50 Smooth R&B Love Songs That'll Set the Tone for a Romantic Date Night

Music has the remarkable ability to express the inexpressible, and when it comes to conveying matters of the heart, nothing does it quite like R&B love songs. With velvety vocals, sensual rhythms and lyrics that exude seduction, R&B has been the soundtrack to countless romantic encounters.

The R&B genre as a whole has evolved over the decades, incorporating elements of funk, soul, hip-hop and pop, yet its core essence remains unchanged — an unparalleled celebration of love, desire and connection. So, from the soulful crooners of the 1970s to the contemporary chart-toppers of today, we've curated a wide collection of the best R&B love songs that set a romantic tone—including an R&B music playlist you can save for later.

Whether you're planning a cozy night in with your spouse, looking for R&B wedding songs or spicing up a special date night, here are the 50 best R&B love songs that'll make you want to dim the lights, light some candles and bask in each other's company.

R&B Love Songs in this Article:

• Popular R&B Love Songs
• 2010s R&B Love Songs
• 2000s R&B Love Songs
• 90s R&B Love Songs
• 80s R&B Love Songs
• 70s R&B Love Songs
• R&B Music Playlist

Popular R&B Love Songs

Looking for trendy tunes to add to your R&B playlist? Add some contemporary romance to your playlist with the latest and most popular R&B love songs.

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"Hit Different," SZA, The Neptunes, Pharrell Williams, Ty Dolla $ign

Lyrics you'll love: "All that I know is/Mirrors inside me/They recognize you/Please, don't deny me"

Here's a newer R&B love song with a smooth, laid-back beat and hypnotic vibe. The production is classic Neptunes—minimal but rich, with subtle percussion and dreamy melodies (we adore SZA love songs) that give the song a hazy, late-night feel.

"Heart Of A Woman," Summer Walker

Lyrics you'll love: "Only thing that's saving you, oh/Is the heart of a woman"

This raw and soulful track shows off Summer Walker's smooth, emotive vocals over a mellow, R&B groove that's hard not to love.

"Soh-Soh," Odeal

Lyrics you'll love: "Girl, let's be honest, the things I would do/I fit to spend pounds on you, I fit to spend dolls on you"

A blend of Afropop and Nigerian R&B, "Soh-Soh" by Odeal is the perfect romantic song to vibe to.

"Ooh Nah Nah," SiR, Masego

Lyrics you'll love: "I tried but I can't stop thinking 'bout you"

If you're looking for a seductive, effortless groove to add to your R&B playlist, "Ooh Nah Nah" is sure to set the mood.

"I Want You Around," Snoh Aalegra

Lyrics you'll love: "I want you around (around)/Around/I want you around (around)/Around ('round, 'round, 'round)"

Here's a dreamy, slow-burning R&B love song that captures the feeling of wanting to be close to someone without saying too much.

"What If," Amber Mark

Lyrics you'll love: "If it were my choice, I would never let go, it's true/God, I hope this is true"

With rich, expressive vocals, this feel-good R&B love song is just the kind of track that'll make you reflect, relax and soak in the moment.

"Moonlight," Kali Uchis

Lyrics you'll love: "Forget the small talk/The surface level ain't much that I care for/Putting on my lipgloss/I saw you stare from my peripheral"

Step into the sensual realm of Kali Uchis with her popular song, "Moonlight." Categorized as neo-soul R&B, this track's smooth vocals and groovy bassline are sure to set a romantic tone for your next date night.

"Do You Like Me," Daniel Caesar

Lyrics you'll love: "Do you like the way I talk to you?/Do I titillate your mind?/Gotta say I like your attitude/And I'd love to make you mine"

Through his soulful melodies and introspective lyrics, you can feel Daniel Caesar's magnetic energy in "Do You Like Me." The slow, rhythmic pulse of the song gives a vibe of intimacy and vulnerability that belongs on your R&B love songs playlist.

"Where I Go," NxWorries (feat. H.E.R.)

Lyrics you'll love: "I had to mail you somethin', tell me when it's at the door/And when you open it, I hope you get hysterical/I had to share it with somebody that I really trust"

This soulful R&B song beautifully combines Anderson .Paak's smooth, emotive vocals with H.E.R.'s sultry harmonies, creating a sensuous atmosphere fit for a romantic evening.

"Snooze," SZA

Lyrics you'll love: "I'll touch that fire for you/I do that three, four times again, I testify for you"

With its slow tempo, smooth melodies, and evocative storytelling, look no further than "Snooze" if you want to set a romantic mood.

