Classic Western R&B songs to listen to in autumn

GlowRick James ft. Smokey Robinson

Rick James – Glow

It’s the title track from Rick James’s 1985 album “Glow,” known for his hit “Super Freak.” Featuring the legendary figure of Black music, Smokey Robinson, it delivers powerful instrumentation alongside smooth, soulful vocals.

Forever My LadyJodeci

Jodeci – Forever My Lady

This is the song of the same name as the album title, included on Jodeci’s debut album “Forever My Lady,” released in 1991.

It features powerful vocals reminiscent of gospel and hymns, complemented by gentle, memorable harmonies.

Worst Case ScenarioJoe

Joe – Worst Case Scenario

This is a song included on Joe’s 2009 album “Signature.” The track was released as a single the following year and has become quite popular.

Why not let Joe’s beautiful voice soothe you?

Come round hereThe Miracles

The Miracles – (Come ‘Round Here) I’m the One You Need

This is a track included on the Miracles’ 1966 album “Away We a Go-Go,” a group also well known for featuring Smokey Robinson.

While it has a retro, nostalgic feel, it doesn’t sound dated at all—an elegant and sophisticated classic soul song that you wouldn’t believe was released 52 years ago.

SOS (Sex on Sight)Victoria Monét

Victoria Monét, USHER – SOS (Sex on Sight) (feat. USHER) (Audio)

Victoria Monét is a Grammy-nominated, powerhouse singer-songwriter.

This track is a playful, sexy R&B number.

The American artist has crafted hit songs for industry heavyweights, including Ariana Grande’s “Thank U, Next.” Here, she welcomes Usher—an icon of classic R&B—as a guest, channeling an urgency in both physical love and emotion, to the point of likening it to a rescue from a natural disaster.

Released in August 2024, the song is the lead single from the deluxe edition of the album Jaguar II.

Romantic and timeless, it’s perfect for anyone nursing a bittersweet, end-of-summer crush.

So SickNe-Yo

Ne-Yo – So Sick (Official Music Video)

As a representative American R&B singer-songwriter beloved around the world, Ne-Yo continues to captivate the music scene with sophisticated tracks that skillfully blend pop and hip-hop elements into a foundation of traditional R&B.

He made his debut in 2006 with the album “In My Own Words,” which reached No.

1 on the US Billboard 200.

Since then, he has released numerous hit songs and has achieved remarkable accolades, including three Grammy Awards.

Renowned for his exceptional vocal ability and nuanced emotional expression, he has also earned high praise for writing songs for artists such as Rihanna and Beyoncé.

Ne-Yo’s elegant, stylish musicality and heartfelt lyrics make his work especially recommended for those seeking the comfort of an emotionally rich voice.

U Got It BadUsher

Usher – U Got It Bad (Official Video)

Usher, a towering figure in the American R&B scene, has created countless legendary performances with his smooth tenor voice and breathtaking dance skills.

He debuted in 1994 at age 16 with the album “Usher.” His 2004 release “Confessions” became a worldwide smash, selling over 20 million copies.

With a musical sensibility that effortlessly spans R&B, pop, soul, and hip-hop, and a richly expressive voice exceeding three octaves, he has earned numerous accolades, including eight Grammy Awards.

At the 2024 Super Bowl, he delivered an overwhelming performance that captivated 123 million viewers.

A peerless entertainer, he’s highly recommended for music fans who seek the fusion of delicate vocal expression and dynamic stagecraft.