The 1990s was a pivotal decade for R&B music, marked by the rise of new sub-genres, innovative production techniques, and a new crop of talented artists. The decade saw the emergence of superstars like Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, and Boyz II Men, who dominated the charts with their soulful voices and catchy melodies.
A New Generation of R&B
The 1990s was the era of the “new jack swing” sound, characterized by its use of samples, drum machines, and infectious beats. This style was pioneered by artists like Teddy Riley, Babyface, and Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, who went on to produce and write hits for some of the decade’s biggest stars.
The Rise of Hip-Hop and R&B Fusion
The 1990s also saw the rise of hip-hop and R&B fusion, as artists began to blend the two genres to create a new sound. This fusion was exemplified by the success of groups like TLC, Color Me Badd, and SWV, who combined catchy harmonies with hip-hop beats and rhythms.
The Top 100 R&B Songs of the 1990s
Sifting through the decade’s extensive list of R&B hits, we’ve curated a list of the top 100 songs that capture the essence of the era. From soulful ballads to energetic dance tracks, these songs represent the diversity and creativity that defined the 1990s R&B scene.
Top 10 R&B Songs of the 1990s
1. Whitney Houston – “I Will Always Love You” (1992)
2. Mariah Carey – “Vision of Love” (1990)
3. Boyz II Men – “End of the Road” (1992)
4. TLC – “Waterfalls” (1995)
5. Usher – “You Make Me Wanna…” (1997)
6. Keith Sweat – “Nobody” (1996)
7. R. Kelly – “I Believe I Can Fly” (1996)
8. Brandy – “The Boy Is Mine” (1998)
9. Shanice – “I Love Your Smile” (1991)
10. En Vogue – “My Lovin’ (You’re Never Gonna Get It)” (1992)
The Rest of the Top 100 R&B Songs of the 1990s
11-20:
* Bryan Adams – “Please Forgive Me” (1993)
* MC Lyte – “Cold Rock a Party” (1994)
* Shai – “If I Ever Fall in Love” (1992)
* Tony! Toni! Toné! – “Feels Good” (1993)
* Mint Condition – “Breakin’ My Heart (Pretty Brown Eyes)” (1991)
* SWV – “Weak” (1993)
* Aretha Franklin – “A Deeper Love” (1994)
* Keith Washington – “If You Were Mine” (1992)
* After 7 – “Heys Girl” (1991)
21-30:
* Brian McKnight – “Love of My Life” (1995)
* En Vogue – “Give It Up, Turn It Loose” (1992)
* Boyz II Men – “I’ll Make Love to You” (1994)
* Mariah Carey – “Dreamlover” (1993)
* R. Kelly – “Your Body’s Callin'” (1993)
* Usher – “Nice & Slow” (1997)
* Shanice – “Silent Scream” (1994)
* Brandy – “Situation” (1994)
* Aaron Hall – “Don’t Be Afraid” (1991)
31-40:
* Jodeci – “Forever My Lady” (1991)
* TLC – “Creep” (1994)
* Color Me Badd – “All for Love” (1994)
* K-Ci & JoJo – “All My Life” (1994)
* En Vogue – “Never Gonna Get It Out of My Head” (1992)
* Whitney Houston – “I’m Your Baby Tonight” (1990)
* Mariah Carey – “Can’t Let Go” (1991)
* D’Angelo – “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” (1995)
* Keith Sweat – “Twisted” (1996)
41-50:
* Usher – “You’re My Only One” (1997)
* Brian McKnight – “Anytime” (1997)
* R. Kelly – “I Can Love You Like That” (1993)
* K-Ci & JoJo – “All My Life (Live)” (1995)
* Mary J. Blige – “Real Love” (1994)
* R. Kelly – “Gotta Make It” (1993)
* Shanice – “I Promise” (1994)
* Boyz II Men – “I’ll Never Write My Story” (1992)
* En Vogue – “Giving Him Something He Can Feel” (1992)
51-60:
* Mariah Carey – “One Sweet Day” (1995)
* Whitney Houston – “Exhale (Shoop Shoop)” (1995)
* Jodeci – “Love Me” (1995)
* 112 – “Peaches & Cream” (1996)
* R. Kelly – “Fortunate” (1996)
* Shai – “If I Ever Fall in Love (Remix)” (1993)
* En Vogue – “Riddle” (1993)
* TLC – “Kick Your Game” (1995)
* Usher – “You Superstar” (1997)
Conclusion
The top 100 R&B songs of the 1990s is a testament to the era’s incredible musical diversity. From the smooth harmonies of Boyz II Men to the hip-hop influenced beats of TLC, these songs showcase the decade’s innovative production styles and talented artists. Whether you’re a seasoned R&B fan or a new listener, this list is sure to bring back memories and introduce you to the decade’s most iconic hits.
FAQs
Q: Who are some of the most influential R&B artists of the 1990s?
A: Some of the most influential R&B artists of the 1990s include Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Boyz II Men, Usher, and R. Kelly.
Q: What is the significance of the “new jack swing” sound in the 1990s R&B scene?
A: The “new jack swing” sound was a significant development in the 1990s R&B scene, characterized by its use of samples, drum machines, and infectious beats. This style was pioneered by artists like Teddy Riley, Babyface, and Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, who went on to produce and write hits for some of the decade’s biggest stars.
Q: How did hip-hop influence R&B music in the 1990s?
A: Hip-hop had a significant influence on R&B music in the 1990s, as artists began to blend the two genres to create a new sound. This fusion was exemplified by the success of groups like TLC, Color Me Badd, and SWV, who combined catchy harmonies with hip-hop beats and rhythms.
Q: What are some of the most popular R&B songs of the 1990s that didn’t make the top 100 list?
A: Some popular R&B songs of the 1990s that didn’t make the top 100 list include tracks by artists like En Vogue (“Giving Him Something He Can Feel”), Shanice (“Nothin’ Compares”), and Brian McKnight (“Anytime”).
