UB’s ‘Top 30 Greatest R&B Duets’ | Stream the Spotify Playlist

UB‘s “Top 30 Greatest R&B Duets,” R&B is the greatest music on earth, by far if you ask us.

Artists have been collaborating on music, since the beginning of time. When it comes to soul, blues and R&B artists, they have a history of bringing added emotions out of each other, unlike records of their own.

The late great balladeer Luther Vandross, along with Beyoncé, Mary J. Blige, Faith Evans, and Brandy all have two entries each on our list.

The late great Gerald LeVert and Keith Sweat, being apart of LSG, have the most, with three. Gerald is a songwriter of a fourth entry.

UB has also created a Spotify playlist, for your listening pleasure.

Check Out our Top 30 Greatest R&B Duets!

30. “Hurts Too Much to Stay” (2000) | Gerald LeVert and Kelly Price

One duet album R&B lovers were cheated out of, was a full collaboration duets album from the late great Gerald LeVert and Kelly Price.

The two power vocalists and songwriters were great friends and worked together often. Word is a duets album was in the works, before Gerald’s untimely death in November of 2006. The pairs vocals and arrangements, always meshed together like peanut butter and jelly.

“Hurts Too Much to Stay” encapsulates the pain and turmoil of a failing relationship by delving deep into the profound emotions experienced when love begins to fade. The lyrics reflect the pain and turmoil they faced in a failing romantic bond.

Only thee Kelly Price could melodize; “Going to jail, because I killed your girl, going to jail because I killed your girl!”

29. “Crazy Feelings” (1999) | Missy Elliott feat. Beyoncé

“Crazy Feelings” is about the struggles and complexities of being in love with someone who is not good for you. Missy and an emerging Beyoncé, blend extremely well on this ballad.

The song serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of staying in unhealthy relationships and the detrimental effects it can have on one’s self-worth and personal growth.

28. “Where Is The Love” (1972) | Donny Hathaway and Roberta Flack

Released in 1972 from their collaboration album, “Roberta Flack & Donny Hathaway.” The song peaked at #5 on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart and spent a week each at #1 on the Billboard Easy Listening chart.

Written by percussionist Ralph MacDonald and bass player William Salter, the song was for The 5th Dimension. However MacDonald was working on the session for the Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway album, and when they needed one more song, he offered it to them.

“Where Is The Love” is about a relationship that is not working out. Unlike most male/female duets, they aren’t singing to each other, but are both taking the role of the person who is on the short end of the relationship.

27. “I’d Still Say Yes” (1986) | Klymaxx featuring Howard Hewett

Written by Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, Greg Scelsa, and Joyce “Fenderella” Irby, and produced by Fenderella, the single was released as the third single from their fifth album, “Klymaxx.”

The song features backing vocals by Howard Hewett. It peaked at #7 on Billboard’s Black Singles chart, and #18 on the Billboard Hot 100, it was the group’s final Hot 100 entry.

26. “Can’t Believe” (2001) | Faith Evans feat. Carl Thomas

Written and produced by Sean Combs and Mario Winans for Faith’s third album “Faithfully.” The song reached #14 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.

“Can’t Believe” explores the emotional journey of a relationship that has ended in disappointment and heartbreak.

The lyrics reflect on a once hopeful and happy connection that has now turned into a faded picture, symbolizing the loss of love and the dissolution of trust.

25. “Don’t Waste Your Time” (1999) | Mary J. Blige feat. Aretha Franklin

The Queen of Hip-Hop Soul and the Queen of Soul’s first collaboration had to make the list. The song was nominated for a Grammy for Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group.

“Don’t Waste Your Time” speaks about a woman who is in a relationship with a man who is no longer fully committed to her. The first verse depicts the woman’s doubts about her relationship, and she feels that her partner is not completely present when they are together.

However, her partner blames her for any issues in their relationship. Despite this blame-shifting, the woman realizes that her partner is not fully focused on her during intimacy.

24. “No Matter What You Do” (1990) | Al B. Sure! & Diana Ross

For whatever reason, when Warner Bros. released the second single from Al B. Sure!’s “Private Times…and the Whole 9!” album, a duet with Diana Ross entitled “No Matter What You Do,” she got top billings over his song.

Regardless of the reason, the smooth ballad was the perfect mesh of vocals from the pair, that we didn’t know we needed.

“No Matter What You Do,” peaked at #4 on the Billboard R&B chart. The single was Diana Ross’ final Top Ten R&B hit.

