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Lovely R&B and soul

Today's R&B: A curated playlist packed with classic hits!

Today's R&B: A curated playlist packed with classic hits!
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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!

Today's R&B: Many classic hits! Curated playlist (1–10)

Don’t Beyouen kingyo

Bewitching Goldfish – Don’t Be [Official Music Video]
Don't Beyouen kingyo

A bewitching goldfish that uses hip-hop as its foundation to evoke the humidity and luster of the night.

Perhaps you’ve been looking for stylish R&B but haven’t quite found a track that resonates.

If so, we recommend this song they released in August 2025.

Over a minimal, slightly shadowy track, it delicately portrays complex emotions like missed connections and loneliness.

By repeating messages like “don’t be sad” and “don’t be angry,” it creates a distinctive, emotional rhythm.

Crafted by a powerhouse duo whose early signature track “BLACK” reached No.

1 on Spotify’s domestic Viral chart, this is a deep, city-night-appropriate piece.

Secret GardenBE:FIRST

BE:FIRST / Secret Garden -Music Video-
Secret GardenBE:FIRST

For a relaxing afternoon drive, a comfortable groove is essential, isn’t it? BE:FIRST’s track is perfect for that mood.

The song stands out with a sophisticated sound rooted in 2010s R&B.

At first glance it seems to be about romance, but it actually weaves in a deep love and respect for music itself as a metaphor.

Its romantic worldview likens what’s precious to a “secret garden,” leaving your heart full.

Released in August 2025, the piece was also featured as a campaign song for Unilever.

It is included on the album “Sora” and the best-of album “BE:ST.” A mellow number ideal for a calm night drive or for those personal moments of healing.

RUNWAYTENDRE

TENDRE – RUNWAY(Official Visualizer)
RUNWAYTENDRE

TENDRE, a multitalented artist who crafts refined sounds, delivers a track released in April 2025 that captures the refreshing spirit of spring’s arrival.

The lyrics celebrate the exhilaration of leaping into a new season, paired with a propulsive, forward-looking energy.

Combined with the easygoing groove that has been consistent since his debut EP “Red Focus,” the song makes you feel lighter as you listen.

Its selection as the cover of YouTube Music’s “R&B Japan” playlist speaks to the attention it’s receiving.

It’s the perfect BGM for an afternoon drive, windows down, feeling the breeze.

It’s sure to make your everyday just a little more special.

BodyMaliya

MALIYA – Body (Official Lyric Video)
BodyMaliya

Singer-songwriter MALIYA, based in Tokyo, has crafted a unique style rooted in ’90s R&B and soul, interweaving elements of jazz and contemporary future soul.

Having collaborated with many artists, including WONK and KANDYTOWN, she released her new single “Body” on March 8, 2024.

Arranged by TOMOKO IDA—the first Japanese female producer to be nominated for a Grammy—the track was unveiled to coincide with International Women’s Day.

With a strong message celebrating women’s independence and self-respect, the song showcases MALIYA’s beautiful voice in even greater brilliance.

shake your headHi-D

HI-D is an R&B singer known for his sophisticated songwriting.

He’s also active as a producer and has supported Japan’s R&B scene for many years.

His biggest charm is, without a doubt, his smooth ad-libs.

Like Craig David, he weaves accents into his flowing delivery, shaping them into beautifully pleasing melodies.

His track “shake your head” showcases these traits to the fullest.

If you love classic R&B, this is a must-listen.

BLACK DOLLЯu-a

Яu-a 『BLACK DOLL』 Music Video
BLACK DOLLЯu-a

A unique world that weaves together a sound fusing diverse genres—dance, hyperpop, and R&B—with a captivating voice that grips listeners.

Released in May 2025 by rising female artist Яu-a, this track perfectly balances refined track-making with a catchy melodic line.

Produced by Taydex, the song intertwines funky beats and a memorable hook in exquisite harmony, skillfully blending elements of Japan’s kawaii culture with Western pop.

The music video marks her return to on-screen appearances, overflowing with a pink, her signature color, as the core visual theme.

With its rhythmic sound and delicate emotional expression, this release is highly recommended for fans of contemporary pop music.

Take It BackReiko

REIKO ‘Take It Back (Prod. Sam is Ohm)’ Music Video
Take It BackReiko

REIKO’s new track features an irresistibly groovy beat that reimagines ’90s US R&B for today.

Riding on her supple yet powerful vocals, it delivers a message of freeing yourself from the expectations of society and those around you.

Released in April 2025 and produced by Sam is Ohm, this song marks the beginning of REIKO’s “R&B Trilogy” and stands as a pivotal first chapter.

It’s the kind of song that gently gives you a push when you want to boost your self-esteem.