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

Can’t Take My Eyes Off YouBoys Town Gang29rank/position

Can’t Take My Eyes Off You

Released in 1982, this popular ’80s disco number was covered in Japan under the title “Kimi no Hitomi ni Koishiteru.” The original, a solo single by Frankie Valli, was rearranged as a disco track and became a massive hit.

Its disco-driven vocals capture the thrill of a romance about to begin and really lift the mood.

It’s a beloved song that has been covered by many artists in Japan.

Kung Fu FightingCarl Douglas30rank/position

Kung Fu Fighting

A cheerful disco number composed by the Indian-born producer Biddu.

At the time, Biddu had prepared a song called “I Want to Give You My Everything” for Carl Douglas to sing.

He then asked Douglas if he had any lyrics that could be used for the B-side of “I Want to Give You My Everything.

” Douglas showed him several of his own lyrics, and this song was the one chosen from among them.

It was made half as a joke but ended up becoming a huge hit.

Let’s DanceDavid Bowie31rank/position

David Bowie – Let’s Dance (Official Video)

David Bowie, the world-renowned British artist who constantly kept an eye on the times and changed his musical style like a chameleon.

The work that made his name echo around the globe was released in March 1983 at the height of the disco boom, with funk maestro Nile Rodgers brought on as producer, resulting in an irresistibly groovy dance tune.

Yet beneath the surface lies depth as well—through the image of “wearing red shoes and dancing the blues,” it hints at people who conceal sorrow and feign joy.

The fact that he enlisted the then-unknown Stevie Ray Vaughan also speaks volumes about Bowie’s extraordinary eye for talent.

It’s a perfect track for a night when you want to dance till dawn at a party.

SoftLucky Daye32rank/position

Lucky Daye – Soft (Live Performance Video)

This is a track that modernly reinterprets old-school R&B, highlighted by silky vocals.

The song explores the impact of love on people and the importance of embracing vulnerability.

It encourages listeners to enjoy what society might label as “soft,” without shame.

Released in May 2024, the track is included on the album Algorithm, slated for release in June of the same year.

It’s drawing attention as a song that showcases a new facet of Lucky Daye’s musicality.

Packed with the appeal of a powerhouse artist with 11 Grammy nominations and one win, this is a piece to surrender to—rich with emotion—and perfect for a quiet night spent with someone special.

Call Out My NameThe Weeknd33rank/position

The Weeknd – Call Out My Name (Official Video)

This is a song whose beautiful melody, filled with deep sorrow and poignancy, resonates with the heart.

Released in March 2018 and peaking at No.

4 on the Billboard Hot 100, it is known as one of The Weeknd’s signature tracks.

The lyrics delicately capture the pain of heartbreak, and the unique high-tone vocals weave an emotionally rich world that many listeners relate to.

Coupled with its minimal production, it becomes a striking piece that leaves a deep impression on those who hear it.

It’s recommended not only for those troubled by love, but also for anyone who wants to quietly immerse themselves in music on a calm night.

Long As I LiveToni Braxton34rank/position

Toni Braxton – Long As I Live

Toni Braxton, who has had a remarkably long career in the R&B scene.

This is the song with which she returned to the Billboard charts, after having devoted herself to R&B since the ’80s.

With her compelling vocal power, she sounds not only unchanged from those days but even more captivating with the richness that comes with age.

And hats off to her for stepping onto the same stage as the younger generation, singing while dancing at the forefront.

PUSH 2 STARTTyla35rank/position

Tyla – PUSH 2 START (Official Music Video)

This is a track by Tyla, the South African artist who drew global attention with her 2024 Grammy win.

Featured on the deluxe edition Tyla+, an expansion of the acclaimed album Tyla, the song explores equality in romantic relationships.

With lyrics that tell a partner, “If we’re going to start something, show your worth through actions,” the confident protagonist comes vividly to life.

Its cool, smooth sound with Amapiano influences is perfect for a summer evening drive.

Maybe the secret to the best relationships is lifting each other up.

Why not take a positive step forward, believing in your own worth, while listening to this track?