Welcome music lovers, old and new, to the ultimate trip down memory lane!
Whether you grew up dancing to the smooth beats of 80s R&B or just discovered this iconic era, one thing is for sure: the music is timeless.
So please sit back, relax, and get ready to groove as we dive into the best 80s R&B songs that will have you singing along and feeling nostalgic.
1. “When Doves Cry” – Prince & The Revolution
Released in 1984 as the lead single from the album “Purple Rain,” “When Doves Cry” by Prince & The Revolution is undoubtedly one of the greatest 80s R&B songs that continues to captivate listeners with its unique blend of funk, rock, and electronic elements.
The song became an instant hit, topping charts worldwide and earning Prince his first number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100.
It is also considered a groundbreaking song for its innovative use of a drum machine and the absence of a bass guitar.
2. How Will I Know – Whitney Houston
“How Will I Know” by Whitney Houston is undoubtedly one of the greatest 80s R&B songs ever.
The lyrics tell a story about someone trying to determine if their love interest feels the same way, which many can relate to.
Houston’s powerful voice and impeccable range are showcased throughout the song, mesmerizing listeners.
3. Give Me the Night – George Benson
“Give Me the Night” by George Benson is an iconic 80s R&B song that has stood the test of time.
Released in 1980, it became a hit and remains a beloved classic.
This upbeat and groovy track showcases Benson’s smooth vocals and effortless guitar skills, making it impossible not to dance along to.
The song is brimming with energy and captures the essence of the vibrant nightlife scene of the 80s.
Its catchy chorus and infectious rhythm have made it a staple at parties and an all-time favorite for many fans of R&B music.
4. “(Sexual) Healing” – Marvin Gaye
“(Sexual) Healing” by Marvin Gaye is an iconic song that defined the era of 80s R&B.
Released in 1982, this upbeat and sensual track was a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard R&B chart and becoming one of Gaye’s most successful singles.
What makes this song so unique is its smooth blend of soulful vocals, funky basslines, and catchy beats that still make listeners tap their feet today.
5. “P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)” – Michael Jackson
“P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)” is a groovy, upbeat track by the legendary King of Pop, Michael Jackson.
Released in 1982 as part of his iconic album “Thriller,” this song quickly became a fan favorite and remains one of his most loved hits.
The smooth melodies, catchy beat, and Michael’s exquisite vocals make it a staple of 80s R&B music.
6. “Billie Jean” – Michael Jackson
“Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson is a timeless R&B classic
Released in 1982 as the second single from his iconic album “Thriller,” this song quickly rose to the top of the charts and solidified Jackson’s reign as one of the greatest performers in music history.
The pulsating beat, infectious bassline, and Jackson’s soulful vocals make this track impossible to resist.
7. “Candy Girl” – New Edition
“Candy Girl” is a timeless R&B song from the 80s by New Edition that still holds a special place in our hearts today.
With its catchy beat and smooth harmonies, it’s impossible not to tap your feet and sing along. The lyrics tell the story of a boy who can’t resist a girl with her irresistible charm, just like candy.
8. Before I Let Go – Maze, Frankie Beverly
“Before I Let Go” by Maze featuring Frankie Beverly is an iconic 80s R&B song that continues to be a staple on playlists and dance floors even today.
The smooth vocals of Frankie Beverly, backed by the soulful sounds of Maze, make this track an instant classic.
With its catchy beat and infectious chorus, it’s no wonder this song has stood the test of time.
Released in 1981, “Before I Let Go” quickly became a fan favorite and reached #13 on the Billboard R&B chart.
9. Super Freak – Rick James
“Super Freak” by Rick James is a classic 80s R&B song that never fails to get people on their feet and dancing.
Released in 1981, it became an instant hit and has remained popular ever since.
The song’s infectious beat, with James’ smooth vocals and funky bassline, creates the perfect blend of disco and funk.
10. “Smooth Operator” – Sade
“Smooth Operator” by the English band Sade is a classic 80s R&B song that has stood the test of time.
Released in 1984, this smooth and sultry track was a major hit, reaching number five on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and solidifying Sade’s place as one of the most iconic artists of the decade.
The song showcases lead singer Sade Adu’s mesmerizing vocals, which perfectly complement the jazzy instrumentals and storytelling lyrics.
With its catchy chorus and seductive sound, “Smooth Operator” became an instant favorite among fans, making it a staple in many playlists even today.
11. “Let’s Groove” – Earth, Wind & Fire
“Let’s Groove” by Earth, Wind & Fire is an iconic 80s R&B song that holds a special place in the hearts of music lovers worldwide.
Released in 1981, it quickly became a chart-topping hit and has remained a beloved classic.
The infectious beat and catchy lyrics are impossible not to dance along to, making it the perfect feel-good song for any occasion.
The smooth vocals of lead singer Maurice White, combined with the soulful harmonies of the band, create an irresistible sound that truly captures the essence of R&B music.
12. “Let It Whip” – Dazz Band
“Let It Whip” by the Dazz Band is an iconic 80s R&B song that continues to captivate audiences with its catchy beat and lively energy.
Released in 1982, this Grammy award-winning hit quickly became a dance floor favorite and has since been sampled and covered by various artists.
The blend of funky basslines, synth melodies, and groovy vocals makes it impossible not to move your feet to the rhythm.
