rhythm and blues

noun

: popular music typically including elements of blues and African American folk music and marked by a strong beat and simple chord structure

Examples of rhythm and blues in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Home Rule Music Festival Part II Listen to rhythm and blues music from local bands 1pm Saturday at Alethia Tanner Park. Analis Bailey, Axios, 24 Oct. 2024 Shane thrilled audiences with her infectious and gender-straddling performances that blended the energy of rock and roll with the soul of rhythm and blues. Dan Allen, NBC News, 20 Sep. 2024 The event’s first day includes a bridge skirmish over a creek and Brass from the Past covering Motown, pop, jazz, rhythm and blues, soul, rock and funk. Jessi Virtusio, Chicago Tribune, 3 Sep. 2024 Berry greatly overhauled it with his unique twists on rhythm and blues. Jim Farber, EW.com, 23 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for rhythm and blues 

Word History

First Known Use

1933, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rhythm and blues was in 1933

Dictionary Entries Near rhythm and blues

Cite this Entry

“Rhythm and blues.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rhythm%20and%20blues. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

rhythm and blues

noun
: popular music with elements of blues and African American folk music

More from Merriam-Webster on rhythm and blues

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!