Today's R&B: A curated playlist packed with classic hits!
R&B is a musical genre born from the evolution of the blues.
It emerged in the 1940s, and countless works have been produced since the 1960s.
Timeless classics by renowned artists such as Stevie Wonder and Prince are still cherished by many R&B fans today.
In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of exquisite R&B songs that we especially recommend for today.
The featured tracks are updated daily, so if you’d like to broaden your knowledge of the genre, be sure to check back often!
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Today's R&B: Many classic hits! Curated playlist (1–10)
October SkyBUMKEY
Bunky, an R&B singer who also shines as a member of the hip-hop group TROY, captivates with vocals that have a perfectly relaxed, subtly wavering feel.
His voice wraps each track in a uniquely Bunky world and a sweet atmosphere.
The slow tempo adds a stylish touch that feels just right.
It’s the kind of music you’ll want to sit back with and listen to while thinking of the October sky.
LimelightDeNeel
Born in Osaka, DeNeel is a captivating band that pioneered their own genre, “OSAKA REVIVAL POP,” elevating elements of classic kayōkyoku into a contemporary sound.
Since forming in 2017, they’ve built a distinctive world with R&B-like grooves, distorted guitar textures, and glossy vocals.
In 2019, they moved their base of operations to Tokyo and have steadily grown their fanbase, with over 380,000 views on their songs on YouTube.
In July 2023, they provided theme songs for anime and films, increasing their media presence.
Each member brings a diverse musical background, creating a neo-kayōkyoku sound.
Blending nostalgia and freshness, their music is a record that can be enjoyed across generations.
PSYCHOFurui Riho
“PSYCHO,” released in August 2023 by Hokkaido-born singer-songwriter Furui Riho.
The lyrics feel like a secret confession of thoughts she wouldn’t usually say out loud, and although the song explores a slightly dark-side mood, its R&B flavor turns it into a danceable track that makes your body want to move.
The cool image that’s one of Furui Riho’s trademarks fits the song perfectly.
The music video is also cute, so be sure to watch it together.
Today's R&B: Many classic hits! Curated playlist (11–20)
RIRIum-hum
um-hum, a progressive R&B band bringing a new sparkle to Osaka’s music scene, is turning heads.
Blending a wide range of genres—soul, jazz, psychedelic rock, and more—their uniquely crafted sound, often described as “alien-like,” invites listeners into an unknown musical experience.
About a year after forming in March 2019, they won the Grand Prix at Kansai’s largest music contest, eo Music Try 19/20, earning broad recognition for their prowess.
Each of the four members contributes a diverse musical background that meshes seamlessly, creating innovative expressions that transcend genre boundaries.
They’re the perfect band for music fans drawn to the fusion of soothing grooves and experimental sound.
Our ThingChoyoung
If you’re looking for R&B with a slightly unusual vibe, “Our Thing” is perfect.
It’s a track released by Choyeon, also known as a member of moderniq.
She’s a top-tier jazz singer as well, and this song blends the atmospheres of R&B and jazz.
First worth noting is the quiet melody of the piano solo.
Layering rap with a jazz-infused flow over it, she constructs a unique sonic world.
Call U Every NiteMICHICO
MICHICO is one of Japan’s leading R&B singers.
Active in the 2000s, she undoubtedly ranks among the top three in musicality, even when you include famous vocalists and later R&B artists.
Her greatest strength is her songwriting.
Her compositions are so tasteful that they scarcely seem like typical Japanese R&B, earning strong support from dedicated fans.
“Call U Every Nite” is one of her standout tracks, notable for its smooth flow and classic R&B melodies.
Take It slowMeteor
Right now, Meteor is the most skilled R&B group in Japan.
To be honest, they’re not a major mainstream act, but their talent is top-tier.
Japan has plenty of R&B artists, but Meteor stands out with outstanding vocal ability and songwriting chops.
Among their catalog, the track I especially recommend is Take It Slow.
While much of their music is sung in English, what truly sets them apart is world-class composition—the melody is authentically crafted, on par with 1990s US R&B.
This is a must-listen for discerning, core fans who want real R&B—not just the recent R&B-inspired trends in Japan.