The 2010s was a decade of great change and innovation in the world of R&B music. With the rise of streaming services and social media, artists were able to reach wider audiences and connect with fans in new and exciting ways. From chart-topping hits to underground classics, the decade saw a plethora of amazing R&B songs that captured the hearts and minds of listeners around the world. In this article, we will take a look at the top 20 best R&B songs of the 2010s.
This list encompasses a diverse range of artists, from established legends to up-and-coming stars. It includes tracks that broke new ground and set trends in the industry, as well as songs that paid homage to the rich history of R&B music. From sultry slow jams to upbeat dance numbers, these songs showcase the depth and versatility of the genre. Whether you’re a longtime R&B fan or a newcomer to the scene, there is something on this list for everyone.
So, sit back, relax, and let’s take a trip down memory lane as we celebrate the best R&B songs of the past decade. From heart-wrenching ballads to club bangers, these songs have left an indelible mark on the genre and continue to inspire and entertain listeners to this day.
1. 10 SECONDS by Jazmine Sullivan
“10 Seconds” is a song by American R&B singer Jazmine Sullivan, released in 2015. The song is about a woman who has had enough of her partner’s lies and is ready to leave the relationship. The title “10 Seconds” refers to the short amount of time it takes for her to make the decision to leave.Overall, “10 Seconds” is a powerful and emotional song that showcases Jazmine Sullivan’s strong vocals and songwriting skills.
2.ALL I WANT IS YOU by Miguel Featuring J. Cole
“All I Want Is You” is a song by American singer Miguel, featuring rapper J. Cole. The song was released in 2010 as the lead single from Miguel’s debut album of the same name.
The song is a smooth R&B track with a laid-back beat and romantic lyrics about a man who is in love with a woman and wants to be with her,Overall, “All I Want Is You” is a romantic and catchy song that showcases Miguel’s smooth vocals and J. Cole’s skills as a rapper.
3.ASTON MARTIN MUSIC by Rick Ross Featuring Drake & Chrisette Michele
“Aston Martin Music” is a luxurious and smooth hip-hop track by Rick Ross, featuring Drake and Chrisette Michele. Released in 2010, the song is named after the high-end British car brand and features lush production and soulful vocals.
The song’s lyrics touch on themes of success, wealth, and romantic conquest. Rick Ross raps about his lavish lifestyle and his desire for a woman who can match his level of success, while Drake delivers a memorable verse about the perils of fame and the difficulties of maintaining relationships in the spotlight. Chrisette Michele’s soulful vocals provide a melodic hook that ties the song together and adds a touch of elegance to the track.
Overall, “Aston Martin Music” is a stylish and smooth hip-hop track that combines luxurious production with introspective lyrics, showcasing the talents of Rick Ross, Drake, and Chrisette Michele.
4.BEAT IT UP by Gucci Mane Featuring Trey Songz
“Beat It Up” is a sexually charged rap song by Gucci Mane featuring R&B singer Trey Songz. Released in 2010, the song is known for its explicit lyrics and seductive beat.
The song’s lyrics are centered around sexual themes, with Gucci Mane rapping about his prowess in the bedroom and Trey Songz delivering a melodic chorus that encourages his partner to “beat it up”. The track features a heavy, slow-moving beat that adds to the song’s sensual atmosphere.
Overall, “Beat It Up” is a provocative and explicit rap song that showcases Gucci Mane’s brash personality and Trey Songz’s smooth vocals. While the song’s lyrics may not be for everyone, the track’s sultry beat and catchy hook make it a popular choice for those looking for a sensual and seductive vibe.
5.BITTERSWEET by Fantasia
“Bittersweet” is a soulful and emotional R&B song by American singer Fantasia, released in 2010 as the lead single from her third studio album “Back to Me”. The song tells the story of a woman who is trying to move on from a toxic relationship, but finds herself struggling with conflicting emotions of love and pain.
The song’s lyrics are honest and raw, with Fantasia’s powerful vocals conveying the emotional weight of the song’s subject matter. The production is stripped back, allowing Fantasia’s voice to take center stage, while the haunting piano melody adds to the song’s melancholic tone.
