Special bulletin: 2018 was the year of endless R&B album releases.
Since the beginning of the year, hundreds of albums, EPs, and mixtapes have been produced and shared with the intent to reach the masses.
Many of our prized veterans like Mariah Carey, Ne-Yo and Toni Braxton joined the stampede of album releases and certified their rightful place in this digital era. More than anything, newcomers like Ella Mai, SiR, and Jorja Smith stormed through and delivered the goods with impressive debuts.
Now, after careful consideration by Rated R&B’s editorial team — Keithan, Antwane, Edward and Danielle — we are pleased to share our picks for the best R&B albums of 2018.
25. Ne-Yo, Good Man
With seven albums under his belt, Ne-Yo always seems to reinvent himself to give us something innovative. Good Man is a hybrid of the sounds and influences that he has successfully used over the years, merging R&B and the dance-pop worlds. On “Apology,” he digs a bit into his personal life to offer his truth to combat the speculation from situations and relationships he was in, furnishing remorse to anyone he hurt. The album wouldn’t be complete without a standout, quintessential Ne-Yo slow jam; “U Deserve” emits the energy of his early work that true fans would appreciate. For an array of occasions, Good Man is best served as a backdrop to both a night in and a night out, depending on who you’re spending it with. [Danielle]
Standout track: “U Deserve”
24. Teyana Taylor, K.T.S.E.
Slow off the mark, K.T.S.E. (Keep That Same Energy), Teyana Taylor’s sophomore effort, was the last of five albums from Kanye West’s G.O.O.D. Music rollout in June. Taking a page out of Diddy’s production handbook, West relied on bluesy soul samples for the unfinished work that features the harmonizing superstar longing for reassurance in her fresh marriage and her strong desires to keep it intact by any means necessary, and yes, that means even a “3Way.” But apart from her raunchy odes, the brief album, which deserved much more from everyone involved, uncovers triumphant moments that commend Taylor’s will to survive being a product of her harsh environment. [Antwane]
Standout track: “Rose in Harlem”
23. Bridget Kelly, Reality Bites
“I bet you’re probably wonderin’ where the hell I’ve been / Well, let me be the first to say, I’m doin’ fine,” sings Bridget Kelly in the first line on the opening track of her debut album, Reality Bites. Her redemption story doesn’t stop there. The songs on the album are vulnerable (“No Apologies”), as well as admirably obliged (“If I Could”) to the harsh truths of a complex relationship. Even though she asks for pre-heartbreak clarity in tales like “In the Grey,” her fusses fall on deaf ears. But behind every minimalist backdrop and Brandy-inspired run, Kelly coasts through her guarded outlook and uses her anguish to escort her to a place of refuge that has a genuine consideration for her former troubles. [Antwane]
Standout track: “In the Grey”
22. Cautious Clay, Blood Type
On Blood Type, Cautious Clay puts himself under a microscope for a self-examination. The brutally honest project gives listeners a better understanding of the Brooklyn native’s thoughts on being in love. Based on his past experiences, he is no longer interested in commitment. In fact, he struggles with balancing a relationship with pursuing his career (“Joshua Tree”). “I take fear in those who love me,” he sings.
