Top 20 R&B Music Videos and Why They Are Iconic (Copy)
Music videos has come a long way
R&B music has always been a popular genre for music lovers around the world. With its smooth melodies, soulful lyrics, and infectious beats, R&B has the ability to touch our hearts and move our souls. One of the reasons why R&B music is so beloved is because of the incredible music videos that accompany many of the songs. These music videos are not only visually stunning but also often tell a compelling story that enhances the overall listening experience. In this article, we will take a look at the top 20 R&B music videos of all time and explore why they have become iconic in the world of music.
1. "Thriller" – Michael Jackson (1983)
The greatest music video of all time, period.
Director: John Landis
Why it’s iconic:
First music video to be a full cinematic short film (14 minutes long!).
Revolutionized music videos, making them storytelling experiences rather than just performance clips.
The "Thriller" dance sequence became one of the most famous choreographies in history.
Set the blueprint for high-production music videos.
2. "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)" – Beyoncé (2008)
A minimalist masterpiece that took over pop culture.
Director: Jake Nava
Why it’s iconic:
Features one of the most famous viral dance routines ever.
The black-and-white visual aesthetic made it instantly recognizable.
Beyoncé exuded power and confidence, turning the song into a feminist anthem.
Won MTV VMA Video of the Year (2009), beating Kanye West’s infamous "Best Video of All Time" rant.
3. "Pony" – Ginuwine (1996)
The most seductive R&B video of the ‘90s.
Director: Michael Lucero
Why it’s iconic:
First R&B video to introduce a futuristic, cyber-club aesthetic.
The intensely choreographed dance moves added to the song’s sexual energy.
Created a signature style for Ginuwine, blending R&B with hip-hop swagger.
4. "Crazy in Love" – Beyoncé ft. Jay-Z (2003)
The beginning of Beyoncé’s solo reign.
Director: Jake Nava
Why it’s iconic:
Beyoncé’s legendary "uh-oh" dance move became a signature choreography moment.
The video’s high-energy cinematography and fierce presence set a new gold standard for R&B performances.
Marked Beyoncé’s breakout as a solo artist, separate from Destiny’s Child.
5. "No Scrubs" – TLC (1999)
A futuristic visual empowering women.
Director: Hype Williams
Why it’s iconic:
The space-age, neon-lit set design became instantly recognizable.
One of the first R&B videos to feature all CGI backgrounds.
The choreography was sleek yet empowering, capturing the song’s message of independence from toxic relationships.
6. "We Belong Together" – Mariah Carey (2005)
The most emotional breakup song of the 2000s.
Director: Brett Ratner
Why it’s iconic:
Captured Mariah’s comeback era, following a period of industry struggles.
The dramatic love story perfectly mirrored the song’s heartbreaking lyrics.
Became Mariah’s longest-running No.1 song and an R&B power ballad staple.
7. "Dilemma" – Nelly ft. Kelly Rowland (2002)
A love story that became a meme.
Director: Benny Boom
Why it’s iconic:
Showed real chemistry between Kelly Rowland and Nelly.
The "Kelly texting on Excel" moment became one of the most famous music video bloopers.
Defined early 2000s R&B love duets.
8. "P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)" – Michael Jackson (1983)
A feel-good anthem with iconic MJ dance moves.
Director: Steve Barron
Why it’s iconic:
Featured Michael’s signature footwork and stage charisma.
Helped define 80s R&B’s vibrant, energetic style.
9. "If I Ain’t Got You" – Alicia Keys (2004)
A song that feels like a movie.
Director: Diane Martel
Why it’s iconic:
Alicia’s piano-driven performance made the song feel timeless.
The love story and breakup narrative deepened the song’s impact.
10. "U Remind Me" – Usher (2001)
One of Usher’s smoothest videos.
Director: Dave Meyers
Why it’s iconic:
Featured Usher’s impeccable dance sequences.
Showcased his cool, effortless charm that defined 2000s R&B.
11. "Waterfalls" – TLC (1995)
One of the first R&B videos to tackle social issues.
Why it’s iconic:
Used cutting-edge CGI effects at the time.
Addressed serious topics like HIV/AIDS and drug addiction.
12. "Nice & Slow" – Usher (1998)
Usher’s R&B sex symbol moment.
Why it’s iconic:
Showed Usher’s ability to balance vulnerability and seduction.
Defined slow-jam R&B visuals.
13. "Be Without You" – Mary J. Blige (2005)
An emotional masterpiece.
Why it’s iconic:
Dramatic storytelling of love and loss.
Won R&B Song of the Decade (Billboard).
14. "Say My Name" – Destiny’s Child (1999)
A defining girl-group video.
Why it’s iconic:
Color-blocked aesthetic became legendary.
Established Beyoncé as the standout of Destiny’s Child.
15-20: More Iconic Videos
"Superstar" – Usher (2004) Emotional vulnerability at its best.
"Ex-Factor" – Lauryn Hill (1998) The ultimate breakup anthem.
"Untitled (How Does It Feel)" – D’Angelo (2000) A single-shot, intimate masterpiece.
"Confessions Part II" – Usher (2004) A raw storytelling moment.
"Rock Your Body" – Justin Timberlake (2003) Smooth dance moves and funky vibes.
"Pretty Wings" – Maxwell (2009) A visually stunning neo-soul experience.
Final Thoughts
These 20 R&B music videos shaped music history—whether through cinematic storytelling, innovative choreography, or raw emotion. They continue to influence artists today, proving that R&B’s visual legacy is just as powerful as its sound.