Welcome back to the soulful world of R&B! As we roll through another week, the genre continues to evolve with fresh sounds and unforgettable melodies.
It’s a soulful summer kickoff, and R&B is talking back—from self-reflection to sensual heat, these new drops are all hitting in their own way.
From chart-topping hits to rising stars making their mark, this week’s releases are full of smooth vibes and heartfelt lyrics. Whether you’re vibing to a sultry slow jam or a bouncy anthem, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into the hottest new tracks that are going to dominate your playlists and shape the future of R&B.
This Fresh Finds Fridays column features releases from Ro James, Alex Isley, Teyana Taylor, Lehae, Sweata, Ciara ft. Teyana Taylor & Nomani, and Chxrry. Whew! This week’s drops are doing exactly what R&B is supposed to—make us feel something. Add these to your playlists, turn the lights low, and let the vibes take over.
Whether you’re healing, vibing, or just trying to feel seen, there’s something here for you.
Which one are you spinning first? Tap in, turn it up, and let us know which song has you in your feelings or in your power. Let’s keep the conversation going in the comments.
Ro James: “On Me”
Ro James steps into a new season with “On Me,” a bold return to form that leans into self-ownership and clarity. He is back with a confident vengeance and crisp return that puts accountability at the center.
Co-crafted with Sircassmaya and Andrew Andy Diaz, the track moves with quiet swagger and clarity. “I got everything I need, and it’s all on me,” he sings—serving up grown-man R&B with no fluff.
This isn’t about blame or heartbreak—it’s about ownership and evolution. His voice glides over a bassline that feels like it’s walking shoulder-first into a new chapter.
“On Me” reintroduces Ro not just as a vocalist, but as a storyteller who’s done the work.
Ro rides a smooth, confident beat as he makes it clear—he’s the only one responsible for his path forward. It’s a reminder that leveling up means betting on yourself.
Ro has made this track a personal anthem of grown-man energy.
Alex Isley: “Fools Gold (A Colors Show)”
Alex Isley continues to be the queen of grace and tone with “Fool’s Gold,” her COLORS Show performance that floats on bare honesty and tender restraint.
In her COLORS performance of “Fool’s Gold,” Alex Isley is elegance in motion, offering a masterclass in restraint and emotional storytelling.
Her signature silken tone floats over stripped-down production, making each lyric land like a soft truth. She paints the illusion of love with careful strokes—shimmering, beautiful, but hollow underneath.
“Fool’s gold glitters just like the real thing,” she sighs, with a quiet ache in her voice.
It’s the kind of performance that holds you still and doesn’t let go until long after the last note.
Her vocals glisten as she explores what feels real but turns out empty. It’s classic Alex—subtle, poetic, and emotionally magnetic.
Teyana Taylor: “Long Time”
Teyana Taylor taps into deep reflection with “A Long Time”—a cinematic slow-burn that sounds like a diary entry.
On it, she sings with both ache and strength, revisiting a relationship she should’ve walked away from sooner. “I stayed way too long, and I knew it,” she confesses.
Gentle yet strong lyrics & vocals that show her inner self confidence on the track.
The beat blends a rocksteady rhythm with modern soul, giving Teyana the space to pour out both regret and resilience.
Fans are loving the vulnerability and raw womanhood she brings to the table.
Elhae:”Is This Love ft. Phabo)”
Elhae and Phabo deliver a late-night heater with “Is This Love”—a sultry, slow drip of emotion and curiosity.
“Is this love, or am I caught in a vibe?” Elhae asks, as the track floats on whispery vocals and a grown R&B groove.
His raspy tone and intimate alluring lyrics turn the song into a heady question mark that lingers long after it ends.
This is one to add to top- 0f-your fav-moodsetter-playlist.
Sweata: “R&B Dreams”
Sweata keeps the dream alive on “R&B Dreams,” giving listeners vibes layered with fresh energy.
It’s the kind of track that feels like a nod to the greats while carving his own lane.
With “R&B Dreams,” the rising singer, songwriter, and producer Sweata leans into laid-back velvety vocals and retro charm, offering a warm, soulful moment that bridges eras.
The track floats like a late-night radio classic, but his delivery is all his own. It’s an ode to the genre—smooth, heartfelt, and wrapped in real emotion.
His voice curls around the melody like incense smoke, soft but unmistakable.
“R&B Dreams” has fans hooked on his warm energy and undeniable talent, making one thing clear: Sweata is far from just another voice-he’s here to stay.
Ciara: “Ecstacy” ft. Teyana Taylor & Nomani (remix)
Ciara turns up the sensuality with the remix of “Ecstasy” recruiting Teyana Taylor and Normani—a powerhouse trio bringing fire and finesse, to elevate the remix into a celebration of divine femininity.
It’s rhythmic, lush, and dripping with feminine energy—each voice holding its own; CiCi’s breathy coos, Teyana’s edge, and Normani’s sultry glide, but melting together beautifully.
The trio blends their vocal textures like silk and fire, creating a hypnotic soundscape that’s as intimate as it is powerful.
The remix feels like a private moment in slow motion, dripping in confidence and intention. It’s a reminder that when women team up in R&B, the results are nothing short of magic.
Chxrry:”Main Character”
Then there’s Chxrry who’s stepping fully into her own light with “Main Character.”
The Toronto R&B-pop standout (formerly Chxrry22) glides over production from The Believve (Tyla, Arin Ray), with 808s that thump like a heartbeat and synths that swell with cinematic drama.
“You said I’m the one you’re thinking of, but I know I’m not the only one you love,” she sings—before confidently asserting her place. Chxrry makes it clear: she’s nobody’s side piece.
This one’s for the girls reclaiming their narrative and refusing to settle for background roles.
