The Year of R&B Music’s Soulful Rebirth and Viral Hits

In 2024, R&B has experienced a vibrant revival, with Black artists blending classic soul influences with contemporary sounds to captivate audiences worldwide. From viral sensations to award-winning tracks, the genre has showcased its versatility and enduring appeal. Here are some of the standout R&B songs that have defined the year:

Lucky Daye – Algorithm
Released on June 28, 2024, Lucky Daye’s third studio album, Algorithm, features the title track that blends smooth vocals with innovative production, earning critical acclaim and solidifying his status in contemporary R&B.

SZA – Saturn
Featured on her deluxe album Lana, SZA’s ‘Saturn’ blends her signature ethereal vocals with introspective lyrics, resonating deeply with fans and critics alike. The song reached No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100, showcasing SZA’s continued influence in the R&B scene.

Kehlani – After Hours
Marking her return to the music scene, Kehlani’s ‘After Hours’ is a dance-worthy track that samples the classic ‘Coolie Dance Riddim,’ bringing nostalgic vibes with a modern twist. The song has been nominated for Best R&B Song at the upcoming Grammy Awards.

Muni Long – Made for Me
From her project Revenge, Muni Long delivers soulful vocals and relatable lyrics, solidifying her status as a key figure in the R&B resurgence. The song achieved significant chart success, reflecting Long’s growing influence in the genre.

Tyla – Water
South African singer Tyla’s breakout hit ‘Water’ has garnered international acclaim, earning gold and platinum distinctions. Her unique blend of Afropop and R&B elements has made this track a global favorite.

FLO – Cardboard Box
British R&B trio FLO’s debut single ‘Cardboard Box’ showcases rich harmonies and a modern twist on classic girl group sounds, earning them critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.

Victoria Monét – On My Mama
A standout track from her album Jaguar II, Monét delivers smooth vocals and empowering lyrics, earning her a spot in the Billboard Hot 100 and further establishing her as a force in the R&B genre.

4Batz featuring Drake – Act II: Date @ 8 (Remix)
Dallas R&B singer 4Batz collaborates with Drake on this remix, which has quickly ascended the Billboard music charts to the prime No. 7 spot. The track’s smooth blend of R&B and hip-hop elements has resonated with listeners.

Jordan Adetunji featuring Kehlani – Kehlani (Remix)
Hip-hop artist Jordan Adetunji teams up with singer Kehlani in a remixed version of the viral song ‘Kehlani.’ The dance-ready remix features a prominent drill beat over R&B vocals, showcasing the genre’s versatility.

These tracks highlight the diversity and dynamism of R&B in 2024, reflecting the genre’s rich history while pushing its boundaries into new and exciting territories.