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

SensitivityRalph Tresvant

Sensitivity

The debut single from New Edition frontman Ralph Tresvant.

Supreme new jack swing.

A treasure trove of R&B from MCA—one of its all-time classics—where his husky soprano voice meshes perfectly with the masterful production of Jam & Lewis.

In the intro, Ralph Tresvant seduces women across America, saying, “What you need is a gentle guy like me.”

In My Bag ft. GloRillaFLO

FLO, GloRilla – In My Bag ft. GloRilla (Official Video)

FLO, the group bringing a fresh breeze to the UK R&B scene.

Consisting of Jorja Douglas, Stella Quaresma, and Renée Downer, the trio delivers a powerful, stirring set of songs on their album “Access All Areas,” brimming with self-affirmation and pride in success.

Blending commanding vocals with Gloria’s rap, the record embodies women’s independence and empowerment.

Winners of the Rising Star award at the 2023 BRIT Awards and ranked No.

1 on the BBC’s “Sound of 2023,” this formidable act elevates the essence of ’90s R&B into a modern form.

Its positive message and dynamic rhythms make it a perfect pick for anyone who wants to value their authentic self or take a bold new step forward.

CollideJustine Skye ft Tyga

Justine Skye ft Tyga – Collide (Official Music Video)

The collaboration by American artists Justine Skye and Tyga is filled with a sweet, sensual allure.

The lyrics, which portray a relationship evolving from long-time friendship into romance, weave together sensual passion and pure emotion.

Over a polished beat produced by DJ Mustard, Skye’s airy vocals and Tyga’s powerful rap create a striking harmony.

Released in August 2014, the track regained attention on TikTok in 2022 and achieved chart success worldwide.

It’s the perfect song for a calm nighttime drive or an intimate moment with someone special.

Hair Down ft. Kendrick LamarSiR

SiR – Hair Down (Official Video) ft. Kendrick Lamar

This track is a showcase of SiR’s signature style, born and raised in Inglewood, California.

With its polished R&B sound and urban melodies, it resonates beautifully while exploring universal themes of self-expression and inner conflict.

The delicate feelings of wanting to stay true to oneself yet being conscious of others’ eyes are rendered exquisitely through his smooth vocals.

Released as a key cut from the August 2019 album “Chasing Summer,” it also features a star-studded collaboration with Kendrick Lamar.

Inheriting the musical DNA of a family where his mother sang backup for Michael Jackson, SiR shines as a crystallization of talent in today’s R&B scene.

It’s a perfect song for a calm nighttime drive or moments of self-reflection.

UndecidedChris Brown

Chris Brown – Undecided (Official Video)

A hit song released in January 2019 that boldly samples the universally known chorus of Shanice’s “I Love Your Smile.” In the music video, Chris Brown showcases La La Land–level dance moves, which became a hot topic at the time.

Set in a nighttime amusement park, he gracefully confesses past mistakes.

The song is a breakup track about initiating a split.

Girls Need Love Remix (with Drake)Summer Walker

Summer Walker – Girls Need Love Remix (with Drake)

This is a remix of Summer Walker’s song “Girls Need Love,” featuring a collaboration with Drake.

Summer Walker, a rising R&B singer from the United States, made headlines by teaming up with the superstar Drake.

Their voices complement each other really well.

The languid mood of the track is perfect for those sweltering summer nights when you just can’t fall asleep.

You’re Makin’ Me HighToni Braxton

Toni Braxton – You’re Makin’ Me HIgh (Video Version)

This R&B classic by Toni Braxton showcases her remarkable knack for delivering euphoric melodies with a sound rooted in quintessential rhythm and blues.

Its moody style makes it a perfect pick for summer, lifting your spirits as you listen.