Albums are bodies of work that tells the stories of our favorite artists. Some of those stories may be good, bad, ugly or all of the above. I’m not going to lie to you: picking 100 of your favorite albums is TOUGH. Why you may ask? Because everyone’s music taste is different. I might think one album is the greatest album since sliced bread and everyone else might think it’s the most garbage album ever. But this isn’t about y’all. This is about ME and what I consider to be the best albums ever released.
This list will be based and ranked on my favorites from each mentioned artist & they may appear multiple times on this list but again do not attack me because this is based on my personal taste because I am real sensitive about my shit. Well here we go!
100. “Extension of a Man” by Donny Hathaway
Released: June 18, 1973
Label: Atco
Genre: Progressive soul ∙ R&B
Producer: Arif Mardin
Markiz’s favorites: I Love You More Than You’ll Ever Know ∙ Someday We’ll All Be Free ∙ Love, Love, Love ∙ Valdez in the Country ∙ I Know It’s You ∙ Magdalena ∙ Lord Help Me
A few years back, I was going through my late grandmother’s vinyl collection, and it inspired me to start my own. The 45s and the LPs that she owned in her lifetime were some good pieces of works, including a special album from Donny Hathaway titled Extension of a Man. If you want to talk about amazing albums from the 70s, this is one.
Extension of a Man showcases the beautiful and remarkable genius that was Donny. Some quality records exist on this album, including the beloved Someday We’ll All Be Free, which has become to be considered to be an anthem of encouragement for the struggles of Black people…when originally the song was a personal message to Donny for his difficulties with mental health.
Unfortunately, this album was Hathaway’s final studio album after his untimely passing in 1973. Extension of a Man is timeless masterpiece for sure, .
99. “Never Too Much” by Luther Vandross
Released: August 12, 1981
Label: Epic
Genre: R&B
Producer: Luther Vandross
Markiz’s favorites: Never Too Much ∙ Don’t You Know That? ∙ A House Is Not a Home ∙ She’s a Super Lady ∙ You Stopped Loving Me ∙ I’ve Been Working
Luther Vandross is one of the greatest musicians to ever grace a stage, and his catalog is a testament to that statement. His solo debut album Never Too Much is definitely a stellar album to come out of the 1980s. All seven songs on Never Too Much is a hit, and we have to understand this man’s genius because he was the sole producer on the album.
We get up tempo numbers and ballads that have stood the test of time. The title track has been a staple in Black households and cookouts for over 40 years, and true Luther fans appreciate the immaculate goodness in Don’t You Know That & A House Is Not a Home. Luther was in HIS bag!
98. “I Want You” by Marvin Gaye
Released: March 16, 1976
Label: Tamla
Genre: Soul ∙ funk ∙ quiet storm ∙ jazz-funk
Producer: Marvin Gaye ∙ Leon Ware ∙ Arthur “T-Boy” Ross
Markiz’s favorites: Come Live with Me Angel ∙ I Wanna Be Where You Are ∙ After the Dance ∙ Since I Had You ∙ Feel All My Love Inside ∙ Soon I’ll Be Loving You Again ∙ I Want You
I Want You is one of Marvin Gaye’s strongest works if you ask me. The iconic album cover of The Sugar Shack, the continuation of Let’s Get It On’s sexual and erotic themes and the influence it has had on the musical stylings of disco, quiet storm, R&B and neo soul makes it a standout in Marvin’s already ostentatious discography.
97.”I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You” by Aretha Franklin
Released: March 10, 1967
Label: Atlantic
Genre: Southern Soul
Producer: Jerry Wexler
Markiz’s favorites: Dr. Feelgood (Love Is a Serious Business) ∙ Do Right Woman, Do Right Man ∙ Soul Serenade ∙ Baby, Baby, Baby ∙ Respect ∙ Down in My Own Tears ∙ I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You)
Aretha Franklin was an established recording artist by the year of 1967, and it was definitely time for a change in her musical career. Previously signed to Columbia with minor success on the charts at the time, Aretha signed with Atlantic Records under the tutelage of Jerry Wexler, and the rest became history.
Franklin’s tenth studio album I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You was her commercial breakthrough and a groundbreaking introduction to why we truly call her the “Queen of Soul.” Her cover of Otis Redding’s Respect was flipped into an empowerment anthem for the Civil Rights & gender equality movements respectively, and has since become her most signature song. Aretha was bold, vocally superb and simply a genius on this Atlantic debut.
96. “Promise” by Sade
Released: 4 November 1985
Label: Epic
Genre: Jazz ∙ pop ∙ soul
Producer: Robin Millar ∙ Mike Pela ∙ Ben Rogan ∙ Sade
Markiz’s favorites: Jezebel ∙ Never as Good as the First Time ∙ Punch Drunk ∙ Tar Baby ∙ You’re Not the Man ∙ The Sweetest Taboo ∙ Mr Wrong ∙ Is It a Crime?
Promise has become one of my favorites from the band Sade, because of the MUSIC!! Every single song had potential to be a huge hit for them, and the songwriting from mama Adu is truly phenomenal. 10/10 easily! From the quiet storm masterpiece The Sweetest Taboo to the smooth jazz influenced Is It a Crime, Sade delivers and proves there’s no sophomore slump with them!
95. “DAMN” by Kendrick Lamar
Released: April 14, 2017
Label: TDE ∙ Aftermath ∙ Interscope
Genre: Conscious hip hop ∙ trap ∙ contemporary R&B ∙ pop
Producer: 9th Wonder ∙ The Alchemist ∙ BadBadNotGood ∙ Bekon∙ Cardo ∙ DJ Dahi ∙ Greg Kurstin ∙ James Blake ∙ Mike Will Made It ∙ Ricci Riera ∙ Sounwave ∙ Steve Lacy ∙ Terrace Martin ∙ Teddy Walton ∙ Top Dawg
Markiz’s favorites: Humble ∙ Loyalty ∙ Yah ∙ Pride ∙ Element ∙ DNA ∙ Love ∙ God ∙ XXX
Kendrick Lamar’s presence in hip hop has been very amazing to see since his debut album (2011’s Section.80). The inclusion of social commentary & political criticism on 2015’s To Pimp A Butterfly sparked a newer generation of consciousness in hip hop and Kendrick is one of those people to keep it going.
2017’s Damn captures the essence and complexities of modern Black life with the central theme of the duality of human nature.
94. “Rated R” by Rihanna
Released: November 20, 2009
Label: Def Jam ∙ SRP
Genre: Pop ∙ hip hop ∙ R&B
Producer: Chase & Status ∙ Terius “The-Dream” Nash ∙ Chuck Harmony ∙ Brian Kennedy ∙ Stargate ∙ C. “Tricky” Stewart ∙ Rob Swire ∙ will.i.am ∙ The Y’s
Markiz’s favorites: Cold Case Love ∙ G4L ∙ Fire Bomb ∙ Te Amo ∙ Russian Roulette ∙ Rockstar 101 ∙ The Last Song ∙ Rude Boy ∙ Hard ∙ Wait Your Turn ∙ Stupid in Love
***trigger warning: mentioning of domestic violence***
I like to think of Rated R as one of the most significant albums in Rihanna’s catalog. Having a darker and foreboding tone more than the singer’s prior albums at the time, Rated R is a coming of age record that implements themes of love, heartbreak, concerning perseverance and overcoming adversity.
Although the album was released after the singer’s domestic violence with then-boyfriend Chris Brown, Rated R is so much more than a response to her feelings towards the situation. Rated R is Rihanna’s journey to self-healing as a Black woman, & that is what sets Rihanna apart from the rest.
93. “Precious” by Chanté Moore
Released: September 29, 1992
Label: Silas ∙ MCA
Genre: R&B
Producer: Vassal Benford ∙ George Duke ∙ Lee “Patches” Hamblin ∙ Simon Law ∙ Laney Stewart ∙ BeBe Winans
Markiz’s favorites: It’s Alright ∙ Love’s Taken Over ∙ Precious ∙ Listen to My Song ∙ Sexy Thang ∙ Candlelight And You ∙ Because You’re Mine ∙ Who Do I Turn To
Chanté Moore’s musical journey began with her 1992 debut album Precious, and it is a masterpiece okay! It still boggles my mind how criminally underrated this woman is muscially, because this album gives us everything we want from an artist.
92. “Jaguar II” by Victoria Monét
Released: August 25, 2023
Label: Lovett Music ∙ RCA
Genre: R&B
Producer: D’Mile ∙ Deputy ∙ Dready ∙ Jeff Gitelman ∙ Kaytranada ∙ Tim Suby ∙ xSDTRK ∙ Yogi
Markiz’s favorites: Alright ∙ Party Girls ∙ How Does It Make You Feel ∙ Stop (Askin’ Me 4Shyt) ∙ On My Mama ∙ Smoke ∙ Cadillac (A Pimp’s Anthem) ∙ Goodbye
Victoria Monét is finally getting the recognition she deserves as one of the leading R&B girls of today. For over a decade, Victoria has been a songwriter for numerous artists, including herself. The release of her fifth EP Jaguar gave the singer-songwriter widespread acclaim and the breakthrough as an artist that she deserved from the get go. Her debut album Jaguar II continues the musical stylings and themes of the Jaguar EP with the singer being multi-dimensional, the good life and downright authentic 70s soul vibes that you can just play all the way through.
Victoria Monét shines on songs like the sensual R&B ballad How Does It Make You Feel, On My Mama, the Kaytranada produced Alright & Cadillac (A Pimp’s Anthem,) where the singer challenges the societal perceptions of women not having the range to be considered a “pimp.” Like Victoria makes you THINK, and the perfect execution of this album will make this one of the great ones 10-20 years from now.
91. “Emotions” by Mariah Carey
Released: September 17, 1991
Label: Columbia
Genre: R&B ∙ dance-pop ∙ gospel
Producer: Mariah Carey ∙ Walter Afanasieff ∙ David Cole ∙ Robert Clivillés
Markiz’s favorites: Till The End of Time ∙ If It’s Over ∙ And You Don’t Remember ∙ Can’t Let Go ∙ To Be Around You ∙ You’re So Cold ∙ The Wind ∙ Emotions ∙ Make It Happen
Mariah Carey’s self titled debut made her a household name overnight, and established her as one of the newest pop stars on the scene who could sing, write and produce their own work. Anticipation for Mariah’s next album was satisfied with Emotions. I always say Emotions is my favorite Mariah album because vocally it is one of her most ostentatious works.
Emotions pays homage to the 1950s-1960s balladry sound with elements of gospel, house, R&B/Soul and pop music. The album gave Mariah so much more creative control, and that gives examples as to why Mariah is underrated in regards to her production. SHE is the best. The quiet storm number Can’t Let Go is a classic ballad that shows how powerful Mariah’s vocals. The album cut To Be Around You is one of the strongest highlights on the album, with elements of house music.
The autobiographical inspirational record Make It Happen introduces music listeners to Mariah’s most remarkable gospel recordings. The elements of dance, house and R&B while sampling Alicia Myers’ I Want to Thank You makes the song fun and has Mariah being motivational in regards to making your biggest dreams become your reality.
90. “Rapture” by Anita Baker
Released: March 20, 1986
Label: Elektra
Genre: R&B ∙ soul ∙ quiet storm
Producer: Michael J. Powell ∙ Marti Sharron ∙ Gary Skardina
Markiz’s favorites: Sweet Love ∙ Caught Up in the Rapture ∙ Been So Long ∙ Mystery ∙ Same Ole Love (365 Days a Year) ∙ You Bring Me Joy
Anita Baker was no stranger to the music scene when Rapture was released. Rapture is one of the best quiet storm albums of all time. Anita’s voice is truly mesmerizing throughout this album. Like my GOD. Rapture was one of those albums that we heard on saturday mornings as kids when it was time to clean up and vibe. Rapture established Anita as a household name and has since become a national treasure in the world of R&B.
89. “The Low End Theory” by A Tribe Called Quest
Released: September 24, 1991
Label: Jive
Genre: East Coast hip hop ∙ alternative hip hop ∙ jazz rap
Producer: A Tribe Called Quest ∙ Skeff Anselm
Markiz’s favorites: Jazz (We’ve Got) ∙ Check the Rhime ∙ Scenario ∙ Vibes and Stuff ∙ Buggin’ Out ∙ Show Business ∙ Everything Is Fair ∙ What? ∙ Butter ∙ Rap Promoter ∙ Verses from the Abstract
A Tribe Called Quest’s The Low End Theory showcases the beautiful marriage between hip-hop and styles of jazz like bebop and hard bop. I had a period in college where I listened to ATCQ religiously, and this album was the most played. The subject matter of relationships, discussing date rap, the industry of hip-hop and consumerism takes the cake for me because I love to listen to bodies of work that tells STORIES. Honestly, like i mentioned..it gave jazz listeners an appreciation for the band because this band did a stellar job at showing how jazz gave birth to rap in a way. This was one of the first albums I had to get on vinyl because it’s hip-hop perfection.
88. “Music Box” by Mariah Carey
Released: August 31, 1993
Label: Columbia
Genre: Pop ∙ R&B
Producer: Mariah Carey ∙ Dave Hall ∙ Walter Afanasieff ∙ David Cole ∙ Robert Clivillés ∙ Babyface ∙ Daryl Simmons
Markiz’s favorites: Dreamlover ∙ Anytime You Need A Friend ∙ Music Box ∙ Now That I Know ∙ Without You ∙ Just to Hold You Once Again ∙ All I’ve Ever Wanted ∙ Everything Fades Away ∙ Workin’ Hard ∙ My Prayer ∙ All I Live For
1993’s Music Box solidified Mariah Carey as an international superstar, and rightfully so. The production and vocal maturity showcased on Music Box made me appreciate Mariah as the best of all time. With elements of pop, gospel, R&B and house, Music Box is one of the best-selling albums of all time, and her highest selling one to date.
87. “Bad” by Michael Jackson
Released: August 31, 1987
Label: Epic
Genre: Pop ∙ dance ∙ rock ∙ hard rock ∙ R&B ∙ soul ∙ funk
Producer: Quincy Jones ∙ Michael Jackson
Markiz’s favorites: Liberian Girl ∙ Bad ∙ Smooth Criminal ∙ I Just Can’t Stop Loving You ∙ Speed Demon ∙ Man in the Mirror ∙ Leave Me Alone
Releasing an album after the likes of Thriller had to put a lot of pressure on Michael Jackson, but I’m glad he got over it with the release of his seventh studio LP Bad. Bad marks Michael’s third and final collaboration with the legendary Quincy Jones, and had the singer adopting an edgier sound and image.
The lyrical themes of media bias, paranoia, racial profiling, romance, self-improvement and world peace made Bad one of the albums to redefine pop music in the late 80s. Bad was truly a pop masterpiece and has since continued to be one of the most celebrated & important albums from the 80s. Out of Michael’s albums, Bad stands out for being bold, innovative and timeless. There will never be another Michael Jackson.
