5 Alternative R&B Songs That Should Be In Your iTunes Library

​For those of you who are scratching your head at the title, I didn’t make a mistake. Alternative R&B is a real thing and is a sub category of R&B (obviously). The term Alternative R&B has been around since the late 1990s and was used to describe neo-soul artist as a marketing tool for R&B lovers. This specific genre of music is full of artists that aren’t yet considered mainstream but they still have a solid following. Most tunes that fall under the Alternative R&B umbrella have a unique sound that doesn’t always come across as “radio friendly”. While Alternative R&B is not everyone’s cup of tea, it’s mine and I have to share a few of my favorite songs! If you end up liking any of them, leave a comment below let me know!

P.S. These songs aren’t in any particular order. I love them all the same!

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Breathe Again – Couros

​This mellow, electro-soul tune is great for days you want feel good vibes. London newcomer, Couros, knows exactly how to deliver a smooth and silky song.

​Firefly – Mura Masa

​House and Techno mash perfectly in this upbeat melody provided by British music producer, Mura Masa. Vocals are covered by British singer and song writer, Nao.

I’d Rather Be With You – Sinead Harnett

​This upbeat song just makes you smile when you think of the one you love. Make sure to check out her self-titled EP on Spotify if you can!

Needs – Elhae

​There’s just something about guys who sing about romance over lazy trap beats that draw me in. Check out what kind of woman Elhae is looking for in his melodic ditty, “Needs”.

​C’est La Vie – Tinashe

​Going through a break up? Tinashe has you covered in this uncanny and beautiful arrangement where she embraces life after “cutting a lame” out of it.  

Thundercat – Them Changes

The funk era didn’t die, it was just in hibernation. Thundercat knows how to get you swaying in your seat to this psychedelic groove.