Top 16 Most Influential Female R&B Artists of the 2000s

• Birthday: 10/07/1967
• Hometown: Severn, Maryland
• Albums: *The Heat* (2000, 2 Platinum certifications); *Snowflakes* (2001); *More Than A Woman* (2002); *Libra* (2005)
• Notable Song: “He Wasn’t Man Enough” (2000)

• Birthday: 10/13/1980
• Hometown: Glen Cove, New York, USA
• Albums: *Ashanti* (2002, 3 Platinum certifications); *Chapter II* (2003, Platinum certification); *Concrete Rose* (2004, Platinum certification); *The Declaration* (2008)
• Notable Songs: “Foolish” (2002); “Rock wit U (Awww Baby)” (2003)

Ciara is one of the most successful artists of the 2000s. Her debut album *Goodies* achieved remarkable success, earning 3 Platinum certifications, with hits like “Goodies” and “1,2 Step” dominating global music charts. Known for her energetic and catchy music, Ciara's sound captivated a young audience, making her a standout artist of the decade. She truly deserves a high spot on this list.

Her second studio album, *Ciara: The Evolution*, released in 2006, performed well in the U.S., reaching the No. 1 spot on the album charts and securing Platinum status. Ciara's career boasts 8 singles in the Top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100, 3 MTV Video Music Awards, and 1 Grammy Award. She has also written or co-written songs for major stars such as Missy Elliott and Bow Wow.

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• Birthday: 10/25/1985
  
• Hometown: Austin, Texas, USA
• Albums: *Goodies* (2004, 3 Platinum certifications); *Ciara: The Evolution* (2006, Platinum certification); *Fantasy Ride* (2009)
• Notable Songs: “Goodies” (2004); “Promise” (2006)

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• Birthday: 1979-2001
  
• Hometown: Brooklyn, New York, USA
• Albums: *Aaliyah* (2001, 2 Platinum certifications); *I Care 4 U* (2002, Platinum certification)
• Notable Songs: “Try Again” (2000); “Miss You” (2002)

Keri Hilson is no stranger to the music industry, as she's a renowned songwriter. Many iconic artists have recorded her songs, including Britney Spears, Toni Braxton, Chris Brown, Mary J. Blige, Usher, Ciara, The Pussycat Dolls, LeToya, Ludacris, Jennifer Lopez, Kelly Rowland, Nicole Scherzinger, Omarion, Tiffany Evans, and Timbaland. Not only is Keri an accomplished songwriter, but she also excels as a background vocalist, as demonstrated in tracks like *Runaway Love* and *Wait a Minute*. With the support of her close friend Justin Timberlake and her mentor Timbaland, Keri’s on-stage performances as a lead artist have made her a formidable contender in the music scene.

Keri made her first major impression on the audience during the 2004 MTV Europe Music Awards. However, it wasn’t until two years later when she signed with Timbaland that she began to shine as a featured performer in his music videos and live performances. Keri’s skill in both songwriting and providing backup vocals made her a go-to artist for many top stars. Her appearances in hits like *The Way I Are*, *Scream*, *Miscommunication*, *Hello*, *Lost Girl*, *Good Things*, and *Blackout* have left lasting impressions. The praise from both fans (winning the 2007 Teen Choice Award for Favorite Rap Singer for *The Way I Are*) and industry professionals motivated Keri to pursue her career as a solo artist after years of being a backing vocalist.

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• Birthday: 12/05/1982
• Hometown: Decatur, Georgia, USA
• Albums: *Keri Hilson* (2009); *Nelly* (2010); *Keri Hilson* (2010); *Timbaland* (2007); *Rich Boy* (2007); *R. Kelly* (2009); *T.I.* (2010); *Akon* (2010); *Xzibit* (2004)
• Notable Songs: “Knock You Down” (2009); “Energy” (2009); “I Like” (2009); “Turnin Me On” (2009); “Pretty Girl Rock” (2010); “The Way I Are” (2007); “Slow Dance” (2009); “Lose Control” (2010)

Jennifer Hudson is an American actress and singer. In 2004, she earned a spot on *American Idol*, gaining recognition and a dedicated fan base. In 2006, she starred as a Motown singer in the film *Dreamgirls*, a role that earned her both a Golden Globe and an Oscar. Hudson also won a Grammy Award in 2008 for her debut album, which was recognized as the Best R&B Album.

Hudson released her most recent album, *JHUD*, in 2014, a more exciting project produced by the likes of Pharrell Williams and Timbaland. The following year, she returned to television, appearing in the hit musical drama *Empire*, created by Lee Daniels and Danny Strong. The show, which focuses on the behind-the-scenes of a successful music family, featured Hudson as a music therapist and included her singing the show’s soundtrack.

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• Birthday: 12/09/1981
• Hometown: Chicago, Illinois
• Albums: *JHUD* (2014), *I Remember Me* (2011), *Jennifer Hudson* (2008), *American Idol Season 3: Greatest Soul Classics* (2004)
• Notable Songs: “Spotlight” (2008); “If This Isn’t Love” (2008); “No One Gonna Love You” (2011); “I Still Love You” (2014); ...