86.”Baby It’s Me” by Diana Ross
Released: September 16, 1977
Label: Motown
Genre: Soul ∙ pop
Producer: Richard Perry
Markiz’s favorites: Too Shy to Say ∙ You Got It ∙ All Night Lover ∙ Gettin’ Ready for Love ∙ Come In from the Rain ∙ Confide in Me ∙ The Same Love That Made Me Laugh ∙ Baby it’s Me ∙ Your Love Is So Good for Me
Baby It’s Me was an album I came across of Diana’s in college, and I love everything about it. The album cover alone is giving “I am the OG rich auntie” vibes with the mink dragging on the floor. & Richard Perry (he’s worked with the likes of The Pointer Sisters, Harry Nilsson & Barbra Streisand,) being the producer made this album so memorable.
85. “To Pimp A Butterfly” by Kendrick Lamar
Released: March 15, 2015
Label: TDE ∙ Aftermath ∙ Interscope
Genre: Experimental hip hop ∙ progressive rap ∙ conscious hip hop ∙ jazz rap ∙ G-funk ∙ neo soul
Producer: Boi-1da ∙ Flippa ∙ Flying Lotus ∙ Knxwledge ∙ KOZ ∙ Larrance Dopson ∙ LoveDragon ∙ Pharrell Williams ∙ Rahki ∙ Sounwave ∙ Tae Beast ∙ Taz Arnold ∙ Terrace Martin ∙ Thundercat ∙ Tommy Black ∙ Whoarei
Markiz’s favorites: King Kunta ∙ Alright ∙ Institutionalized ∙ Hood Politics ∙ How Much a Dollar Cost ∙ U ∙ I ∙ You Ain’t Gotta Lie (Momma Said) ∙ The Blacker the Berry ∙ Mortal Man
Kendrick Lamar’s To Pimp A Butterfly changed hip hop when it dropped, and rightfully one of the best rap records of the 2010s decade period. I love everything about this album!
The lyricism, production and themes of racial inequality, depression, institutional discrimination, political commentary, black culture displayed on To Pimp A Butterfly created a better space for conscious hip hop to be commercially successful, especially during the height of the Black Lives Matter movement, where one of the songs (Alright) made it clear that Kendrick supported the movement and paid homage to the victims of police brutality. Kendrick Lamar will always reign supreme.
84. “The Jacksons” by The Jacksons
Released: November 5, 1976
Label: Epic ∙ Philadelphia International Records
Genre: Soul ∙ R&B ∙ funk ∙ Philadelphia soul
Producer: Kenneth Gamble & Leon Huff ∙ McFadden & Whitehead ∙ Victor Carstarphen ∙ Dexter Wansel ∙ The Jacksons
Markiz’s favorites: Show You the Way to Go ∙ Good Times ∙ Enjoy Yourself ∙ Dreamer ∙ Living Together ∙ Think Happy ∙ Blues Away ∙ Strength of One Man ∙ Style of Life
Known as the Jackson 5 throughout their career, the legendary family band signed with Epic Records after breaking their contracts with their former label Motown and replaced member and brother Jermaine with the youngest Jackson brother Randy. Their first album under the Epic label was simply titled, The Jacksons ..which also became their new band name.
The Jacksons album was the band’s most philly soul influenced album, and the Gamble & Huff touch was truly amazing. The smooth ballad Show You the Way to Go was the best song to come out of those sessions for me because it’s something that’s so stellar about it. The production, the vocals…just a true chef’s kiss. This album also gave the band their first hit in two years with the upbeat funk and disco influenced record Enjoy Yourself, showing that the band still was our favorite group of brothers.
83. “Affair” by Cherrelle
Released: October 19, 1988
Label: Tabu
Genre: R&B ∙ pop rock ∙ new jack swing
Producer: Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis ∙ Cherrelle ∙ Steve Hodge & Randy Ran
Markiz’s favorites: Happy That You’re Happy With Me ∙ Everything I Miss at Home ∙ Lucky ∙ Discreet ∙ Foolin’ Around ∙ Keep It Inside ∙ Looks Aren’t Everything ∙ Pick Me Up
Affair is one of my favorite albums to come out of the new jack swing era. Following the formula labelmate and frequent collaborator Alexander O’Neal followed with his 1987 concept album Hearsay, Affair is a concept album that explores the complexities of a soured relationship. While it was third and final album collaborating with Jam & Lewis, Affair is a top tier album with HITS!!!!
82. “Inseparable” by Natalie Cole
Released: May 11, 1975
Label: Capitol
Genre: R&B ∙ pop ∙ soul
Producer: Chuck Jackson ∙ Marvin Yancy ∙ Larkin Arnold
Markiz’s favorites: I Can’t Say No ∙ Inseparable ∙ You ∙ Joey ∙ Needing You ∙ Your Faces Stays in My Mind ∙ I Love Him So Much
Being the daughter of legendary jazz and pop crooner Nat King Cole, Natalie Cole had a tough time getting her music career off of the ground due to audiences wanting her to cover her father’s music. Inspired by artists like Janis Joplin & Aretha Franklin, Cole met musicians Marvin Yancy & Chuck Jackson and the rest was history. Natalie’s debut album Inseparable was released by “The House That Nat Built,” which was Capitol records of course. Inseparable will forever be one of my favorite albums because of the beautiful voice this woman had. The production and songwriting makes this album one of the most incredible debut albums ever released.
81. “4” by Beyoncé
Released: June 24, 2011
Label: Parkwood ∙ Columbia
Genre: R&B
Producer: Beyoncé Knowles ∙ Antonio Dixon ∙ Babyface ∙ Brent Kutzle ∙ Jeff Bhasker ∙ Diplo ∙ Kuk Harrell ∙ Kanye West ∙ Kaskade ∙ Luke Steele ∙ Los Da Mystro ∙ Ryan Tedder ∙ Shea Taylor ∙ Skyz Muzik ∙ Switch ∙ Symbolyc One ∙ The-Dream ∙ Tricky Stewart
Markiz’s favorites: Rather Die Young ∙ Party ∙ Dance for You ∙ Best Thing I Never Had ∙ Countdown ∙ Start Over ∙ Love On Top ∙ 1+1 ∙ End of Time ∙ I Care ∙ I Miss You ∙ Schoolin’ Life
I think 4 will always be one of my favorite Beyoncé albums of all time. 4 was an album that emphasized lyrical themes of female empowerment, monogamy, self-reflection and so much more.
Dissatisfied with contemporary radio at the time, in a interview she did..Beyonce stated she wanted to change that with her new album. Combining the likes of genres of R&B, hip-hop, dancehall, afrobeat, rock ‘n’ roll, etc from musical eras from the 70s & 90s, 4 is musically different from anything Bey did at the time and was absolutely an evolution.
She became focused on songs that will stand the test of time and could be songs that are classics and that she can sing when she is 60. & it was evident. 4 stands out in modern music for going back to the roots of traditional R&B and not contemporary music.
The title of the album being “4” came from being influenced by the fans, and the number being special to her in regards to her and Jay-Z’s birthdays being on the forth of their birthday months (September for Beyoncé and December for Jay,) and their wedding anniversary falling on the 4th of April. 4 remains a gem in Bey’s stellar discography.
80. “Angel of the Night” by Angela Bofill
Released: October 10, 1979
Label: GRP Records
Genre: soul ∙ jazz ∙ R&B
Producer: Dave Grusin ∙ Larry Rosen
Markiz’s favorites: I Try ∙ What I Wouldn’t Do (For the Love of You) ∙ Angel of the Night ∙ Rainbow Child (Little Pas) ∙ Love To Last ∙ The Voyage
Angel of the Night is one of the most peaceful albums I’ve ever heard, especially with the album cut and opener of the album (I Try). The elements of soul, jazz and R&B flow throughout this masterpiece, and is truly one of the best records released in 79!
79. “SOS” by SZA
Released: December 9. 2022
Label: Top Dawg • RCA
Genre: R&B
Producer: Aire Atlantica ∙ Babyface ∙ Beat Butcha ∙ Jeff Bhasker ∙ Rob Bisel ∙ Benny Blanco ∙ BLK ∙ Alessandro Buccellati ∙ Darkchild ∙ DJ Dahi ∙ Freaky Rob ∙ Teo Halm ∙ Emile Haynie ∙ Carter Lang ∙ Los Hendrix ∙ Will Miller ∙ Nascent ∙ The Rascals ∙ Scum ∙ Shellback ∙ Sir Dylan ∙ Skrrt ∙ ThankGod4Cody ∙ Michael Uzowuru ∙ Jay Versace ∙ Sammy Witte ∙Still Woozy ∙ Yakob ∙ Yuli
Markiz’s Favorites: Blind ∙ Snooze ∙ Used ∙ Love Language ∙ Open Arms ∙ I Hate U ∙ Good Days ∙ Conceited ∙ Forgiveless ∙ Shirt ∙ Far ∙ Special ∙ F2F ∙ Smoking on My Ex Pack ∙ Notice Me ∙ Kill Bill ∙ SOS ∙ Low ∙ Too Late
SZA’s evolution as an artist has been tremendous to see, and SOS is a continuation of that artistic growth. SOS is a R&B album with elements of hip hop pop, soul, gospel, jazz, country. surf/alt rock and grunge. The versatility was there and flows beautifully together as the songs transitions to the next. JUST remarkable!
The lyrical content of love, relationships, heartbreak, toxicity, insecurities, burning bridges, the art of letting go, and dissecting her own egotistical ways. SOS gives us our girl’s life in the past five years, and it was totally worth the wait. SZA stated on Hot 97 that the general theme is that she is pissed. & whewwww I totally get it. The album cover is literally the cherry on top. The cover art is heavily inspired by the photograph of Diana, Princess of Wales a week or so before she passed away.
I love SZA because whether if the music is autobiographical or not, she caters to her audience and knows how to use past or present pain in her music. We love an artist who makes relatable content period! SOS will be one of those albums that everyone will appreciate down the line and deem a classic album. At least I think it will be.
78. “Sparkle OST” by Aretha Franklin
Released: May 27, 1976
Label: Atlantic
Genre: R&B ∙ soul
Producer: Curtis Mayfield
Markiz’s favorites: Look into Your Heart ∙ Hooked on Your Love ∙ I Get High ∙ Something He Can Feel ∙ Sparkle ∙ Jump
When the iconic and legendary musician Curtis Mayfield was tapped for doing the soundtrack to the 1976 cult classic Sparkle, he was already behind the soundtracks for some of the biggest Black films of the 70s. To get a sense of what the soundtrack is all about, you have to understand the synopsis of the film.
Sparkle is a rags to riches story that is based on three sisters who start a girl group that ends up breaking apart due to issues each sister faces individually, and one sister (ironically named Sparkle) is the one who has a successful solo career. The film has themes of Black music having a huge impact on pop culture at the time, gender & sexuality, black power/blaxploitation & tragedy (dope, melancholia & the wrong man). The songs on the album tackles themes of love, romance, youth and hope…which the movie perfectly captures the essence of as well.
Although it was evident that the stars in the film (Irene Cara, Lonette McKee & Dwan Smith) were capable of executing the soundtrack as they did in the film, but Curtis wanted a seasoned entertainer to sing the soundtrack. There are reports that Carolyn Franklin (Aretha’s baby sister) was considered for the album, but Aretha heard the album and jumped at the opportunity and Curtis was sold.
Aretha Franklin was truly the Queen of Soul, & that was evident in this illustrious piece of work. Sparkle. Sparkle gave the singer her first number one album in a few years at the time. on the The Sparkle soundtrack is truly one of those timeless soundtracks that you have to appreciate.
77. “Irons in the Fire” by Teena Marie
Released: July 6, 1980
Label: Motown
Genre: Soul ∙ funk ∙ disco ∙ R&B
Producer: Teena Marie
Markiz’s favorites: I Need Your Lovin’ ∙ Young Love ∙ Irons in the Fire ∙ Chains ∙ You Make Love Like Springtime ∙ Tune in Tomorrow
I don’t think there’s a R&B enthusiast alive that would say Teena Marie isn’t one of their favorites. Teena was an ARTIST, okay! She could not only give you vocals, but she was a talented musician and producer.
Teena’s third studio album Irons in the Fire came 6 months after “Lady T.” Written & Produced solely by Teena, she became one of the first artists that was a woman to arrange and produce their own album (a rarity at the time). Considered to be a personal favorite of Teena’s, Irons In The Fire is a R&B masterpiece, even 40 years later.
The soul/R&B record with elements of funk & disco is mesmerizing to say the least. The 8 songs on the record, makes it even more special because it has no skips, and Teena Marie has an enchanted love affair with soulful music.
76. “Controversy” by Prince
Released: October 14, 1981
Label: Warner Bros.
Genre: Pop ∙ new wave ∙ funk ∙ rock ∙ R&B
Producer: Prince
Markiz’s favorites: Controversy ∙ Do Me, Baby ∙ Private Joy ∙ Annie Christian ∙ Let’s Work ∙ Sexuality ∙ Ronnie, Talk to Russia
Controversy is one of my favorite Prince albums, & rightfully so. The classic album tackles various themes like politics, sexuality, current event topics at the time of its release and much more under the elements of new wave, funk, rock & R&B. Do Me, Baby alone is a flawless piece of work. Top TIER!!!!
75. “Love Deluxe” by Sade
Released: 26 October 1992
Label: Epic
Genre: Ambient • cool jazz • trip hop
Producer: Sade
Markiz’s favorites: Like a Tattoo ∙ Pearls ∙ Kiss of Life ∙ No Ordinary Love ∙ Feel No Pain ∙ Cherish the Day
The idea is that it’s one of the few luxury things that you can’t buy. You can buy any kind of love, but you can’t get love deluxe.
Sade Adu, 1992
A lot of people don’t consider Love Deluxe to be amongst Sade’s strongest albums, and I have to disagree with that clearly biased opinion, because the songs are classics and was a huge departure from the sound at the time which was new jack swing influenced. Love Deluxe gives us more of Sade Adu’s magnificent vocals than prior albums (where they touched more on the magic of the group’s production that made them a household name). Love Deluxe will go down in history as one of the greatest albums from the 1990s that actually had a story to tell.
74. “Nothing Was The Same” by Drake
Released: September 24, 2013
Label: OVO ∙ Young Money ∙ Cash Money ∙ Republic
Genre: Hip hop
Producer: 40 ∙ Boi-1da ∙ Detail ∙ DJ Dahi ∙ Hagler ∙ Jordan Evans ∙ Key Wane ∙ Majid Jordan ∙ Mike Zombie ∙ Nineteen85 ∙ Sampha
Markiz’s favorites: Worst Behavior ∙ Wu-Tang Forever ∙ Tuscan Leather ∙ Too Much ∙ All Me ∙ Come Thru ∙ Pound Cake / Paris Morton Music 2 ∙ 305 to My City ∙ The Language ∙ Own It ∙ Furthest Thing ∙ Connect ∙ Hold On, We’re Going Home
My favorite Drake album is Nothing Was the Same. It truly was one of the best albums from 2013 and of all time if you ask me. I truly believe that every song on the album was worthy of being a hit. & that’s when Drake became one of my favorite artists. The production was truly stellar, his flow was cold. The single choices were fire. Like my God the ARTISTRY!!!!
