The Reign of New Jack Swing and Smooth Soul
1987 saw the rise of New Jack Swing, a fusion of R&B, hip-hop, and dance-pop. Artists like Keith Sweat and Guy pioneered this innovative sound, injecting a youthful energy into the R&B landscape. Simultaneously, the smooth, sophisticated sounds of quiet storm continued to captivate audiences, with artists like Anita Baker and Freddie Jackson delivering heartfelt ballads.
Defining Moments in R&B: The Crossover Hits of 1987
Several R&B songs crossed over to the pop charts in 1987, demonstrating the genre’s widespread appeal. Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” became a global phenomenon, showcasing her powerhouse vocals and infectious energy. Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam’s “Head to Toe” was another crossover smash, blending R&B rhythms with pop sensibilities. These crossover hits helped solidify R&B’s place in the mainstream music scene.
The Unforgettable Voices of 1987: From Ballads to Bangers
The top R&B songs of 1987 showcased a remarkable range of vocal talent. From the soaring vocals of Jody Watley to the sultry tones of Alexander O’Neal, these artists delivered performances that resonated with audiences and left a lasting impact on the music industry.
Who Dominated the R&B Charts in 1987?
Artists like Terence Trent D’Arby and Club Nouveau also made significant contributions to the R&B scene in 1987, introducing fresh sounds and innovative musical styles. Their unique approaches to R&B helped diversify the genre and push creative boundaries.
Did you know? Terence Trent D’Arby’s debut album, “Introducing the Hardline According to Terence Trent D’Arby,” garnered critical acclaim and commercial success, solidifying his status as a rising star in R&B.
Bobby Brown, a former member of New Edition, launched his successful solo career in 1987 with his album “Don’t Be Cruel.” This album featured several hit singles, including the title track and “My Prerogative,” further solidifying his place as a leading figure in the New Jack Swing movement.
- “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” – Whitney Houston: A euphoric celebration of love and joy.
- “Just Get Close Enough” – Nova: A seductive slow jam that became a quiet storm classic.
- “Casanova” – LeVert: A smooth and infectious track with unforgettable harmonies.
“1987 was a pivotal year for R&B,” says renowned music historian Dr. Alan Smith. “It was a time of experimentation and innovation, where new sounds and styles emerged, shaping the future of the genre.”
The Legacy of 1987: Influencing Generations of R&B Artists
The top R&B songs of 1987 continue to inspire and influence artists today. The innovations of New Jack Swing can be heard in contemporary R&B and hip-hop, while the soulful ballads of the era remain timeless classics. 1987 solidified R&B’s position as a dynamic and ever-evolving genre. The impact of these iconic songs and artists continues to shape the soundscape of R&B music today.
“The music of 1987 was the soundtrack to my youth,” reminisces Grammy-winning producer, Karen Jones. “Those songs still hold up today because of the raw emotion and incredible talent behind them.”
In conclusion, the top R&B songs of 1987 offer a captivating glimpse into a transformative period for the genre. From the groundbreaking sounds of New Jack Swing to the enduring appeal of soulful ballads, these songs created a lasting impact on music and continue to resonate with audiences today. The influence of these top R&B hits of 1987 is still evident in the music we hear today.
FAQ
- What is New Jack Swing? A fusion of R&B, hip-hop, and dance-pop that emerged in the late 1980s.
- Who were some of the key artists in the New Jack Swing movement? Keith Sweat, Teddy Riley, and Guy.
- What were some of the biggest crossover R&B hits of 1987? “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” by Whitney Houston and “Head to Toe” by Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam.
- What are some examples of quiet storm ballads from 1987? “Just Get Close Enough” by Nova and songs by Anita Baker and Freddie Jackson.
- How did the music of 1987 influence later R&B artists? The innovations in production and stylistic blending paved the way for contemporary R&B and hip-hop.
- Where can I listen to these top R&B songs of 1987? Streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music offer extensive catalogs of 1987 R&B hits.
- What other genres were popular in 1987 alongside R&B? Pop, rock, hair metal, and new wave were also prominent during this time.
For any assistance, please contact us at Email: [email protected], or visit our office at Constellation Blvd, Suite 100, Los Angeles, CA 90067, USA. Our customer service team is available 24/7.