5 Standout R&B Albums You May Have Missed This Year

With so much music dropping each week, it’s nearly impossible to keep up with all the releases.

That’s why you’re lucky to have me around.

Take a look at five R&B standouts that may have flown under your radar – they’re worthy of your ears.

Shawn Stockman, Shawn

Yes, you read that right, THAT Shawn Stockman. For decades, we’ve heard rumors about the Boyz II Men standout’s solo LP and this surprise EP gives us a taste of what could be in store. Delicately balancing between modern production and his hallmark, vintage vocals, these five tracks easily prove that Shawn’s still one of the best voices in R&B.

NAO, Saturn

NAO has long been full of promise – her debut For All We Know was a highlight of 2016. But the London singer really comes into her own with her sophomore release, an examination of love with an astrological backdrop. The sparse, airy brand of R&B that’s all the rage today often feels too lightweight, but NAO wisely adds meat on the bone with very strong songwriting and passionate performances. It’s proof that she’s here to stay.

Case, Therapy

Every time Case drops an album, best believe we’re going to highlight it. Why? Because he’s made a career out of consistence. Therapy, his sixth solo release, doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it’s the same brand of quality R&B he’s delivered for well over two decades. Strong tempo tracks and his classic ballads accent Therapy, yet another victory for a singer who remains undefeated.

Raheem DeVaughn, Decade of a Love King

If you need help setting the mood, call on the Love King. Raheem’s brand of sensuality rarely stumbles, and his hot streak continues with this, his sixth solo release. Bursting with baby-makers, Raheem uses his personal instrument in sync with standout production on Decade of a Love King to effectively stimulate your senses. It’s one of his best releases in recent memory, proving the Love King’s in no danger of losing his crown.

VanJess, Silk Canvas

For Nigerian-American sisters Ivana and Jessica Nwokike, it’s all about synergy, and that’s why their debut is such a standout. Their voices blend together so seamlessly that it sounds like one person – let’s just call her VanJess – is behind the microphone. Silk Canvas is as smooth as its namesake implies, boasting warm harmonies and brimming confidence. If you’ve been worked that this current generation of singers have lost the element of soul, VanJess will prove you wrong. Together.

What are some of your favorite underrated R&B releases this year? Tell us below.