The top 10 R&B songs of 2024
Jessie Reyez, PartyNextDoor and more released sultry love songs this year
Tender love songs and sultry bedroom jams dominated R&B in 2024, thanks to new tracks by Jessie Reyez, Aqyila and more.
These are the 10 best Canadian R&B songs of the year, as determined by CBC Music's top 100 songs.
10. 'Shake,' pHoenix Pagliacci
This soulful single from pHoenix Pagliacci is supremely enthralling, speaking to the uncertainty and dread many people feel looming overhead. "But I can't shake this dark cloud over me," she sings, explaining her feelings with pure honesty.
9. 'Back for More,' Liza feat. Tobi
This old-school R&B duet from Toronto artists Liza and Tobi is a perfect hit of early aughts nostalgia, as they sing about irresistible attraction. "It's easy for me to let go," Liza sings before adding, "'Cause I know you'll be back for more."
8. 'Body,' Lokre
Leaving hyper independence behind, Lokre flits between soaring high notes and languid, deep tones effortlessly, as she recounts all the ways her love is blossoming and expanding for her new partner. Plus, the throbbing bass line and percussion with a little Caribbean flair give the song a sensual swing.
7. 'Need Nothing,' Katie Tupper
Katie Tupper's voice always greets listeners like the most tender dream, one you want to stay in forever. The dulcet tones of "Need Nothing" are a balm and Tupper is at her best when she's leaning into sweetness. "I'll be here for what it's worth," she states, affirming her love.
6. 'Ridin',' Jessie Reyez feat. Lil Wayne
Highly suggestive lines about having fun in the backseat of a car (and a very detailed verse from rapper Lil Wayne about his erotic preferences) make this a pearl-clutching number not for the faint of heart. But it's the surprising rock-leaning production that gives this Jessie Reyez song its real edge.
5. 'No Chill,' PartyNextDoor
The Toronto R&B star flexes his vocal acrobatics over this moody track where he tries to show love to someone, but admits, "Ever since I copped you all that ice you got no chill." Trap beats and echoing backing vocals add to the downcast vibe, helping to cement the song as one of the more lovesick entries in PartyNextDoor's catalogue.
4. 'One Last Dance,' Baby Rose and Badbadnotgood
Badbadnotgood provides a wistful backdrop for Baby Rose's lovelorn melodies delivered through her achingly soulful voice. The sweeping chorus aches with yearning: "I know you'll be alright/ if you never see me again," she sings, simply hoping for a longer romantic moment with her love interest.
3. 'In 2 Deep,' Chikoruss
Montreal newcomer Chikouruss isn't afraid to chase a girl who's in a relationship in this glossy 2000s R&B-inspired number. "You're the woman that I really want for me/ I'm in too deep, girl," he proclaims on the chorus, offering up his heart.
2. 'My Way,' Charlotte Day Wilson
The sleek opener to Charlotte Day Wilson's sophomore album, Cyan Blue, "My Way" is both unabashed in its R&B swagger and in the Toronto artist's starkly honest songwriting. "Living in the clouds that never rain/ and just like the seasons, feelings change," she sings on the glittering chorus.
1. 'Bloom,' Aqyila
It's the tug of wanting to completely give in to her emotions that propels this song from Aqyila, and she sounds elated to have found a love that is gentle and kind. "Everything you do, how you call my name/ Sunday afternoon, come and make it rain," she sings softly, the ecstasy of the romance taking over and allowing her to be mushy.