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 1 . Shakira - SolteraShakira's "Soltera" sashays onto the scene with pop-reggaetón flair and a celebratory swagger, fully aligned with her recent thematic pivot. The track beams like a neon sign in a Miami nightclub, unapologetically prioritizing self-liberation and the joys of singlehood over tired breakup narratives. The production leans into rhythmic Latin beats, ensuring it pulsates across club floors from Spain to Peru. The accompanying video, set in the raucous LIV Miami, pairs Shakira with a glitzy ensemble including Anitta and Danna Paola, cementing the song's festival-like vibe. The final moments, where a chorus chants “Se pasa rico soltera,” give it an anthemic, communal twist, uniting women in a cheeky mantra of empowerment. Charting decently across platforms like Spotify and YouTube, its success shows a broad yet measured resonance among listeners worldwide. Despite its catchy appeal, one might notice a somewhat predictable approach, relying on reggaetón tropes that Shakira has mastered but rarely bends or reinvents here. Still, the track rides high on its energy rather than innovation, serving as a solid, if safe, addition to her expansive catalog. The music video is directed by Jaume de la Iguana
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 2 . GloRilla - I Luv Her (w/ T-Pain)GloRilla's 2024 single "I Luv Her," featuring T-Pain, marks a notable collaboration in her repertoire, blending her sharp delivery with his signature vocal stylings. The track lands at number 70 on the charts, a testament to her expanding presence within contemporary hip-hop. Born Gloria Hallelujah Woods on July 28, 1999, in Memphis, Tennessee, GloRilla's career began in the church choir at just five years old before transitioning into rap, shaped by influences such as Chief Keef. Her breakthrough came with 2022's "F.N.F. (Let's Go)," produced by Hitkidd, positioning her as a rising force in the genre. As the first female artist signed to Yo Gotti's label CMG, GloRilla has graced stages at high-profile events like the 2022 MTV VMAs and boasts Grammy-level recognition. With prior successes like "Tomorrow 2" and "Wanna Be," "I Luv Her" reinforces her chart-topping trajectory while illuminating her dynamic artistry. The music video is directed by Benny Boom
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 3 . Usher - Good GoodUsher's "Good Good," featuring Summer Walker and 21 Savage, blends R&B, Atlanta bounce, and nostalgic 2000s elements under Mel & Mus's production. The song examines the aftermath of a relationship where ex-partners remain amicable. Filmed at Atlanta's Jackson Street Bridge, the video reached the Billboard Hot 100's 25th spot, marking Usher's return to the top 40. Walker and Savage offer perspectives on loyalty and post-relationship respect, presenting a mature take on handling the end of romantic connections. The music video is directed by Warren Fu Featured on the album Coming Home
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 4 . Wale - On Chill (w/ Jeremih)A reflective commentary on romantic complexities, "On Chill" merges Wale's introspective lyricism with Jeremih's smooth vocals. Released in July 2019, the track samples Raphael Saadiq's "Ask of You," lending it a nostalgic R&B essence. It achieved significant chart success, becoming one of Wale's highest-performing singles since 2013. The music video is directed by Daniel CZ Featured on the album Wow... That's Crazy
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 5 . T-Pain - I Like DatA refreshing nod to nostalgia, "I Like Dat" revives the energy of T-Pain's 2007 hit "Buy U a Drank (Shawty Snappin')," reimagined in collaboration with Kehlani. The track, released in May 2021, blends doo-wop stylings with contemporary flair. Set in a Western-inspired music video, T-Pain and Kehlani portray dynamic, entrepreneurial characters, echoing themes of partnership and resilience. A remix featuring rapper Bia expands the track's versatility, underscoring its place in modern R&B. The music video is directed by Christian Breslauer
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 6 . Ciara - How We Roll"How We Roll" emerges as a celebratory anthem of passion and intimacy, with Ciara and Chris Brown delivering a rhythmic ode to connection and spontaneity. Released in August 2023, the track showcases vibrant R&B elements, highlighting moments of freedom and sensuality. Notable for its chart success, the single climbed to the 9th position on the US R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay chart, marking a career milestone for Ciara. A November remix featuring Lil Wayne adds an edgy twist, further cementing its appeal. The music video is directed by Christian Breslauer Featured on the album How We Roll (Versions)
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 7 . Jeremih - Wait On It (w/ Bryson Tiller & Chris Brown)Jeremih's "Wait On It," featuring Bryson Tiller and Chris Brown, unfolds as a sonic narrative of romantic pursuit, underlined by Retro Future and Cássio's smooth production. Released in June 2024 under Late Nights Records, the song marked Jeremih's first major release post-Def Jam exit. The music video vividly portrays a shared past and present connection, with each artist weaving their storylines around a central muse, symbolizing love's enduring complexity. The music video is directed by BenMarc
