R&B, otherwise known as rhythm and blues, first originated in the 1940s. The genre began in the African-American community, born out of influences from jazz, soul, swing, and gospel music. The genre really took mainstream music by storm in the 90s and early 2000s along with hip-hop, when even pop music was incorporating R&B.
It’s now one of the most popular music genres out there, and with iconic R&B classics from the 90s all the way to the massively popular artists of the streaming era, there’s plenty of songs to choose from when deciding the top 10 R&B songs of all time. That’s why we’ve mixed a little bit of both into our list.
If you’re an R&B fan, you’re in luck – some of these artists are touring the UK in 2025! Keep reading to find out our ranking of the best R&B songs and how you can get VIP tickets to unforgettable concerts right here at Seat Unique.
Buy R&B VIP ticketsBest R&B Songs in Order
No. 10: ‘No Guidance’ – Chris Brown ft. Drake
Chris Brown has become one of the most popular R&B artists of the streaming era, and a song featuring Drake was bound to become an instant hit. Surprisingly, the two had previously feuded over Rihanna, who both had dated in the past. However, they put aside their differences to finally collaborate in 2019.
The song is a smooth and midtempo love jam, produced by 40 who is incredibly influential in the music scene. It’s definitely a song made for the charts, and it was certainly successful, even going as far as to be nominated for Best R&B Song at the 62nd Grammy Awards.
No. 9: ‘Oops (Oh My)’ – Tweet ft. Missy Elliot
Released in 2002, ‘Oops (Oh My)’ came out at the height of R&B's popularity in the mainstream. Produced by Timbaland and featuring the queen of hip-hop Missy Elliot, it’s no wonder the song is just that good. The lyrics are empowering and sensual, with Tweet saying they helped her when she was feeling insecure about her skin colour.
The song also features a sample and interpolation of the song ‘Girl U Want’ by Devo. It really goes to show that every sog Timbaland touches turns to gold.
No. 8: ‘Pink + White’ – Frank Ocean
Frank Ocean is definitely one of the most popular R&B singers of the modern age, and his Blond album is full of back-to-back smooth, soulful tracks. ‘Pink + White’ is one of those songs, produced by Pharrell Williams and even featuring vocals from Queen Beyoncé herself.
The song is about the ups and downs of a relationship, when one moment things are at their peak and the next things are going downhill. Frank Ocean is at his best when he’s making songs about failed relationships with his soulful voice.
No. 7: ‘Redbone’ – Childish Gambino
‘Redbone’ has definitely been given its flowers over the years, and was an interesting change from Childish Gambino’s usual hip-hop and funk sound. ‘Redbone’ was nominated for Record of the Year at the Grammys in 2018, and eventually won Best Traditional R&B Performance.
Many people assumed Donald Glover pitched up his vocals for the song, but that was not the case. ‘Redbone’ showcases his range in a way we’d never heard it before, in a true, soulful slow jam. The song was also featured in the film Get Out’s opening scene.
No. 6: ‘Leave The Door Open’ – Silk Sonic
Silk Sonic is a project by Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak, resulting in one of the best R&B albums of recent years, An Evening With Silk Sonic. ‘Leave The Door Open’ is one of the excellent products of this collaboration, perfectly sensual and smooth, highlighting both artists’ vocals.
No. 5: ‘Family Affair’ – Mary J. Blige
‘Family Affair’ is perhaps Mary J. Blige’s most popular song, and it’s certainly hard to choose just one of hers to be the best R&B songs of all time. Produced by Dr Dre, the song has both Mary’s bluesy vocals and a party atmosphere for a funky mix of hip-hop and R&B.
If you love Mary J. Blige’s music, and R&B in general, she’ll be playing Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on 3rd July alongside none other than 50 Cent and Davido! You can grab VIP tickets now and treat yourself to premium seats or even a private suite.
Buy Mary J. Blige VIP ticketsNo. 4: ‘Bad Habit’ – Steve Lacy
Released on Steve Lacy’s 2022 album Gemini Rights, ‘Bad Habit’ went viral on platforms like Spotify and TikTok as fans were eager to hear more music from him after the success of his other popular R&B song, ‘Dark Red.’ It’s a little lo-fi and bedroom pop, giving it a summer vibe.
Perhaps the reason why it resonated with audiences, apart from its funky bassline and blend of indie and R&B, are the lyrics about shyness and missing out on an opportunity with a crush. It’s relatable, and the instrumentals add to the messy themes of the song.
No. 3: ‘Dangerously In Love 2’ – Beyoncé
‘Dangerously In Love 2’ was Beyoncé’s debut song as a soloist, yet it still stands as one of her best R&B tracks. It lets Beyoncé’s voice shine full force in all its soulful glory, with all the vulnerability and passion that comes with love obsession. Originally a Destiny’s Child track, Beyoncé switched up the instrumental and made it her own.
Beyoncé has performed this song on tour as recently as Renaissance, where ‘Dangerously In Love 2’ served as the opening number. In 2025, Queen Bey is heading back on the road again for the Cowboy Carter Tour, so grab your VIP tickets for her June Tottenham Hotspur Stadium performances on sale now.
Buy Beyoncé VIP ticketsNo. 2: ‘Love On The Brain’ – Rihanna
‘Love On The Brain’ is one of Rihanna’s most popular songs, and it also differs greatly from much of her discography. The song is 50s doo-wop inspired, mixing elements of soul and rock as well to make a truly unique track. Rihanna’s husky voice really suits the emotional tone, with her snarls and impressive belting.
The lyrics are about a toxic yet addictive relationship, a topic Rihanna is familiar with in her songs. Rihanna’s last album, ANTI, leaned more into her smooth, R&B vocals, and we hope she shows more of it when she finally releases her next album!
No. 1: ‘The Weekend’ – SZA
SZA is perhaps the absolute best in the game right now when it comes to R&B. Her vocals are smooth and melodic, her songwriting is unmatched, and her songs have a sensual, slow burn style. ‘The Weekend’ is the ultimate example, taking inspiration from 90s R&B with finger snaps, hi-hats, and synths.
Right now SZA is on tour with legendary rapper Kendrick Lamar, and we’re sure she’ll perform a mixture of their collabs and her own songs. The Grand National Tour will be coming to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London for three nights in July, so grab your VIP tickets now!
Buy SZA VIP ticketsGet R&B Tickets
If you want to see your favourite R&B artists live on stage, what better way to do it than in VIP style? At Seat Unique we provide official VIP and hospitality to the biggest events of the year through our safe and secure ticketing platform.
With VIP concert tickets you could treat yourself to exclusive hospitality lounge access, complimentary bars, pre-show gourmet meals, and the best seats in the house for unrivalled views of the stage.
Browse our available R&B VIP tickets now, including incredible artists like SZA, Mary J. Blige, Beyoncé, and more.
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