop group Sequence before she transitioned to become a solo artist. Stone excels at creating songs that intertwine elements of classic R&B, hip-hop, and neo soul to create her own distinct sound. Her soulful, introspective music is best exemplified in tracks such as "No More Rain (In This Cloud)," "Wish I Didn't Miss You," and "Brotha."

  • Ledisi
    13
    390 votes

    With a powerful voice that can effortlessly glide between sultry, jazzy tones and soaring, gospel-infused melodies, Ledisi has carved out a distinct place for herself in the neo soul genre. Her artistry combines vulnerability and strength in every song she creates, captivating audiences with tracks like "Pieces of Me," "I Blame You," and "Alright." Ledisi's undeniable talent has earned her numerous award nominations and accolades throughout her career.

  • Dwele
    14
    362 votes

    Dwele began his career in the early 2000s, earning acclaim for his smooth vocals and soulful production. With a refined sound that seamlessly blends elements of R&B, jazz, and hip-hop, Dwele's music has garnered him a dedicated fanbase over the years. His thought-provoking lyrics often explore themes such as love, relationships, and personal growth. Standout tracks from his discography include "Find A Way," "Subject," and "What Profit."

  • Raheem Devaughn
    15

    Raheem Devaughn burst onto the neo soul scene with his debut album, The Love Experience, which showcased his smooth vocals and penchant for heartfelt storytelling. His emotive lyrics blend seamlessly with lush production to create a truly captivating listening experience. Over the years, Devaughn has continued to showcase his versatility as an artist with hits like "You," "Woman," and "Customer."

  • The Roots
    16
    463 votes

    As one of the most influential hip-hop groups in history, The Roots have also played a significant role in shaping the neo soul landscape. With their unique blend of live instrumentation and thought-provoking lyrics, the group's sound borrows heavily from classic soul traditions while adding a modern twist. The Roots' influence on the genre can be heard in their collaborations with artists like Erykah Badu and Jill Scott, as well as on standout tracks such as "You Got Me," "What They Do," and "Break You Off."

  • Kem
    17
    376 votes

    With a velvety smooth voice and introspective lyrics that often delve into themes of love and redemption, Kem has become a beloved figure among neo soul aficionados. His music combines elements of classic R&B with gospel-infused melodies to create a distinct sound that resonates with fans across generations. Some key songs from his catalog include "Love Calls," "I Can't Stop Loving You," and "Share My Life."

  • Comprised of married couple Fatin Dantzler and Aja Graydon, Kindred the Family Soul is known for their emotionally resonant lyrics that explore themes of love, family, and spirituality. Their unique fusion of soulful harmonies, catchy melodies, and relatable storytelling has earned them a loyal fanbase and critical acclaim. Essential tracks from the duo include "Far Away," "Stars," and "Where Would I Be (The Question)."

  • Goapele
    19
    288 votes

    Goapele's ethereal vocals and thought-provoking lyrics have made her a standout artist within the neo soul genre since her debut album, Closer. Her unique sound combines elements of R&B, jazz, hip-hop, and world music to create an enchanting listening experience. Goapele's dedication to activism and social change is also reflected in many of her songs, which often tackle important issues such as love, empowerment, and justice. Essential tracks include "Closer," "First Love," and "Milk & Honey."

  • Since the release of her debut self-titled album in 2006, Corinne Bailey Rae has been charming audiences with her delicate voice and heartfelt songwriting. Her unique fusion of R&B, jazz, and pop has made her a favorite among neo soul fans. Rae's music often explores themes of love, loss, and personal growth, as showcased in standout tracks like "Put Your Records On," "Like a Star," and "The Sea."

  • Jazmine Sullivan
    21

    Jazmine Sullivan burst onto the scene with her powerful vocals and emotionally raw storytelling, which have become hallmarks of her music. Her unique blend of R&B, soul, and gospel has captivated listeners since her debut album, Fearless. Sullivan's unapologetic honesty and vulnerability shine through in tracks such as "Need U Bad," "Lions, Tigers & Bears," and "Holding You Down (Goin' in Circles)."

