The 2000s R&B Golden Age

The 2000s saw R&B expand from soulful ballads into crunk, hip-hop, pop, and dance music.

2004: Peak Year for R&B

Exactly half of 2004’s No. 1s were R&B songs, all performed by Black artists.

Usher’s 'U Got It Bad' Tops List

Usher’s 'U Got It Bad' is ranked #1 on Complex’s list of the 50 best 2000s R&B songs.

“Usher’s 'U Got It Bad'”

Mariah Carey’s Comeback

Mariah Carey’s 'We Belong Together' is ranked second on Complex’s list of the 50 best 2000s R&B songs.

“We Belong Together”

D’Angelo’s Neo-Soul Landmark

D’Angelo’s 'Untitled (How Does It Feel)' is ranked third on Complex’s list of the 50 best 2000s R&B songs.

“Untitled (How Does It Feel)”

Key Artists of the Era

The list features artists like Beyoncé, Alicia Keys, Ashanti, and R. Kelly.

2004: Confessions Album

Usher’s 'Confessions Part II' is highlighted as a storytelling epic from his 2004 album.

“Confessions Part II”

R. Kelly’s 'I Wish'

R. Kelly’s 'I Wish' is noted for its emotional depth and connection to his mother.

“I Wish”

Erykah Badu’s 'Didn’t Cha Know'

Erykah Badu’s 'Didn’t Cha Know' is described as a neo-soul classic with Grammy nominations.

“Didn’t Cha Know”

Beyoncé’s 'Single Ladies'

Beyoncé’s 'Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)' is ranked among the best 2000s R&B songs.

“Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)”

Alicia Keys’ 'You Don’t Know My Name'

Alicia Keys’ 'You Don’t Know My Name' is highlighted as a masterclass in emotional expression.

“You Don’t Know My Name”

Ashanti’s 'Rock wit U'

Ashanti’s 'Rock wit U (Awww Baby)' is noted as a defining early-2000s R&B track.

“Rock wit U (Awww Baby)”

2000s R&B Legacy

The 2000s R&B era left a lasting impact on music with influential artists and songs.