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Classic R&B songs perfect for summer: recommended popular tracks

In Japan, when summer arrives, up-tempo songs that evoke the season start appearing on the scene.

While you can see a similar trend overseas, when it comes to R&B, even if the lyrics evoke summer, the melodies don’t necessarily follow that pattern.

This time, I’ve picked out overseas R&B tracks from the perspective of “suiting summer”! I’ve selected refreshing R&B songs—perfect for summer evenings or relaxation time—across different eras, so whether you’re a fan of Western music or not, be sure to check them out!

Classic R&B songs perfect for summer: Recommended popular tracks (21–30)

Miss YouAaliyah

This R&B classic by Aaliyah—who was celebrated worldwide for her charisma as a multitalented street diva—offers a gently sultry mood that enhances a festive feeling, making it a wistful track perfect for summer.

Before I Let GoBeyoncé

Beyoncé – Before I Let Go (Official Audio)
Before I Let GoBeyoncé

The song itself is a past hit released by Beyoncé, but it saw a revival in May 2019 after being featured in her Netflix film “Homecoming: A Film by Beyoncé.” The film showcases her performance at Coachella 2018 and includes appearances not only by her but also by people close to her, like Jay-Z.

A must-watch for fans!

ScandalousMis-Teeq

This R&B masterpiece by Mystique features a dancer-like track and a high-sense melodic line that, with its unique flair, stirs up a delightful feeling.

Its moody texture balanced with pop appeal gives it a refreshing quality that makes it perfect for summer.

Good DaysSZA

SZA – Good Days (Official Video)
Good DaysSZA

The end of summer brings a bittersweet feeling along with all the happy memories, doesn’t it? There’s a song by R&B artist SZA that gently stays close to that tender mood.

While swaying between past pain and regret, it seeks a glimmer of hope in the future, expressed through her husky, deeply emotive voice.

The lyrics’ world overlaps with the sentimental atmosphere of a summer evening, and listening to it makes your heart tighten.

Released in December 2020 and included on the album “SOS,” the track garnered major attention, reaching No.

3 on Billboard’s R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.

It’s perfect for a quiet night alone, when you want to bask in the memories of a joyful summer.

It’s a song filled with a kind of magic that gently wraps your wistfulness in warmth.

UndecidedChris Brown

Chris Brown – Undecided (Official Video)
UndecidedChris Brown

A hit song released in January 2019 that boldly samples the universally known chorus of Shanice’s “I Love Your Smile.” In the music video, Chris Brown showcases La La Land–level dance moves, which became a hot topic at the time.

Set in a nighttime amusement park, he gracefully confesses past mistakes.

The song is a breakup track about initiating a split.

ImportedJessie Reyez & 6LACK

A collaboration track between Jessie Reyez—known for her girly voice—and the rapper Ricardo Valdez Valentine, better known as 6LACK.

You could interpret it as a cheating song, or as a one-sided love song from 6LACK, with Jessie Reyez laughing as she warns him, “If you get any closer, you’ll drown in love.” It’s a tricky one to pin down, but this kind of thing happens a lot in relationships, doesn’t it? Maybe this kind of distance between the two is actually the most passionate kind of romance.

Free SpiritKhalid

Khalid – Free Spirit (Official Video)
Free SpiritKhalid

Starting with a brisk, driving guitar riff, this song is Khalid’s “Free Spirit.” It’s included on the album of the same name, released in 2019.

Since his debut, he’s enjoyed a string of remarkable successes, and in this track, it seems he’s singing about a philosophy for a new way of life that he’s discovered.

If you’re feeling worn out by the everyday grind, this is a song I’d especially like you to hear.