The definitive list of the top 20 R&B albums of 2023. Featuring Cleo Sol, Jalen Ngonda, Daniel Caesar, Kelela and more
As 2023 draws to a close, yet again, the proof is in the pudding: R&B / Soul is thriving! In an ocean of stirring R&B albums, we’ve managed to agree a selection of our favourites. R&B albums that deserve to be recognised for their impact on the canon of music of 2023. Below, we present our list of the top 20 R&B albums of 2023.
Jalen Ngonda – Come Around and Love Me
In an era where modern soul is venturing into uncharted futuristic territory, singer/songwriter Jalen Ngonda stands out by taking the timeless road of retro Soul. His debut album, Come Around and Love Me, dropped in September, and it’s an absolute standout in today’s music landscape for several compelling reasons. From the moment you dive into the album’s nostalgic embrace, you’d swear it was plucked straight from the Motown era. The 11 tracks ooze elite-level bluesy soul that feels like a musical time capsule.
Jalen effortlessly weaves the vivacious spirit of Motown into the soul music of 2023, creating a harmonious blend that’s as natural as breathing. His flawless vocals, coupled with lyrics and tones that enchant the soul, make this album an immersive experience. Come Around and Love Me is a heartfelt homage to the essence of classic R&B / Soul, offering a perfect introduction to the remarkable talent that Jalen Ngonda brings to the musical table. It instantly earned its place as one of the year’s best R&B albums.
Cleo Sol – Gold
Cleo Sol’s musical touch turns everything into pure gold! (pun intended!) In September, the remarkable singer/songwriter gifted us not one, but two albums, with Heaven dropping just two weeks before Gold.
Gold serves as another evolution in Cleo’s sound with more of a gospel inspired take throughout the 10 track project. That said, gospel is only one of the many influences heard on the album. Cleo draws from the likes of Stevie Wonder and Minnie Ripperton with jazz-tinges. Strong themes of love, compassion, spirituality and healing to name but a few are sprinkled throughout.
In a world where artists often clamour for the spotlight and adoration, Cleo Sol stands as a luminous exception to the rule. Her enigmatic presence in the music industry has, paradoxically, only deepened the allure of her artistry. With every note and lyric, she beckons listeners into a unique, intimate space where her music takes center stage.
Despite her elusive nature, Cleo Sol’s music remains a beacon of pure brilliance, steadily carving out its own distinctive niche in the vast tapestry of musical genres. Gold, her latest creation, is yet another glorious chapter in her remarkable journey. In the world of modern soul, Cleo Sol’s place is unassailable, a spot earned through her unwavering commitment to her craft. Overall, Gold is yet another testament to this sentiment.
Kelela – Raven
In 2017, the ethereal songbird Kelela dropped jaws with her mind-blowing album “Take Me Apart.” The magically diverse album was unforgettable then, and has aged like the finest of wines. Fast forward six years, she is back, offering up her latest project Raven.
Kelela isn’t just an artist; she’s an alchemist brewing an entire universe for her audience. Raven is a sonic adventure where every note feels like a brushstroke on a constantly shifting canvas. During her six-year artistic hiatus, Kelela clearly found her muse and has emerged upon another level within her artistry. Something evident on Raven as she delights us to an introspective journey that sparks feelings beyond the ordinary.
Prepare to be whisked away on a rollercoaster of eclectic vibes, as Kelela fearlessly explores musical territories far beyond the confines of modern R&B. Across 15 tracks, Raven beckons you into a captivating, seductive world of sound, refusing to be confined by any one genre. And can we talk vocals?, Kelela effortlessly shifts from soulful harmonies to emotionally charged tones, proving why she’s an artist destined to create timeless art, on her own terms. This album isn’t just here for a moment; it’s here to carve its place in the halls of musical excellence.
Khamari – A Brief Nirvana
In the dynamic realm of 2023’s introspective R&B, Khamari is a shining star, and his debut album, A Brief Nirvana, is a masterpiece that demands attention. Hailing from the heart of Los Angeles, Khamari weaves a tapestry of contemporary soul and deep self-reflection, exploring the rich tapestry of life, from love and success to struggles, in a way that resonates profoundly.
From the intro track Wax Poetic, where Khamari’s lyrical prowess effortlessly dances over a backdrop of velvety piano and rhythmic percussion, inviting you into a warm, enchanting world. A mere glimpse into this 11-track journey reveals Khamari’s evolution from his 2020 EP, “Eldorado,” with his signature blend of simplicity and depth, all wrapped in the embrace of his smooth, laidback vocals.
