Your Favorite R&B Hits from the 2010s from the Last 6 Months
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Last updated on Oct 4,2024, updated monthly. |
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 1 . Asap Rocky - EverydayMixing rap, rock, and soul, "Everyday" by A$AP Rocky, released in 2015, samples "In a Broken Dream" by Python Lee Jackson featuring Rod Stewart. The track also features contributions from Miguel and producer Mark Ronson, known for his work with Amy Winehouse and Bruno Mars. The music video is directed by Emmanuel Cossu and Fleur & Manu. Writer(s) : Asap Rocky, David Keith Bentley, Frans Chaim Mernick, Mark D Ronson Publisher(s) : Asap Rocky Publishing Llc, Concord Sounds, Sony Atv Songs Llc, Songs Of Zelig Featured on the 2015 album At. Long. Last. ASAP
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 3 . Summer Walker - Playing GamesInterpolating Destiny's Child's "Say My Name," and featuring Bryson Tiller, Summer Walker's "Playing Games" portrays her journey through love's complexities, heartache, and revenge. Set against a city lights backdrop in surreal settings, the music video, directed by Christine Yuan, delves into the theme of emotional and somewhat sado-masochistic games in relationships and that involves ignoring an apologetic man bearing flowers or throwing a knife at another. The music video is directed by Christine Yuan. Writer(s) : Bryson Tiller, London Tyler Holmes, Rodney Roy Jerkins, Freddie D Jerkins Iii, Lashawn Ameen Daniels, Summer Marjani Walker, Beyonce Knowles, Kelendria Trené Rowland, Kendall Roark Bailey, Letoya Nicole Luckett, Cameron Griffin, Latavia Marie Roberson, Aubrey Robinson Publisher(s) : Latavia Music Publishing, Sundaemorningllc, W B Music Corp, Unknown Publisher, Lvrn Publishing Featured on the 2019 album Over It
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 5 . Tory Lanez - Jerry SprungerPossibly a play on the name of famous talk show host Jerry Springer, "Jerry Sprunger" by Tory Lanez, released in 2019, pays homage to T-Pain's classic "I'm Sprung." The track, featuring T-Pain himself, blends nostalgic 2000s elements with modern production. The music video is directed by Mid Jordan, Tory Lanez. Writer(s) : Faheem Najm, Daniel Gonzalez, Daystar Peterson, Anthony Too Jr Woart Publisher(s) : Universal Music Z Songs, Songs Of Universal Inc, Prodbyplay Llc Featured on the 2019 album Chixtape 5
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 6 . Kehlani - Nights Like ThisReleased in 2019, "Nights Like This" by Kehlani, known for her contemporary R&B style, deals with themes of betrayal and complex post-breakup emotions. Ty Dolla $ign adds a male perspective to Kehlani's narrative with his verse. The music video is directed by Bo Mirhosseni. Writer(s) : Kehlani Ashley Parrish, Brandon John Hollemon, Tyrone William Griffin, Elliott Trent Bingham, Danny Schofield, Bradley Thomas, Nolan Lambroza Publisher(s) : Ell Trent Publishing, Sal And Co Lp, Ctm Publishing Bv, Up10M S Publishing, Wc Music Corp, These Are Songs Of Pulse, Universal Music Corporation, Kehlani Music, Mean Stringz Publishing, These Are Pulse Songs, Warner Tamerlane Publishing Co Featured on the 2019 album While We Wait
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 8 . Summer Walker - Girls Need LoveSummer Walker's "Girls Need Love" boldly flips the script on traditional R&B narratives, as she candidly expresses the emotional and physical needs of women. With its stripped-down production and soul-infused melodies, the song emphasizes Walker's soft yet powerful vocal delivery. The remix, featuring Drake, catapulted the track to greater heights, further solidifying its status as a modern-day anthem of female empowerment. The music video is directed by Lacey Duke. Writer(s) : Summer Marjani Walker, Arsenio Archer Publisher(s) : Lvrn Publishing, Wc Music Corp, Sony Atv Songs Llc Featured on the 2010 album Last Day of Summer
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 9 . Usher - MoreUsher's "More" is a pulsating call to ambition, set to a dancefloor-ready beat crafted by RedOne. The song's driving rhythm and motivational lyrics encourage listeners to push beyond their limits, striving for greatness without compromise. Perfectly designed for the energetic backdrop of sports arenas and dance clubs alike, "More" became a platinum-selling hit, reinforcing Usher's place as a dominant force in the world of R&B. The music video is directed by Damien Wasylki. Writer(s) : Redone, Usher Raymond, Charles B Jr Hinshaw, Bilal Hajji Publisher(s) : Emi April Music Inc, Songs Of Redone, Almo Music Corporation, Ur Iv, Ole 2101 Songs, Sony Atv Songs Llc Featured on the 2010 album Raymond v. Raymond
