Neo-Soul
Neo-soul is a subgenre of soul and R&B that emerged in the 1990s, blending traditional soul, jazz, funk, and hip-hop. It is characterized by introspective, socially conscious lyrics, warm organic instrumentation, and a focus on raw emotional authenticity and improvisational vocal delivery.
Origin: United States (Philadelphia, New York urban scenes), with significant UK influences.
Era: 1990s-present, peaking in the late 1990s and early 2000s.