2024 has proven to be a significant year for R&B collaborations, as several noteworthy ventures have redefined and expanded the genre. A few collaborations have distinguished themselves as innovative and influential in culture even though  many artists have created incredible work. 

“Good Good” by Usher, Summer Walker, and 21 Savages

Summer Walker and 21 Savage appear on Usher's "Good Good," one of the most talked-about joint projects of the year, featuring Summer Walker. This song is at the top of modern R&B and was included in Usher's “Coming Home”. By returning to his roots and embracing contemporary trends simultaneously, Usher shows that he can stay relevant even after thirty years in the music business.

The song has a distinct flavor due to the synergy between Usher, Walker, and Savage; it combines hip-hop components, classic R&B, and the seductive vocals that have come to characterize this era. As a single, it demonstrates Usher’s ongoing dominance in the genre and represents a pinnacle in his remarkable career.

“Simple Things” by Emotional Oranges & Nonso Amadi

The collaboration between Nigerian-Canadian artist Nonso Amadi and Los Angeles group Emotional Oranges on the song “Simple Things” is another gem. This song, released earlier this year, combines Amadi’s rich, Afro-fusion influence with the Emotional Orange’s simple, soulful sentiments. The song’s ambient, mellow composition perfectly captures the spirit of emotional fragility. This exemplifies how R&B is progressing by incorporating sounds and inspirations worldwide.

“Gangsta” by Free Nationals, Anderson .Paak & A$AP Rocky

Another standout collaboration of the year is “Gangsta,” which features the Free Nationals, Anderson .Paak, and A$AP Rocky. Renowned for their ability to combine R&B and rap with ease, Anderson. Paak and the Free Nationals take the song to new heights with A$AP Rocky's sassy lyrics and Paak's soulful delivery. This song is one of the most exciting releases of 2024 and shows how genre-bending keeps elevating R&B.

The R&B scene this year has also been affected by  other collaborations. As a celebration of his Super Bowl Halftime Show, Usher’s “BIG” from his “Coming Home” album stands out, and Bryson Tiller’s self-titled album has several excellent joint tracks. Due to their ability to blend R&B with other genres like funk and Afrobeat, both performers have become well-known. 

All things considered, 2024 has been a fantastic year for R&B, with collaborations giving listeners a blend of nostalgic feelings and modern, international inspirations. These collaborations have unquestionably raise the standards for R&B, whether because of Usher’s genre-defying chemistry, Nonso Amadi’s Afro-fusion fire, or Anderson Paak’s distinctive voice.