In addition to being a guest vocalist on projects with Ray Charles, Robert Randolph and Moby, the L.A.-launched songstress has had a steady presence on the adult R&B charts. (Billboard has a chart for every subgenre, it seems.) Dubbed the goddaughter of soul by Etta James (no relation), the molasses-voiced singer is known for “Don’t Want You Back,” “Set Me Free” and the romantic “Fall for You,” a favorite at weddings (see Simone Biles and Jonathan Owens). James’ ninth album, 2023′s “Thought U Knew,” reflects her Gemini personality, from the resilient title track to the album cover featuring her Cruella de Ville hairdo — half black, half white. (STAR TRIBUNE)