It’s no secret that R&B music is my favorite genre, and the best genre to find messages of love. Although today is Valentine’s Day, I wanted to create a playlist that works for any day and moment when you want a relaxing vibe and mood. The “neo-soul” genre is my most favorable type of music because I can connect to the artist and the production in a much deeper way, plus there’s so much poetry in the music. So with that said, here are 10 love songs that you can relax to, beginning with Floetry.
1. Floetry – Sunshine
The song and its message can be interpreted in different ways, but for me, it’s one of the best songs to describe the journey of self love.
2. D’Angelo – Send It On
This past January was the 20th anniversary of the recording process of D’Angelo’s VooDoo album. This is one of my personal favorite albums, and this song has so much room for you to daydream, relax, and focus on the sounds of the instruments.
3. Refugee Camp All-Stars – The Sweetest Thing
Love this video of Lauryn playing the guitar while she’s admired by this handsome guy. If you have never listened to the Love Jones Soundtrack, I suggest you go to Tidal, Spotify, or Apple Music now. You’re welcome.
4. 6lack, J. Cole – Pretty Little Fears
One of my favorite hip-hop songs that’s not afraid to express love and appreciation for their significant other. I’ve been listening to 6lack for a while now, and his music always has a soft tone vibe with a pure blend of R&B and Hip-Hop. However, I’m in awe of J. Cole’s beautiful verse.
5. The Internet – Hold On
I’m a new listener of The Internet, and this project blows me away. It’s my current go-to album when I need to ease my mind after a busy day.
6. Musiq – Dontchange
This video and the message makes me smile so much. To find someone who can love you through any obstacle you face, and all they ask is if your love for them doesn’t change—whew. I hope I can experience a lasting love like this one day. Beautiful song.
7. Summer Walker – CPR
Summer’s music is so soothing and authentic. As soon as I heard this and Girls Need Love, I have been hooked. I only wish most of her songs lasted more than 2 minutes —I’m that person who doesn’t mind listening to a 6 minute song, if the vibe is right.
8. Kindred the Family Soul – Stars
This couple makes such beautiful music, and they are worth seeing in concert. I’d suggest checking out their catalog of music, I’m sure you’ll find a song that relates to your relationship, friendship, or even love for family.
9. Teyana Taylor, Ghostface Killah, Method Man, Raekwon – Gonna Love Me Remix
I thought it was important to show how love can be complicated and imperfect. Of course, I wouldn’t consider staying in a toxic relationship, but I admire how the message tackles insecurity, drama, misunderstanding, and pain, which do come in a relationship. However, there are ways love can heal it all.
10. Maxwell – Ascension (Don’t Ever Wonder)
I love Maxwell. Particularly his Maxwell’s Urban Hang Suite album. A must have for the moments you spend with a significant other.
This list was pretty hard because I had a list of about 50 songs to choose from—which led me to add these two songs that I couldn’t leave out:
11. Bob Marley & The Wailers, Lauryn Hill – Turn Your Lights Down Low
I actually heard the original 1977 song before this version, but to me, they are basically two different songs with different tones. Lauryn brings so much soul and hip-hop to this version, and the video itself makes it even more beautiful.
12. Ari Lennox, J. Cole – Shea Butter Baby
LOVE. It was about time Ari and Cole made a song together, and I’m forever mesmerized by her voice. So excited for her upcoming album. The Creed 2 soundtrack is worth listening to as well.
There are so many songs in the universe that allows you to relax and enjoy the moment, but I hope the ones above were a great start to your journey of love. I hope you enjoy this Valentine’s Day with yourself or a loved one, and cheers to many loving days ahead.
