For me, the golden era for R&B was in the 1990s to the early 2000s. This genre saw the rise of some of the most iconic female voices in music history, blending soulful ballads, infectious beats, and emotive lyrics to create a unique and enduring sound.
As we journey back in time, we invite you to reminisce and rediscover the women who defined a decade and left an indelible mark on the musical landscape.
Their powerhouse vocals, unmatched passion, and irresistible charm captured the hearts of millions across the globe and continue to inspire new generations today.
From legendary divas to sultry sirens, my personal list of the greatest 90s female R&B singers is the perfect soundtrack to your nostalgia trip. So, dust off your CD player, dig up that old mixtape, and get ready to lose yourself in the soul-stirring melodies of these unforgettable queens of R&B.
Why not listen to my 90s – 00’s R&B playlist while you read?
Black Female R&B Singers 90s
For me, the golden era for R&B was in the 1990s to the early 2000s. This genre saw the rise of some of the most iconic black female voices in music history, blending soulful ballads, infectious beats, and emotive lyrics to create a unique and enduring sound.
As we journey back in time, we invite you to reminisce and rediscover the women who defined a decade and left an indelible mark on the musical landscape.
Their powerhouse vocals, unmatched passion, and irresistible charm captured the hearts of millions across the globe and continue to inspire new generations today.
From legendary divas to sultry sirens, my personal list of the greatest 90s black female R&B singers is the perfect soundtrack to your nostalgia trip.
So, dust off your CD player, dig up that old mixtape, and get ready to lose yourself in the soul-stirring melodies of these unforgettable queens of R&B.
Best 90s Female R&B Singers
Whitney Houston
A winner of 6 Grammy awards, brandyon was an iconic singer with an incredible vocal range that left audiences mesmerized. Her music, often filled with emotion and passion, captured the hearts of listeners worldwide.
With hits like “I Will Always Love You” and “Greatest Love of All,” Whitney Houston’s influence on the music industry is still felt today.
Her ability to convey complex emotions through her music is a testament to her talent and dedication to the craft.
Brandy
Brandy‘s soulful voice and R&B style made her a household name in the ’90s. Her single “I Wanna Be Down” is one of my personal favorites and if I was still djing today I would be spinning that one.
And let’s not forget songs like “sittin’ up in my room” and “Have You Ever,” Brandy captivated audiences with her smooth vocals and relatable lyrics.
Her ability to infuse emotion and depth into her music set her apart from other artists of her time.
Aaliyah
Aaliyah‘s debut album Age Ain’t Nothing but a Number made her a standout in the RnB genre. Her hits like “One in a Million” and “Try Again” showcased her incredible talent and ability to push the boundaries of traditional R&B music.
Aaliyah’s impact on the industry was cut short when she tragically passed away, but her music continues to inspire and influence new generations.
You can hear some of Aaliyah’s hits on my 90s Playlist
Monica
Monica’s music career spans more than two decades and includes hit songs such as “The Boy Is Mine,” a duet with Brandy that topped the charts for several weeks in the late ’90s.
Her other popular singles include “Angel of Mine,” “Don’t Take It Personal,” and “So Gone.” Monica’s style is characterized by smooth vocals that blend perfectly with R&B beats.
Faith Evans
Faith Evans was a force to be reckoned with in the ’90s R&B era. Her soulful voice and gospel-inspired many artists. Hits like “Love Like This” and “You Used to Love Me”.
Evans’ talent is not limited to her vocal abilities. She was also an accomplished songwriter and producer, contributing to her own music as well as the music of other artists.
Her collaborations with artists like Puff Daddy and The Notorious B.I.G. helped solidify her place in the R&B and hip-hop scenes, and she became known for her ability to seamlessly blend genres.
Toni Braxton
Toni Braxton is a legendary Rnb female singer whose powerful sultry voice set her apart from other popular music artists of the ’90s. Braxton’s breakthrough album, “Toni Braxton,” released in 1993, quickly became a sensation, spawning hit singles like “Breathe Again” and “Another Sad Love Song.”
Her follow-up album, “Secrets,” released in 1996, solidified her place as a true superstar, with hit songs like “Un-Break My Heart” and “You’re Makin’ Me High” dominating the airwaves.
Missy Elliot
Missy Elliott has been producing hits and entertaining people like myself since the 1990s. Missy’s unique style and sound quickly became popular among audiences worldwide.
