A classic R&B masterpiece. A must-listen recommended album.
The genre “R&B” began to take hold around the 1970s.
Even though we call it R&B, its style has changed with each era, and by now I think it’s a genre with a rather fuzzy definition.
For this piece, I’ll define R&B as “groovy tracks packed with vocal techniques often used in R&B, like ad-libs and runs,” and introduce some classic R&B albums!
While I’m including a few major tracks, I’ve also picked out some extremely obscure songs that even hardcore R&B aficionados in Japan probably don’t know—so be sure to check them out!
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R&B Masterpieces: Must-Listen Recommended Albums (41–50)
UmbrellaRihanna
It was released as the lead single from her third album, Good Girl Gone Bad.
The song was originally written for Britney Spears, but after her label rejected it, Rihanna ended up recording it.
It went on to win two awards at the MTV Music Awards.
R&B Masterpieces: Must-Listen Recommended Albums (51–60)
Freak Like MeAdina Howard
An R&B song released as a single in 1995 from Michigan singer Adina Howard’s debut album, “Do You Wanna Ride?”.
It samples the hook and riff from Kool & the Gang’s 1974 hit “Summer Madness.”
(No One Knows Me) Like The PianoSampha
A track from the debut album “Process,” released in 2017 by the British musician Sampha.
Inspired by his childhood, it was written in late 2014 when he returned to his South London hometown to encourage his mother, who had developed cancer.
Real LoveMary J Blige
An edgy song in search of true love.
It was released as a single in 1992 by American singer Mary J.
Blige.
It samples the drum sound from Audio Two’s 1987 hit “Top Billin.” The song was covered in 2004 by Toby Lightman.
LonelyAkon
A song that uses Bobby Vinton’s oldies track “Mr.
Lonely,” it was the hit that first propelled him to worldwide fame as an artist.
It reached number one in seven countries, including Australia and Denmark.
This classic showcases his uniquely gritty, persistent vocal style as a Senegalese-American artist.
You’re Makin’ Me HIghToni Braxton
A song released in 1996 as a double A-side single along with “Let It Flow.” It reached No.
1 on the R&B/Hip-Hop chart and won a Grammy Award in 1997.
The music video features appearances by actress Tisha Campbell-Martin, among others.
At Your Best (You Are Love)Aaliyah
Originally written and recorded by the Isley Brothers for their mother.
In 1994, it was covered as a slow jam on American singer Aaliyah’s debut album, “Age Ain’t Nothing but a Number.” R.
Kelly was involved in the production.