Most Famous 2020s Alternative R&B from the Last 60 Days, updated on Jan 8,2025
|
 |
 1 . Sevdaliza - Alibi (w/ Pabllo Vittar & Yseult)""Alibi"" intertwines the voices of Sevdaliza, Pabllo Vittar, and Yseult, merging English, Portuguese, and French. Produced by Sevdaliza and Mathias Janmaat, it samples ""Rosa"" by Totó la Momposina, a Colombian hit rooted in Carnival tradition. With baile funk and reggaeton influences, the song weaves themes of feminine resilience and empowerment. The track quickly soared in popularity, reaching over 35 million streams in weeks and placing Pabllo Vittar as the second drag queen on the Billboard Hot 100. Genres : Pop, R&B, Electronic,alternative r&b, escape room, persian electronic, dance pop, funk carioca, funk pop, pop lgbtq+ brasileira, pop nacional, french pop, nouvelle chanson francaise, The music video is directed by Fernando Nogari
|
|
|
 2 . Sevdaliza - No Me Cansare (w/ Karol G)"No Me Cansaré" is an electrifying fusion that pairs Sevdaliza's genre-hopping eccentricity with Karol G's unmistakable charisma. The track thrives on a mix of alternative pop aesthetics and Latin rhythms, creating a hypnotic push-and-pull dynamic between the two voices. Beneath its glimmering production lies a narrative rooted in unwavering love and self-determination, resonating with themes of female resilience. Its Brazilian-shot video, directed by Willems Kantine, adds a sun-soaked visual layer that juxtaposes with the song's emotional intensity. Emerging from a shared moment at Rock in Rio for a crowd of 150,000, the collaboration feels as spontaneous as it is strategic. While Sevdaliza's intricate arrangements offer emotional texture, Karol G injects an anthemic quality that ensures it sticks to the memory. The production credits—Sevdaliza, Mathias Janmaat, and Frankie Scoca—layer lush beats with a deliberate rawness, avoiding over-polish. It challenges typical genre boundaries without veering into the abstract, striking a balance between experimentation and accessibility. Genres : R&B, Electronic, Latin,alternative r&b, persian electronic, reggaeton, reggaeton colombiano, urbano latino The music video is directed by ILLEMSKANTIN
|
|
|
 3 . Tinashe - NastyTinashe's "Nasty" channels her alter ego “Nasty Nashe” through suggestive lyrics over a minimalistic R&B beat, produced by Zack Sekoff and Ricky Reed. Inspired by a custom necklace she made, the song blends singing and rap as Tinashe seeks an equally bold partner. Viral on TikTok, it gained traction after a user's dance video was shared widely. The desert-themed music video, directed by Jojo Gomez, portrays Tinashe as a futuristic figure pursued by robots, enhancing the song's audacious energy. Genres : R&B, Pop, Electronic, Hip Hop,alternative r&b, dance pop, metropopolis, pop, r&b, urban contemporary The music video is directed by Jonah Haber Featured on the album Quantum Baby
|
|
|
 4 . Coldplay, Elyanna, Little Simz, Burna Boy, Tini - We PrayColdplay's collaboration with Elyanna, Little Simz, Burna Boy, and Tini spans Glastonbury premieres and Croke Park debuts. Produced across multiple languages, this 2024 anthem of hope captures diverse cultural voices under Chris Martin's creative vision. Genres : R&B, World/Traditional, Pop, Hip Hop, Rock, Latin,permanent wave, pop, alternative r&b, escape room, trap queen, afrobeats, dancehall, nigerian hip hop, nigerian pop, palestinian pop, latin pop, latin viral pop, pop argentino
|
|
|
 5 . Katy Perry - I'M His, He'S Mine (w/ Doechii)Katy Perry and Doechii infuse dance-pop with hip-hop flair, sampling Crystal Waters' "Gypsy Woman." Skydiving visuals and street-chic aesthetics in Barcelona amplify its exploration of dynamic identity, with Perry's VMAs performance showcasing this captivating collaboration. Genres : R&B, Pop,pop, alternative r&b The music video is directed by TORSO Featured on the album 143
|
|
|
 6 . Mariah The Scientist - From A WomanMariah The Scientist's "From A Woman" forms a lyrical pair with "From A Man" by Young Thug. Through introspective lyrics, Mariah explores emotional independence and self-assurance, addressing vulnerability and the complexities of love from a female perspective. The song's haunting melody and candid lyrics draw listeners into Mariah's world of introspection and resilience. Genres : R&B,alternative r&b The music video is directed by LEFF Featured on the album To Be Eaten Alive
|
|
|
 7 . Lucky Daye - OverLucky Daye's "Over," produced by D'Mile, samples Musiq Soulchild's "Halfcrazy." The song digs into the anxiety and tension of an on-and-off relationship. The music video, featuring Jordyn Woods, captures the tumultuous nature of such connections. The track, platinum-certified, highlights Daye's vulnerability amidst conflicting emotions of desire and restraint. Genres : R&B,alternative r&b, r&b The music video is directed by Machine Operated Featured on the album Candydrip
|
|
|
