Western R&B Popularity Ranking [2025]

Le FreakChic15rank/position

CHIC – Le Freak (Official Music Video)

Here arrives a masterpiece that stands as a monument of disco music.

Distinguished by its sophisticated groove and catchy melody, this work—released in September 1978—is a tour de force.

Its cool guitar riffs and funky basslines intertwine exquisitely, stirring an irresistible urge to dance in anyone who listens.

The lyrics carry a message of “let’s be free and have fun,” fully capturing the liberating spirit of the disco era.

With over 7,000,000 copies sold and charts conquered around the world, it continues to shine with undiminished appeal.

It’s the perfect track for a weekend party or whenever you want to lift your spirits.

I Will SurviveGloria Gaynor16rank/position

Gloria Gaynor – I Will Survive

This is the signature song of American singer Gloria Gaynor, whose powerful recovery from heartbreak resonated with many.

Released as a single from the 1978 album “Love Tracks,” the track was initially a B-side, but thanks to strong support from DJs it was flipped to the A-side and went on to reach No.

1 on the U.

S.

charts in 1979.

It is also well known for being used as a rallying song for the French national team during the 1998 FIFA World Cup.

The fact that Gaynor herself performed it while overcoming difficulties following surgery lends profound conviction to her voice, imbued with an indomitable spirit.

It’s a timeless anthem of encouragement that powerfully pushes listeners forward.

And The Beat Goes OnThe Whispers17rank/position

The Whispers – “And The Beat Goes On” (Official Video)

The Whispers, who created a classic that has long been cherished as a defining soul-disco sound of the ’80s.

Hailing from California, their October 1979 release is a masterpiece that sets a positive, forward-looking message about a breakup—one of life’s turning points—to an upbeat groove.

Its effective use of synthesizers made it a pivotal track symbolizing the transition from disco to post-disco.

In 2002, it was featured on the soundtrack of the video game Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, winning over a new generation of listeners.

With rhythms and melodies that feel right at home on the dance floor, it’s the perfect song for anyone ready to move forward.

A gem of a disco tune, dedicated to those who, while carrying a hint of heartache, want to take a bold new step.

We Belong TogetherMariah Carey18rank/position

Mariah Carey – We Belong Together (Official Music Video)

This is a masterpiece that expresses the yearning to win back a lost love with overwhelming vocal prowess.

Known as one of Mariah Carey’s signature songs, it was released as a single in March 2005.

Included on the album “The Emancipation of Mimi,” it achieved great success, spending 14 consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The song portrays a woman who regrets breaking up with her lover and longs to be together again.

Its lyrics, filled with deep sorrow and aching tenderness, and Mariah’s emotionally rich vocals resonate powerfully with listeners.

It’s a recommended track when you want to heal the pain of heartbreak or reaffirm your feelings for someone special.

Boogie WonderlandEarth, Wind & Fire19rank/position

Earth, Wind & Fire – Boogie Wonderland (Official Video)

Earth, Wind & Fire was a band that enjoyed huge success in the 1970s and remains immensely popular in Japan.

They’ve produced numerous classic songs, and this time I’d like to recommend this particular track as a dance number.

Released in 1979, it features a distinctive melody that blends disco music with R&B.

Issued as the first single from the album “I Am,” it became a worldwide hit.

The song captures the joy of being set free on the dance floor while depicting the feelings of people seeking escape from the pressures of everyday life.

If you’re just getting into Earth, Wind & Fire, be sure to check it out.

Shot ClockElla Mai20rank/position

Ella Mai – Shot Clock (Official Music Video)

This is the song Shot Clock by UK-born R&B singer Ella Mai.

It’s included on her debut album released in 2018.

Her rhythmic vocals are super cool.

The 90s R&B-inspired phrasing and harmonies are irresistible for R&B fans! She’s still early in her career, but she’s already become an icon for many women.

We have high hopes for her going forward!

My GirlThe Temptations21rank/position

My Girl

The Temptations are a soul chorus group from the United States that was active in the 1960s.

They skyrocketed in popularity with My Girl, released in 1964.

Even if you don’t usually listen to soul music, you’ve probably heard it—it’s that big of a worldwide hit.

The year after its release, it reached No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100, and it was used as the theme song for the 1991 film of the same name.

With its easy-to-listen-to melody, it’s recommended even for those who don’t typically listen to Black music.