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

I Wanna KnowJoe

Joe – I Wanna Know (Official Video)

Joe is an American R&B singer known for his romantic vocals.

He was hugely active from the 1990s through the 2000s and continues to release music without compromising his classic style.

His song “I Wanna Know” is one of his signature works and became a global hit.

While it’s not specifically themed around summer, its sweet vibe fits perfectly with summer evenings and seaside scenes.

If you love classic R&B, be sure to check it out.

As We LayKelly Price

Kelly Price – As We Lay (Official Music Video)

This R&B classic by Kelly Price features authentic gospel vocals and deep lyrics that create an exceptionally pleasant feel and elevate the refreshing vibe.

With its urban finish that amps up your mood, it’s a perfect pick for summer.

Bliss Abroad ft. SheléaMasego

Masego – Bliss Abroad (Lyric Video) ft. Sheléa

Masego is not only a saxophonist but also an active music producer.

He describes his own musical style as “TrapHouseJazz,” and the term fits perfectly—he balances elements of trap music with house and jazz.

This track, Bliss Abroad ft.

Sheléa, is a collaboration with Sheléa, a female R&B singer who counts Stevie Wonder and Quincy Jones as her mentors.

It might be nice to keep your summer cool with this stylish R&B tune.

Because Of YouNe-Yo

Ne-Yo – Because Of You (Official Music Video)

Ne-Yo is an R&B singer whose music, reminiscent of Michael Jackson, gained popularity in the 2000s.

While he’s less visible on the scene today, the songs he left behind are still loved by R&B fans.

Among his works, a great pick for summer is Because of You.

It’s a stylish dance track that sets a classic R&B love song to an exceptional groove from start to finish.

How about adding it to your playlist for a cool, air-conditioned car drive?

UnfairRayana Jay

Rayana Jay – Unfair (Audio)

Leanna Jay, whose music carries a strong message, has garnered overwhelming support from Black women in the United States.

While their genres differ, some aspects of her musicality and her influence are reminiscent of Billie Eilish.

Among her works, a track I highly recommend for summer is Unfair.

It’s an R&B song with a chill vibe—cool from start to finish, with laid-back vocals riding over a sleek track.

Be sure to check it out.

Long As I LiveToni Braxton

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.