Classic R&B songs perfect for summer: recommended popular tracks

Fallin’Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys – Fallin’ (Official HD Video)

This is an R&B classic by Alicia Keys, an immensely popular artist whose commanding vocal skills weave a grand, expansive world.

With a modern-textured track approach that delivers exquisitely pleasant listening, it’s a perfect recommendation for the summer.

GirlFriendBobby Brown

Bobby Brown – Girlfriend (original video)

This is a New Jack Swing track with a bouncy, upbeat approach.

It’s an R&B classic by Bobby Brown, an artist highly popular for his straightforward expression.

Sophisticated in content, it brings a bright, festive summertime vibe.

Versace on the FloorBruno Mars

Bruno Mars – Versace on the Floor (Official Music Video)

Bruno Mars is a singer-songwriter who enjoys extremely high acclaim around the world.

He originally focused on pop, but later shifted to a style rooted in rockabilly and rock, then moved into disco and funk, and these days his style leans toward soul music.

His “Versace on the Floor” is crafted as a romantic 1980s-style soul song, offering a distinctive melody that sits between R&B and soul.

If you want to spend a sweet moment with your partner on a summer night, try using it as background music.

Feels Like SummerChildish Gambino

Childish Gambino – Feels Like Summer

Childish Gambino is a singer-songwriter who has garnered high acclaim for his distinctive musicality.

He’s an artist known for memorable melodies and tracks that defy genre boundaries—spanning R&B, hip-hop, even synth-pop.

Among his works, the R&B track that’s perfect for summer is “Feels Like Summer.” With a dreamy, dream-pop-like production and R&B centered around effects, it carries an overall chill atmosphere.

Take You DownChris Brown

Chris Brown – Take You Down (Audio)

When people think of summer, many probably imagine the beach, but there are plenty of other settings too.

Chris Brown’s “Take You Down” is an R&B track I recommend for spending a hot summer night with your partner.

It features a passionate track and smooth yet powerful vocals, giving the whole piece a sexy vibe.

If you sing it in front of someone you like, or play this song, it might just increase your chances of a successful confession.

Walking AwayCraig David

Craig David – Walking Away (Official Video)

This R&B classic by Craig David showcases his artist persona with a moist, sultry male vocal, characterized by a downbeat texture and a sense of melancholy.

Its contemporary sonic quality carries an unfading elegance, making it a great recommendation for the summer.

Pick Up Your FeelingsJazmine Sullivan

Jazmine Sullivan – Pick Up Your Feelings (Official Acoustic Live Video)

Jazmine Sullivan is a female R&B singer whose exceptional vocal ability has earned high praise from critics.

She’s a top-tier artist who can master anything from contemporary slow jams to R&B that evokes soulful mid-school vibes.

Among her works, a song I especially recommend for summer is “Pick Up Your Feelings.” This time, I’m highlighting the acoustic version, and I think its light, breezy performance perfectly matches the summer mood.

If you like R&B with sophisticated vocal runs and embellishments, be sure to check it out.