Western R&B Popularity Ranking [2025]

I’ve Been (Lost Tapes 2016)Tory Lanez71rank/position

Tory Lanez – I’ve Been (Lost Tapes 2016)

Tory Lanez, a young rapper-singer born in Toronto, Canada.

Released in July 2024, this work is a track from the “Lost Tapes” series, a collection of previously unreleased songs recorded in 2016.

Over an emotionally charged beat with strong R&B elements, it delves into the complex feelings of trying to win back an ex.

Co-produced by Tory himself and Play Picasso, the song compellingly showcases both his vocal and rap talents.

His unique sound, influenced by Caribbean dancehall and trap, continues to captivate fans.

It’s a recommended track not only for those wrestling with love, but also for anyone looking to discover fresh talent in R&B.

Crystal TearsElmiene72rank/position

Elmiene – Crystal Tears (Official Video)

Released in March 2024, Elmiene’s track—marked by his delicate, emotive vocals—centers on the theme of revisiting lost love.

Created through his first collaboration with Grammy-winning producer D’Mile, the song reflects on past mistakes and expresses a yearning to mend a broken relationship.

Evoking the torch songs of James Blake and the soul of D’Angelo, its musicality is vividly rendered through Elmiene’s voice, resulting in a striking work.

Beginning in April 2024, a tour of eight cities across Europe and the United States will feature this track among others.

It’s a must-listen for anyone seeking to heal the pain of heartbreak or discover a new talent in R&B.

SorryBeyoncé73rank/position

Beyoncé – Sorry (Video)

Beyoncé has released many catchy songs, but “Sorry” stands out with a particularly distinctive sound among her tracks.

In the middle, it features an Asian-flavored vocal riff and shifts into rap-like melodies—overall, it’s a curveball of a song.

Highly recommended for those who want to listen to edgy, characterful Black music.

WaterTyla74rank/position

Tyla – Water (Official Music Video)

Tyla burst onto the scene from South Africa like a shooting star.

The song that catapulted her into stardom is a track from her debut album, “Tyla”! Blending the breezy rhythms of Afrobeats with sensual R&B, the sound feels like a refreshing tonic seeping into sun-warmed skin in summer.

The lyrics portray an irrepressible passion and a longing for intimate connection, and that slightly risqué worldview is sure to make your heart skip a beat.

This record became a historic hit, marking the first entry in 55 years on the Billboard Hot 100 by a solo artist from South Africa! It’s the perfect number for relaxing on a summer evening with a slightly grown-up vibe.

Touch My BodyMariah Carey75rank/position

Mariah Carey – Touch My Body (Official Music Video)

It’s a track that exudes a sexy, playful vibe.

While depicting intimate moments with a lover, it also conveys the desire to keep the relationship private.

Mariah Carey’s captivating vocals blend perfectly with the breezy R&B sound, enchanting listeners.

Released in 2008, the song reached No.

1 on the U.

S.

singles chart, becoming Mariah’s 18th No.

1 and setting a new record for a solo artist.

It’s recommended for times when a grown woman wants a refreshing change of mood, or for a special night spent with a partner.

How You Gonna Act Like ThatTyrese76rank/position

Tyrese – How You Gonna Act Like That (Video)

Tyrese is one of the singers who defined R&B in the 2000s.

Now known as Tyrese Gibson, he appears in well-known films such as the Fast & Furious series.

One of his signature songs is How You Gonna Act Like That.

Crafted with a classic melody that captures the 2000s vibe, the track features the sweet, sexy lyrics that are the essence of R&B.

Whether you read the lyrics or just listen to the melody, it’s a song that exudes sensuality.

I Will Always Love YouWhitney Houston77rank/position

Whitney Houston – I Will Always Love You – Lyrics

When it comes to the pinnacle of R&B ballads that sing of eternal love, this song is indispensable.

Whitney Houston’s overwhelming vocal power and emotional expression can’t help but move every listener.

Captivating people around the world as the theme song for the 1992 film The Bodyguard, it held the number one spot on the Billboard chart for 14 consecutive weeks.

In 1994, it won two Grammy Awards, cementing its status as a truly historic masterpiece.

The lyrics, which portray profound love amid parting, will deeply resonate with anyone experiencing the joys and sorrows of romance.