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

ENVYChris Grey

Chris Grey – ENVY (from King of Envy) [Official Lyric Video]

Chris Gray, hailing from Toronto, Canada, develops a distinctive musical style centered on alternative R&B.

His appeal lies in a one-of-a-kind sound that skillfully weaves elements of hard rock and classical music into R&B.

His new work, released in April 2025, was written as the official soundtrack for Ana Huang’s novel “King of Envy.” The lyrics, themed around emotions such as past relationships and jealousy, are deeply connected to the relationship between Vic and Ayana, characters in the novel.

He has previously released the album “THE CASTLE NEVER FALLS” and the EP series “CHAPTER I: DESIRE.” His acclaim has been rapidly rising, including three Grammy wins in 2023.

Effortlessly transcending genre boundaries, his music is perfect for listeners who value complex emotions and subtle shades of the heart.

Can’t WaitEric Benét & Keri Hilson

Can’t Wait

The long-awaited new track arrived in April 2025 from one of the premier duos in the American R&B scene.

Crafted by Eric Benét and Keri Hilson, the song delivers a groovy disco-R&B vibe that brilliantly captures the excitement before a night out with a lover.

It’s a captivating cut where their smooth vocals complement each other in lush harmony, with producer Camper’s touch shining throughout.

The track serves as the lead single from Benét’s first full-length album in a decade, The Co-Star, released via JBR Creative Group.

The collaboration was reportedly a longtime dream for both artists, and their chemistry is on full display.

For Hilson, it also stands as a significant follow-up to her first album in 15 years, We Need to Talk: Love.

It’s a perfect summer club anthem and a must-hear for fans of sophisticated, mature R&B.

No SecretsJessie J

Jessie J – No Secrets (Official Lyric Video)

Jessie J, the London-born artist known for her powerful, emotive vocals, has released a highly anticipated new single in April 2025—her first in about four years.

Candidly addressing themes of loss, trauma, and the pressure to self-disclose in the age of social media, the song is deeply personal and reflects her own experiences.

Produced by Los Hendrix—renowned for work with SZA and Brent Faiyaz—and Jesse Boykins III, it beautifully fuses soulful alternative R&B elements with a modern sound.

In May, she’s set to follow up with another new track, “Living My Best Life,” and an acoustic show at London’s Union Chapel.

It’s a must-listen for anyone who resonates with an artist who continues to face life’s hardships while staying true to the music.

ILYSMIHKali Uchis

Kali Uchis – ILYSMIH (Visualizer)

In April 2025, Colombian-American singer-songwriter Kali Uchis released a new work whose delicate, motherhood-tinged sound resonates deeply.

Written beside her sleeping young child, the piece marks a departure from her earlier themes of loneliness and independence, instead richly expressing unconditional love for family and a sense of healing.

Its dreamy, soulful textures evoke the atmosphere of her early release Por Vida, while reflecting her new mindset as a mother—a gem of a track.

Included as the final track on her fifth studio album, Sincerely,, it showcases her musical maturation.

Known for her fluid command of English and Spanish and her stylistic range, she opens a new chapter here—perfect for a quiet, relaxing night.

SINCERITYSAILORR

SAILORR “SINCERITY” (Official Visualizer)

Saylor, a promising young R&B singer-songwriter from Florida, released a new single in April 2025.

This track is packed with the charm of smooth, pop-leaning R&B crafted by Kayla, a Vietnamese American artist.

With lyrics centered on sincerity and self-expression woven together with emotive vocals, the song fuses delicate arrangements into a cohesive whole.

Produced by Adam Klevlin, it showcases the musical maturity of an artist with roots in musical theater.

The song is also drawing attention as the lead single from her forthcoming debut album, “FROM FLORIDA’S FINEST.” It’s a must-listen for fans of contemporary R&B in the vein of SZA and Kehlani, and for listeners who value emotional nuance.

Girls Like YouTone Stith

Tone Stith – Girls Like You (Visualizer)

A gem of a love song that paints a soulful cry where Tone Stith’s emotive vocals and modern production from the U.

S.

blend beautifully.

With delicate yet powerful singing, he channels the anguish of a love betrayed and anger at deception.

Included on the EP “P.

O.

V,” released in September 2023, the track reached No.

6 on Billboard’s R&B chart.

Having started drums at age three and later mastering piano and guitar, his musical sensibilities fuse classic R&B elements with contemporary beats.

His talent is well established—he was nominated for Best New Artist at the 2021 Soul Train Music Awards.

It’s the perfect track for healing the pain of heartbreak or releasing the emotions buried deep within.

Headphones OnAddison Rae

Addison Rae – Headphones On (Official Video)

This graceful track blends a sophisticated fusion of R&B and trip-hop with captivating vocals.

Addison Rae, a native of Louisiana in the United States, began her music career after gaining popularity on TikTok and made her official debut in 2021.

Released in April 2025, this song is the fourth single from her debut album “AR,” seamlessly pairing introspective lyrics with high-quality production recorded at Max Martin’s studio in Sweden.

The music video is also a must-see: filmed in Reykjavík, Iceland, its dreamlike visuals further enhance the song’s immersive atmosphere.