Michael Jackson must be on the rotation if you and your man love to dance. Everyone loves Gladys Knight’s silky voice. But what are the best R&B love songs of all time?
The R&B music industry has produced Motown legend, Smokey Robinson. There is also James Brown, Frank Ocean, and Marvin Gaye. Your generation might determine which songs are the best in your mind. Many will have a semi-nostalgic single they love. However, others will not believe these to be the best R&B love songs.
When looking for R&B love songs, it is wise to examine music history. Stevie Wonder has had some great music over the decades. Al Green has an unforgettable voice for love songs.
What R&B Song Can I Dedicate to My Husband?
You might wonder how to find the perfect song to express your love for your man. If you want a particular piece on your wedding night, you will wish for a love song that resonates with you. It might be a song from the first music video you watched together. The vital thing to consider is how this song connects your love for each other.
What is the erfect Love Song to Dance to at Your Wedding?
Choosing the right song to dance to on your wedding night can be challenging. You want the song to be one where you both can express your love for each other. To help you in the process, we curated a list.
R&B Music History
Rhythm and blues is commonly known as R&B. The musical genre was developed by Black Americans in the 1940s and continuously refined through the present day. R&B derived from gospel, jazz, folk and traditional blues music and emerged in tandem with rock ‘n’ roll.
Hip Hop’s influence on R&B
Some people enjoy hip-hop more for a good love song. So how do you find the perfect love song for your husband on your wedding day? Obviously, it must be a famous song. But do you both want slow jams or something with more movement? No matter the style, the love song should have tender lyrics.
Music can touch listeners affectionately and sincerely. These genres and topics resonate when artists express their love or devotion. Here are some love songs you can consider:
1 “Why I Love You” by MAJOR
A very strong choice, this song is a song of mutual love and admiration. Love can have two paths in a healthy relationship, and this beautiful and heartfelt song illustrates it.
2 “Halo” by Beyoncé
“Halo” was released in 2009. If you are a devoted member of the Beyhive, then “Halo” is the perfect processional song. It’s a bit ethereal, it’s significant and it’s Beyonce. It is also a great R&B love song for the reception.
3 “Whipped Cream” by Ari Lennox
It’s a beautiful moment when someone finally gets over their previous lover, or maybe it is the perfect moment to bring someone back. The impressive R&B singer talks about how difficult it is to get over your ex. Although the information has never been new to music fans, it is interesting that a few songs from Lennox are direct and a little shy of what she says to the audience. It helps to motivate listeners by confronting things that are hard to admit. If this song is part of your story, make it part of your wedding too!
4 “At Last” by Etta James
“At Last” was written by Mark Gordon and Harry Warren. It was first introduced in 1941 via the film, “Orchestra Wives.” Grammy Award winner and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Etta James took “At Last,” making it her own and her second hit song.
5 “Here and Now” by Luther Vandross
“Here and Now” embodies the sleek vocals of Luther Vandross, is unquestionably authentic and promises everlasting love. The album won the hearts and minds of music fanatics but received numerous awards, including Grammys for best male vocal performance in R&B.
6 “Make It Last Forever” by Keith Sweat
Make it stay forever! That’s the underlying concept behind this famous Keith Sweat song. A resounding ballad by the legendary R&B artist promises to cherish all the love he shares throughout his lifetime.
7 “Crazy in Love” by Beyoncé
“Crazy in Love” was on Beyonce’s debut album in 2003. The incorporates 70’s style funk with elements of soul. The song was critically acclaimed, shooting Beyonce’s career through the roof.
8 “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston
“I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston released in 1975. Whitney Houston’s fourth studio album, “My Love Is Your Love,” is probably the best album for R&B love songs. Dolly Parton originally wrote “I Will Always Love You” as part of her debut album in her solo career. Whitney Houston took Dolly’s music and presented another touching rendition with her soulful voice.
9 “Spend My Life with You” by Eric Benét and Tamia
Singers Eric Benét and Tamia hit all the right notes for R&B love songs. Play this song while walking down the aisle. This romantic R&B song expresses the desire for the classic couple’s life.
10 “Be With You” by Mary J. Blige
Mary J. Blige is an emotional singer and her songs sparkle. This song was immediately successful and earned two Grammy Award nominations, including Best Song of R&B in 2006.
11 “Gonna Love Me” by Teyana Taylor
This song is another great and classic choice, especially for Teyana Taylor fans. This is a great love song for your wedding reception.
12 “My Girl” by The Temptations
“My Girl,” was written by Smokey Robinson and Ronnie White from The Miracles. No matter what music style, everyone loves this song. The Temptations version of this song depicts the a man’s love for his woman.
13 “My Boo” by Alicia Keys and Usher
This Alicia Keys song was released in 2004 with Usher. The signature song tells of how you are taken aback by the experience of falling in love. Alicia Keys’ presents the music masterfully.
14 “On Bended Knee” by Boyz II Men
The sentimental ballad by Boyz II Men brings feel-good vibes. The Grammy-winning artist had a massive hit with “On Bended Knee.” The song’s original release date was in 1994.
15 “Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours” by Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder’s “Uptight” fifth studio album launched his career with songs such as, “I Want My Baby Back,” “Hold Me,” and “Uptight (Everything’s Alright).” But “Signed, Sealed & Delivered I’m Yours” is his signature song, released in 1969.
16 “Love and Happiness” by Al Green
This song’s funky beat alone indicates the seriousness of Al Green’s business. It demonstrates how love can transcend emotions, causing the lovesick to behave eerily distortedly.