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 10 . Jazmine Sullivan - Bust Your WindowsJazmine Sullivan's "Bust Your Windows" channels raw emotion into a tale of heartbreak and revenge, set to a backdrop of tango-infused R&B. The song's narrative of a woman taking matters into her own hands after discovering her lover's infidelity is both empowering and cautionary, reflecting on the consequences of such actions. With its dramatic string arrangements and Sullivan's powerful vocals, "Bust Your Windows" became a defining moment in contemporary R&B, earning critical acclaim and a Grammy nomination. Writer(s) : Deandre Way, Jazmine Sullivan Publisher(s) : Tunes By Nickelodeon Inc, Music By Nickelodeon Inc Featured on the 2008 album Fearless
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 11 . Chris Brown - Back To SleepChris Brown's "Back to Sleep" oozes sensuality with its smooth R&B groove, drawing comparisons to Marvin Gaye's classic slow jams. The song, with its suggestive lyrics, captures the intimate moments shared between lovers, blending modern R&B with nostalgic influences. Accompanied by a series of remixes featuring artists like Usher and Zayn Malik, "Back to Sleep" became a multifaceted exploration of romance and desire, cementing its place in contemporary R&B. The music video is directed by Chris Brown. Writer(s) : Allen Ritter, Christopher Maurice Brown, Matthew Samuels, Anderson Hernandez, Mark Kevin Pitts, Dan August Rigo Publisher(s) : Sony Atv Tunes Llc, Songs Of Universal Inc, Culture Beyond Ur Experience Publishing, Sony Atv Songs Llc, Vinylz Music Group, 1Damentional Publishing Llc, Songs By Summerchild, Ritter Boyfalse Featured on the 2014 album Royalty
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 12 . Miguel - AdornMiguel unveils an artsy, dream-inspired video for his song 'Adorn.' The video features surreal visuals like ladies in mesh masks, water leaking from suitcases, and underwater singing. The lyrics, inspired by his girlfriend Nazanin Mandi, delve into the depth of love and still have a raw, unfinished feel. The music video is directed by Jason Beattie. Writer(s) : Miguel Pimentel Publisher(s) : Universal Music Corporation, Art Dealer Chic Featured on the 2012 album Kaleidoscope Dream
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 13 . Keri Hilson - I LikeKeri Hilson's "I Like" delivers a pop-infused dance anthem that became a massive hit in Europe, particularly in Germany. Originally recorded for the soundtrack of the film Zweiohrküken, the song captures the thrill of romantic connection and the excitement of a night out. The accompanying music video interweaves scenes of Hilson's vibrant performance with clips from the film, enhancing the song's playful and flirtatious energy. The music video is directed by Aaron Platt. Writer(s) : David Jost, Robin Grubert Publisher(s) : David Jost Songs Edition, Universal Music Publishing International Ltd, Universal Music Publishing Gmbh| Featured on the 2010 album No Boys Allowed
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 14 . Gesaffelstein - Lost In The FireGesaffelstein and The Weeknd's "Lost In The Fire" delves into the darker corners of desire and complex relationships, set against a backdrop of brooding electronic beats. The track intertwines The Weeknd's haunting vocals with Gesaffelstein's signature minimalist production, creating an atmosphere charged with tension. The lyrics, touching on themes of infidelity and unfulfilled desires, sparked controversy, adding another layer of complexity to this already intense collaboration. The music video is directed by Manu Coss. Writer(s) : Jason Quenneville, Gesaffelstein, Ahmad Balshe, Nathan Patrick Donmoyer, The Weeknd Publisher(s) : Get Got Music, Universal Music Works, Sal And Co Lp, Hifi Music Ip Issuer L.P., Emi Music Publ France, Universal Music Corporation, W B Music Corp, Bota Music Publishing, Savoir Faire, Xo Music Publishing Llcfalse Featured on the 2019 album Hyperion
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 15 . Jorja Smith - Blue LightsIn "Blue Lights," Jorja Smith tackles the harsh realities of police profiling and racial tension, framed by a haunting blend of R&B, grime, and soul. The song's lyrics, inspired by a school project on post-colonialism, offer a vivid portrayal of the fear and anxiety faced by young black men when confronted by police. With its minimalistic production and Smith's emotive vocal performance, "Blue Lights" stands as a powerful commentary on social justice, resonating deeply in a world grappling with issues of race and authority. The music video is directed by Olivia Rose. Writer(s) : Nicholas Detnon, Jorja Smith, Ben Joyce, Dylan Mills, Roland Romanelli, Guy Bonnet Publisher(s) : Emi Songs France, Warner Chappell Music Ltd, Sony/Atv Music Publishing Allegro (Uk), Notting Hill Music Ltd (Uk), Hero Music Ltd (Gb 1), Johnny William Son Featured on the 2016 album Lost & Found
