2026 has been such a weird year for music. I feel like I’m living in a land of fantasy and make-believe.
And not because I just watched the Masters of the Universe movie.
2026 feels like the year disappointed fans are wrapping themselves in the cold arms of cope and denial.
My Cousin Chris Brown hits the “Thriller” lean on his album cover – stans scream “it’s gonna be the best album of his career!”
Spoiler: It was not.
Drake emerges from the most embarrassing beating in hip-hop history and stans scream – “Drake’s back with Iceman! It’s the best album of his career! He sure showed Kendrick Lamar!”
Spoiler: It was not. And he did not.
Instead of fantasizing about what you wished happened, let’s talk about what did happen:
R&B is enjoying an amazing run. Seven of my favorite albums this year are R&B records, and I’d put all of them above ANY hip-hop project so far. It’s been at least a decade since we’ve have so many high-quality and diverse R&B projects at one time.
Lots of artists have found their voice – and proved me wrong. Every year when we do these best of the year lists, I get DMs from fans who say “you left off my fave, he/she had the album of the year – go back and listen!” I promise you, I already did. And I wasn’t impressed. But this year is different. Those same artists have grown deeper into their artistry, showcasing better production, stronger writing and in one case, bold and compelling honesty that took his album to another level. Growth. You love to see it.
Realize the algorithm will not serve you great music. I get it, most of y’all don’t spend hours a day scouring the corners of the Internet to find great music from somewhat obscure artists. Thankfully, you have me. When the headliners disappoint, dig a little deeper. I promise you’ll find great music.
Lucky for you, I already did the digging.
So instead of pretending that those three Drake albums weren’t a trio of poop emojis, or holding your breath for Jay-Z to drop Revenge of Roots Picnic or for Beyonce to finally unleash Act 3: Rise of the Machines, let’s look back at the 25 best albums 2026 has to offer … so far. They’re unranked for now (we’ll save that for December) but all 25 deserve a spot on your playlists.
First up, a few honorable mentions that just missed out:
Freddie Gibbs, RBT
Ego Ella May, Good Intentions
Boldy James, Ransom, and Nicholas Craven, Salvation for the Wicked
Durand Bernarr, Bernarr
Tiana Major9, November Scorpio
Zo! and Tall Black Guy, Expansions
Larry June, Currency and Alchemist, Spiral Staircases
GENA, The Pleasure is Yours
Marqus Clae & !llmind, Untitled
Elijah Blake, The Gemini
Coyote and Statik Selektah, Machetes & Micheladas
Kehlani, Kehlani
For years, Kehlani was touted as R&B’s next great hope. And despite glimmers of brilliance, I never bought in. That is, until I “Folded” along with the rest of the world. The momentum of that great track carries into Kehlani, a project that embraces classic R&B songwriting while avoiding many of the genre’s modern pitfalls. The first half is especially strong, filled with lush production, thoughtful lyrics, and some of Kehlani’s most confident performances to date. High-profile collaborations with Brandy and Usher showcase how comfortably she now stands alongside R&B royalty. All the guests don’t hit quite as hard but the album remains a rewarding listen from start to finish. Finally, Kehlani seems like she’s evolving into the version of herself she was always meant to become.
Isaiah Rashad, It’s Been Awful
Clearly, Isaiah Rashad has been through a LOT and It’s Been Awful is his opportunity to bare his soul. Sometimes a rant session, sometimes a therapy session, and sometimes a cry for help, Isaiah’s latest is one of the most emotionally moving albums of the year – to the point of being uncomfortable at times. He confronts his personal struggles with striking honesty, resulting in brutal truths that few artists would have the courage to showcase. The subdued tone may be a turnoff for some, but it’s a reflection of his emotional state, reflecting the intimacy and rawness of each bar. You have to applaud Rashad for being for his honesty – he knows that not only will it save his listeners, it may be the way he saves himself.
Mya, Retrospect
Mya has enjoyed a long career with solid albums and memorable singles, but there’s something about her most recent run that’s extra special. She’s more poised, more confident and aging like the finest of wines. Retrospect is another win in her reinvention, flashing back to the 70s and 80s sounds of her childhood to deliver danceable grooves and smooth soul. She effortlessly taps into the energy that made that era of R&B so much fun. Sure, the sounds may be a throwback, but it’s another forward step in her career.
