R&B has gone through its ups and dones in the past several years - actually ever since it was eclipsed by Hip-Hop as America's favorite urban music. But despite that, 2006 was actually a good year for R&B. Some of the most talented stars in the genre released albums, including Beyonce, John Legend, Brian McKnight and the underrated Donell Jones. With that said, your Guide to R&B presents his list of the 10 best R&B/Soul albums of 2006. By the way, Mary J. Blige's The Breakthrough album is ineligible for inclusion because it was released in December 2005. If not for that, it would be right at the top of the list.
1. "Born & Raised," Joy Denalane
If you're not up on who this Afro-German Soul singer is, check out the About R&B review of this import CD. Here's an excerpt:
"Joy Denalane has gotten barely a fraction the attention that the British Soul singer Joss Stone has received in the U.S., but Denalane is arguably far more talented, polished and emotive ... Denalane, unlike some modern vocalists, doesn't oversing the songs, nor do her vocals lack genuine emotion."
"Joy Denalane has gotten barely a fraction the attention that the British Soul singer Joss Stone has received in the U.S., but Denalane is arguably far more talented, polished and emotive ... Denalane, unlike some modern vocalists, doesn't oversing the songs, nor do her vocals lack genuine emotion."
2. "Testimony: Vol. 1, Life & Relationship," India.Arie
Despite being a household name, India's still underrated. But from top to bottom, Testimony: Vol 1 is a wonderful reaffirmation of how wonderful life can be, if you only take the time to realize it. Here's your Guide's review of the disc.
3. "B'Day," Beyonce
From "Deja Vu" to "Ring the Alarm" to "Irreplaceable," B'Day gave us some of the strongest, most memorable urban pop singles of the year.4. "The Phoenix," Lyfe Jennings
From the ashes of the old, The Phoenix rises, beautiful and bright. Here's your Guide's review of the disc.5. "Once Again," John Legend
Although not as immediately engaging as his last release, the simmering Once Again is still head and shoulders above most of what passes for R&B these days. For more insight, check the review.6. "Ghetto Classics," Jaheim
Jaheim has arguably the best male voice in contemporary music: his rich, warm baritone, knack for musical storytelling and flair for drama are amazing. Check out our review of Ghetto Classics here.7. "Get Used to It," The Brand New Heavies
After a long layoff and the return of singer N'Dea Davenport to the group, the Heavies brought back the Funk in music. And they did it both marvelously and effortlessly. For more, check out the About R&B review of the CD.8. "Ten," Brian McKnight
A bolder, cockier, rejuvinated Brian McKnight crafted his best album in years. Yes sir. He sure did.9. "Journey of a Gemini," Donell Jones
Although he'll probably never achieve the same superstar status in the mainstream music world as some artists, there's no doubt that you know what's up: Donell Jones is one of the best songwriters of our time. And he proves this again and again on Journey of a Gemini. Check the review for more insight.10. "Son of Pain," Governor
It still befuddles your Guide as to how and why so many people completely slept on this great modern Soul album. Then again on the other hand, the reason the album's not higher on this list is because its last six songs are nowhere as good as the front seven. Read the review here.