Spotify released a brand new Spotify CLASSICS playlist called “The 100 Greatest R&B Songs Of The Streaming Era.” So any song that released on Spotify from January 1, 2015 until now is eligible to be on the list. Also, it’s important to note that this list is NOT based on data but on the music and culture expertise of Spotify editors, so there is a lot of room for scrutiny on why some songs are included and others are not, as well as why some are placed where they are placed. The full list is rather long, and includes everyone from Bruno Mars and Chloe x Halle to Childish Gambino and Snoh Aalegra — so we just have some highlights to share. But without further ado, let’s get into it, I want to hear your thoughts!
Coming in at the top of the list, at number one, is SZA’s “Snooze.” Then comes Frank Ocean with his hit “Pink + White,” followed by Daniel Caesar and H.E.R.’s “Best Part.” Ending the top five, the list has Beyoncé’s “CUFF IT” at number four, and Bryson Tiller’s “Don’t,” at number five. The other entries on the list rounding out the top 10, in order, respectively, include Solange, Summer Walker, Rihanna, Jazmine Sullivan and Chris Brown with a track featuring Drake. Miguel, Victoria Monet, Coco Jones, Ari Lennox, and more, make appearances on the list, as well as mega hit, “Water” by Tyla, which is featured at number 60.
Many of the top artists like SZA, Beyoncé, Chris Brown, Solange and Miguel all have multiple entries, among many other top artists, like Tems and H.E.R. In addition, Internet, Thundercat, Masego, and Kali Uchis all make appearances. To round out the bottom of the list, Libianca’s massive hit “People” comes in at 99. The last song appearing on the list is Mahalia ft. Ella Mai’s “What You Did.”