“So I don’t wanna be loved.” Whatever happened in his past relationship has shaken him. “I’m so afraid of intimacy,” he croons on “Stolen Moments.” Although the project speaks heavily about love, Clay does take time to vent about something we know all too well — student loans (“Elsewhere”). Though it’s short in duration, Blood Type is an emotionally packed body of work that offers an insightful introduction to Cautious Clay as an artist. [Keithan]
Standout track: “Joshua Tree”
21. Lucky Daye, I
When mediocrity becomes the norm of the music industry, it stifles the creation of content for famed and budding artists. Fortunately for Lucky Daye, a quaint novice, it doesn’t mean zilch since his coming out project, I, is a stroke of genius. The New Orleans native has an old soul that is splattered across this sinless work. Daye’s elite choices of live instrumentation and hauntingly beautiful production add to the ultramodern grooves and seductively quirky synths on this five-track recording, while his melodic intones adorn his fictional musings of young love, indulgence, and good times. After unearthing everything I has to offer, all that can be said is: Lucky Daye is up next. Mark our word. [Antwane]
Standout track: “Concentrate”
20. Raheem DeVaughn, Decade of a Love King
Raheem DeVaughn has more than 10 years’ worth of love to give. The self-proclaimed Love King professes his affection over a 13-track ode to the adoration and intimacy one should find in a romantic relationship. He’s far from timid when singing about sex, lust, and passion, but he also balances it out when hitting his falsetto on marriage and commitment. There’s nothing wrong with being in love, and DeVaughn keeps it unapologetically authentic while showing those emotions. [Danielle]
Standout track: “That Way Act I”
19. SiR, November
As soon as SiR’s November begins, listeners are magically seated in the fighter jet disguised as his second LP, navigating through the friendly skies and turbulence a relationship brings. The Inglewood, California, native showcases his vocal delivery on the smoky jazz-influenced “War,” where if you listen closely to the breakdown, the TDE singer-songwriter slightly mimics the trumpet playing in the background. From self-medicating after undergoing daily woes on the mellow reggae sampled “D’Evils” to setting the mood and professing his love on the funky ‘70s-tinged “Summer In November,” SiR uses elements of R&B and implements them with modern sounds to create an album that makes fans hopeful for the state of the genre. [Danielle]
Standout track: “War”
18. Masego, Lady Lady
Masego’s eclectic debut, Lady Lady, is lengthy on illuminating black love with its beams of nuance and a sense of righteousness that not only uplifts but reinforces the concept that love is more than fantastical. Through visualizations and lived-through events, this conscious artist sets up a soundtrack to the lives of many women and men who truly appreciate their splendor. Far beyond putting in hard work to unpack the context of love, Lady Lady explores the multiple shades of the three-dimensional figure as he makes all of the pain and power declarations necessary to make a poignant and rewarding introduction. [Edward]
Standout track: “Lady Lady”
17. Marsha Ambrosius, Nyla
After a four-year gap, Marsha Ambrosius finally returned with her third solo album, Nyla, which was named after her daughter. Over a span of 16 songs, Ambrosius — who is now married — takes her listeners on a journey through a relationship. It begins with attraction (“Bottle Fulla Liquor”) before turning into something serious (“I Got It Bad” and “Luh Ya”). Things take a turn toward the latter part of the album, where she explores the downside of love with songs like “Never Be the Same,” “Scorn” and “I’m Moving On.”
What’s interesting to note is half of the album was recorded before Ambrosius met her now-husband, which could mean the end of the album is a reflection on how she used to feel before meeting the man of her dreams. Either way, Nyla is nothing short of amazing. We can always count on Ambrosius to deliver quality R&B records with her sultry vocals. [Keithan]
Standout track: “Flood”
16. Ella Mai, Ella Mai
Releasing a solid album after the unexpected takeoff of an uberly infectious single can sometimes make for mediocre work. This premature perception was impossible for Ella Mai, who had already released three noteworthy EPs. Her eponymous debut of soul-bearing and unapologetic knocks fostered her sweet cadences, catchy hooks, and esteem for throwback-style R&B.
Despite those unserviceable interludes that employed adjectives and adverbs to describe the letters of her full name, Mai made it up with her vulnerability and simplicity. And judging this fantastic sound of newfangled R&B, her follow-up shouldn’t disappoint. [Edward]
Standout track: “Shot Clock”
15. Jacob Banks, Village
“I believe that an artist reflects their tastes, so I made an album that I want to listen to,” said Jacob Banks about his debut, Village. His regard to producing a pleasing body of work starts as soon as the gritty anthology begins with his bluesy ode “Chainsmoking.” His deeply rich voice envelops you and transports you to a nostalgic place where emotion and character cover each note.