  • Leela James
    22
    297 votes

    Leela James possesses a powerful voice that evokes the soulful traditions of classic R&B while remaining firmly rooted in the modern-day neo soul sound. With a grittiness reminiscent of iconic singers like Etta James and Aretha Franklin, James effortlessly captures the emotional complexities of love and heartache in her music. Memorable tracks from her catalog include "Music," "Fall for You," and "Don't Want You Back."

  • Groove Theory
    23
    234 votes

    Comprised of singer Amel Larrieux and producer Bryce Wilson, Groove Theory rose to prominence in the mid-'90s with their unique blend of soulful R&B and rhythmic hip-hop beats. The duo's captivating harmonies and introspective lyrics helped set the stage for many neo soul acts that followed. Key tracks in their discography include "Tell Me," "Baby Luv," and "Keep Tryin'."

  • Vivian Green
    24
    258 votes

    Vivian Green's emotive voice and poignant songwriting have made her a favorite among neo soul fans since her debut album, A Love Story. Her music often delves into themes of love and self-discovery, resonating with listeners craving vulnerability and authenticity. Green's dedication to her craft has resulted in standout songs like "Emotional Rollercoaster," "Fanatic," and "Gotta Go Gotta Leave (Tired)."

  • Marsha Ambrosius
    25

    After achieving success as one half of the duo Floetry, Marsha Ambrosius embarked on a solo career that showcases her incredible vocal range and exceptional songwriting skills. Known for her sultry voice and introspective lyrics, Ambrosius remains a significant force in the neo soul genre. Memorable tracks from her solo work include "Far Away," "Late Nights & Early Mornings," and "Hope She Cheats On You (With a Basketball Player)."

  • Chrisette Michele's fusion of jazz-infused melodies with powerful vocals has made her a standout neo soul artist since her debut album, I Am. Her timeless sound, coupled with emotionally charged lyrics, has earned Michele critical acclaim throughout her career. Key songs from her discography include "If I Have My Way," "Epiphany (I'm Leaving)," and "A Couple of Forevers."

  • Formed in the late 1980s, R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné! played an integral role in laying the groundwork for what would later become known as neo soul. Their fusion of traditional soul elements with contemporary R&B led to numerous chart-topping hits throughout their career. The group's impact on the genre can still be felt today through timeless tracks like "Feels Good," "Anniversary," and "It Never Rains (in Southern California)."

  • Meshell Ndegeocello's boundary-pushing sound has made her a forerunner in the neo soul genre since the early '90s. With a career spanning over two decades, Ndegeocello has continually experimented with various musical styles, including R&B, rock, and jazz. Her powerful songwriting often covers themes of love, politics, and racial identity. Notable tracks include "If That's Your Boyfriend (He Wasn't Last Night)," "Outside Your Door," and "Fool of Me."

  • Eric Roberson
    29

    Eric Roberson

    260 votes

    Eric Roberson has built a dedicated following within the neo soul community due to his smooth vocals and heartfelt storytelling. As an independent artist, Roberson has forged his own path with his unique fusion of R&B and hip-hop influences. His emotionally charged lyrics, often exploring themes of love and relationships, resonate deeply with his audience. Standout tracks from his discography include "Picture Perfect," "Dealing," and "Softest Lips."

  • The Foreign Exchange, a musical duo comprised of rapper/singer Phonte and producer Nicolay, have made a lasting impact on the neo soul scene since their first album, Connected, was released in 2004. Their music is known for its seamless blend of R&B, electronica, and hip-hop, which creates a truly unique sound that sets them apart from other artists in the genre. Key songs from their catalog include "Daykeeper," "Take Off the Blues," and "Happiness."

  • John Legend
    31
    428 votes

    John Legend's smooth voice and captivating stage presence have made him one of the most successful musical artists in recent memory. His music skillfully fuses elements of R&B, gospel, and jazz to create a unique neo soul sound that resonates with audiences across generations. Known for his emotionally charged ballads and powerful storytelling, Legend's standout tracks include "Ordinary People," "Save Room," and "All of Me."

