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)
Im blessedCharlie Wilson
This song, sung by R&B singer Charlie, expresses a spirit of gratitude.
It’s his latest track, released in 2017.
Born in the 1950s, he is a singer-songwriter who has released numerous albums and is also known as Uncle Charlie.
Saturday Love (feat. Alexander O’Neal)Cherrelle
A smash-hit R&B track released in 1985.
It was a major hit at the time and is still frequently played at ’90s soul-style parties as a dance classic.
The unison of Cherrelle’s feminine, rich vocals and Alexander O’Neal’s deep, sweet, masculine voice makes for a fantastic collaboration.
In particular, the chorus line “Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Saturday, love!” packs a punch and is so catchy you won’t forget it after just one listen.
How Does It FeelChlöe, Chris Brown
Chlöe Bailey, who is active not only as part of the sister duo Chloe x Halle but also as the solo artist “Chlöe,” surprised many with her February 24, 2023 release “How Does It Feel,” a collaboration with none other than Chris Brown.
Although the collaboration drew criticism due in part to issues in Chris’s personal life, the song’s quality proves it’s a top-tier pairing of two first-rate singers.
It samples Dionne Warwick’s 1973 classic “You’re Gonna Need Me,” and it’s interesting to compare it with Usher’s 2004 track “Throwback,” which also references the same song.
Western R&B Masterpieces: From the Newest Hits to the All-Time Classics [2025] (151–160)
CheatbackChlöe, Future
Chlöe, a female R&B singer drawing attention on platforms like TikTok, is a member of Chloe x Halle and, as a solo artist, has collaborated with many rappers, churning out hit tracks.
Among her songs, the one I especially recommend is Cheatback.
It’s a collaboration with the rapper Future, and rather than orthodox R&B, it’s crafted with a breezy, pop-leaning R&B sound.
It’s a track that should feel approachable even to those not very familiar with R&B.
GO GIRLFRIENDChris Brown
Chris Brown’s danceable R&B track is making waves once again.
Featured on his album 11:11 (Deluxe), the song seamlessly fuses his fluid vocals with elements of dance music.
Bold lyrics and a rhythmic sound portray the hidden dynamics between lovers.
Released on April 11, 2024, the album includes 35 tracks, with this song added as part of the deluxe edition—and it’s exploding in popularity on TikTok.
It’s also slated to be performed on The 11:11 Tour, so the live rendition is something to look forward to.
This is a perfect track to set the mood for private moments with your partner.
UndecidedChris Brown
If you’re looking for a poppy R&B song, I recommend “Undecided.” The singer, Chris Brown, is a hugely popular artist who has even topped the Billboard charts.
What’s more, this track samples the classic “I Love Your Smile” by Shanice.
Since it references a well-known song that many people in Japan have likely heard, even newcomers to Western music should find it easy to enjoy.
With YouChris Brown
Chris Brown is an R&B singer who has been active from the 2000s to the present.
He’s the only one who has remained at the top of the scene for such a long time.
Speaking of Chris Brown’s signature songs, it has to be With You, doesn’t it? This track pairs an acoustic melody with a prominent beat, resulting in an overall refreshing vibe.
Comparing it with his current, more hip-hop-oriented sound lets you appreciate how he has evolved.