NEO SOUL.

The article focuses on the genre of neo soul, which emerged in the late 1990s, largely attributed to Kedar Massenburg, the President of Motown Records, who coined the term to categorize a new wave of music that blended classic soul with contemporary influences. Key artists associated with neo soul include Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, and D'Angelo, each of whom has made significant contributions to the genre, though their output has been limited in recent years. The genre is characterized by its homage to classic soul while incorporating elements from hip-hop, rock, and funk, and while it enjoyed a brief period of popularity, it is now viewed as a nostalgic reflection of its time. Essential albums and singles from this era are highlighted, showcasing the lasting impact of neo soul on music. [Extracted from the article]