The “It girls” of today are undoubtedly serving. From looks to choreography, it’s incredible to witness the new generation of greats on the rise. Vocalists, like Tyla and Victoria Monet, are building their legacy in front of the world, finding their unique sound in an saturated market.

However, as music experiences its inevitable cycle, it’s hard not to give props to the Black female vocalists of the 90s, who set the trends many worship today. These 11 Black female vocalists not only shaped the sound of the 90s, but also influenced many musicians of today, leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry.

SWV

SWV (Sisters With Voices) revolutionized R&B with their smooth harmonies and love-drenched lyrics. Their debut album, “It’s About Time” featured timeless hits like “Weak” and “Right Here.” The project showcased their ability to blend soulful melodies with contemporary sounds, pivotal in popularizing the New Jack Swing genre. Emerging in the early ’90s, SWV brought a fresh yet nostalgic sound that resonated with both mainstream audiences and R&B purists. Their vocal chemistry and emotionally resonant performances quickly set them apart in a crowded music landscape. Beyond commercial success, SWV’s influence can be heard in the music of many modern R&B artists who cite them as an inspiration. With multiple platinum albums and a legacy of chart-topping singles, the trio remains a defining force in the evolution of ’90s R&B.

Whitney Houston

You can’t talk about vocalists without mentioning Whitney Houston. A dominant force in the 90s and beyond, she’s known for her powerful, emotive voice and breathtaking range. Her soundtrack for “The Bodyguard,” including the iconic “I Will Always Love You,” became one of the best-selling albums of all time. Her influence extended across pop, soul, and gospel, earning her numerous Grammy Awards and breaking records for female artists worldwide. Houston’s ability to convey raw emotion through technically flawless performances set a new standard in music. She not only shaped the sound of a generation, but also paved the way for countless artists who followed in her footsteps.

Toni Braxton

Toni Braxton completely owned the 90s with her deep, sultry vocals. Her self-titled debut album and hits like “Un-Break My Heart” solidified her status as an R&B icon. Braxton’s ability be not only fly, but relatable made her a defining figure of the decade. Her timeless sound blended heartbreak and elegance. With a signature voice that stood out instantly, she brought soul to every track. Braxton’s music videos, fashion, and presence also influenced the era’s aesthetic, making her not just a vocal powerhouse, but a cultural trendsetter in the industry.

Aaliyah

Aaliyah was a groundbreaking artist whose blend of R&B, hip-hop, and pop defined the sound of the late 90s. With an innovative style, she produced timeless hits, like “Try Again” and “Are You That Somebody?” Her influence on fashion and music videos continues to inspire new generations of artists. Known for her smooth vocals, futuristic production choices, and effortlessly cool persona, Aaliyah helped redefine what it meant to be a female artist in the industry. She bridged the gap between street style and elegance, always pushing boundaries while staying authentically her. Even after her untimely passing, her legacy lives on in today’s sound, visuals and vibe.

Brandy

Often referred to as the “vocal Bible,” Brandy made a lasting mark in the 90s with her unique voice and relatable lyrics. Her self-titled debut album included hits, like “I Wanna Be Down,” and her starring role in the sitcom “Moesha” further established her as a cultural icon. Brandy’s intricate vocal arrangements and effortless runs set a new standard in R&B, influencing countless artists across genres. She broke barriers for young Black women in both music and television, proving that one could dominate charts and screens simultaneously. With her signature braids and soulful sound, Brandy became a blueprint for blending talent, authenticity and star power.

Mya

Distinct from other artists of the moment, Mya came onto the scene strong with her self-titled debut album and the chart-topping hit “It’s All About Me.” Her fusion of R&B and hip-hop, coupled with her captivating performances, helped shape the sound of 90s music. She added a bohemian flare to everything she did, distinguishing her amongst her peers. Mya’s versatility allowed her to seamlessly transition from sultry ballads to collaborations with industry heavyweights. Her graceful dance ability, soft yet commanding vocals, and eclectic fashion sense made her a standout figure.