Overall, “Bittersweet” is a moving and relatable song that showcases Fantasia’s impressive vocal range and emotional depth as an artist. The song’s universal themes of love and heartbreak have resonated with audiences, making it one of Fantasia’s most popular and beloved tracks.
6.BLACK AND YELLOW by Wiz Khalifa
“Black and Yellow” is a popular hip-hop song by Wiz Khalifa, released in 2010 as the lead single from his third studio album “Rolling Papers”. The song is an ode to Khalifa’s hometown of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and features the city’s official colors of black and yellow prominently in its lyrics.
The song’s infectious beat and catchy hook have made it a fan favorite, while Khalifa’s slick rhymes and clever wordplay have cemented the song’s place in hip-hop history. The track’s music video also features footage of Pittsburgh and its sports teams, further cementing the song’s status as an anthem for the city.
Overall, “Black and Yellow” is a fun and upbeat hip-hop track that showcases Wiz Khalifa’s skills as a rapper and his love for his hometown. The song’s popularity and cultural impact have made it a beloved classic in the hip-hop community.
7.BOTTOMS UP by Trey Songz Featuring Nicki Minaj
“Bottoms Up” is a high-energy club track by R&B singer Trey Songz, featuring rapper Nicki Minaj. The song was released in 2010 as the lead single from Songz’s fourth studio album “Passion, Pain & Pleasure”.
The song’s infectious beat and catchy chorus make it a popular choice for party playlists, while Songz’s smooth vocals and Minaj’s witty rhymes add to the song’s appeal. The track’s lyrics touch on themes of drinking and partying, making it a perfect choice for a night out.
Overall, “Bottoms Up” is a fun and energetic party track that showcases Trey Songz’s versatility as an artist and Nicki Minaj’s skills as a rapper. The song’s catchy hook and danceable beat have made it a hit with fans and a staple in clubs and parties.
8.CAN’T BE FRIENDS by Trey Songz
“Can’t Be Friends” is a soulful and emotional R&B ballad by Trey Songz, released in 2010 as the lead single from his fourth studio album “Passion, Pain & Pleasure”. The song tells the story of a couple who have broken up but are struggling to move on and be just friends.
The song’s lyrics are heartfelt and introspective, with Songz’s powerful vocals conveying the pain and longing of the song’s subject matter. The stripped-back production, featuring a simple piano melody and minimal percussion, adds to the song’s melancholic and emotional tone.
Overall, “Can’t Be Friends” is a touching and relatable R&B track that showcases Trey Songz’s vocal abilities and emotional depth as an artist. The song’s themes of heartbreak and the difficulties of moving on from a failed relationship have resonated with audiences, making it one of Songz’s most beloved and popular tracks.
9.CHAMPAGNE LIFE by Ne-Yo
“Champagne Life” is an upbeat and celebratory R&B song by Ne-Yo, released in 2010 as the lead single from his fourth studio album “Libra Scale”. The song’s lyrics celebrate living life to the fullest and indulging in the finer things, such as champagne, fancy cars, and expensive clothes.
The song’s catchy chorus and uplifting production, featuring a catchy synth hook and a pulsing beat, make it a popular choice for parties and celebrations. Ne-Yo’s smooth vocals add to the song’s infectious and joyful vibe, making it a feel-good anthem that encourages listeners to enjoy life to the fullest.
Overall, “Champagne Life” is a fun and celebratory R&B track that showcases Ne-Yo’s talent as a singer and songwriter. The song’s upbeat tempo and positive message have made it a fan favorite and a hit on the charts.
10.DEUCES by Chris Brown Featuring Tyga & Kevin McCall
“Deuces” is a hip-hop/R&B breakup anthem by Chris Brown, featuring rappers Tyga and Kevin McCall. The song was released in 2010 as a single from Brown’s mixtape “Fan of a Fan” and was later included on his fourth studio album “F.A.M.E.” The song’s lyrics deal with the aftermath of a breakup and moving on from a toxic relationship, with Brown expressing his desire to move on and leave his ex behind.
The song’s mellow beat and melancholic melody, combined with the three artists’ smooth flow and delivery, create a reflective and introspective mood. “Deuces” was a critical and commercial success, cementing Brown’s place as a force to be reckoned with in the R&B and hip-hop world.
