Faith Evans

Although not necessarily the first lady of modern R&B (an honor typically bestowed to Mary J. Blige), Faith Evans has carved out a decade-long career as a consistent and occasionally stellar performer. Her latest album is stocked with highlights, including the winsome first single, “Again,” where she sings, “If I had to do it all again / I wouldn’t take away the rain.” Other songs such as “Jealous” and “Stop N Go” are sweet and disarming in their direct yet emotional proclamations of love, a sentiment quietly underscored by her team of producers. Filled with slow and midtempo tracks from start to finish, The First Lady is a charmer.