For decades, R&B artists often had to cross over to pop charts to achieve mainstream success, a trend dating back to the 1940s. However, in the 21st century, the dynamic has shifted, with pop music increasingly influenced by and incorporating R&B. This genre has reached unprecedented levels of success, relevance, and artistic ambition. Some of the most significant and commercially successful albums of this century are undeniably R&B, from Usher’s diamond-certified Confessions and Beyoncé’s groundbreaking Lemonade to Mariah Carey’s The Emancipation of Mimi and Rihanna’s Anti. R&B hits consistently dominate top music charts, showcasing the genre’s widespread appeal and influence.
Aesthetically, contemporary R&B is incredibly diverse. It encompasses the organic sounds of neo-soul pioneers like Bilal, Jill Scott, and Erykah Badu, the piano-driven classicism of Alicia Keys and John Legend, the futuristic visions of Janelle Monáe, the gothic undertones of The Weeknd, the raw authenticity of Monica and SZA, the trap-infused soul of Bryson Tiller, and a multitude of other styles. The symbiotic relationship between hip-hop and R&B, which began to solidify in the 1990s, is evident, highlighted by Billboard‘s 1999 chart renaming to Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles & Tracks. This fusion is reflected in many songs considered among the best R&B tracks, including those from artists like Outkast, Pharrell, and Drake.
The traditional divide between R&B and indie music has also blurred. Today, innovative artists like Frank Ocean, Childish Gambino, and Solange are celebrated by both mainstream audiences and indie music enthusiasts. Furthermore, R&B’s biggest stars, such as Beyoncé and Rihanna, maintain their superstar status while firmly rooted in their R&B identity, achieving a balance that was arguably more challenging for icons like Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston in their prime. Solange’s 2013 tweet defending the “culture of R&B” underscores this aesthetic pride and self-assurance, a concept less prevalent in the mainstream of the late 20th century.
Rolling Stone assembled a panel of knowledgeable staff and critics. The focus was less on defining the boundaries of R&B and more on recognizing the music that has become indispensable, from chart-topping hits to hidden gems. A curated playlist accompanies this list, designed to enhance the listening experience and tell the story of 21st-century R&B. We hope you enjoy exploring these tracks as much as we enjoyed selecting them.
The Internet, ‘Special Affair’
Syd from The Internet performing Special Affair
On their third album, Ego Death, the Odd Future-affiliated R&B collective, The Internet, transitioned from their earlier vibe-centric experimentations to a more refined sound, characterized by stronger and more unconventional hooks. “Special Affair,” the album’s lead single, exemplifies this evolution with its richly textured atmosphere. Singer Syd initiates the track with the suggestive lines, “I know what you want/I can read your mind even from behind,” and escalates from there, incorporating allusions to Patron and its effects with a captivating, almost vampiric allure. The music pulsates with an immaculate quality, reminiscent of a never-ending nightclub experience. —C.P.
Jill Scott, ‘A Long Walk’
Jill Scott in a long coat
Philadelphia emerged as a significant hub for hip-hop soul in the 1990s and early 2000s, producing artists like The Roots, Musiq Soulchild, and Jill Scott. “A Long Walk,” from Scott’s critically acclaimed debut album, Who Is Jill Scott? Vol 1, is a cornerstone of this Philly soul renaissance. With lyrics that weave together themes of love, sensuality, and dating, such as “conversations, verbal elation, stimulation/Maybe we could talk about Surah 31:18,” the track’s slow, smooth, and relatable rhythm reflects the experiences of Black women, delivered by Scott, a powerful vocalist and neo-soul leader. —K.T.