11.DOWN ON ME by Jeremih Featuring 50 Cent
“Down on Me” is an R&B/hip-hop club banger by Jeremih, featuring rapper 50 Cent. The song was released in 2010 as the lead single from Jeremih’s second studio album “All About You”. The song’s lyrics are sensual and provocative, with Jeremih singing about his attraction to a woman and his desire for a physical connection.
The song’s catchy hook, infectious beat, and 50 Cent’s dynamic flow make it a popular choice for clubs and parties. The song’s upbeat tempo and raunchy lyrics make it an ode to physical desire and attraction, making it a fan favorite and a hit on the charts.
Overall, “Down on Me” is a fun and provocative R&B/hip-hop track that showcases Jeremih’s vocal abilities and 50 Cent’s rap skills. The song’s steamy lyrics and danceable beat have made it a popular choice for fans of both genres.
12.FALL FOR YOUR TYPE by Jamie Foxx Featuring Drake
“Fall for Your Type” is a soulful and introspective R&B ballad by Jamie Foxx, featuring rapper Drake. The song was released in 2010 as the second single from Foxx’s fourth studio album “Best Night of My Life”. The song’s lyrics deal with the pain and regret of falling in love with someone who is not good for you, with Foxx and Drake delivering emotionally charged verses that capture the song’s melancholic and introspective mood.
The song’s stripped-down production, featuring a simple piano melody and minimal percussion, adds to the song’s emotional and intimate tone. Overall, “Fall for Your Type” is a powerful and moving R&B ballad that showcases Jamie Foxx’s vocal abilities and Drake’s lyrical prowess, making it a fan favorite and a hit on the charts.
13.FANCY by Drake Featuring T.I. & Swizz Beatz
“Fancy” is an upbeat and energetic hip-hop track by Drake, featuring rappers T.I. and Swizz Beatz. The song was released in 2010 as a single from Drake’s debut studio album “Thank Me Later”. The song’s lyrics are confident and boastful, with Drake and T.I. rapping about their success and the lavish lifestyle that comes with it.
The song’s catchy and upbeat production, featuring a pulsing beat and a catchy synth hook, makes it a popular choice for clubs and parties. Drake’s smooth flow and T.I.’s dynamic delivery add to the song’s infectious and celebratory vibe, making it a fan favorite and a hit on the charts.
Overall, “Fancy” is a fun and upbeat hip-hop track that showcases Drake’s talent as a rapper and Swizz Beatz’s production skills. The song’s confident and celebratory lyrics have made it a popular choice for fans of the genre, and it remains a beloved classic in Drake’s discography.
14.FINDING MY WAY BACK by Jaheim
“Finding My Way Back” is a soulful and emotional R&B ballad by Jaheim. The song was released in 2010 as the lead single from Jaheim’s fifth studio album “Another Round”. The song’s lyrics are introspective and heart-wrenching, with Jaheim singing about his struggles with love and relationships and his desire to find his way back to a healthy and fulfilling life.
The song’s slow tempo and soaring melody, coupled with Jaheim’s powerful and emotive vocals, make it a moving and heartfelt ballad. Overall, “Finding My Way Back” is a beautiful and powerful song that showcases Jaheim’s vocal abilities and his talent for crafting emotionally resonant R&B music.
15.LAY IT DOWN by Lloyd
“Lay It Down” is a smooth and seductive R&B track by Lloyd. The song was released in 2010 as the lead single from Lloyd’s fourth studio album “King of Hearts”. The song’s lyrics are intimate and romantic, with Lloyd singing about his desire to make love to his partner and to give her everything she needs to feel pleasure.
The song’s sultry production, featuring a catchy beat and a groovy bassline, adds to the song’s sensual and seductive tone. Lloyd’s smooth vocals and effortless delivery make the song a fan favorite and a hit on the charts.
Overall, “Lay It Down” is a captivating and seductive R&B track that showcases Lloyd’s vocal abilities and his talent for crafting romantic and intimate music. The song’s sensuality and smooth production have made it a popular choice for fans of the genre, and it remains a beloved classic in Lloyd’s discography.
16.MOMENT 4 LIFE by Nicki Minaj Featuring Drake
“Moment 4 Life” is a powerful and uplifting hip-hop track by Nicki Minaj, featuring rapper Drake. The song was released in 2010 as the fourth single from Minaj’s debut studio album “Pink Friday”. The song’s lyrics are celebratory and empowering, with Minaj rapping about her success and the importance of living in the moment and making the most of life.
