The R&B landscape in 2023 was a testament to the enduring talent of artists like Musiq Soulchild, Janelle Monáe, and Chris Brown. Singers and songwriters such as Victoria Monét, Leon Thomas, and Kenyon Dixon further solidified their positions with impressive projects, earning collaborations with industry giants like Ariana Grande, Drake, and Tyrese.
Alt-R&B witnessed the brilliance of acts like Sampha, Black Pumas, and SZA, whose 2022 album SOS continued to dominate charts, pushing the genre’s boundaries.
As we step into 2024, here’s a glimpse of the R&B albums that have fans eagerly anticipating their release.
1. Eric Bellinger: The Rebirth 3 (Feb. 9)
Eric Bellinger‘s penchant for thematic installments continues with The Rebirth 3. Following the success of his Born II Sing trilogy and the Rebirth series, the album, set to release on Feb. 9, includes the enticing singles “All For Me” and “La Perla.” Bellinger describes the latter as a bedroom jam that reflects his artistic evolution, harking back to the intuition-driven approach of The Rebirth (Part 1).
2. Usher: Coming Home (Feb. 9)
Usher‘s ninth studio album, Coming Home, has been long-awaited, with the R&B king teasing fans about a sequel to his groundbreaking Confessions. The 20-track offering, arriving on Feb. 9, features collaborations with Summer Walker, 21 Savage, H.E.R., and Jung Kook. Usher’s journey since his last album in 2016 promises a blend of nostalgic and contemporary R&B.
3. serpentwithfeet: GRIP (Feb. 16)
Alt-R&B artist serpentwithfeet kicked off the GRIP era with the pulsating track “Damn Gloves” in October, featuring Ty Dolla $ign and Yanga YaYa. The 10-track album, set for release on Feb. 16, celebrates black queer nightlife and explores the impact of intimate spaces on marginalized communities. The project follows Servant’s 2021 album, DEACON.
4. Jon B.: Waiting On You (Feb. 23)
R&B veteran Jon B. returns with his first album in over a decade, Waiting On You, featuring singles like “Understand” and the title track with Tank. The album, scheduled for Feb. 23, delves into the theme of anticipating love and the patience required during life’s waiting seasons.
5. Tyla (March 1)
South African singer Tyla, known for her breakout hit “Water,” introduces her self-titled debut album TYLA on March 1. The project aims to establish Tyla’s name and sound, featuring tracks like “On and On,” “Truth or Dare,” and “Butterflies.”
6. J. Valentine: Conversations With Women (TBA)
J. Valentine, the multifaceted artist, songwriter, and podcast host, is set to release his debut album, Conversations With Women. The album, featuring singles “Thank Me for That” and “Before the Streets,” offers a comprehensive showcase of Valentine’s musical prowess.
7. Louis York: Songs With Friends (TBA)
Duo Louis York, comprised of Claude Kelly and Chuck Harmony, returns with Songs With Friends, featuring collaborations with musical peers. The album, succeeding their debut album, American Griots, promises soulful duets and engaging compositions.
8. Andra Day: Cassandra (TBA)
Andra Day, acclaimed for her role as Billie Holiday, unveils her third album, Cassandra, this spring. The project, named after her full first name, includes the soul-stirring ballad “Where Do We Go” and reflects Day’s most personal work to date.
9. Mary J. Blige (TBA)
Mary J. Blige, the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul, has hinted at a new project slated for a summer release. While details remain scarce, her recent hit “Still Believe in Love” featuring Vado raises expectations for another impactful album.
10. Maxwell: Blacksummers’ Night (TBA)
Celebrating the 15th anniversary of BLACKSUMMERSNIGHT, Maxwell gears up for the third installment. With singles like “OFF” and a unique release approach, Blacksummers Night is expected to maintain Maxwell’s signature style and deliver a compelling listening experience.
11. Syleena Johnson: Legacy (TBA)
Syleena Johnson pays tribute to her late father, Syl Johnson, on Legacy. The album, featuring the lead single “Monsters in the Closet,” explores Johnson’s experiences with anxiety, triggers, and the processing of her father’s death.
12. Miguel: VISCERA (TBA)
Miguel’s eventful 2023 set the stage for VISCERA, his fifth album. Described as an experience capturing the nature of change, the album follows the success of his singles “Sure Thing” and “Number 9” and promises a compelling blend of the violent and beautiful aspects of change.
13. Lalah Hathaway (TBA)
Grammy-nominated singer Lalah Hathaway, signed with SoNo Recording Group and Virgin Music, anticipates a new album in early 2024. While details are scarce, the album promises to be a noteworthy addition to Hathaway’s distinguished discography.