Banks’ debut album spans from identity and growth to love and relationships, dripping in heartfelt passion and pain. While the production incorporates syncopated rhythms of reggae and African sounds, the tracks lay against an R&B and soul background with a cinematic flare. Cozy up with your boo or take time to self-reflect with Village as your mood music. [Danielle]
Standout track: “Mexico”
14. Alina Baraz, The Color of You
After a grim three-year hiatus since her masterpiece Urban Flora with Galimantas in 2015, Alina Baraz proved that her success was not the product of collaboration but of her own merits. While her debut project’s production benefited from its earth-altering melodies and languid vibes, The Color of You diverges greatly by grounding the sonic landscape in droning synths and piercing sounds.
This half-hour-long EP of hypnotizing bliss embodies transparency that helps Baraz emote through the wordy verses that populate throughout the nine songs. Whether she’s enlisting her breathy whispers for a duet with Jada on “The One” or lets her silky falsetto roam free on electrifying songs like “Coming To My Senses,” Baraz is an artist who understands the dimensions of her voice. [Edward]
Standout track: “Floating”
13. Victory, The Broken Instrument
In the age of social media, we are programmed to only show the good things in our lives. We retake the same photo a hundred times until we get it right, use various filters, check our following count, and other insignificant things that make us forget about the real world. Emerging singer-songwriter Victory reminds us that it’s okay not to have it all together on her debut album, The Broken Instrument. Released on JAY-Z’s Roc Nation label, Victory uses the metaphoric album as a form of musical therapy to help heal her soul.
By picking up the different pieces from her broken self, she offers positive affirmations to restore hope. Whether it’s finding peace within (“Weatherman”), fighting for equality (“Who I Am”), or searching for long-lasting love (“First Night Together”), The Broken Instrument offers something for everybody. It’s more than just a good R&B/soul album, it’s a resource for anyone who uses music to cope with personal issues. Although the album was highly overlooked this year, it is a timeless and carefully crafted project that could be discovered at any time in the future and still sound relevant. [Keithan]
Standout track: “Broken Instrument”
12. Jorja Smith, Lost & Found
Mature but youthful, Jorja Smith’s debut album covers finding oneself amidst the growing pains of an adolescent romance with the grit and emotion of an old soul. Her poetic, airy vocals lay softly against the dreary, dramatic movie-like production. Even though the album of 12 songs is mainly soft and mellow with a significant instrumental background, there are a number of grime and hip-hop-inspired peaks. By capturing the vulnerability and discovery in heartbreak, Lost & Found takes the listener through bouts of acceptance, uncertainty, and unrequited love. Feel free to be in your feelings from the minute you press play. [Danielle]
Standout track: “Where Did I Go?”
11. Kali Uchis, Isolation
Kali Uchis’ magnificent debut, Isolation, would make an ideal soundtrack for a magic carpet ride in 2018. In just the first 15 seconds of the opening track (“Body Language”), her angelic tone lifts you from the ground and floats you through the clouds for a whimsical excursion. Her dreamy persona and Colombian-American influences enrich the easy-flowing and idealistic narratives of this finely produced LP, while her honeyed voice has a way with hips, moving them sensually, with her lush melodies that delve into pipe dreams that concern immigrants and wretched sentiments over freewheeling canvases. Although Uchis’ first album, which includes big guests like Tyler, The Creator, and Bootsy Collins, is only the beginning of her bright future, she has already done exceptionally well setting herself apart from her colleagues. [Antwane]
Standout track: “Dead to Me”
10. Nao, Saturn
When the planet Saturn is in full orbit, it’s a moment for rebirth and letting go of the things that no longer serve you. That’s just what Nao’s sophomore album sounds like a fresh start in a new direction. Taking a more upbeat and brighter approach than her debut, the layered melodies and whimsical lyrics on Saturn are bound to lift you out of your seat. An Afro-futuristic thread is woven throughout this project but continues to stay true to the essence of the electro-R&B sound we’re familiar with from the east London soul singer. One of the far-out tracks, “Orbit,” sits perfectly in the middle of the album, where she soars through this aurally pleasing song, flexing her higher and lower register with ease. [Danielle]
Standout track: “Orbit”
9. The Internet, Hive Mind
Being in a band isn’t easy, especially dealing with multiple personalities and creative differences. Somehow, The Internet has managed to all be on one accord, and that is more than clear in their fourth studio album, Hive Mind. Their growth from each of their previous efforts, collectively and individually, shines through on this album. Seamlessly, the band fell into a feel-good rhythm, producing a unifying sound, vibe, and energy that flows within each track. We know the gang for taking chances and meshing pulsing experimental sounds with an R&B base, but Hive Mind builds on that while pulling from a groovy, ‘70s inspiration. [Danielle]
Standout track: “La Di Da”
8. H.E.R., I Used to Know Her (Pt. 1 & 2)
Some of the best things in life take time, and in the case of exclusive songstress H.E.R., those words couldn’t be more evident with the delay of her proper debut album. But instead of rushing the release of a first album, she decided to serve us two EPs — I Used to Know Her: The Prelude and I Used to Know Her: Part 2. Each release harkens back to the traditional days of R&B when singers weren’t afraid to serenade their listeners with infectious tunes.