But what truly sets A Brief Nirvana apart is its mesmerizing production. Each track is a distinct sonic universe, yet the album maintains an unwavering, cohesive allure that keeps you hooked from start to finish. This isn’t just music; it’s a transformative experience that beckons you to dive deeper into the soulful world of Khamari.
Madison Ryann Ward – A New Thing
Some artists have the knack of simply drawing you in forever just from the tone of the vocals, as is the case with Madison Ryann Ward. The singer/songwriter hailing from Oklahoma, released her debut album A New Thing in April.
Remaining loyal to her gospel roots, Madison effortlessly weaves R&B / Soul into the fabric of her sonic tapestry. Delving into profound themes of faith, love, and personal growth, Madison’s vocals, dripping with richness, and heart-soothing tones, will leave you breathless across the expansive 22-track opus. And yes, you read that right – 22 tracks! In a musical era of bite-sized experiences, Madison defies the norm, delivering a cohesive and fluid album that’s as enduring as a timeless masterpiece.
The production is a captivating dance between minimalism and boldness, a canvas where Madison’s crystal-clear tone and soothing delivery take centre stage. Lyrically, Madison is in her element, skillfully affirming her love for faith with a perfect equilibrium that never teeters into contrivance. It’s a delicate dance, and she’s leading with finesse.
Overall, this album is more than an introduction; it’s a compelling continuation of Madison Ryann Ward’s musical odyssey. Whether you’re a curious newcomer or a devoted fan, brace yourself for an experience that not only draws you in but keeps you immersed in the captivating world of Madison’s artistry.
Jordan Ward – FORWARD
Hailing from the vibrant city of St. Louis, Missouri, Jordan Ward is reshaping the contours of modern R&B in a style uniquely his own. Building on a series of smooth, experimental R&B albums, 2023 marked the highly anticipated debut of his album, FORWARD. True to its name, this album signifies Ward’s directional shift in sound, a promise he undoubtedly fulfils during the 30 minute listen.
FORWARD delivers an immersive voyage through sultry, soulful melodies, indie-inspired and high-energy Hip-Hop infused rhythms. Ward possesses an uncanny ability to entice listeners, seamlessly blending traditional singing with a rap-infused flow that feels warmly inviting rather than imposed. The album’s diverse range not only elevates its depth but also ensures its lasting replay value. Take, for instance, the lead single ‘White Crocs,’ a mesmerising fusion of 2000s HipHop-infused R&B production intertwined with Ward’s infectious vocals. A further example to the album’s captivating diversity.
Thematic threads of love, raw emotion, and life’s complexities weave seamlessly throughout the album, offering a reflective lens into Ward’s current state of mind. Ultimately, Jordan Ward solidifies his position at the forefront of modern R&B fusion, crafting an album that is both deeply soothing and profoundly heartfelt.
Destin Conrad – SUBMISSIVE
If you’re drawn to the allure of sultry loverboy R&B, Destin Conrad is an artist that demands a spot in your playlist rotation. The Florida native has firmly established himself as an R&B mainstay with a string of album releases under his belt. In 2023, he unveiled his third project in as many years, the tantalizingly titled SUBMISSIVE.
Conrad has a penchant for concise tracklists, a trend that continues with SUBMISSIVE, embodying the ethos of quality over quantity. Across 9 meticulously curated tracks, the project resonates with a seamless blend of smooth, entrancing production. Perfectly complementing Destin’s seductive soundscapes. While rooted in progressive soul, SUBMISSIVE boldly ventures into realms of reggae and jazz, evident on captivating tracks, ‘LOW TIDE’ and ‘LUV N DEVOTION.’
This sonic fusion remains anchored by Conrad’s signature smooth loverboy aesthetic, an unwavering constant throughout the album. However, beneath the surface lies a deeper exploration of love. A theme that Conrad masterfully paints across each track without ever succumbing to redundancy. His secret sauce, if you will. Diverse production and a remarkable vocal versatility that breathes life and distinctiveness into every heartfelt melody, ensuring that each song stands strong in its portrayal of love’s essence.
CARRTOONS – Saturday Night
Mastering multiple instruments is no small achievement. Yet, Ben Carr, the maestro behind CARRTOONS, took it a step further. On his third album Saturday Night, he orchestrated a symphony of sounds, seamlessly weaving them into a captivating and cohesive musical experience.
