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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Classic R&B albums: must-listen recommendations (1–10)
Really LoveD’Angelo
D’Angelo, a pioneer of the genre known as neo-soul—which blends R&B with various styles like hip-hop, funk, and jazz—has earned acclaim for his exceptional artistry and is popular even in France, which is considered to have the highest standards for Black music.
After a long hiatus, he resumed his full-fledged activities as an artist, beginning with the release of the acclaimed classic Black Messiah.
When It Hurts So BadLauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill, former lead vocalist of the Fugees.
She’s an artist who helped propel the neo-soul genre by blending R&B and hip-hop, and after going solo she has continued to receive very high acclaim, especially among women.
In Japan, she became well-known for her leading role in Sister Act 2.
Her masterpiece, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, is a work deeply influenced by the great artist Nina Simone.
She’s a performer of exceptional ability even in the U.
S.
If you’re looking for high-caliber, sophisticated tracks, be sure to check out this album.
Water Runs DryBoyz II Men
Boyz II Men are a vocal group that has gained popularity for their exceptionally high-level vocal technique and catchy R&B sound.
They’ve appeared on Japanese media several times, so many people in Japan have probably heard their songs at least once.
Their classic album “II,” released in 1994, includes their hit songs “On Bended Knee” and “I’ll Make Love to You.” This time, I introduced one of my top recommendations from that album: “Water Runs Dry.”
7 DaysCraig David
Craig David is an R&B singer from the United Kingdom.
His smooth, easy-listening R&B has earned high praise worldwide.
As a vocalist, he’s known for his distinctive flow and excels at delivering crisp, rap-like lyrics.
His acclaimed classic album “Born to Do It,” released in 2000, includes his hit songs “7 Days” and “Fill Me In.”
She Don’t Ft. TyDolla$ignElla Mai
Ella Mai is an R&B singer from the United Kingdom.
Since the late 2010s, she has been highly active, releasing authentic R&B rather than dance tracks aimed at commercial hits.
Thanks to that approach and her sophisticated songs, she has received high praise from R&B critics around the world.
Her acclaimed masterpiece, Ella Mai, is her debut studio album and includes her hit songs Boo’d Up and Trip.
MajicJoe
As a quintessential R&B singer who continues to influence many artists today, Joe rose to popularity in the 1990s and gained worldwide recognition.
Even after that, he never drifted toward a more commercial sound, consistently releasing classic, old-school R&B.
Among his highly acclaimed albums is Signature, which features numerous sexy, sweet, quintessentially R&B tracks.
This time, we’re highlighting one of its sexiest songs: Majic.
Soul SistaBilal
Bilal is known as a representative artist of neo soul—a genre that blends R&B with other styles.
Unlike D’Angelo, another standard-bearer of neo soul, he has also released a few pop-leaning tracks.
His album 1st Born Second is widely regarded as a classic, featuring standout songs like Soul Sista and Love It that cemented his reputation.
If you’re looking for stylish R&B, this album is irresistible—be sure to check it out.