The Definitive List of the Top Ten R&B Albums of the 90s
These were common to play music on in the 90s. Mixtapes were also common.
The 1990s were a golden era for R&B music. Many artists released albums that changed the genre forever. The music from this time mixed smooth beats, powerful vocals, and deep emotions. From love songs to dance hits, the 90s had it all. In this article, we will look at the top ten R&B albums of the 90s that still inspire music lovers today.
1. Mariah Carey - "Daydream" (1995)
Mariah Carey's fifth album, "Daydream," is a mix of pop and R&B. With hit songs like "Fantasy" and "One Sweet Day" featuring Boyz II Men, this album proved Mariah was one of the best singers of her time. Her strong voice and emotional lyrics made this album a favorite.
2. Boyz II Men - "II" (1994)
Boyz II Men’s second album, "II," was a huge success in the 90s. Songs like "I'll Make Love to You" and "Water Runs Dry" showed their incredible harmonies and touching lyrics. This album was one of the best-selling R&B albums ever.
3. Whitney Houston - "The Bodyguard: Original Soundtrack Album" (1992)
This soundtrack includes some of Whitney Houston’s greatest songs. "I Will Always Love You" became one of the most famous songs in history. This album proved that Whitney was one of the greatest voices of all time.
4. TLC - "CrazySexyCool" (1994)
TLC’s album "CrazySexyCool" mixed R&B, hip-hop, and pop in a fresh way. Songs like "Waterfalls" and "Creep" made the group famous worldwide. Their style and confidence helped shape the future of R&B.
5. Janet Jackson - "janet." (1993)
Janet Jackson’s album "janet." showed a new, more personal side of the singer. Songs like "That’s the Way Love Goes" and "Any Time, Any Place" were smooth, soulful, and full of emotion. This album proved Janet was a true icon.
6. Aaliyah - "One in a Million" (1996)
Aaliyah’s second album, "One in a Million," introduced a fresh sound to R&B. Songs like "4 Page Letter" and "One in a Million" mixed soft vocals with new beats. Her style influenced many artists who came after her.
7. Boyz II Men - "Cooleyhighharmony" (1991)
Boyz II Men’s first album, "Cooleyhighharmony," showed their amazing harmonies and emotional lyrics. Songs like "Motownphilly" and "It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday" became classics.
8. Mary J. Blige - "My Life" (1994)
Mary J. Blige’s album "My Life" was deeply personal. Songs like "Be Happy" and "I’m Goin’ Down" shared her struggles and emotions. This album helped her earn the title "Queen of Hip-Hop Soul."
9. D’Angelo - "Brown Sugar" (1995)
D’Angelo’s first album, "Brown Sugar," brought a new style to R&B. Songs like "Brown Sugar" and "Cruisin’" mixed R&B with hip-hop and jazz. His smooth voice made him stand out in the 90s.
10. Brandy - "Never Say Never" (1998)
Brandy’s second album, "Never Say Never," showed her growth as an artist. Songs like "The Boy Is Mine" featuring Monica and "Have You Ever?" became big hits. Her unique voice and heartfelt songs made this album special.
Honorable Mentions
There were so many great R&B albums in the 90s that it’s hard to choose just ten. Here are some albums that also made a big impact:
Toni Braxton - "Secrets" (1996): Featuring the hit "Un-Break My Heart."
Maxwell - "Maxwell’s Urban Hang Suite" (1996): A smooth and romantic album.
Lauryn Hill - "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill" (1998): A mix of R&B and hip-hop with deep messages.
Destiny’s Child - "The Writing’s on the Wall" (1999): The album that made Destiny’s Child stars.
Joe - "All That I Am" (1997): Filled with soulful love songs.
Why the 90s Were So Important for R&B
The 90s were a special time for R&B music. Many artists mixed R&B with hip-hop, jazz, and pop to create new sounds. This helped R&B become one of the most popular genres of the decade. The music from this time still inspires artists today.
R&B in the 90s also gave us some of the best love songs ever. Many of these albums talk about love, heartbreak, and personal struggles. The deep emotions in these songs connect with listeners even years later.
The Impact of These Albums
These albums did more than just sell millions of copies. They changed the way R&B music sounded. Artists like Aaliyah and D’Angelo introduced a smoother, more modern sound that influenced today’s R&B artists. Groups like TLC and Boyz II Men showed the power of harmonies and storytelling in music.
The 90s also gave us some of the best female R&B singers. Artists like Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston, and Mary J. Blige showed that women could be strong, emotional, and powerful in music. Their voices and songs still inspire singers today.
The Lasting Legacy of 90s R&B
Even though the 90s are over, the music lives on. People still listen to these albums, and many new artists say they were inspired by them. R&B today wouldn’t be the same without the music of the 90s.
If you love R&B, take some time to listen to these classic albums. You might find a new favorite song or rediscover an old one. The 90s were truly a golden age for R&B, and these albums prove why.