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 Classics — From the Newest Hits to Timeless Chart-Toppers [2025] (161–170)
Chocolate LegsEric Benét
Eric Benét is an R&B singer known for his exceptionally stable and beautiful falsetto.
His brand of R&B leans strongly into pop music, making it very approachable.
“Chocolate Legs” is one such work, crafted with a sound that blends neo-soul—a genre close to R&B—with pop.
Another highlight is his vocal performance: he sings almost the entire track in falsetto from beginning to end.
On & OnErykah Badu
Often hailed as the Queen of Neo-Soul, Erykah Badu has long been respected by countless artists for her unique sonic world, which draws from a wide range of musical backgrounds including jazz, funk, hip-hop, and house music.
Just listening to her debut single On & On—which won the 1998 Grammy Award for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance—makes it clear how distinct her appeal is from disposable hits that are quickly consumed and forgotten.
You can hear jazz-like elements in the restrained, simple, and stripped-down track; her overwhelming vocal prowess; and lyrics grounded in urban sophistication, thoughtful intelligence, and philosophy.
Even acknowledging her years of groundwork, it’s astonishing that she reached this level with her very first single.
Despite any perception that it might be abstruse or overly spiritual, it’s not at all inaccessible—in fact, it’s wonderfully listenable, genuinely good music.
Bending My RulesFLO
The track released as a single from the debut album Access All Areas showcases the full appeal of contemporary R&B.
Characterized by light, buoyant beats and melodic elements, it depicts the inner conflicts and emotional fluctuations of romance, with FLO’s superb choruses and harmonies sure to resonate with listeners.
Released in August 2024, the song heightens anticipation for the debut album slated for November.
FLO also plans to perform it on the Crash Tour starting in September.
Highly recommended for those who relate to the subtleties and complexities of love, it’s perfect for drives or nighttime relaxation, and a standout cut that lets you savor the allure of modern R&B.
Cardboard BoxFLO
FLO, the British vocal group that’s generating huge buzz, topped the BBC’s “Sound of 2023,” which highlights the year’s most promising newcomers, and they’re also set to come to Japan for Summer Sonic 2023.
They’ve won the BRIT Awards Rising Star as well, and they’re already attracting intense attention from sharp-eared R&B fans.
Their debut single “Cardboard Box,” released in March 2022, went massively viral, catapulting them into the spotlight.
Their sound evokes the feel of late-’90s to early-’00s R&B, and the trio’s beautiful chorus work and harmonies, backed by solid vocal ability, mark them as a long-awaited new powerhouse in R&B.
Modern R&B doesn’t necessarily demand great singing, and of course there are many wonderful artists in that realm, but if you’ve been missing that era of R&B where strong vocals took center stage, this is absolutely a group you should check out.
If you’re intrigued by these young, 2000s-born talents, start by giving this track a listen!
Belong To YouFave
Released in January 2024, this track by rising Nigerian R&B singer Fave draws attention with its unique blend of R&B and drill sounds.
Lush melodies and passionate vocals are exquisitely balanced, while lyrics exploring themes of love and belonging are sure to resonate deeply with listeners.
Showcasing Fave’s musical talent to the fullest, this song marks a new milestone in her career.
The lyrics deftly capture subtle shades of emotion and will likely strike a chord with those experienced in love.
It’s a perfect listen for nights when you want to linger in a pleasant afterglow.
In Your HandsHalle
Halle Bailey’s song is a powerful R&B ballad that sings of deep love and commitment.
Her vocals convey devotion and protection toward her partner, resonating with listeners.
Released in March 2024, the track sparked major buzz on social media, inspiring over 170,000 TikTok videos.
As her second solo single, it reveals a new side of the Grammy-nominated artist.
It’s a recommended listen not only for those in love, but also for anyone who wants to reflect on someone special.
lavender (ft. Pink Sweat$)JVKE
Released in February 2024, Jake’s track is a gem that uses lavender flowers as a metaphor to portray the complexities of love.
Its soothing melody, which perfectly blends pop and R&B, and the unique world created through his collaboration with Pink Sweat$ are truly captivating.
Catchy phrases and emotive vocals seize listeners’ hearts and don’t let go.
This work, a culmination of both artists’ talents, is already generating buzz among many music fans.
It’s a comforting, relatable song you’ll want to play during a sunset drive or on a quiet, long night.