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Classic Western R&B songs to listen to in autumn

Japan has four distinct seasons, and with the greenery turning red in autumn, many people may find themselves wanting to listen to calmer music that suits the scenery.

For those listeners, we’ve selected Western R&B with a touch of melancholy.

From tranquil R&B with a delicate feel to tracks wrapped in a sensual mood, we’ve picked songs from a wide range of styles.

There are brand-new releases as well, so if you love R&B and soul, please relax and enjoy to the very end.

Classic Western R&B songs to listen to in autumn (71–80)

Tell MeSabrina Claudio

Sabrina Claudio – Tell Me (Official Audio)
Tell MeSabrina Claudio

Since her debut in 2016, Sabrina Claudio has continued to release hit songs.

Among them, a track that especially suits autumn is Tell Me.

Her beautiful voice—her greatest charm—together with the lyrics, will undoubtedly soothe your heart.

It’s also a piece where her vocal ability is fully on display.

Throughout the song, the word “Tell me” appears frequently in the lyrics, but the pronunciation differs strikingly each time.

First, give it a listen and let yourself be captivated by her performance.

ChromeSamara Cyn

Samara Cyn – Chrome [Official Music Video]
ChromeSamara Cyn

A track that fuses refined sound with deep self-exploration has arrived.

Tennessee-born Samara Singh released a song in September 2024 that’s set to appear on her debut album, The Drive Home.

Produced by Grammy- and Oscar-winning D’Mile, the piece opens with delicate strings and keys, then weaves in a deep bassline and beat to create a distinctive soundscape.

Centered on the tension between artistic self-discovery and the desire for external validation, its lyrics—delivered with smooth vocals—vividly depict the depths of her heart.

It’s a calm yet compelling song that conveys her growth and inner conflict, perfect for sinking into on a long autumn night.

Hold UpSasha Keable

Sasha Keable – Hold Up (Official Video)
Hold UpSasha Keable

A track marked by a catchy, lingering melody and powerful vocals.

Sasha Keable’s first new release in about three years centers on the theme of emotional recovery after heartbreak and betrayal.

With jazzy piano and commanding choruses, her expressive voice resonates deeply with listeners.

Released in April 2024, the song captivates with its rich sound rooted in R&B and soul, further elevated by production from Charlie Pitts and Kent Jerome.

This release is recommended for anyone who’s gone through a breakup or is ready to take a new step forward.

Sasha Keable’s strong, soulful vocals are sure to give you the push you need.

Western R&B classics to listen to in autumn (81–90)

Same BeatThe J.B.’s

Same Beat – Fred Wesley & The JBs PART 1 & 2
Same BeatThe J.B.'s

This is a track included on the album “Damn Right I Am Somebody,” released in 1974.

The J.B.’s were James Brown’s backing band in the early 1970s.

It’s a funky song with a memorable, repeating guitar riff and lyrics.

Desire MeThe O’Jays

This is a track by the O’Jays, the soul trio known for “Back Stabbers,” included on their 1976 album Message in the Music.

It’s a slow-tempo song that feels soothing when you listen to it.

The HillsThe Weeknd

The Weeknd is a singer-songwriter known for his distinctive R&B infused with synthwave—a music genre that was trendy in the 1980s.

He’s still active in the mainstream today, so many of you are probably familiar with him.

He’s created numerous hits, but one I especially recommend is The Hills.

It’s a stylish R&B track that combines his signature synthwave and R&B.

It’s a perfect song for the cool, crisp atmosphere of autumn.

In The MoodThe Whispers

The Whispers – In The Mood (Official Video)
In The MoodThe Whispers

It’s a track from The Whispers’ 1987 album “Just Gets Better With Time.” Produced by Babyface, as the title suggests, it’s a mood-setting song that showcases the group’s harmonious vocals.