38 Spesh, 8 Shots
I’ve been a diehard fan of 38 Spesh every since he quipped, “they don’t really want go there, it’s like Sunday school” way back on Benny the Butcher’s The Plugs I Met 2. If you want a random standout line on your track, Spesh in the man to deliver. And despite many albums and mixtape since then, I find most of his project solid but lacking the firepower that I know he posses. 8 Shots is where he finally lets loose. It’s more of what he does best – hard-hitting street narratives over rugged production. But his bars are tighter and the production more memorable. Essentially, he’s refining a winning formula, to great results. Spesh has a one track mind – bully bars aplenty – but you can tell he’s raising his game. #Trust
RAYE, This Music May Contain Hope
2025 was breakout year for Raye, thanks to a slew of Grammy nominations and a show-stopping live performance at the same event. Her latest proves that she’s not slowing down that momentum. True to its name, This Music May Contain Hope is emotionally charged record that’s equal parts devastation and resilience. The blend of pop, jazz and R&B feels downright cinematic at times (thanks to the contributions of Hans Zimmer, no doubt) as Raye bares her soul with emotionally resonant performances. It’s a sprawling, ambitious project that takes big risks but almost always lands. But without risks, there is no hope, right?
Alex Isley, When the City Sleeps
Well, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. After Alex Isley’s EP When stole the show for most of 2025, she decided to expand the project into full album. When the City Sleeps is essentially the best moments of that EP with more great moments piled on. Blessings on blessings. The atmosphere is dreamy, with Alex’s voice floating through the lush harmonies and atmospheric production. And while the surprises are few, the quality remains intact. Alex literally gave us more of what we asked for.
Tone Stith, The Edge
If you were outside with us in these R&B streets in the late 2010s, you probably remember when Tone Stith looked like the genre’s next great hope. After years of searching for the right lane, The Edge finally delivers the identity that had been missing from some of his earlier work. Anchored by the breakthrough success of “Fly,” the album thrives on feel-good R&B that blends vintage influences with fresh energy. Songs like “Pageant Stage,” “Back Around,” and “Come to Me” are warm, inviting reminders of how powerful joyful music can be. And even when Tone addresses his frustrations, the project never loses its optimistic spirit. The Edge feels like the moment potential finally turns into promise. I love when talented artists win.
Jai’Len Josey, Serial Romantic
The journey may have been delayed but this could finally be Jai’Len Josey’s time. Serial Romantic captures the thrill (and exhaustion) of modern love with humor, vulnerability, and lots of flair. Jai’Len Josey’s vocal versatility gives her album the personality that many contemporary R&B projects lack. True story – while playing “Love Ain’t S***,” on a road trip recently, my wife was like “who’s this?” and immediately hit the streaming sites to hear more. That’s the power of great writing and performances that emotionally connect with the listener. Jai’Len already has one new fan; this album will ensure that more are on the way.
Thundercat, Distracted
Tie that Dragonbal Durag on tight, Thundercat is back with more hilarious musings and beautifully murky soundscapes. Distracted finds Thundercat back in his sweet spot – compelling instrumentation laced with his eccentric humor. You may come for the incredible bass work but it’s his quirky songwriting that will make you stick around for more. It’s where Distracted finds its identity.But don’t get sidetracked by the jokes and nerd references, Distracted is a showcase of a legit artist at work.
Rashad, I Was Told There’d Be Gold
I kid y’all not when I say this: I Was Told There’d Be Gold is one of the best produced projects of the year. Each track bursts with a creative energy that far exceeds the lazy looping samples that haunt so many of today’s works. But this album is more than just dope beats – Rashad is a thoughtful storyteller who balances introspection with ambition. His themes of love and success are grounded, but resonate with a spark of optimism. He’s not just hoping for the best, he’s yearning for it. Rashad is no stranger to the game, but this R&B architect may have just crafted his best work to date.
