Popular R&B: Western Music Artist Rankings [2026]
R&B is one of the most popular music genres worldwide.Originally developed from Black music, it has become a genre loved by people of all races and nationalities.This time, we’ll introduce a ranking of popular international artists who perform R&B.
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Popular R&B: Western Music Artist Rankings [2026] (81–90)
What’d I SayRay Charles85rank/position
Many of you have probably heard the opening keyboard phrase.
There’s a story that the melody for “What’d I Say” was improvised at the end of a concert in December 1958, when there was some time left in the set, and that improvisation became the song as-is.
It’s an important track that paved the way for neo-soul.
Give It To Me BabyRick James86rank/position
If you search by the title alone, you’ll first get The Offspring’s smash hit, but this one is the 1980s dance-classic masterpiece by funk musician Rick James, who’s globally renowned and notorious for his larger-than-life persona.
Released in 1981, it reached No.
1 on the U.S.
dance chart.
From the roaring funky bass line in the intro to the deftly muted guitar and the flamboyant horn section, every element is impeccable.
It’s said that Michael Jackson’s signature track “Thriller” was heavily inspired by the cutting-edge style of this song.
The Best Disco In TownRitchie Family87rank/position
One of the sensations of the 1970s disco scene was The Ritchie Family from Philadelphia, USA.
Despite multiple lineup changes, the group’s distinctive charm never wavered, and they continued to produce danceable, catchy tracks.
Featured on their 1976 album Arabian Nights, this ambitious piece links together lavish disco hits—such as those by the Four Tops and the O’Jays, both hugely popular at the time—into a medley format.
Surrender to the upbeat rhythm and glamorous arrangements, and you’ll find yourself captivated by the disco floor in no time.
The track became a chart hit around the world, and the group was named Top Female Group at Record World’s Disco Awards—truly a masterpiece emblematic of the disco boom.
BirthdayRotimi88rank/position
A sweet, heartwarming love song from Rotimi, a Nigerian-American singer-songwriter.
It paints the scene of a surprise party prepared to celebrate a beloved partner’s birthday, expressed through a refined sound that fuses R&B and soul.
Within its relaxed mid-tempo groove lies a deep affection and gratitude for the lover.
The gentle melody evokes candlelight setting the mood for a night just for two and an intimate atmosphere you can almost see.
Released in May 2024 and included on the album “In My Heart In My Veins,” this track showcases another facet of his multifaceted talent as an actor as well—an ideal song to play when celebrating someone special’s birthday.
I Love Your SmileShanice89rank/position
A classic song that captures the feelings of a woman in love, featuring an exciting melody and radiant vocals.
In the fleeting moments of everyday life, the smile of someone special comes to mind—and that warmth permeates the listener’s heart.
Shanice’s transparent, pure voice beautifully expresses innocent love.
Released in October 1991, this track became one of her signature works and is cherished around the world.
It was also nominated for a Grammy, earning high acclaim within the industry.
Recommended for women struggling with love or for anyone who wants to reaffirm their feelings for someone dear.
Best of My LoveThe Emotions90rank/position
A track from the 1977 release “Rejoice” by an American girl band.
Members of Earth, Wind & Fire were involved in writing and composing the song.
It topped the charts in five English-speaking countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada.
It won a Grammy Award for top honors as well as American music awards, becoming a top classic soul number of the disco era.
The trio harmonies of the members shine, and it features a positive melody.
Popular R&B: Western Music Artist Rankings [2026] (91–100)
Back StabbersThe O’Jays91rank/position
The O’Jays are a legendary soul trio formed in 1958.
If you’re familiar with Black music, you probably know them.
When it comes to their signature songs, many people think of “Back Stabbers.” The charm of this track, above all, lies in its smooth performance.
Rather than being a song centered solely on vocals, it’s the kind of piece where the instrumentation and vocals together function as a single instrument to captivate the listener.