The Top 20 R&B Songs of the 21st Century You Need to Listen to

R&B songs of the 21st century

Are you a fan of smooth vocals, soulful melodies, and groovy beats? Then you’re in for a treat! In this article, we’ll take a trip down memory lane and discover the top 20 R&B songs of the 21st century that have made an impact on the music industry and captured the hearts and souls of music lovers worldwide.

The Top 20 R&B Songs of the 21st Century

1. «Crazy in Love» by Beyoncé feat. Jay-Z. Released in 2003, «Crazy in Love» was a game-changer for Beyoncé’s career, and it quickly became a chart-topping hit. This upbeat tune features a catchy horn section, funky guitar riffs, and the infectious chemistry between Beyoncé and her now-husband Jay-Z.
2. «Blurred Lines» by Robin Thicke feat. T.I. and Pharrell Williams. «Blurred Lines» was undoubtedly one of the catchiest songs of 2013, with its infectious beat and playful lyrics. Robin Thicke’s smooth vocals, combined with the rap verses from T.I. and Pharrell Williams, make this song a modern R&B classic.
3. «Foolish» by Ashanti. Ashanti’s breakout hit «Foolish» took the R&B world by storm in 2002, with its soulful vocals and relatable lyrics about a woman’s heartbreak. The song features a sample from The Notorious B.I.G.’s «One More Chance,» adding an old-school vibe to the otherwise contemporary tune.
4. «U Got It Bad» by Usher. With its smooth vocals and soulful lyrics, «U Got It Bad» is undoubtedly one of Usher’s most iconic songs. Released in 2001, the song quickly became a fan favorite and a chart-topping hit.
5. «Adorn» by Miguel. Miguel’s «Adorn» is a sensual and soulful love song that was released in 2012. The song’s smooth vocals and sultry lyrics have made it a modern R&B classic, and it has been covered by countless artists worldwide.
6. «If I Ain’t Got You» by Alicia Keys. Alicia Keys’ soulful ballad «If I Ain’t Got You» is a timeless love song that showcases her powerful vocals and songwriting skills. The song was released in 2003 and quickly became a fan favorite of R&B Songs of the 21st Century.
7. «Fallin'» by Alicia Keys. Another Alicia Keys classic, «Fallin'» is a soulful ballad that features her powerful vocals and piano skills. The song was released in 2001 and became a massive hit, winning several awards and cementing Keys’ status as an R&B icon.
8. «The Boy Is Mine» by Brandy and Monica. «The Boy Is Mine» was a massive hit in 1998 and features Brandy and Monica’s powerful vocals and relatable lyrics about two women fighting over the same man. The song’s catchy hook and memorable chorus have made it a fan favorite.
9. «Say My Name» by Destiny’s Child. «Say My Name» was a massive hit in 2000, and it helped solidify Destiny’s Child’s status as one of the most successful girl groups in music history.
10. «Earned It» by The Weeknd (2015): Originally featured on the Fifty Shades of Grey soundtrack, «Earned It» is a seductive and atmospheric slow jam that showcases The Weeknd’s sultry vocals and impressive range.
11. «Location» by Khalid (2017): Khalid burst onto the R&B scene with this breakout hit, which features a mellow and hypnotic beat that perfectly complements his smooth and soulful vocals.
12. «Exchange» by Bryson Tiller (2015): Bryson Tiller’s «Exchange» is a sultry and emotive track that explores the complexities of a past relationship. The song’s haunting melody and Tiller’s vulnerable delivery make it one of the standout tracks on his debut album, Trapsoul.
13. «Unthinkable (I’m Ready)» by Alicia Keys (2010): Alicia Keys’ powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics make «Unthinkable (I’m Ready)» a standout track from her fourth studio album, The Element of Freedom. The song’s soulful production and poignant message of love and vulnerability have resonated with fans for over a decade.
14. «Dilemma» by Nelly ft. Kelly Rowland (2002): This classic duet between Nelly and Kelly Rowland is a perfect example of early 2000s R&B. The song’s infectious beat and catchy chorus made it an instant hit and a staple at school dances and parties.
15. «Rock With You» by Michael Jackson (2003): Although Michael Jackson’s heyday was in the 80s and 90s, «Rock With You» was released as a posthumous single in 2009 and remains a beloved classic. The song’s funky R&B groove and Jackson’s signature vocals make it impossible not to dance along to.
16. «So Sick» by Ne-Yo (2006): Ne-Yo’s breakout hit «So Sick» is a heart-wrenching ballad that explores the pain of a breakup. The song’s emotional lyrics and Ne-Yo’s smooth vocals make it a standout track from his debut album, In My Own Words.
17. «No Scrubs» by TLC (1999): While «No Scrubs» technically came out in the 90s, its impact on early 2000s R&B cannot be overstated. The song’s catchy chorus and empowering message of self-worth made it an instant classic.
18. «Superwoman» by Alicia Keys: Alicia Keys has been a force in R&B since her debut in 2001, and «Superwoman» is a standout track from her 2008 album «As I Am.» The song is an uplifting anthem for women, with Keys delivering powerful lyrics about strength, resilience, and overcoming adversity. The soulful piano and soaring chorus make it a timeless classic.
19. «Say Yes» by Michelle Williams ft. Beyoncé and Kelly Rowland: This 2014 gospel-infused R&B track features a powerhouse trio of former Destiny’s Child members. The song is a celebration of faith and devotion, with the three vocalists trading verses and harmonizing on the chorus. It’s a joyful and uplifting track that showcases the incredible talent of all three women.
20. «No One» by Alicia Keys: was released in 2007 and quickly became a hit, earning the singer several Grammy nominations. The song’s lyrics convey a message of love and unity, emphasizing that at the end of the day, we are all the same and should treat each other with kindness and respect. The powerful vocals and uplifting melody of the track make it a standout in the R&B genre. It’s no surprise that «No One» has become a timeless classic and a staple at weddings, parties, and other special events. Alicia Keys’ talent and artistry shine through in this unforgettable track, solidifying her place as one of the top R&B artists of the 21st century.

Conclusion R&B Songs of the 21st Century

In conclusion, R&B has evolved tremendously over the past few decades, and these 20 songs represent some of the best the genre has to offer in the 21st century. From slow jams to upbeat anthems, each song on this list showcases the incredible vocal talents and musical innovation that have made R&B such an important part of popular music.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of the genre or just discovering it for the first time, these songs are sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and power of R&B music. So put on your headphones, turn up the volume, and let these 20 R&B Songs of the 21st Century hits take you on a musical journey you won’t soon forget.