New Jack Swing
One of the biggest trends in R&B music in 1985 was the emergence of what would come to be known as "New Jack Swing." This style, characterized by its fusion of R&B, hip hop, and electronic music, was exemplified by the work of producers like Teddy Riley, who was credited with coining the term. Hits like "The Show" by Doug E. Fresh and Slick Rick and "Rock Me Tonight (For Old Times Sake)" by Freddie Jackson helped to popularize the sound.
Crossover Hits
Another notable trend in R&B music in 1985 was the increasing popularity of crossover hits. These were songs that appealed to both R&B and pop audiences and helped to break down barriers between the two genres. One of the biggest crossover hits of 1985 was "Saving All My Love for You" by Whitney Houston, which hit number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and won a Grammy Award.
Established Artists
Several established R&B artists continued to dominate the charts in 1985. Lionel Richie, who had already achieved massive success both as a solo artist and as a member of The Commodores, released his hit album "Dancing on the Ceiling" that year, which featured the title track and other hits like "Say You, Say Me" and "Love Will Conquer All." Other established R&B artists like Tina Turner, Luther Vandross, and Chaka Khan also released successful albums and singles in 1985.
Conclusion
In conclusion, R&B music in 1985 was characterized by a mix of new sounds, established artists, and crossover hits. The emergence of New Jack Swing and the popularity of crossover hits helped to move R&B music into the mainstream, while established acts like Lionel Richie continued to maintain their dominance. Looking back, 1985 was a pivotal year for R&B music, and the trends and sounds of the time continue to influence the genre to this day.
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