  • Alicia Keys
    32
    393 votes

    Alicia Keys emerged onto the neo soul scene in 2001 with her groundbreaking debut album, Songs in A Minor. Her classical piano training combined with her emotional songwriting and powerful vocals create an unforgettable sound that has captivated listeners for decades. As an accomplished musician, singer, and songwriter, Keys' influence on the neo soul genre is undeniable. Essential tracks include "Fallin'," "If I Ain't Got You," and "No One."

  • Amy Winehouse
    33
    676 votes

    The late Amy Winehouse became an international sensation in 2006 with the release of her sophomore album, Back to Black. Her soulful voice and candid songwriting captured the hearts of fans worldwide, leaving behind a lasting impact on the neo soul genre. Winehouse's ability to seamlessly blend elements of jazz, R&B, and blues created a sound that was entirely her own. Unforgettable tracks from her career include "Rehab," "Tears Dry on Their Own," and "Love Is a Losing Game."

  • Joss Stone
    34
    302 votes

    Joss Stone's powerful voice took the music world by storm in 2003 with her debut album, The Soul Sessions. Her unique blend of R&B, soul, and blues has earned her numerous accolades throughout her career. With emotionally charged lyrics and an undeniable stage presence, Stone remains a major influence in the neo soul genre. Key songs from her catalog include "Spoiled," "Tell Me 'Bout It," and "Right to Be Wrong."

  • Res
    35
    103 votes

    Res first made an impact on the neo soul scene with her 2001 debut album, How I Do. Her genre-defying sound combines elements of R&B, rock, and electronica to create a unique listening experience that has continued to captivate fans over time. Memorable tracks from Res include "Golden Boys," "Ice King," and "They-Say Vision."

  • Georgia Anne Muldrow is a multifaceted artist known for her contributions as a singer, songwriter, and producer in the neo soul genre. Her experimental sound effortlessly blends elements of R&B, jazz, hip-hop, and electronic music to create an unforgettable listening experience. Some standout tracks from her career include "Run Away," "Seeds," and "Roses."

  • Cherokee
    37
    72 votes

    Cherokee first made waves in the neo soul community with her debut album, I Love You…Me in 1999. Her unique sound combines elements of R&B, jazz, and hip-hop to create a captivating listening experience that has resonated with fans for decades. Known for her sultry vocals and introspective lyrics, Cherokee's standout tracks include "Ooh Wee Wee," "Stars," and "Voodoo Woman."

  • Duffy
    38
    129 votes

    Welsh singer Duffy brought fresh energy to the neo soul scene with her 2008 debut album, Rockferry. Her powerful voice and emotive songwriting have drawn comparisons to iconic artists like Dusty Springfield and Etta James. With hit tracks like "Mercy," "Warwick Avenue," and "Stepping Stone," Duffy became an international sensation.

  • The Heavy
    39
    81 votes

    The Heavy is a British band known for their unique fusion of rock, funk, soul, and hip-hop flavors. Their music often incorporates elements of classic soul and R&B, which has earned them a following among neo soul enthusiasts. Standout tracks from their discography include "How You Like Me Now," "What Makes a Good Man," and "Short Change Hero."

  • Raahsan Patterson
    40

    Raahsan Patterson

    5 votes
  • Jaguar Wright
    41

    Jaguar Wright

    5 votes
  • Tweet
    42

    Tweet

    5 votes
  • Blu Cantrell
    43
    131 votes

    Blu Cantrell burst onto the neo soul scene in the early 2000s with her powerful vocals and infectious melodies. Her debut album, So Blu, showcased her unique blend of R&B, jazz, and pop influences that made her an instant sensation. Cantrell's memorable songs include hits like "Hit 'Em Up Style (Oops!)," "Breathe," and "Make Me Wanna Scream."

