10 Best R&B Album Sequels That Worked
Not all sequels get it right, but these ten R&B albums did.
R&B holds a unique position, often acting as the emotional compass for generations. Yet, the concept of a sequel album in this genre is a rarity, almost an anomaly. While the film industry churns out sequels with clockwork regularity, the R&B universe seems to resist this trend, opting instead for a continuous metamorphosis that defies the constraints of a pre-established narrative.
Why this aversion to sequels in R&B? One reason could be the genre’s historical roots in the expression of raw, unfiltered emotion and lived experience. A sequel implies a continuation, and for many artists, the notion of extending a previous work may feel like a dilution of its authenticity. Additionally, the genre has long been a space for social commentary, addressing issues from racial injustice to love and loss. In this context, a sequel might risk appearing as a rehash rather than a fresh, timely critique.
Then there’s the audience’s role. In a culture that often criticizes film sequels for their lack of originality, the skepticism is even more pronounced when it comes to music. The auditory experience is deeply personal, and a sequel album that fails to meet expectations can feel like a betrayal, leading to a tarnished legacy. Yet, despite these challenges, some R&B sequel albums have not only defied the odds but have also elevated the genre, proving that a well-crafted follow-up can indeed be a revelation rather than a mere repetition.
Here are ten of them that got it right.
Part 3 — KC and the Sunshine Band
KC and the Sunshine Band’s Part 3 brings back their signature upbeat disco sound with irresistible funky rhythms, bright horns, and funky guitar licks that beg listeners to get on the dancefloor. The album showcases the group’s masterful ability to craft feel-good party anthems filled with infectious melodies and sunshine-filled optimism that perfectly encapsulate the carefree disco era. Though it follows the successful blueprint of their prior works, Part 3 demonstrates that the band still has the Midas touch when it comes to creating vibrant and joyful music that spreads joy. With non-stop danceable grooves, KC and the Sunshine Band prove their funky musical machine is still in full force on this successful sequel.
Rose Royce II: In Full Bloom — Rose Royce
Building upon their soulful debut, Rose Royce blossoms on their sophomore effort In Full Bloom, branching out into a vibrant set highlighting their emotional range and tight musicianship through silky harmonies and smooth R&B grooves. The album presents a garden of sensual, quiet storm jams along with upbeat, funky rhythms, showcasing Rose Royce’s dexterity across various grooves. In Full Bloom demonstrates the group coming into their own, finding their harmonic sweet spot as their lush vocals pair perfectly with funky wah-wah guitar licks and disco-inspired production.
The Gap Band II — The Gap Band
The Gap Band comes back strong on their self-titled sophomore effort, doubling down on their signature fusion of funk, soul, and rock with an even tighter and more assured sound. The album showcases their dexterity across propulsive, funky beats, catchy choruses, and passionate vocals. The band builds upon their debut album to make a bold statement, proving they have carved out their unique sound and identity. With irresistible grooves, The Gap Band II became a blueprint for their distinct and addictive musical style.
Beautifully Human: Words and Sounds, Vol. 2 — Jill Scott
On Beautifully Human: Words and Sounds, Vol. 2, Jill Scott spotlights her commanding spoken word finesse over laidback hip hop and neo-soul soundscapes, diving deep into the human condition as she brings sensitivity and insight to relationships and societal issues. Scott’s poetic vocals mesh seamlessly with the mellow production as she meditates on the complexity of human emotions and connections through compelling storytelling and sharp observations. It’s a revealing portrait of Scott’s artistic range, showcasing her wisdom and empathy.
E=MC² — Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey reaches exhilarating new heights on E=MC², a festive collection of uptempo empowerment pop-R&B anthems and heartfelt ballads to piggyback her comeback album, The Emancipation of Mimi. Carey’s unmatched vocal range is on full display as she explores themes of independence, equality, and self-reliance with an assured and uplifting energy, proving she remains in a league of her own. Propelled by Carey’s acrobatic vocals, E=MC² shines with blissful jams and anthemic tracks that highlight her masterful control and range.
New Amerykah, Pt. 2: Return of the Ankh — Erykah Badu
With New Amerykah, Pt. 2: Return of the Ankh, Erykah Badu completes her musical cycle, guiding the listener on a cosmic journey through her mind-bending and soulful brand of experimental R&B and hip-hop built upon part one. Channeling Afrofuturism, Badu conjures an innovative and otherworldly sonic palette to impart her wisdom concerning spirituality, consciousness, and finding one’s higher self. It’s a fully realized artistic statement only Badu could deliver. She subverts expectations with sublime tracks that highlight her versatility.
My Life II… The Journey Continues (Act 1) — Mary J. Blige
On My Life II… The Journey Continues (Act 1), Mary J. Blige picks up where she left off, chronicling her ongoing emotional voyage through stirring hip-hop soul and contemporary R&B arrangements. Blige intimately confronts her demons and celebrates her triumphs with raw passion and honesty, underpinned by her powerful and versatile vocal performance. It’s a cathartic and resonating statement from a veteran artist. Cuts exemplify Blige’s gift for candid songwriting and memorable melodies.
J.E. Heartbreak II — Jagged Edge
Jagged Edge recaptures R&B magic on J.E. Heartbreak II, revisiting early themes of love, heartbreak, and maturity, blending nostalgia and new perspectives through emotional songwriting and contemporary production flourishes. The group’s trademark tight vocal interplay still shines as they come full circle, sounding rejuvenated while remaining true to their roots. With vulnerable tracks, Jagged Edge strikes a rewarding balance between old and new.
blackSUMMERS’night — Maxwell
Maxwell completes his musical trilogy (sort of) with blackSUMMERS’night, enveloping an evening filled with sensual funk and velvety slow jams. Lush production and Maxwell’s silky falsetto explore carnal desire and emotional vulnerability through subtle songwriting. It’s a sonic world all his own and an enticing escape. Sensuous numbers encapsulate Maxwell’s signature bedroom swagger on this alluring album.
JAGUAR II — Victoria Monét
With her 2020 EP JAGUAR intended as the first part of a trilogy serving as her debut album, Victoria Monét took a new direction three years later. She released JAGUAR II as a concluding sequel LP she now considers JAGUAR’s “older sister.” Undoubtedly a more rounded display of Monét’s writing, it also highlights her high-wattage chemistry with chief production partner D’Mile. Above all, Monét comes across as an everywoman at heart, no matter how personal or fantastical she gets. Her authoritative yet honeyed voice underscores this. JAGUAR II creatively nudges contemporary R&B forward, blending inspirations spanning continents and generations.