Classic R&B songs recommended for women
This time, we’ve carefully selected classic R&B tracks especially recommended for women.
From songs you’ll want to play on a night drive with the breeze on your face, to tunes that color the quiet moments when you’re alone and reflecting—this lineup offers a variety you can enjoy in different settings.
Poignant lyrics and refined melodies are sure to turn everyday moments into something special.
Take a brief escape from your busy days and peek into a slightly more grown-up world of music.
You’re sure to find a new favorite!
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R&B Classics Recommended for Women (11–20)
You Gotta Be (’99 Mix)Des’ree
A masterpiece where a soul-stirring, powerful message merges with a soothing melody.
Centered on self-improvement and positive thinking, it gives you the courage to face life’s challenges.
Des’ree’s smooth vocals resonate deeply with listeners.
Released in 1999, this remix reinterprets the charm of the original with a fresh arrangement.
That same year, it was also featured in a Ford Focus commercial, drawing even more attention.
It’s the perfect track for moments when you want to reflect—like on a nighttime drive or when you’re alone.
When your heart is uncertain, this work will gently nudge you forward.
Miss IndependentNe-Yo
Celebrated as an anthem for independent women, this song has captured the hearts of many.
The lyrics portray the allure of a confident woman, emphasizing her self-discipline and independence.
Blending Ne-Yo’s sophisticated sound with mature songwriting, the track was released in August 2008 and went on to win two Grammy Awards the following year.
Featured on the album “Year of the Gentleman,” it also performed well on the charts.
In Japan, it became widely familiar through its use as a theme song for a TV Kanagawa program.
It’s a perfect pick for savoring a grown-up vibe—whether on a nighttime drive or during some time alone.
Shy GuyDiana King
A song that delicately portrays a woman’s emotions brings out the full charm of Diana King.
The protagonist’s desire for a shy, devoted man resonates alongside a distinctive sound that fuses reggae and R&B.
Released in March 1995, the track appears on her debut album, Tougher Than Love, and was also used as the theme song for the film Bad Boys.
It became an international smash hit and was certified Gold in the United States.
It’s a perfect pick for mature women—something you’ll want to play on a quiet night drive or during time alone.
Girl on FireAlicia Keys
A powerful ballad themed around female strength and self-liberation resounds with Alicia Keys’s vocals.
Portraying a woman who, despite facing hardship, believes in her own power and moves forward with passion, this work gives listeners courage and inspiration.
Released in September 2012 as the lead single from Alicia Keys’s fifth studio album, it was premiered at the MTV Video Music Awards on September 6, 2012, drawing major attention.
It’s perfect for a nighttime drive or for listening alone in quiet moments.
Recommended for times when you want to face yourself or need the courage to take a new step.
Sex With MeRihanna
A track that sings about a fantasy with a stranger.
It was released in 2017 by Rihanna, a singer-songwriter from Barbados.
Canadian rapper and singer-songwriter PartyNextDoor was involved in its production.
We Belong TogetherMariah Carey
This is a masterpiece that expresses the yearning to win back a lost love with overwhelming vocal prowess.
Known as one of Mariah Carey’s signature songs, it was released as a single in March 2005.
Included on the album “The Emancipation of Mimi,” it achieved great success, spending 14 consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The song portrays a woman who regrets breaking up with her lover and longs to be together again.
Its lyrics, filled with deep sorrow and aching tenderness, and Mariah’s emotionally rich vocals resonate powerfully with listeners.
It’s a recommended track when you want to heal the pain of heartbreak or reaffirm your feelings for someone special.
Classic R&B songs recommended for women (21–30)
Take ControlTasha Mac
Many listeners are surely captivated by its sexy, sensual sound and vocals that balance strength with vulnerability.
This track is by Tasha Mack, a singer from Canada based in Los Angeles.
It seems to portray a powerful resolve to take the lead in love and in life.
It will make anyone who listens feel, “I want to carve out my future with my own hands.” Released in March 2022, the song fuses the soul of classic R&B with a modern sheen, giving you the courage to take a step forward on your own.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to quietly on nights when you long to change your circumstances.