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

In Japan, when summer arrives, up-tempo songs that evoke the season start appearing on the scene.

While you can see a similar trend overseas, when it comes to R&B, even if the lyrics evoke summer, the melodies don’t necessarily follow that pattern.

This time, I’ve picked out overseas R&B tracks from the perspective of “suiting summer”! I’ve selected refreshing R&B songs—perfect for summer evenings or relaxation time—across different eras, so whether you’re a fan of Western music or not, be sure to check them out!

Classic R&B songs to listen to in summer: Recommended popular tracks (31–40)

7 DaysCraig David

Craig David – 7 Days (Official Video)
7 DaysCraig David

Craig David is a singer-songwriter from the United Kingdom.

He also had a period where he performed as a rapper, and compared to other R&B singers, his flow and rhyming are outstanding.

His song “7 Days” is one of his signature works, showcasing his strengths in rhyme and smooth flow.

While it may give off a stylish and cool impression, it’s crafted with an acoustic sound, making it a perfect R&B track for the summer.

EarfquakeTyler, The Creator

This is the song Earfquake by Tyler, the Creator.

It’s included on his 2019 album IGOR.

You can feel a playful touch in the way the romantic melody and piano sounds are paired with an ’80s-style, intentionally cheap-sounding synthesizer.

The deliberately off-key vocal effects also, curiously, add a sense of wistfulness to the track.

With top-tier production and vocal ability, Tyler, the Creator comes highly recommended!

Can’t Let GoAnthony Hamilton

Anthony Hamilton – Can’t Let Go (Official HD Video)
Can't Let GoAnthony Hamilton

Singer-songwriter Anthony Hamilton, whose richly powerful vocals and sophisticated musicality have earned him high praise from hardcore Black music fans.

Among his works, the R&B track I especially recommend for summer is “Can’t Let Go.” It lands somewhere between neo-soul and R&B, with lyrics about heartbreak.

It’s the perfect melody for reminiscing on a summer evening—be sure to give it a listen.

I BetCiara

This R&B classic by Ciara has established its place with stylish vocal flow and a club-friendly texture that leaves a pleasing, lingering impression.

Its urban vibe stirs a refreshing feeling, making it a perfect recommendation for summer.

ImportedJessie Reyez & 6LACK

A collaboration track between Jessie Reyez—known for her girly voice—and the rapper Ricardo Valdez Valentine, better known as 6LACK.

You could interpret it as a cheating song, or as a one-sided love song from 6LACK, with Jessie Reyez laughing as she warns him, “If you get any closer, you’ll drown in love.” It’s a tricky one to pin down, but this kind of thing happens a lot in relationships, doesn’t it? Maybe this kind of distance between the two is actually the most passionate kind of romance.

Classic R&B songs to listen to in summer: Recommended popular tracks (41–50)

Free SpiritKhalid

Khalid – Free Spirit (Official Video)
Free SpiritKhalid

Starting with a brisk, driving guitar riff, this song is Khalid’s “Free Spirit.” It’s included on the album of the same name, released in 2019.

Since his debut, he’s enjoyed a string of remarkable successes, and in this track, it seems he’s singing about a philosophy for a new way of life that he’s discovered.

If you’re feeling worn out by the everyday grind, this is a song I’d especially like you to hear.

KarmaQueen Naija

Queen Naija – Karma (From Capitol Records Studio A)
KarmaQueen Naija

A singer who is globally popular as a social media influencer.

Her debut single “Medicine,” released in December 2017, became a huge hit and quickly drew attention in the music industry.

The song became her second hit upon its June 2018 release and reached No.

1 in the US.

Definitely one to watch!