  • Rhian Benson
    44
    71 votes

    British-Ghanaian singer Rhian Benson made her mark in the neo soul scene with her 2003 debut album, Gold Coast. Her sultry voice and emotionally charged lyrics captivated audiences, while her fusion of R&B, jazz, and African music influences created a truly unique sound. Standout tracks from Benson include "Say How I Feel," "Stealing My Peace of Mind," and "Rewind."

  • De La Soul
    45
    65 votes

    While primarily known as a pioneering hip-hop group, De La Soul's influence on the neo soul movement cannot be ignored. With their unique blend of clever lyrics, innovative production, and soulful grooves, the group has contributed to the evolution of the genre throughout their decades-long career. Key tracks from their extensive discography include "Me Myself and I," "Stakes Is High," and "Breakadawn."

  • Mayer Hawthorne
    46

    Mayer Hawthorne's smooth voice and vintage-inspired sound have made him a favorite among neo soul fans since his debut album, A Strange Arrangement. With influences ranging from classic Motown to contemporary R&B, Hawthorne's music offers a fresh take on traditional soul styles. Essential tracks include "Just Ain't Gonna Work Out," "The Walk," and "Her Favorite Song."

  • Beverley Knight
    47
    Beverley Knight, (born Beverley Anne Smith; 22 March 1973) is an English recording artist and musical theatre actress who released her debut album, The B-Funk, in 1995. Heavily influenced by American soul music icons such as Sam Cooke and Aretha Franklin, Knight has released eight studio albums to date. Widely labelled as one of Britain's greatest soul singers, Knight is best known for her hit singles "Greatest Day", "Get Up!", "Shoulda Woulda Coulda" and "Come as You Are". In 2006 Knight solidified her transition into the mainstream by starring in the BBC music TV series Just the Two of Us, a role she reprised in 2007. After releasing a platinum-selling compilation album in 2006, Knight went on to tour the UK with a reformed Take That. She has also hosted four series of the BBC Radio 2 show Beverley's Gospel Nights, which explores the origins and impact of gospel music. To date the show has run for four seasons and has featured interviews with stars such as Michelle Williams and Shirley Caesar. Knight is an ambassador for many charities such as Christian Aid and has travelled to areas affected by disease and poverty to help raise awareness. She is an active campaigner for anti-Aids organisations such as the Stop AIDS Campaign and The Terrence Higgins Trust and is also a vocal campaigner against homophobic lyrics in urban music. On Saturday, 15 August 2009, she performed live at the fourth annual UK Black Pride event in Regent's Park. On Friday 4 December 2009, at the invitation of Sarah Brown, wife of the Prime Minister, Knight performed the two songs "Shoulda Woulda Coulda" and "Gold" to an invited audience at 10 Downing Street in support of the White Ribbon Alliance for Safe Motherhood Million Mums charity. After more than a decade in the music industry, Knight was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire in 2006 in recognition of her contribution to British music. In September 2005, Knight was made an honorary Doctor of Music by the University of Wolverhampton. After receiving a host of awards, including three MOBO Awards, Knight was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2004 at the Urban Music Awards in London. Knight supported Prince during his residency at the O2 Arena and ended up performing at his after party. As a result of this, she was also flown to perform at his Oscars party in front of A-list stars and got a standing ovation from stars such as Quincy Jones. Knight sang at the London 2012 Paralympic Opening Ceremony. The performance was unanimously praised and a recorded version by Knight reached #101 on iTunes, her first charting single since "Soul Survivor" and highest since "Beautiful Night" in 2010 and 2009 respectively. In September 2013, Knight made her first foray into musical theatre, taking over the lead role of Rachel Marron from Heather Headley in The Bodyguard. On 21 February 2014, it was confirmed that Knight would take on the lead role of Felicia in the musical Memphis, opening on 23 October 2014.Beverly made her panto debut in 2017 at the Birmingham Hippodrome as the Fairy Godmother in Cinderella.
  • Ari Lennox
    48

    Ari Lennox

    3 votes
  • Keiyaa
    49

    Keiyaa

    3 votes
  • Macy Gray
    50

    Macy Gray

    3 votes
  • Giveon
    51

    Giveon

    3 votes