41. "It just grew up into alt-r&b" In response to In response to 0 Mon Dec-07-15 10:18 AM by BigReg
The transition from 70's into 80's, and then 80's into 90's R&B was as jarring as the current transition into alt R&B. We may not want to claim it, but it's r&b through and through.
As far as more traditional rhythm and blues songs there are more the then a few soul revival acts eating paper, indie rock songwriters mining it for critical acclaim, etc.
I remember watching Sza a couple of years ago at SXSW and saw the crowd FIENDING for her and I had the same idea you did. I mean there’s a legion of Aaliyah clones out there which means there is a direct linage to prime 80’s Janet R&B. I just don’t think we easily see it