It’s New Music Friday, which means Rated R&B is bringing you the most essential releases. From the traditional R&B that purists love to the boundary-pushing sounds of the alt-R&B scene, this week’s roundup keeps its pulse on the essence of R&B. Dive into it below.
Bruno Mars — The Romantic
Bruno Mars‘ fourth album, The Romantic, blends R&B and soul with Latin influences of bolero and salsa. He co-produced all nine tracks with frequent collaborator D’Mile, with additional songwriting from James Fauntleroy, Philip Lawrence, and Brody Brown. Among the album’s highlights is the pleading ballad “Why You Wanna Fight.”
Elmiene — “Honour / I Want In”
As Elmiene prepares to release his debut album, Sounds For Someone, on March 27, the British soul singer shares “Honour” and the bonus track “I Want In.” On the former, he wrestles with insecurity and asks his lover for support, while the latter finds him ready to commit to their mind, body and soul — even if things aren’t official yet.
Mýa, 21 Savage — “ASAP (Remix)”
Rapper 21 Savage joins Mýa on her “ASAP (Remix),” where he delivers smooth bars to match the song’s energy. It will appear on her upcoming 10th album, Retrospect, which drops May 1.
Gnarls Barkley — “Pictures”
Gnarls Barkley, the duo consisting of CeeLo Green and Danger Mouse, has returned with “Pictures.” The track hears Green reminiscing about his formative years. It will appear on their third and final album, Atlanta, which drops March 6.
Devon Gilfillian – “Hold On (Hourglass)”
Progressive soul singer Devon Gilfillian confronts a fleeting romance on his new single “Hold On (Hourglass).” It’s the first offering from his third album, Time Will Tell, out June 26.
GoGo Morrow – SET
GoGo Morrow‘s new EP SET, the second installment of a trilogy, is her most confident yet. Executive produced by Harmony Samuels, the project includes the singles “Touch Me” and “Hard To Love.” Regarding the EP, she notes, “SET is my anthem of emotional independence—the soundtrack to my liberation from heartbreak. It’s me rejecting love’s illusions: unapologetic, untouchable, and fully in control of my own story.”
Raye – “Nightingale Lane”
On “Nightingale Lane,” Raye recalls the greatest heartbreak she’s ever known. It’s the follow-up to her hit single “Where Is My Husband!” from her upcoming sophomore LP, This Music May Contain Hope.
Naomi Sharon — “Miss That”
OVO Sound artist Naomi Sharon‘s new single “Miss That” pulsates with a groove bound to inspire body rolls. The Jordan Ullman production is the Dutch-Caribbean singer’s first release since her EP The Only Love We Know, released last spring.
Saint Harison — “Glass Houses”
On “Glass Houses,” Saint Harison chronicles the cycle of hurt people hurting people, admitting that lashing out won’t actually make him feel any better. “And I been hurtin’ lately / Throwin’ stones that I can’t take / And I could really hurt you baby / But hurtin’ you won’t make me okay,” he sings.
Otis Kane — “Let Me Love You”
Otis Kane‘s “Let Me Love You” is another addition to his growing collection of feel-good jams. “Let me hold you to the morning / Let me love you till the sun goes down,” he sings.
The ARTi$t — “Shut It Down”
The ARTi$t‘s “Shut It Down” was made strictly for the bedroom. The pillowy jam follows her 2025 singles. “On The Floor” and “I Need You.”
Larrenwong – “Worth Your Time”
On “Worth Your Time,” Larrenwong is ready to pursue a love interest but wants to ensure the feeling is mutual. “Do you believe in love at first sight? / Do you listen to your heart when everything feels right? / I need to know before the end of the night / If you say yes, we can make it with your time,” he croons.
