7 Best Underrated R&B Songs: R&B Hidden Gems

We all cherish those iconic, silky smooth R&B tunes, but there are unsung heroes that deserve a spot on your mix deck. In this melodic treasure hunt, I’ll be unearthing 7 best underrated R&B songs” that should be nestled in any music lover’s collection.

From buttery vocals to hypnotic basslines, these gems are like a velvet embrace for your eardrums. Fellow DJs, take note – these tracks are sure to add some sizzle to your sets.

Here are the best underrated R&B Songs that you can check out:

List Of Best Underrated R&B Songs

Best underrated R&B Songs in a list format:

1. “All I Do” by Cleptomaniacs feat. Bryan Chambers

Ah, let’s kick things off with the magnetic “All I Do” by Cleptomaniacs featuring the talented Bryan Chambers. This luscious gem, released in 2001, is a magnificent cover of Stevie Wonder’s classic. The Cleptomaniacs sprinkle their house music magic, whilst Bryan Chambers’s soulful vocals make you groove involuntarily. Find this masterpiece on the album “Cleptomaniacs” released under Defected Records. A match made in R&B heaven!

2. “Gettin’ In The Way” by Jill Scott

Next up is the enchanting “Gettin’ In The Way” by the ever-soulful Jill Scott. From her debut album “Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol. 1” released in 2000 under Hidden Beach Recordings, this track is Jill Scott at her finest. The blend of her honey-like vocals with sassy lyrics and a killer beat is pure audio indulgence.

3. “Sure Thing” by Miguel

Make room for the suave Miguel with his brilliant song “Sure Thing”. This song is like a velvety whisper to your soul. Released in 2010 under Jive Records, it’s a part of his debut album “All I Want Is You”. With its clever lyrics and mellow guitar, it’s definitely a tune to serenade your senses.

4. “Coffee” by Marc E. Bassy

“Coffee” by Marc E. Bassy is an indie R&B pearl that deserves your attention. Released in 2014 as a part of his album “Only The Poets” under Independent label, Marc’s voice pairs impeccably with the melodic, coffee-themed lyrics, and the track’s soothing ambiance. It’s like a latte for your ears!

5. “Daydream” by Joonie

Joonie blesses us with the beautifully crafted “Daydream”. This song is from his album “Acoustic Love”, released in 2010 under Warner Music. Joonie’s smooth vocals, combined with elegant acoustic guitar and genuine lyrics, transport you to a serene space. A true love letter to R&B!

6. “Love Inside” by BJ The Chicago Kid

Now we’ve got “Love Inside” by BJ The Chicago Kid – a romantic rollercoaster! Featured on his 2016 album “In My Mind” released under Motown Records, this track is a perfect blend of classic soul with a modern twist. His expressive voice dances over the rhythm, making it impossible not to groove.

7. “Cupid” by 112

We’ll round off this playlist with the timeless “Cupid” by 112. This melodious track, released in 1996, is from their self-titled album under Bad Boy and Arista Records. With its gentle beats, harmonious vocals, and heartfelt lyrics, “Cupid” is a quintessential R&B love song that will never age.

Fun Facts: Best Underrated R&B Songs

“All I Do” by Cleptomaniacs feat. Bryan Chambers

Stevie Wonder Connection

“All I Do” is actually a rendition of a Stevie Wonder classic. Stevie’s version, from his 1980 album “Hotter than July,” is equally amazing but the Cleptomaniacs took it to another level with their club-friendly beat. The Cleptomaniacs version, though not as mainstream, has been a staple in many DJs’ setlists since its release.

“Gettin’ In The Way” by Jill Scott

Philly Soul

Jill Scott’s “Gettin’ In The Way” was a pivotal track that launched her career and showcased the rich Philly soul sound. Philadelphia has been home to a great soul music scene and Jill Scott is among the artists who put the Neo-Soul Philly sound on the map in the early 2000s.

“Sure Thing” by Miguel

Chart Climber

“Sure Thing” holds the record for the longest climb to the number one spot on Billboard’s R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay chart. It took 23 weeks to reach the peak, which is a testament to how the song grew on listeners over time. It became one of Miguel’s signature songs and showed his staying power as an artist.

“Coffee” by Marc E. Bassy

Multi-talent Man

Marc E. Bassy, whose real name is Marc Griffin, was initially part of the pop band 2AM Club before going solo. “Coffee” showcases his multifaceted talent as not just a singer, but also a songwriter. His knack for blending genres is on full display in this track, combining R&B, pop, and indie sounds.

“Daydream” by Joonie

Self-Made Musician

What’s remarkable about Joonie, the mastermind behind “Daydream”, is that he’s entirely self-taught. Joonie never had formal training; he learned to play instruments and sing through sheer passion and practice. He played all the instruments and wrote all the songs on his album “Acoustic Love”.

“Love Inside” by BJ The Chicago Kid

Grammy Nods

“Love Inside” is part of BJ The Chicago Kid’s album “In My Mind”, which earned him three Grammy nominations in 2017 – Best R&B Album, Best R&B Performance for “Turnin’ Me Up,” and Best Traditional R&B Performance for “Woman’s World”. While “Love Inside” itself wasn’t nominated, it’s a standout track in an acclaimed album.

“Cupid” by 112

Bad Boy Records Debut

“Cupid” was one of the first hits for 112 and played a big role in establishing them in the R&B world. It’s also notable for being part of the Bad Boy Records label, which was founded by Sean Combs (P. Diddy). The label was influential in the 1990s and early 2000s, and “Cupid” remains one of the enduring classics from that era.

Thanks for reading.

TBone