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 8 . Partynextdoor - No Chill"No Chill" encapsulates a narrative of extravagant romance, weaving themes of luxury and personal introspection. PARTYNEXTDOOR reflects on his interactions with different individuals, ultimately spotlighting his admiration for a singular muse, described as the "star of the show." Lavish symbols such as diamond gifts punctuate the narrative, emphasizing both the depth of his emotions and their consequences on their connection. Released in April 2024, "No Chill" merges modern R&B rhythms with a confessional lyrical approach, revealing the complexity of relationships through its sonic and thematic layers. The music video is directed by Edgar Daniel Featured on the album PND 4
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 9 . Rihanna - Lift Me Up - From Black Panther: Wakanda Forever - Music From And Inspired ByBarbadian singer Rihanna marks her return with "Lift Me Up," released on October 28, 2022, as the lead single from the *Black Panther: Wakanda Forever* soundtrack. This haunting R&B ballad, co-written by Rihanna, Nigerian artist Tems, and director Ryan Coogler, is produced by Swedish composer Ludwig Göransson, who also scores the film. A tribute to Chadwick Boseman, the song encapsulates loss with a tender poignancy, recorded across five countries and peppered with lyrics evoking a comforting embrace. It debuts at number two on the *Billboard* Hot 100, securing nominations at the 95th Academy Awards and the 80th Golden Globe Awards. Winning Best Original Song at the 13th Hollywood Music in Media Awards and Best Song at the 2023 African-American Film Critics Association, it underscores its emotional resonance. The music video, directed by Autumn Durald Arkapaw, juxtaposes Rihanna's serene presence on a desolate beach with film scenes, amplifying the track's reflective tone. Her 95th Academy Awards performance on March 12, 2023, leaves audiences captivated by its heartfelt delivery, a testament to her emotive vocal prowess. The music video is directed by Autumn Durald Arkapaw
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 10 . Jung Kook, Usher - Standing Next To You [Usher Remix]A collaborative R&B piece, this remix of Jung Kook's original "Standing Next to You" features Usher, blending their vocal strengths into a harmonious dialogue about enduring love. Produced by Cirkut and Andrew Watt, the remix premiered in December 2023, shortly after the track's initial release as part of Jung Kook's album "Golden." The song exudes sentiments of stability and partnership, enhanced by Usher's soulful contribution, solidifying its position as a standout in the evolving landscape of cross-genre collaborations. The music video is directed by Yong Seok Choi Featured on the album Coming Home
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 11 . Tory Lanez, T-Pain - Jerry SprungerA vibrant homage to early 2000s aesthetics, "Jerry Sprunger" integrates the essence of T-Pain's 2005 classic "I'm Sprung," reimagined through Tory Lanez's lens. Released in November 2019, the song juxtaposes modern hip-hop with nostalgic elements, underscored by visual imagery of backyard gatherings and retro fashion. Platinum-certified in the U.S., it serves as a playful nod to cultural icons like Jerry Springer, encapsulating both eras in a cohesive, energetic sound. The music video is directed by Mid Jordan, Tory Lanez Featured on the album Chixtape 5
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 12 . Partynextdoor - R E A L W O M A NCentered on admiration and empowerment, "REAL WOMAN" portrays a narrative of independence and mutual respect within a relationship. Released in March 2024, PARTYNEXTDOOR celebrates the confidence and achievements of his partner while intertwining elements of luxury and personal aspiration. With its rhythmic depth and affirming tone, the track reinforces themes of individuality and connection. The music video is directed by Edgar Daniel Featured on the album PND 4
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 13 . Ne-Yo - U 2 LuvNe-Yo and Jeremih's "U 2 Luv" intertwines retro elements from Mtume's "Juicy Fruit" and Zapp's "Computer Love" into a contemporary R&B framework. Released in May 2020, the track blends themes of intimacy and romance, framed within a roller-skating rink and cozy home setting in its music video. With its classic influences and relatable themes, the single marked a prominent return for Ne-Yo on the charts. The music video is directed by Chad Tennies
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 14 . Joyner Lucas - Fall Slowly (w/ )"Fall Slowly" navigates the turbulent landscape of love, where passion and discord coexist. Joyner Lucas and Ashanti depict a volatile yet deeply connected relationship, captured in raw lyrical exchanges and intimate visuals. Released in September 2020, the song's evocative themes resonate within the framework of hip-hop and R&B storytelling. The music video is directed by Joyner Lucas, Ben Proulx Featured on the album Evolution (ep)
