Lovely R&B and soul

R&B Masterpieces in Western Music: From the Latest Hits to Timeless Classics [2025]

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!
Active club DJKento
Active as a club DJ. Centered on dance music, they mix a wide range of genres including US hip-hop and J-rap, captivating audiences with their unique musical style.

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.

Western R&B Masterpieces – From the Latest Hits to All-Time Classics [2025] (171–180)

I Wanna KnowJoe

Joe – I Wanna Know (Official Video)

I Wanna KnowJoe

When it comes to classic R&B, many people probably think of Joe.

He’s an R&B singer who was hugely active in the 2000s and had a major influence on genres like slow jams that followed.

One of his signature songs is “I Wanna Know.” It’s one of the defining slow jams of the 2000s, crafted with an overall sweet and sexy vibe.

It’s a classic, but incredibly sophisticated—if you love R&B, be sure to check it out.

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Ordinary PeopleJohn Legend

John Legend – Ordinary People (Official Music Video)

Ordinary PeopleJohn Legend

John Legend, the American R&B singer still fresh in our memories for his appearance in the 2016 Hollywood film La La Land.

This simple piece is composed of nothing but his beautiful voice and piano.

It’s a track that sings about the ups and downs of relationships, inspired by personal experiences such as his parents’ divorce.

Released in 2005, it won a Grammy.

Since I’d really like you to focus on the lyrics as they’re sung in the piece, if you truly love it, try creating a line-by-line translation yourself.

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My, My, MyJohnny Gill

My, My, My

My, My, MyJohnny Gill

When it comes to contemporary R&B, many R&B fans probably think of “My, My, My.” It drew attention at the time because the famous saxophonist Kenny G took part.

Johnny Gill’s intense vocals toward the latter half make it a particularly compelling track.

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Waiting On You ft. TankJon B.

Jon B. – Waiting On You ft. Tank

Waiting On You ft. TankJon B.

John B’s new song, rendered in a beautifully soul-stirring falsetto, portrays the longing of a heart awaiting love.

His collaboration with Tank is irresistibly smooth, making this a gem that captivates listeners.

Set to be included on the album “Waiting on You,” scheduled for release on February 23, 2024—his first in about a decade—the track celebrates the value of waiting for a life partner.

It showcases John B’s emotional depth and musical maturity, and is recommended for anyone who wants to refocus on what truly matters amid a busy life.

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My Love (feat. T.I.)Justin Timberlake

Justin Timberlake – Medley: Let Me Talk To You/My Love (Official Video) ft. T.I.

My Love (feat. T.I.)Justin Timberlake

“My Love (feat.

T.

I.

)” features distinctive percussion reminiscent of early African music that makes a strong impression.

Partway through, the song’s tone shifts dramatically into a smooth, R&B-style melody.

T.

I.

’s characteristically cool rap also stands out, making this a classic R&B track.

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Western R&B Masterpieces — From the Latest Hits to All-Time Classics [2025] (181–190)

FeelsKehlani

Kehlani – Feels (Official Audio)

FeelsKehlani

This track is included on the album Kehlani released in 2019.

It opens with an ethereal intro and draws you into a unique world through her distinctive voice.

With African American, white, Native American, Spanish, and Filipina–Native American heritage, she is active as a new star representing next-generation R&B.

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Nights Like This (feat. Ty Dolla $ign) [Official Video]Kehlani

Kehlani – Nights Like This (feat. Ty Dolla $ign) [Official Music Video]

Nights Like This (feat. Ty Dolla $ign) [Official Video]Kehlani

This is a song by American singer-songwriter Kehlani released in 2019, featuring Ty Dolla Sign.

I like how the male voice comes in partway through.

In the music video, she repairs an android that staggers to her home in a weakened state, but in the end she’s taken over by the android, making it a bit scary.

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