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

Sex MachineJames Brown36rank/position

james brown – sex machine

Legendary soul singer James Brown.

He is known not only for soul and R&B but also as an artist who had a tremendous influence on funk.

He debuted in the 1950s, but initially found success only on charts in the American South and in R&B.

It was in the 1960s that he achieved nationwide popularity, and with him at the forefront, the musical genre of funk became known around the world.

His song “Sex Machine” is one of his signature tracks, released in 1970.

While it wasn’t an enormous hit at the time, it has remained a classic that continues to be played for many years up to the present.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

PUSH 2 STARTTyla37rank/position

Tyla – PUSH 2 START (Official Music Video)

This is a track by Tyla, the South African artist who drew global attention with her 2024 Grammy win.

Featured on the deluxe edition Tyla+, an expansion of the acclaimed album Tyla, the song explores equality in romantic relationships.

With lyrics that tell a partner, “If we’re going to start something, show your worth through actions,” the confident protagonist comes vividly to life.

Its cool, smooth sound with Amapiano influences is perfect for a summer evening drive.

Maybe the secret to the best relationships is lifting each other up.

Why not take a positive step forward, believing in your own worth, while listening to this track?

Can’t Stop the MusicVillage People38rank/position

Village People – Can’t Stop The Music – 20-7-1980 • TopPop

From the late 1970s to the 1980s, the Village People enjoyed worldwide popularity with their catchy disco music.

They released many classic songs everyone knows, such as Y.M.C.A., covered by Hideki Saijo, and Go West, covered by the Pet Shop Boys.

The song introduced here is the theme for the 1980 musical film Can’t Stop the Music, which centers on the Village People.

Although the film received dismal reviews, many people may be reminded of those days when they hear this track.

The catchy melody that repeats the title is great, isn’t it?

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

KOH-1

Report a problem

I Love The NightlifeAlicia Bridges39rank/position

Alicia Bridges – I Love The Nightlife (1978)

The birth of a song that epitomizes the golden age of disco came in 1978.

Alicia Bridges, an American artist, delivered a dazzling dance number that vividly portrays a woman heading to the dance floor to mend a broken heart.

Infused with elements of Memphis soul, the track peaked at No.

5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and gained popularity around the world, including in Australia and the Netherlands.

It has been featured on numerous soundtracks and continues to be cherished across generations, appearing in films such as 1979’s Love at First Bite and 1994’s Priscilla.

It’s a song you can genuinely enjoy when you feel like cutting loose on the dance floor.

Can’t Let GoAnthony Hamilton40rank/position

Anthony Hamilton – Can’t Let Go (Official HD Video)

Anthony Hamilton is one of the leading singers in the R&B world.

He was even invited by President Obama to perform at the White House.

In 2005, he released the song “Can’t Let Go.” The track features Mark Batson, known as both a singer and a producer.

Thanks to that collaboration, the lyrics, the track, and the vocals all come together to create a flawless piece of work.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

yamamoto

Report a problem

No More TearsBarbra Streisand & Donna Summer41rank/position

Barbra Streisand / Donna Summer – No More Tears (Enough is Enough) (Extended Version)

This is a song that moves you with its intro piano chord progression and a lyrical style that gently, patiently sings from the very first line.

If you’re a fan of Western music from the ’70s, you might know it: a track by the actress and singer Barbra Streisand.

Or so you think—midway through, it makes a dramatic shift, transforming into a super funky, danceable tune.

It’s a legendary track that had a profound influence on later generations.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Murakami Shinpei

Report a problem

Call MeBlondie42rank/position

Blondie – Call me

A classic by Blondie, a female band that epitomizes new wave, with their one-of-a-kind sound and super cool, edgy vocals.

They’re an electro band known for their groundbreaking sound that shattered the norms and conventions of the time.

It’s a new wave rock number with fans around the world, the kind you’ll occasionally feel like revisiting—never losing its luster no matter how much time passes.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Murakami Shinpei

Report a problem