R&B Season Playlist Update: The Best Tracks to Close Out the Year

As the year winds down, the music industry is easing up on new releases. But fans of R&B still have a few gems to discover as they enter the holiday season. Our latest R&B Season playlist update showcases some of the best recent releases in the genre, delivering a fresh mix of soulful tracks to wrap up 2024 on a high note. Here are some standout selections, including new singles from Jacquees, Lola Young, and Cleo Sol, that we can’t wait for you to check out.

Jacquees – Touchdown (from Baby Making)

Jacquees’ new album, Baby Making, is exactly what fans have come to love about his sound: smooth, intimate, and emotionally charged. One track that truly shines on this project is “Touchdown.” The song opens with slow-burning drums and delicate guitar licks that immediately set a mellow vibe, enhanced by subtle background vocal harmonies that add depth and texture. Jacquees’ delivery is as passionate as ever, making it the perfect song to kick off this playlist. With its classic R&B vibe and modern production, “Touchdown” is a refreshing reminder of why Jacquees has such a dedicated fanbase.

Lola Young – Charlie ft. Lil Yachty

Lola Young’s latest single, “Charlie,” is another standout in this R&B Season update. Teaming up with Lil Yachty, the song brings together two distinct musical styles to create something uniquely captivating. “Charlie” opens with smoky, intimate tones, slowly building up with muted yet evolving drum patterns and electric guitar riffs that add a gruff texture to the production. Lola’s powerful, soaring vocals set the mood, delivering raw emotion and intensity. Lil Yachty’s steady, rhythmic flow provides a seamless contrast, blending his style with Lola’s in a way that feels fresh and authentic. The collaboration strikes the perfect balance between R&B soulfulness and hip-hop edge, making it a must-listen track this season.

Cleo Sol – Fear When You Fly

Cleo Sol brings something uniquely soothing and soulful to the playlist with her track “Fear When You Fly.” Known for her tender and introspective sound, Cleo delivers a guitar-led ballad that feels both raw and gentle. The song unfolds patiently, with drums only coming in about a third of the way through, creating a feeling of gradual growth and reflection. Cleo’s vocals here are truly captivating; she balances soft, intimate affirmations with powerful, soaring notes, seemingly reflecting on themes of companionship and vulnerability. A touch of brass and subtle background vocals add to the track’s emotional weight, making it a memorable and heartfelt inclusion.

A Quick Note on Hip-Hop

While R&B has given us some great tracks to close out the year, the hip-hop world has also been buzzing with major releases. Notably, Tyler, The Creator dropped “CHROMAKOPIA,” which has been turning heads across the genre. If you’re looking to explore the top picks from hip-hop, check out our Fire Emoji playlist in the “Read More” section below. It’s packed with the best hip-hop releases of the week, so you won’t miss a beat.

So, what’s your favorite addition to this week’s R&B Season playlist? Whether you’re vibing with Jacquees, resonating with Lola Young’s smoky duet, or reflecting on Cleo Sol’s heartfelt ballad, let us know in the comments. And don’t forget to follow our playlist above for the latest in R&B and more!