Mary J. Blige made history with her debut solo album, *What's the 411?* in 1992, achieving major success with several No.1 hits on the Billboard charts and earning a total of nine Grammy awards. In 1996, she won her first Grammy for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group for her collaboration with Method Man on *I'll Be There For You / You're All I Need to Get By*. Her third album, *Share My World* (1997), also reached No.1 on the Billboard album chart, with tracks like "Love Is All We Need" and "Everything" becoming hits.

With nine Grammys, eight multi-platinum albums, and a spot on *Rolling Stone*'s list of the 100 greatest singers of all time, Blige is an undeniable force in the world of hip-hop soul. The 2000s marked her peak, with multiple platinum-certified albums cementing her place as one of the genre's most influential figures.

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• Born: January 11, 1971
• Hometown: Bronx, New York
• Albums: *No More Drama* (2001, 2x Platinum); *Love & Life* (2003, Platinum); *The Breakthrough* (2005, 3x Platinum); *Growing Pains* (2007, Platinum); *Stronger With Each Tear* (2009, Platinum)
• Notable Songs: “Family Affair” (2001); “Be Without You” (2005)

Fantasia Barrino (born June 30, 1984) is an American singer and actress who gained widespread recognition after winning *American Idol* Season 3 in 2004. Known for her powerful R&B voice, she has also performed on Broadway and earned seven Grammy nominations. Born in North Carolina, Fantasia’s unique surname, Barrino, surprises many, as her father’s Cuban roots make it uncommon among African-Americans.

Fantasia faced a troubled youth, including sexual abuse, which led her to drop out of high school. By age 17, she had a daughter named Zion Quari Barrino. Her life took a pivotal turn in 2004 when she auditioned for *American Idol*, where she stood out with an emotionally charged performance of “Summertime.” The performance was praised by judge Randy Jackson as one of the greatest in *Idol* history.

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• Born: June 30, 1984
• Hometown: High Point, North Carolina
• Albums: *Free Yourself* (2004); *Fantasia* (2006); *The Definition Of* (2016); *Sketchbook* (2019)
• Notable Songs: “Summertime”; “I Believe”; “Free Yourself”; “Baby Mama”; “Hood Boy”

Though she may be the least recognized name on this list, Jill Scott quickly made her mark with her smooth, captivating voice and impressive vocal runs. Her debut album *Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol. 1* earned her two platinum certifications. Scott's music leans more toward the sophisticated and artistic side rather than mainstream appeal, which is why she was awarded a Grammy for Best R&B Performance in 2005.

In addition to her success as a singer, Jill Scott has also made a significant impact as a songwriter. One of her most notable contributions is “You Got Me,” which became a pop hit, even though it didn’t feature her voice. However, Scott performed the song live with The Roots, and the recorded version was featured on *The Roots Come Alive*, released in November 1999. The studio version of the song won a Grammy for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group, although as a songwriter, Scott didn’t receive the award.

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• Born: April 4, 1972
• Hometown: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Albums: *Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol. 1* (2000, 2x Platinum); *Experience: Jill Scott 826* (2001); *Beautifully Human: Words and Sounds Vol. 2* (2004); *The Real Thing: Words and Sounds Vol. 3* (2007); *Live in Paris* (2008)
• Notable Song: “Cross My Mind” (2004)

In 2007, Alicia Keys released her album *As I Am*, which included the Grammy-winning hit “No One.” The following year, she also released the single “Another Way to Die,” which became the theme song for the James Bond film *Quantum of Solace*. *As I Am* continued to be a chart-topping success throughout 2008, with the single “Superwoman” also bringing her another Grammy.

With 15 Grammy Awards, 11 Billboard Music Awards, and 25 million albums and singles sold worldwide, Alicia Keys is widely regarded as one of the most successful and talented artists of her generation. Not only is she known for her powerful voice, but she is also an exceptional songwriter and piano player. The previous decade marked the peak of Alicia's career, with six platinum-certified albums and numerous globally beloved hits such as “No One,” “Fallin’,” and “If I Ain’t Got You.” Alicia Keys undoubtedly deserves her place at the top of this list.

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• Born: January 25, 1981
• Hometown: New York, USA
• Albums: *Songs in A Minor* (2001, 6x Platinum); *The Diary of Alicia Keys* (2003, 4x Platinum); *Unplugged* (2005, Platinum); *As I Am* (2007, 3x Platinum); *The Element of Freedom* (2009, Platinum)
• Notable Songs: “Fallen” (2001); “You Don’t Know My Name” (2003); “If I Ain’t Got You” (2004); “My Boo” (2004); “No One” (2007); “Like You’ll Never See Me Again” (2007)

Janet Damita Jo Jackson (born May 16, 1966) is an American singer, songwriter, dancer, and actress. Known for her groundbreaking and socially conscious music, as well as her provocative performances, she has been a significant cultural icon for over three decades. The youngest member of the Jackson family, she began her career with the TV show The Jacksons in 1976 and appeared in numerous other programs throughout the 1970s and early 1980s, including Good Times and Fame.

