Sure, acts like Savannah Cristina and the charismatic Twelve’len are paving the way. And Florida has been home to indisputable legendary artists such as T-Pain, Pretty Ricky, Betty Wright, and, if we're seriously harking back, Ray Charles.
But there’s so much more to discover.
Although 2020 kneecapped the music industry, New Times has picked out ten emerging artists — listed here in alphabetical order by artist name — who found a way to connect to listeners. Now in 2021, these contemporary R&B acts are elevating the genre to new heights, fusing the sounds of jazz, funk, hip-hop, pop, and soul.