"Leave The Door Open," Silk Sonic

Lyrics you'll love: "I ain't playing no games/Every word that I say is coming straight from the heart/So if you tryna lay in these arms/I'ma leave the door open"

Released in 2021, this R&B hit is a collaboration between Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak, who hit it out of the park with its smooth soulful melody and lyrics dripping with longing and desire.

2010s R&B Love Songs

The 2010s were a golden era for R&B, offering plenty of soulful tunes that captured the essence of romance in the modern age. From Janet Jackson to Frank Ocean, here are some top-notch 2010s R&B love songs.

"No Sleep," Janet Jackson

Lyrics you'll love: "You're missing me, I'm missing you/Whenever we meet, we ain't gonna get no sleep"

This sultry R&B track, released in 2015, showcases Janet Jackson's signature vocals and sensual lyrics, making it a great tune to set an intimate mood.

"Thinkin' Bout You," Frank Ocean

Lyrics you'll love: "I'm thinking 'bout you (Ooh no, no, no)/I've been thinking 'bout you (You know, know, know)/I've been thinking 'bout you/Do you think about me still? Do ya, do ya?"

This Frank Ocean R&B ballad, released in 2012, features his signature vocals and poignant lyrics, making it a timeless ode to love and longing.

"Adorn," Miguel

Lyrics you'll love: "These lips can't wait to taste your skin, baby, no, no/And these eyes, yeah, can't wait to see your grin, ooh, ooh, baby"

Released in 2012 as part of Miguel's album, Kaleidoscope Dream, this R&B hit is a sultry and seductive song with a smooth, sensuous melody and captivating vocals.

"Dive In," Trey Songz

Lyrics you'll love: "Wanting to go deeper than you'll ever know/Wanting to feel, the way you flow/Ooh, you got that look up in your eyes/What we 'bout to do ain't no surprise"

"Dive In" demonstrates Trey Songz's smooth vocal prowess as he invites his lover to dive into a passionate and intimate encounter. Very romantic.

"I Like That," Janelle Monáe

Lyrics you'll love: "A little crazy, little sexy, little cool/Little rough around the edges, but I keep it smooth"

This R&B love song, known for its sultry and self-confident vibe, is a testament to self-love and acceptance. Its smooth and groovy melody, coupled with soulful vocals, creates an air of sensuality and empowerment — which makes it perfect for setting a romantic mood.

"Julia," SZA

Lyrics you'll love: "Dying of daydreams in your bedroom (bedroom, bedroom)"

Reminisce on past loves with this gorgeous R&B love song by SZA. It has a shimmering, nostalgic feel that R&B fans will adore.

"Work," Charlotte Day Wilson

Lyrics you'll love: "'Cause people come and go/But I think you should know/That I-I/Think this'll work"

"Work" by Charlotte Day Wilson is a beautifully understated and soulful track, driven by minimal production and rich vocals.

"Cranes in the Sky," Solange

Lyrics you'll love: "But it's like cranes in the sky/Sometimes I don't wanna feel those metal clouds"

Here's a Solange song you won't want to skip—it's an introspective track with a smooth, airy sound that feels almost weightless.

2000s R&B Love Songs

2000s R&B not only captured the essence of love, but also reflected the cultural and musical evolution of the time. Here are a few 2000s love songs that absolutely deserve a spot on your romantic R&B playlist.

"If I Ain't Got You," Alicia Keys

Lyrics you'll love: "Some people want it all/But I don't want nothing at all/If it ain't you, baby"

Here's an iconic love ballad that truly captures the essence of heartfelt romance. Released in 2003 as part of her album, The Diary of Alicia Keys, "If I Ain't Got You" beautifully showcases Alicia Keys' unmatched sound.

"Mesmerize," Ja Rule (feat. Ashanti)

Lyrics you'll love: "Girl your stare, those eyes I (love it when you look at me, baby)/Your lips, your smile I (love it when you kiss me, baby)"

Released in 2002, this chart-topping hit illustrates Ja Rule's distinctive raspy vocals complemented by Ashanti's soulful voice, making it an instant classic in the genre.

"Love Of My Life (An Ode To Hip Hop)," Erykah Badu (feat. Common)

Lyrics you'll love: "Love of my life/You are my friend (yea)/Love of my life/I can depend"

Released in 2002, this song features a smooth blend of R&B and hip-hop elements, making it an excellent choice for an R&B music playlist that celebrates love with a nod to urban culture. The song's lyrics exude affection and devotion, making it a perfect addition to set the mood for a romantic evening

"Dilemma," Nelly (feat. Kelly Rowland)

Lyrics you'll love: "No matter what I do (woo)/All I think about is you (uh huh)/Even when I'm with my boo/Boy, you know I'm crazy over you"

This iconic R&B track blends smooth melodies with Nelly's signature rap style and features Kelly Rowland's soulful vocals, making it a timeless love anthem.