Blu & Exile, Time Heals Everything
At this point in their storied partnership, when you see the names Blu and Exile together, you know quality is guaranteed. It’s a seal of excellence. Time Heals Everything keeps the streak of greatness strong. Exile’s soulful, layered production provides the perfect backdrop for Blu, who, as always, dives deep for some soul-stirring introspection. The chemistry is as tight as ever, and the result is another top-tier effort. This duo is timeless.
Jonathan McReynolds, Closer (Live in Chicago)
Lord knows we need some Holy Ghost-fueled ministry in 2026, and Jonathan McReynolds is here to deliver. Recorded before an enthusiastic hometown crowd, Closer showcases McReynolds’ gift for blending worship, testimony, and musicianship. The live setting brings extra energy and spontaneity into songs that already carried lots of emotional weight. It’s more than a performance, it’s an experience. Nothing hits like live gospel. McReynolds is doing the Lord’s work.
AZ, Doe or Die 3
AZ’s Doe or Die 2 was met with mixed reviews – not from me, though, I thought it was great. But I think we can all agree that Doe or Die 3 overachieved and may go down as one of AZ’s best releases to date. He proudly embraces his role as elder statesmen, providing rapid-fire wisdom courtesy of one of the best rap deliveries of all time. Doe or Die 3 is filled with reflection and callbacks to previous hits, as AZ (sometimes tearfully) looks back on 30 years of captivating music. It’s a celebration of one of rap’s most underrated careers and a reminder that he still has a story to tell.
Elmiene, Sounds for Someone
What a way to make a first impression. Sounds for Someone, the British-Sudanese crooner’s official debut, makes an immediate impression with is subtle beauty. His soulful voice and minimalist production create a sense of intimacy that is totally unique in today’s brazen R&B landscape. Feeling less like a performance and more like a gentle conversation, Elmiene gracefully lures the listener in sincere lyricism and serene production. It feels like love, and I’m glad that Elmiene is brave enough to recapture that long-lost magic.
IDK, ETDS
IDK has always been an intriguing artist to me – full of potential that isn’t always realized. But thanks to ETDS, IDK gives us one of his most ambitious and conceptually focused projects, combining sharp lyricism with adventurous production. He’s never been afraid to experiment, and most of the risks – both sonically and conceptually – pay off. ETDS blends introspection, humor, and social commentary into compelling narratives and a surprising roster of guest stars keeps the experience unpredictable. IDK is another artist who is coming into his own in the year of our Lord 2026.
Brent Faiyaz, Icon
Yeah, this entry may surprise some of you. I’ve lobbed my share of criticisms at Mr. Faiyaz over the years. Not because I doubted his talent, quite the opposite in fact. He had so many decent projects that should have been great ones. I knew he could go harder. And on Icon, we finally get that energy I’ve been asking for. Brent leans hard into his charisma, delivering sleek R&B that feels both luxurious and emotionally detached. The moody, minimalistic production can be a pitfall if not supported by strong lyricism and engaging performances, and Brent steps up nicely. It’s the consistency and confidence that makes Icon a repeat visitor on my playlists.
Da Flyy Hooligan, Supreme Cut Untouched Magnificence 2
If you’re looking for a taste of that gritty, hard-hitting boom bap, take a trip to the UK. Da Flyy Hooligan continues his march toward greatness with Supreme Cut Untouched Magnificence 2, and it’s just not the album’s title that’s a mouthful. Hooli holds nothing back as he unleashes vivid storytelling over dusty soul samples and menacing production. And while boom bap has the unfortunate reputation of being repetitive in today’s landscape, Hooligan keeps the momentum rolling with his targeted delivery and surprisingly deep themes. Da Flyy Hooligan knows there’s a corner of hip-hop hungry for his brand of storytelling, and he’s here to deliver.
Hil St. Soul, Nasalifya
Can we decide now as a family to STOP sleeping on Hil? Nasalifya is neo-soul at its highest form – authentic and moving, inviting and expansive. It’s the sound that fans have been clamoring for since VH1 Soul was still on our tube TVs.The album’s charm lies in its refusal to chase trends. The warm production, the robust vocals, the moving performances – Nasalifya is a portrait of why we love R&B. It’s a manifestation of the Black experience, emotion and expression brought to life. R&B fans, this album is everything you’ve been searching for.
