Stevie Wonder Tops Billboard’s List of Greatest R&B Artists of All Time
Legendary singer-songwriter Stevie Wonder has been named the greatest R&B artist of all time by Billboard, in a new list celebrating 75 of the genre’s most influential voices.
The list, compiled by Billboard’s editorial staff, ranks artists based on a combination of factors including vocal ability, the breadth and impact of their musical catalogue, career longevity, cultural influence, and contributions that have helped shape R&B over time.
Stevie Wonder, known for timeless hits like Superstition, Isn’t She Lovely, and Signed, Sealed, Delivered, claimed the top spot for his decades-spanning career, innovative sound, and powerful social messaging. The Motown icon, who began releasing music as a teenager in the 1960s, has earned numerous accolades, including over 20 Grammy Awards and an Oscar.
Following closely behind on the list are fellow icons Aretha Franklin (2), Michael Jackson (3), Beyoncé (4), and Whitney Houston (5), each recognised for their extraordinary impact on the genre.
Rounding out the top 10 are James Brown, Prince, Mariah Carey, R. Kelly, and Marvin Gaye.
Other influential names featured in the top 20 include Ray Charles (11), Usher (12), Sam Cooke (13), Curtis Mayfield (14), Isaac Hayes (15), Mary J. Blige (16), Janet Jackson (17), Al Green (18), Smokey Robinson (19), and Otis Redding (20).
The list also reflects the genre’s evolving landscape, with contemporary stars such as Chris Brown (26), Erykah Badu (28), Alicia Keys (33), Frank Ocean (37), SZA (44), The Weeknd (47), and John Legend (50) making the cut.
Billboard’s ranking offers a sweeping look at the artists who have defined and redefined R&B music across generations, cementing their legacy in the global music industry.
