Popular R&B: Western Music Artist Rankings [2025]

Mr. Big StuffJean Knight71rank/position

Mr. Big Stuff

A hit song released by Jean Knight in 1971.

In early 1970, songwriter Ralph Williams took notice of Jean Knight and introduced her to producer Wardell Quezergue.

Knight had given up on pursuing a singing career.

With that introduction earlier that year, the recording took place in May of the same year at Malaco Studio in Jackson, Mississippi.

Forever My LadyJodeci72rank/position

Jodeci – Forever My Lady

If you’re looking for a love song with beautifully gospel-infused choral work, Jodeci’s “Forever My Lady” is a great pick.

Included as the title track on their debut album and released as a single, it spent two weeks at No.

1 on the U.

S.

R&B chart.

The lyrics, which sing about a beloved partner and the new life soon to be born, convey a pure and profound affection.

Jodeci projected the image of streetwise young men, so the contrast of these tough-looking guys delivering a straightforward love song also contributed to its massive success.

KEHLANIJordan Adetunji73rank/position

Jordan Adetunji – KEHLANI [Official Video]

A track that perfectly captures the autumn vibe has arrived.

Jordan Adetunji’s work stands out for its distinctive sound, where R&B and drill beats blend seamlessly.

This release pays tribute to Kehlani and centers on themes of female confidence and independence.

Released in June 2024, it quickly went viral on TikTok and reached No.

52 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Its energetic feel and celebratory mood have captivated listeners.

It’s a recommended song for long autumn nights when you want to reflect on yourself.

When He’s Not There (feat. Lucky Daye)Kehlani74rank/position

Kehlani – When He’s Not There (feat. Lucky Daye) [Official Audio]

Kehlani’s tattoo-covered look is striking as well.

A singer-songwriter from the United States born in 1995, she has continued to be at the forefront of the scene as one of the leading figures in contemporary R&B.

Released in August 2024, this work has been crafted into a captivating track featuring Lucky Daye.

The lyrics, which portray a secret relationship and complex emotions, are memorable, and Kehlani’s clear vocals blend beautifully with Lucky Daye’s rich harmonies.

OMGLeigh-Anne75rank/position

Leigh-Anne: ‘OMG’ [Visualiser]

A captivating mid-tempo track that fuses R&B and pop—that’s Leigh-Anne’s music.

With an island-tinged, melodic flair, it explores the complexities of love.

Showcasing Leigh-Anne’s distinctive vocals, the song appears on her EP “No Hard Feelings,” released on May 24, 2024.

Centered on themes of motherhood and the joys and challenges of romance, it offers a glimpse into a new side of Leigh-Anne.

It’s the kind of song you’ll want to play on a summer night drive or during special moments with someone you love.

WrongLuh Kel76rank/position

Luh Kel – Wrong (Official Music Video)

If you’re looking for a refreshing track, I recommend Luh Kel’s “Wrong.” It has a trap-style beat with hip-hop elements, yet it’s very melodic, making it easy on the ears even for those new to Western music.

The track’s blend of coolness with hints of cuteness creates a unique, unprecedented atmosphere.

Ain’t No Stopping Us NowMcFadden & Whitehead77rank/position

McFadden & Whitehead – Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now (Official Audio)

This disco anthem carries a powerful message of overcoming adversity—“No one can stop us anymore!” It was the debut single released in April 1979 by the Philadelphia duo McFadden & Whitehead, a work that can be seen as their declaration of independence as ace songwriters.

Its exhilarating beat and lavish strings embody a fierce determination to face hardship, giving listeners a strong push forward.

Selling over eight million copies worldwide, the song has been used as a rallying anthem for Philadelphia’s professional sports teams and even in the 2008 U.

S.

presidential election.

It’s the kind of track that fills you with positive energy when you’re taking a new step forward.