5 of the Best (And Slightly Underrated) R&B Songs From the 1980s

R&B had a heck of an era in the 1980s. So many songs from that particularly glittering, funky decade have unfortunately been forgotten about today. Let’s refresh our collective memory with five of the best (and maybe even a little underrated) R&B songs from the 1980s!

1. “Back Together Again” by Donny Hathaway and Roberta Flack

These two powerhouse vocalists were absolutely made to make music together. “Back Together Again” is a collaboration between soul-disco icons Donny Hathaway and Roberta Flack, released in 1980. There’s something so soothing, groovy, and nostalgic about this particular R&B track. It’s unforgettable, to say the least.

2. “Groove Me” by Guy

They don’t make R&B trios quite like Guy anymore. This outfit released the hit single “Groove Me” back in 1988. The whole of their self-titled debut album was loaded with hits, too. “Teddy’s Jam”, “I Like”, and “‘Round And ‘Round (Merry Go ‘Round Of Love)” are also essential listening for anyone who loves new jack swing tunes from the late 80s.

3. “Don’t Stop The Music” by Yarbrough & Peoples

This has to be one of the best R&B songs from the 1980s. “Don’t Stop The Music” by Yarbrough & Peoples is an incredible soulful song from the duo’s 1980 debut The Two Of Us. In fact, we’d say the whole of that R&B boogie album is essential listening.

4. “Never Knew Love Like This Before” by Stephanie Mills

Some would argue that Stephanie Mills is far from underrated, but we think she deserves her flowers more than ever. Back in 1980, Mills released her biggest career single “Never Knew Love Like This Before”. 

The song wasn’t written by Mills, though. That credit goes to James Mtume and Reggie Lucas, the latter of which was inspired to write the song after the birth of his daughter.

5. “Celebration” by Kool & The Gang

Nothing encompasses the very heart of funk music quite like the 1980 hit “Celebration” by Kool & The Gang. This celebrated post-disco hit managed to reach no. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 that year, and it has since earned a place in the Grammy Hall of Fame. 

Warning: This song will definitely get stuck in your head after just one thorough listen.

Photo by ABC Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content

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