73. “Superfly OST” by Curtis Mayfield
Released: July 11, 1972
Label: Curtom
Genre: psychedelic soul ∙ funk ∙ progressive soul ∙ cinematic soul
Producer: Curtis Mayfield
Markiz’s favorites: Little Child Runnin’ Wild ∙ Pusherman ∙ Freddie’s Dead ∙ Give Me Your Love (Love Song) ∙ Think ∙ Superfly
It’s really rare that soundtrack albums really grasp my attention, but it is something special about Curtis Mayfield’s Superfly that makes him truly one of the greatest musicians to ever grace the planet. Everything about Superfly is simply remarkable: production, lyrical content, the whole nine.
The album served as the soundtrack to the 1972 blaxploitation film of the same name. Directed by Gordon Parks, Jr, Superfly was about a cocaine dealer is who trying to get out of the drug business.
Superfly also serves as one of the most pioneering soul concept albums, along Marvin Gaye’s What’s Going On. The socially conscious lyrics about poverty and drug abuse makes Superfly ahead of its time and a timeless record that truly stands the test of time. In 2019, the album was selected by the Library of Congress for preservation in the National Recording Registry for being “culturally, historically or aesthetically significant.”
Superfly is truly one of the best movie soundtracks of all time, and influenced GENERATIONS of soundtracks to come. After the success of Superfly, Curtis would go on be selected to do the music score for several classic films from the 70s, and be one of the most iconic producers of all time. Not only did the soundtrack out grossed the film, but it is funk & psychedelic soul goodness
72. “Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel” by Mariah Carey
Released: September 29, 2009
Label: Island
Genre: R&B • pop
Producer: Mariah Carey • James “Big Jim” Wright • Heatmyzer • Los Da Mystro • Christopher “Tricky” Stewart • Terius “The-Dream” Nash
Markiz’s favorites: Betcha Gon’ Know (The Prologue) ∙ H.A.T.E.U. ∙ Candy Bling ∙ It’s a Wrap ∙ Up Out My Face ∙ The Impossible ∙ Ribbon ∙ Inseparable ∙ More than Just Friends
Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel is just one of Mariah’s best albums all around. It’s definitely one of my favorites out of her catalog, because I truly believe Mariah makes albums just for me. She just understands the assignment. Each song tells its own story and reflects on different times in Mariah’s life. The themes of women’s empowerment and overcoming things are prevalent throughout the album. It’s truly a masterpiece.
71. “Fire” by Ohio Players
Released: November 1974
Label: Mercury
Genre: Funk ∙ soul
Producer: Ohio Players
Markiz’s favorites: I Want to Be Free ∙ It’s All Over ∙ What the Hell ∙ Fire ∙ Smoke ∙ Together ∙ Runnin’ from the Devil
Ohio Players are one of the most electrifying funk bands of all time, with their run in the 70s being a wonderful time in music. The band’s Fire album is one of the LPs from their classic lineup of albums during that decade and is one of my favorites for sure! The title track alone is nostalgic af, and I Want to be Free? MAN timeless!
70. “Vanity 6” by Vanity 6
Released: August 11, 1982
Label: Warner Bros.
Genre: R&B ∙ funk rock
Producer: Prince (as The Starr ★ Company)
Markiz’s favorites: Nasty Girl ∙ If a Girl Answers (Don’t Hang Up) ∙ Wet Dream ∙ He’s So Dull ∙ 3 x 2 = 6 ∙ Bite the Beat ∙ Drive Me Wild
I remember being younger and being so enamored by the greatness of Nasty Girl, a top ten hit for the group named Vanity 6. The self-titled debut album from Vanity 6 was one of the most remarkable and prolific albums of 1982. The band was created by the legendary artist Prince (who wrote and produced the album under the pseudonym The Starr Company,) Vanity 6 is playful, fun and energetic! Definitely a classic funk album.
69. “Channel Orange” by Frank Ocean
Released: July 10, 2012
Label: Def Jam
Genre: Alternative R&B • progressive soul • neo soul
Producer: Frank Ocean • Jonathan Ikpeazu • Malay • Om’Mas Keith • Pharrell Williams • Shea Taylor • Tyler, The Creator
Markiz’s favorites: Sweet Life ∙ Super Rich Kids ∙ Pink Matter ∙ Pyramids ∙ Sierra Leone ∙ Fertilizer ∙ Crack Rock ∙ Thinkin Bout You ∙ Pyramids ∙ Forrest Gump ∙ White ∙ Pilot Jones ∙ Lost
Frank Ocean has become one of the most beloved artists in the past decade. His debut album Channel Orange stands out from the albums of 2012 for its usage of nonmusical sounds such as film dialogue and ambient noises and its themes of unrequited love, sex, classism, escapism, religion, sexuality, substance abuse and existential longing. With elements of alternative R&B, progressive soul, neo soul, electro-funk, jazz-funk and psychedelic vibes, Frank Ocean’s Channel Orange will forever go down in history as one of the best debut albums of the 2010s. It gave new life to the world of alternative R&B and pop culture period.
68. “Brown Sugar” by D’Angelo
Released: July 3, 1995
Label: EMI
Genre: Neo soul ∙ R&B ∙ soul ∙ funk ∙ jazz
Producer: D’Angelo ∙ Bob Power ∙ Ali Shaheed Muhammad ∙ Raphael Saadiq
Markiz’s favorites: Sh★t, Damn, Motherf★cker ∙ Brown Sugar ∙ Cruisin’ ∙ Lady ∙ Smooth ∙ Me and Those Dreamin’ Eyes of Mine ∙ Jonz in My Bonz ∙ When We Get By ∙ Higher
D’Angelo is known as a sex symbol in the music world, but his contributions to the genre of R&B are more important matters to discuss. The singer’s debut album Brown Sugar is a masterpiece and one of the albums to pioneer the neo soul sound. The elements of R&B/soul, funk and jazz blends so beautifully with his silky smooth vocals.
67. “When I Get Home” by Solange
Released: March 1, 2019
Label: Columbia
Genre: R&B • jazz • psychedelic soul • funk • hip hop • new-age-trap • ambient
Producer: Solange Knowles • Chassol • Daniel Julez J Smith II • Dev Hynes • Duval Timothy • Earl Sweatshirt • Jamire Williams • John Carroll Kirby • John Key • Metro Boomin • Panda Bear • Pharrell Williams • Standing on the Corner • Steve Lacy • Tyler, The Creator
Markiz’s favorites: Dreams ∙ Down with the Clique ∙ Jerrod ∙ Binz ∙ My Skin My Logo ∙ Almeda ∙ Stay Flo ∙ Sound of Rain ∙ Beltway ∙ Way to the Show
The follow up to Solange Knowles’ 2016 album A Seat at the Table, When I Get Home is a blend of “cosmic” jazz, hip hop & R&B, with elements of psychedelic soul, trap music and much more. Everything about this album is electrifying, addictive & legendary. There’s even a movie Solange made for the album. & the visuals are truly flawless & make me want to pack my bags and move to Texas, because Solange Knowles is truly one of the most remarkable entertainers ever.
When I Get Home is a love letter to Solange’s hometown of Houston, Texas, which is known for the technique of remixing hip hop music (Chopped and screwed,) which is an element Solange utilizes for the album. Another beautiful fact about this album is that it is narrated by sampled Black women from the city’s Third Ward area, where Solange grew up.
When I Get Home celebrates feminism and black culture in the southern part of the US. When I Get Home is an album I truly enjoy from start to finish. When I first listened, I strongly compared it to A Seat at the Table. But after I strongly sat and listened to it, it is truly a masterpiece. It makes me want to move to Houston even more to absorb the amazing atmosphere I’ve always heard about it. One thing about Solange, is she ADORES her hometown. This album is a true testament to that.
66. ‘The Heat” by Toni Braxton
Released: April 25, 2000
Label: LaFace
Genre: R&B ∙ pop ∙ dance-pop
Producer: Teddy Bishop ∙ Bryan-Michael Cox ∙ Keith Crouch ∙ LaShawn Daniels ∙ David Foster ∙ Kevin Hicks ∙ Phalon “Jazze Pha” Alexander ∙ Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins ∙ Keri Lewis ∙ Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds ∙ Daryl Simmons.
Markiz’s favorites: He Wasn’t Man Enough ∙ The Art of Love ∙ Speaking in Tongues ∙ Maybe ∙ Spanish Guitar ∙ Just Be a Man About It ∙ You’ve Been Wrong ∙ Never Just for a Ring ∙ The Heat
Toni Braxton’s The Heat will forever be on the best R&B albums of all time. Her third LP after blockbuster albums like 1993’s self-titled debut & 1996’s Secrets, The Heat is more sultry, seductive and confident than the prior albums. The Heat just showcases the power, beauty and talent that Toni Braxton possesses and masters so eloquently.
65. “Naughty” by Chaka Khan
Released: March 26, 1980
Label: Warner Bros.
Genre: Funk ∙ R&B ∙ soul
Producer: Arif Mardin
Markiz’s favorites: Clouds ∙ Nothing’s Gonna Take You Away ∙ So Naughty ∙ Move Me No Mountain ∙ Papillon (a.k.a. Hot Butterfly ) ∙ Our Love’s in Danger ∙ So Naughty ∙ Too Much Love ∙ All Night’s All Right
Naughty is a soulful funky masterpiece. With production from Arif Mardin, he & Chaka were a great duo! Naughty is everything you can expect from Chaka. It’s one of my personal favorites, & is a solid gold record from our favorite Aries legend.
64. “Never Say Never” by Brandy
Released: June 9, 1998
Label: Atlantic
Genre: Pop ∙ R&B
Producer: Brandy Norwood ∙ Rodney Jerkins ∙ Dallas Austin ∙ David Foster ∙ Fred Jerkins III ∙ Brad Gilderman ∙ Harvey Mason, Jr. ∙ Marc Nelson ∙ Guy Roche
Markiz’s favorites: Angel in Disguise ∙ The Boy Is Mine ∙ Learn the Hard Way ∙ Almost Doesn’t Count ∙ Have You Ever? ∙ U Don’t Know Me (Like U Used To) ∙ Never Say Never ∙ Truthfully ∙ Top of the World ∙ Tomorrow ∙ (Everything I Do) I Do It for You
Never Say Never is easily one of my favorite albums! Sis had all kinds of time! This album began the working relationship between Brandy & Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins. What makes this album timeless is the lyrics and production is pure quality! 🙌🏾 Angel in Disguise, Learn The Hard Way & Have You Ever are my highlights from this record, based on the fact that Brandy was serving the girls VOCALS! That’s why she’s called the vocal bible. 🙌🏾
63. “Share My World” by Mary J. Blige
Released: April 22, 1997
Label: MCA
Genre: R&B
Producer: Steve Stoute ∙ Babyface ∙ Bryce Wilson ∙ George Pearson ∙ James Mtume ∙ Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis ∙ Malik Pendleton ∙ Poke & Tone ∙ Rodney Jerkins ∙ R. Kelly
Markiz’s favorites: I Can Love You ∙ Love Is All We Need ∙ Share My World ∙ Seven Days ∙ Get to Know You Better ∙ Searching ∙ Not Gon’ Cry ∙ Round and Round ∙ It’s On ∙ Everything ∙ Our Love
Mary J. Blige reigns supreme always and forever! Blige’s third studio Share My World was just the beginning of Mary’s path down the road to the land of legendary R&B queens. Share My World showcased a side of Mary where she was maturing and longing to make changes in her personal and professional life. The positivity and lighter vibes Share My World gives sets it apart from her breakthrough album My Life.
62. “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” by Kanye West
Released: November 22, 2010
Label: Def Jam ・Roc-A-Fella
Genre: Hip hop ・progressive rap ・pop・art pop ・rap opera
Producer: Bink ・DJ Frank E・Kanye West・Mike Dean・No I.D. ・RZA ・S1
Markiz’s favorites: All of the Lights ∙ Devil in a New Dress ∙ Dark Fantasy ∙ Power ∙ Gorgeous ∙ Monster ∙ Runaway
Kanye West is one of the greatest and most influential hip hop artists of all time. With his fifth studio album My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy was a marriage of genres with influences of pop, hip hop, rap opera, soul, electro, and baroque blending together so beautifully. My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy is truly Kanye’s best work, and you can’t convince me otherwise.
Along with being a genre-bending affair, the album was also heavily influenced by Kanye’s rocky relationship with then-girlfriend model Amber Rose. Thematically, the album exposes the darkest sides of celebrity, fame, self-doubt, escapism, wealth, love, race, consumer culture and the idealism of the “American Dream.”
With My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, Kanye proved that despite the outrageous things he does, it should not overshadow his legacy and his genius as a whole. I’ve been a Kanye fan since the beginning, and being able to see his growth as an artist has been tremendous to see. A true legend at heart.
61. “Make It Last Forever” by Keith Sweat
Released: November 24, 1987
Label: Vintertainment • Elektra
Genre: new jack swing
Producer: Teddy Riley • Keith Sweat
Markiz’s favorites: Right and A Wrong Way ∙ In the Rain ∙ I Want Her ∙ Don’t Stop Your Love ∙ Something Just Ain’t Right ∙ Tell Me It’s Me You Want ∙ Make It Last Forever ∙ How Deep Is Your Love?
Many artists have released new jack swing influenced music, but when it comes to KEITH SWEAT?! He is one of the originators of New Jack Swing, and we can thank Keith Sweat’s debut album Make It Last Forever.
Produced by Keith & Teddy Riley, Make It Last Forever is one of the earliest R&B albums that showcased the new jack swing sound. In the era where artists like Aretha, Whitney, Luther, Anita..hell even Janet were heating up the airwaves, hip hop was going even further..& with New Jack Swing being the marriage of R&B & hip hop, we forever have to give Teddy Riley his flowers, along with Keith. A flawless R&B debut album.
60. “Sweetener” by Ariana Grande
Released: August 17, 2018
Label: Republic
Genre: Pop • R&B • Trap
Producer: Charles Anderson • Brian Malik Baptiste • Tommy Brown • Michael Foster • Hit-Boy • Ilya • Max Martin • Pharrell Williams
Markiz’s favorites: borderline ∙ get well soon ∙ God is a woman ∙ breathin ∙ no tears left to cry ∙ sweetener ∙ blazed ∙ the light is coming ∙ goodnight n go ∙ R.E.M. ∙ successful
Ariana Grande has become one of pop music’s most intriguing and remarkable vocalists within the past decade, and her fourth studio album Sweetener is a testament to that statement. With elements of pop, R&B, trap, neo soul, house, funk and hip hop, Sweetener tackles themes of romance, intimacy, anxiety, sex, unhealthy relationships and perseverance through hardships. Sweetener has become not only one of my favorite Ariana albums, but one of the best album in the past decade. Sweetener is truly a flawless album that stands a test of time, especially with the message behind it.
