The 1990s and early 2000s was the R&B genre’s time to shine, and female artists were especially powerful. From groups like TLC and Destiny’s Child, to single artists such as Lauryn Hill and Mary J. Blige, these powerful female artists have made their marks in the best way: through music.
Starting with TLC, Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins, Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes and Rozanda “Chilli” Thomas are well known from their iconic 1994 album “CrazySexyCool.” This album harbors some of their most popular songs, such as “Creep,” which is based on Watkins’ experience with infidelity. Additionally, “Waterfalls” is a song that addresses serious topics such as illegal drug trade, promiscuity and HIV and AIDS epidemic. Also, “Diggin’ On You” is about the inability to explain or even understand why we fall in love with someone. This album touches on complex issues that many women experience, or have fears of experiencing.
The group Destiny’s Child, which was made up of Beyonce Knowles along with Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams, has an abundance of great songs like “Cater 2 U,” “Say My Name” and “Bills, Bills, Bills.” These songs are great for karaoke moments with friends and family, especially if you enjoy singing in groups.
Erykah Badu songs are a hit or miss. Badu has a unique style, giving her music more of a 50s beat, which then fades into a more upbeat sound. The 2000 album “Mama’s Gun” contains two of my favorites: “Green Eyes” and “Didn’t Cha Know.” “Green Eyes” is a longer song, at about ten minutes, but the rhythm switches plenty of times making it entertaining and enjoyable.
Lauryn Hill is one of the most iconic female R&B artists of all time. Her most popular album, which was released in 1998, “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill,” contains some of her best songs like “Ex-Factor,” “Doo Wop (That Thing),” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You- (I Love You Baby)” and “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.” This album touches on important topics such as educating oneself on love and not to sell yourself short for a person. Very few rappers and artists discuss these topics. Hill broke many records, becoming the first woman to be nominated in ten Emmy categories in a single year.
Mary J. Blige is another iconic female artist who writes about her hardships of living and loving in the 90s. Her 1994 album “My Life” debuted at number nine on the US Billboard 200 and eventually peaked at number seven. “My Life” was Blige’s second album, and it covered intense topics like clinical depression and her battles with both drugs and alcohol, while also being in an abusive relationship.
These powerful female artists have definitely made their mark on the R&B genre, and have ensured that this genre’s iconic style will continue. All of these artists’ music and talent are timeless, and they all have a unique way of resonating with emotions and experiences.