The album is as fresh as it gets with a fusion of Jazz, modern R&B, Hip-Hop and retro Soul all on display. Features remain in this vein, ranging from artists such as rapper Jay Prince and pianist/singer Reuben James to name a few.
What’s truly fascinating is how, despite this musical potpourri, the album’s curation and sonic aesthetics hit the bullseye. Short instrumental interludes dance gracefully with more elaborate tracks, creating a smooth blend that elevates the entire listening experience. CARRTOONS has truly mastered the art of keeping it eclectic, enjoyable, and oh-so-on-point. Get ready for a musical joyride with huge replay value!
Victoria Monet – JAGUAR II
Victoria Monet has experienced a remarkable ascent in recent years, steadily advancing in her career. Initially occupying a behind-the-scenes role, crafting songs for renowned artists like Ariana Grande, she has since fully embraced the spotlight as a front and center artist.
Arguably having the song of the year with ‘On My Mama’, she released her debut album Jaguar II in August. With her Pop songwriting background the album merges pop with modern soul effortlessly. As expected at this point, lyrically Victoria brings it and then some with the eclectic project speaking on personal experiences of love, romance, life throughout.
Victoria Monet truly is a well rounded artist to say the least. Vocally, she holds her own during the 11 track album. Against features which are of huge note, ranging from Lucky Daye, Buju Banton and notable soul band Earth Wind and Fire.
As we have also come to expect, visuals are treated with the same high level of quality. The lead single, On My Mama being a prime example. The single was an iconic moment of R&B this year with the striking video again illustrating Victoria’s prowess to create visual moments to accompany her brilliant singing/songwriting skills.
On the whole JAGUAR II is Victoria Monet further coming into her own as an artist. Remaining distinct and creating art in her own unique way.
Sampha – Lahai
Sampha made his mark in 2017 with the release of his debut album, Process. On Process, Sampha captured the grief of losing both his parents to cancer. 6 years later, he returns with Lahai, another sonic masterpiece, reflecting the more joyful space in life he’s now in.
While on hiatus from releasing an album, Sampha has not only collaborated with the likes of Drake, Kendrick Lamar, Solange and Kanye West. He’s also lived. In 2020, he became a father with his longtime partner. On tracks like Suspended, he sings of the joy of fatherhood. Thematically, the album packs a lot in, with Sampha’s signature introspection on life, love and fatherhood. The album’s peaks are the moments where his joy bubbles over, including Only, Evidence and aforementioned Suspended.
On Lahai, Sampha has refined his best tools. His distinct tenor tone and poignant falsetto are expertly applied to some of the best vocal production we heard all year. His ability to bring piano-led gospel together with contemporary R&B and synth-heavy electronic influences. Lahai is a gift to R&B lovers of alternative music. If you’re looking for music that will expand your musical ear, take you places you don’t see coming. This is the album for you. Among the R&B albums 2023 had to offer, Lahai stands proudly tall.
Leon Thomas – Electric Dusk
Since catapulting into Hollywood as an actor in 2010, Leon Thomas has embarked on an extraordinary journey from songwriter to stand alone artist. Collaborating with heavyweights like Ariana Grande, Drake, Toni Braxton, SZA, and Giveon, his songwriting prowess has imprinted itself on some of the most electrifying hits of recent times.
His EP ‘Genesis’ in 2018 offered a glimpse of Leon’s standalone potential, leaving us craving more. Fast-forward to 2023, saw the release of his debut album, Electric Dusk. This 12-track, 40-minute masterpiece isn’t just a collection of songs; it’s a tapestry woven with tales of love in all its complexities. The lead single ‘Breaking Point,’ sets the tone of what to expect with Leon delivering authentic R&B/Soul. Seamlessly blending the essence of past generations with contemporary vibes.
Yet, it’s the vivid imagery that resonates most profoundly. Tracks like ‘Treasure in the Hills,’ and ‘Crash & Burn’ showcase his mastery in portraying various facets of love. Beyond love’s spectrum, moments of introspection add depth to the album emphasizing the profound notion that timing is crucial.
Accompanying Thomas’s soul-stirring narratives is a lush, soulful production that acts as the perfect canvas for his captivating storytelling. Electric Dusk heralds the arrival of an emerging R&B force ready to reshape the genre’s landscape. A skilled songwriter, coupled with an irresistibly soulful aesthetic. Electric Dusk unequivocally answers the much debated ‘Is R&B dead?’ notion leaving no stone unturned in the process.
