by The R&B world is buzzing with fresh drops from some of the genre’s most beloved voices. From a legendary group making their long-awaited return to rising stars keeping the soulful essence alive, this week’s releases offer something for every true R&B lover. Jagged Edge delivers timeless harmonies with their new album ‘All Original Parts: Volume 1,’ while Muni Long sets the mood with her sultry new single “Slow Grind.” Veterans Eric Benét and Chanté Moore team up for the stunning duet, “So Distracted,” accompanied by a mesmerizing visual. Gina Thompson steps back into the spotlight with “Nobody,” proving her voice still holds weight in the game, and J. Brown unveils ‘Just A Matter Of Time,’ a project showcasing his smooth vocals and deep storytelling. Whether you’re in the mood for love, heartbreak, or feel-good vibes, these releases bring R&B’s richness straight to your speakers.
Jagged Edge – ‘All Original Parts: Volume 1’
Jagged Edge is back with their signature soulful harmonies and timeless R&B essence on ‘All Original Parts: Volume 1.’ The album drips with heartfelt lyricism, lush vocal arrangements, and that signature smooth-yet-street feel that made the group legendary. Songs like “Take Our Time” and “Ride for Me” showcase their refined storytelling, while tracks like “Can’t Let Go” deliver a throwback to their classic era. “We wanted to give our fans something that felt familiar but fresh,” Jagged Edge shared. “This album is about staying true to what real R&B is.”
Muni Long – “Slow Grind”
Muni Long takes listeners on a sensual, slow-burning ride with “Slow Grind,” a track dripping in smooth melodies and intoxicating rhythms. The song’s atmospheric production and Muni’s silky vocals create an intimate, late-night vibe reminiscent of classic 90s R&B, yet refreshed with a modern edge. “This one is for those real R&B lovers who appreciate the art of taking it slow,” she said. With her knack for crafting mesmerizing love ballads, “Slow Grind” is another testament to why Muni Long remains a mainstay in today’s R&B scene.
Eric Benét – “So Distracted” (feat. Chanté Moore)
Eric Benét and Chanté Moore bring grown and sexy back with the captivating visuals for “So Distracted.” The duet is a lush, jazz-infused R&B masterpiece, where Benét’s buttery falsetto and Moore’s crystalline vocals intertwine effortlessly. The accompanying music video follows the passionate push-and-pull of two lovers caught in an emotional whirlwind. “This song is about love’s complexities, how we crave it, chase it, and sometimes let it slip away,” Benét explained.
Gina Thompson – “Nobody”
Gina Thompson, the voice behind the 90s classic “The Things That You Do,” returns with “Nobody,” a sultry, mid-tempo groove that reintroduces her signature sound to today’s R&B audience. The song captures the essence of vulnerability and devotion with its hypnotic beat and emotionally charged lyrics. “This track is about realizing your worth and knowing when to walk away—or when to hold on,” Gina shared. Her return to the spotlight is a testament to her lasting impact on the genre.
J. Brown – ‘Just A Matter Of Time’
J. Brown solidifies his place in modern R&B with Just A Matter Of Time, a deeply personal album that blends rich, heartfelt deliveries with lush melodies and soulful cadences. Each track showcases his smooth vocals, from the uplifting ballads “True Love” and “My Whole Heart” to the feel-good, radio-ready “Red Flags.” “This album represents growth, love, and the lessons that come with it,” Brown stated. With influences ranging from classic soul to contemporary R&B, ‘Just A Matter Of Time’ proves J. Brown is a name to watch in the ever-evolving landscape of rhythm and blues.
Bonus: MARIAH. – “Hold On Me” (ft. Raheem DeVaughn)
On Valentine’s Day, rising star MARIAH. and Grammy Award-winning R&B artist Raheem DeVaughn graced The Kelly Clarkson Show with a breathtaking performance of their hit ballad, “Hold On Me.” Marking her return to the music scene after a brief hiatus, MARIAH. delivers a sultry, emotionally charged duet alongside DeVaughn, proving their collaboration is pure R&B magic. The song has already amassed over 3.5 million streams worldwide. “This beautiful song serves as an anthem about love and perspective,” states MARIAH.. “Love can have powerful effects on the mind, heart, and body; creating an inescapable embrace. The person becomes like an energy pack: charging and elevating his/her intended.”