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 15 . 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. The music video is directed by The Aunties Featured on the album The Album
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 16 . Teyana Taylor - MorningTeyana Taylor and Kehlani's "Morning" explores desire and intimate connection through lush R&B, with production by Mixx, Tune Da Rula, and Louis Gold. The Def Jam track's smooth ambiance and sensual lyrics add depth to the artists' portrayals of romantic intensity and connection. The music video is directed by Teyana Taylor Featured on the album The Album
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 17 . Usher, Pheelz - RuinUsher and Pheelz craft a poignant exploration of love and vulnerability in "Ruin," blending R&B with Afrobeat influences. Released in February 2024, the song's emotive narrative unfolds through intimate lyrics and a visually striking video, shot entirely on an iPhone 15 Pro. Themes of home and love intertwine, reflecting both artists' global and personal musical landscapes. The music video is directed by Dave Meyers Featured on the album COMING HOME
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 18 . Leela James - ComplicatedA heartfelt reflection on relational challenges, "Complicated" by Leela James delves into the emotional intricacies of love. Released in February 2021, the song's soulful delivery propelled it to the top of the Adult R&B Airplay charts, cementing James's status as a leading voice in contemporary R&B. The music video is directed by Chris Scholar Featured on the album See Me
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 19 . City Girls - Good Love (w/ Usher)City Girls' "Good Love" enlists Usher for a slick blend of hip-hop energy and throwback R&B. Built on a sample of Lathun's 1997 track "Freak It," the production channels late-'90s nostalgia while keeping the duo's lively delivery at the forefront. The song lands at #70 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking another entry for both acts. Its music video, shot at Atlanta's Cascade Skating Rink, leans into roller-skating choreography with a nod to past eras of club culture. The music video is directed by Daps
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 20 . Snakehips - All My Friends (w/ Tinashe & Chance The Rapper)Blending gospel-tinged harmonies with sleek electronic textures, "All My Friends" channels Snakehips' weariness with the London club scene into a polished lament on party fatigue. Released in October 2015 as a standalone single through Sony Music UK and Columbia Records, the track enlists Tinashe and Chance the Rapper, who each record their parts separately, their verses stitched together via remote production. The video unfolds in one long tracking shot, drifting between snapshots of club-goers' nights unraveling under fluorescent lights, with Tinashe taking quiet center stage. "All My Friends" scores an Ivor Novello Award in 2016 for Best Contemporary Song—ironic for a track about wanting to leave before the afterparty even begins. The music video is directed by Mister Whitmore
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Modest disclaimer: We don’t claim to be exhaustive. It’s possible you won’t find a title you expected to see on this list. Sorry about that — these things happen. ABOUT URBAN CONTEMPORARYOrigins and EvolutionUrban Contemporary originates from Afro-American communities in major U.S. cities, reflecting social, economic, and cultural realities. Emerging in the 1980s, this genre initially targeted young urban Afro-American audiences through radio, blending contemporary R&B, burgeoning hip-hop, and soul to resonate with the realities of life in urban neighborhoods. Lyrical themes often addressed:
Urban Contemporary thus established itself not only as a musical style but also as a mirror of the aspirations and challenges faced by Afro-American working-class communities. Over the decades, especially in the 2020s, the genre transforms to reflect global sociocultural dynamics, integrating influences from Afrobeat, reggaeton, and even K-pop. The rise of streaming platforms expands its reach, breaking geographic and socioeconomic boundaries, with platforms like TikTok amplifying viral tracks, including those from independent or emerging artists. SubgenresUrban Contemporary encompasses a spectrum of subgenres, each with a distinct cultural or aesthetic imprint:
Recurring Themes and Distinctive FeaturesLyrics in Urban Contemporary play a pivotal role in defining the genre’s identity, enabling artists to explore themes that resonate both personally and collectively. Written frequently in the first person, they create a sense of intimacy and relatability.
Producers and LabelsProducers play a key role in shaping the Urban Contemporary sound, often blending traditional and innovative elements. Among many others:
Leading labels in Urban Contemporary include:
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