R&B Masterpieces in Western Music: From the Latest Hits to Timeless Classics [2025]
The history of R&B—rhythm and blues—goes way back, and the term itself is said to have existed since the 1940s.
That said, the image most people have of R&B as a music genre today was largely established from the 1990s onward, shaped through the lens of club music.
In this article, the first half features a lineup focused on the latest hits and standout tracks by rising artists, while the latter half is packed with classic songs from the 1990s, often called the golden age of R&B.
It offers a broad selection that also looks at subgenres like contemporary R&B, neo-soul, and alternative R&B, so we encourage newcomers to R&B to check it out as well.
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Western R&B Masterpieces: From the Newest Hits to Classic Blockbusters [2025] (141–150)
Humpin’ AroundBobby Brown
Bobby Brown, who rose to fame as a member of New Edition, delivered the classic track “Humpin’ Around.” It’s a cool, upbeat dance R&B number that makes the most of his idol-era experience.
A must-hear for anyone looking to cover the quintessential early ’90s R&B sound.
End of the RoadBoyz II Men
It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to call them Japan’s most famous R&B group.
In the 1990s, Boyz II Men—America’s pride and one of the great vocal groups—racked up outstanding sales and released one timeless ballad after another.
Their recognition extends far beyond the R&B sphere, but if the theme is classic R&B, you can’t avoid discussing their songs.
Released on June 30, 1992, the single “End of the Road” is a pinnacle ballad that distills everything compelling about Boyz II Men.
This historic masterpiece, which held the No.
1 spot on the U.
S.
charts for 13 consecutive weeks, was produced by Babyface and L.
A.
Reid.
Its irresistibly lovable melody and flawless choral work create harmonies whose beauty will never fade.
The final a cappella section continues to deliver a warm, moving experience to listeners in any era.
I’ll Make Love to YouBoyz II Men
It’s no exaggeration to say that Boyz II Men is one of the most famous vocal groups in the world.
Their signature song, “I’ll Make Love to You,” is distinguished among the many R&B tracks by its romantic lyrics and melody.
It’s a song you can’t skip if you want to understand R&B.
All MineBrent Faiyaz
Brent Faiyaz began uploading tracks to SoundCloud as a teenager and drew attention as a so-called SoundCloud rapper, but he chose a career as an R&B singer.
His second album, Wasteland, released in 2022, impressively reached No.
2 on the Billboard charts.
Despite his many achievements and commercial success, he remains known in Japan mostly among dedicated R&B fans, yet there’s no doubt he’s an artist to watch in the contemporary R&B scene.
Among the many heavyweights featured on Wasteland—such as Alicia Keys and Raphael Saadiq—this piece focuses on All Mine, which is credited solely to Brent for its songwriting, suggesting it most strongly reflects his essence.
Depending on how you read it, the lyrics could come off as the pathetic, lingering regrets of a heartbroken man, but his skill in shaping it into a romantic slow jam is truly admirable.
Back At OneBrian McKnight
Brian McKnight is an artist who energized the R&B scene from the 1990s to the early 2000s with his exceptional musicality.
He plays a variety of instruments and is especially renowned for his formidable piano skills.
That strength is clearly reflected in his songs, resulting in a refined, sophisticated sound.
One of his classic tracks is Back At One.
The stripped-down, self-accompanied version is also excellent, so be sure to check it out.
Versace on the FloorBruno Mars
A revival track distinguished by electric piano sounds emblematic of ’80s and ’90s R&B.
The phrase “take off that Versace dress and drop the act” is a celebrity, hype-laden turn of phrase that’s so Bruno Mars.
With shimmering lines and a slow-burn mood powered by YAMAHA DX7-style tones, it feels like a time slip.
This is revival at its finest—lyrics thick with seductive wordplay that will resonate with those who like to take the lead and pull their partner along.
Persuasion (ft. Victoria Monét)Bryson Tiller
Set to a moody late-night beat, the lyrics intertwine to evoke intense desire and a fleeting affair.
The collaboration between Bryson Tiller and Victoria Monét masterfully crafts a sensual world.
It’s an adult love song that deftly portrays the tug-of-war between the struggle of sinking into love and the irresistible pull that wins out, told from both a man’s and a woman’s perspective.
The track appears on Tiller’s fourth album, “Bryson Tiller,” released in June 2024, and has become a hot topic among R&B fans.
It’s a perfect song for a midnight drive or special moments with someone important.