Relive the 90s Through These 20 Classic R&B Hits

The 1990s was a transformative decade for R&B music, marked by the emergence of new artists, unforgettable melodies, and soulful ballads.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering these classics for the first time, these iconic R&B tunes offer a nostalgic journey back to a time when rhythm and blues were at their peak. 

1. “End of the Road” – Boyz II Men (1992)

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Image Credit: Debby Wong/Shutterstock

Album: Cooleyhighharmony

This track became a massive hit and is known for its emotional depth and harmonious vocals. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 for 13 weeks, a record at the time.

2. “Waterfalls” – TLC (1994)

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Image Credit: everett225/Deposit Photos

Album: CrazySexyCool

A socially conscious song with a memorable music video. It addresses issues like drug addiction and unsafe sex, and it’s one of TLC’s most enduring hits.

3. “I Will Always Love You” – Whitney Houston (1992)

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Image Credit: Asterio Tecson, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Album: The Bodyguard: Original Soundtrack Album

Originally by Dolly Parton, Houston’s version became an international sensation. Her powerful vocals and emotional delivery made it one of her signature songs.

4. “Un-Break My Heart” – Toni Braxton (1996)

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Image Credit: everett225/Deposit Photos

Album: Secrets

Known for its dramatic and soulful style, this ballad showcases Braxton’s rich, deep voice and became one of her most popular songs.

5. “My, My, My” – Johnny Gill (1990)

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Image Credit: Randy Miramontez/Shutterstock

Album: Johnny Gill

This smooth, sensual track features Gill’s impressive vocal range and became a staple of early ’90s R&B.

6. “No Scrubs” – TLC (1999)

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Image Credit: Everett Collection/Shutterstock

Album: FanMail

A feminist anthem of the late ’90s, it critiques men who don’t treat women well. The song’s catchy hook and empowering lyrics made it a hit.

7. “Remember the Time” – Michael Jackson (1992)

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Image Credit: Larry Davis, Los Angeles Times, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Album: Dangerous

Known for its infectious rhythm and memorable video, this song is a standout track from Jackson’s Dangerous album and remains a fan favorite.

8. “Can We Talk” – Tevin Campbell (1993)

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Image Credit: Featureflash Photo Agency/Shutterstock

Album: I’m Ready

A smooth, romantic ballad that highlights Campbell’s impressive vocal ability. It’s often praised for its melody and heartfelt lyrics.

9. “Bump N’ Grind” – R. Kelly (1994)

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Image Credit: s_bukley/Deposit Photos

Album: 12 Play

This song is known for its seductive vibe and smooth production. It was a major hit and contributed to R. Kelly’s rise as a prominent R&B artist.

10. “Let’s Stay Together” – Al Green (1990)

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Image Credit: s_bukley/Deposit Photos

Album: The Very Best of Al Green

Though originally from the 1970s, this re-released track saw renewed popularity in the ’90s. Its timeless appeal and Green’s soulful performance continue to resonate with listeners.

11. “All My Life” – K-Ci & JoJo (1997)

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Image Credit: Featureflash Photo Agency/Shutterstock

Album: Love Always

A heartfelt ballad featuring the signature harmonies of K-Ci & JoJo. The song became a wedding favorite and showcased the duo’s emotional delivery and smooth style.

12. “If I Ever Fall in Love” – Shai (1992)

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Image Credit: Gallks/Shutterstock

Album: Shai

This debut single features a memorable melody and smooth vocal performance. It became a major hit and established Shai as a key player in early ’90s R&B.

13. “Any Time, Any Place” – Janet Jackson (1993)

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Image Credit: everett225/Deposit Photos

Album: janet.

Known for its sensual lyrics and Jackson’s sultry delivery, this track exemplifies her ability to blend pop and R&B seamlessly.

14. “Can You Handle It?” – Usher (1997)

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Image Credit: headlinephotos/Deposit Photos

Album: My Way

This smooth, romantic song highlights Usher’s vocal prowess and became a classic R&B track from his breakthrough album.

15. “I Don’t Want to Be Alone” – 112 (1996)

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Image Credit: Jamie Lamor Thompson/Shutterstock

Album: 112

Featuring a blend of harmonies and smooth grooves, this song exemplifies 112’s signature style and contributed to their success in the ’90s R&B scene.

16. “Sweet Lady” – Tyrese (1998)

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Image Credit: YAY_Images/Deposit Photos

Album: Tyrese

Tyrese’s debut single is known for its emotional depth and soulful delivery. The song helped launch his career and remains a classic R&B ballad.

17. “I Wanna Be Down” – Brandy (1994)

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Image Credit: s_bukley/Deposit Photos

Album: Brandy

Brandy’s debut single that introduced her distinct voice and style. The song’s catchy hook and relatable lyrics helped it become a staple of ’90s R&B.

18. “Groove Thang” – Zhané (1994)

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Image Credit: Thomas Faivre-Duboz, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Album: Pronounced Jah-Nay

This upbeat track features a catchy hook and smooth grooves, reflecting Zhané’s unique style and contributing to their popularity in the ’90s.

19. “Everytime I Close My Eyes” – Babyface (1997)

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Image Credit: s_bukley/Deposit Photos

Album: The Day

A soulful ballad showcasing Babyface’s smooth vocals and emotional lyrics. The song highlights his songwriting and production talents.

20. “You Make Me Wanna…” – Usher (1997)

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Image Credit: headlinephotos/Deposit Photos

Album: My Way

Another hit from Usher’s My Way, this track is known for its catchy rhythm and Usher’s vocal performance, capturing the essence of late ’90s R&B.

These songs represent a diverse range of R&B styles and themes from the 1990s, showcasing the genre’s depth and influence during that decade.

Martha A. Lavallie
Martha A. Lavallie
Author & Editor | + posts

Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.