Legendary singer-songwriter Stevie Wonder has been ranked the Greatest R&B Artist of All Time, according to a newly released list by Billboard staff.
The music publication unveiled its list of “The 75 Best R&B Artists of All Time,” with rankings based on vocal prowess, body of work, career longevity, industry achievements, cultural influence, and generational impact.
Stevie Wonder claimed the top spot for his groundbreaking contributions to R&B and popular music over a career spanning more than six decades. He is followed by Aretha Franklin at number two, Michael Jackson at three, Beyoncé at four, and Whitney Houston at five.
Rounding out the top 10 are James Brown, Prince, Mariah Carey, R. Kelly, and Marvin Gaye.
Other iconic artists 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).
Contemporary R&B stars also made notable appearances on the list. Chris Brown ranked 26th, Erykah Badu 28th, Diana Ross 29th, Alicia Keys 33rd, Babyface 35th, Toni Braxton 36th, Frank Ocean 37th, Brandy 41st, SZA 44th, Rihanna 46th, The Weeknd 47th, Lauryn Hill 48th, and John Legend at 50.
The list celebrates artists whose music has shaped and elevated the R&B genre across generations.