Sweetener showcased Ariana’s versatility as an artist, with the heavy usage of trap influenced records along with many other sub genres. The album showcases how important hip hop is to pop culture. She collaborated with some of hip hop’s legendary acts like Nicki Minaj, Missy Elliott & Pharrell Williams. A lot of people don’t appreciate Sweetener’s greatness, but I do!
The lyrical content on this album helps you understand how important it is to face your trauma, relationships and anxiety…and how to get through it. Ariana Grande uses this album to incorporate messages like positivity, love and resilience throughout and is a true masterpiece.
59. “The Comfort Zone” by Vanessa Williams
Released: August 20, 1991
Label: Wing ∙ Mercury
Genre: R&B
Producer: Vanessa Williams ∙ Keith Thomas ∙ Brian McKnight ∙ Kenni Hairston ∙ Derek Bramble ∙ Gerry Brown ∙ Bruce Carbone ∙ Dave Darlington ∙ DJ L.A. Jay ∙ Ed Eckstine ∙ Kipper Jones ∙ Phase 5 ∙ Mark Stevens ∙ Reggie Stewart.
Markiz’s favorites: Running Back to You ∙ Still in Love ∙ The Comfort Zone ∙ What Will I Tell My Heart? ∙ Save the Best for Last ∙ Just for Tonight ∙ Better off Now ∙ One Reason ∙ Strangers Eyes ∙ You Gotta Go ∙ Work to Do
Vanessa Williams’ The Comfort Zone is one of my comfort records, and rightfully so. It is a R&B masterpiece!!!!
58. “A Nu Day” by Tamia
Released: October 10, 2000
Label: Elektra
Genre: R&B
Producer: Dallas Austin ∙ Bink! ∙ Shep Crawford ∙ Missy Elliott ∙ Errol McCalla ∙ Jazz Nixon
Markiz’s favorites: Un’h…to You ∙ Love Me in a Special Way ∙ Long Distance Love ∙ Stranger in My House ∙ Dear John ∙ Wanna Be ∙ Can’t No Man ∙ Tell Me Who
A Nu Day is one of those R&B albums that I had to appreciate as an adult. Yes, we all know the nostalgic Stranger In My House…but the album cuts makes this album one of the best to come out of the year 2000. A stellar album from the Canadian songbird.
57. “In a Special Way” by DeBarge
Released: September 24, 1983
Label: Gordy
Genre: R&B
Producer: El DeBarge
Markiz’s favorites: Time Will Reveal ∙ Love Me In a Special Way ∙ A Dream ∙ Queen of My Heart ∙ Be My Lady ∙ Stay With Me
In A Special Way is my favorite DeBarge album. Why? It’s a bonafide CLASSIC! It had amazing hits and the songwriting was just immaculate. The harmonies on the songs were IT! The gospel inspired Love Me In A Special Way, Stay With Me, Time Will Reveal are important songs in R&B history. & A DREAM? Sung by THE Bunny DeBarge? GREATNESS. SHOW STOPPING. BRILLIANT.
56. “Natalie Live!” by Natalie Cole
Released: June 13, 1978
Label: Capitol
Genre: R&B ∙ soul
Producer: Chuck Jackson ∙ Marvin Yancy ∙ Gene Barge
Markiz’s favorites: Cry Baby ∙ Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds ∙ Something’s Got a Hold on Me ∙ Party Lights ∙ This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) ∙ I Can’t Say No ∙ I’ve Got Love on My Mind ∙ Inseparable ∙ Que Sera, Sera ∙ Can We Get Together Again ∙ Be Thankful ∙ Our Love
Natalie Live is easily one of the most amazing live albums you’ll ever hear in your life. The late and great Natalie Cole shines the best through her most known hits at the time this album was being recorded, and through her covers of songs by The Beatles, Etta James & Janis Joplin. SIMPLY INCREDIBLE!
55. “It’s About Time” by SWV
Released: October 27th, 1992
Label: RCA
Genre: New Jack Swing
Producer: Donald “Dee” Bowden, Michael Brown, Saphreem King, Brian Alexander Morgan, Gendard Parker
Markiz’s favorites: Anything ∙ It’s About Time ∙ Think You’re Gonna Like It ∙ That’s What I Need ∙ Right Here (Human Nature Remix) ∙ Weak ∙ Downtown ∙ You’re Always on My Mind ∙ I’m So into You
SWV (Sisters With Voices) is one of the best girl groups of all time. Cheryl “Coko” Gamble, Tamara “Taj” Johnson-George & Leanne “Lelee” Lyons have voices of angels and we’ve had a love affair with them since their debut album, It’s About Time. It’s About Time is a flawless R&B album with elements Of the sub genre New Jack Swing. From start to finish, but it is a great collection of R&B ballads, uptempo numbers influenced by New Jack Swing and hip-hop.
Coko is the lead singer, and showcases her Gospel roots as the soprano and has been named a vocal acrobat. Taj is the group’s mezzo-soprano, giving a more jazzy and blues sound to her voice. Lelee is the group’s contralto, singing the lower parts. It’s About Time showed the world that it IS their time..and they were here to stay.
54. “Prince” by Prince
Released: October 19, 1979
Label: Warner Bros.
Genre: R&B ∙ funk ∙ pop ∙ rock ∙ disco ∙ soul
Producer: Prince
Markiz’s favorites: I Feel for You ∙ It’s Gonna Be Lonely ∙ I Wanna Be Your Lover ∙ Sexy Dancer ∙ Bambi ∙ When We’re Dancing Close and Slow ∙ With You ∙ Why You Wanna Treat Me So Bad
Serving as the follow up to the 1978 debut album For You, the eponymous Prince album is one of my favorites out of the singer’s ostentatious discography because of the songwriting and production alone. Written, arranged, composed, produced and performed entirely by Prince, the album was recorded in five weeks. The talent on this album stands out with every single track!
53. “We Are Family” by Sister Sledge
Released: January 22, 1979
Label: Cotillion
Genre: Disco ∙ R&B ∙ soul
Producer: Nile Rodgers ∙ Bernard Edwards
Markiz’s favorites: He’s the Greatest Dancer ∙ We Are Family ∙ Easier to Love ∙ Somebody Loves Me ∙ You’re a Friend to Me ∙ Thinking of You
Sister Sledge’s third studio album We Are Family is a Disco masterpiece, and one of the genre’s best albums period. On the listening journey of this great album, we experience the sisters’ impeccable vocals which blends well with the stellar production from the producing geniuses Nile Rodgers & Bernard Edwards (of Chic fame).
It’s easy to refer to the title track (which is an iconic disco classic) or the entrancing He’s The Greatest Dancer, but the sisters shine on the mesmerizing upbeat numbers Lost In Music & Thinking of You and the ballad Somebody Loves Me that makes me fall more and more in love with the album. 10/10!
52. “Sharp” by Angela Winbush
Released: September 1987
Label: Mercury
Genre: R&B ∙ soul
Producer: Angela Winbush
Markiz’s favorites: Run to Me ∙ Angel ∙ Hello Beloved ∙ You Had a Good Girl ∙ Sensual Lover ∙ Sharp ∙ Imagination of the Heart ∙ No One Has Ever Cared (Like You)
Angela Winbush is a R&B legend that I treasure and appreciate 1000%. Her solo career kicked off with Sharp after severing ties with her bandmate René Moore, which ended their sucessful run as a duo. But SHARP?! I am forever going to be intrigued by the talent on this album ALONEEEEEEEEEEE sets her apart from her peers at the time. Angela’s lead single Angel alone will always be the BEST quiet storm jam from 1987 and of all time. Sharp is literally sharp, and one of the best R&B debut albums period.
51. “Private Dancer” by Tina Turner
Released: May 29, 1984
Label: Capitol
Genre: Pop ∙ rock ∙ R&B
Producer: Terry Britten ∙ Carter ∙ Leon “Ndugu” Chancler ∙ Wilton Felder ∙ Rupert Hine ∙ Joe Sample ∙ Greg Walsh ∙ Martyn Ware
Markiz’s favorites: I Can’t Stand the Rain ∙ What’s Love Got to Do with It ∙ Private Dancer ∙ Let’s Stay Together ∙ Show Some Respect ∙ I Might Have Been Queen ∙ Better Be Good to Me
Tina Turner is the QUEEN of Rock ‘n’ Roll! Having a career than spans over 5 decades, Tina has showed the girls how to be an ENTERTAINER! From her remarkable stage presence, powerhouse vocals, & infamous legs, Tina will forever be IT. After divorcing her husband and frequent collaborator Ike Turner, Tina reestablished her career with the remarkable and bold Private Dancer. A bold declaration of redemption, liberation and triumph, the singer reclaimed her career, and simply made herself forever The Queen of Rock & Roll with this masterpiece.
50. “Honey” by Ohio Players
Released: August 16, 1975
Label: Mercury
Genre: soul ∙ funk ∙ R&B
Producer: Ohio Players
Markiz’s favorites: Let’s Do It ∙ Love Rollercoaster ∙ Sweet Sticky Thing ∙ Honey ∙ Alone ∙ Fopp
the Ohio Players were a badass band in the late 60s-mid 70s! They’re known for their hit songs and erotic album covers. Blending funk & R&B/Soul together, Ohio Players were simply flawless and was one of the biggest influences on the sub genre G-Funk (gangsta-funk).
Honey is the group’s seventh studio album and is considered their best album. Everything about Honey is immaculate: the aesthetics, music, everything. The album cover is a shot of Playboy magazine’s October 1974 Playmate of the Month Ester Cordet, nude & holding a jar of honey in one hand, and swallowing a spoonful with the other. The album also won a Grammy Award for Best Album Cover Art..
49. “Confessions” by Usher
Released: March 23, 2004
Label: Arista
Genre: R&B
Producer: Jermaine Dupri ∙ Destro Music ∙ Lil’ Jon ∙ Rich Harrison ∙ Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis ∙ Robin Thicke ∙ Bryan-Michael Cox ∙ Just Blaze ∙ Dre & Vidal ∙ Bobby Ross Avila ∙ James “Big Jim” Wright
Markiz’s favorites: Throwback ∙ Caught Up ∙ Superstar ∙ Simple Things ∙ That’s What It’s Made For ∙ Do It to Me ∙ Bad Girl ∙ Can U Handle It? ∙ My Boo ∙ Truth Hurts ∙ Burn ∙ Confessions Part II ∙ Follow Me ∙ Take Your Hand ∙ Yeah!
Confessions solidified Usher as an icon in the world of music. Boy oh boy, his album really was one of the best albums of 2004 and of all time period. Confessions set the tone for our celebrities to be more candid and open about the messiness of their personal lives. It’ll always be a true masterpiece.
48. “Zapp” by Zapp
Released: July 30, 1980
Label: Warner Bros.
Genre: Electro-funk
Producer: Roger Troutman ∙ Bootsy Collins
Markiz’s favorites: Be Alright ∙ More Bounce to the Ounce ∙ Coming Home ∙ Freedom ∙ Funky Bounce ∙ Brand New Player
Debut albums always have the gems, and Zapp’s self titled album was no exception. Think about it: MORE BOUNCE TO THE OUNCE, BE ALRIGHT, FUNKY BOUNCE AND COMING HOME?! From beginning to end, this group brought electro funk to the mainstream media and it’s been a love affair ever since. Deemed one of the definitive albums of the early 1980s, the Zapp album had a role in the creation of the G-funk sound of hip hop music..which was popular in the early and mid 1990s.
47. Waiting to Exhale (Original Soundtrack) by Various Artists
Released: November 14, 1995
Label: Arista
Genre: R&B
Producer: Babyface
Markiz’s favorites: Exhale (Shoop Shoop) • This is How It Works • Kissing You • Not Gon’ Cry • Wey U • Let It Flow
Movie soundtracks never really gotten my interest after the 70s, but one soundtrack that is flawless through and through. & that is the soundtrack to the 1995 classic film Waiting To Exhale. Released November 14, 1995, the film focused on Terry McMillan’s story of four middle class women living in Phoenix and centers on their relationships with men and with one another.
The movie wasn’t solely about the women finding positive relationships with men either. What I also get from the film is how Black women uplifted each other during times of turmoil, chaos and fuckery. Black womanhood needed to be celebrated more during the time of this film’s release, and to this date is one of the best films of all time.
The title is perfect for the film because they are all holding in their breath until they find that comfort in a significant other. The director of the film. (Forest Whitaker) picked Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds to tackle the soundtrack, and he definitely understood the assignment. Each song on the album spoke to the story of each woman in the film and was sung by black women.
Babyface originally wanted Whitney to sing all of the songs for the album, and the pair went with the idea of the album being an all female Cast. BLACK at that. I love everything about this soundtrack!!!
46. “Off The Wall” by Michael Jackson
Released: August 10, 1979
Label: Epic ∙ CBS
Genre: Disco ・funk ・pop ・R&B
Producer: Quincy Jones
Markiz’s favorites: I Can’t Help It ∙ Off the Wall ∙ It’s the Falling in Love ∙ Rock with You ∙ Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough ∙ Girlfriend ∙ Workin’ Day and Night ∙ Burn This Disco Out
Off The Wall was the title of Michael’s fifth solo album, and is a Disco masterpiece. A huge departure from Michael’s previous work from his four solo albums and from the group period, Michael aimed to create an album that he wanted creative freedom and that was different from the sound that we were used to from the group, and achieved just that.
Off The Wall is considered to be Michael’s breakthrough album from his solo career, and one of the landmark disco albums among Donna Summer’s Bad Girls & Bee Gees’ Saturday Night Fever. The album contains elements of not only disco, but funk, pop, jazz, soul, and soft rock.
With themes that include escapism, liberation, loneliness, hedonism and romance, Off The Wall was the first Michael solo album where I felt he felt extremely independent from his family. Like his baby sister Janet would do years later with her breakthrough album Control,Off The Wall showcased that he can have a successful career on his own, and it totally solidified his stature as the King of Pop.
Off The Wall was proof that Michael was destined for the solo success he truly deserved, and after the release of the record..he went on to be the king of pop. Off The Wall was one of the last great albums during the disco era, and had a hand in making the kind of records people WANTED to hear.
45. “In Effect Mode” by Al B. Sure!
Released: May 3, 1988
Label: Uptown ∙ Warner Bros.
Genre: New jack swing
Producer: Al B. Sure! ∙ Kyle West ∙ Teddy Riley
Markiz’s favorites: Nite and Day ∙ Killing Me Softly ∙ Off on Your Own (Girl) ∙ Oooh, This Love is So ∙ Naturally Mine ∙ If I’m Not Your Lover
In Effect Mode is easily one of the most remarkable albums that defined the new jack swing era. The soulful vibes of Nite and Day are so nostalgic! Like truly a classic album from the late 80s for sure.