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 16 . Ne-Yo - Never Knew I NeededNe-Yo's "Never Knew I Needed," crafted for Disney's The Princess and the Frog, is a tender R&B ballad that celebrates the unexpected discovery of love. The song's soulful melody, enriched by jazz influences, reflects the New Orleans setting of the film, while its lyrics convey the profound realization of finding someone who completes you in ways you never anticipated. The music video, set against the vibrant backdrop of the city, visually ties the song to the film, creating a harmonious blend of music and cinema. The music video is directed by Melina Matsoukas. Writer(s) : Ne-Yo Publisher(s) : Walt Disney Music Company Featured on the 2009 album The Princess and the Frog (soundtrack)
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 17 . Khalid - BetterKhalid's "Better" combines a smooth R&B vibe with a mid-tempo beat that evokes '90s Miami bass, showcasing his effortless vocal delivery. In the accompanying music video, Khalid performs against the gritty backdrop of downtown L.A., surrounded by vintage BMWs in a visual that echoes the laid-back yet vibrant energy of the song. The track captures the essence of feeling content and secure in the presence of someone special, making it a standout in Khalid's discography. The music video is directed by Andrew Donoho. Writer(s) : Tor Erik Hermansen, Khalid Robinson, Ryan Vojtesak, Jamil Chammas, Mikkel Eriksen Publisher(s) : Songs Of Universal Inc, Emi Music Publishing Ltd, Cuts Of Reach Mc, W B Music Corp, Sony Atv Songs Llc, Jamil Chammas Publishing Featured on the 2018 album Suncity
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 18 . Chris Brown - DeucesAn anthem of post-breakup empowerment, "Deuces" by Chris Brown, featuring Tyga and Kevin McCall, released in 2010, tops the charts and becomes Brown's first number one single since "Say Goodbye." Produced by Kevin McCall and DJ Frank E. The music video is directed by Colin Tilley. Writer(s) : Kevin Lyle Mccall, Christopher Maurice Brown, Michael Stevenson Publisher(s) : Songs Of Universal Inc, Emi Blackwood Music Inc, Culture Beyond Ur Experience Publishing, Tygaman Music Featured on the 2010 album Fan of a Fan
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 19 . Bryson Tiller - Don'TBryson Tiller's "Don't" is a quintessential example of trap soul, blending smooth R&B melodies with the gritty beats of trap. The song, a plea to a woman in a troubled relationship, showcases Tiller's ability to merge singing and rapping into a seamless narrative. With its minimal production and introspective lyrics, "Don't" became an underground hit on SoundCloud before catapulting Tiller into mainstream success. The track's raw emotion and relatable themes of love and heartbreak struck a chord with listeners, solidifying its place as a modern R&B staple. The music video is directed by Cris. Writer(s) : Bryan Michael Paul Cox, Tavoris Javon Hollins, Jermaine Dupri, Mariah Carey, Bryson Tiller, Johnta Austin, Stuart Lowery Publisher(s) : Kmr Music Royalties Ii Scsp, Sony Atv Ballad, Sony Atv Songs Llc, Escc 2 Publishing Featured on the 2015 album T R A P S O U L
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 20 . Beyoncé - Before I Let GoBeyoncé's rendition of "Before I Let Go" reimagines the 1981 Maze featuring Frankie Beverly classic, infusing it with the vibrant rhythms of New Orleans bounce music. Layering a DJ Jubilee sample and weaving in an interpolation of Cameo's "Candy," the track pulses with energetic beats while staying rooted in its soulful origins. Featured during the credits of her *Homecoming* documentary, which chronicles her iconic 2018 Coachella performance, Beyoncé's version transforms the song into a celebration of joy and nostalgia, merging past and present. Writer(s) : Lawrence Ernest Black, Thomas Michael Jenkins, Frankie Beverly Publisher(s) : Amazement Music Featured on the 2019 album HOMECOMING: THE LIVE ALBUM