Her music seamlessly blends rap with funk, soul, and electronic beats to create powerful tracks that are impossible not to dance to. Her debut album Supa Dupa Fly was released in 1997 and received critical acclaim for its innovative sound.
Her hits like “Work It” and “Get Ur Freak On” showcased her incredible talent and ability to push the boundaries of traditional music. Missy Elliott’s impact on the industry continues to be felt today, making her a timeless icon.
Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill’s soulful voice and R&B style made her a fan favorite in the ’90s. As a member of the group The Fugees and as a solo artist, Lauryn Hill captivated audiences with her emotional performances and relatable lyrics.
Hits like “Doo Wop (That Thing)” and “Ex-Factor” showcased her incredible talent and ability to convey complex emotions through her music.
Mary J Blige
Mary J Blige is an American R&B singer who has been in the music industry for over 30 years. Mary J Blige started her career in the early ’90s and quickly rose to fame with her unique voice and soulful lyrics.
She is known for her powerful vocals and ability to connect with audiences through her music.
She has released numerous R&B hits throughout her career, such as “Real Love,” “No More Drama,” and “Family Affair.” Her music is not only popular in the United States but also internationally. In addition to being a talented singer, she has also acted in movies such as Mudbound and TV shows like Power.
Her success can be attributed to her dedication to creating meaningful music that resonates with listeners.
Discover Tai Andrews Latest Beats
Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey is one of the best-selling female artists of all time, having sold over 200 million records worldwide throughout her career.
Carey rose to fame in 1990 with her eponymous debut album, which spawned four number-one singles, including “Vision of Love,” “Love Takes Time,” “Someday,” and “I Don’t Wanna Cry.”
Her talents as a singer, especially her incredible vocal range, set her apart from other artists during the ’90s.
Known for her remarkable five-octave vocal range, Mariah Carey possesses a rare and extraordinary talent, often using her whistle register – the highest register of the human voice – in her songs.
Her use of melisma, a technique of singing multiple notes within one syllable, has influenced countless other artists throughout her career.
Janet Jackson
Janet Jackson is a name that has been synonymous with music and entertainment for over three decades.
The youngest member of the iconic Jackson family, she burst onto the scene in the early 90s with her self-titled studio album.
With hit singles such as “Control” and “What Have You Done For Me Lately,” Janet quickly established herself as a force to be reckoned with.
As a solo female artist, Janet’s influence on popular culture cannot be overstated. Her sound was unique and groundbreaking, blending elements of RnB, pop, and hip hop to create something entirely new.
And her stage presence was equally impressive – her high-energy live performances were known for their intricate choreography and elaborate costumes.
Erykah Badu
Erykah Badu is an American singer-songwriter and actress who has been active in the music industry since the 1990s. Erykah’s musical journey began when she started singing and performing at open mic events in Dallas.
In the late 90s (1997), Erykah released “Baduizm,” which quickly became a critical and commercial success. But, who could forget the single “On and On”? That bass line still hits me hard today. You Just try not to nod your head to this one.
Sade
Sade grew up listening to jazz and R&B music. She formed her band called Sade with Paul Denman, Andrew Hale and Stuart Matthewman, all of whom she met while studying at Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design.
Sade’s first album “Diamond Life,” released in 1984, became an instant success thanks to hits like “Smooth Operator” and “Your Love Is King.”
The album earned her multiple awards including a Grammy for Best New Artist.
Her subsequent albums “Promise,” “Stronger Than Pride,” and “Love Deluxe” were also widely popular among audiences worldwide.
Jill Scott
Jill Scott is a black female singer, songwriter, and actress who has captivated the hearts of millions with her soulful voice and powerful lyrics. Jill has become one of the most beloved and respected artists of our time.
Her music is a blend of R&B, jazz, hip-hop and spoken word that reflects her personal experiences as well as social commentary on issues such as love, race and gender.
Jill’s career began in the late 1990s when she was discovered by legendary producer DJ Jazzy Jeff. Her debut album “Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol. 1” was released in 2000 to critical acclaim and commercial success.
In addition to her musical talent, Jill Scott is also an accomplished actress. She has appeared in films like Tyler Perry’s Why Did I Get Married? and its sequel, as well as television shows like The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency.
Her performances have been praised for their emotional depth and authenticity, cementing her status as one of the most beloved artists working today.
Tamia
Tamia’s voice is beautiful. Hits like “So Into You” and “Stranger in My House” showcased her incredible talent and ability to convey complex emotions through her music. Tamia’s impact on the R&B scene may not be as widely recognized, but she remains a respected and influential artist in the genre.