Nick Grant, Smile
Add Nick Grant to that list of “underrated rappers who should be way bigger by now.” But while the world continues to sleep, he continues to Smile – by dropping hard-hitting, no-frills hip-hop. Just how I like it. Smile makes no attempt to chase trends to beg for mainstream acceptance. His bars are sharp, thoughtful, and delivered with the confidence of a seasoned veteran. Add a solid array of guest stars and Smile reigns and as one of Grant’s best works to date.
Ari Lennox, Vacancy
Whenever those podcasters start complaining about the death of R&B, just send them a link to an Ari playlist. She’s been out here for years, consistently holding down the genre with her brand of relatable humor and vulnerable emotion. As always, Vacancy is a showcase for her distinct vocals and deeply personal writing. The warm, soulful production complements her voice without overshadowing it. And while critics may point out that Vacancy doesn’t add any new wrinkles to her game, it maintains the level of quality and consistency that has made her one of the game’s most reliable voices. You know what you’re going to get with an Ari album – an engaging listen from start to finish.
Action Bronson, Planet Frog
If you know Action Bronson, you know exactly what you’re getting with Planet Frog – the weirdest collection of punchlines and non-sequiturs you can imagine over ever-evolving production. It’s like if Ren & Stimpy ransacked one of those old Hip-Hop Awards cyphers. Though his style may be an acquired taste, it’s certainly pleasing to my palate. Between the unpredictable production and mindboggling metaphors, you never know where Bronson is taking you next, and that’s what makes his music so fun. Sometimes you gotta embrace the absurdity.
Bruno Mars, The Romantic
I’ve never really bought the criticism that Bruno Mars is predictable, because his career has been built on evolution. The Romantic may not be a total reinvention, but it absolutely shows his versatility. With D’Mile’s stellar production providing fresh sonic twists, the album balances soulful ballads, dance-floor grooves, and heartfelt vulnerability. Tracks like “Why You Wanna Fight” showcase the emotional honesty that has always been one of Bruno’s greatest strengths. At just nine tracks, the project is tight and polished – impactful without overstaying its welcome. Growth doesn’t have to be drastic to be meaningful. And Bruno makes the journey sound so good.
Jae Skeese & ILL Tone Beats, The Good Part Vol. 1
Y’all know how it goes – if the homie Jae Skeese drops an album, it’s gonna wind up on one of Best of the Year list, guaranteed. The Good Part Vol. 1 is no exception, but this one hits different. Skeese’s wordplay is never to be questioned, but he finds incredible chemistry with ILL Tone, and that takes his bars to another level. Skeese, as always, balances personal reflection with expertly crafted storytelling but ILL Tone’s production serves as one of his best sonic canvases to date. Jae Skeese was already a formidable MC on his own but he may have found his equal in ILL Tone. It’s not just an upgrade, it’s elevation.
J. Cole, The Fall Off
Well, it wasn’t the instant classic we were expecting, but that doesn’t mean it wasn’t great. Few artists spend as much time questioning their own legacy as J. Cole, and that self-reflection gives The Fall Off compelling emotional weight. The double-disc approach gives us two sides of Cole – the hungry young dreamer who first captured fans’ attention and the seasoned veteran who has inspired a generation. Across nearly two hours, he delivers sharp storytelling, thoughtful introspection, and some of his most focused writing in years. Whether or not this is truly his final album, The Fall Off serves as a fitting celebration of the impact he’s made along the way.
Jill Scott, To Who This May Concern
Jill Scott never owed us another album, which is part of what makes To Whom This May Concern feel so special. Though it comes more than a decade after her last release, this project –blending love, wisdom, social commentary – arrives right on time. The album showcases her trademark versatility, moving effortlessly between neo-soul, disco, spoken word, blues, and hip-hop. Encouragement and accountability are her motivating factors, with tracks like “Pressha” and “The Math” providing healing for a world dying of thirst. It’s not just a great R&B album, it’s the restoration that R&B has been looking for. As of this moment, you won’t find a better album this year (so far).
What are your favorite albums of the year so far? Share yours with the class below.
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