Lovely R&B and soul

The Latest: A Quick Guide to Trends in Western R&B Music (2026)

Active club DJkento
Active club DJ. With over five years on the front lines of the club scene, they freely cross over from dance music to US hip-hop and Japanese rap. Blending in their own edits with assured mixing, they craft a unique groove that captivates the floor.
music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

Since the 1990s, after the sophisticated form of “R&B” that many people now imagine became established, the genre produced numerous mega-hits while also branching into subgenres.

From the 2010s onward, trap music dominated the charts, and styles like alternative R&B emerged that were not bound by traditional R&B.

Interestingly, now that we’re in the 2020s, we’re seeing a steady stream of acclaimed songs that reflect the influence of the R&B that dominated the scene in the ’90s and ’00s.

In this article, we’ve compiled standout tracks that make it easy to grasp the latest trends in Western R&B that capture the “now” of the 2020s.

We cover a wide range—from veterans to exciting newcomers—so be sure to check it out!

[Latest] Quick Guide to Trends in Western R&B Music! [2026] (141–150)

It Depends (ft. Bryson Tiller)Chris Brown

Chris Brown – It Depends (Official Lyric Video) ft. Bryson Tiller

It Depends (ft. Bryson Tiller)Chris Brown

This track by American R&B singer Chris Brown shows a deep reverence for ’90s R&B.

Featuring Bryson Tiller, it interpolates part of Usher’s 1997 classic “Nice & Slow,” and many listeners will likely be captivated by its nostalgic yet warm sound.

The groove, woven by their smooth vocals, portrays a complex relationship—one where the answers shift with the situation—in a refined, mature mood.

Released in July 2025, it’s also expected to be performed on the world tour kicking off the same month.

Put it on for a moody night drive or a laid-back weekend, and you’ll surely be immersed in its sophisticated world.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

With YouJorja Smith

Jorja Smith – With You

With YouJorja Smith

This track by the UK-born Jorja Smith features buoyant UK garage beats and dreamy, hazy synths that feel wonderfully soothing.

Known for winning the BRIT Critics’ Choice Award in 2018, she released this song in July 2025.

The lyrics paint a picture of radiant summer moments spent with a loved one.

Just being with that person makes the noise of the world fade away, filling the heart with a pure sense of happiness—perfectly matched by her soulful, delicate vocals.

It’s a song that adds a fresh splash of color to the career she’s built with albums like Lost & Found.

Ideal for summer drives or relaxing moments with someone special!

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Is It a CrimeMariah the Scientist, Kali Uchis

Mariah the Scientist, Kali Uchis – Is It a Crime (Official Audio)

Is It a CrimeMariah the Scientist, Kali Uchis

An eagerly awaited first collaboration between Mariah the Scientist—an Atlanta-born artist with an unconventional background who once pursued medicine—and Grammy-winning Colombian American artist Kali Uchis, this poignant yet passionate R&B track asks whether loving is a sin.

Through vocals that feel like a dialogue, it portrays the fragility and strength of a protagonist who can’t let go of the one they love, swaying between public scrutiny and inner conflict.

The blend of Mariah’s composed tone and Kali’s luscious vocals seeps deep into the listener’s heart.

The song was released in advance in July 2025 from Mariah’s fourth album, Hearts Sold Separately.

On nights troubled by complicated love, it’s sure to be there by your side.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

To Be FreeSam Smith

Sam Smith – To Be Free (Official Video)

To Be FreeSam Smith

This is a song by Sam Smith that was born during the production of the 2023 album Gloria and lovingly held back for a full five years.

The raw, one-take vocal and guitar performance builds into a breathtaking moment in the latter half as it intertwines with a 22-member choir.

Its powerful message of liberation from oppression and the fierce wish to live authentically resonates like a cry from the soul.

You can feel Sam’s own feelings, as they describe the song as being “like family.” Listen to it when you’re at a crossroads in life or longing to be your true self, and it will leave you with a sense of deep cleansing.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Can’t WaitEric Benét & Keri Hilson

Can’t Wait

Can't WaitEric Benét & Keri Hilson

The long-awaited new track arrived in April 2025 from one of the premier duos in the American R&B scene.

Crafted by Eric Benét and Keri Hilson, the song delivers a groovy disco-R&B vibe that brilliantly captures the excitement before a night out with a lover.

It’s a captivating cut where their smooth vocals complement each other in lush harmony, with producer Camper’s touch shining throughout.

The track serves as the lead single from Benét’s first full-length album in a decade, The Co-Star, released via JBR Creative Group.

The collaboration was reportedly a longtime dream for both artists, and their chemistry is on full display.

For Hilson, it also stands as a significant follow-up to her first album in 15 years, We Need to Talk: Love.

It’s a perfect summer club anthem and a must-hear for fans of sophisticated, mature R&B.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem