The 1990s was a decade that saw the rise of R&B as a genre, with an array of talented artists releasing classic hits that have become timeless favorites. R&B in the 1990s was characterized by a combination of smooth soulful vocals, grooving beats, and catchy melodies, making it a decade of unforgettable love songs, dance tracks, and powerful ballads. From Mary J. Blige to Whitney Houston, Boyz II Men to TLC, the era gave us some of the most iconic R&B tracks of all time. These songs captured the hearts and souls of music lovers around the world and continue to be celebrated today. In this list, we will explore the top 20 best R&B songs of the 1990s, each with its unique style, message, and lasting impact on the R&B genre. These songs showcase the diversity and depth of the R&B genre during this decade, highlighting the many ways that R&B artists captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with their infectious beats, soulful harmonies, and powerful lyrics. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the genre or simply looking to discover some new R&B classics, this list is sure to inspire and captivate.
1. Aaliyah, “Are You That Somebody?” (1998)
Aaliyah’s “Are You That Somebody?” is a groundbreaking R&B track that was released in 1998. The song features a unique blend of electronic, hip-hop, and soul influences, with its catchy beat and hypnotic melody driving the rhythm. Aaliyah’s smooth and sultry vocals bring an air of mystery and sensuality to the song, as she sings about the search for a lover who can keep up with her. The track is characterized by its innovative use of unusual samples, including the sounds of a crying baby, which add an eerie and haunting quality to the music. “Are You That Somebody?” remains a timeless classic of the 90s R&B genre and a testament to Aaliyah’s talent as an artist.
2. Mary J. Blige, “Be Happy” (1994)
Mary J. Blige’s “Be Happy” is a soulful R&B ballad released in 1994 that quickly became a hit. The song has a catchy melody and a laid-back beat that perfectly complements Blige’s rich and powerful vocals. The lyrics of “Be Happy” are uplifting and encouraging, offering a message of hope and positivity to anyone going through a tough time. Blige sings about the importance of finding happiness within oneself and not relying on external factors to bring joy. The song is a testament to Blige’s incredible talent as a vocalist and songwriter and remains a beloved classic in the R&B genre.
3. D’Angelo, “Brown Sugar” (1995)
D’Angelo’s “Brown Sugar” is a smooth and soulful R&B track that was released in 1995. The song is characterized by its mellow, laid-back groove, which features a catchy bass line and jazzy guitar riffs. D’Angelo’s silky, seductive vocals bring an air of sensuality and romance to the track, as he sings about his love for a woman and compares her to the sweetness of brown sugar. The song’s lyrics are filled with references to classic soul music, and the overall vibe is a throwback to the smooth, sophisticated R&B of the 70s. “Brown Sugar” is a timeless classic in the R&B genre and a testament to D’Angelo’s skill as a songwriter and performer.
4. En Vogue, “Hold On” (1990)
En Vogue’s “Hold On” is an upbeat and empowering R&B track that was released in 1990. The song’s funky bassline and lively percussion create a joyful and infectious rhythm that will make you want to dance. The vocal harmonies of the all-female group are a standout feature, blending together in perfect unison and showcasing the group’s incredible talent. The lyrics of “Hold On” are a message of hope and perseverance, encouraging listeners to stay strong and hold on through difficult times. The song is a testament to En Vogue’s unique and influential style, and remains a beloved classic of the 90s R&B era.
5. TLC, “No Scrubs” (1999)
TLC’s “No Scrubs” is a catchy and sassy R&B track released in 1999. The song features a lively and upbeat tempo with a groovy bassline and sharp percussion, creating a fun and energetic vibe that will make you want to dance. The vocals of TLC’s three members blend seamlessly together, with T-Boz taking the lead and Chilli and Left Eye providing strong harmonies. The lyrics of “No Scrubs” are a playful and witty rejection of men who lack ambition and self-respect, with TLC setting high standards for themselves and their lovers. The song’s confident and assertive message remains a classic anthem of female empowerment and self-respect.
6. Janet Jackson, “That’s the Way Love Goes” (1993)
Janet Jackson’s “That’s the Way Love Goes” is a smooth and sultry R&B track released in 1993. The song features a relaxed and sensual groove, with a slow and steady beat and jazzy guitar riffs. Jackson’s silky and seductive vocals bring an air of intimacy and romance to the song, as she sings about the pleasures and complexities of love. The lyrics are a mix of poetry and conversation, offering an honest and introspective exploration of the ups and downs of romantic relationships. “That’s the Way Love Goes” is a timeless classic in the R&B genre and a testament to Janet Jackson’s talent as an artist.
7. Lauryn Hill, “Ex-Factor” (1998)
Lauryn Hill’s “Ex-Factor” is a heartfelt and introspective R&B ballad released in 1998. The song features a melancholy and soulful melody, with gentle piano chords and a subtle beat that perfectly complements Hill’s emotive and powerful vocals. The lyrics of “Ex-Factor” are a raw and honest exploration of the pain and heartbreak that can come from a failed relationship, with Hill’s poetic verses offering a unique and nuanced perspective on love and loss. The song remains a timeless classic in the R&B genre, showcasing Hill’s incredible talent as a songwriter, singer, and storyteller.
8. Bell Biv DeVoe, “Poison” (1990)
Bell Biv DeVoe’s “Poison” is an infectious and funky R&B track released in 1990. The song features a lively and upbeat rhythm, with a catchy bassline, funky guitar riffs, and a driving beat that will make you want to dance. The group’s harmonies and lead vocals are confident and charismatic, with witty and humorous lyrics that celebrate the joys of romantic attraction. “Poison” is characterized by its blend of classic R&B and hip-hop elements, with the song’s production incorporating samples and drum breaks from classic funk and soul records. The song remains a beloved classic in the R&B genre and a testament to Bell Biv DeVoe’s unique and influential style.
9. Erykah Badu, “On & On” (1996)
Erykah Badu’s “On & On” is a smooth and soulful neo-soul track released in 1996. The song’s laid-back and jazzy groove, complete with a relaxed drumbeat and funky bassline, provides the perfect backdrop for Badu’s velvety and seductive vocals. The lyrics of “On & On” are introspective and philosophical, with Badu exploring the complex themes of life, love, and spirituality through a series of clever and witty rhymes. The song was a breakout hit for Badu and a landmark in the neo-soul genre, fusing together elements of classic R&B, hip-hop, and jazz to create a sound that was both innovative and timeless.
10. Jodeci, “Forever My Lady” (1991)
Jodeci’s “Forever My Lady” is a classic R&B ballad released in 1991. The song features a slow and romantic tempo, with smooth and sultry vocals that convey the group’s passion and devotion. The lush and dreamy production, complete with atmospheric synths and gentle percussion, creates a luxurious and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a slow dance with a loved one. The lyrics of “Forever My Lady” are a tender and heartfelt expression of love and commitment, as the group pledges their eternal devotion to their significant other. The song remains a beloved classic of the R&B genre and a testament to Jodeci’s talent as artists and performers.
11. Ginuwine, “Pony” (1996)
Ginuwine’s “Pony” is a steamy and seductive R&B track released in 1996. The song’s driving and sensuous beat, complete with sultry synths and a pulsing bassline, creates an atmosphere of intensity and passion. Ginuwine’s smooth and sultry vocals are a perfect match for the song’s provocative lyrics, which offer a frank and explicit exploration of sexual desire and pleasure. “Pony” is characterized by its raw and unapologetic approach to sexuality, making it a groundbreaking and influential track in the R&B genre. The song remains a classic of the genre, with its infectious groove and bold lyrics continuing to captivate audiences more than two decades after its release.
12. Blackstreet, “No Diggity” (1996)
Blackstreet’s “No Diggity” is an iconic R&B and hip-hop track released in 1996. The song’s catchy and funky groove, complete with a sample from Bill Withers’ “Grandma’s Hands,” creates an instantly recognizable and infectious rhythm that has become a staple of 90s music. The group’s smooth and confident vocals, as well as the rap verses from Dr. Dre, are delivered with a swagger and attitude that perfectly capture the song’s cool and seductive vibe. “No Diggity” is a timeless classic of the R&B and hip-hop genres, showcasing Blackstreet’s incredible talent and influence as pioneers of the new jack swing sound.
13. Mariah Carey, “Fantasy” (1995)
Mariah Carey’s “Fantasy” is a classic R&B and pop track released in 1995. The song features a lively and upbeat melody, complete with a sample from Tom Tom Club’s “Genius of Love,” that creates an instantly recognizable and infectious groove. Carey’s signature vocals, including her powerful high notes and melismatic runs, are on full display throughout the song, as she sings about a romantic fantasy that she’s been longing to fulfill. “Fantasy” is characterized by its irresistible energy and joyful spirit, with the song’s production and Carey’s performance coming together to create a feel-good anthem that has become a staple of 90s music.