23. “Love Saw It” (1988) | Karyn White and Babyface

The song was Karyn White’s third consecutive #1 hit on the Billboard R&B chart, even without a video.

“Love Saw It” explores the transformative power of love in the lives of two individuals who were initially skeptical about its existence.

The lyrics depict their personal journeys as they discover love and how it completely changes their perspective.

22. “Nothing Even Matters” (1998) | Lauryn Hill and D’Angelo

The song is an ode to the power of love and how it can overshadow all other aspects of life. The verses talk about how nothing else seems to matter when the two lovers are together.

Even the biggest disasters, the smallest inconveniences, or the most tempting distractions are not a match against the love they have.

21. “All I Want Is You” (2000) | Gerald LeVert with Kelly Price And K-Ci

The song explores the intense emotions of someone deeply in love and willing to do anything for their partner. It delves into the vulnerability and longing experienced when separated from the one you love.

The main message of “All I Want Is You,” is the overwhelming desire to be with the person you love. It emphasizes the idea that love can consume every aspect of your life, making you long for nothing else but the presence and affection of your partner.

20. “This Lil’ Game We Play” (1994) | Subway feat. 702

Written and produced by Gerald LeVert and Edwin “Tony” Nicholas, the gold single spent 20 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at #15.

“This Lil’ Game We Play” explores the dynamics of a playful and flirtatious relationship.

Through the lyrics, the song depicts a back-and-forth power struggle between two individuals who enjoy engaging in mind games and teasing each other.

19. “I Don’t Want to Do Anything” (1992) | Mary J Blige and K-Ci Haily

Written and produced by DeVante Swing. Mary J Blige and K-Ci were a couple in real life.

“I Don’t Want to Do Anything” expresses their deep desire to love and be loved in return. The chorus emphasizing the importance of love as the central focus in their lives.

A live version was performed and released on “Uptown MTV Unplugged,” a live complication album.

18. “All The Times” (1997) | LSG feat. Faith Evans, Coko & Missy Elliott

The song was never released as a single, but peaked at #58 on Billboards R&B airplay chart.

“All The Times” could be interpreted two ways, one about a group of friends who have known each other for a long time and are finally getting the chance to be together. They’re happy to spend time together and make sweet music.

The other could be a relationship of two, with the same meaning.

17. “Brokenhearted” (1995) | Brandy feat. Wanya Morris

Written and produced by Kipper Jones and Keith Crouch. A rerecorded duet version featuring Wanya Morris, was produced by Soulshock and Karlin.

The single went gold and peaked at #9 on the Billboard Hot 100.

“Brokenhearted” is your standard breakup song, but with a positive message that, “life’s not over.”

16. “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” (1967) | Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell

Written by the husband and wife hit songwriting duo of Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpson, “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” was first a Top 20 single for Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell.

The song was inspired by a walk through Central Park, Manhattan, and the mountain of the title was the city’s skyscrapers, representing the ambition of songwriter Nick Ashford.

“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” reached #19 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #3 on the Billboard Hot Rhythm & Blues Singles chart. The single went platinum in multiple countries and triple platinum the the UK.

15. “We Can’t Be Friends” (1999) | Deborah Cox and R.L.

Deborah’s second gold single to reach #1 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs, and peaking at #8 on the Billboard Hot 100.

“We Can’t Be Friends” is about the aftermath of a break-up, and the difficulty of transitioning from being in a romantic relationship to becoming just friends.

Then coming to the realization, that you can’t be friends.

14. “Spend My Life With You” (1999) | Eric Benet feat. Tamia

The song was nominated for a Grammy and spent three weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.

The gold single also peaked at #21 on the Billboard Hot 100.

“Spend My Life With You” expresses a deep desire for commitment and a lifelong partnership. The lyrics convey the newfound sense of completeness and purpose.

13. “You Don’t Have To Cry” (1985) | Rene & Angela

The single peaked at #2 on Billboards R&B chart and was their last Top 10 as a duo.

“You Don’t Have To Cry” conveys a message of support and comfort to someone going through a difficult time.

The lyrics assure the listener that they don’t have to face their struggles alone, because you’ll be right by their side to help them be strong.

12 “Secret Lovers” (1985) | Atlantic Starr

Atlantic Starr’s David Lewis once stated, ‘”Secret Lovers” has “a hymnal chord structure,” with the melody leading the audience into the sing-along chorus.”

The song was the first crossover single for the group reaching #3 on the Billboard Hot 100. The gold single reached #1 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart and #3 on Billboard’s Hot Black Singles chart.