90s R&B Female Groups
The groups that made history with their harmonies, vocals, and dance moves in the R&B scene of the 90s
702
702 is an American girl group that debuted in 1993 with the single “Steelo”, which was a hit on the R&B charts. The group consists of Kameelah Williams and sisters Irish and LeMisha Grinstead.
They have released four albums, three of which were certified platinum. Their most successful singles include “Where My Girls At?”, “I Still Love You”, and “Get It Together”.
Are you enjoying my list? Why not check out the top UK R&B Artists?
Xscape
Xscape is an American R&B girl group that formed in 1992. The group consists of Kandi Burruss, Tameka “Tiny” Cottle, and sisters LaTocha and Tamika Scott. They have released three albums, Hummin’ Comin’ at ‘Cha, Off the Hook, and Traces of My Lipstick, all of which were certified platinum.
Their most successful singles include “Just Kickin’ It”, “Who Can I Run To”, and “The Arms of the One Who Loves You”.
Total
Total was a top female RnB group that found great success in the 90s. They were formed in 1994 and consisted of members Kima Raynor, Keisha Spivey, and Pamela Long.
Their music was known for its catchy melodies and harmonies, as well as its strong vocal performances. Total quickly rose to fame with hits like “Can’t You See” featuring The Notorious B.I.G., which peaked at number one on the US Hot Dance Singles chart.
SWV
SWV, or Sisters With Voices, was a group made up of Cheryl “Coko” Gamble, Tamara “Taj” Johnson, and Leanne “Lelee” Lyons. Their soulful R&B sound made them a hit with audiences in the ’90s. Hits like “Weak” and “Right Here” showcased their incredible talent and ability to convey complex emotions through their music.
I can’t remember one DJ session when I didn’t play an SWV track. Absolute legendary 90s female R&B singers.
Jade
Jade is an American R&B trio that formed in 1992. The group consists of Joi Marshall, Tonya Kelly, and Di Reed. They have released two albums, Jade to the Max and Mind, Body & Song, both of which were certified gold.
Their most successful singles include “Don’t Walk Away”, “One Woman”, and “Every Day of the Week”.
En Vogue
En Vogue was a highly talented and dynamic group comprised of Terry Ellis, Dawn Robinson, Cindy Herron, and Maxine Jones, whose soulful sound infused with pop and hip-hop elements captured the hearts of audiences in the ’90s.
The quartet’s seamless harmonies and electrifying performances were truly unmatched, setting them apart from their contemporaries.
En Vogue’s musical prowess and ability to fuse different genres together was on full display in their hit songs like “Don’t Let Go (Love)” and “My Lovin’ (You’re Never Gonna Get It).”
Their ability to effortlessly blend elements of funk, R&B, soul, and hip-hop created a unique sound that appealed to a diverse range of listeners.
Why not listen to my 90s – 00’s R&B playlist on Spotify?
Destiny’s Child
Destiny’s Child, the iconic girl group consisting of four talented black women, rose to prominence in the late 1990s with their unique blend of R&B, pop, and soul music.
While Destiny’s Child disbanded in 2006, their impact on the industry and pop culture continues to resonate today.
Individually, each member went on to pursue solo careers with solo albums, showcasing their own unique styles, and proving their versatility as talented artists.
Beyoncé’s commanding vocals were a force to be reckoned with, while Kelly Rowland’s sultry R&B sounds added a layer of complexity to the group’s sound.
Michelle Williams rounded out the trio with her powerhouse vocals that left audiences in awe. Together, Destiny’s Child blazed a trail for black women in the music industry, cementing their legacy as one of the most influential girl groups of all time.
Listen to some of Destiny’s childs hit here: 90s Playlist
TLC
TLC, made up of Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins, Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes, and Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas, was a group that mixed R&B, hip-hop, and pop elements.
Their hits like “Waterfalls” and “No Scrubs” showcased their incredible talent and ability to address important social issues through their music.
TLC’s impact on the R&B scene cannot be denied, making them one of the most influential groups of the 90s in the genre.
Conclusion
The ’90s was a golden era for 90s female R&B singers, with each artist bringing their own unique sound and style to the genre.
From Whitney Houston’s powerful vocals to TLC’s socially conscious lyrics, these artists have left a lasting impact on the R&B scene that is still felt today.
Their music continues to inspire and influence new generations of artists, making them timeless icons in the genre.