 8 . Mariah The Scientist - 2 YouIn "2 You," Mariah the Scientist explores themes of trust and vulnerability, portraying the emotional aftermath of a troubled relationship. Produced with Roark Bailey, the song's lyrics reveal Mariah's regrets and challenges in moving on. The track is characterized by its introspective tone, blending R&B with soulful elements. Genres : R&B,alternative r&b The music video is directed by Edgar Esteves and Jon Primo Featured on the album To Be Eaten Alive
|
|
|
 9 . Ari Lennox - PressureAri Lennox's "Pressure," produced by Jermaine Dupri and Bryan-Michael Cox, samples Shirley Brown's "Blessed Is the Woman." The song merges Motown soul with modern trap elements, with lyrics focusing on self-confidence and living authentically. The music video celebrates disco and soul divas, with a retro vibe reminiscent of icons like Diana Ross and Donna Summer. Certified Gold by the RIAA, "Pressure" became a defining hit in Lennox's career. Genres : R&B,alternative r&b The music video is directed by Chandler Lass. Featured on the album Age/Sex/Location
|
|
|
 10 . Swedish House Mafia - Lioness (w/ Niki & The Dove)Dropping in June 2024, "Lioness" brings together Swedish House Mafia and Niki & The Dove in an electro-pop anthem teased by the trio in live shows. Its extended mixes and lush beats combine their signature sound with Niki & The Dove's ethereal vocals, while remixes by Kevin De Vries and SLVR add fresh twists to this captivating release. Genres : R&B, Pop, Hip Hop, Electronic, Latin,alternative r&b, persian electronic, dance pop, funk carioca, funk pop, pop lgbtq+ brasileira, pop nacional, french pop, r&b francais The music video is directed by Joshua Teplitz
|
|
|
 11 . Ari Lennox - Shea Butter Baby (w/ J. Cole)"Shea Butter Baby" by Ari Lennox, featuring J. Cole, combines neo-soul and R&B in a track featured on the Creed II soundtrack. Produced by Elite and Shroom, the song's lyrics explore themes of intimacy and passion, with shea butter symbolizing the sensual connection between lovers. The music video, set against a moody backdrop, mirrors the song's warm and intimate tone. Genres : R&B, Hip Hop,alternative r&b, conscious hip hop, hip hop, north carolina hip hop, rap The music video is directed by Bennett Johnson Featured on the album Shea Butter Baby
|
|
|
 12 . Victoria Monét - AlrightVictoria Monét's "Alright," produced by KAYTRANADA, taps into themes of sexual freedom and female empowerment. Monét's lyrics depict her as a “bad girl” breaking stereotypes. The song channels early 2000s icons, with a music video choreographed by Sean Bankhead and nodding to visuals from Missy Elliott, Janet Jackson, and Britney Spears. Through bold lyrics and a vibrant beat, "Alright" solidifies Monét's liberated persona. Genres : R&B,alternative r&b, r&b The music video is directed by scott cunningham Featured on the album Jaguar II
|
|
|
 13 . Teyana Taylor - Bare Wit MeTeyana Taylor's "Bare Wit Me" pays homage to the 1930s aesthetic, with a video inspired by Harlem Nights. Produced by Bizness Boi, Cardiak, and Ninety Four, the song combines R&B and soul with retro funk. The storyline follows Taylor through a crime drama narrative, where she takes on a masculine character in a zoot suit, adding a unique, stylized flair to the song's themes of trust and romantic indecision. Genres : R&B, Pop, Hip Hop,alternative r&b, hip pop, r&b, urban contemporary The music video is directed by The Aunties Featured on the album The Album
|
|
|
 14 . Amaarae - Angels In TibetAmaarae's "Angels in Tibet," produced by a team including Kyu Steed and Cracker Mallo, blends hip-hop, electronic, and R&B elements, exploring themes of luxury, desire, and liberation. The song's visuals, shot in an old Los Angeles theater, evoke a mystical and cinematic feel, encapsulating Amaarae's luxurious aesthetic. Genres : R&B, World/Traditional, Pop,afro r&b, afrobeats, alternative r&b, ghanaian alternative, ghanaian pop The music video is directed by yavez anthonio Featured on the album Fountain Baby
|
|
|
 15 . Sir - John RedcornSiR's "John Redcorn" references a character from King of the Hill to metaphorically explore themes of unrequited love. Produced by Kal Banx and Jeff "Gitty" Gitelman, the song's smooth R&B sound highlights SiR's lyrical exploration of longing and unattainable desire. The animated video aligns with the character's narrative, portraying SiR's commitment to a one-sided relationship. Genres : R&B, Pop,alternative r&b, la pop The music video is directed by Daniel Russell and Dominic Polcino Featured on the album Chasing Summer
|
|
|
 16 . Young M.A - BigYoung M.A's "BIG," produced by NY Bangers, is a confident anthem in the trap and hip-hop vein. The track's lyrics reflect her openness about her sexuality, wealth, and self-assurance. With a melancholic melody, "BIG" emphasizes Young M.A's journey through success and her uncompromising style. Genres : alternative r&b, lgbtq+ hip hop, nyc rap, rap, trap,alternative r&b, lgbtq+ hip hop, nyc rap, rap, trap The music video is directed by Marc Diamond Featured on the album Herstory in the Making
|
|
|