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ABOUT 2010s R&B2010s R&B: The SoundThe R&B of the 2010s is marked by a seamless blend of sonorities and a diversification of influences, drawing from pop, hip-hop, and even electronic music. This fusion allowed the genre to stay relevant and resonate with a broader audience. Production in this era is characterized by the heavy use of electronics, synthesizers, and auto-tune, while maintaining bass lines and rhythms that harken back to R&B’s origins. 2010s R&B: The WordsThe themes in 2010s R&B remained loyal to the genre’s traditional focus on love, relationships, and personal emotions. However, this decade also saw a rise in songs delving into introspection, identity, and personal experiences, often framed in darker or more melancholic settings. Some artists began moving away from conventional formulas, exploring new ways to express human emotions and experiences. This shift reflects a maturation of the genre, which continuously seeks renewal while staying true to its roots. Frank Ocean, one of the most influential R&B artists of the 2010s, epitomizes the deep introspection that defines the decade. In his song “Nights” (2016), Ocean explores themes of duality and personal transition, navigating between different life phases: Did you call me from a seance? The Weeknd, another cornerstone of contemporary R&B, introduces darker, introspective themes to the genre, exploring toxic relationships and struggles with addiction. His track “The Hills” (2015) is a striking example of this trend: When I’m faded, I forget I only call you when it’s half-past five In her song “Supermodel,” SZA from her album Ctrl (2017), tackles issues of insecurity and the search for validation, laying bare her vulnerabilities with unflinching honesty and showcasing a confrontation with raw emotions and complex situations: Let me tell you a secret I’m writing this letter to let you know Beyoncé, an iconic figure in R&B, also uses her platform to address broader social issues. In “Pretty Hurts” (2013), she critiques the societal pressures that push women to conform to unrealistic beauty standards: Perfection is a disease of a nation Pretty hurts The track shifts away from traditional romantic themes to focus on a broader critique of social expectations, demonstrating how R&B can serve as a vehicle for messages of resistance and awareness. 2010s R&B: Major LabelsThe following ten labels produced most of 2010s R&B: – Def Jam Recordings 2010s R&B: Fashion Endorsers & EndorseesThe intertwining of fashion and R&B in the 2010s is exemplified by artists whose visual identities become as integral to their brands as their music. The Weeknd frequently sports attire from Supreme: a brand synonymous with streetwear culture and the contemporary R&B scene. Supreme‘s signature style aligns seamlessly with The Weeknd’s often dark and minimalist aesthetic. Beyoncé is seen wearing Off-White on numerous occasions, particularly during performances and in her music videos. Off-White, founded by Virgil Abloh, is celebrated for its avant-garde designs and collaborations with influential artists. The brand complements Beyoncé’s sophisticated, innovative image, reflecting a blend of high fashion and urban culture. Additionally, Beyoncé collaborates with Balmain for her historic Coachella performance in 2018. Olivier Rousteing, Balmain‘s artistic director, designs custom outfits for the event. This collaboration highlights how haute couture and R&B can intersect on stage, making it a landmark moment in both fashion and music. Rihanna partners with Puma in 2014, becoming the creative director of their women’s line. She launchs the Fenty x Puma collection, which successfully fuses streetwear elements with a high-fashion twist. Drake collaborates with Nike to launch the NOCTA brand, a collection blending streetwear with performance wear. While Drake is predominantly known for his impact on hip-hop, his contributions to R&B and his fashion sense made NOCTA a highly anticipated line in urban culture. Alicia Keys collaborates with Reebok to release her own shoe line in 2012. The collection reflects her unique style, blending urban influences with elegance. Further Reading and ViewingHere are some media outlets and specialized websites with archives rich in information and reviews related to the 2010s R&B genre: – Complex: A media outlet that extensively covers urban culture, including R&B. For more in-depth knowledge, here are several documentaries dedicated to artists associated with the 2010s R&B genre: “The Defiant Ones”: A documentary on Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine, who played pivotal roles in the R&B genre through their work in the music industry. “Rapture”: A Netflix documentary series that explores hip-hop and R&B culture, with episodes focusing on influential artists. “Homecoming: A Film by Beyoncé”: This Netflix documentary covers Beyoncé’s preparation for her Coachella performance, a key moment for 2010s R&B. |
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