The Hottest R&B Artists of 2026 Right Now: Staff Picks
Categoria: Musica
Billboard staff returns to the roundtable to break down some of R&B's brightest stars so far in 2026.
Por Billboard | 23/07/2026
R&B continues to have a vice grip on the music scene. The conversation about whether the genre has a heartbeat no longer exists, especially with the rise and continued success of many of the names on this year’s list. Last year, Chris Brown was crowned our Hottest R&B Artist of 2025 after blitzing the U.S. with his Breezy Bowl Tour. Brown’s 20-year catalogue, longevity and showmanship were on full display as he also provided a stage for his contemporaries — Bryson Tiller, Summer Walker and Jhené Aiko — to shine and conquer. This year, the competition is even tougher. The net has widened, as esteemed legends like Jill Scott have made grand returns, while some of the genre’s most consistent hitters, like 6LACK and Ella Mai, reminded many why they remain formidable talents in the space. And after watching Leon Thomas and Kehlani ascend to incredible heights, both artists defied the R&B gods by dreaming bigger and delivering arguably the best seasons of their careers. For Thomas, the precocious singer-songwriter is fully off the leash. No longer strictly defined by his songwriting prowess, he’s evolved into a go-to feature savant, lending his vocal talents to anyone seeking his services. This year alone, he’s landed double-digit features, and the number continues to climb. Meanwhile, Kehlani’s steady patience has finally become her greatest asset. After 10 years of playing the waiting game, Kehlani blossomed into her long-awaited peak as an R&B superstar, courtesy of her spellbinding hit “Folded.” The Billboard Hot 100 smash peaked at No. 6, and has since been the gift that keeps on giving, bringing her Grammy Awards, television performances and much more. With so many rightful contenders, Billboard ‘s staff had the arduous task of putting together the Hottest R&B Artists of 2026 Right Now, based on the following criteria: chart success, vocal performance, musical and lyrical resonance, cultural buzz, touring success, and business endeavors and partnerships. Check out the full list below, and come back at the end of the year for our staff’s final rankings.