Set the mood with these top slow jams.
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Lyrical messages of love come in all forms and span genres. From hip hop to rock, love is a central theme in countless albums and songs — but there’s something special about rhythm and blues. Better known as R&B, this category digs deep into the soul, captivating fans with remarkable cadence, delivery and smooth tempos that enable audiences to feel musicians’ innermost emotions.
Simply put, when it comes to matters of the heart, this genre reigns supreme. Whether an artist is gushing about a new romance or declaring their commitment, R&B love songs have the ability to sonically delight listeners in an intimate, relatable way. Not only do love-centric tracks tell a story from an artist’s perspective, but they can also speak for those who may not have the touching words or moving melodies to express their thoughts. Play one of these singles for a significant other and feelings are instantly known.
Tender lyrics, authenticity and soul-stirring vocals are all hallmarks of a good R&B love song. While there are too many to list, we did our best to include selects that surely deserve a spot on your playlist.
Starting a family with your significant other often signals a new chapter in love’s book. R&B quartet Jodeci beautifully honors that milestone on this timeless ‘90s track.
Love can be imperfect. Boyz II Men harmoniously pleads for forgiveness and a second chance on this sincere single. With those voices, we’re pretty sure they didn’t beg for long.
A wedding staple, this Stevie Wonder hit describes finding unconditional love that’s as special and bright as a breathtaking rainbow.
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Butterflies in your stomach have nothing on buckling knees. As R&B trio SWV eloquently express in this early ‘90s song, losing control of your body is a testament to serious infatuation.
Reportedly, it only took the writers a few hours to pen this incredibly touching single. Beyoncé’s emotional interpretation and powerful delivery make this song of surrendering to love one that will be in heavy rotation for years to come.
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Sometimes it takes several failed relationships to finally find your perfect match. Legendary singer Etta James conveys this message with her strong and raspy voice that carries this timeless tune into uncharted territory.
Wanting to spend every waking moment with your significant other is a surefire way to know you’re in love. R&B group Atlantic Starr sings of remaining in that dreamy romantic state forever.
If you want to hint at taking a walk down the aisle, play this song. R&B singers Eric Benét and Tamia belt out their desire to spend their lives with their sweethearts in this quintessential wedding tune.
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Snoh Aalegra may be a newcomer to the R&B world, but her captivating tone is reminiscent of some of the genre’s biggest stars. This delightful and semi-nostalgic single off her Ugh, Those Feelings Again album celebrates finding a soulmate and basking in the peaceful energy that it brings.
This old-school track’s message of unwavering commitment is everlasting. London-based funk-disco band Heatwave draws listeners in with deep baritone notes coupled with unexpected yet brilliant falsetto moments throughout.
This late ‘90s ballad is a prom and wedding standard. Brother duo K-Ci and JoJo Hailey’s voices hit all the right notes as they express immense gratitude for finding the love of their lives.
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Luther Vandross’ velvety voice is unmistakably pure as he pledges his eternal love on this soul-stirring single. Not only did the 1989 release win over music fans, but it also garnered many accolades including a Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance.
Motown legend Marvin Gaye oozes sex appeal on this titillating track. Unmistakably seductive lyrics like, “I’ve been really trying baby/To hold back this feeling for so long,” cut right to the chase about what’s on his mind.
Babyface is the mastermind behind some of the most memorable ballads of our time. He’s practically created the blueprint for swoon-worthy songs to get you in the mood for love and this Johnny Gill single is no exception. Originally written for R&B group After 7, this incredibly romantic tune set Gill up for a successful solo career outside of popular boy band New Edition. The award-winning ballad was such a hit that it eventually became his signature song.
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Once you’ve found “The One,” you want to be in their presence 24/7. Mary J. Blige’s heartfelt vocals shine on this unforgettable tribute to being head over heels in love. The chart-topping single became an instant classic, even scoring two Grammy Awards in 2006, including Best R&B Song.
Special occasions call for special songs and this masterpiece by musical trio Tony! Toni! Toné! fits the bill. Frontman Raphael Saadiq’s charming lyrics exude a vulnerability and sensibility that are the perfect complement to the mesmerizing instrumentation, notably the lush violin strings played throughout this quintessential anniversary song. What day is more love-filled than the date commemorating your union?
The title of this Percy Sledge track says it all. While the lyrics are straightforward and simple, the message is extraordinarily poignant. It’s true, there’s not much that a smitten person won’t do for the one who’s stolen their heart.
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(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman by Aretha Franklin
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(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman by Aretha Franklin
When a person can be your peace, that’s love. Aretha Franklin speaks firsthand about finding a partner who satisfies all her needs and makes her feel sensual and confident on this late ‘60s track. The Queen of Soul’s powerhouse performance cements this song’s place in music history as an all-time great.
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Midnight Train to Georgia by Gladys Knight & The Pips
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Midnight Train to Georgia by Gladys Knight & The Pips
There are songs that just soothe the soul and this chart-topping hit is one of them. Originally written as a country song, this rousing ballad was instantly transformed into an unequivocal R&B track thanks to Gladys Knight’s silky voice. The Georgia native passionately sings of following her heart and going wherever it leads in this song of going the distance for true love.