Raphael Saadiq feat. D’Angelo, ‘Be Here’
Raphael Saadiq and D'Angelo performing Be Here
This 2002 duet between neo-soul giants Raphael Saadiq and D’Angelo explores the full spectrum of male romantic desire. Set against a rhythm that is both relaxed and urgent, the two singers detail how they would fulfill their partner’s every wish, from morning breakfast to “sleazin’ and teasin’” at night. The song maintains a simmering sensuality throughout, culminating in an outro where Saadiq and D’Angelo exchange vocal riffs before merging their voices in exquisite harmony. —M. Johnston
Steve Lacy, ‘Bad Habit’
Steve Lacy performing Bad Habit
Steve Lacy initially gained recognition as a guitarist for the alt-R&B group The Internet. However, his 2022 album, Gemini Rights, marked his breakthrough as a solo artist, largely due to the chart-topping hit “Bad Habit.” This summery track delves into the complexities of romantic indecision. (The radio edit, at four minutes, omitted the final minute where Lacy sings, “you can’t surprise a Gemini,” showcasing his unique approach to outros.) Fans of The Internet and Lacy’s earlier work, including songs like “Dark Red” and “N Side,” were already familiar with his introspective style. “Bad Habit” broadened Lacy’s appeal, resonating with a wide audience who connected with the opening line, “I wish I knew you wanted me.” —M.Jordan
Tweet feat. Missy Elliott, ‘Oops (Oh My)’
Tweet performing Oops (Oh My)
Soulful singer Tweet’s anthem of self-appreciation gained mainstream appeal thanks to Timbaland’s innovative production and Missy Elliott’s playful narration. Charlene Keys’ 2002 single—sometimes misconstrued as a Y2K R&B rendition of “I Touch Myself”—derives its true power from her joyful vocal performance, perfectly capturing the surprise of feeling comfortable in one’s own skin. As Elliott posted in 2021, “It was always about her appreciating her Dark Skin (Self Love) when she looked in the mirror… It was the listeners that thought it was about sex & just ran with it… & we just let the consumers mind create what they wanted.” —M. Johnston
D’Angelo and the Vanguard, ‘Really Love’
D'Angelo performing Really Love at a concert
It took D’Angelo nearly 15 years to follow up his 2000 album Voodoo, a period marked by battles with depression, addiction, and writer’s block. However, “Really Love” was always intended for Black Messiah. Questlove initially leaked the track in 2007, and even then, its vibrant melody was evident, with flamenco guitars spiraling around D’Angelo’s vocals. In the final version, string arrangements add a layer of melancholy. This ecstatic track is foundational to the masterpiece that is Black Messiah. —C.P.
Childish Gambino, ‘Redbone’
Childish Gambino performing Redbone at Governors Ball
The fact that Childish Gambino, the rap persona of actor Donald Glover, would create one of the most popular and funky R&B tracks of the 2010s was unexpected, even for Gambino himself. “I didn’t expect it to be a zeitgeist song,” he stated in 2017. “Like, it seemed like it just crawled in there … it’s cool that people connected to it. I feel like that’s exactly what you want to do as an artist.” He utilized his less-frequently showcased vocal talents, particularly a striking falsetto, channeling the spirit of Bootsy Collins for a new generation. —M.C.
Jagged Edge, ‘Let’s Get Married’
Jagged Edge performing Let's Get Married
Originally, “Let’s Get Married” was a subdued reflection on commitment, tinged with dissatisfaction with single life. (“Frankly, girl, I’m tired of this emptiness” is not the most romantic proposal.) However, Jermaine Dupri’s “ReMarqable remix” transformed the track into a wedding reception staple. By pairing the plaintive vocals with upbeat horns and a memorable guest verse from Rev Run, the remix shifted the song’s tone from hesitant to passionately romantic, portraying a deep connection between two individuals. —C.P.
The Weeknd, ‘Wicked Games’
The Weeknd performing Wicked Games
“Bring the drugs, baby, I could bring my pain,” The Weeknd croons in “Wicked Games,” set against gothic guitar riffs and stark drum beats. This debut single cast a seductive shadow over the pop landscape, one that persists today. Abel Tesfaye, emerging from Toronto, reimagined the late-night lover as a figure of profound need and aggression—moody, needy, and intensely driven. Lines like the passive-aggressive “I’ll give you what I need” should have been off-putting, yet his captivating falsetto has drawn listeners in for over a decade. —J.D.
Ne-Yo, ‘So Sick’
Ne-Yo performing So Sick
Shaffer Smith, known as Ne-Yo, excels in songwriting detail, a quality evident in his hit “So Sick.” The song poignantly captures the everyday reminders of lost love in the mid-2000s, from answering machine messages to the constant stream of love songs on the radio. Ne-Yo’s understated vocal delivery adds a bittersweet layer to the song’s melancholy, making his inability to change the radio station feel genuinely tragic and relatable. —M. Johnson
Musiq Soulchild, ‘Love’
Musiq Soulchild performing Love
Musiq Soulchild, a singer-songwriter and Rhodes keyboardist, emerged during the peak of the Philly soul revival spearheaded by Questlove of The Roots. His platinum-selling debut, Aijuswanaseing, featured “Love,” an R&B anthem that he subtly subverts with the Soulquarians era’s signature woozy tones and off-rhythm nuances. This is evident in Musiq’s delivery of the chorus, along with backing vocals from Kindred the Family Soul and Aaries. “Love/So many people use your name in vain,” he sings, pausing deliberately between “your name in vain.” The track remains a landmark of neo-soul innovation. —M.R.
