RAG MusicR&B-Soul
Lovely R&B and soul
search

Classic Western R&B songs to listen to in autumn

Japan has four distinct seasons, and with the greenery turning red in autumn, many people may find themselves wanting to listen to calmer music that suits the scenery.

For those listeners, we’ve selected Western R&B with a touch of melancholy.

From tranquil R&B with a delicate feel to tracks wrapped in a sensual mood, we’ve picked songs from a wide range of styles.

There are brand-new releases as well, so if you love R&B and soul, please relax and enjoy to the very end.

Classic Western R&B songs to listen to in autumn (71–80)

A House Is Not a HomeLuther Vandross

Luther Vandross – A House Is Not a Home (Live from Wembley)
A House Is Not a HomeLuther Vandross

This is a track included on Luther Vandross’s 1981 solo debut album, Never Too Much.

The original version of the song was released by Dionne Warwick in 1964, and Luther covered it.

It’s a classic that has also been covered by artists such as Stevie Wonder, and it became one of Luther Vandross’s signature songs.

Must Be NiceLyfe Jennings

On long autumn nights, we sometimes find ourselves thinking deeply about our lives.

The song I’d like to introduce for such moments is “Must Be Nice,” created by Lyfe Jennings, who is also a guitarist.

The title “Must Be Nice” carries the sense of “if only things were that way,” and the song reflects on what makes for a good life and what truly matters in life.

It’s also recommended as a soothing piece, thanks to Lyfe Jennings’s gentle singing accompanied by guitar.

My MoodM.F.S.B.

This is a track by the band M.

F.

S.

B.

, who were active in the 1970s, included on their 1975 album Universal Love.

As the closing number of the album, it’s a mature piece with a calm, refined atmosphere.

Western R&B classics to listen to in autumn (81–90)

Endless NightMaeta

Meita’s latest work stands out with its laid-back vibe and comforting beat.

With gentle vocals, it expresses the desire to let the magical feeling of the night last forever.

It’s the title track from an EP released last June, and its collaboration with the popular producer Kaytranada drew a lot of attention.

Seamlessly blending dance music and R&B, the song is perfect for a relaxed late-night drive.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to with someone special on a long autumn night.

Be sure to check out this release, which is packed with Meita’s charm.

Flyin High Mercy,Mercy MeMarvin Gaye

Marvin Gaye – LIVE “Flyin High & Mercy Mercy Me” – At Radio City Music Hall 1974
Flyin High Mercy,Mercy MeMarvin Gaye

This is a medley featured on Marvin Gaye’s 1974 album “Marvin Gaye Live!,” by the artist known for being selected as one of the 100 greatest singers in history.

Listening to Marvin Gaye’s emotionally charged live performance while you work might help boost your concentration.

U Should’ve Known BetterMonica

Monica – U Should’ve Known Better (Official Video)
U Should've Known BetterMonica

When it comes to iconic American female R&B singers, Monica surely comes to mind.

She’s a legendary figure who has even won the Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance.

Her ballad “U Should’ve Known Better,” which she created around the theme of the pain of being separated from a loved one, reflects that depth.

The song appears on two albums: All Eyez on Me and After the Storm.

In fact, the version included on the latter features additional arrangement changes.

Ruined MeMuni Long

Muni Long – Ruined Me (Visualizer)
Ruined MeMuni Long

This work has drawn attention as a ballad that powerfully conveys the pain of heartbreak.

Released in July 2024 and slated for inclusion on the album “Revenge,” it features a rich sound woven from piano and strings, over which Muni Long’s emotionally expressive vocals resonate.

The lyrics, centered on wounds of the heart and loss, are sure to deeply move listeners.

It’s a track that fully showcases the talent of Grammy-winning Muni Long.

Recommended for those looking to soothe the ache of a breakup or enjoy sophisticated, mellow R&B.

It might be the perfect song to savor on a long autumn night.