Welcome to our new column, introducing our favorite new R&B songs of the week. The R&B world is full of gems, when you take the time to look for them. R&B lovers should be excited – the new music of today offers some of the best new R&B music from both rising and current stars who are contributing something new to the genre. From artists such as 6LACK dropping his highly-anticipated album ‘Since I Have A Lover,’ to girl group FLO sharing a new track “Fly Girl,” with the iconic Missy Elliot … things are heating up ahead of summertime.
Each song selected on this week’s list has been hand-picked and offers something for every listener. Check out some of our favorite new R&B songs of the week, from releases that dropped on March 29.
Omarian – “Big Vibez”
The R&B singer makes a return to the scene with a brand new single “Big Vibez.” With this song being his first release in 2023, fans are eager to support O as he serenades listeners with buttery smooth new music. We can’t wait to see what else is in store for Omarian this year. The single also was accompanied by a music video. This is definitely one of my favorite new R&B songs.
6LACK – “Stories In Motion” (with Wale)
In honor of 6LACK’s first album release in 5 years, ‘Since I Have A Lover’ is filled with songs you’re sure to have on repeat. One of my personal favorites is “Stories In Motion,” with Wale, which features a melodic piano beat and harmonious singing from 6LACK. It’s catchy and guaranteed to be something you will want to listen to more than once. In a press release, 6LACK said of the project: “We are simply pushing love because it’s needed. The verses are short and serve as a moment of acknowledgment for how I feel, and the chorus is less of a lyric and more of a feeling. It’s an exhale; it’s relief, it’s trust, it’s happiness, it’s surreal.”
FLO – “Fly Girl” Ft. Missy Elliot
British girl group FLO sampled Elliott’s 2002 anthem “Work It” on their new track “Fly Girl.”
“‘Fly Girl’ is all about confidence, good vibes and feeling your best. It’s a lively, feel-good song that still incorporates clever lyrics and fire vocals, if we do say so ourselves,” the trio said in a press release statement. “It’s quite literally a perfect fusion of old-school meets modern-day R&B, with a nod to and feature from the original fly girl Missy Elliott herself.”
Chloe – “In Pieces”
“In Pieces” is the title track to Chloe’s upcoming project of the same name. Her upcoming project drops this Friday, and if it’s anything like the title single “In Pieces,” audiences are in for a treat. The song’s message to listeners is that it’s OK to be vulnerable.
Traetwothree – “Watch It Grow” ft. Sevyn Streeter
South Central’s own, TRAETWOTHREE is a rising R&B artist that I’m excited about. He released a new EP titled ‘Long Story Short,’ filled with 6 tracks that each offer something new to the listener. One of the standouts on the project include “Watch It Grow,” which features Sevyn Streeter. He incorporates upbeat, afrobeat R&B vibes into the melody and it’s definitely experimental – but it works.
Liyah Katana – “STR8”
Toronto R&B songstress Liyah Katana shares her new song “STR8” with an accompanying visual. As a newcomer to the game, Liyah is impressive. This is the first song that I’ve heard by her, and I’m tuned in ready to hear more. This is a great introduction song that showcases her sultry vocal range as she discusses the aftermath of a breakup.
Jordan Hawkins – “Timeless” ft. Phabo
R&B rockstar Jordan Hawkins shares his new release “Timeless” ft. Phabo – and it’s a song you need to add into your rotation forsure. The song features a timeless sample of Donnell Jones “U Know What’s Up,” alongside Hawkins’ own personal twist. He incorporates a rockstar-like guitar on the chorus, which adds a completely new element to the song that is genre-defying.
Amaria – “Secrets”
Amaria is nothing short of a hidden gem and talented songwriter.
“Where’s your love when I need it? You keep it hidden, I don’t see it, baby. In my mind, there’s a reason,” she croons on the track. The smooth, slow R&B track is a confident single that puts Amaria’s vocals on full display.
