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

peter pan.Brent Faiyaz

Brent Faiyaz – peter pan. (Official Audio)

Here’s a new track from Brent Faiyaz, the hugely popular American R&B singer known for taking the No.

2 spot on the U.

S.

charts with his album Wasteland.

He sings about the struggle of growing up and the love he feels for his partner, mapping his wavering heart onto the story of an eternal boy.

The bittersweet feeling of “If only I could be by your side, I could love you with all my heart” resonates through his delicate vocals and warm production.

Released simultaneously with the confident track Tony Soprano, it offers a striking contrast that showcases the artist’s multifaceted appeal.

If you’re wrestling with how close or distant to be with someone important, this song is sure to stay by your side.

BravefaceHalle

Halle – Braveface (Official Video)

Halle from the United States—whose lead role in the live-action film The Little Mermaid is still fresh in our memories—has proven talent, with five Grammy nominations as part of the duo Chloe x Halle with her sister.

Let me introduce a solo track she released in June 2025.

It brilliantly portrays the inner struggle of acknowledging a shattering vulnerability while still putting on a brave face.

The sound blends soulful vocals with ethereal beats for a soothing listen, and it’s easy to be drawn into her rich expressiveness.

It feels like a song that gently stays close to the pain behind a strong front—perfect for times when you want to face your anxieties.

Really Wanna Be With YouDurand Jones & The Indications

Durand Jones & The Indications – Really Wanna Be With You

The American band Durand Jones & The Indications, who carry the spirit of vintage soul into the present, have crafted a bittersweet number about trying to overcome heartache through dance.

It’s a track from their fourth album, Flowers, released in June 2025.

Rather than lamenting the unshakable feelings for someone they “truly want to be with,” they elevate them on an elegant groove instead of turning them into sorrow—pure, mature adult emotion.

On a night when you want to sit quietly with your thoughts, let this smooth sound wash over you—it just might gently keep you company in your sentimental mood.

Oh WellRich Brian

Oh Well

A deeply introspective number crafted by Indonesia-born Rich Brian.

The piece seems to portray a bittersweet acceptance and quiet resolve—like murmuring “well, it is what it is” in the face of an unchangeable reality.

Marking a sharp turn from his early comedic persona, its melancholic, Alternative R&B-leaning sound highlights his remarkable growth.

Released in June 2025, the track is a lead single from the album “Where Is My Head?” and also drew attention for being performed before roughly 40,000 people at an LA festival.

It’s the kind of song that, on a night when nothing goes your way, gently loosens the tension in your chest.

The MoodFLO x Kaytranada

FLO x Kaytranada – The Mood (Visualiser)

It’s a groovy number by London’s buzzworthy R&B trio FLO and Canadian producer Kaytranada.

FLO, whose debut album Access All Areas reached the UK Top 3, joins forces with Kaytranada, a two-time winner at the 2021 Grammy Awards.

Over a comfortable house beat and shuffling drums, FLO’s lustrous harmonies glide effortlessly.

The song captures the honest feeling of a night when you’re just not in the mood.

It’s funny how that delicate truth—“I’m just not feeling it right now”—can sound like a stylish, self-respecting statement when set to such chic production.

Whether you’re unwinding alone on a summer night or cruising with friends, this track might help you embrace your authentic self.

Lady LadyOlivia Dean

Olivia Dean – Lady Lady

It’s a song that embraces your ever-changing self and celebrates the strength within.

Olivia Dean, a talented singer-songwriter from the UK whose debut album Messy was nominated for the 2023 Mercury Prize, delivers just that.

The feelings of natural change that come with growing as a woman, and the trust in being your authentic self, offer a comforting sense of being cradled by Mother Nature.

Listening to this track—featured on her second album The Art of Loving, set for release in September 2025—might even make you feel a tender affection for your own evolution.

Heart Don’t LieCoi Leray

Coi Leray – Heart Don’t Lie

The song released in November 2024 by American rapper and singer-songwriter Coi Leray is a captivating track that blends elements of hip-hop and R&B.

Its emotionally rich lyrics, centered on themes of love and sincerity, leave a strong impression, showcasing Coi Leray’s versatility and vocal prowess to the fullest.

The production features contributions from Gamal Lewis and Johnny Goldstein.

As a follow-up to the EP “Lemon Cars,” released in May 2024, the new track has drawn attention and appears to be receiving high praise from fans.

Emphasizing the importance of following one’s inner voice, the song speaks to listeners struggling with love and relationships, offering comfort and resonance.