With lyrics about letting loose and having a good time, it’s no wonder “Let It Whip” remains a go-to track for parties and events.
13. Purple Rain – Prince
“Purple Rain” is a timeless classic by Prince, released in 1984 as part of his album of the same name.
This song became an instant hit and solidified Prince’s position as one of the most excellent musicians ever.
With its unique R&B, rock, and pop blend, “Purple Rain” showcases Prince’s distinctive vocals and impressive guitar skills.
The raw emotion and vulnerability portrayed in the lyrics and the powerful instrumentals give this song unforgettable appeal.
14. Never Too Much – Luther Vandross
“Never Too Much” by Luther Vandross is a timeless R&B song from the 80s that still resonates with listeners today.
It’s a feel-good, upbeat track with catchy melodies and smooth vocals that capture the essence of love and happiness.
The lyrics speak of being overwhelmed with love for someone and feeling like it’s never enough, thus emphasizing the idea of cherishing every moment with that special someone.
Luther’s soulful voice brings depth and emotion to the song, making it impossible not to tap your feet or sing along.
15. Rock With You – Michael Jackson
“Rock With You” by Michael Jackson is one of the greatest and most iconic songs of the 80s.
Its infectious beat, catchy lyrics, and smooth vocals make it a timeless hit that still has people grooving to this day.
The song’s production perfectly captures the essence of 80s R&B using synthesizers, funky basslines, and soulful guitar riffs.
Jackson’s voice effortlessly glides over the music, captivating listeners with his signature falsetto vocals.
16. “Sweet Love” – Anita Baker
“Sweet Love” by Anita Baker is an iconic 80s R&B song that continues to capture hearts with its smooth and soulful tune.
Released in 1986, the track quickly became a fan favorite. The song perfectly encapsulates the essence of love, with lyrics that speak of longing, passion, and devotion.
Baker’s velvet-like vocals add depth and emotion to every word, making listeners feel every sentiment she conveys.
17. “Kiss” – Prince & The Revolution
“Kiss” by Prince & The Revolution is a timeless classic that perfectly encapsulates the essence of 80s R&B music.
Its funky beats and smooth vocals make it impossible not to tap your feet or sing along to this infectious song.
Released in 1986 as part of Prince’s critically acclaimed album “Parade,” “Kiss” became an instant hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The seductive lyrics and playful melody make it a perfect love song, displaying Prince’s incredible musical talent and range.
FAQs
What was the #1 R&B song in 1980?
“Kiss” by Prince & The Revolution is a timeless classic that perfectly encapsulates the essence of 80s R&B music.
Its funky beats and smooth vocals make it impossible not to tap your feet or sing along to this infectious song.
Released in 1986 as part of Prince’s critically acclaimed album “Parade,” “Kiss” became an instant hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Was R&B popular in the 80s?
The 1980s was undoubtedly a golden era for R&B music. With its smooth and soulful melodies, R&B rose to popularity and became an integral part of the music industry during this decade.
Artists like Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, and Prince dominated the charts with powerful vocals and infectious beats.
The emergence of MTV also played a significant role in exposing R&B to a wider audience through music videos.
Moreover, incorporating electronic sounds and synthesizers into R&B added a refreshing twist to the genre, making it even more appealing to listeners.
What is 80s R&B called?
The sound of 80s R&B, also known as 1980s contemporary R&B, can be described as soulful, smooth, and danceable.
It drew inspiration from genres such as funk, disco, and soul but added a modern twist using synthesizers and drum machines.
This era marked the rise of iconic artists like Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, and Prince, who dominated the charts with their unique blend of R&B vocals and catchy pop melodies.
How was R&B in the 80s?
The R&B music scene in the 1980s was filled with smooth grooves, soulful vocals, and infectious beats.
It was a decade that saw the rise of iconic artists such as Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, and Prince, who all left an indelible mark on the genre.
The sound of 80s R&B was heavily influenced by disco and funk from the previous decade, but it also incorporated electronic and pop music elements.
The use of synthesizers became prevalent, giving songs a more polished and upbeat feel. This era also saw the emergence of new sub-genres like New Jack Swing and Quiet Storm.
Why is 80s R&B so good?
80s R&B, also known as rhythm and blues, is often regarded as one of the greatest eras in music.
And it’s not hard to see why. This genre was a melting pot of soulful vocals, funky basslines, and catchy beats that captured the hearts of listeners worldwide.
The live instrumentation and synthesizers combined created a unique, nostalgic, forward-thinking sound.
Artists like Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Prince, and Luther Vandross dominated the scene with their undeniable talent and charisma.
The lyrics spoke about love, heartbreak, and social issues in a way that resonated with audiences.
Furthermore, 80s R&B became synonymous with dance culture as people flocked to clubs to groove to these infectious tunes.
It was an escapist paradise that allowed people to forget their troubles and vibe to the music.
Conclusion
The 80s was a decade filled with amazing R&B music that continues to stand the test of time.
From soulful ballads to upbeat dance tracks, this era produced some of the genre’s greatest and most influential songs.
Whether you were jamming out to Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” or swaying to Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance With Somebody,” there is no denying the impact these songs had on the music industry and our personal lives.
So, let us take a trip down memory lane and appreciate these timeless classics that will always have a special place in our hearts.
