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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 (31–40)

New NormalKhalid

Khalid – New Normal (Official Video)
New NormalKhalid

Facing the unprecedented circumstances of the pandemic, our lives changed dramatically.

Khalid, an artist from the United States, gently wraps the emotions and inner struggles of that time in his warm, soothing vocals.

Released in July 2021 as the lead single from the album “Everything Is Changing,” this song celebrates the courage and hope to accept change and keep moving forward.

Its sound is groovy and moody, while also infused with futuristic elements.

The fact that it premiered at Virgin Galactic’s spaceship launch event further symbolizes its innovative worldview.

It is a song I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone at a turning point in life or about to take a new step.

This Time I’ll Be SweeterAngela Bofill

Angela Bofill – This Time I’ll Be Sweeter
This Time I'll Be SweeterAngela Bofill

This is a song included on Angela Bofill’s 1978 album “Angie.” Released as a single from the album, the track is characteristic of her style as an R&B and jazz singer-songwriter.

Practice What You PreachBarry White

Barry White – Practice What You Preach (Official Music Video)
Practice What You PreachBarry White

This song is included on Barry White’s 1994 album “The Icon Is Love,” by the artist known for hits like “Love’s Theme.” It topped the US R&B chart for three consecutive weeks and became a major hit on the pop chart, peaking at number 18.

AngelAretha Franklin

This is a single cut from the album “Hey Now Hey (The Other Side of the Sky),” released in 1973 by Aretha Franklin, known as the Queen of Soul.

It’s a soulful song, and Aretha’s gentle vocals are pleasing to the ear.

DFMUElla Mai

Ella Mai – DFMU (Official Music Video)
DFMUElla Mai

Ella Mai, the artist who won a Grammy for Boo’d Up in 2017, released the single DFMU in 2022.

It was produced by Mustard, the music producer who discovered her, and its heavy, deep sound is seriously cool.

The lyrics, which depict the feeling of sinking deeper into love, add a mature vibe.

The music video ties in with the lyrics as well, so definitely give it a watch!

Classic Western R&B songs to listen to in autumn (41–50)

Be Without YouMary J Blige

Mary J. Blige – Be Without You (Official Music Video)
Be Without YouMary J Blige

Mary J.

Blige, known for bringing hip-hop elements into R&B, often raps and is even called the Queen of Hip-Hop.

One of her tender love songs is Be Without You.

The track is notable for its strong storytelling, leaving you with a sense of satisfaction like after watching a film.

It’s also packed with highlights, including key changes from the middle to the end.

I Don’t wanna FeelPhajja

This is a track included on Faya’s 1997 album “Seize The Moment,” released by the contemporary R&B trio.

It’s a quintessential song of the era that blends hip-hop and R&B styles, and the three members’ vocal harmonies are excellent.