44. “An Evening with Silk Sonic” by Silk Sonic
Released: November 12, 2021
Label: Atlantic ∙ Aftermath
Genre: R&B ∙ soul ∙ funk ∙ hip hop ∙ pop
Producer: Bruno Mars ∙ D’Mile ∙ The Stereotypes
Markiz’s favorites: Leave the Door Open ∙ After Last Night ∙ Love’s Train ∙ Fly as Me ∙ Skate ∙ Smokin out the Window ∙ 777
Bruno Mars & Anderson .Paak are two of the most amazing entertainers I’ve ever seen. The pair formed the superduo group Silk Sonic in 2021, and the world hasn’t been the same since. The duo’s debut album An Evening with Silk Sonic was released on November 12, 2021. An album with influences of rap, soul, R&B, funk, An Evening with Silk Sonic pays homage to the 1960s to 70s retro era. The pair even had a special guest in the legendary Bootsy Collins!!!
One thing I want people not to get from this record is that it is not a form of appropriation, but appreciation to the music from that era. From Philly Soul, to Motown to funk and soul, you pretty much get all of those legendary vibes from this album. I am certain this duo is here to stay.
Silk Sonic’s debut album is truly one of the best R&B albums of all time, and that‘s no lie. An Evening With Silk Sonic is just organic, orgasmic and just a funky, soulful ride into the world of two musical geniuses. I am totally excited to see what’s next to come from the pair.
43. “janet.” by Janet Jackson
Released: May 18, 1993
Label: Virgin
Genre: R&B ∙ pop
Producer: Janet Jackson ∙ Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis ∙ Jellybean Johnson
Markiz’s favorites: Throb ∙ That’s the Way Love Goes ∙ If ∙ Any Time, Any Place ∙ Where Are You Now ∙ You Want This ∙ Funky Big Band ∙ Again ∙ Whoops Now ∙ The Body That Loves You ∙ Because of Love ∙ What’ll I Do ∙ New Agenda
Being the baby sister of a legendary musical family, Janet Jackson was constantly criticized for being either producer dependent..and of riding the coattails of her family’s name. Even after Control. Rhythm Nation 1814. These fools refused to believe Janet was becoming an icon in her own right. Critics were saying she was dependent on the production from the legendary Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis. Janet proved the naysayers wrong with the eponymous fifth studio album “janet.”
A pop and R&B record with elements of hip hop, opera, new jack swing, house and jazz, Janet’s lyrics were written by Jackson along with long term producers Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis. The lyrical theme of janet. was intimacy and love.
After writing songs of independence on Control, and themes of social injustice, racism and bigotry on Rhythm Nation 1814, Janet stated she wanted to make her next album about love and relationships. janet is just that. A lighter album that takes look at love and promoting safe sexual relationships.
It came as a shock to many because Janet went from a teen role model that promoted abstinence in songs like Let’s Wait Awhile, to becoming a sex symbol promoting safe sex on this album.
In the age of AIDS, it certainly requires being responsible. On a psychological level though, good sex, satisfying sex, is also linked with losing yourself, releasing, using your body to get out of your body. -Janet Jackson, Rolling Stone, 1993.
Sexual maturity on janet. (whether in the songs and videos,) shows that Jackson is being an advocate for young adults to not only responsible, but smart. At the time, women in music like Madonna, Janet and countless others were pushing envelopes in music to showcase that they can be role models and speak about topics that are sort of taboo in the public eye.
Sexual freedom for women was one of those taboo topics, and Janet Jackson was definitely one of the women who broke that barrier down for artists today.
In my eyes, this album made Janet the Queen of pop. Janet Jackson pushed the envelope in music when it came to her albums. They had themes (independence, social injustice, bigotry, love, intimacy and much more). Substance was in the room for sure!
42. “Michel’le” by Michelle
Released: October 23, 1989
Label: Ruthless ∙ Atco ∙ Atlantic
Genre: New jack swing
Producer: Eazy-E ∙ Dr. Dre ∙ Andre “L.A. Dre” Bolton
Markiz’s favorites: No More Lies ∙ Nicety ∙ If ∙ Close to Me ∙ Never Been in Love ∙ Silly Love Song ∙ Something in My Heart ∙ Keep Watchin
Michel’le was the unofficial female member of the iconic rap group N.W.A., being that she was romantically involved with Dr. Dre at the time. Her speaking voice caught everyone off guard until she opened her mouth to sing, and that voice was truly powerful. Her self-titled debut album was released on Ruthless Records, and still stands as one of the most stellar R&B debut albums of all time.
Heavily influenced by the new jack swing sound, Michel’le is one of those albums where you can play through with zero skips. She gives you everything you want from a R&B artist: the uptempo songs, the slow ballads and some tunes to get the party jumping. The legendary Something in My Heart is a TIMELESS and important ballad to the R&B genre. Michel’le reigned supreme in comparison to her peers at the time because the vocals were INSANEEEEEEEE. Like it’ll always be this album for me. Everything.
41. “Where I Wanna Be” by Donell Jones
Released: October 12, 1999
Label: LaFace ∙ Arista
Genre: R&B
Producer: Eddie F. ∙ Sheldon Goode ∙ Wesley Hogges ∙ Darren Lighty ∙ Donell Jones ∙ Kyle West ∙ Eric Williams
Markiz’s favorites: Shorty (Got Her Eyes on Me) ∙ Where I Wanna Be ∙ Have You Seen Her ∙ This Luv ∙ He Won’t Hurt You ∙ All Her Love ∙ Pushin’ ∙ U Know What’s Up (Remix) ∙ When I Was Down
Donell Jones meant business when he released his second studio album, Where I Wanna Be. It is truly one of those R&B albums from the late 90s/early 2000s where you cannot even skip a song. It is one of my favorite albums to sit and smoke to. Top tier!
40. “Unpredictable” by Jamie Foxx
Released: December 27, 2005
Label:J
Genre: R&B ∙ hip hop ∙ pop
Producer: Jamie Foxx ∙ Timbaland ∙ Mike City ∙ Mr. Collipark ∙ Polow da Don ∙ Jim Jonsin ∙ No I.D. ∙ Babyface ∙ Sean Garrett ∙ Tank ∙ Warryn Campbell ∙ Static Major ∙ Miykal Snoddy
Markiz’s favorites: VIP ∙ Do What It Do ∙ Three Letter Word ∙ Extravaganza ∙ Can I Take U Home ∙ DJ Play a Love Song ∙ Warm Bed ∙ Wish U Were Here ∙ Get This Money ∙ Unpredictable ∙ With You
Jamie Foxx has had a phenomenal career as a comedian and actor, but as a SINGER?! WHEW listen. Jamie Foxx’s career as a musician has been truly amazing to witness especially growing up. I was 13 when Jamie’s Unpredictable album dropped, and when I tell you that millennials LOVE this album! Unpredictable is a R&B masterpiece, especially considering the music that was released that year! Like he ended the year with a BANG!!!!
Musically, the album is about LOVE in every aspect. Unpredictable is full with R&B classics that stand the test of time as well. Unpredictable was one of the best albums to be released in 2005. I don’t think i’ve ever appreciated a male artist this much since Luther Vandross.
39. “Maxwell’s Urban Hang Suite” by Maxwell
Released: April 2, 1996
Label: Columbia
Genre: R&B ∙ neo soul ∙ soul ∙ retro-soul
Producer: Maxwell ∙ Peter Mokran ∙ Stuart Matthewman
Markiz’s favorites: …Til the Cops Come Knockin’ ∙ Ascension (Don’t Ever Wonder) ∙ Welcome ∙ Sumthin’ Sumthin’ ∙ Dancewitme ∙ Reunion ∙ Suitelady (The Proposal Jam) ∙ Lonely’s the Only Company (I & II) ∙ The Suite Theme
When you think of Neo-Soul, Maxwell is one of the musicians who pushed the genre to have success in the world of music. Maxwell stood out from the rest of his peers due to the facts that his musical stylings were simply unmatched. His debut album Maxwell’s Urban Hang Suite showcases his musical stylings so perfectly. Everything about this album is magical, and remains one of the best R&B debuts you’ll ever hear in your lifetime.
38. “Just the Way You Like It” by The S.O.S. Band
Released: August 3, 1984
Label: Tabu
Genre: R&B ∙ boogie ∙ soul
Producer: Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis ∙ The S.O.S. Band
Markiz’s favorites: No One’s Gonna Love You ∙ Weekend Girl ∙ Just the Way You Like It ∙ Break Up ∙ I Don’t Want Nobody Else ∙ Body Break ∙ Feeling
Just the Way You Like It is definitely one of my favorite albums from The S.O.S. Band! I mean with the musical stylings of the remarkable production duo Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, the band truly released some of the most amazing R&B records of the 1980s…and of all time period.
37. “Secrets” by Toni Braxton
Released: June 18, 1996
Label: LaFace ∙ Arista
Genre: R&B
Producer: Babyface ∙ Keith Crouch ∙ David Foster ∙ R. Kelly ∙ L.A. Reid ∙ Tony Rich ∙ Soulshock & Karlin ∙ Bryce Wilson
Markiz’s favorites: How Could an Angel Break My Heart ∙ Why Should I Care ∙ Let It Flow ∙ Talking in His Sleep ∙ Un-Break My Heart ∙ You’re Makin’ Me High ∙ Come On Over Here ∙ I Don’t Want To ∙ In the Late of Night ∙ I Love Me Some Him ∙ Find Me a Man
A R&B album with elements of hip hop, quiet storm, jazz and soul, Toni avoids the “sophomore slump” with the guidance & assistance of her musical soulmate Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds on the majority of Secrets. Secrets is definitely one of the best albums in the past two decades, and Toni’s magnum opus. The First Lady of LaFace meant business, and had no business giving us such a masterpiece.
36. “FanMail” by TLC
Released: February 23, 1999
Label: LaFace • Arista
Genre: : R&B • Hip Hop Soul
Producer: L.A. Reid ∙ Dallas Austin ∙ Babyface ∙ Kevin “She’kspere” Briggs ∙ Cyptron ∙ Jermaine Dupri ∙ Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis ∙ Debra Killings ∙ Ricciano Lumpkins ∙ Daryl Simmons.
Markiz’s favorites: I’m Good at Being Bad ∙ Silly Ho ∙ No Scrubs ∙ Come On Down ∙ I Miss You So Much ∙ If They Knew ∙ FanMail ∙ My Life ∙ Unpretty ∙ Dear Lie ∙ Lovesick ∙ Automatic ∙ Shout
TLC was a girl group that had a chemistry like no other. We experienced the beauty of their dynamic on Ooooooohhh… On the TLC Tip & CrazySexyCool, but FanMail was truly the most futuristic album from the past. Their first album in five years, FanMail was everything the world needed at the time especially during the Y2K era. In the world of late 90s teen pop sensations like Britney Spears, N’Sync, & Backstreet Boys, TLC took on the competition by bringing cyber R&B to the forefront of mainstream music!
FanMail’s futuristic look at the digital era was evident throughout the album. Artists like Janet Jackson touched on internet dating with 1997’s The Velvet Rope, but TLC pushed the envelope even further with the aesthetics and themes behind the album.
FanMail was truly ahead of its time when it comes to everything from the cover art which had a custom look to it a binary code that you could decode and the girls in metallic skin tones. The album contained themes of communication, feminism, sexuality, vulnerability, self-reliance & loneliness.
The concept behind FanMail is pretty interesting: the group endured a lot from the last time they released an album: from filing chapter 11 bankruptcy at the peak of their careers and Lisa’s tumultuous relationship with football player Andre Rison which resulted in her burning down his mansion and a rehab stunt.
During those trying times, the group was sent letters of kind words from their devoted fan base (I was a kid so you know I would’ve stepped,) which lead the group..especially Lisa…to name their comeback album FanMail to pay homage to their diehard fans for their support during their hiatus.
FanMail is a wonderful album that’ll stand the test of time always. The album is very special because it is the last album released during Lisa’s life on earth. It saddens me because I often wonder how TLC as a trio would thrive in the years after the 90s. Nevertheless, the beautiful ladies will always be the best to do it.
35. “Love to Love You Baby” by Donna Summer
Released: August 27th, 1975
Label: Casablanca ∙ Oasis
Genre: Disco
Producer: Pete Bellotte
Markiz’s favorites: Love to Love You Baby ∙ Need-a-Man Blues ∙ Pandora’s Box ∙ Full of Emptiness.
Donna Summer was one of the most amazing singers of her day. The Queen of Disco’s second album Love To Love You Baby is one of those albums that will never get old..it’ll forever be timeless. The title track alone is still one of the greatest songs to ever be recorded, and honestly changed the face of music when you asked me. While Love To Love You Baby started out as a lyric, it was eventually turned into a song that Donna only wanted to record for a demo. However, Moroder convinced her to release it as her own song when he became enamored by her erotic moans and groans on the record.
When the song was sent to the president of Casablanca Records (Neil Bogart,) he played it over and over at a party at his home and suggested that they make the song longer. Donna rejected the idea at first, because of reservations about lyrics, but the final recording lasted 16 minutes, & had a record of 23 orgasms. Disco was never the same once Donna Summer stormed and heated the charts up with this stellar album.
34. “Diana Ross (1976)” by Diana Ross
Released: February 10, 1976
Label: Motown
Genre: Soul ∙ disco
Producer: Michael Masser ∙ Hal Davis ∙ Berry Gordy ∙ Don Costa ∙ Lawrence Brown ∙ Gil Askey
Markiz’s favorites: Love Hangover ∙ Kiss Me Now ∙ Smile ∙ Theme from Mahogany (Do You Know Where You’re Going To) ∙ I Thought It Took a Little Time (But Today I Fell in Love) ∙ You’re Good My Child ∙ One Love in My Lifetime
Diana Ross is one of the most legendary women on the planet. Starting her career as the lead singer of the most celebrated girl groups of all time (The Supremes,) Diana eventually went solo, and the rest is history. Diana has a discography full of timeless gems and songs that’ll last a lifetime, and the 1976 self titled album is definitely included in the discussion. The legendary disco number Love Hangover rests on this album and is one of her best songs ever. It’s like the album blended so perfectly together. Ear candy at its finest!
33. “Voodoo” by D’Angelo
Released: January 25, 2000
Label: Virgin ∙ Cheeba Sound
Genre: Neo soul ∙ R&B ∙ funk ∙ soul ∙ jazz ∙ psychedelic soul
Producer: D’Angelo ∙ DJ Premier ∙ Raphael Saadiq
Markiz’s favorites: Untitled (How Does It Feel) ∙ Playa Playa ∙ Devil’s Pie ∙ Africa ∙ Left & Right ∙ One Mo’gin ∙ Chicken Grease ∙ Feel Like Makin’ Love ∙ The Line
When we speak of talented Black musicians, D’Angelo takes the cake. He self taught himself on how to play the piano, & has the range. Literally! D’Angelo came into the music scene in the early 90s, & became apart of a soul revival..& is a hugely responsible for the Neo-Soul movement along with peers Maxwell, Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill and many others.
D’Angelo deserves his flowers because he is the definition of an ARTIST. His musicianship is simply unmatched! D’Angelo came with the HEAT with Voodoo! Dissatisfied with the state of mainstream R&B music at the time, he paid homage to the legends who came before him. An album full of elements of funk, neo soul & R&B, Voodoo is an album you must hear before you die. That’s it. That’s the statement.