Bilal, ‘Soul Sista’
Bilal performing Soul Sista
Bilal, a vocal prodigy from Philadelphia, secured a record deal after a demo caught attention while he studied at New York’s New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music. He soon collaborated with producers like Dr. Dre and J. Dilla. His 2001 debut, 1st Born Second, was praised for its organic, relaxed vibe, characteristic of the neo-soul movement. The album’s standout single, “Soul Sista,” is a lush tribute to an exceptional woman, featuring a languid groove and passionate background vocals that perfectly complement Bilal’s cool sensuality. —J.D.
Estelle feat. Kanye West, ‘American Boy’
Estelle and Kanye West performing American Boy
Big cities have rarely sounded as alluring as in Estelle’s “American Boy” from 2008. Her airy vocals glide over heavy bass and cricket-like synths. This Grammy-winning track introduced the UK singer to American audiences, anchored by Kanye West, then at his peak, and co-written by John Legend and will.i.am. The song paints a dreamlike picture of New York and Los Angeles through the eyes of a visitor, filled with infatuation, confident men of average height, and local fashion references (peacoats received a notable mention). It avoids overly romanticizing love in America, instead portraying romance in a major US city as potentially fleeting, materialistic, and as dazzling as Times Square. —E.B.
Snoh Aalegra, ‘I Want You Around’
Snoh Aalegra performing I Want You Around
Snoh Aalegra is known for her cool demeanor, which she often playfully subverts. The Swedish singer captures the intense tension of being infatuated with someone while holding back for fear of rejection. The heavy beats combined with light piano melodies, crafted by producers Cam O’bi and Rob Holladay, provide the ideal backdrop for Aalegra’s yearning vocals, enhanced by echoes from Dutch singer Levin Kali. “I Want You Around,” from her album Ugh, Those Feels Again, took 41 weeks to reach the top of the Billboard R&B chart after its 2019 release. —E.B.
Anthony Hamilton, ‘The Point of It All’
Anthony Hamilton performing The Point of It All in New York
Southern soul artist Anthony Hamilton expresses deep devotion in “The Point of It All,” the title track from his fourth album, declaring that his world revolves around his loved one. Hamilton’s vocals are reminiscent of Bill Withers and Al Green, especially when he reaches his higher register. The spacious arrangement combines a crisp beat with electric piano, gospel organ, and guitar twang, creating layers around Hamilton’s multitracked vocals. His heartfelt declaration, “The point of it all, is I love you,” is delivered with undeniable conviction. —J.F.
Carl Thomas, ‘I Wish’
Carl Thomas performing I Wish
Carl Thomas, though underappreciated in the mainstream, is revered within R&B as a gifted singer-songwriter who maintained traditional soul in the 2000s. His 2000 debut, Emotional, remains a genre classic. “I Wish,” the album’s hit single, narrates the story of a man falling for a woman with a family. It showcases Thomas’s smooth vocals while retaining a contemporary feel that appealed to various generations. Jay-Z even sampled “I Wish” in his 2000 hit “I Just Wanna Love U (Give It 2 Me).” —K.T.
Ginuwine, ‘Differences’
Ginuwine performing Differences
Ginuwine is often remembered for the sexually charged “Pony,” his collaboration with Timbaland that significantly influenced pop music. However, the D.C. singer also produced several sincere romantic hits, including “Differences.” This track exudes genuine romanticism. “My whole life has changed/Since you came in, I knew back then/You were that special one/I’m so in love, so deep in love,” he sings in the memorable chorus. Produced by Troy Oliver, the song soars as Ginuwine sings with passionate soulfulness, “I’m addicted to your love, baby!”—M.R.
Fantasia, ‘When I See U’
Fantasia performing When I See U
Fantasia Barrino’s passionate performance in “When I See You” has captivated audiences over time. “Something now is taking over me,” she powerfully sings in the bridge, a relatable sentiment. The song’s ability to evoke passionate singalongs, especially among men, at weddings or clubs, underscores its nostalgic charm and timeless appeal. —M.C.
