The 1990s was the peak of R&B music. Artists were more open to working together and producers promoted remixes just as hard as singles.
R&B music appeals to a mellower crowd than its hard bass counterpart, featuring soothing instrumentals and emotive hooks that appeal to slow dancing or romantic nights alike. These 10 RnB songs remix are ideal for slow dancing or romantic nights out!
1. Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell – What’s Going On
Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell formed one of the greatest duos in Motown history when they released hit after hit that made everyone dance on the dance floor. From classics such as Ain’t No Mountain High Enough and I Heard It Through the Grapevine to sexually charged What’s Going On, their chemistry could be seen on every song they recorded together; their songs left an indelible mark on us that would last decades afterward.
What’s Going On is an iconic concept album released by Gaye in 1971 that remains highly relevant today. An introspective look into his world, What’s Going On has been credited with helping bring awareness of ecological issues before they became prevalent issues today. While slightly more mature than his previous work, What’s Going On still features elements of pop and R&B to keep its content accessible for casual listeners.
What’s Going On is an honest assessment of world affairs at that moment in time, exploring whether the planet was improving. The song poses the question “Are Things Really Improving or Are People Just Pretending to Care About Our Needs,” while telling listeners they must take charge and protect themselves without waiting for someone else to care for them.
What’s Going On was a highly controversial song during its time, causing quite an uproar when first released by Marvin Gaye and Berry Gordy at Motown Records. Gordy initially refused to release it due to concerns that it might alienate some fans; but Gaye was passionate about the track and went on strike until it finally got released; over time it became one of his greatest hits ever and cemented Gaye as one of history’s great artists.
This music video for this classic tune was shot during Expo ’67 in Montreal. It shows Terrell and Gaye performing it under an illuminated plastic dome – quite an achievement given that this was shot back in 1967!
2. Dru Hill & Mariah Carey – Fantasy
Dru Hill’s blend of R&B, hip hop and funk was the perfect complement for Carey since Butterfly. Honey introduced Mariah’s musical palette to R&B; To the Floor featured an infectious hooky beat. Sisqo added his vocal talents for an additional danceable edge on this remix of To the Floor by giving a boost on vocals; both tracks would become favorites among Mariah fans alike.
Fantasy, featuring group lead singer Sisqo, showcased Carey’s sample-savvy prowess that helped her conquer R&B music. Packed with busy synth, booming bass, and club beats that would fit right in at any club, the track elevated itself above its predecessor despite Carey not sounding quite as seductive here as she had with its initial version.
Butterfly had featured some hip hop elements, but this collaboration marked her first true hip hop effort. The title itself describes Carey’s feelings towards someone out of reach; additionally, Carey showcases her impressive vocal range to prove she didn’t intend on being boxed into any particular genre.
At another stand-out point in Carey’s album is when she takes a more pop-driven song like Fourth of July for a spin, showing off the creative freedom granted after her divorce from Tommy Mottola. Though cliche-ridden at times, it still manages to provide an enjoyable listen.
One of the more engaging tracks on Mariah’s album is her cover version of Prince’s 1983 track, The Beautiful Ones. Here she showcases her knack for crafting melodic and catchy pop tunes; production features a sample from her group’s 1984 hit version; it makes for a delightful listening experience.
3. Horace Brown & Foxy Brown – One for the Money
Horace Brown’s story is one of perseverance. Born and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina, Brown experienced life within a musical household – his father playing piano and organ; mother singing church choir; learning various instruments along with eventually landing professional musical jobs: backing singer for Jodeci; writing songs for Ill Na Na group among them.
Brown eventually joined forces in the studio with Keith Sweat, Monica, MisTeeq Groove Theory and Eric Benet – as well as starting his own production company with entertainment veteran Tony Vanias – creating soulful yet catchy melodies which became signature pieces for Michael Jackson Mary J Blige and Blackstreet artists alike.
Brown created waves when his song, “Taste Your Love”, an ode to oral sex that was banned in some regions of the U.S. was released; unfortunately it failed to perform on charts and his Uptown Records album was cancelled as a result.
R&B singers may occasionally branch into Hip-Hop music, but rarely can their names make the top of the charts. This song stands out as being an exception; featuring none other than legendary rapper Method Man as guest artist! At a time when remixes often felt like cash grabs, this track felt genuine as both artists performed together seamlessly; with contributions from producers Trackmasters, Puffy and Mobb Deep; this classic remains timeless today.