32. “Aaliyah” by Aaliyah
Released: July 7, 2001
Label: Blackground ・Virgin Records America
Genre: R&B ・neo soul ・pop ・dance-pop
Producer: Bud’da ・Eric Seats ・J. Dub ・Rapture ・Timbaland
Markiz’s favorites: Loose Rap ∙ We Need a Resolution ∙ Extra Smooth ∙ U Got Nerve ∙ Read Between the Lines ∙ I Care 4 U ∙ It’s Whatever ∙ More Than a Woman ∙ Rock the Boat ∙ Those Were the Days ∙ What If ∙ Never No More
One of the most special records released in 2001 was from the princess of R&B, Aaliyah. The singer’s eponymous third studio album touches on the complexities of relationships, good and bad. With elements of funk, hip hop, alternative rock, neo soul, electronica, R&B and many other genres, Aaliyah remains one of the best futuristic & alternative R&B albums ever.
Aaliyah’s legacy lives on through the amazing discography she left behind. Her death was such a tragedy and although I did not understand at the time..it is surely evident that she touched so many lives with her grace, presence and music. Her self-titled album changed the course of music for years to come. Even today, her music is still influencing careers. That’s what legends do.
31. “The Heat Is On” by The Isley Brothers
Released: June 7, 1975
Label: T-Neck ∙ Epic
Genre: Soul ∙ rock ∙ funk
Producer: The Isley Brothers
Markiz’s favorites: Sensuality (Part 1 & 2) ∙ Make Me Say It Again Girl (Part 1 & 2) ∙ For the Love of You (Part 1 & 2) ∙ Fight the Power (Part 1 & 2) ∙ Hope You Feel Better Love (Part 1 & 2)
I JUST WANT TO SAY THE ISLEY BROTHERS ARE BLACK EXCELLENCE, and The Heat Is On is a masterpiece!!! A soul and rock album that showcases how beautiful the two sounds can blend together, The Heat Is On was added to their collection of 70s albums with their perfect musical formula. Just everything. Sensuality alone is the epitome of a love song. I reallyyyyyyy love this album.
30. Faith by Faith Evans
Released: August 29, 1995
Label: Bad Boy
Genre: R&B
Producer: Bad Boy ∙ Arista
Markiz’s favorites: No Other Love ∙ You Used To Love Me ∙ Soon As I Get Home ∙ Reasons ∙ Ain’t Nobody ∙ Come Over ∙ All This Love ∙ Give It To Me
Faith Evans proved that she can conquer anything with the release of her debut album Faith. Faith stomped into the music world, and things have not been the same since. Faith is a feel good album that you sit at home, and sip wine to. The concept of Faith is primarily about her marriage to BIG. If you listen to songs like No Other Love, Used to Love Me, Fallin’ in Love, the hit Soon As I Get Home..you can comprehend the rocky relationship that Evans was known to have with her husband.
The interludes on Faith are perfection as well. You Are My Joy is dedicated to Faith’s first child Chyna, and is Faith basically telling her daughter that she is why she does this singing thing.
Faith’s cover of Rose Royce’s hit Love Don’t Live Here Anymore, is a standout on this album as well. On earlier pressings of the album, LDLHA was a duet from Faith and Mary J. Blige. The version with Mary is so beautiful, because of the story behind it.
Everything about this entire album is perfection. A flaw is not found on any of Faith’s albums, because she is a MUSICIAN. Faith is simply one of those albums, you have to hear before you die.
The production behind Faith, is simply remarkable. With Diddy and Chucky Thompson producing a chunk of the album, it flows well with the messages Faith is discussing in her beautifully written love songs.
Faith is easily one of the best albums to come out of the 1990s. Being a huge fan of Faith, I feel as if she’s a slept on treasure in the R&B world. She is more than Biggie’s widow. Listen to not only this album, but the others. Faith is simply incomparable, and deserves ALL of her flowers while she’s still with us. Faith has had her shares of ups and downs, but she always come out on top. Faith is a triumph and testament that you can conquer anything.
29. “thank u, next” by Ariana Grande
Released: February 8, 2019
Label: Republic
Genre: Pop ∙ R&B ∙ trap
Producer: Charles Anderson ∙ Brian Baptiste ∙ Tommy Brown ∙ Michael Foster ∙ Ilya ∙ Max Martin ∙ Happy Perez ∙ Pop Wansel
Markiz’s favorites: imagine ∙ ghostin ∙ break up with your girlfriend ∙ in my head ∙ 7 Rings ∙ bad idea ∙ thank u, next ∙ needy ∙ fake smile
While being on hiatus, the beginning stages of Ariana Grande’s fifth studio album Thank U, Next came to light. Thank U, Next is one of Ariana’s most personal albums, with lyrical themes focusing on personal flaws, grief, denial, independence and self-empowerment. Also, the death of Miller and the ending of her engagement to Pete Davidson was also addressed on this record. The album showcases Ariana’s versatility as an artists, with elements of art pop, R&B, trap, dancehall, hip hop and EDM.
Ariana Grande’s Thank U, Next is truly a masterpiece through and through. I didn’t appreciate its greatness until I was able to resonate and relate to a lot of the themes that the album is about. Thank U, Next showcases Ariana’s healing and vulnerability in a nutshell, and I think it is totally one of her best albums and will continue to be so for a very long time!
Thank U, Next has been critically praised for being one of her best LPs & it is! I think it’s probably one of the hardest albums she’s had to make, but the lovely thing about healing from your past is letting it out.
28. “The Diary of Alicia Keys” by Alicia Keys
Released: December 2, 2003
Label: J
Genre: R&B ∙ soul ∙ neo soul
Producer: Alicia Keys ∙ Kerry Brothers, Jr. ∙ Kanye West ∙ Timbaland ∙ Dre & Vidal ∙ Easy Mo Bee ∙ D’wayne Wiggins ∙ Kumasi
Markiz’s favorites: You Don’t Know My Name ∙ Diary ∙ Karma ∙ If I Ain’t Got You ∙ Dragon Days ∙ If I Was Your Woman/Walk on By ∙ Feeling U, Feeling Me (Interlude,) ∙ Nobody Not Really ∙ Slow Down ∙ Samsonite Man ∙ Heartburn.
The Diary Of Alicia Keys cemented her status as one of the best musicians of all time! To this day, You Don’t Know My Name is one of the most beautiful songs ever created and is a timeless masterpiece. The album explores complexities of romantic relationships, and social issues, and Alicia’s mesmerizing vocals makes this album an instant classic in R&B history.
27. I’m Still in Love with You by Al Green
Released: October 23, 1972
Label: Hi
Genre: Soul
Producer: Willie Mitchell
Markiz’s favorites: What a Wonderful Thing Love Is ∙ For the Good Times ∙ Look What You Done for Me ∙ Oh, Pretty Woman ∙ Simply Beautiful ∙ Love and Happiness ∙ I’m Glad You’re Mine
I’m Still in Love with You is easily one of the most smoothest soul records in the past 50 years. Produced solely by Willie Mitchell, Al & Mitchell was in that studio making MAGIC! I’m not saying his prior albums aren’t masterpieces, because let’s be honest: Al Green is one of the greatest to ever do it. His vocals are smoother than butter, the productions and arrangements are so top tier, he’s one of the most sampled artists in the world of music! like be for real and pay homage to my boy!
Like you know that one album that is so timeless that you can play it over and over? It’s this album for me! It’s complex, but perfect. I don’t think there’s an album out today that can make me say these words. With themes of love & sensuality, I’m Still in Love with You warps you into a world of a classic masterpiece period.
Al Green put his FOOT into this album, and meant it 1000%. It should be a crime how wonderful this album is and will forever be one of the greatest to ever drop in the history of music, The memories of being young and surrounded by the people who raised me and nurtured me showcases the beauty of knowing wonderful music. Definitely a must hear if you’re trying to get into the genius of Al Green.
26. “I’ve Got So Much To Give” by Barry White
Released: March 27, 1973
Label: 20th Century Fox Records
Genre: R&B • Soul
Producer: Barry White
Markiz’s favorites: I’ve Got So Much to Give ∙ I’ve Found Someone ∙ Standing in the Shadows of Love ∙ I’m Gonna Love You Just a Little More Baby
Barry White’s debut album I’ve Got So Much to Give will forever be one of the best albums I’ve ever heard. Just a masterpiece all around!
25. “Baduizm” by Erykah Badu
Released: February 11, 1997
Label: Kedar ∙ Universal
Genre: R&B ∙ neo soul
Producer: Madukwu Chinwah ∙ Bob Power ∙ JaBorn Jamal ∙ Ike Lee III ∙ Erykah Badu ∙ the Roots Richard Nichols ∙ James Poyser ∙ Tone the Backbone ∙ Jaifar Barron ∙ Robert Bradford
Markiz’s favorites: On & On ∙ Next Lifetime ∙ Sometimes ∙ Appletree ∙ Otherside of the Game ∙ Certainly ∙ 4 Leaf Clover ∙ Drama ∙ Afro (Freestyle Skit).
Baduizm is what solidified Erykah as the Queen of Neo-Soul. Her album brought back the soul that was missing in music at the time. I’m a sucker for 1970s Music now that my friend has put me on, & the similarities between Soul music in the 70s & Erykah’s debut album are just mind blowing!
Also, critics noted that she’s a “modern day Billie Holiday.” As much as I dislike comparisons with the past generation’s legends with new ones, this comparison is rightfully deserved. With songs like On & On, Next Lifetime & Otherside of The Game, Erykah was the best thing to happen to 97! Period.
24. “Reality Show” by Jazmine Sullivan
Released: January 13, 2015
Label: RCA
Genre: R&B
Producer: Jazmine Sullivan ∙ Anthony Bell ∙ DJ Dahi ∙ Dilemma ∙ Ben Free ∙ JayFrance ∙ JoeLogic ∙ Chuck Harmony ∙ Da Internz ∙ Salaam Remi ∙ Key Wane ∙ Matt Wong.
Markiz’s favorites: Stanley ∙ #HoodLove ∙ Silver Lining ∙ Brand New ∙ Mascara ∙ Stupid Girl ∙ Let It Burn ∙ Forever Don’t Last ∙ Masterpiece (Mona Lisa) ∙ Veins ∙ Dumb
Jazmine Sullivan took a five year hiatus from music, and returned with her most ostentatious album so far, titled Reality Show. Reality Show is honestly one of the best albums in the 21st century, and better than anything on reality television.
44 minutes of greatness, Reality Show is R&B’s greatest offering in years. Jazmine’s vocals, storytelling, production & versatility makes the album a masterpiece through and through. Reality Show was inspired by reality tv, her life, ups and downs of relationships and much more. Jazmine Sullivan is truly a gem in the world of R&B. When people say R&B is dead, I love to say not while Jazmine Sullivan is alive and well.
Reality Show was exactly what we needed back in 2015. It was uplifting, giving us the best vibes and is truly one of the best albums that I’ve heard in a long time.
23. “Mary” by Mary J. Blige
Released: August 17, 1999
Label: MCA
Genre: R&B ∙ Neo soul
Producer: Mary J. Blige • Babyface • Rich Harrison • Gerald Isaac • Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis • Lauryn Hill • Malik Pendleton • Soulshock & Karlin • Chucky Thompson
Markiz’s favorites: No Happy Holidays ∙ Beautiful Ones ∙ I’m in Love ∙ Time ∙ Deep Inside ∙ Not Lookin’ ∙ Memories ∙ All That I Can Say ∙ Your Child ∙ The Love I Never Had ∙ Give Me You
Mary J. Blige was a force in the 1990s, giving us classics back to back. Mary’s follow up to Share My World is the eponymous fourth studio album Mary. A huge departure from anything that she has done in her career, Mary is an album that pushed her away from urban to adult contemporary in a nutshell.
The album showcases Mary’s artistic growth and versatility as an artist with elements of Neo soul, classical & 70s inspired soulful music. Everything about Mary is pure greatness, & while it came as a shock to critics and fans, it has since become one of Blige’s most appreciated works while still being heavily underrated in my opinion.
The Mary album needs to be discussed more when it comes to flawless R&B albums damn it! Mary often gets overlooked compared to her biggest works, but Mary understood the assignment and passed with flying colors. It is Mary at her complete best, and I will die on that hill forever! Appreciate this peace of work!
22. Straight Outta Compton by N.W.A.
Released: August 8, 1988
Label: Ruthless ∙ Priority
Genre: West Coast hip hop ∙ gangsta rap ∙ hardcore hip hop
Producer: Eazy-E ∙ Dr. Dre ∙ DJ Yella ∙ Arabian Prince
Markiz’s favorites: Gangsta Gangsta ∙ Fuck tha Police ∙ If It Ain’t Ruff ∙ 8 Ball (Remix) ∙ Express Yourself ∙ Something Like That ∙ Straight Outta Compton
N.W.A. ( Niggaz Wit Attitudes) was one of the popularizers of the gangsta rap sub genre, with their debut album Straight Outta Compton. While the group was deemed controversial for lyrics that were sexist and speaking of crime and drugs as well. What doesn’t get talked about enough is how N.W.A’s music was more political than anything…firing back at how police brutality and how life was for Black people during that time.
21. “Destiny Fulfilled” by Destiny’s Child
Released: November 16, 2004
Label: Columbia • Sony Urban
Genre: R&B
Producer: Beyoncé Knowles ∙ Kelly Rowland ∙ Michelle Williams ∙ Rich Harrison ∙ Mathew Knowles ∙ 9th Wonder ∙ Bryan Michael Cox ∙ Dre & Vidal ∙ Sean Garrett ∙ Rodney Jerkins ∙ Rockwilder ∙ Ric Rude ∙ Erron Williams ∙ Mario Winans ∙ Wyldcard
Markiz’s favorites: Is She The Reason ∙ Soldier ∙ If ∙ Bad Habit ∙ Free ∙ Through With Love ∙ Love ∙ Girl ∙ T-Shirt ∙ Lose My Breath
Destiny’s Child released their fifth and final studio album Destiny Fulfilled in the fall of 2004. An album with elements of soul, dance and hip-hop music, Destiny Fulfilled is a R&B concept album about a black woman’s journey through relationships. Stemming from conversations the women had while they were on hiatus, the album saw each member having songwriting and production credits whereas Beyoncé was usually the one who contributed.
The album showcased the group’s maturity and growth as women through their friendships and relationships. It was greatest farewell and gift to their fans, because they truly fulfilled their destinies up until this point as a group: Beyoncé’s solo career took off and her relationship with Jay Z was blossoming in the public eye professionally and personally. Kelly’s solo career took off with her 2002 hit with rapper Nelly titled Dilemma. Michelle went the gospel route with her solo career with her debut album Heart to Yours going number one on the Billboard Gospel Albums chart.
Destiny’s Child’s destiny had already been fulfilled by the time their final album was released. And for them to come back together in the most natural way to give their adoring fans the final album that they deserved. It’s very ironic that their album was named Destiny Fulfilled. Because they provided us a body of work that will stand the test of time!
