Overall, 2024 was phenomenal for a whole lot of reasons, and chief among them was the sheer amount of quality R&B albums we got. Although most fans were paying attention to all of the wild stories going on in rap, others were chilling out while listening to artists like Leon Thomas, Lucky Daye, and Tems. The genre’s biggest superstars decided to drop projects, and we are certainly grateful for that. From sensational debuts to continuations of iconic album series, R&B fans were truly blessed.
Having said that, we have now reached the end of the year and it is officially time to count down the hottest R&B albums of 2024. We’re sure there is going to be quite a bit of debate about these. However, if one thing is certain, it is that there is something here for everyone. So without further ado, behold our latest list.
Variety has officially crowned the incredibly talented SZA as their “Hitmaker of the Year” for 2023. With a commitment to recognizing the year’s top artists and chart-topping hits, Variety‘s executive music editor, Jem Aswad, emphasized that SZA’s achievements in 2023 are not just a creative and commercial triumph but also a cultural milestone that extends well beyond the realm of music. “The goal of Hitmakers always has been to honor the top artists and songs of the year, and especially the people behind them,” she said in a statement. SZA’s remarkable journey to the “Hitmaker of the Year” title is attributed to the resounding success of her SOS album. Also, her captivating tour that had audiences wanting more around the globe. In addition to these remarkable achievements, her chart-topping hits throughout the year have solidified her status as a music industry powerhouse.
Variety’s acknowledgment of SZA as “Hitmaker of the Year” speaks volumes about her artistic contributions and her profound influence on the cultural landscape. Her impact transcends music, reaching far and wide, touching the hearts of countless fans and admirers. The prestigious honor awarded to SZA is not an isolated accolade. Variety’s recognition also extends to other distinguished artists who have left a mark on the music industry in 2023. Among those honored are Olivia Rodrigo, Metro Boomin, Maren Morris, and more. Each of these artists has made significant contributions to the world of music, enriching the global cultural landscape with their creativity and artistry.
NEW YORK, NY – MAY 07: SZA attends the Heavenly Bodies: Fashion & The Catholic Imagination Costume Institute Gala at The Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 7, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Dia Dipasupil/WireImage)
SZA’s journey to the of the music industry to earn “Hitmaker of the year” exemplifies the power of artistic expression. In addition, it resembles the profound impact that music can have on society. Her artistry not only resonates with fans but also shapes the cultural conversation, and it is an honor well-deserved. As Variety celebrates these extraordinary Hitmakers, it reinforces the idea that music is not just about sounds and melodies. Instead, it’s a transformative force that can touch the hearts and minds of millions.
SZA’s accomplishments serve as a testament to the enduring power of music to inspire and influence across boundaries and borders. Given that SZA has had a spectacular 2023, her album SOS has been breaking records and seeing unprecedented chart success. In fact, just last month, it was reported that SOS became the longest running No. 1 R&B album on the charts. She snagged the chart record from The Weeknd, who’s After Hours album spent 40 weeks atop the chart in 2021.
Rod Wave’s recent album release, Nostalgia, has been met with remarkable success in a remarkably short span. Just a few weeks after its launch, the album has already achieved major milestones, totaling an impressive equivalent of 137,000 unit sales in the United States. This accomplishment marks a significant milestone in Rod Wave’s career, making it his most substantial debut to date. According to reports from Billboard, Nostalgia has not only made an impactful entrance but is also holding its ground by maintaining its position (No. 1) at the top of the charts for a second consecutive week. This achievement is undoubtedly a cause for celebration, and Rod Wave has every reason to revel in his success.
It’s worth noting that Rod Wave himself expressed his deep gratitude for the current heights of his career. He recognizes the significance of his recent achievement, and rightfully so. Nostalgia earning the coveted No. 1 spot on the Billboard 200 chart is a testament to his talent and growing fanbase. This accomplishment is particularly notable because it marks the third time in Wave’s career that he has reached this impressive milestone.
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – NOVEMBER 11: Rapper Rod Wave performs onstage during “The Beautiful Mind Tour” with Rod Wave at Target Center on November 11, 2022 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.(Photo by Prince Williams/Wireimage)
His earlier works, Beautiful Mind (released in 2022) and SoulFly (released in 2021), were the other two albums that also secured the number one position on the Billboard 200 chart. These repeated successes demonstrate not only his consistency but also his ability to connect with audiences and deliver music that resonates with listeners. In a heartfelt video message last week, Rod Wave conveyed his genuine humility and gratitude, expressing profound appreciation for his current circumstances. He shared, “I don’t know, man – I just feel so blessed to be in this position. So thankful.”
In conclusion, Rod Wave’s Nostalgia album has catapulted him to new heights in his career. Achieving the No. 1 spot on the Billboard 200 chart for the third time is a testament to his musical prowess and the enduring appeal of his work. With a track record of delivering chart-topping albums, he is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in the music industry, and his future releases will likely continue to be eagerly anticipated by fans and music enthusiasts alike. Stay tuned to HNHH for more music news.
