Modern R&B Producers To Know 

Several newer R&B producers have significantly influenced the genre, bringing fresh sounds and innovative production techniques. Here are some of the most notable ones you might want to study if you're a budding songwriter and producer like me!

1. Timbaland

Notable Works: Beyoncé, Justin Timberlake, Rihanna

Contribution: Timbaland has consistently reinvented his sound, blending electronic elements with traditional R&B.

2. Pharrell Williams and The Neptunes

Notable Works: SZA, Usher, Frank Ocean

Contribution: Pharrell's unique approach to melody and rhythm has kept him at the forefront of R&B production.

3. Mike Will Made It

Notable Works: Rihanna, Ciara, Beyoncé

Contribution: Known for his trap-influenced beats, Mike Will Made It has brought a harder edge to contemporary R&B.

4. DJ Camper

Notable Works: H.E.R., Brandy, Mary J. Blige

Contribution: DJ Camper is known for his soulful, lush soundscapes that complement strong vocal performances.

5. London on da Track

Notable Works: Summer Walker, Trey Songz

Contribution: He has been instrumental in shaping the modern sound of R&B with his melodic beats and smooth production.

6. No I.D.

Notable Works: Jhené Aiko, Common, Usher

Contribution: A veteran in the industry, No I.D. has continued to influence the genre with his deep, soulful beats.

7. Hit-Boy

Notable Works: Beyoncé, Drake, Nipsey Hussle

Contribution: Hit-Boy has a versatile production style that blends hip-hop and R&B seamlessly.

8. Frank Dukes

Notable Works: The Weeknd, Rihanna, Post Malone

Contribution: Known for his cinematic approach to production, Frank Dukes has been behind some of the biggest hits in modern R&B.

9. T-Minus

Notable Works: Drake, The Weeknd, J. Cole

Contribution: T-Minus's production often features lush instrumentation and deep basslines, contributing to the moody and atmospheric sound of contemporary R&B.

10. Boi-1da

Notable Works: Drake, Rihanna, PARTYNEXTDOOR

Contribution: Boi-1da has been instrumental in shaping the sound of modern R&B with his innovative beats and production techniques.

11. James Fauntleroy

Notable Works: Justin Timberlake, Rihanna, Bruno Mars

Contribution: While primarily known as a songwriter, James Fauntleroy's production work is characterized by his smooth, soulful touch.

12. Nineteen85

Notable Works: Drake, dvsn, Majid Jordan

Contribution: As part of the duo dvsn, Nineteen85 has created a signature sound that blends atmospheric R&B with intricate production.

13. Key Wane

Notable Works: Big Sean, Beyoncé, Jazmine Sullivan

Contribution: Key Wane is known for his smooth, melodic beats and has been a key player in crafting hits that blend R&B and hip-hop seamlessly.

14. J-Louis

Notable Works: Bryson Tiller, Kehlani, Drake

Contribution: J-Louis is recognized for his atmospheric and moody production style, which has defined much of the modern "trap soul" sound.

15. Malay

Notable Works: Frank Ocean, John Legend, Zayn

Contribution: Malay's production is characterized by its lush, layered soundscapes and intricate arrangements, contributing to some of the most critically acclaimed R&B albums of the past decade.

These producers have been pivotal in shaping the sound of R&B in the post-2010 era, each bringing their unique style and approach to the genre.