Amerie, ‘1 Thing’
Amerie performing 1 Thing
“1 Thing” is ostensibly about a specific action by a lover, but the real highlight is the rhythm. Rich Harrison’s 10-second sample of The Meters’ “Oh, Calcutta!” is iconic, blending bongos, cowbells, and crash cymbals into a dizzying, call-and-response frenzy. Amerie thrives in this dynamic soundscape, adding new rhythms and catchy hooks. By the end, she ascends into vocal runs, propelled by the liberating beat. —C.P.
Rihanna, ‘Needed Me’
“Didn’t they tell you that I was a savage?” Rihanna questions a clingy ex in 2016’s “Needed Me.” This track showcases the Bajan superstar at her most icily detached, dismissing the notion of a relationship beyond a casual encounter. DJ Mustard’s production creates a dark, atmospheric backdrop with ghostly synths, dubstep elements, and sharp snare drums, perfectly complementing Rihanna’s vocal prowess. Her ability to embody characters with effortless swagger is unmatched. —J.F.
The-Dream, ‘Falsetto’
The-Dream performing Falsetto
Terius Nash, known as The-Dream, co-wrote hits like Beyoncé’s “Single Ladies” in the late 2000s and frequently contributed to albums by Rihanna and Kanye West. Choosing his best solo track is challenging, with hits like “Rockin’ That Thang,” “Shawty Is a 10,” and “I Luv Your Girl” remaining R&B radio staples. However, “Falsetto,” his 2007 solo hit, best represents his musical range. It’s a song ideal for romantic settings, complete with a guitar solo and vocal acrobatics that live up to its title. —M.Jordan
Silk Sonic, ‘Leave the Door Open’
Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak of Silk Sonic performing Leave the Door Open
Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak’s debut as Silk Sonic, “Leave the Door Open,” could have easily been a mere retro tribute in less capable hands. Instead, it became a masterful blend of classic Seventies and Eighties influences, lush production, and smooth vocal harmonies. Warm, romantic, and slightly humorous, the song’s bridge is a joy to sing along to. Mars and Paak’s musical synergy is remarkable; Paak’s raspy, funk-infused vocals and drumming combined with Mars’ pop sensibilities created a perfect, comforting track during the post-Covid return to social life. —N.C.
Chris Brown, ‘Yo! (Excuse Me Miss)’
Chris Brown performing Yo! (Excuse Me Miss)
With his charming smile, youthful vocals, and energetic dance moves, Chris Brown captured the hearts of young audiences with “Yo! Excuse Me Miss.” His debut single ushered in a new era for Black teen-pop idols. This contemporary R&B hit, produced by Dre and Vidal, with its infectious youthful charm, paved the way for Brown to become a prominent figure of young Black talent in pop music. —K.T.
Beyoncé, ‘1 + 1’
Beyoncé performing 1+1
“1 + 1” marks a pivotal moment in Beyoncé’s evolution from pop superstar to cultural icon. While some argue her early solo work was undervalued, “1 + 1” showcases her remarkable artistry. Referencing Boyz II Men’s intro on “Uhh Ahh,” she performs with an intensity reminiscent of the JBs. The performance echoes her 2008 hit “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)” but with increased speed and sharpness. This track signifies a shift, similar to James Brown’s transition from “I Got You” to “Sex Machine,” signaling Beyoncé’s move towards even greater artistic heights. —M.R.
Jazmine Sullivan, ‘Pick Up Your Feelings’
Jazmine Sullivan performing Pick Up Your Feelings
Though a consistent presence in contemporary R&B, Jazmine Sullivan’s “Pick Up Your Feelings” elevated her to the genre’s elite. Featured on her 2021 EP, Heaux Tales, this Grammy-winning breakup anthem is a therapeutic farewell to a former lover. Instead of dwelling on the past, the Philadelphia artist focuses on self-healing. As the song progresses, her confidence and vocal prowess grow, solidifying her status as a formidable force in R&B. —J.J.
Usher, ‘U Don’t Have to Call’
Usher performing U Don't Have to Call
Usher’s third album, 8701, explored relationship dynamics, possibly reflecting his real-life relationship with Chilli of TLC. “U Don’t Have to Call,” the album’s third single, followed the ballad “U Got It Bad” with a shift towards a club vibe. Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo of The Neptunes produced the track, contributing to their early 2000s sonic dominance. Their signature spacey synths created an upbeat backdrop for Usher’s seemingly nonchalant yet melodic message to a former flame. It’s a millennial take on Lou Rawls’ “You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine,” enduring as a time capsule of 2001’s sound and a classic post-breakup song. —N.C.