“Secret Lovers” delves into the complexities of a relationship that exists in the shadows. It portrays the experience of those who find themselves torn between the commitments they have made in their current relationships and their undeniable connection with someone else.

The song conveys the feelings of guilt, longing, and the constant struggle between desire and obligation.

11. “The Closer I Get To You” (2004) | Luther Vandross duet with Beyoncé

Written by legendary James Mtume and Reggie Lucas, and was originally recorded by Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway.

The single spent eight weeks and reached #60 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay chart and features background vocals from Cissy Houston.

“The Closer I Get To You” tells the story of a couple getting closer to one another and recognizing that their connection is more than just friendship.

10. “If This World Were Mine” (1982) | Luther Vandross and Cheryl Lynn

That year a virtual unknown, Luther Vandross, became one of the most sought-after talents in the country. Besides his own musical endeavors, he produced music for Aretha Franklin, Deniece Williams, and Cheryl Lynn.

The song peaked at #27 on the Billboard R&B singles chart and #30 on the Hot 100.

“If This World Were Mine” depicts a passionate declaration of love between two individuals. It speaks of the beauty of having a love that surpasses everything else in the world

9. “Nobody” (1996) | Keith Sweat feat. Athena Cage

The song spent three weeks at #1 on the US Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart and reached #3 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The message of “Nobody” is simple, that true love is hard to find and when you do find it, you should hold on to it. The song is a declaration of love.

8. “Same Script, Different Cast” | Whitney Houston and Deborah Cox

The single reached #14 on Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and #4 on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart.

The two complement each other perfectly. The song is sung as if it’s a scene between two actors.

From the simple, classical piano intro, it builds gradually, growing more intense musically as the story intensifies, ultimately culminating in a powerfully performed finale with full strings, magnificent high notes, and all the emotion that comes with an expertly written lyric.

7. “My First Love” (2000) | Avant Introducing KeKe Wyatt

The single reached #3 on the Billboard R&B Singles chart and went platinum.

“We decided to remake “My First Love” because the song has a certain effect on people, or at least on me,” stated Avant. “You always remember that first person. They set up the way the rest of your romantic life will go good or bad.”

“My First Love” is a heartfelt ode to a past love that holds a special place in the narrator’s heart. It speaks of a relationship that may have ended but the memories and feelings associated with that first love endure.

6. “Make It Last Forever” (1987) | Keith Sweat and Jacci McGhee

Written and produced by Keith Sweat and Teddy Riley. The single reached #2 Hot Black Singles chart and peaked at #59 on the Billboard Hot 100.

“Make It Last Forever” explores the depths of love and the desire to make a relationship stand the test of time.

5. “The Secret Garden (Sweet Seduction Suite)” (1990) | Quincy Jones featuring Al B. Sure!, James Ingram, El DeBarge, and Barry White

Written by Quincy Jones, Rod Temperton, Siedah Garrett and DeBarge and produced by Quincy.

The gold single reached #1 on the Billboard R&B chart and # 31 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The songs concept is opening up to someone and sharing your deepest desires, thoughts, and feelings. Each of the four balladeers sing a seductive verse, directed to their lady.

4. “The Boy Is Mine” (1995) | Brandy and Monica

“The Boy Is Mine” became the best-selling song of 1995, selling 2.6 million copies, and spent 13 weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100.

Written by LaShawn Daniels, Japhe Tejeda, Fred Jerkins III, Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins, and Brandy, and produced by Rodney, Brandy, and Dallas Austin.

Inspired by Michael Jackson and Paul McCartney’s 1982 duet “The Girl Is Mine.”

The song tells a story of two women fighting over a man who has been leading them both on, and how they come to the realization that he is not worth their time or energy.

3. “Baby, Come to Me” (1982) | Patti Austin and James Ingram

The single reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Written by Rod Temperton and produced by Quincy Jones.

In the song, the couple agrees that they are perfect for each other, and that life is so much better now that they’re together.

2. “Saturday Love” (1985) | Cherrelle With Alexander O’Neal

Written and produced by Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, the single peaked at #2 on the Billboard R&B chart and #26 on the Hot 100.

“Saturday Love” speaks about cherishing relationships, unforgettable memories, and recognizing a true connection.

1. “Fire and Desire” (1981) | Rick James & Teena Marie

Written and produced by Rick James.

The autobiographical story of a soured relationship love song, between two lovers, runs over 7 minutes.

“Fire and Desire” is about lovers, who have split. Once they reunite, they start reminiscing about the past, when Rick was the player type, and Teena turned him out.

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