1987 was a landmark year for R&B and soul music. It was a time when artists were blending traditional soul with the fresh sounds of synthesizers, new jack swing, and polished production, creating music that would resonate across generations. This was more than just entertainment—it was the soundtrack of people’s lives, accompanying everything from Saturday night parties to Sunday afternoon cleanups.
For many of us who grew up during that time, these songs are woven into our memories. They remind us of house parties, family gatherings, the excitement of first love, and even those quiet moments when we found comfort in a good song playing on the radio. R&B and soul music in 1987 carried the richness of our culture, our joy, our struggles, and our dreams.
Whether you experienced these tracks firsthand or are just now discovering them, this list offers a glimpse into a year when Black music was thriving in both creative expression and mainstream success. Before diving into the top 20, let’s take a moment to acknowledge a few songs that also made a significant impact but didn’t quite make this list. These honorable mentions still deserve a round of applause:
- “Stop To Love” – Luther Vandross
- “Didn’t We Almost Have It All” – Whitney Houston
- “Bad” – Michael Jackson
- “Diamonds” – Herb Alpert (featuring Janet Jackson)
- “Lost In Emotion” – Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam
- “Victory” – Kool & The Gang
- “Ballerina Girl” – Lionel Richie
- “Girlfriend” – Bobby Brown
- “There’s Nothing Better Than Love” – Luther Vandross & Gregory Hines
- “Smooth Sailin’ Tonight” – The Isley Brothers
- “Have You Ever Loved Somebody” – Freddie Jackson
- “Why You Treat Me So Bad” – Club Nouveau
Now, let’s count down the 20 most iconic R&B and soul singles of 1987 — the songs that defined the year and left a lasting imprint on our musical history.
20. “Happy” – Surface
This feel-good tune offered a simple yet powerful message of joy and contentment. With its smooth rhythm and warm vocals, “Happy” became an anthem of love and positivity that still brings a smile today.
19. “Caught Up In The Rapture” – Anita Baker
Few voices command attention the way Anita Baker’s does. “Caught Up In The Rapture” is a timeless ballad filled with elegance and emotion. It represents grown, mature love, expressed through pure vocal artistry.
18. “Love You Down” – Ready For The World
This romantic slow jam struck a perfect balance between innocence and sensuality. With its lush synthesizers and intimate tone, “Love You Down” became a staple for slow dances and late-night radio.
17. “Fake” – Alexander O’Neal
With a confident delivery and a high-energy beat, Alexander O’Neal called out superficial behavior in “Fake.” The production was sharp, and the message was clear — authenticity matters.
16. “Love Is A House” – Force MD’s
Using the metaphor of a house to describe love, this track was creative, heartfelt, and harmonically rich. The Force MD’s brought together pop and soul elements in a way that connected deeply with listeners.
15. “Control” – Janet Jackson
Janet Jackson took full command of her image and sound with this powerful track. “Control” was a declaration of independence, self-respect, and growth, marking a pivotal moment in her career.
14. “Let’s Wait A While” – Janet Jackson
In contrast to “Control,” this ballad offered a message of patience and emotional maturity. Janet’s gentle delivery and the song’s message of restraint and respect stood out in an industry often driven by instant gratification.
13. “I Feel Good All Over” – Stephanie Mills
Stephanie Mills delivered a vocal performance full of warmth and sincerity. “I Feel Good All Over” captured the feeling of being fully loved and appreciated, making it a favorite for listeners of all ages.
12. “You Got It All” – The Jets
This tender ballad, delivered by the youngest member of the family band, was filled with heartfelt emotion. It resonated with anyone experiencing young love or longing, and it remains a cherished classic.
11. “Casanova” – Levert
Gerald Levert’s commanding voice and the song’s catchy hook made “Casanova” a standout. It was confident, upbeat, and irresistible — a track that continues to inspire dancing and sing-alongs.
10. “I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)” – Aretha Franklin & George Michael
This transatlantic duet brought together two vocal powerhouses in perfect harmony. It was a celebration of destiny and partnership, filled with energy, soul, and vocal chemistry.
9. “Lean On Me” – Club Nouveau
A fresh take on a classic, Club Nouveau’s version of “Lean On Me” brought new life to Bill Withers’ anthem. With a more contemporary beat, it maintained the spirit of unity and support that made the original so beloved.
8. “Don’t Disturb This Groove” – The System
This smooth, electronic R&B track created a sophisticated atmosphere with its sleek production and mellow vibe. It became a quiet favorite for those who appreciated modern soul with a futuristic touch.
7. “As We Lay” – Shirley Murdock
A song that told a complex story of love, regret, and consequence, “As We Lay” showcased Shirley Murdock’s powerful vocals and emotional depth. It’s a track that still invites reflection and conversation.
6. “Rock Steady” – The Whispers
An upbeat, danceable hit that blended funk with classic soul harmonies. “Rock Steady” was made for the dance floor, and its infectious groove still gets people moving today.
5. “Head To Toe” – Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam
This lively track brought energy and fun to the airwaves. Lisa Lisa’s vibrant vocals, paired with dynamic production, made this a defining hit of the year — especially among younger audiences.
4. “Always” – Atlantic Starr
A beautiful love ballad that became a favorite at weddings and romantic celebrations. “Always” was heartfelt and sincere, reminding listeners of the power and commitment of true love.
3. “Shake You Down” – Gregory Abbott
Smooth and sensual, “Shake You Down” was a quiet storm staple. Gregory Abbott’s deep voice and relaxed rhythm made it a favorite for romantic evenings and laid-back listening.
2. “Looking For A New Love” – Jody Watley
A confident and empowering anthem, this track announced Jody Watley’s arrival as a solo star. With its catchy beat and bold message, it became a go-to for those moving forward after heartbreak.
1. “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” – Whitney Houston
This joyful, energetic song remains one of Whitney Houston’s most iconic hits. With its irresistible beat and uplifting message, it captured the longing for love and the excitement of connection, becoming a worldwide sensation.
These 20 songs defined 1987 and contributed to a moment in music history that still resonates. They showcased the strength, beauty, and versatility of R&B and soul, giving us music that continues to inspire, uplift, and entertain. Whether you were there when these songs first hit the airwaves or are discovering them for the first time, their legacy is undeniable.
Music from this era is more than nostalgia — it’s a reminder of how powerful, creative, and meaningful Black music has always been. These songs remain essential listening for anyone who values artistry, emotion, and timeless melodies.
Let me know what you think about this list. How many of your favorites made this list? Drop it in the comments and tag a friend who enjoys topics like this!
And there you have it! A celebration of one unforgettable year in music — may these songs continue to play loud and proud.