[Latest] Quick Guide to Trends in Western R&B Music [2025]

in plain sightKhalid

Khalid – in plain sight (Official Video)

Since earning wide acclaim with his debut album, American Teen, singer-songwriter Khalid has been at the forefront of the R&B scene.

He has now released the lead track from his upcoming album, After the Sun Goes Down, slated for October 2025.

Marking a departure from his previous chill sound, this new work is an exhilarating dance-pop track, shimmering with synths that evoke ’80s disco.

In contrast to its lyrics about breaking away from betrayal, the sound feels boundlessly liberating—an intriguing juxtaposition.

It’s a powerful statement of self-liberation from an artist who, in November 2024, shared his true self with fans.

This is a track that can give you courage when you want to shake off the past and take a step forward.

Nice ShoesSteve Lacy

Steve Lacy – Nice Shoes (Lyric Video)

Steve Lacy, an artist who commands immense popularity in the alternative R&B scene, is also known as a member of The Internet, and as a solo act he proved his talent by winning a Grammy with his 2023 album Gemini Rights.

His first new track in three years, released in August 2025, is a song that shows his artistry has evolved even further.

The sound—where breakbeats in the intro intertwine with gritty guitars and a whistling-like synth—impressively fuses indie rock and electronica.

The lyrics depict the restlessness and loneliness of youth, expressing the urge to spill one’s true feelings and the inner conflict of holding them back.

It’s a deep, contemplative track you’ll want to sit with on introspective nights.

Sweet SerotoninAmber Mark

Amber Mark – Sweet Serotonin (Official Music Video)

Amber Mark is an American singer-songwriter drawing attention with music born from her multicultural background.

A true talent with a Grammy nomination to her name, she delivers a song that embodies the very thrill of irresistible, honeyed love—likened to the brain’s happiness-inducing chemicals.

The soulful groove and breezy beat thump like the heartbeat of someone head over heels, making your pulse race.

Even her straightforward expressions of love feel strangely special when wrapped in her supple, velvety vocals.

Released in July 2025, the track arrives as anticipation builds for her guest appearance on Sabrina Carpenter’s tour.

Perfect for those moments when you want to savor the effervescent feeling of a new romance.

FrequencyD Smoke & Lucky Daye

Frequency

This track is a collaboration between D Smoke, a California rapper with the unique background of being a former teacher, and R&B singer Lucky Daye.

The sophisticated guitar and jazzy horns intertwine beautifully, perfectly complementing their smooth vocals.

Hearing lyrics that seem to invite listeners to resonate on a higher frequency may make many want to step away from the daily hustle and sharpen their senses.

Released in August 2025, this song showcases undeniable talent—Lucky Daye, for instance, won a Grammy for his classic album “Algorithm.” It’s the perfect piece to help you forget the urban bustle and fully immerse yourself in music within a quiet space.

full moon. (fall in tokyo)Brent Faiyaz

Brent Faiyaz – full moon. (fall in tokyo)

Brent Faiyaz, an American artist whose sweet yet slightly shadowy vocals captivate listeners, is known for his Grammy-nominated collaboration with GoldLink and for his 2022 album Wasteland, which reached No.

2 in the U.

S.

Released in August 2025, this track is a dreamy R&B ballad set in autumnal Tokyo and serves as a lead single from his upcoming album ICON, due out in September.

Imagining the romantic scene of two people drawing closer under the moonlight will surely make many hearts ache.

It’s the perfect song for sinking into a sentimental mood while gazing at the city lights.

Been A MinuteLeigh-Anne

Leigh-Anne – Been A Minute (Official)

Leigh-Anne, known as a member of Little Mix, one of the UK’s leading girl groups, has released a new track that stands out with a dancehall sound sampling a classic house hit from 2001—just listening to it puts you in a festive, summer carnival mood.

The song carries a powerful message of “freedom” and “self-affirmation,” as she steps away from a major label to joyfully embrace her Caribbean roots.

Coming on the heels of her May 2024 EP, No Hard Feelings, her music feels even freer than before, and anyone looking to break loose and take on new challenges will surely find courage in it.

Believe in MagicJessie J

Jessie J – Believe in Magic (Official)

Jessie J, one of the United Kingdom’s leading singer-songwriters, is still fresh in our memories for the global hit “Bang Bang,” her collaboration with Ariana Grande and others.

Her first single in about seven years is a pop number released in August 2025.

Written during her pregnancy, the track is rooted in pop and R&B while powerfully reflecting her outlook on life, resulting in an emotional piece.

The lyrics shine a light on the fragility of life and the small joys of everyday moments—an outpouring of her soul that has gained even greater depth through recent experiences with childbirth and confronting her own health.

Her vocals aren’t just powerful; they’re warm and embracing, sure to give a gentle push to anyone ready to take a new step forward in life.