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.
- Western R&B Popularity Ranking [2025]
- A classic R&B masterpiece. A must-listen recommended album.
- Popular R&B: Western Music Artist Rankings [2025]
- [2025] Western Music You’ve Heard at Least Once — From Trending New Tracks to Timeless Classics
- Legends of soul music: its history and allure revisited through classic songs
- [Latest] Quick Guide to Trends in Western R&B Music [2025]
- Classic R&B songs recommended for women
- [2025] Best Western R&B Love Songs: A Curated Collection of Romance Tracks
- Classic Western R&B songs to listen to in autumn
- Classic R&B songs perfect for summer: recommended popular tracks
- [Definitive Edition] Masterpieces and Hit Songs of 80s Disco
- Refined Sound: The World of Stylish Vocaloid R&B Songs
- Great Black Music: Recommended Masterpieces
Western R&B Classics: From the Latest Hits to Timeless Blockbusters [2025] (191–200)
Bad HabitsMaxwell
Maxwell is an R&B singer who continued to thrive from the 2000s through the 2010s, armed with an impressive falsetto and wide-ranging musicality.
He is known not only as an R&B singer but also as a neo-soul artist, and in both realms his sound is crafted with refined sophistication.
One of his classic tracks is Bad Habits.
It’s among his signature works, blending smooth soul and adult contemporary into an R&B composition.
Remember the TimeMichael Jackson
Michael Jackson is no longer confined to any one genre, but as the best-selling artist in the world, you can still sense R&B at his core.
This is a single from his 1991 album Dangerous.
The track incorporates New Jack Swing, a genre that was popular in the U.
S.
from the mid-1980s to the early 1990s, making it an upbeat and pleasantly light, rhythm-driven song.
Sure ThingMiguel
Miguel is an R&B singer who was active in the 2000s.
His track “Sure Thing” is from an album released in 2010, but its sales at the time weren’t great.
However, now it’s gained renewed attention thanks to going viral on TikTok.
As a song, it isn’t orthodox R&B; the vocal lines, effects, and the track itself all lean heavily into left-field choices.
It has a vibe similar to Childish Gambino’s “Redbone,” so for those who like downbeat, unconventional R&B, it’s a perfect fit.
Make Me ForgetMuni Long
A track that brilliantly captures strong self-assertion and the complexities of love has arrived from Muni Long.
With smooth vocals and a heartfelt performance, she truly captivates listeners.
Released in May 2024, this work features an alluring sound that blends elements of R&B and soul.
The lyrics emotionally express a desire for strength and understanding within a partnership.
It’s a song that resonates with Muni Long’s musicality and message.
It’s perfect for moments when you want to reflect deeply on love and relationships—or face yourself.
Western R&B Masterpieces: From the Latest Hits to All-Time Classics [2025] (201–210)
LoveMusiq
The artist Musiq Soulchild, who is highly acclaimed worldwide for his high-level musicality.
He’s generally known simply as “Musiq.” He excels at a sound that blends neo-soul and R&B.
A work where you can fully savor his musicality is Love.
It’s a classic that lets you experience both the romantic side of R&B and the edgy qualities of neo-soul all at once.
Be sure to check it out.
Because Of YouNe-Yo
Ne-Yo is an artist who made a huge impact on the dance music scene in the 2000s.
He’s so famous that even many young people in Japan are likely familiar with him.
His signature style is undeniably upbeat, danceable R&B.
“Because of You” is one of his classic tracks—stylish yet groovy, a high-sense R&B number.
If you’re into the smooth R&B sound of the 2000s, definitely give it a listen.
So SickNe-Yo
How many people must have been shocked back then? Ne-Yo burst onto the scene like a rising star and quickly shot to the top.
His songs were played frequently on the radio not only in the U.
S.
but also in Japan.
It’s a song that captures the blue mood of lingering heartbreak.
Ne-Yo’s meltingly sweet, heartrending vocals really touch the heart… A timeless classic released in 2005.