Amaarae – Fountain Baby
Embarking on the heels of her sensational debut album, ‘The Angel You Don’t Know,’ in 2020, the multitalented singer/songwriter Amaarae makes a triumphant return with her second masterpiece, ‘Fountain Baby.’ Known for her boundary-breaking approach, this album is a mesmerizing blend of Pop, Afrobeats, and R&B that ignites an electrifying and dynamic auditory adventure across 14 sensational tracks.
Yet, Amaarae’s artistry transcends mere musical fusion. It’s her infectious vibrancy and unwavering confidence that permeate every note and lyric on the album, creating a true standout immersive experience. From the pulsating beats of ‘Princess Going Digital’ to the soulful cadence of the lead single, ‘Reckless & Sweet,’ she effortlessly navigates a spectrum of tempos, showcasing her ability to captivate without compromising the album’s cohesive essence.
In her own right, Amaarae has become a trailblazing force in Afro-Pop, a fact unmistakably evident throughout the album’s entirety.
Alex Isley & Terrace Martin – I Left My Heart In Ladera
Alex Isley has described her collab album with producer / artist, Terrace Martin as built with “intention and love”. And does that come through! This is one of the most beautiful R&B albums of the year. Sitting in the beautiful space between funk and Neo-Soul with jazz-tinged instrumentation, this is a wonderful, upbeat journey for the lovers.
In 2023, it’s great to hear an R&B album with true love songs. The opening track and lead single, Paradise, is a modern remake of Sade’s iconic track with the same name. The instrumentation on I Left My Heart in Ladera is bass-heavy and luxurious with strong rhythms that make even the slower tempo tracks like 2 Step In the Living Room dance-floor ready.
Terrace Martin and Alex Isley come together immaculately on this one. A must-hear for R&B lovers that like music that draws from its soulful roots.
Daniel Caesar – Never Enough
In the wake of his acclaimed R&B albums “Freudian” (2017) and “Case Study 01” (2019), Daniel Caesar unveiled his third full-length album, “Never Enough,” in April. This latest release showcases Caesar’s most daring experimentation yet, weaving chill vibes throughout most of the tracks with climactic moments. It’s an exciting shift for an artist evolving into their third album phase, maintaining Caesar’s vocal authenticity while exploring refreshing sonic vulnerabilities.
Despite a mostly laid back feel, the album takes a more up-tempo turn at its midpoint, notably on the track ‘Homiesexual’ featuring Ty Dolla $ign. This catchy, conventional R&B tune delves into the complexities of love lost. Another highlight is the rock-infused Shot my Baby. Thematically, Never Enough ironically lives up to its title, offering a rich tapestry of introspection, inner emotions intertwined with love and relationships. While diverse in its exploration, the album manages to retain a cohesive essence.
Overall, Caesar’s musical landscape in Never Enough is a wondrous exploration of vibes. Offering a blend of contemplative narratives and soothingly chill beats that captivate listeners from start to finish. One of the year’s most slept on R&B albums.
rum.gold – U Street Anthology
rum.gold skillfully captures the dual perspectives of Washington D.C. on his album U Street Anthology. Contrasting tourist views with the untold stories of the city’s overlooked inhabitants, the 40 minute listen is truly riveting. Through a blend of R&B, soul, jazz, and electronic elements, he paints chapters of his life, reflecting vulnerability and the struggles of his upbringing.
His subtly soft, angelic vocals beautifully convey his emotions, portraying both trauma and resilience, rum.gold’s album isn’t just about hardship. It embraces romance, optimism, and dreams, presenting a subtle yet impactful sound that reshapes perceptions of the city as a repository of organic, untold tales. Overall, rum.gold’s storytelling prowess and ability to evoke emotions through his music highlight his artistic depth and the compelling power of his storytelling. One of the year’s standout R&B albums.
Sipho – Prayers & Paranoia
Every now and then an artist comes your way and just euphorically takes your breath away.
As is the case here on Prayers & Paranoia, the debut album by SIPHO. The album is a walk into the majestic world of SIPHO, where powerful vocals and thunderously captivating production align.
This album is a breathtaking masterpiece, showcasing the range and depth of its creator. Blending genres into a unique sonic experience, each track resonates with haunting strings, ethereal vocals, and colossal percussion.
