By the mid 50s, rock ‘n’ roll was becoming a highly popular genre, with many of its leading artists such as Little Richard and James Brown belonging equally to R&B. Due to the simultaneous development of R&B and rock ‘n’ roll in the 50s, the genres were almost indiscernible during this period. However, in the 60s when rock went in a heavier, more psychedelic direction, R&B pursued a more polished sound. The year 1960 also demonstrated R&B’s diversification with singers such as Sam Cooke and the label Motown Records taking the genre in new directions that led to notable styles. Classic R&B shares many characteristics with rock ‘n’ roll. The instrumentation is often guitar based, with accompanying double bass, drums, piano, vocals and sometimes a saxophone. There is also a heavy blues influence and sometimes elements of gospel traditions.