Janet Jackson

In the 90s, no one was doing it like Janet Jackson. She singlehandedly redefined pop and R&B with groundbreaking albums, like “Janet” and “The Velvet Rope.” Her innovative music videos and socially conscious lyrics addressed themes of love, empowerment and personal struggle. Jackson’s influence on choreography, fashion and sound continues to have the industry dumbfounded. A master of reinvention, she blended vulnerability with strength, creating music that was as emotionally rich as it was sonically forward. Her iconic performances and bold visual storytelling set new standards for artists across genres. From arena tours to activist anthems, Jackson proved that artistry and impact could go hand in hand.

Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey dominated the 90s with her extraordinary vocal range and songwriting talent. Her debut album featured the chart-topping single “Vision of Love,” continuing to release hits like “Fantasy” and “Always Be My Baby.” Her blend of pop and R&B, along with her signature whistle register, solidified her status as one of the best-selling female artists of all time. Carey redefined vocal excellence and commercial success, effortlessly shifting between power ballads and hip-hop-infused anthems. Her holiday classic “All I Want for Christmas Is You” became a cultural phenomenon, further proving her lasting appeal. With unmatched vocal agility and emotional depth, Carey set a gold standard in both artistry and influence.

Xscape

Xscape made waves in the 90s with their rich harmonies and effortless swag. Hits, like “Just Kickin’ It” and “Understanding,” showcased their vocal talent as a unit. Their lasting influence extended beyond their own music, as members went on to become successful songwriters and producers. Known for blending streetwise edge with soulful vulnerability, Xscape brought authenticity to every track. Their ability to balance powerhouse vocals with relatable storytelling earned them a loyal fan base. Whether delivering slow jams or upbeat anthems, the group consistently pushed the boundaries of 90s R&B. Their legacy still remains strong to this day.

Monica

Monica emerged as a teenager with her debut album “Miss Thang,” which included the hit “Don’t Take It Personal.” Her powerful vocals and relatable themes of love and heartbreak resonated with listeners, establishing her as a prominent figure in 90s R&B. She brought a maturity and emotional depth to her music well beyond her years. With a distinctive voice that could convey both strength and vulnerability, Monica became a voice for young women navigating love and life. Her duets, like “The Boy Is Mine” with Brandy, became cultural milestones, further cementing her legacy. Monica’s authenticity and consistency have made her a lasting presence in the genre. 

Mary J. Blige

With thigh-high boots and a dream, Mary J. Blige solidified herself as the “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul” in the 90s. She effortlessly blended R&B with hip-hop. Her debut album “What’s the 411?” and subsequent releases featured raw, autobiographical lyrics that spoke to struggles and triumphs. Blige’s emotional depth and authenticity transformed the genre, paving the way for future artists to embrace vulnerability in their music. Her gritty yet soulful delivery connected deeply with fans, creating anthems of resilience and empowerment. Beyond music, Blige’s style and attitude influenced fashion and culture, making her a trailblazer who transcended the industry. Her legacy remains a blueprint for honest storytelling.

En Vogue

En Vogue emerged in the 90s as a dynamic group known for their vocalists’ abilities and harmonies. Songs, like “Hold On” and “My Lovin’ (You’re Never Gonna Get It),” showcased their ability to blend strong, soulful vocals with contemporary R&B beats. Each member’s distinct voice contributed to the group’s signature sound, making them one of the era’s most influential female vocal ensembles. As Black female vocalists in the 1990s, they set a new standard for precision, style, and stage presence.

Faith Evans

Faith Evans was a powerhouse vocalist in the 90s known for her rich tone and emotional delivery. Her debut album “Faith” featured hits like “You Used to Love Me,” showcasing her ability to blend traditional soul with modern R&B. As a vocalist, Evans’ skill earned her a lasting place among the decade’s top artists. Beyond her solo success, she played a vital role in shaping the sound of 90s hip-hop and R&B through collaborations with artists, like The Notorious B.I.G.. Her emotive performances and heartfelt lyrics resonated deeply with fans, making her a defining voice of the era. Faith’s ability to convey vulnerability and strength in equal measure helped elevate the genre and inspire countless vocalists who followed in her footsteps. Her enduring influence continues to be felt across contemporary R&B and hip-hop music.