The Best Neo Soul Artists
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."
More Erykah Badu
- #511 of 557 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- #221 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- #228 of 251 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of The Last 30 Years, Ranked
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.
More Jill Scott- #230 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- #78 of 147 onThe 145+ Best R&B Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- #96 of 177 onThe Greatest Black Actresses Of All Time
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 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."
More D'Angelo- Dig Deeper...The Best D'Angelo Songs of All Time
- #72 of 147 onThe 145+ Best R&B Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- #23 of 24 onMusicians Whose Grammy Wins Basically Made Their Careers
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.
More Lauryn Hill- Dig Deeper...The Best Songs Feat. Lauryn Hill
- And Deeper...The 365+ Most Famous Geminis
- #901 of 1,285 onThe Most Beautiful Women Of All Time
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."
More India.Arie- Dig Deeper...Unicef Goodwill Ambassadors For The United States
- #264 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- #101 of 147 onThe 145+ Best R&B Artists Of All Time, Ranked
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."
More Maxwell- #52 of 147 onThe 145+ Best R&B Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- #73 of 85 onThe Greatest Crooners Of All Time
- #34 of 71 onWho Is The Most Famous Max In The World?
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.
More Anthony Hamilton- #93 of 147 onThe 145+ Best R&B Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- #28 of 78 onThe Best Tiny Desk Concerts From NPR Music
- #35 of 107 onWho Is The Most Famous Anthony or Tony In The World?
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.
More Sade Adu- #1210 of 1,285 onThe Most Beautiful Women Of All Time
- #118 of 557 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- #44 of 345 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- 10
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."
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'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."
More Angie Stone- #672 of 784 onThe Greatest Entertainers Of All Time
- #23 of 36 onThe Best Musical Artists From South Carolina
- #47 of 58 onThe Greatest Black Female Soul Singers
- 13
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.
- 14
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 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."
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."
More The Roots- Dig Deeper...The Best Roots Albums of All Time
- #270 of 273 onThe Greatest Live Bands of All Time
- #11 of 111 onThe Best Hip Hop Groups of All Time
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)."
- 18
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."
- 19
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."
More Corinne Bailey Rae- Dig Deeper...The Best Corinne Bailey Rae Albums, Ranked
- #55 of 83 onThe Greatest Female Vocalists of the Past 10 Years
- #328 of 557 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
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)."
More Jazmine Sullivan- #85 of 119 onCurrent Singers You Most Wish You Could Sound Like
- #50 of 62 onWho Is The Most Famous Sullivan In The World?
- #25 of 77 onThe Best R&B Artists Of 2024
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."
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'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)."
More Vivian Green- #7 of 47 onWho Is The Most Famous Vivian or Viviene In The World?
- #33 of 89 onWho Is The Most Famous Green In The World?
- #28 of 41 onThe Best Bands with Green in the Name
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)."
More Tony! Toni! Toné!- #67 of 69 onThe Best Musical Trios Of All-Time
- #97 of 147 onThe 145+ Best R&B Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- #500 of 669 onEvery Band & Musician Who Has Performed on Saturday Night Live
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."
More Meshell Ndegeocello- #105 of 154 onThe Best Rock Bassists of All Time
- #107 of 143 onThe 200+ Best Female Rappers Of All Time, Ranked
- #397 of 476 onCelebrities You Didn't Know Use Stage Names
- 29
Eric Roberson
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."