 17 . Lucky Daye - That'S YouLucky Daye's "That's You," co-produced with Bruno Mars, blends R&B with soul and funk, with lyrics exploring longing and intense connection. D'Mile's production infuses warmth, while Mars's influence adds universal appeal. The song's groove and depth reflect the nuances of passionate relationships. Genres : R&B,alternative r&b, r&b The music video is directed by Nick Walker
|
|
|
 18 . Sir - Hair Down (w/ Kendrick Lamar)"Hair Down" by SiR, featuring Kendrick Lamar, celebrates self-confidence amid life's pressures. Produced by Anthony "Top Dawg" Tiffith, the song's chill R&B and soul influences create a laid-back atmosphere, while Kendrick's verse adds depth, reflecting on fame and authenticity. Filmed in Inglewood, the video highlights SiR's journey from his roots to the music world. Genres : alternative r&b, la pop, conscious hip hop, hip hop, rap, west coast rap,alternative r&b, la pop, conscious hip hop, hip hop, rap, west coast rap The music video is directed by Jack Beger Featured on the album Chasing Summer
|
|
|
 19 . Doechii - Alter Ego (w/ Jt)"Alter Ego" channels an audacious fusion of hip hop and house, branded as "editorial rap," challenging genre conventions with a pulsating Eurodance beat. Doechii swaggers into the spotlight, confronting her inner saboteur with razor-sharp wit, embodying duality in both sound and theme. The track, peppered with Kanye-esque bravado, exudes confidence while dissecting insecurity, a study in contrasts. JT's verses punctuate the song, complementing the brash energy and adding layers to the lyrical interplay. The music video is pure visual spectacle, Doechii tearing through Tampa's wetlands, wielding an Uzi, and dripping in DSquared2 streetwear-meets-swamp chic. Zach Witness' production sculpts a high-energy backdrop, balancing gritty rhymes with escapist euphoria, blurring boundaries effortlessly. This is an anthem of self-possession, brazen and unapologetic, dancing between swaggering self-belief and a nod to personal vulnerability. Genres : R&B,alternative r&b, The music video is directed by Omar Jones
|
|
|
 20 . Sir - Nothing Even Matters"Nothing Even Matters" by SiR stands as a hypnotic homage to love's overwhelming pull. The track draws upon the DNA of Lauryn Hill's classic, spinning it into a contemporary R&B piece laced with raw sentiment. The production leans into mellow rhythms, creating a lush canvas for SiR's velvet vocals to unravel feelings of devotion. It's less a reinvention than a refinement, bridging nostalgia with modern intimacy effortlessly. The accompanying music video underscores the atmosphere, translating the song's quiet intensity into visual poetry without overextending its premise. Released under Top Dawg Entertainment, the single bolsters SiR's discography without bombast, choosing instead to let emotion take the lead. If love songs can be immersive yet understated, this one nails both effortlessly. Genres : R&B, Pop,alternative r&b, la pop The music video is directed by Loris Russier
|
ABOUT ALTERNATIVE R&BAlternative R&B: DefinitionAlternative R&B, often referred to as Alt R&B, is a subgenre of contemporary R&B that emerges in the mid-2000s but gains a distinct identity and dedicated following by the 2020s. Alt R&B reimagines traditional R&B with a deconstructionist approach, steering away from conventional love themes to delve into more personal, introspective territories. Alternative R&B: MusicMusically, Alt R&B stands out with its unconventional and sometimes minimalist style. Ethereal melodies and layered vocal harmonies create a dreamy atmosphere, while rhythms borrow subtly from hip-hop, lending a fluid quality. Beats are often languid, allowing the vocals space to breathe and lending the music an intimate feel. Minimalist instrumentation weaves acoustic and electronic sounds, frequently using analog synthesizers, reverb effects, and richly textured electric guitars. In the 2020s, popular producers like Blake Slatkin, Arca, Mndsgn, and Kaytranada exemplify this hybrid approach, bridging retro and futuristic textures through organic beats and intricate soundscapes, often created with digital audio workstations (DAWs). Alternative R&B: WordsAlt R&B lyrics typically explore personal and introspective themes, addressing emotional challenges, toxic relationships, mental health, alienation, and identity. Unlike traditional R&B, which often celebrates passionate romantic declarations, Alt R&B reveals nuanced and vulnerable personal stories. A memorable excerpt from SZA‘s “Garden (Say It Like Dat)” goes, “Lie to me and tell me that I look good, lie to me, lie to me, oh.” Here, she conveys the desire for approval, even when it’s superficial. Another example is Brent Faiyaz’s “Hard to Love,” which reflects doubts about his capacity for genuine love. These songs evoke complex, often contradictory emotions that resonate deeply with contemporary audiences. Alternative R&B: Key Record LabelsHere is a list of labels known to promote and produce Alt R&B: |
ADJACENT GENRES
|
18.15% / 1.46%
Comments are closed.