Lovely R&B and soul

Classic Western R&B songs to listen to in autumn

Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
Under the theme of “vocal skills that stand up on the world stage,” I have experience teaching as an online vocal coach specializing in Western music, and I usually listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. In my teens, I questioned the idea that “foreign music equals English,” and started exploring songs from around the world. My commentary is characterized by a unique perspective shaped by listening to music of every genre, in every language, from every country. I mainly cover world music, so be sure to check it out!

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 (41–50)

Same BeatThe J.B.’s

Same Beat – Fred Wesley & The JBs PART 1 & 2

Same BeatThe J.B.'s

This is a track included on the album “Damn Right I Am Somebody,” released in 1974.

The J.

B.

’s were James Brown’s backing band in the early 1970s.

It’s a funky song with a memorable, repeating guitar riff and lyrics.

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How You Gonna Act Like ThatTyrese

Tyrese – How You Gonna Act Like That (Video)

How You Gonna Act Like ThatTyrese

Tyrese Gibson is an R&B singer.

In recent years, he’s also been active as an actor, appearing in films like the Fast & Furious series, so many people may associate him more with that image.

The classic love song he created is I Wanna Go There.

This track is included on his third album, I Wanna Go There.

Pay attention to the straightforward, love-filled lyrics as you listen.

The music video, with its sunlit warmth, is a perfect fit for autumn.

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4 Seasons Of LonelinessBoyz II Men

Boyz II Men – 4 Seasons Of Loneliness (Official Music Video)

4 Seasons Of LonelinessBoyz II Men

This is a song included on the album Evolution, released in 1997 by the R&B vocal group Boyz II Men.

The song is themed around the four seasons, reflecting on love for a partner and feelings of loneliness while passing through each of the seasons.

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I Miss YouAaron Hall

Aaron Hall – I Miss You

I Miss YouAaron Hall

Aaron Hall’s R&B ballad “I Miss You” is a song about the sorrow of losing a loved one.

It’s a love song to his wife, who tragically lost her life in exchange for giving birth to their child.

Released as a single in 1993, it reached No.

2 on the US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.

With programmed bass and drum sounds that are quintessentially ’90s R&B, it’s a superb ballad that perfectly matches the melancholic atmosphere of autumn.

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Can’t Let GoAnthony Hamilton

Anthony Hamilton – Can’t Let Go (Official HD Video)

Can't Let GoAnthony Hamilton

Anthony Hamilton is one of the leading singers in the R&B world.

He was even invited by President Obama to perform at the White House.

In 2005, he released the song “Can’t Let Go.” The track features Mark Batson, known as both a singer and a producer.

Thanks to that collaboration, the lyrics, the track, and the vocals all come together to create a flawless piece of work.

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Tell MeBilal

Bilal – Tell Me (Visualizer)

Tell MeBilal

Bilal, a highly skilled R&B singer celebrated by many critics for his originality, continues to break new ground with music that, while rooted in jazz and soul, incorporates elements of electronic sound.

Among his works, a track that’s especially perfect for autumn appears on his album Adjust Brightness, released in September 2024.

Within its mellow atmosphere, the song weaves in complex beats and sonic textures.

Created with the intention of expressing the “frequency of love,” this piece is recommended for music fans seeking deep emotion.

Be sure to check it out.

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I’ll Make Love To YouBoyz II Men

Boyz II Men – I’ll Make Love To You (Official Music Video)

I'll Make Love To YouBoyz II Men

A music genre with strong choral elements—vocal harmony.

The group that brought many classic songs incorporating this style into R&B is the four-member Boyz II Men.

One of their best-known tracks is “I’ll Make Love to You.” The song centers on a romantic night with a loved one, and its lyrics and gentle vocals complement each other perfectly.

When you listen, be sure to pay attention to the lyrics as well.

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