In the past year alone, some of the best R&B projects of the previous decade have emerged. When hip-hop became the most popular genre all over the world, many people started sleeping on it. But after Sean “Diddy” Combs declared, “R&B is dead,” it seemed his goal to bring the genre back into focus was working.
Artists like Summer Walker, Victoria Monet, SZA, Maeta, Don Toliver, Tink and many more have released several albums that have received great support. While there have been a lot of great projects this year, the consensus seems to be that Diddy Love Album: Off The Grid The LP has taken the top spot in our hearts and playlists and may well have a high chance of winning gold trophies at the 2024 Grammy Awards. Although only time will tell.
Ahead of the highly anticipated awards ceremony, we decided to rank the five best R&B albums of the last 12 months. The competition will be fierce and we can’t wait to see who will come out on top.
1) Diddy – Love Album: Off The Grid
Having made a bold statement that R&B was dead, fans of the multifaceted legend eagerly awaited Diddy’s return to music. With his first studio album in over a decade, Love Album: Off The Grid, which quickly became the #1 R&B record in the country shortly after its release, delivered significantly. With 23 tracks, it clocked in at just under 83 minutes. Diddy put together the Avengers of R&B group to collaborate on his latest album. The project featured artists such as Babyface, Mary J. Blige, Ty Dolla $ign, Kalan.FrFr, The Weeknd, Swae Lee, Jacquees, Summer Walker, Jozzy, Teyana Taylor and many others. Tracks like “Another One of Me” featuring 21 Savage and “Moments” featuring Justin Bieber have taken the internet by storm. His heartfelt ode to his late partner Kim Porter was the perfect way to cap off an impressive onslaught of soulful tunes.
2) SZA – SOS
SOS this is SZA’s first full-length project since her critically acclaimed release. CTRL. Her new album included 23 tracks that ran a few minutes over an hour. Featuring appearances from Travis Scott, Ol’ Dirty Bastard, Phoebe Bridgers and Don Toliver, the “Kill Bill” singer showcased her impeccable vocal range and versatility as a songwriter. SOS emphasized that she is inspired by hip-hop and pop music, while remaining true to the sound that made her a global sensation. She also recently released an acoustic version of her hit “Snooze” featuring pop sensation Justin Bieber. SZA dominated Billboard charts since the release of her first album in over five years.
3) Don Toliver – Love is sick
The famous saying, “The third time is the charm,” came true for Don Toliver in his latest feature film. Love is sick this is his third album and by far his most successful. Toliver’s ability to change his voice and invite a new generation of music into his world helped bring his vision to life. The talent received assists from Kali Uchis, Lil Durk, GloRilla, James Blake, Travis Scott and Tizo Touchdown. Tracks like “Bus Stop” featuring Brent Fayyaz and “Slow Motion” featuring global superstar Wizkid are fan favorites. Additionally, Toliver’s collaboration with Bieber and Future on “Private Landing” helped him complete his solid 20-track album.
4) Maeta – When I hear your name
Maeta’s new album. When I hear your name, began with a crash that continued throughout the entire tape. Her debut song “Sexual Love” featured a dynamic duet between her and famed singer-songwriter James Fauntleroy. During the recording of the 13-song record, she received help from Ty Dolla $ign, Lucky Daye, Ambré and others. Although the album is only 40 minutes long, it feels intense and tracks like “Control Freak”, “Questions” and “Through The Night” perfectly reflect Maeta’s fantastic production talent and sensual tone.
5) Victoria Monet – JAGUAR II
Victoria Monet is having a real moment this year. Initially considered one of the best songwriters in the industry, she is now entering her era as a recording artist and performer. Monae’s viral track “On My Mama” took the internet by storm and became a must-see performance during her sold-out national tour. The Southern hip-hop inspired music track featured a smooth Chalie Boy interpolation that has been the talk of the streets since its release. The 11-track album features appearances from Buju Banton, Lucky Daye and Earth, Wind & Fire. The 36-minute record helped increase Monet’s fame every day.
Honorable Mentions:
- Rory I thought it would be different
- Coco Jones What I didn’t tell you
- T-Pain on top of the covers
- Tink Thanks 4 Nothing
- Summer Walker’s CLEAR 2: SOFT LIFE
- Jordan Ward FORWARD