18 “Vision of Love” by Mariah Carey
Carey wrote “Vision Of Love” with writing partner Ben Margulies circa December 1988/January 1989 at his small studio in New York while procuring a record deal with label Columbia.
19 “Adorn” by Miguel
Writers liken “Adorn” to Marvin Gaye’s 1982 ballad “Sexual Healing.” Miguel’s inspiration to write the song occurred in a series of dreams he had before writing it. It released as the lead single from his 2012 studio album, “Kaleidoscope.”
20 “When a Man Loves a Woman” by Percy Sledge
The track “When a Man Loves a Woman” is a classic R&B song we love. Andrew Wright and Calvin Lewis wrote it. However, Percy Sled first recorded it in 1966 at Norala Sound Studio.
21 “Always and Forever” by Heatwave
Heatwave originally released this song in 1976. However, songwriter producer Wyclef Jean and Luther Vandross remixed this song later. So if you love this song and prefer another artist’s interpretation, it is a great one to add.
22 “Midnight Train To Georgia” by Gladys Knight and The Pips
Gladys Knight and the Pips’ “Midnight Train to Georgia” is a classic R&B love song. Gladys Knight transformed this captivating balladic into an R&B track. This is one of our most loved songs.
23 “Everything” by Ella Mai Ft. John Legend
Listening to music by two musical legends is a pleasure, regardless that this professional contact does not equate directly to personal life. Ella Mai and John Legend combine their voices to form an unusual combination involving melody that dissolves under the skin and covers bones. Ella Mai’s “Everything” is a masterpiece.
24 “Trip (Remix)” by Jacquees and Ella Mai
It is argued that Jacquees’s feud with Ella Mai contributed to this song’s prominence. In fact, what differentiates “Trip” is the quality of the song. The melodies, rhythms and lyrics combine traditional R&B and jazz. If you love old-school R&B, you will have no problem adding this song to your wedding playlist.
25 “Girls Need Love” by Summer Walker
This song’s truth may only be frightening to people who don’t understand the importance of women’s sexual independence. However, Walker has an open and honest view of her desires and provides the perfect opportunity for herself and others to be soft and sensitive in pursuing their dreams. Walker takes a moment to critique many misogynistic ideologies against women controlling their sexuality.
26 “You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman” by Aretha Franklin
In this late 1960s track, Aretha Franklin discusses the importance of having a partner to fulfill her needs. Queen Soul’s stunning performances strengthen its position as one of music’s best tracks.
27 “Caught Up In the Rapture” by Anita Baker
American R&B/soul singer Anita Baker’s 1986 ballad song, “Caught Up in the Rapture,” is a great R&B song for your man. The song’s release was a follow-up to the single “Sweet Love.” You should consider Anita Baker’s songs if you are looking for a female voice outside the mainstream, like Alicia Keys, Mariah Carey or Beyonce.
28 “Forever My Lady” by Jodeci
“Forever My Lady” caught everyone’s attention back in 1992. This is a great tune if you want to share your love for the 90s.
29 “No Ordinary Love” by Sade
The song explains, ‘I gave you all that I have inside,’ and all he did was take. It’s a very one-sided love affair. The word ‘love’ in the title is the curveball. There is certainly nothing ordinary about it.
30 “Untitled (How Does It Feel?)” by D’Angelo
Reminiscent of the ballads the Minneapolis musician made during the ’80s and early ’90s, there have been debates if this song is an homage to Prince. This song is a great choice for your wedding reception.
31 “That’s The Way Love Goes” by Janet Jackson
This song is from Janet Jackson’s fifth album, “Janet.” The music is relatively slow compared to the previous albums and mixes pop, R&B, funk and soul. Lyrically, “It’s how love ends.” Countless musicians, including Mars and NSYNC, performed the song. Janet Jackson was an inspiration for numerous music artists in the R&B genre.
32 “All My Life” by K-Ci and JoJo
“All My Life” was produced and written for K-Ci & JoJo’s debut studio album, “Love Always,” in 1997. The song was released to airplay in January 1998 and physically released on March 17, 1998, as the third single from the album through MCA Records. Music critics have claimed this as the duo’s most successful song of their career.
33 “I Need Love” by LL Cool J
Two Grammy Awards winner LL Cool J is known for hip-hop songs such as “Mama Said Knock You Out,” “Going Back to Cali,” “I’m Bad,” “The Boomin’ System,” and “Rock the Bells.” However, “I Need Love” has R&B elements in his hip-hop style. His successful solo career is highlighted in this love song.
Check out these other great hits for him & her
What Love Songs are Best for Your Man?
There are numerous choices for your wedding day if you want a female voice. You can go with Alicia Keys, Beyonce, Mariah Carey or Whitney Houston. Alicia Keys’s love songs are a fantastic choice to show your love. Mariah Carey’s voice in “Always Be My Baby” can drive things home for the love you have for your man.
When looking for memorable songs for your special person, you want more than just a good song. “No Ordinary Love” is a great song, but you must ensure the music matches your love for your partner. Commercial success is a great indicator for if the piece might fit, but you need to make sure it is the type of love you have for one another.
While we did not mention Sam Cooke, he, too, is a masterful artist. His song, “Wonderful World” is a classic. What other songs should we have included?
As a multi-passionate creative and a self-proclaimed frequent flyer of weddings, Kiara combines her love for the wedding industry and experience as a professional wedding photographer with her writing abilities to share tips, tricks, and helpful information with couples. She is the owner of Switech Studios a popular wedding photography business. With tons of insider information from behind her camera lens on how to have the best wedding possible, Kiara’s in-depth knowledge is sure to put you on the road to wedding planning success.
