Unpacking the 2025 Grammy R&B Nominations: From Tradition to Evolution

The 2025 Grammy Awards are nearly here, and R&B fans have a lot to look forward to! This year’s nominations highlight some of the biggest stars and most exciting newcomers in R&B. Let’s dive into who’s been nominated in each category and see how R&B has transformed since the ‘90s.

In the Best R&B Performance, artists like H.E.R. and Giveon have captured attention with their smooth, heartfelt vocals. Both artists continue the tradition of authentic emotional expression in R&B, a hallmark since the ‘90s when artists like Whitney Houston and Boyz II Men led the charts. Giveon’s track brings a rich, baritone style that recalls classic R&B but with a modern, relatable touch.

The Best Traditional R&B Performance honours those who keep the roots of R&B alive. Here, legends like Alicia Keys are celebrated for their dedication to the genre’s soulful essence. Alicia’s nominated track reminds fans of classic R&B’s powerful simplicity, resonating with audiences who love timeless, emotional depth. She is joined by other artists who honour the genre’s history while adding their unique flair.

Meanwhile, the Best R&B Song celebrates the craft of songwriting, and artists like Jazmine Sullivan and SZA are nominated for their standout lyrics. Jazmine, with her powerful storytelling, and SZA, with her introspective lyricism, both exemplify how R&B has become a space for deep personal expression—a big shift from the ’90s focus on love and romance themes.

In the Best Progressive R&B Album, artists like The Weeknd showcase R&B’s adaptability, mixing it with electronic and alternative sounds. This category, a relatively new addition, reflects how R&B has evolved to include broader influences, making it more versatile than ever. The Weeknd’s album, with its futuristic production and moody themes, represents the genre’s forward-thinking side.

Finally, the Best R&B Album rounds out the nominations, celebrating the best full-length works that capture the heart and soul of R&B. Here, Grammy veterans and new voices come together, highlighting the strength and diversity of modern R&B. Names like Summer Walker and Daniel Caesar bring both traditional and innovative elements to their albums, showcasing the genre’s dynamic range.

Since the ‘90s, R&B has seen immense growth. Where the genre was once defined by mainstream, radio-friendly hits, today’s R&B is much more experimental and diverse. The 2025 Grammy nominations illustrate this evolution, blending tradition with bold new directions.

One artist that many fans would love to see recognized at the Grammys is Cleo Sol. Known for her soulful voice and introspective lyrics, Cleo Sol has carved a unique place in modern R&B with her passionate storytelling and deeply personal songs. While she hasn’t received mainstream Grammy attention, her work resonates with listeners looking for authentic, heartfelt music. Her recent album, with rich melodies and profound reflections on life and relationships, showcases a timeless yet refreshingly contemporary artistry. Recognizing artists like Cleo Sol would celebrate the quieter yet impactful voices shaping today’s R&B, honouring the diversity of talent within the genre. Many fans hope Cleo’s undeniable talent soon earns her a spot among Grammy nominees.

This year’s Grammy Awards will honour the incredible breadth of R&B today, from the soulful to the progressive. As we await the winners, it’s clear that R&B continues to evolve, inspiring audiences worldwide.

Which R&B artist are you rooting for this year? Share your thoughts below in the comments!