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[2026] Must-Listen R&B Masterpieces: From Timeless Classics to Recent Favorites

R&B, which has its roots in soul and gospel, has continued to evolve over time.

In the 1990s, it entered a new golden era through fusion with New Jack Swing and hip-hop, and since then a wide array of sounds has continued to emerge.

Sweet, heartrending melodies, groove-rich beats, vocals that resonate with the soul—this genre has an irresistible charm that’s hard to escape once you’re hooked.

In this article, we introduce essential R&B albums, focusing mainly on works from the 1990s onward while also considering their influence on later scenes.

From classic masterpieces to key releases in the genre known as alternative R&B that emerged in the 2010s and beyond, we’ve selected titles you’ll want to experience on vinyl as well.

[2026] R&B Masterpieces You Should Hear at Least Once: From Classics to Recent Favorites (71–80)

That’s What’s UpAlicia Keys

A quiet, minimal song released by American singer-songwriter Alicia Keys through her SoundCloud account on January 25, 2017, her 36th birthday.

It samples Kings Of Tomorrow’s 2005 track “So Alive.”

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I WishR. Kelly

This is a song dedicated to many of his late friends and his mother.

It was originally planned to feature the rapper 2Pac, but unfortunately, 2Pac was shot and killed before it could be recorded.

It peaked at number 14 on the US R&B chart.

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In conclusion

Timeless R&B classics have a resonance that touches the heart across generations.

In particular, this genre’s warm sound when enjoyed on vinyl offers a special experience you can’t get from digital formats.

If an album catches your eye, drop the needle and immerse yourself in its depths.

You’re sure to discover a favorite record that’s uniquely yours.