The best Alternative R&B albums
of the 2010s.
Where to start with 2010–2019 alternative R&B — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 2010s — alternative R&B
Top picks from 2010–2019, ranked by where we would start.
The Weeknd
Starboy
A sleek blend of dark R&B and pop, layered with atmospheric production and haunting melodies.
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The Weeknd
House of Balloons
Atmospheric and haunting, blending ethereal production with raw vocal intimacy that redefined R&B's boundaries.
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Selena Gomez
Stars Dance
A vibrant blend of dance-pop and electropop, infused with infectious hooks and an energetic, youthful spirit.
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Selena Gomez
Revival
Revival encapsulates the essence of Selena's artistry at a pivotal moment in her career, making it an accessible entry point for new listeners. Its tracks delve into themes of self-discovery and healing that resonate widely.
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Donald Glover
Royalty
An eclectic blend of genres, merging introspective lyricism with experimental production that reflects a nuanced exploration of identity.
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Donald Glover
"Awaken, My Love!"
A vibrant tapestry of psychedelic soul and funk that intertwines haunting melodies with introspective storytelling.
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Travis Scott
Days Before Rodeo
A sonic landscape blending atmospheric beats with introspective lyrics, encapsulating the tension between ambition and vulnerability.
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Travis Scott
Owl Pharaoh
A kaleidoscopic blend of atmospheric beats and introspective lyricism that captures the essence of a modern hip-hop odyssey.
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Halsey
Hopeless Fountain Kingdom
A cinematic blend of pop and R&B, weaving themes of love and loss through ethereal production and confessional lyrics.
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Halsey
Badlands
'Badlands' showcases Halsey's unique blend of styles and serves as a powerful introduction to her lyrical themes. The cohesive production creates an immersive atmosphere that draws listeners in.
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Blackbear
Anonymous
A raw exploration of heartbreak and self-reflection wrapped in catchy hooks and modern production.
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Blackbear
Digital Druglord
A blend of introspective lyrics and catchy melodies wrapped in an experimental pop production that captures a generation's struggles.
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Joji
In Tongues (EP)
An intimate blend of lo-fi production and haunting vocals that explores themes of love and vulnerability.
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Joji
Pink Season: The Prophecy
A chaotic blend of comedic beats and surreal lyrics wrapped in colorful electronic production.
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Common
Black America Again
A contemplative blend of jazz-infused hip-hop and soulful melodies addressing social issues and personal narratives.
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Common
Nobody's Smiling
A gritty fusion of introspective lyrics and soulful beats that reflect urban struggles and resilience.
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Willow Smith
The 1st
A dreamy blend of alternative R&B and pop that navigates themes of youth, identity, and emotional vulnerability.
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Willow Smith
Ardipithecus
A genre-blending exploration of identity, combining experimental pop with introspective lyrics and eclectic soundscapes.
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Trippie Redd
A Love Letter to You
An emotional blend of cloud rap and alternative R&B, where vulnerability meets raw energy in melodic flows.
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Trippie Redd
A Love Letter to You 3
An emotionally charged blend of trap beats and melodic flows that encapsulates vulnerability and youthful angst.
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Tinashe
Joyride
An eclectic blend of sultry R&B grooves, vibrant pop anthems, and introspective ballads that showcase Tinashe's versatile vocal prowess.
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Tinashe
Amethyst
Ethereal R&B soundscapes blend with introspective lyrics, creating a hazy atmosphere of emotional exploration and sensuality.
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Miguel
All I Want Is You
Smooth vocal delivery intertwines with lush instrumentation, creating an intimate exploration of love and desire.
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Miguel
Kaleidoscope Dream
This album features a cohesive collection of tracks that highlight Miguel's ability to balance vulnerability with boldness. Its eclectic sound invites listeners to explore the depths of his artistry.
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