Final answer:
R&B artists contributed to the civil rights movement by blurring racial lines with the advent of rock and roll, challenging segregation, using their music and influence to support civil rights causes, and fostering a sense of pride and empowerment within the African-American community.
Step-by-step explanation:
R&B artists contributed to the civil rights movement in the postwar years in several significant ways. By merging different cultural sounds and appealing to a wider, more diverse audience, R&B music played a pivotal role in blurring racial lines during the rise of rock and roll. This blurred boundary between 'black' and 'white' genres of music fostered a new sense of unity and helped to challenge the status quo of segregation. The birth of rock and roll, importantly related to the R&B genre, provided a platform for integration as fans of different races came together to enjoy the music.
Additionally, many R&B artists became prominent figures in supporting civil rights causes through their music and public actions. Lyrics often reflected the desires for equality and freedom, while performances at key civil rights events helped raise awareness and funds for the movement. Artists of the era like Ray Charles and James Brown used their influence and music to address social issues, directly impacting the cultural landscape and empowering the African-American community.
Finally, the success and popularity of African American R&B artists helped to foster a sense of pride and empowerment within the black community. This cultural renaissance, reminiscent of the earlier Harlem Renaissance, saw music as more than just entertainment, but as a vehicle for social change and political activism. As R&B music crossed over into mainstream American culture, it helped to pave the way for greater acceptance and pushed for the end of legal racial segregation and discrimination.