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

Real LoveMary J Blige50rank/position

Mary J blige – Real Love

Recently, the legendary female R&B singer Mary J.

Blige has been attracting attention once again on the front lines.

She’s an artist you simply can’t overlook when talking about 1990s R&B.

She has created numerous classics, but the track I especially recommend for summer is “Real Love.” It’s not exactly a hot, high-energy number, but it’s incredibly groovy and easy to get into, making it perfect as background music for summer drives or parties.

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Ryo

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Let The Music PlayShannon51rank/position

Shannon – Let The Music Play (Official Music Video)

A track whose distinctive synth sound jumps out at you the moment you press play.

It’s irresistibly danceable, and it captures the excitement of electronic music while conveying the sense that synth sound design is limitless.

The vocals feel mature yet approachable, making it an addictive listen.

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Murakami Shinpei

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We Are FamilySISTER SLEDGE52rank/position

Sister Sledge – We Are Family (Official Music Video)

A classic that emerged in 1979, during the golden age of disco music.

Known as Sister Sledge’s signature work, this powerful track was created by Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards.

Its lyrics celebrating family bonds and unity blend perfectly with a catchy melody.

Included on the album “We Are Family,” it became a major hit, reaching No.

2 on the Billboard Hot 100.

It has also been strongly embraced by the LGBTQ community and is well known as a song frequently played at gay pride parades.

It’s a surefire choice to instantly lift the mood at gatherings such as weddings and house parties.

Boogie FeverThe Sylvers53rank/position

The Sylvers – Boogie Fever (Midnight Special 1976)

The Silvers, an R&B family group from Los Angeles, released a disco groove in the mid-1970s that became a massive hit.

With its catchy melody and rhythmic sound, the upbeat track quickly captivated dance floors around the world.

In 1976, it even reached No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100, cementing a brilliant achievement.

Produced by Freddie Perren and centered on Edmund Sylvers’ lead vocals, the piece shines with tight harmonies from the nine siblings.

It has continued to be featured across various media, including the film Despicable Me and ads for Intel and Old Navy.

It’s a perfect track to elevate a party scene or get you dancing when you need a mood boost, letting you fully enjoy an exhilarating disco sound.

I DoToosii, Muni Long54rank/position

Toosii, Muni Long – I Do

This is a gem of a duet that sings a sweet and bittersweet vow of love.

The elegant harmonies woven by U.S.

artists Tusi and Muni Long blend beautifully with a nostalgic 2000s sound.

Featured on the album “JADED,” the track richly portrays deep affection and devotion to a partner.

Released in October 2024, it drew major attention with airplay on BET Jams and BET Soul and promotions in New York’s Times Square.

The music video, starring Trevor Jackson and Malik Bazille, is also captivating for its romantic yet humorous direction.

It’s a highly recommended song for those who cherish their bond with a loved one or are seeking a heartwarming love ballad.

The HustleVan McCoy55rank/position

Van McCoy – “The Hustle”

Released in 1975.

It debuted at No.

1 on the Billboard weekly chart upon release.

Written and composed by hitmaker Van McCoy, its memorable chorus sticks in your head.

It became their best-selling single with over 10 million copies sold and won a Grammy the following year.

It also gained popularity in Japan, dominating the Oricon chart at No.

1 for more than two months.

Many people may recognize it from commercials.

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en

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Crush (feat. Jorja Smith)AJ Tracey56rank/position

AJ Tracey – Crush (feat. Jorja Smith)

A heart-melting R&B tune from London-born AJ Tracey teaming up with fellow Londoner Jorja Smith.

Grime and R&B meet to spark a fresh chemical reaction.

Smith’s sultry vocals intertwine with Tracey’s cool rap, vividly capturing the exhilaration and uncertainty of falling in love.

Released in February 2025 to coincide with Valentine’s Day, the track is produced by P2J and features sound design that evokes the golden era of 2000s R&B.

It’s perfect for moments when you want to savor the sweet anticipation of romance or bask in memories with someone special.

Its smooth groove is sure to give your love life a gentle push.