The conviction and rich texture of H.E.R.’s voice is not to be toyed with on either release and songs like “As I Am” embolden beholders to seek out their significant other’s interest are examples of this argument. In Part 2 of her dynamic journey, the mysterious singer shows even more potential by delving deeper into young adult angst. And because of H.E.R.’s honest songwriting, it’s not hard for her to make a breakthrough. In a genre that’s become saturated with watered vocals and melodies, H.E.R. mirrors back to a time in her two works when rhythm and blues valued soul overproduction. [Edward]
Standout tracks: “As I Am” (Prelude) / “Take You There” (Part 2)
7. VanJess, Silk Canvas
Ivana and Jessica Nwokike, together known as VanJess, packed a formidable punch with their synergistic debut album, Silk Canvas. Jess (a subtle but integral player to many of the standout tracks) and Van (a student of shrill vocals legends of the ‘90s) mesh magically together as they delve into unrequited love affairs and share scorned testimonies.
Their good sense of stinging and clever lyrical content and excellent use of Nigerian instruments and subdued 808s make songs like “Control Me” and “Another Lover” become spry. What gives Silk Canvas an extra kick is the sister duo’s strong appreciation for precision that shines through the sequencing. You can tell there’s a beginning, middle, and end to their journey. And if this amount of quality is already available on a first LP outing, it will be scary to see where these ladies are at in their primes. [Edward]
Standout track: “Another Lover”
6. Macy Gray, Ruby
Some may argue that artists make their best music at the height of their careers. Macy Gray, whose lifework spans nearly two decades, unknowingly contends this opinion and releases one of her best works to date this year. Ruby, she calls it, draws on her landmark jazz roots and brings the faulty, charred voice chanteuse up to speed with what’s moving and shaking in today’s ever-changing music landscape.
Her nervy yet sweet collaboration (“Sugar Daddy”) with pop femme fatale Meghan Trainor and Sunday morning hymn (“Buddha”) featuring famed guitarist Gary Clark Jr. are incredibly remarkable on this sparkling work. Even though this regal ledger of progressively composed thrills could have harped on a bruised heart alone, Gray and her in-sync band made it a point to address serious matters, too, including the incredibly large orange elephant in the room. [Antwane]
Standout track: “But He Loves Me”
5. Leon Bridges, Good Thing
When creating timeless music, Leon Bridges considers not only his own admirers but also other audiences. Ditching the retro stylings of baby boomers’ soul music found on his debut, Bridges goes after gusty contemporary sounds on Good Thing, his second LP. Throughout the sonically sundry of solitaries, the stylish crooner maneuvers himself without sounding limited as he sings over horn melodies and funky synths that heighten his rounded vocal range.