20. Alexander O’Neal by Alexander O’Neal
Released: March 8, 1985
Label: Tabu ∙ Epic
Genre: R&B ∙ soul
Producer: Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis ∙ Monte Moir
Markiz’s favorites: If You Were Here Tonight ∙ What’s Missing ∙ You Were Meant to Be My Lady (Not My Girl) ∙ A Broken Heart Can Mend ∙ Look at Us Now ∙ Medley: Innocent/Alex 9000/Innocent II
To this day, Alexander’s self titled album is considered one of the most impressive R&B debut albums ever. The album was mostly produced by Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, his group members from his “The Time” days, and is extremely one of the most captivating albums i’ve ever had!
19. “Who Is Jill Scott?: Words and Sounds Vol. 1” by Jill Scott
Released: July 18, 2000
Label: Hidden Beach
Genre: R&B ∙ soul ∙ neo soul
Producer: Vidal Davis ∙ The Grand Wizzards ∙ Carvin Haggins ∙ Andre Harris ∙ Darren Henson ∙ Richard Nichols ∙ Keith Pelzer ∙ James Poyser ∙ Ted Thomas Jr. ∙ Jeff Townes
Markiz’s favorites: Do You Remember ∙ Slowly Surely ∙ One Is the Magic # ∙ The Way ∙ Love Rain ∙ He Loves Me (Lyzel in E Flat) ∙ Watching Me ∙ I Think It’s Better ∙ It’s Love ∙ Gettin’ In the Way ∙ A Long Walk ∙ Exclusively ∙ Honey Molasses
Jill Scott’s debut album Who Is Jill Scott?:Words and Sounds Vol. 1 is not only remarkable, but it is unforgettable. The storytelling AND poetry, the sequencing of the album, the lyricism, the production…so amazing chile. I had the pleasure of seeing Jill Scott live when she was performing at a Black music festival in Cincinnati, Ohio during the summer of 2023 for the 20th anniversary of her debut album.
When I tell you I was UP just enjoying the selections from this album because the days of my mama buying the album when it was first released played in my mind. Every song is a masterpiece. Like a R&B debut album like this should forever go down in history for being one of the best.
18. Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation 1814 by Janet Jackson
Released: September 19, 1989
Label: A&M
Genre: pop ∙ R&B ∙ new jack swing ∙ funk
Producer: James “Jimmy Jam” Harris ∙ Terry Lewis ∙ Janet Jackson ∙ Jellybean Johnson
Markiz’s favorites: Someday Is Tonight ∙ Come Back to Me ∙ Lonely ∙ Miss You Much ∙ Black Cat ∙ Rhythm Nation ∙ The Knowledge ∙ Escapade ∙ Alright ∙ Livin’ in a World (They Didn’t Make)
Being the youngest sibling from the musical Jackson family dynasty, Janet Jackson had critics and music listeners wondering if her musical career was based on nepotism. After the release of her first two studio albums, Janet received commercial success with 1986’s Control, which had autobiographical themes like the singer’s desire to be free from the guidance of her father when it came to her professional affairs, and her annulment to James DeBarge. Control was one of the albums to introduce the new jack swing sub genre to popular music markets, and has been considered one of the most definitive albums of the 1980s.
Janet’s label wanted a Control sequel which would’ve related to her personal and family life, but she was moreso inspired to make a concept album with a theme of social consciousness. That album became to be Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation 1814, which is one the most remarkable albums of all time.
Exploring themes of racism, poverty, substance abuse, romance, Rhythm Nation made critics eat their words with beautifully showcasing the beauty of new jack swing and rock influence beats over lyrical content that amazingly discusses how important it is to focus on these issues in the world. The album is an artistic masterpiece that’ll always reign supreme.
17. “The Emancipation of Mimi” by Mariah Carey
Released: April 12th, 2005
Label: Island Def Jam
Genre: R&B ∙ Hip Hop ∙ Pop
Producer: Mariah Carey ∙ Jermaine Dupri ∙ Manuel Seal, Jr ∙ Bryan-Michael Cox ∙ Swizz Beatz ∙ LRoc ∙ James “Big Jim” Wright ∙ The Neptunes ∙ Kanye West ∙ James Poyser ∙ Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins
Markiz’s favorites: Shake It Off ∙ It’s Like That ∙ Mine Again ∙ We Belong Together ∙ Your Girl ∙ I Wish You Knew ∙ Stay the Night ∙ To The Floor ∙ Fly Like a Bird ∙ Circles ∙ One and Only ∙ Joy Ride ∙ Don’t Forget About Us ∙ Makin’ It Last All Night (What It Do)
Mariah Carey is the only artist I know who has had many comebacks based on the stats that she set for herself in the beginning stages of her career. After the fiasco of the Glitter era, Mariah released Charmbracelet in 2002 and while it sold 3 million copies worldwide, critics gave mixed to negative reviews. Mariah made all of them eat those words with the release of her tenth studio album, The Emancipation of Mimi.
The Emancipation of Mimi is Mariah’s most expressive and most personal album at that time, showcasing her artistic and creative freedom on an album more than she ever had up until that time. When you think of The Emancipation of Mimi, you think of the nostalgic vibes this album gives with the classics like We Belong Together, Shake It Off, It’s Like That & Don’t Forget About Us. Even the album cuts hit so different when you go back and revisit! Ask anyone who had the streets on LOCK in 05 when it comes to the R&B girlies, and they’ll always tell you that Mimi did. ❤️
16. “A Quiet Storm” by Smokey Robinson
Released: March 26, 1975
Label: Tamla
Genre: Soul ∙ Smooth Jazz ∙ Quiet Storm
Producer: Smokey Robinson
Markiz’s favorites: Quiet Storm ∙ Baby That’s Backatcha ∙ Love Letters ∙ Coincidentally
15. “Let’s Get It On” by Marvin Gaye
Released: August 28, 1973
Label: Tamla
Genre: Soul ∙ R&B
Producer: Marvin Gaye ∙ Ed Townsend
Markiz’s favorites: Just to Keep You Satisfied ∙ You Sure Love to Ball ∙ If I Should Die Tonight ∙ Let’s Get It On ∙ Please Stay (Once You Go Away) ∙ Distant Lover ∙ Come Get to This
Let’s Get It On became one of Marvin’s most sexually charged albums, pushing a movement of sensually themed music to mainstream music and had a tremendous influence on future generations with artists like Prince & D’Angelo.
Let’s Get It On’s themes of love and relationships was a revolution that needed to be enforced in a time of turmoil and change for the country. A SEXUAL REVOLUTION. Don’t get me wrong. I am a very socially aware type of man. But love is needed. Sex is needed too. Intimacy period, is needed. Sexual healing is important, wink wink. Lol. Corny joke I know, but you catch my drift. The album made Marvin a sex SYMBOL goddamn it! Just one of my favorite albums of all time.
Let’s Get It On is also credited for shifting the Motown Sound in the 1970s, as its trademark sound from the 60s was starting to fade tremendously for the sounds of music at the time (where philly soul and funk was more prevalent on the radio). The production on Let’s Get It On was so amazing with the usage of the old school “Motown sound” by incorporating funky instrumentation, melismatic vocalization and vocal multi-tracking into the album
Let’s Get It On also gets credit for being a pioneer for slow jam and quiet storm formats, paving the way for albums like Smokey Robinson’s A Quiet Storm, Barry White’s Can’t Get Enough and Earth, Wind & Fire’s That’s the Way of the World.
Let’s Get It On will always be a groundbreaking album for not only Marvin Gaye, but Motown & their legacies period. Love and relationships was the central focus of the album and made sense that Marvin had complete artistic control during his tenure with Motown because the material on these concept albums were top tier. & still ARE!!! MARVIN GAYE WILL FOREVER REIGN SUPREME FOR GIVING US TIMELESS RECORDS.
14. “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” by Lauryn Hill
Released: August 25, 1998
Label: Ruffhouse ∙ Columbia
Genre: Neo soul ∙ R&B ∙ hip hop ∙ hip hop soul ∙ reggae ∙ progressive rap
Producer: Lauryn Hill ∙ Che Pope ∙ Vada Nobles
Markiz’s favorites: Doo Wop (That Thing) ∙ Ex-Factor ∙ Nothing Even Matters ∙ I Used to Love Him ∙ Can’t Take My Eyes Off You ∙ Forgive Them Father ∙ Superstar ∙ Everything Is Everything ∙ Lost Ones ∙ To Zion ∙ Every Ghetto, Every City
An album that incorporates sounds of neo-soul, R&B, Reggae, Hip-Hop & soul, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill captures the essence of her life at the time with themes like motherhood (To Zion,) her former group “The Fugees,” love, heartbreak (I Used to Love Him,) God and warning men and women to read a room and “come again on the iconic Doo Wop (That Thing). I’ll always go out on a limb and express how this album will always be important to our history and culture, because it is so significant.
13. “Hard Core” by Lil’ Kim
Released: November 12, 1996
Label: Undeas ∙ Big Beat ∙ Atlantic
Genre: Hip hop
Producer: Jacob York ∙ Carlos Broady ∙ Sean Combs ∙ Cornbread ∙ Jermaine Dupri ∙ Fabian Hamilton ∙ Andreao “Fanatic” Heard ∙ Nashiem Myrick ∙ The Notorious B.I.G. ∙ Prestige ∙ Ski ∙ Rashad Smith ∙ Stevie J ∙ Stretch Armstrong ∙ Brent “Faraoh” Toussaint.
Markiz’s favorites: Big Momma Thang ∙ Spend a Little Doe ∙ Dreams ∙ We Don’t Need It ∙ Not Tonight ∙ Drugs ∙ No Time ∙ Queen Bitch ∙ M.A.F.I.A. Land
Kimberly Denise Jones (better known as Lil’ Kim) will forever reign supreme as one of the First Ladies of Rap (I’ll say she IS the Queen of Rap period but that’s just me). In the 90s, she was everything to the streets when it came to hip hop. Granted, we had the OG hip hop legendary queens like Queen Latifah, Monie Love, MC Lyte, Salt N’ Pepa and Roxanne Shanté, but when Kim came on the scene, it was a MOMENT.
Lil’ Kim’s debut album Hard Core was released on November 12, 1996 by Undeas Recordings, Big Beat Records and Atlantic Records. Hard Core lives up to its name, giving you east coast hip hop going hard from one of the best lyricists in the game of all time. Kim raised the bar for hip hop by challenging the status quo in the world of hip hop.
Before Kim, it was common that women were sexualized in the form of being seen as disposable whores to men and was the beginning of the video girl era as well. Most of the female rappers at the time also generally did not going the route of being raunchy and provocative in their music. Kim changed the landscape of MODERN DAY hip hop for women by using her platform to be sexually liberated and show men that women can turn the tables and be so brass and bold with their sexuality period. That’s why Lil’ Kim is called the blueprint.
From Kim’s delivery and flow on songs NO ONE can pull off, her top tier SONGWRITING AND LYRICISM and production from 70s soul classics makes Hard Core easily one of the best hip hop albums of all time. Hard Core is a cinematic experience. It’s like we’re purchasing a movie ticket into the rap genius that is Lil’ Kim. The raunchy, wild and expensive Black Queen who is sexually liberated and bold. But I don’t like to say bold. So I’ll say confident. Kim embodies the definition of confidence period. Hard Core is not only our introduction to Kim, but is the blueprint of modern day rap for Black women. YES. Kimberly Denise was one of the first to do it, baby baby!
Lil’ Kim’s Hard Core album laid the foundation for modern female rap and I am glad that everyone can agree to that testament. Lil Kim caught a lot of flack around the time of the album’s release for going too far in her music so artists like Nicki Minaj, City Girls, Megan Thee Stallion, Cardi B and many more can freely express themselves in their art. Hard Core is not just about sex. Hard Core is all about female liberation and freedom. It’s truly a remarkable timeless album that’ll go down in history for pushing the envelope and breaking doors for Black women entertainers to be authentically them. You are appreciated and so loved for your contributions to hip hop and music period, Kimberly Denise Jones.
12. “Caught Up” by Millie Jackson
Released: 1974
Label: Spring
Genre: R&B
Producer: Brad Shapiro
Markiz’s favorites: Summer (The First Time) ∙ I’m Tired of Hiding ∙ All I Want is a Fighting Chance ∙ The Rap ∙ (If Loving You Is Wrong) I Don’t Want to Be Right
I do NOT play any games when it comes to THE Millie Jackson. Millie is truly one of the og artists who deserves all of the praises for being the Godmother of Rap, and this album is a testament of that. Caught Up is a concept album that’s like a soap opera that discusses the aftermath of an affair coming to light, while seeing the perspectives of the “other woman,” and the wife.
The album begins the Millie’s cover of Luther Ingram’s (If Loving You Is Wrong) I Don’t Want to Be Right, and proceeds with the rap, which is what I consider to be the FIRSTTTTTTT form of a rap song. Millie Jackson’s genius is appreciated on this album, due to her understanding how it feels for both women’s voices to be heard. Legendary af.
11. “Whitney Houston” by Whitney Houston
Released: February 14, 1985
Label: Arista
Genre: Pop ∙ dance ∙ R&B ∙ pop-soul
Producer: Jermaine Jackson ∙ Kashif ∙ Michael Masser ∙ Narada Michael Walden
Markiz’s favorites: You Give Good Love ∙ Saving All My Love for You ∙ Greatest Love of All ∙ All at Once ∙ How Will I Know ∙Thinking About You ∙ Nobody Loves Me Like You Do
I did not go into the studio wanting to make a pop album. I went into the studio to make good music.
– Whitney Houston, 1985
Before Whitney Houston became a household name, she came from a family of SINGERS. Her mother Cissy Houston is known for being a member of The Sweet Inspirations, & for singing background for the likes of Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin, Wilson Pickett and many more. Also Cissy’s niece is Dionne Warwick, the legendary songstress who is music’s first Black pop star. I say all of that to say that Whitney Elizabeth Houston was destined to be the voice.
The singer’s self-titled debut album Whitney Houston is EASILY one of the most stellar albums of the 80s and all time. Clive Davis set out to make Whitney the DIVA of Arista and of the world, and she became just that. To date, it is the best-selling debut album by a Black woman and of all time…selling over 25 million copies worldwide.
The Whitney Houston album paired the singer with the best of the best producers and songwriters…and they wanted to show the world the power of her voice. The lyricism and production makes the album so enjoyable to vibe to even in 2024. From the stellar R&B ballad You Give Good Love to the pop hit How Will I Know, the album was a perfect introduction to the voice, and what was to come from her! Whitney Houston became a blueprint that superstars to this day try to emulate because it proves that a vocalist will always be an instant success as long as they have the perfect team behind them.