Alicia Keys, ‘You Don’t Know My Name’
Alicia Keys performing You Don't Know My Name
The lead single from The Diary of Alicia Keys depicts a woman longing to express her admiration for someone. Keys and Kanye West’s production team blends their old-school sensibilities, with Keys humming over a hip-hop-inspired rendition of The Main Ingredient’s “Let Me Prove My Love to You,” highlighted by her piano skills. Sampled by Lil Wayne and Westside Gunn, this Grammy-winning modern classic continues to resonate deeply. —J.J.
Janet Jackson, ‘All for You’
Janet Jackson performing All For You
While Janet Jackson’s 1997 album, The Velvet Rope, leaned towards the serious and sensual, her 2001 follow-up, All for You, adopted a lighter tone. The title track signaled this shift with its effervescent dance-pop feel, enhanced by Jackson’s soulful vocals. Sampling Change’s 1980 hit “The Glow of Love,” “All for You” adds a disco touch as Jackson flirts in a club setting, delivering playful lines with a wink. —I.K.
SiR, ‘John Redcorn’
SiR performing John Redcorn
SiR, from Inglewood, California, achieved critical acclaim with Chasing Summer, a compelling R&B album filled with desire, longing, and introspection. “John Redcorn,” a standout track, soulfully embodies the romantic angst of the King of the Hill character it’s named after, avoiding caricature. The collaboration between SiR, TDE producer Kal Banx, and musician Jeff “Gitty” Gitelman is seamless. Banx and Gitelman have also contributed to soundscapes for artists like Jorja Smith. From SiR’s plaintive “Why am I alone when I know that you want me too?” to the smoky guitar undertones, “John Redcorn” is immersive, like a captivating TV episode. —M.C.
Destiny’s Child, ‘Cater 2 U’
Destiny's Child performing Cater 2 U
In a departure from their typical anthems for women, Destiny’s Child’s “Cater 2 U,” from their final album Destiny Fulfilled, is an ode to female devotion. Gentle synths create an intimate atmosphere as the trio sings about catering to their partner’s comfort. While “Cater 2 U” has sparked debate for its submissive lyrics, its masterful harmonies and composition, which initially propelled Destiny’s Child to stardom, remain undeniable. —J.J.
Michael Jackson, ‘You Rock My World’
Michael Jackson performing You Rock My World
When Invincible was released in 2001, Michael Jackson was perceived as past his prime. However, “You Rock My World,” produced by Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins, reaffirmed his enduring legacy. With its infectious rhythm, impeccable vocals, and signature MJ flair, it was not only a stellar addition to the R&B canon but also a symbol of the King of Pop’s lasting influence. As one of his final major hits before his death eight years later, it serves as a poignant reminder of his unparalleled impact on the genre. —K.T.
SZA, ‘Snooze’
SZA performing Snooze
SZA’s discography explores love stories far from fairy tales, more akin to Scarface than Cinderella. In “Snooze,” from her album SOS, she details fierce loyalty for someone who barely reciprocates. Layers of harmonies blend with flickering synths as SZA pledges unwavering devotion in both love and lust. —L.P.
Solange, ‘Cranes in the Sky’
Solange performing Cranes in the Sky
“Cranes in the Sky” lists Solange’s challenges on her journey to healing, from substance use to self-image issues. With Raphael Saadiq’s orchestral production, it becomes a powerful statement of her quest for inner peace. Released alongside introspective albums by Rihanna and Beyoncé, “Cranes in the Sky” articulated a new sense of spiritual liberation for Black millennial and Gen Z women. —K.T.
Toni Braxton, ‘He Wasn’t Man Enough’
Toni Braxton performing He Wasn't Man Enough
With “He Wasn’t Man Enough” in 2000, Toni Braxton delivered a feminist anthem of self-respect. Featured on The Heat, the track boldly declares independence from male emotional and physical needs, advising other women to do the same. “… Listen, girl/Didn’t he tell you the truth?/If not then, why don’t you ask him?” she advises. It exemplifies Braxton’s revered status in R&B over recent decades. —I.K.
