A lot has happened in the music industry over the past decade. Notably, R&B music has continued to hold its mojo, and several albums in this genre have done incredibly well.
The 2010s had been pure bliss, and stepping into this decade, R&B music has showcased its resilience to the test of time, shouting its presence from the rooftops. We have pure bangers to reminisce about, and more are still coming! But what albums have got us indulging in such sonic R&B delights? This article looks into the top albums that have graced the space over the last ten years.
1. PARTYNEXTDOOR – “PX1” (2013)
With its decibels hailing from Canada, this debut studio album by PARTYNEXTDOOR showcases the nuanced nature of his signature blend of R&B, dancehall, and atmospheric production. “PX1” gained popularity for its soul-heightening sound and the artist’s atmospheric vibes.
2. D’Angelo and The Vanguard – “Black Messiah” (2014)
“Black Messiah” is a critically acclaimed album that marked the long-awaited return of the neo-soul pioneer. Known for its socially conscious themes, intricate instrumentation, and D’Angelo’s soulful vocals, the album received widespread praise, earning a Grammy for Best R&B Album.
3. Solange – “A Seat at the Table” (2016)
This album blends R&B, funk, and soul. The album’s depth of exploring black identity, empowerment, and resilience resonated with audiences during civil rights campaigns. It continues to inspire the black minority in their cause for social justice today.
4. Beyoncé – “Lemonade” (2016)
When life gives you lemons, make some lemonade. “Lemonade” is pretty visual that Beyoncé used to crusade for—and criticize—deeply personal themes of infidelity, race, and feminism. It’s a cultural phenomenon with more profound focus on what’s so wrong with society today.
5. SZA – “Ctrl” (2017)
SZA’s “Ctrl” is a breakthrough album that catapulted her into the mainstream—praised for its emotional portrayal of relationships. The album’s relatable themes and innovative sound contributed to its popularity and critical acclaim.
6. Mariah Carey – “Caution” (2018)
Mariah Carey’s has been the face of R&B since the 90s and her songs are worth reminiscing to. However, she hasn’t lost her mojo and continues to grace the space, showcased in her 2018 Caution Album—her fifteenth studio album! With a mix of sultry ballads and upbeat tracks, this album has tons of bangers for the soul.
7. Daniel Caesar – “Freudian” (2017)
“Freudian” by Daniel Caesar is a soulful and introspective album that explores love, faith, and relationship themes. We all need them, for the most part, and his album is only a breath of fresh air in a world where love, faith and enduring unions are much needed.
8. Ari Lennox – “Shea Butter Baby” (2019)
“Shea Butter Baby” is Ari Lennox’s debut studio album, praised for its soulful sound and Lennox’s evocative vocals. With its contemporary R&B and neo-soul influences, the album received massive reviews, and the title track featuring J. Cole gained notable popularity.
9. Samm Henshaw – “Untidy Soul” (2022)
Samm Henshaw recently showcased his British artist’s soulful voice and a fusion of R&B, gospel, and pop elements in this album. While it explores themes of love and self-discovery it touches on the complexities of human emotions.
Conclusion
R&B continues to grace the space, and it’s not downing tools soon. We’re all in for a treat, and we’ll continue enjoying every decibel from the most lyrical and gracious artists who continue to make this genre entirely merry.