Music icon Stevie Wonder has been honored as the Greatest R&B Artist of All Time, according to a new ranking published by Billboard. The announcement came as part of the magazine’s list of “The 75 Best R&B Artists of All Time,” celebrating decades of contributions to the genre.
The list, curated by Billboard staff, considered a range of criteria including vocal talent, body of work, career longevity, industry achievements, groundbreaking influence, and lasting cultural impact.
Stevie Wonder claimed the top spot, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential and enduring figures in R&B. He is followed by other legends of the genre: Aretha Franklin at No. 2, Michael Jackson at No. 3, Beyoncé at No. 4, and Whitney Houston rounding out the top five.
The top 10 continues with James Brown, Prince, Mariah Carey, R. Kelly, and Marvin Gaye.
Other iconic names featured prominently on the list include Ray Charles (11), Usher (12), Sam Cooke (13), Curtis Mayfield (14), and Isaac Hayes (15). The rankings also recognize contemporary and crossover artists such as Mary J. Blige (16), Janet Jackson (17), Al Green (18), Smokey Robinson (19), and Otis Redding (20).
Modern stars were not overlooked. Chris Brown landed at No. 26, Erykah Badu at 28, Diana Ross at 29, and Alicia Keys at 33. Other notable mentions include Babyface (35), Toni Braxton (36), Frank Ocean (37), Brandy (41), SZA (44), Rihanna (46), The Weeknd (47), Lauryn Hill (48), and John Legend (50).
The list serves as a tribute to the genre’s rich history and its evolving influence across generations, recognizing both trailblazing pioneers and today’s chart-topping stars.
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