The Best R&B Offerings of 2023

So many great R&B projects dropped in 2023, but these 8 rose to the top for us.

2023 was a fantastic year in the diverse world of R&B — so good that it was tough to narrow down our list. But, this is our list of the Best R&B Offerings of 2023. We called them offerings because some aren’t considered albums — but they’re great in their own right. 🍠🍠

Victoria Monét – JAGUAR II

There’s a reason why Victoria Monét has 7 GRAMMY nominations this year. ‘JAGUAR II’ is a sophisticated, sexy R&B project. Executive produced by D’Mile, this album saw Victoria finally reach mainstream heights that she’s been destined to reach for a decade.

Kenyon Dixon – The R&B You Love

‘The R&B You Love’ takes us on a journey through different eras of R&B – and Kenyon does so masterfully throughout the album. “Lucky” is a project standout and is nominated for a GRAMMY – a huge feat for an independent R&B artist.

Jordan Ward – FORWARD

Jordan’s music blurs the line between several genres, but what we love most about Jordan is his ear for melody and his eagerness to deliver something fresh. This former Beyoncé & Janet Jackson dancer is going to do big things in 2024 and beyond. We’re locked in.

Janelle Monáe – The Age Of Pleasure

If your summer wasn’t soundtracked by Janelle’s ‘The Age Of Pleasure’, you didn’t do summer right! The album (which is nominated for Album Of The Year at this year’s GRAMMYs) sees Janelle at her most free and is pure fun from top to bottom. The Age Of Pleasure Tour also happened to be one of the best live shows we’ve ever seen.

Khamari – A Brief Nirvana

R&B crooners are a rare find these days, but Khamari has all that it takes to become a staple in the genre – much like the likes of Frank Ocean, Miguel, etc. ‘A Brief Nirvana’ is a beautiful introduction to this Boston-born singer’s career.

Q – Soul,PRESENT

‘Soul,PRESENT’ is a psychedelic ride through the funky sounds of the 70s and 80s. Lots of synth, lots of horns, lots of keys…lots of fun. We highly recommend listening on an upcoming weekend and getting ready to catch a groove.

Kelela – Raven

Electronic R&B wouldn’t be the same without Kelela. Whatever she offers, we’re gonna eat it up every time. And this ‘Raven’ album was no different!

Maeta – When I Hear Your Name

Maeta’s ‘When I Hear Your Name’ was a superstar-level album ahead of its time. Maeta has a presence and voice that’s going to allow her to be around for years to come. We expect this album to become a cult favorite that people revisit for years as Maeta’s star continues to get brighter.

Honorable Mentions:

Elmiene – EL-MEAN

Tinashe – BB/ANG3L

Chlöe – In Pieces

TA Thomas – Caught Between 2 Worlds

Cleo Sol – Heaven

Destin Conrad – SUBMISSIVE