Popular R&B: Western Music Artist Rankings [2026]

When He’s Not There (feat. Lucky Daye)Kehlani78rank/position

Kehlani – When He’s Not There (feat. Lucky Daye) [Official Audio]

Kehlani’s tattoo-covered look is striking as well.

A singer-songwriter from the United States born in 1995, she has continued to be at the forefront of the scene as one of the leading figures in contemporary R&B.

Released in August 2024, this work has been crafted into a captivating track featuring Lucky Daye.

The lyrics, which portray a secret relationship and complex emotions, are memorable, and Kehlani’s clear vocals blend beautifully with Lucky Daye’s rich harmonies.

Funky TownLipps Inc79rank/position

Lipps Inc. – Funkytown (Official Audio)

Formed around Stephen Greenberg, who transitioned from being a wedding DJ, the American studio band Lipps Inc.

released this track as a single from their debut album “Mouth to Mouth” in March 1980.

It became a disco classic, conquering 28 countries worldwide and topping the Billboard chart for four consecutive weeks.

The song expresses a heartfelt desire to escape a dull everyday life and move to an energizing city.

Cynthia Johnson—who was crowned Miss Black Minnesota—delivers a powerful vocal performance that vividly conveys both a longing for the big city and an impatience with the status quo.

Many of you may remember it from its use in the film Shrek 2.

If you want to change your circumstances and take a step into somewhere new, this song will surely give you a push.

WrongLuh Kel80rank/position

Luh Kel – Wrong (Official Music Video)

If you’re looking for a refreshing track, I recommend Luh Kel’s “Wrong.” It has a trap-style beat with hip-hop elements, yet it’s very melodic, making it easy on the ears even for those new to Western music.

The track’s blend of coolness with hints of cuteness creates a unique, unprecedented atmosphere.

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Saitō Ayumu

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Ain’t No Stopping Us NowMcFadden & Whitehead81rank/position

McFadden & Whitehead – Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now (Official Audio)

This disco anthem carries a powerful message of overcoming adversity—“No one can stop us anymore!” It was the debut single released in April 1979 by the Philadelphia duo McFadden & Whitehead, a work that can be seen as their declaration of independence as ace songwriters.

Its exhilarating beat and lavish strings embody a fierce determination to face hardship, giving listeners a strong push forward.

Selling over eight million copies worldwide, the song has been used as a rallying anthem for Philadelphia’s professional sports teams and even in the 2008 U.S.

presidential election.

It’s the kind of track that fills you with positive energy when you’re taking a new step forward.

I’m a WandererMisabella82rank/position

I’m a Wanderer

This track has a vibe that’s quintessentially 80s disco, with synth tones that really stand out.

The synth gives a sense of spaciousness, while the solid, resonant rhythm emphasizes a danceable atmosphere.

Because the arrangement is simple—just vocals, rhythm, and synth—you can focus on each element and feel the fun of the song with your whole body.

The rhythm can feel a bit hurried compared to the tempo of the synth and vocals, so I recommend tuning into the sound through the vocals and synth.

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kappamaki

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Around MeNo Guidnce83rank/position

No Guidnce – Around Me (Official Video)

No Guidance, a four-piece group from the UK drawing attention as leaders of a new era in R&B.

Their new song, released in October 2024, is a moving track that captures the feeling of being left behind while people around you seem to find love with ease.

Created in collaboration with producer HARV and songwriter Felisha King Harvey, the song was crafted in Los Angeles.

It pays homage to ’90s R&B while blending in a modern sensibility, resulting in a distinctive sound.

It’s recommended not only for those who relate to the challenges of love and feelings of loneliness, but also for fans of classic R&B.

The music video is a must-see!

SensitivityRalph Tresvant84rank/position

Ralph Tresvant – Sensitivity (album version)

“Sensitivity” features a sexy, smooth, and flowing groove that was popular in the 1990s and 2000s.

Ralph Tresvant’s delicate vocal style brings out the overall mood.

It’s a track that would definitely lift your spirits on a nighttime drive.

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Ryo

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