A contemporary genre that emerged in the 1990s, it represents a fusion of soul music with elements of jazz, funk, R&B, hip hop, and alternative music. Artists within this style typically emphasize personal and socially conscious lyrical themes, incorporating complex harmonies and instrumental arrangements reminiscent of classic soul while embracing modern production techniques. Erykah Badu, D’Angelo, and Lauryn Hill are frequently cited as pioneers and significant contributors to its development and popularization.
The significance of understanding this musical category lies in its contribution to the evolution of contemporary R&B and its influence on subsequent generations of musicians. It broadened the sonic palette of popular music by reintroducing sophisticated musicality and thoughtful lyrical content, thereby offering a counterpoint to the prevailing trends in mainstream genres. Its historical context reveals a deliberate effort to reclaim and redefine the essence of soul music for a modern audience.