Maxwell, ‘Pretty Wings’
Maxwell shaped and expanded neo-soul before returning as a seasoned artist with 2009’s BLACKsummers’night and 2016’s blackSUMMERS’night. “Pretty Wings,” from the first of this trilogy, is a poignant breakup song that avoids bitterness. It sounds as if the breakup clarifies his love for his partner, with their independence reigniting his passion. Warped glockenspiels chime, suggesting life continues, and the album concludes quietly, reflecting this sentiment. —C.P.
Aaliyah, ‘Rock the Boat’
Though her career was brief, Aaliyah profoundly impacted R&B. Her 2001 single “Rock the Boat” epitomized her genre-bending approach, creating a sensual, funk-infused groove that celebrated sexual freedom. “I want you to rock the boat, rock the boat/Rock the boat, rock the boat/Work it in the middle, work the middle,” she commands. Tragically, Aaliyah died the year “Rock the Boat” was released, but its allure confirmed she was reaching her artistic peak. —I.K.
Beyoncé, ‘Love on Top’
In “Love on Top,” from Beyoncé’s transformative 2011 album 4, her joy is palpable as she sings about a devoted lover. The Grammy-winning track’s highlight is its repeated chorus, showcasing Beyoncé’s effortless key changes. She cited her role as Etta James in Cadillac Records as inspiration for her passionate vocals, while the production evokes 1980s R&B-pop. This classic vibe and Beyoncé’s exuberance make it a standout in her discography. —J.J.
Daniel Caesar and H.E.R., ‘Best Part’
H.E.R. and Daniel Caesar performing Best Part at the BET Awards
Amid trap anthems and pop hits, “Best Part” demonstrated the power of simplicity. Featured on both Daniel Caesar and H.E.R.’s 2017 projects, its clean guitar and beat allow their poetic lyrics to shine. “You’re my coffee that I need in the morning,” H.E.R. sings, while Caesar adds, “You’re my water when I’m stuck in the desert.” The Grammy-winning track evokes nostalgia, reminiscent of 1970s and 80s R&B, capturing the essence of love as easy, pure, and powerful. —J.J.
Pharrell Williams feat Jay-Z, ‘Frontin’ ‘
“Frontin’”’s impact wasn’t immediate, but its blend of hip-hop and R&B has influenced artists like Brent Faiyaz, Bryson Tiller, and Tyler, the Creator. It features classic early 2000s elements: a Neptunes beat, Prince-inspired Pharrell vocals, a memorable bridge, a Jay-Z verse about Beyoncé, and a music video that launched Billionaire Boys Club. “Frontin’” undeniably left its mark on future music generations. —K.T.
Miguel, ‘Adorn’
Miguel performing Adorn
The lead single from Miguel’s Kaleidoscope Dream (2012) offers a glimpse into the album’s funk, psychedelia, and soul explorations. “Adorn” is a wide-eyed love declaration set to a steady beat, allowing Miguel’s improvisational vocal runs and upper register to shine. It’s a timeless love song detailing romantic bliss. —M. Johnston
Brandy, ‘Full Moon’
Brandy performing Full Moon
Brandy’s Full Moon album set a new standard for R&B vocalists, alongside producers Darkchild and LaShawn Daniels. Mike City produced the standout title track, “Full Moon.” Its opening piano melody transitions to distorted thumps and driving production, around which Brandy’s ethereal vocals weave. “This could very well be the start of something special,” she sings, prophetically. The R&B trope of meeting and connecting on the dance floor is elevated as Brandy becomes entranced by lunar infatuation. —L.P.
Erykah Badu, ‘Bag Lady (Cheeba Sac Radio Edit)’
Erykah Badu performing Bag Lady
In “Bag Lady,” Erykah Badu directly addresses her female audience about emotional baggage. “One day, he gon’ say, ‘You crowdin’ my space,’” she wryly sings. The “Cheeba Sac” remix samples Isaac Hayes’ “Bumpy’s Lament,” similar to Dr. Dre’s “XXXplosive.” While Dre’s song objectified women, Badu urges women to “pack light” and free themselves from burdens. “When someone hurts you oh so bad inside, you can’t deny it, you can’t stop crying,” she empathizes. Badu uses musical sleight of hand to deliver a message of letting go. —M.R.
John Legend, ‘Ordinary People’
John Legend performing Ordinary People
John Legend’s signature hit, “Ordinary People,” will soundtrack expressions of love for years to come. Backed by simple piano, it tells a story of love beyond initial romance, facing real-world challenges. It’s a sweeping ballad, yet grounded in everyday moments of grace and vulnerability, showcasing Legend’s ability to make grand melodies relatable. —E.B.