"We Belong Together," Mariah Carey

Lyrics you'll love: "Who's gon' to talk to me 'til the sun comes up?/Who's gon' take your place, there ain't nobody there/Oh, baby, baby, we belong together"

Released in 2005, this R&B love song became a massive hit and is widely regarded as one of Mariah Carey's signature tracks. Its smooth and soulful melody, combined with powerful vocals, creates an emotionally charged setting for a romantic vibe.

"You," Lloyd, Lil Wayne

Lyrics you'll love: "Ooh, you're just my type/Everything's so right/And I just wanna chill/So let's dip up out of here"

"You" is a smooth, classic R&B love song with a dreamy, romantic vibe. Lloyd's silky falsetto glides over the mellow beat while Lil Wayne's playful verse adds a perfect contrast.

"Let Me Love You," Mario

Lyrics you'll love: "You should let me love you/Let me be the one to/Give you everything you want and need"

Here's the ultimate "let me treat you right" anthem—perfect for slow dancing, singing along or just feeling the love.

90s R&B Love Songs

The 90s really were a golden age for romantic songs that continue to resonate today. See below for our favorite 90s R&B love songs to add to your mix.

"Lady," D'Angelo

Lyrics you'll love: "You're my little baby (baby), my darling baby (baby)/I swear you're the talk of the town/And everybody wants to know what's goin' down"

Released in 1996 as part of his debut album Brown Sugar, "Lady" exudes sensuality and captures the essence of the smooth, sultry sounds R&B fans know and love.

"Killing Me Softly With His Song," Fugees

Lyrics you'll love: "Strumming my pain with his fingers (One time, one time)/Singing my life with his words (Two times, two times)/Killing me softly with his song"

This iconic 90s rendition of the original sung by Roberta Flack displays Lauryn Hill's soulful vocals and the group's impeccable blend of hip-hop and R&B.

"Red Light Special," TLC

Lyrics you'll love: "Baby, it's yours, all yours, if you want it tonight/I'll give you the red light special all through the night"

Released in 1994 as part of their hit album CrazySexyCool, "Red Light Special," is a sultry and sensual song that belongs on every romantic R&B playlist.

"Real Love," Mary J Blige

Lyrics you'll love: "Real love, I'm searching for a real love/Someone to set my heart free/Real love, I'm searching for a real love"

Released in 1992 as the second single from her debut album, What's the 411?, this song not only marked the beginning of Mary J. Blige's illustrious career, but also became an instant classic in the R&B genre.

"Nice & Slow," Usher

Lyrics you'll love: "Let me take you to a place nice and quiet/There ain't no one there to interrupt/Ain't gotta rush/I just want to take it nice and slow"

Released in 1997 as part of his breakthrough album, My Way, this Usher song is an embodiment of 90s R&B sensuality and remains a classic in the genre.

"Cherish the Day," Sade

Lyrics you'll love: "You're ruling the way that I move/And I breathe your air"

With velvety vocals that glide effortlessly over a mellow, groovy instrumentation, here's a dreamy R&B love song that feels both intimate and timeless.

"Ex-Factor," Ms. Lauryn Hill

Lyrics you'll love: "See, no one loves you more than me (more than me)/And no one ever will (no one ever will, yeah)"

Exploring classic themes of unrequited love, this R&B ballad is heart-wrenching and is sure to hit deep.

"Tell Me," Groove Theory

Lyrics you'll love: "If you thought I'd sleep on this/Boy, you're wrong 'cause all I dream about is our first kiss"

Here's a feel-good R&B classic with a great blend of soulful vocals and a breezy, hip-hop-influenced beat.

"Love Like This," Faith Evans

Lyrics you'll love: "I never knew there was a/Love like this before"

With an infectious groove and timeless hook, this R&B song from the 90s can't be missed. Built around a sample from Chic's "I Want Your Love," the song's bouncy beat makes it a perfect track for a party, throwback playlist or date night.

"So Into You," Tamia

Lyrics you'll love: "Every time that I'm near you/I realize that you're heaven sent, baby"

"So Into You" is the kind of love song that never gets old—great for slow dancing, reminiscing or just getting lost in your feelings.

"No Ordinary Love," Sade

Lyrics you'll love: "This is no ordinary love/No ordinary Love"

Sade brings a mesmerizing blend of smooth jazz, R&B and soul, with an intoxicating, almost cinematic feel to this gorgeous R&B song.

80s R&B Love Songs

Whether it's "I Would Die 4 U," by Prince or Roger's "I Want To Be Your Man," R&B love songs from the 80s evoke a sense of nostalgia and romance that transcends generations, making them a beloved soundtrack for love stories across the years.