On “Bad Bad News,” Bridges makes a soulful anthem about the act of transforming minor casualties into successes, while on ”Beyond,” a fan-favorite, reveals the refined singer at his most bare. His affinity for storytelling, specificity in crafting witty yet relatable lyrics, and admiration for past soul influences on Good Thing continue Bridges on a warm-hearted path of continued praise. [Edward]
Standout track: “Bad Bad News”
4. Chloe x Halle, The Kids Are Alright
Before signing a deal with Beyonce’s Parkwood Entertainment, Chloe x Halle had started developing a fan base from their beautiful song covers on YouTube. Their cover of Beyonce’s “Pretty Hurts,” which was their most popular video and received millions of views, was recorded when they were teenagers (Chloe was 15; Halle was 13). Their debut album, The Kids Are Alright, is a soundtrack for the new generation transitioning into adulthood.
On the title track and “Grown,” Chloe (age 20) and Halle (age 18) highlight Generation Z’s strengths and reassure anyone who is worried that they will be just fine. Even though they are ‘alright,’ the duo doesn’t ignore obstacles that come up in life, such as dealing with heartbreak (“Happy Without Me”), accepting your flaws (“Hi-Lo”), and finding the strength within (“Warrior”). The Kids Are Alright is a cohesive body of work that is filled with angelic harmonies, creative ad-libs, and colorful lyrics. [Keithan]
Standout track: “Galaxy”
3. Blood Orange, Negro Swan
Serving as the fourth album for Dev Hynes as Blood Orange, Negro Swan explores the black experience — specifically in the queer community. Hynes uses his own experience as a black queer man to start a dialogue that isn’t quite too popular in music. Opening the album with “Orlando,” Hynes wastes no time reflecting on being gay bashed as a teenager. “Sixteen-year-old boy / Confused and knowing that he’s different he wants to give in / After school, sucker punched down / Down and out,” he sings on the delicate track.
With spoken word from transgender rights activist Janet Mock sprinkled throughout the album, Negro Swan creates a safe and welcoming space for expression without judgment — regardless of who you are. Even hip-hop mogul Puff Daddy, who is featured on “Hope,” shows his vulnerable side as he ruminates about being afraid of love. While the songs may feel somber in tone, they are far from a dark cloud. If anything, the raw LP brings light to anyone trapped in darkness from feelings of marginalization or rejection. [Keithan]
Standout track: “Jewelry”
2. Janelle Monae, Dirty Computer
Drastic times call for drastic measures, and Janelle Monáe, a black, pansexual, free-thinking musician — in short, led a sociopolitical revolt to detect global viruses on her third album, Dirty Computer. Opting not to perform a hard reset or delete existing universal outrages, the unconventional maverick used this open-hearted disc to challenge the human race to stand up against contemporary social injustices and personal affiliations that continue to show up around the world.
Outcries like, “The devil met with Russia and they just made a deal / We was marching through the street, they were blocking every bill / I’m tired of hoteps tryna tell me how to feel, for real,” organize the radical problems we face in our nation today. And while Monae is preaching to the choir, her sermons are thrilling to rewatch, especially in her nearly hour-long emotional picture that accompanies her riveting work. [Antwane]
Standout track: “I Got The Juice” featuring Pharrell
1. Mariah Carey, Caution
When a music icon is set to drop a new album, there’s always this unspoken pressure and high expectations that get added to the mix. The pressure could range from outperforming past work in sales and or content to simply demonstrating relevance in music. The pressure was no different for Mariah Carey and her 15th album, Caution. Serving as her first full-length project in four years, the legendary singer had some things to prove — whether she was aware or not; luckily, she did.
This no-fillers album is packed with ten solid tracks, all co-penned by Carey, that effectively showcase her many layers as an artist. With features from rappers Slick Rick and Gunna, Carey proved that she is still capable of making concrete R&B/hip-hop tracks. It doesn’t matter if she’s working with a rap legend or one of the newbies, she is able to adapt and deliver. Though she is often referred to as a diva, she knows how to let down her hair for a good time. The opening track “GTFO” and “A No No” perfectly show Carey being playful. On the contrary, “Portrait” is a reminder that she can write the hell out of a soul-pinching ballad. [Keithan]
Standout track: “8th Grade”