The song’s anthemic production, featuring a catchy beat and a soaring melody, adds to the song’s triumphant and energetic tone. Minaj’s dynamic flow and Drake’s melodic delivery make the song a fan favorite and a hit on the charts.
Overall, “Moment 4 Life” is a powerful and inspiring hip-hop track that showcases Nicki Minaj’s talent as a rapper and Drake’s skills as a collaborator. The song’s celebratory and empowering lyrics have made it a popular choice for fans of the genre, and it remains a beloved classic in Minaj’s discography.
17.NO HANDS by Waka Flocka Flame Featuring Roscoe Dash & Wale
“No Hands” is an upbeat and energetic hip-hop track by Waka Flocka Flame, featuring Roscoe Dash and Wale. The song was released in 2010 as the third single from Waka Flocka Flame’s debut studio album “Flockaveli”. The song’s lyrics are playful and sexual, with the three rappers boasting about their prowess in the bedroom and their ability to satisfy their partners.
The song’s bouncy and infectious production, featuring a catchy beat and a hypnotic synth melody, adds to the song’s party vibe. The rappers’ charismatic performances and catchy hooks make the song a fan favorite and a hit on the charts.
Overall, “No Hands” is a fun and catchy hip-hop track that showcases the rappers’ skills as entertainers and party-starters. The song’s playful and sexual lyrics have made it a popular choice for fans of the genre, and it remains a beloved classic in Waka Flocka Flame’s discography.
18.ONE IN A MILLION by Ne-Yo
“One in a Million” is a romantic and soulful R&B track by Ne-Yo. The song was released in 2010 as the second single from Ne-Yo’s fourth studio album “Libra Scale”. The song’s lyrics are poetic and heartfelt, with Ne-Yo singing about his love for his special someone and how she is the one in a million that he’s been waiting for.
The song’s smooth and atmospheric production, featuring a mellow beat and a dreamy synth melody, adds to the song’s romantic and ethereal tone. Ne-Yo’s silky vocals and passionate delivery make the song a fan favorite and a hit on the charts.
Overall, “One in a Million” is a beautiful and heartfelt R&B track that showcases Ne-Yo’s talent as a songwriter and performer. The song’s poetic and romantic lyrics have made it a popular choice for fans of the genre, and it remains a beloved classic in Ne-Yo’s discography.
19.WHAT’S MY NAME? by Rihanna Featuring Drake
“What’s My Name?” is a playful and catchy pop song by Rihanna, featuring rapper Drake. The song was released in 2010 as the lead single from Rihanna’s fifth studio album “Loud”. The song’s lyrics are flirtatious and romantic, with Rihanna singing about the excitement of meeting someone new and the anticipation of getting to know them better.
The song’s upbeat and infectious production, featuring a catchy beat and a Caribbean-inspired melody, adds to the song’s fun and flirty tone. Rihanna’s sassy vocals and Drake’s smooth delivery make the song a fan favorite and a hit on the charts.
Overall, “What’s My Name?” is a fun and catchy pop song that showcases Rihanna’s talent as a performer and Drake’s skills as a collaborator. The song’s playful and romantic lyrics have made it a popular choice for fans of the genre, and it remains a beloved classic in Rihanna’s discography.
20.RIGHT THRU ME by Nicki Minaj
“Right Thru Me” is a vulnerable and introspective R&B track by Nicki Minaj. The song was released in 2010 as the second single from her debut studio album “Pink Friday”. The song’s lyrics explore the complexities of a romantic relationship, with Minaj questioning her partner’s motives and their ability to see through her walls and understand her true self.
The song’s moody and atmospheric production, featuring a slow tempo and a haunting piano melody, adds to the song’s introspective and emotional tone. Minaj’s raw and honest vocals make the song a fan favorite and a hit on the charts.
Overall, “Right Thru Me” is a powerful and emotional R&B track that showcases Minaj’s talent as a songwriter and performer. The song’s introspective and vulnerable lyrics have made it a popular choice for fans of the genre, and it remains a standout track in Minaj’s discography.
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.