"Before I Let Go," Maze (feat. Frankie Beverly)

Lyrics you'll love: "Now here we are/Drivin' round town/Contemplating where I'm gonna lay you down"

This classic R&B love song, released in 1981, has not only stood the test of time but has become an anthem for love and togetherness. Its smooth and soulful melodies, coupled with Frankie Beverly's velvety vocals, create an atmosphere of warmth and affection that screams romance.

"I Would Die 4 U," Prince

Lyrics you'll love: "'Cause you/I would die 4 U, yeah/Darlin', if you want me to you/I would die 4 U"

Released in 1984 as part of his iconic Purple Rain album, this 90s R&B love song is a testament to Prince's musical genius and his ability to infuse raw passion into his work and belongs on every romantic R&B playlist.

"Queen Of My Heart," DeBarge

Lyrics you'll love: "I don't know why she love me so/Why I guess I'll never know/But I can tell she really care for me/So I'll give her love to last a lifetime"

This song's smooth, soulful rhythm makes it a perfect choice for a romantic evening. With its emotionally-charged storytelling and DeBarge's impeccable vocal delivery, "Queen Of My Heart" will add a touch of nostalgia and genuine sentiment to any R&B playlist.

"You Are My Lady," Freddy Jackson

Lyrics you'll love: "You are my lady, yes you are (my love)/Everything I need and more/You are my lady/You're all I'm living for"

Freddy Jackson's "You Are My Lady" features mellow instrumentation and passionate vocals that create an atmosphere of intimacy and devotion, making it a must-have track on any R&B love song playlist.

"I Want To Be Your Man," Roger

Lyrics you'll love: "Every time I see you walkin' by, I get a thrill/You don't notice me but in time, you will/I must make you understand"

Released in 1987 as part of the album Unlimited!, this R&B love song encapsulates the essence of 80s R&B with its smooth vocals and sensuous lyrics.

"Baby Be Mine," Michael Jackson

Lyrics you'll love: "I don't need no dreams when I'm by your side, ooh-ooh"

With an infectious bassline, shimmering synths and Michael's signature vocals, here's an R&B love song that doubles as an instant mood-booster.

"Nite and Day," Al B. Sure!

Lyrics you'll love: "I'll love you more in the rain or shine/And making love in the rain is fine"

"Nite and Day" by Al B. Sure! is a smooth, romantic slow song that perfectly captures the feeling of being lost in love.

70s R&B Love Songs

Whether it's Lenny Williams' "'Cause I Love You" or Al Green's "Let's Stay Together," these R&B love songs from the 70s continue to resonate with romantic moments today—and we love 'em for it.

"Have You Seen Her," The Chi-Lites

Lyrics you'll love: "Oh, I hear her voice as the cold winds blow/In the sweet music on my radio/Have you seen her/Tell me have you seen her"

Released in 1971, this classic showcases soulful harmonies and a melancholic melody that perfectly encapsulates the yearning and longing often associated with love.

"Let's Stay Together," Al Green

Lyrics you'll love: "Oh baby/Let's, let's stay together ('gether)/Lovin' you whether, whether/Times are good or bad, happy or sad"

Released in 1972, the song features silky-smooth vocals and a soulful melody that embodies the vibe of 70s R&B love songs — as well as the sentiment of commitment and unity in relationships.

"Silly," Deniece Williams

Lyrics you'll love: "You're just a lover out to score/And I know that I should be looking for more/What could it be in you I see/What could it be/Oh, Love, oh, love, stop making a fool of me"

This timeless ballad, released in 1981, presents Deniece Williams' exquisite vocal range and emotional depth, making it a perfect choice for setting a romantic mood.

"Yes, I'm Ready," Barbara Mason

Lyrics you'll love: "But I'm ready (ready) to learn (to learn)/Yes, I'm ready (ready) to learn (to learn)/To fall in love/To fall in love/To fall in love with you"

This song's enduring popularity and status as a pivotal track in R&B history ensure that it'll set the mood for a romantic evening, all while evoking a sense of nostalgia and young love.

"Forever Yours," The Sylvers

Lyrics you'll love: "Just as long as flowers bloom/You can forget your lonely room/Until the mountains turn to sand/Girl, you can always take my hand"

"Forever Yours" is considered an R&B gem that continues to resonate with listeners. It's a must-have on any playlist meant to ignite feelings of love and romance.

"'Cause I Love You," Lenny Williams

Lyrics you'll love: "Baby, I'm thinkin' of you/Tryin' to be more of a man for you"

Smooth and emotive, this Lenny Williams track will hit you right in the feels—guaranteed.

R&B Music Playlist

For easy listening, we've created this R&B music Playlist on Spotify. You're welcome ;)