Rhythm and Blues (R&B) is a classic genre of music that has evolved over the years. When R&B started it was influenced by a combination of blues, soul, and gospel music. Between the 1990s and the 2000s, R&B was a very popular genre.

More recently R&B has become an underrated genre even though it used to rule the music scene. The decline of old school R&B listeners can be seen among teenagers today. To remind others of R&B throwbacks, this playlist consists of some classic beats.

“Didn’t Cha Know” – Erykah Badu

Erykah Badu’s album, “Mama’s Gun,” was released in 2000, featuring a song called “Didn’t Cha Know.” She is a successful R&B and hip-hop artist, and has been recognized for her distinct vocals, music, as well as a strong queenly persona. Badu has been one of the most influential artists since she started her music career in the late 90’s.

“Guess Who Loves You More” – Raheem DeVaughn

Raheem DeVaughn displays the romantic side of R&B, singing about love, as many R&B musicians did. One of DeVaughn’s songs, “Guess Who Loves You More,” includes a blues type of sound and displays a range of vocals. This song came out in 2005 with his album “The Love Experience.”

“Hey U” – Groove Theory

Groove Theory’s only album, “Groove Theory,” was released in 1995. Their song, “Hey U,” incorporates a ballad style, which is a calm hip-hop beat with lush vocals.

“Come Over” & “Spend the Night” – Rahsaan Patterson

After singing backup for R&B singers like Martika and Brandy, Rahsaan Patterson started his own solo career in 1996. He released his first album, “Rahsaan Patterson,” in 1997

“You Used to Love Me” – Faith Evans

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4l1Kw6KNgPw

Faith Evans’ song “You Used to Love Me” was released in 1995. The song has a smooth groove and gospel sound. Most of her music contains hip-hop beats, which were influenced by her late husband, Biggie.

“I Can Love You” – Mary J. Blige

Mary Blige’s song “I Can Love You,” featuring Lil’ Kim, displays silvery vocals and soft beats. Her album, “Share My World,” was released in 1997.

“So Badd” & “This Song Is for You” – Zhané

Zhané’s album, “Saturday Night,” was released in 1997, and featured the two songs “So Badd,” and “This Song Is For You.” “So Badd,” is heavy on the piano and bass with syncopated vocals, while “This Song Is For You,” has a harmonic acapella intro that winds into groovy rhythms.

“Hard to Say Goodbye” – Xscape

Xscape’s song “Hard to Say Goodbye,” with its melancholy intro, shows off the four-women group’s vocal ranges and their gorgeous harmony. Their album, “Off the Hook,” was released in 1995.

“Halfcrazy” – Musiq Soulchild

Musiq Soulchild samples Francis Lai’s song, “Vivre Pour Vivre,” as a backdrop throughout his own song, “Halfcrazy.” This song shimmers with spanish guitar and neo-soul sounds. His album, “Juslisen,” was released in 2002.

“Sweet Thing” – Chaka Khan

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8HviH6K9SHk

Chaka Khan’s song, “Sweet Thing,” was released in 1982. In this song, she showcases her vocal range and stays true to the original R&B sound. This song is a must for any R&B listener.