Throwback Thursday: K-R&B Songs To Add To Your Playlist Part 2

Photo: SM Entertainment

Back in 2023, we talked about K-R&B tracks you should add to your playlist. So many songs by talented artists fall under the R&B genre, and each brings its own distinct flair. So, let’s take it back and talk about some K-R&B tracks that should definitely be in your playlist. 

õffshore - “Just Stay (feat. Def. & JUNNY)” 

On June 4, 2020, K-R&B and K-Hip-Hop production and crew õffshore released their two-track EP Cut #1 (feat. Def.) - Single. The release showcases õffshore's production skills and vocals through a smooth R&B sound. The release includes the track “Just Stay (feat. Def. & JUNNY).” The track features two R&B icons, Def., also known as soloist and GOT7 leader JAY B, and soloist and producer JUNNY. The track centers on their distinct vocal tones, and both demonstrate considerable vocal stamina and precision throughout. “Just Stay (feat. Def. & JUNNY)” is a groovy R&B track with a funk inspiration. The track's propulsive beat makes listeners want to dance, while Def. and JUNNY's vocals make them want to sing along. It’s a memorable track that, on the first listen, listeners can’t help but sing along. 

JAEHYUN - “Roses” 

On August 26, 2024, the NCT member and soloist JAEHYUN released his solo album J - The 1st Album. With eight memorable tracks, J - The 1st Album is an R&B release that showcases JAEHYUN's versatility and vocals. Before the album's release, JAEHYUN released two tracks ahead of the album on a single titled Roses/Dandelion - Single. The first track, “Roses,” is an R&B track with smooth vocals and a catchy R&B instrumental. The English-language track draws listeners in with its understated, intimate production. JAEHYUN’s deep, smooth vocals showcase his spectacular range throughout. His vocal runs flow with apparent ease, and his falsetto transitions are smooth and controlled. Throughout the song, listeners can hear the angst and emotion in his voice. The breakup song is heartbreaking, and the hurt comes through in every word. “I’m triggered every year Valentine's,” and “You don’t call me (yeah, yeah). You moved on like you’d had enough,” are examples of the lyrics, and listeners can hear the storytelling clearly, and the emotion carries through every line.

BAEKHYUN - “Bungee” 

On May 25, 2020, the well-known vocalist BAEKHYUN released his upbeat R&B album, Delight - The 2nd Mini Album. It features standout tracks like “Candy,” “Poppin’,” and “R U Ridin’?” This album is packed with energetic tracks built for dancing, but it also includes tracks that inspire the kind of full-throated singing-along that turns any object into a makeshift microphone. One B-side that particularly highlights BAEKHYUN's vocal abilities is "Bungee." This smooth jazz R&B track is a slow jam that relaxes listeners and lets them hear BAEKHYUN’s stunning vocals. The track features a calming instrumental built on piano, guitar, and light percussion. While the instrumental is mellow, BAEKHYUN’s strong vocals shine through, with riffs and vocal runs that will have listeners coming back for more. It is a compelling addition to any K-R&B playlist.