From the sharp, emotive rock of ‘THE CHEMICALS’ to the hypnotic allure of ‘SOBER’, SIPHO merges with raw emotion with seamless musicality. The album delves into themes of ego, vulnerability, and self-discovery, inviting listeners to see fragments of themselves within its universal yet intimate storytelling. Added to this, are themes of enthused upliftment, buoyed by SIPHO’s soulful voice. This debut album solidifies SIPHO as a standout voice in today’s landscape, wielding both dynamism and emotional resonance with unparalleled intensity.
Naomi Sharon – Obsidian
With her debut album, Obsidian, Naomi Sharon makes it clear that she is one to watch. A debut entry is rarely as sumptuous. Obsidian is rich, whilst being sparse in how it employs sound. Using tenderness and sonic space to create sombre emotive soundscapes.
Naomi Sharon’s influences on Obsidian are plain to see. In a time where Sade is much referenced, Sharon deftly steps into the role of Sade’s musical daughter. Her voice has a similar smokey texture. But her songs are even more reminiscent of the quiet storm R&B icon, yet feel very contemporary. If Sade made music in this decade, Naomi Sharon is what it would sound like.
Across 13 tracks and 41 mins, Sharon flexes her songwriting prowess across a range of styles. Standouts are Definition of Love, Another Life, Hills and Regardless. Easily one of the year’s best debut R&B albums.
Berhana – Amén (The Nomad’s Dream)
Berhana is an artist that has always creatively pushed the envelope in recent years. Amén (The Nomad’s Dream) his second full length album sees Berhana at his explorative best.
The album takes listeners on a profound journey through the intricacies of love and identity. Drawing inspiration from his Ethiopian heritage, the album beautifully intertwines traditional East African musical elements with Berhana’s signature blend of soulful storytelling and innovative future-soul compositions.
Each track serves as a poignant chapter in a personal diary, where Berhana skillfully weaves together emotive narratives that resonate with the universal themes of love and self-discovery. The infusion of traditional East African instrumentation adds depth and richness to the music, creating a captivating fusion that transcends boundaries.
With ‘Amén’, Berhana not only showcases his musical versatility but also invites listeners into a world where cultural roots merge seamlessly with contemporary soundscapes. Amén (The Nomad’s Dream) stands testament to his artistic evolution. Offering a heartfelt exploration of emotions and heritage that captivates and resonates deeply with each listen.
Maeta – When I Hear Your Name
For any artist, a debut album carries a weighty significance in the world of artists. It’s a moment laden with both the pressure to deliver as well as the opportunity to breathe life into the myriad stories accumulated throughout their musical journey. Maeta, however, is one of those rare talents who seems to effortlessly navigate this transformative juncture.
Enter When I Hear Your Name. A contemporary R&B gift that delves into introspection, romance, relationships, and the ever-relatable pursuit of love. This album has something for everyone, whether you’re currently in the throes of passion, navigating the complexities of love, or simply revelling in the joy of newfound romance. Maeta’s vocal prowess, versatile and rich, takes centre stage throughout the 40-minute listen. Yet, it’s the heartfelt, soul-stirring lyrics that infuse the project with enduring replay value.
One could think that a debut album with contributions from luminaries like KAYTRANADA, Pharrell, Lucky Daye, Ambré and Ty Dolla $ign could potentially overshadow a newcomer’s individuality. Although, in Maeta’s case, this star-studded collaboration only enhances her comforting sound and diverse direction.
Such as the track, Questions. An up-tempo house-infused track that underscores Maeta’s effortless ability to float over with mesmerising vocals. Or on the close out track Through The Night, a stripped-back soul ballad that underscores where she captivates your attention while striking a profound emotional chord. Without a shadow of a doubt, When I Hear Your Name hits everything you could ask for a debut R&B album and Maeta has certainly asserted her place within the ever evolving cohort of fresh new artists within R&B.
Lizzie Berchie – Am I An Adult Yet?
After a strong entry to the scene in 2022, Lizzie Berchie, the Neo-Soul sweetheart from Newham, London returns. Standing firm in her signature Neo-Soul sound, her sophomore project Am I An Adult Yet? is a reflection on coming of age in your 20s. Spanning love, friendships, childhood and more, this ambitious project more than meets its mark.
Berchie’s honey-dipped vocals are paired with rich instrumentation for a 2023 take on the sounds of Erykah Badu and Jill Scott. Plus a touch of the healing reflectiveness and bosa nova touch of Cleo Sol.