Alicia Keys, ‘Fallin’ ‘
Alicia Keys performing Fallin'
“Fallin’” launched Alicia Keys’ career. Written when she was just 17 and released when she was 20, it became a critically acclaimed single in 2001, showcasing her classical piano background and pop aspirations. This bluesy R&B ballad features Keys’ powerful, Aretha Franklin-esque vocals over wistful piano, singing “I keep on fallin’ in and out of love with you” with poignant emotion, bringing old-school flair into the 21st century. —I.K.
Frank Ocean, ‘Thinkin Bout You’
Frank Ocean performing Thinkin Bout You
Originally intended for Bridget Kelly, “Thinkin Bout You” captures the spectrum of heartbreak emotions. Initially released and removed via Tumblr in 2011, this minimalist, Grammy-nominated track conveys emotional depth subtly. Frank Ocean’s tender lyrics, “thinks about [him] still,” hinted at his bisexuality, adding a layer of personal vulnerability. Its relatability resonated with listeners, making it the focal point of Channel Orange, the 2012 album that established Ocean as a leading artist of the 2010s. —J.J.
Mariah Carey, ‘We Belong Together’
Mariah Carey performing We Belong Together
After some early 2000s missteps, Mariah Carey needed a hit, and “We Belong Together” (2005) became her first Number One in five years. From The Emancipation of Mimi, this ballad is a plea to an ex-lover, exploring heartbreak’s devastation. A warm R&B piano ballad, elevated by Carey’s five-octave range, it includes her signature whistle notes. “Baby/When you left I lost a part of me (together)/It’s still so hard to believe (come back, come back)/Come back, baby, please (come back, come back)/’Cause we belong together,” she sings. It’s a beloved song from one of pop’s greatest voices. —I.K.
Mary J Blige, ‘Be Without You’
Mary J. Blige performing Be Without You
“Be Without You,” from Mary J. Blige’s The Breakthrough (2005), combines her soulful style with Bryan-Michael Cox, Johntá Austin, and Jason Perry’s production. The Queen of Hip-Hop Soul reaffirms her reign, reflecting on unconditional love and resilience with honesty. This two-time Grammy-winning hit peaked at Number Three on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2006. Despite its poignant resonance in Blige’s personal life post-separation, it remains one of her greatest achievements. —J.J.
Beyoncé, ‘Dangerously in Love 2’
Beyoncé posing for a portrait
Rereleased two years after its Destiny’s Child debut on Survivor, “Dangerously In Love 2” surpasses the original. Replacing Spanish guitar with piano and hip-hop elements, it showcased Beyoncé’s burgeoning solo sound. Her talent takes center stage, expressing deepening infatuation. Its resurgence during Beyoncé’s Renaissance World Tour highlighted its timelessness, renewing appreciation for her artistry. —J.J.
D’Angelo, ‘Untitled (How Does It Feel)’
D'Angelo performing Untitled (How Does It Feel)
D’Angelo emerged in the mid-90s, pioneering live instruments and organic vibes in an era of digital R&B. The neo-soul movement he inspired grew, but fame unsettled him. He took five years between Brown Sugar (1995) and Voodoo (2000), a masterpiece pushing his sound inward. “Untitled (How Does It Feel),” the seven-minute single, signaled this vision with Prince-like eroticism, a groove as sculpted as his physique in the video, and vocals like a psychedelic Al Green. —J.D.
Usher, ‘Confessions Part II’
Usher performing Confessions
Just as Michael Jackson’s Thriller inspired pop stars, Usher’s Confessions (2004) defined the early 2000s, asserting urban music’s pop center stage. Confessions sold over 10 million copies, influencing artists like Chris Brown, Justin Bieber, and Drake. “Confessions Part II” set a new R&B standard with emotional depth, narrative (inspired by Jermaine Dupri’s life), and Usher’s vocals. Blending poignant storytelling with a sultry soundscape foreshadowing Atlanta trap, Confessions permeated pop culture. Usher’s NPR Tiny Desk Concert performance of “Confessions Part II” became a meme. Nearly 20 years later, the video promoted Usher’s Super Bowl halftime show. The song perfectly mixed production, storytelling, marketing, and talent—a blend of tradition and modernity that still resonates. —K.T.
