Top 10 R&B Songs of 1997

Here’s a Top 10 R&B Songs of 1997 list – these tracks defined the year with a mix of smooth ballads, hip-hop-infused grooves, and timeless slow jams:

Top 10 R&B Songs of 1997

1. “You Make Me Wanna…” – Usher

   • A breakthrough smash for Usher, blending sleek production with his youthful charm. It set the tone for his superstar career.

2. “Nobody’s Supposed to Be Here” – Deborah Cox

   • A powerhouse ballad that became her signature song. It dominated radio and stood as one of the biggest R&B ballads of the decade.

3. “My Body” – LSG (Gerald Levert, Keith Sweat, Johnny Gill)

   • Three R&B giants teamed up for this sultry anthem that stayed at the top of the charts.

4. “All My Life” – K-Ci & JoJo

   • A heartfelt ballad that crossed over to pop audiences, solidifying the brothers as more than just members of Jodeci.

5. “4 Page Letter” – Aaliyah

   • A tender, hypnotic track showcasing Aaliyah’s soft vocals and Missy Elliott/Timbaland’s futuristic production.

6. “In My Bed (So So Def Remix)” – Dru Hill

   • The remix with Jermaine Dupri and Da Brat turned Dru Hill’s hit into a club favorite, cementing their place in 90s R&B.

7. “For You I Will” – Monica

   • A big ballad from the Space Jam soundtrack that showcased Monica’s strong vocals and became a wedding favorite.

8. “Cupid” – 112

   • A sweet and soulful ballad that highlighted the group’s harmonies and Bad Boy’s influence on 90s R&B.

9. “How Do I Breathe Without You” – Toni Braxton (“Un-Break My Heart”) [still dominating 1997 charts]

   • Released late 1996, but spent much of 1997 at No.1, cementing its place as one of the era’s most iconic ballads.

10. “I Belong to You (Every Time I See Your Face)” – Rome

• A smooth one-hit wonder that became an instant classic for quiet storm playlists.

✨ 1997 was a golden year where romantic ballads and hip-hop/R&B blends dominated the charts, and many of these songs are still staples at weddings, karaoke nights, and “90s throwback” playlists.

Chart historyR&B