10. “RENAISSANCE” by Beyoncé
Released: July 29, 2022
Label: Parkwood ∙ Columbia
Genre: Dance ∙ pop ∙ house ∙ disco ∙ R&B
Producer: BAH ∙ Beam ∙ Beyoncé ∙ Boi-1da ∙ Al Cres ∙ Honey Dijon ∙ Kelman Duran ∙ Hit-Boy ∙ Leven Kali ∙ Mike Dean ∙ Neenyo ∙ No I.D. ∙ Nova Wav ∙ P2J ∙ Chriss Penny ∙ Luke Solomon ∙ Syd ∙ Skrillex ∙ Tricky Stewart ∙ Jahaan Sweet ∙ Sevn Thomas ∙ The-Dream
Markiz’s favorites: Break My Soul ∙ Alien Superstar ∙ Church Girl ∙ Heated ∙ Pure/Honey ∙ Cozy ∙ I’m That Girl ∙ Energy ∙ Cuff It ∙ Plastic Off the Sofa ∙ Move ∙ Thique ∙ America Has a Problem
Renaissance is a culmination of freedom and escape that encourages unimaginable jubilation, agency and movement with abandon. The singular intent of renaissance, a reinvention of four on the floor, is to showcase music that stirs you from the soul and encourages your dancing feet.
Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, 2022
A best album list would not make a lick of sense if Beyoncé isn’t in the top ten list ALONE. Beyoncé’s seventh studio album Renaissance serves as the first act of a trilogy she came up with during the global coronavirus epidemic (the second act Cowboy Carter came along in 2024). Renaissance introduced house and dance music back to mainstream radio, and was created to be an ode to Black joy, pride, and LGBTQ+ culture.
When the album did not win the Album of The Year Grammy Award in 2023 (losing to Harry Styles’ Harry’s House,) I was truly shocked because the transitioning, engineering, production, replay value and themes of Renaissance alone should’ve been a done one. One thing I love about Beyoncé is her dedication to her craft, and Renaissance is a testament to that. Queen Bey takes risks and doesn’t care how it may have affect her career in a good or bad way because that’s what an artist is supposed to do!
9. “ANTI” by Rihanna
Released: 28 January 2016
Label: Westbury Road ∙ Roc Nation
Genre: Pop ∙ dancehall ∙ psychedelic soul ∙ alternative R&B
Producer: Boi-1da ∙ Brian Kennedy ∙ Chad Sabo ∙ Daniel Jones ∙ DJ Mustard ∙ Fade Majah ∙ Fred Ball ∙ Hit-Boy ∙ Jeff Bhasker ∙ Kevin Parker ∙ Mick Schultz ∙ Mitus ∙ No I.D. ∙ Robert Shea Taylor ∙ Scum ∙ Timbaland
Markiz’s favorites: Love on the Brain ∙ Kiss It Better ∙ Higher ∙ Woo ∙ Same Ol’ Mistakes ∙ Close to You ∙ Needed Me ∙ Never Ending ∙ Desperado ∙ Yeah, I Said It
When Rihanna was a singer (Inside joke for those who know me,) she gave us seven studio albums back to back and making hit after hit by 2016. When her 8th studio album ANTI was leaked on TIDAL ahead of its scheduled release, it was completely a difference from her prior studio albums and everyone was not feeling it. Now that time has passed and Rihanna has ventured off into other endavors..people have had time to sit on ANTI, and consider it to be one of her most cohesive works. & they’re CORRECT.
Anyone who’s not a diehard fan of Rihanna like myself is going to say that she’s a single artist and that ANTI is her only album that showcases her ability to make bodies of work, but that’s a lie. Rated R, Loud, Talk That Talk & Good Girl Gone Bad exists, but ANTI is stellar compared to those bodies of work. ANTI went against the means of what is expected of Rihanna and she showcased artistic and vocal growth, meaningful themes of self-assurance, love, relationships and the versatility of music genres from dancehall, hip hop, country, trap, synth-rock, industrial, psychedelic soul, and so much more !!!
& seeing her live on the world tour for this album made me love her even more for implementing those exact things right on stage! 8 years later and ANTI remains one of the longest charting albums for a Black woman in Billboard 200 history. That Rihanna reign will NEVER let up! ANTI is truly a masterpiece and even if it is Rihanna’s final studio album (WE HOPE NOT,) her musical career would end on a remarkable note.
8. “Amazing Grace” by Aretha Franklin
Released: June, 1, 1972
Label: Atlantic
Genre: Gospel
Producers: Aretha Franklin ∙ Jerry Wexler ∙ Arif Mardin
Markiz’s favorites: Mary, Don’t You Weep ∙ Give Yourself to Jesus ∙ Wholy Holy ∙ Precious Memories ∙ Amazing Grace ∙ Precious Lord, Take My Hand / You’ve Got a Friend
Aretha Louise Franklin was dubbed the “Queen of Soul” throughout her six decade career, and gave us so many hits throughout the years like Respect, Think, Chain of Fools, (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman, Spanish Harlem, Rock Steady, etc. After the release of her amazing Young, Gifted and Black LP, Aretha released a double Gospel LP titled Amazing Grace. One thing to remember that Aretha was the daughter of minister and civil rights activist C.L. Franklin. She grew up amongst the likes of seeing all kinds of entertainers in her home, including the gospel legend Clara Ward (whom she honors with her cover of How I Got Over). Amazing Grace album pays homage to her church upbringing and showcases the beauty of Aretha’s brilliant mind.
The LP remains the best-selling album of her entire career, selling over two million copies in the United States alone. Amazing Grace gave the singer a producer credit, making her one of the very few Black women at the time to be credited in such a way. With guidance from family friend Reverend James Cleveland and the Southern California Community Choir, Aretha takes us back to church with traditional gospel classics and her flipping pop and soul classics into gospel numbers, adding more madness to the genius of Aretha Franklin. Chef’s kiss.
7. “Songs in the Key of Life” by Stevie Wonder
Released: September 28, 1976
Label: Tamla
Genre: R&B ∙ soul ∙ pop ∙ avant-pop ∙ progressive soul ∙ soul jazz
Producers: Stevie Wonder
Markiz’s favorites: Knocks Me Off My Feet ∙ Pastime Paradise ∙ I Wish ∙ Sir Duke ∙ As ∙ Love’s in Need of Love Today ∙ Black Man ∙ Another Star ∙ If It’s Magic
Stevie Wonder is a national treasure, and has been since he was formally introduced to the music world. His eighteenth studio album Songs in the Key of Love is a musical masterpiece. Like my God, Stevie wonderfully captures the essence of love, fatherhood, and a guided tour of childhood, faith and social justice. A timeless album like this is truly one of a kind, with songs like As, Isn’t She Lovely, Pastime Paradise & Knocks Me Off My Feet. In 2005, the album was inducted into the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress which deemed it “culturally, historically or aesthetically significant… and that it is.
6. “CrazySexyCool” by TLC
Released: November 15, 1994
Label: LaFace ∙ Arista
Genre: R&B ∙ hip hop soul
Producers: Dallas Austin ∙ Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds ∙ Organized Noize ∙ Chucky Thompson ∙ Sean “Puffy” Combs ∙ Manuel Seal ∙ Jon-John Robinson ∙ Jermaine Dupri
Markiz’s favorites: Creep ∙ Take Our Time ∙ Switch ∙ Waterfalls ∙ Kick Your Game ∙ Diggin’ On You ∙ Red Light Special ∙ If I Was Your Girlfriend ∙ Sumthin’ Wicked This Way Comes ∙ Let’s Do It Again ∙ Case of the Fake People
Coming of age albums are needed. We gotta have those albums that shows musical growth and progression. CrazySexyCool was that album for the iconic girl group TLC.
Where musicians usually suffer from the “sophomore slump,” TLC debunked those assumptions of being a fad after a successful debut album, with CrazySexyCool. This album showcased their maturity through themes in comparison to their debut. It continued their sex positive advocacy, the HIV/AIDS epidemic, illegal drug trade, optimism & romance.
Ah. There will never be another TLC. This album is one you MUST listen to before you die. It is one of the most important R&B albums of all time, & you can still see the influences in today’s music. We love to see it.
5. “My Life” by Mary J. Blige
Released: November 29, 1994
Genre: R&B ∙ hip hop soul
Producer: Sean “Puffy” Combs ∙ Chucky Thompson ∙ Nashiem Myrick ∙ Dalvin DeGrate ∙ Herb Middleton ∙ Prince Charles Alexander ∙ Poke
Markiz’s favorites: I Never Wanna Live Without You ∙ Be With You ∙ Don’t Go ∙ I Love You ∙ No One Else ∙ I’m Goin’ Down ∙ My Life ∙ Mary Jane (All Night Long) ∙ Be Happy ∙ I’m the Only Woman
In 2019, I had the ultimate pleasure of seeing Mary J. Blige live in my hometown of Milwaukee, WI while she was on tour with the legendary rap emcee Nas. Ironically that year, she was celebrating the 25th anniversary of her sophomore LP, My Life. As Mary dived into the songs from My Life, when she got to her touching rendition of the Rose Royce classic I’m Going Down (Mary’s Cover is titled I’m Goin’ Down,) the entire area sung the song for her. She did not bother, she held the mic to the audience because we had it from there. I say that to say the My Life album is the soundtrack to millions of Black lives who lived at that time and to this day.
My Life was Mary’s breakthrough album, while being her most personal album at the time. The album showcases the complexities and raw emotions of a Black woman who is in a tumultuous relationship while tackling topics of clinical depression, melancholy, loneliness, and the singer’s own personal battles with drugs and alcohol.
A reason why Mary is such an important part of Black music history and households is how much we can resonate with Mary’s transparency through her work. We’ve all gone through rough patches in our lives so I believe ANYONE can relate to a young Mary on this album. One thing that sets Mary apart from most artists is her ear for music, and we can see that showcased from the samples she picks on the records on the album (Curtis Mayfield, Barry White, Mary Jane Girls, etc). Like her artistry is truly unmatched, and My Life shows the world why she’ll always be one of the most treasured artists in R&B history, and why we call her the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul.
4. “Butterfly” by Mariah Carey
Released: September 10, 1997
Label: Columbia
Genre: R&B ∙ pop ∙ hip hop
Producer: Mariah Carey ∙ Walter Afanasieff ∙ Sean “Puffy” Combs ∙ The Ummah ∙ Stevie J ∙ Trackmasters ∙ Cory Rooney ∙ David Morales
Markiz’s favorites: The Roof ∙ My All ∙ Breakdown ∙ Outside ∙ Close My Eyes ∙ Babydoll ∙ Fly Away (Butterfly Reprise) ∙ The Beautiful Ones
Mariah Carey’s Butterfly is one of the most amazing R&B albums of all time. Being her sixth studio album at the time, Butterfly continued the transition of Mariah getting pushed into thr R&B & hip hop market and was a turning point in her personal life and professional career. Mariah has since been vocal about her personal testimonies about what she went through with her then husband at the time (Tommy Mottola,) but Butterfly was her most personal album at the time..with the singer making the genre of music that she was solely interested in making and adores.
Butterfly showcases Mariah as a student in the world of music, mastering her craft and becoming a teacher for the pop singers that has come after her. This album truly changed the face of pop music, and helped popularized pop singers to collaborate with their hip hop peers.
The themes of artistic freedom, emancipation, love, the complexities of being a biracial woman puts Butterfly as Mariah’s magnum opus. Butterfly has gone on to sell over 10 million copies, and showcases Mariah spreading her wings and preparing to fly..because she had literally become a butterfly the exact moment she released this masterpiece to the world.
3. “Control” by Janet Jackson
Released: February 4, 1986
Label: A&M
Genre: pop ∙ R&B
Producer: Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis ∙ Monte Moir
Markiz’s favorites: Nasty ∙ He Doesn’t Know I’m Alive ∙ What Have You Done for Me Lately ∙ Funny How Time Flies (When You’re Having Fun) ∙ Control ∙ The Pleasure Principle
Being the baby sister of one of the most iconic boy bands of all time (Jackson 5) had to have some kind of affect on Janet Jackson’s first studio albums (her 1982 self-titled debut album and 1984’s Dream Street,) but it is something about her third studio album Control, that established her as a household name and set her apart from her famous siblings and her acting career.
Control was a bold declaration for Janet’s desire to establish her independence from her family (especially her father Joe Jackson,) changes in her life with her annulment to James DeBarge, severing her business ties from her family and self-actualization. Control also became one of the earliest albums to introduce the sub-genre new jack swing with her collaborating with James “Jimmy Jam” Harris III and Terry Lewis (who were ex-members of The Time and former associates of Prince).
Janet and the duo would go on to collaborate on albums released after this one, but Control beautifully showcased the power these three had when it came to a body of work. Selling over 10 million records worldwide, Control gave the singer her first number 1 album, and made the singer the first female artist to have five top five hits from one album. Miss Jackson, if ya nasty!
2. “Purple Rain” by Prince and the Revolution
Released: June 25, 1984
Label: Warner Bros.
Genre: Pop ∙ rock ∙ gospel ∙ R&B ∙ funk-pop
Producer: Prince & the Revolution
Markiz’s favorites: Darling Nikki ∙ The Beautiful Ones ∙ When Doves Cry ∙ Purple Rain ∙ Let’s Go Crazy ∙ I Would Die 4 U
In 2012, Purple Rain was added to the Library of Congress’s National Recording Registry list of sound recordings that “are culturally, historically, or aesthetically important, and it is exactly that. Although it is the soundtrack to the 1984 cult classic film of the same name, it was the album that made Prince a superstar.
The album has ZERO skips, I mean literally! While Purple Rain is one of the best masterpieces of all time, the album caused a lot of controversy in its heyday. The lyrical content on the album cut Darling Nikki was controversial and is the reason why the implementation of Parental Advisory stickers and imprints are on album covers (it’s apart of the filthy fifteen list!). The video to When Doves Cry was too explicit for television in the 80s like whew!
There’s so many albums that Prince has released that could have been worthy of having this spot, but it is something so nostalgic, organic and ICONIC about Purple Rain that sets it apart from his entire catalog. It’s truly an album real music lovers will enjoy for generations to come. Purple Rain has sold over 25 million copies and established Prince as one of the most iconic artists of the 1980s.
1. “Thriller” by Michael Jackson
Released: November 29, 1982
Label: Epic
Genre: Pop ∙ post-disco ∙ rock ∙ funk ∙ synth-pop ∙ R&B
Producer: Quincy Jones ∙ Michael Jackson
Markiz’s favorites: Beat It ∙ Human Nature ∙ The Lady in My Life ∙ The Girl Is Mine ∙ Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’
If Thriller isn’t the greatest album of all time to you, I do not trust your opinion when it comes to music. The cultural significance and importance of Thriller is truly insane in a good way. Thriller changed a lot of things for Black and pop culture simultaneously, breaking down so many musical barriers for people of color to have their music videos shown on MTV and their music back to mainstream radio. The album made Michael Jackson a global sensation overnight and to date is the most important figure in pop music.
Thriller’s legacy will always stand the test of time because of the innovative storytelling, the music videos that turned into mini films, and iconic production. Every year around Halloween, the title track gets played everywhere with mobs of people dressed like Michael was in the music video and the album peaks within the top ten on the album charts. That is how you make an album. I mean the album has sold over 70-100 million copies. COME ON! Where every single song on the album had potential to be a hit. When “every song is a killer” on your album, you’ll always be the king. -MW.
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