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Music genre

British soul

British soul is a music genre that emerged in United Kingdom. It is usually classed as a form of soul and music of the United Kingdom. Explore key artists and related styles.

About British soul

British soul is a music genre that emerged in United Kingdom. It is usually classed as a form of soul and music of the United Kingdom.

Among the best-known names in the style are Jay Sean.

From Wikipedia

British soul, Brit soul, or (in an American context) the British soul invasion, is soul music performed by British artists. Soul has been a major influence on British popular music since the 1960s, and American soul was extremely popular among some youth subcultures, such as mods, skinheads, and the Northern soul movement. In the 1970s, soul gained more mainstream popularity in the UK during the disco era.

However, a clear genre of British soul did not emerge until the 1980s, when a number of black and white artists who made soul their major focus, influenced by contemporary R&B, began to enjoy some commercial success. British soul artists began gaining popularity in the United States in the late 2000s, resulting in another British Invasion, this time a soul invasion (in contrast to the 1960s rock and pop, and 1980s new wave and synthpop invasions).

Genre family tree

Parent genres (↑) and subgenres (↓) of British soul.

Key artists

  • Jay Sean

Related genres

Frequently asked questions

What is British soul?

British soul is a music genre that emerged in United Kingdom. It is usually classed as a form of soul and music of the United Kingdom.

Where and when did British soul originate?

British soul originated in United Kingdom.

Who are famous British soul artists?

Jay Sean.

Sources & credits