14. Brandy & Monica, “The Boy is Mine” (1998)
Brandy and Monica’s “The Boy is Mine” is a legendary R&B duet released in 1998. The song features a slow and sultry beat, complete with strings and piano, that sets the stage for the two vocal powerhouses to engage in a dramatic and emotional conversation. The lyrics tell the story of two women vying for the attention of the same man, with Brandy and Monica using their incredible vocal range and control to convey their hurt, anger, and determination to come out on top. “The Boy is Mine” is a testament to the incredible talent and artistry of both Brandy and Monica, as well as their ability to create a timeless and unforgettable hit.
15. Sade, “No Ordinary Love” (1992)
Sade’s “No Ordinary Love” is a hauntingly beautiful R&B ballad released in 1992. The song’s slow and ethereal melody, complete with atmospheric synths and a subtle beat, creates an atmosphere of intimacy and introspection. Sade’s sultry and soulful vocals are a perfect match for the song’s poignant lyrics, which explore the complicated emotions of love, loss, and longing. “No Ordinary Love” is characterized by its powerful and emotional delivery, with Sade’s performance and the song’s production coming together to create a deeply moving and unforgettable experience. The track remains a classic of the R&B genre, and a testament to Sade’s incredible talent and artistry.
16. R. Kelly, “Bump ‘N Grind” (1994)
R. Kelly’s “Bump ‘N Grind” is a classic R&B slow jam released in 1994. The song’s smooth and seductive beat, complete with a grooving bassline and guitar riffs, creates an atmosphere of sensuality and desire. Kelly’s soulful and expressive vocals, which range from a low croon to a soaring falsetto, are perfectly suited to the song’s suggestive lyrics, which explore the joys and pleasures of physical intimacy. “Bump ‘N Grind” is a timeless R&B hit, showcasing Kelly’s incredible talent as a singer and songwriter, and his ability to create music that is both sensual and romantic.
17. Boyz II Men, “End of the Road” (1992)
Boyz II Men’s “End of the Road” is a classic R&B ballad released in 1992. The song’s slow and emotive melody, complete with soaring strings and a heart-wrenching piano riff, creates an atmosphere of sadness and longing. The group’s harmonious and soulful vocals, which blend together seamlessly and effortlessly, are perfectly suited to the song’s poignant lyrics, which deal with the pain and heartbreak of a relationship coming to an end. “End of the Road” is a timeless R&B classic, showcasing Boyz II Men’s incredible talent as vocalists and their ability to create music that is both emotional and powerful.
18. Ghost Town DJ’s, “My Boo” (1996)
Ghost Town DJ’s “My Boo” is a classic R&B dance track released in 1996. The song’s upbeat and infectious groove, complete with a funky bassline and bouncing beat, creates an atmosphere of joy and celebration. The group’s smooth and soulful vocals, which blend together seamlessly and effortlessly, are perfectly suited to the song’s catchy and memorable lyrics, which explore the excitement and thrill of new love. “My Boo” is a timeless R&B hit, showcasing Ghost Town DJ’s talent for creating music that is both fun and uplifting, and their ability to create a song that has stood the test of time.
19. Brandy, “I Wanna Be Down” (1994)
Brandy’s “I Wanna Be Down” is a classic R&B track released in 1994. The song’s smooth and soulful melody, complete with a grooving bassline and a catchy beat, creates an atmosphere of playful and romantic energy. Brandy’s sultry and soulful vocals are perfectly suited to the song’s confident and assertive lyrics, which explore the desire to be with someone special. “I Wanna Be Down” is a timeless R&B hit, showcasing Brandy’s incredible talent as a singer and her ability to create music that is both fun and empowering. The track remains a classic of the R&B genre, and a testament to Brandy’s lasting influence on the music industry.
20. SWV, “Right Here (Human Nature)” (1992)
SWV’s “Right Here (Human Nature)” is a classic R&B track released in 1992. The song’s smooth and soulful melody, with a catchy beat and sultry vocals, creates an atmosphere of romantic energy. The group’s harmonious and soulful vocals are perfectly suited to the song’s confident and assertive lyrics, which explore the desire to be with someone special. The track is known for its interpolation of Michael Jackson’s “Human Nature,” which adds a layer of nostalgia and familiarity to the song. “Right Here (Human Nature)” is a timeless R&B hit, showcasing SWV’s talent for creating music that is both fresh and timeless, and their ability to fuse classic elements with a modern twist.
Simon Robinson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
