Decades: '90s Rap and R&B

As its new, diverse, and endlessly exciting sounds drew inspiration from across the musical spectrum, R&B came to define American mainstream music in the '90s. Here are the key tracks from R&B's most vital decade.

The 1990s yielded the most memorable slow jams of all time. This playlist is dedicated to the ballads and anthems that defined a decade of R&B.

Sassy, sexy and soulful, these are the essential anthems by the all-female R&B groups that dominated the '90s pop charts. Scrubs are, naturally, not welcome.

Starting in the early-mid '90, hip hop took on dramatic changes in sound as gangster rap and rich, soulful production became the dominant styles. These are the classic club anthems from that era.

Since her early teens, Brandy has been working hard, multi-tasking as a professional singer and actress. These are the best soulful r&b songs that she recommends for unwinding after a long day. Request songs at: http://on.fb.me/HYcoqc

A collection of music created by and/or featuring members of the Atlanta, Georgia based Hip-Hop/R&B/Soul musical collective, the Dungeon Family. Most notable members include Outkast, Goodie Mob, and Organized Noize Productions.

Nate Dogg was one of the best hook singers in the history of hip hop. This playlist highlights the best collaborations from his legendary career.

N.W.A., 2pac, Snoop Dogg, Jay-Z, G-Unit, Eminem: Dr. Dre's production resume speaks for itself. Listen to the greatest beats from hip hop's most influential producer.

One of the greatest hip hop groups of all time, the Wu-Tang Clan has proved timeless and astonishingly prolific. This mix takes you straight to the slums of Shaolin, covering the work of Wu-Tang's core members, outsiders, and everything in between.

Cited by countless rappers, journalists, and fellow producers as one of the greatest hip-hop producers of all time, DJ Premier has left an an indelible mark on the genre. Here are Primo's greatest beats.

Turn the bass way up for this collection of funky tracks by legendary hip-hop producer J Dilla.

An intimate experience with some of rap's most compelling introspective and philosophical songs.

Soul music re-emerged and took on many forms throughout the 90's and 00's, often referred to as Neo Soul or Soul Revival. Here’s an eclectic collection of songs from the men that captured that spirit.

Hip hop's most infamous disses, from the early days on the streets of The Bronx to today. From the ferocious to the hilarious, this is the sound of lyrical warfare.

When rappers decide to get political, they don't pull punches. Hitting back against police harassment, calling for political payback, and speaking unflinchingly about society and media as a whole, these rappers take aim with an almighty righteous attack.

Along with fellow heavy hitters DJ Premiere and RZA, Pete Rock helped to define the soulful, sample-based sound of '90s East Coast rap. Here is Pete Rock's oeuvre; from his work with CL Smooth to the hits he produced for Biggie, Common, and others.

New Jack Swing defined the urban music scene as the '80s became the '90s and R&B met hip-hop. Rediscover this era of sweet harmonies with a hint of swagger and unlimited style.

Classic bangers from and inspired by the late '80s/early '90s golden age of gangsta rap. Both coasts represent.

Hip-hop producers DJ Premier, Pete Rock, Q-Tip and Large Professor helped make Nas's Illmatic a '90s hip-hop classic. Explore the best of the quartet's other work from the same era.

Let these laid back, southern-fried hip-hop grooves soundtrack your next good-time BBQ gathering. Slow your roll.

Soul music re-emerged and took on many forms throughout the 90's and 00's, often referred to as "Neo Soul" or "Soul Revival." Listen to the greatest songs from the women that captured that spirit.