With over 100 million records sold, Jackson is one of the best-selling artists in contemporary music history. She also holds the record for the most consecutive top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 by a female artist, with 19 songs. In 2016, Billboard ranked her seventh in the 'Top Artists of All Time,' and in 2010, she was ranked fifth in their 'Top 50 R&B/Hip-Hop Artists of the Past 25 Years.' One of the most awarded musicians worldwide, her work has shaped and redefined the landscape of mainstream music. Jackson is also recognized as a major influence on countless other artists.

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• Birthday: May 16, 1966
  
• Hometown: Gary, Indiana, USA
• Albums: Janet Jackson (1982), Dream Street (1984), Control (1986), Janet Jackson's Rhythm Nation 1814 (1989), janet. (1993), The Velvet Rope (1997), All for You (2001), Damita Jo (2004), 20 Y.O. (2006), Discipline (2008), Unbreakable (2015)
• Hit Songs: "Nasty", "Rhythm Nation", "That's the Way Love Goes", "Together Again", and "All for You",...

Robyn Rihanna Fenty, professionally known as Rihanna, is a Barbadian singer, songwriter, actress, diplomat, and businesswoman. In 2003, she began recording demo tapes under the direction of producer Evan Rogers and soon signed with Def Jam Recordings after auditioning for its president, rapper Jay-Z. Rihanna rose to fame in 2005 with the release of her debut studio album *Music of the Sun* and its follow-up *A Girl Like Me* (2006), both of which landed in the top 10 of the Billboard 200 chart and included hit singles like "Pon de Replay," "SOS," and "Unfaithful".

The release of her first single from the album, "Umbrella," marked a breakthrough moment in Rihanna’s career, earning her international recognition and a Grammy Award at the 50th Annual Grammy Awards in 2008. She followed up with four consecutive platinum-certified albums, including *Unapologetic* (2012), which won a Grammy Award. Rihanna’s eighth studio album, *Anti* (2016), topped the Billboard 200 and became one of the highest-streamed albums of the year.

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• Birthdate: February 20, 1988
• Hometown: Saint Michael, Barbados
• Albums: *This Is Rihanna* (2005), *Take a Bow* (2008), *Good Girl Gone Bad* (2009), *You Da One* (2011), *Devil in a Blue Dress* (2012), *Rockstar 101: The Remixes* (2012), *Greatest Hits* (2013),...
• Notable Songs: "Umbrella", "Take a Bow", "Disturbia", "Only Girl (In the World)", "S&M", "We Found Love", "Diamonds", "Stay", "Work"

Amerie's mother is Korean, and her father is African American. From an early age, Amerie developed a passion for music. Her mother taught her dancing, while her father instilled in her a love for R&B music. Growing up, Amerie had the opportunity to travel to many countries, which enriched her cultural knowledge and language skills. In 2002, Amerie entered the entertainment industry with her debut single, "Why Don't We Fall in Love," and her first album, All I Have. Both were successful, with "Why Don't We Fall in Love" ranking in the top 20 of Billboard's R&B/Hip-Hop Songs and Top 40 Pop Songs of the year. Three years later, she released her second album, Touch, featuring the hit track "1 Thing," which quickly became a favorite among young fans. That same year, she earned two Grammy nominations: Best Pop Vocal Performance by a Female Artist and Best R&B Album for Touch.

Additional Information:

• Date of Birth: 01/12/1980
• Hometown: Washington, USA
• Albums: Touch (2005), Because I Love It (2007), In Love & War (2009), Drive (2016), All I Have (2002)
• Notable Tracks: Why Don't We Fall in Love (2002), 1 Thing, Talikin' to Me (2002), Gotta Work (2007), Heard 'Em All (2009), Pretty Brown (2009), Out Loud (2016), Come with Me (2005),...

At the beginning of the 2000s, Mariah Carey's career seemed to stall with two albums, "Glitter" and "Charmbracelet," that were commercially unsuccessful, leading critics to question if her time had passed. However, she made a remarkable comeback with the album "The Emancipation of Mimi," which achieved massive success, earning six platinum certifications and becoming one of the best-selling albums in history. The song "We Belong Together" topped the Billboard Hot 100 for 14 consecutive weeks, cementing Mariah Carey's place in music legend. Mariah Carey is a celebrated American pop singer known for her extraordinary vocal range. She became one of the most successful female artists of the 1990s and continued to enjoy fame in the early 2000s. In 1991, she won Grammy Awards for Best New Artist and Best Pop Vocal Performance. Her following albums, "Music Box" (1993) and "Daydream" (1995), each sold over 10 million copies in the United States.

Additional Information:

• Date of Birth: 03/27/1970
• Hometown: Huntington, New York, USA
• Albums: Glitter (2001), Charmbracelet (2002), The Emancipation of Mimi (2005, 6x Platinum), E=MC2 (2008), Memoirs of An Imperfect Angel (2009)
• Notable Tracks: "Thank God I Found You" (2000), "We Belong Together" (2005), "Don’t Forget About Us" (2005), "Touch My Body" (2008)