Well this year... actually last 10 years point to a very specific problem.
R&B (especially female) by and large has always been a major label supported endeavor.
To create an r&b "diva" takes a shit ton of money. It's harder to break through the way most of these artists are doing so now... which is build some sort of grass roots fanbase.. then upgrade to the major leagues...
Frank was able to do so because he rode in on a platform that was being built in a totally different world. He was able to attach himself to the hottest thing out and because he was already signed once the fire was lit... boom.. The Weeknd as well (although we could argue his non-traditional r&b makes it easier)
R&B is also considered old. Most of the time you hear fantasia or j hud or keyshia cole is on steve harvey or michael baisden. I'm not sure if that market would accept a "sex pot" these days...
Double 0 DJ/Producer/Artist Producer in Kidz In The Hall ------------------------------------------- twitter: @godouble0 IG: @godouble0 www.thinklikearapper.com