New smooth soul releases: October 26 – November 1, 2026

This week's smooth soul releases highlight a blend of genre exploration and nostalgic resonance, from Boyz II Men's shift into country under their new Warner Records Nashville deal to Michael Kiwanuka's introspective work on Fudge. Artists like Jack Harlow and Leon Bridges continue to redefine the sound with collaborations and reflective tracks, while new projects such as vbnd’s Daughter of the Sun and Alicia Keys & Swizz Beatz’s Lovers Rose add fresh textures to the genre. A few releases draw from past milestones, referencing chart-topping duets from the 1970s and 1980s that shaped soul and R&B. The week underscores both innovation and reverence in contemporary smooth soul.

1. 01

   Boyz II Men

   Boyz II Men to release country album following Warner Records Nashville deal

   Oct 27 · 6 outlets

2. 02

   Michael Kiwanuka

   Michael Kiwanuka chases after beauty in its truest, roughest form on Fudge

   Oct 27 · 2 outlets

3. 03

   Jack Harlow, Babyface

   Jack Harlow Previews New Music Alongside Babyface After R&B Turn

   Nov 1 · 1 outlet

4. 04

   Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers, Bee Gees, Marvin Gaye

   On This Day in 1983, Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton Topped the Charts With a Bee Gees-Penned Hit Originally Intended for Marvin Gaye

   Oct 29 · 1 outlet

5. 05

   vbnd, Katie Tupper, Justice Der

   vbnd – Daughter of the Sun (ft. Katie Tupper, Justice Der)

   Oct 29 · 1 outlet

6. 06

   Leon Bridges

   Leon Bridges : « Happiness Anytime », le bonheur en mouvement

   Oct 29 · 1 outlet

7. 07

   Michael Kiwanuka

   Michael Kiwanuka Explores the Playful Spirit That Inspired His Album ‘Fudge’ in New Short Film

   Oct 28 · 1 outlet

8. 08

   Alicia Keys, Swizz Beatz

   Alicia Keys & Swizz Beatz Turn To Lowrider Soul For “Lovers Rose”

   Oct 27 · 1 outlet

9. 09

   Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye

   On This Day in 1973: Diana Ross and Marvin Gaye teamed up for a winner

   Oct 27 · 1 outlet

Every week All smooth soul news Every genre’s releases