The albums that define
rhythm and blues.
Our picks for where to start with rhythm and blues — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top rhythm and blues artists
Start with one of these.
The rhythm and blues essentials
Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.
The Temptations
Still Here
A heartfelt blend of soul and R&B that reflects both nostalgia and resilience in its melodies.
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Herbie Hancock
Takin' Off
A vibrant blend of hard bop and rhythmic grooves, showcasing Hancock's inventive piano work and catchy melodies.
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Solange Knowles
True
A vibrant blend of dance-pop and soul that captures the complexities of love and self-identity.
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Mavis Staples
Carry Me Home
A soulful tapestry of hope and resilience woven through bluesy instrumentation and Mavis Staples' powerful voice.
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Danger Mouse
The Grey Album
A genre-blurring fusion of hip-hop and rock, layered with innovative sampling and a distinct narrative flow.
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Pat Boone
In a Metal Mood – No More Mr. Nice Guy
Pat Boone transforms classic rock anthems into smooth, big band arrangements, blending nostalgia with a playful twist.
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Pat Boone
Moody River
A smooth blend of pop balladry and country-inflected melodies capturing early '60s romantic nostalgia.
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George Benson
Big Boss Band
A smooth blend of jazz and R&B, with Benson's signature guitar work and warm vocals shining through each track.
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George Benson
The George Benson Cookbook
An engaging blend of jazz, funk, and blues, showcasing Benson's virtuosic guitar work and smooth vocals.
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Taj Mahal
Tajmo
A vibrant fusion of blues and R&B, blending classic rhythms with contemporary flair.
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Taj Mahal
Right Now!
A vibrant fusion of blues and R&B, infused with rich storytelling and soulful instrumentation.
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Ai
Kansha!!!!! - Thank You for 20 Years New and Best
A jubilant blend of J-pop and gospel-infused melodies celebrating two decades of heartfelt music.
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Ai
Respect All
A vibrant blend of J-pop and gospel-infused rhythms that radiate positivity and resilience.
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Grace Jones
Island Life
A vibrant fusion of Caribbean rhythms and urban disco, showcasing Grace Jones' commanding presence and eclectic influences.
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Grace Jones
Living My Life
A vibrant fusion of disco rhythms and new wave sensibilities layered with Grace Jones' commanding vocals.
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Alessandra Amoroso
Il mondo in un secondo
A lush blend of pop and soul, infused with heartfelt lyrics and anthemic melodies that resonate deeply.
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Alessandra Amoroso
Senza nuvole
Joyful melodies blend with heartfelt lyrics, showcasing Amoroso's powerful voice and pop-infused gospel roots.
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Nelly Furtado
Whoa, Nelly!
A vibrant blend of pop, R&B, and folk influences, showcasing Nelly Furtado's unique vocal style and eclectic songwriting.
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Nelly Furtado
7
A vibrant fusion of contemporary R&B and Latin rhythms, celebrating self-empowerment and emotional honesty.
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The Temptations
Together
A vibrant fusion of soul and funk that showcases harmonious vocals against infectious grooves.
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Adele
19
Adele's debut weaves raw emotion through soulful melodies and poignant lyrics, showcasing her remarkable vocal prowess.
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Adele
25
Adele's heartfelt ballads blend soul and pop, exploring themes of love and loss with her signature powerful vocals.
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Elton John
Who Believes in Angels?
A heartfelt exploration of resilience and belonging, woven through folk-inflected pop melodies and intimate storytelling.
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Elton John
Victim of Love
A vibrant mix of rhythm and blues infused with Elton John's signature flamboyance and emotive storytelling.
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