Western R&B Popularity Ranking [2025]

SuperflyCurtis Mayfield1rank/position

Superfly

Contemporary soul music and R&B are strongly influenced by the genre known as neo-soul.

Leading that neo-soul movement was Curtis Mayfield.

Alongside artists like Marvin Gaye, Donny Hathaway, and Stevie Wonder, he helped establish a new movement.

His Superfly is crafted with a funky sound, yet, unlike earlier soul music, it also carries a cool, refined vibe.

TreasureBruno Mars2rank/position

Bruno Mars – Treasure (Official Music Video)

Speaking of Bruno Mars, he’s a top-tier singer-songwriter who represents the 2010s and beyond.

At the same time, we can’t overlook his achievements as a pioneer who revived the funk sound of the 1980s in a modern form and wove it into a hit-making formula.

Many people will probably think of 2014’s “Uptown Funk,” his collaboration with Mark Ronson, a fellow top-tier hitmaker and music producer.

In fact, by the time of his second album, Unorthodox Jukebox, released in 2012, Bruno had already scored a hit with “Treasure,” a retro, poppy disco tune with funk elements.

Be sure to check out the music video too—it’s pure ’80s flair, with Bruno delivering a powerhouse performance alongside a large band under dazzling, glittering lights, and he looks unbelievably cool!

What’s Going OnMarvin Gaye3rank/position

Marvin Gaye – What’s Going On

On January 20, 2021, the state of Michigan in the United States established “What’s Going On Day.” Marking the 50th anniversary of the release of Marvin Gaye’s timeless classic “What’s Going On” on the same day in 1971, it served as a reminder of the song’s historical significance as a literal “soul record” that advocates for peace, universal love, and unity.

In 2019, the first official music video was created by director Savannah Leaf, and in these turbulent times, “What’s Going On” continues to offer guidance on what truly matters.

It is undoubtedly one of the greatest legacies born from Black music.

Even if one doesn’t know much about Marvin Gaye himself, nearly everyone has heard “What’s Going On” at least once somewhere.

As noted, it was released as a single on January 20, 1971, by the prestigious Motown label and became a massive hit, later becoming a standard covered by many subsequent artists.

Gaye contributed to both the lyrics and composition, and the song was strongly influenced by the social climate of the time as well as letters he received from his younger brother, who had been sent to the Vietnam War.

Musically, it features a highly refined sound with flowing strings, a romantic saxophone tone, and a bass line that creates a distinctive groove—an excellent number born from superb production and ensemble work.

While Gaye’s vocals are relatively relaxed and gently conversational, he appeals to us listeners in the face of harsh realities, asking, “What’s going on?” In today’s deeply troubled world, we hope you’ll listen anew to the song’s urgent message.

Let’s Stay TogetherAl Green4rank/position

Al Green – Let’s Stay Together (Official Audio)

Neo-soul, a genre that sparked a major movement led by D’Angelo.

This song, “Let’s Stay Together,” is one that had a tremendous influence on the birth of neo-soul.

Unlike other soul singers, Al Green sang a groove-centered, languid style of soul.

D’Angelo’s “Send It On,” for example, is strongly influenced by this track.

If you’re into neo-soul, definitely give it a listen!

Bleeding LoveLeona Lewis5rank/position

Leona Lewis – Bleeding Love (US Version – Official Video)

This is a globally successful hit by Leona Lewis, a British singer with an exotic and intellectual aura.

Listening to Leona’s mesmerizing, rich voice is soothing.

Be sure to pay close attention to the part where her powerful, resonant vocals transition into the high notes.

SuperstitionStevie Wonder6rank/position

Superstition

This is one of Stevie Wonder’s signature songs, where a funky groove meets lyrics with deep meaning.

The track warns of the dangers of superstition and underscores the importance of self-belief, and it was released in October 1972.

In January 1973, it reached No.

1 on both the U.

S.

Billboard Hot 100 and the Soul Singles chart.

One of its charms is that Wonder himself plays most of the instruments, including drums and clavinet.

Blending funk, rock, and soul, its distinctive sound is perfect for lighting up the dance floor.

It’s a highly recommended song for anyone who wants to break free from superstition and believe in themselves.

SeptemberEarth, Wind & Fire7rank/position

Earth, Wind & Fire – September (Official HD Video)

Just hearing the sparkling horn section in the intro makes your heart start to dance—the definitive disco anthem! It’s a worldwide smash hit by the American musical group Earth, Wind & Fire.

With lyrics that celebrate an irreplaceable, memorable day and a relentlessly positive, euphoric sound, it instantly fills listeners with happiness.

Released in November 1978, the song was included on the greatest hits album The Best of Earth, Wind & Fire, Vol.

1 and featured in the film Night at the Museum, continuing to captivate audiences to this day.

Put it on when you’re gathering with your favorite people, and the moments you share might shine even brighter!