‘Tis the season again: to make a list, check it twice (and a couple more times for good measure) and then reveal who are the hottest artists of the year. In this case, we’re talking Billboard’s staff picks of the R&B artists who left the most indelible footprints in 2025.

Before moving forward, let’s underscore that these picks were not decided strictly by chart data. As we previously mentioned on our initial list in February, while chart success was a factor in the staff discussion, other criteria was also taken into account: vocal performance, musical and lyrical resonance, cultural buzz, touring success and business endeavors and partnerships.

There’s no doubt that some R&B fans will disagree with these staff picks and decry that other artists are more deserving of a slot on the list.

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