Neo-Soul

Examine the Black American sub-genre of Neo-Soul, popularized in the mid-1990s into the mid-2000s by acts like D'Angelo, Maxwell, Erykah Badu, Musiq Soulchild, and Jill Scott.

An exploration of the musical sub-genre that reshaped contemporary R&B and soul music, this book offers an in-depth look at the roots, evolution, and cultural impact of Neo-Soul—a genre that emerged in the mid-1990s and continues to influence artists and listeners alike.

Coined by record executive Kedar Massenberg, Neo-soul, characterized by its fusion of classic soul, jazz, hip-hop, and funk elements, is a genre that defies easy categorization. This book traces the genre's origins from the likes of D'Angelo, Erykah Badu, and Lauryn Hill to its continued relevance in the music landscape of today, heard in artists like Robert Glasper, Terrace Martin, Victoria Monet, and others. It provides readers with a deep dive into the lives and creative processes of Neo-Soul's pioneers and contemporary torchbearers.

Through interviews, behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and critical analysis, we gain a profound understanding of the genre's unique sonic qualities, its celebration of authenticity, and its role as a cultural force for change.