The List of R. Kelly Albums in Order of Release

R. Kelly Album photo

R. Kelly Albums in Order: Explore the Musical Journey of a Legend.

Robert Sylvester Kelly, born on January 8, 1967, is a multifaceted American artist whose career has been marked by both musical acclaim and a deeply troubling criminal history. Widely known as an influential singer, songwriter, and record producer, he has played a pivotal role in reshaping the landscape of R&B and hip-hop music. Over the years, Kelly earned a slew of titles, from “the King of R&B” to “the King of Pop-Soul” and even the “Pied Piper of R&B.”

Yet, alongside his musical achievements lies a harrowing narrative of criminal convictions. In 2022, Kelly was found guilty of sex trafficking, child pornography, and sexual exploitation of a minor, shedding a stark light on the disturbing allegations that have shadowed his career. With a discography that boasts 18 studio albums and chart-topping hits like “I Believe I Can Fly” and “Ignition (Remix),” Kelly’s musical legacy is undeniable.

Still, it is overshadowed by his extensive legal battles and the revelations surrounding his predatory behavior, making his life and career a complex and deeply controversial chapter in the annals of music history. So, if you are a die heart fan of R. Kelly Albums then check out here we have list of R. Kelly albums in order of release so far.

 

All R. Kelly Albums Available on:  Apple Music 

 

How many albums does R. Kelly have?

The discography of American R&B singer-songwriter R. Kelly has released 18 studio albums, five compilation albums, one soundtrack album, six video albums, one mixtape, two extended play, and 129 singles.

 

All R. Kelly Albums in Order: Check Out The List of  R. Kelly Albums in Order of Release Here!

Here is the list of R. Kelly  Album in Order of Release Date:

Studio albums:

  1. Born into the 90’s — January 14, 1992
  2. 12 Play — November 9, 1993
  3. R. Kelly — November 14, 1995
  4. R. — November 10, 1998
  5. TP-2.com — November 7, 2000
  6. Chocolate Factory — February 18, 2003
  7. Happy People/U Saved Me — August 24, 2004
  8. TP.3 Reloaded — July 5, 2005
  9. Double Up — May 29, 2007
  10. Untitled — December 1, 2009
  11. Love Letter — December 14, 2010
  12. Write Me Back — June 26, 2012
  13. Black Panties — December 10, 2013
  14. The Buffet — December 11, 2015
  15. 12 Nights of Christmas — October 21, 2016

Collaborative albums:

  1. The Best of Both Worlds (with Jay-Z) — March 19, 2002
  2. Unfinished Business (with Jay-Z) — October 26, 2004

All R. Kelly Albums List in Order


Studio albums


1. Born into the 90’s (1992)

r. kelly Born into the 90's albums image

Track

  1. She’s Loving Me
  2. She’s Got That Vibe
  3. Definition of a Hotti
  4. I Know What You Need
  5. Keep It Street
  6. Born into the 90’s
  7. Slow Dance (Hey Mr. DJ)
  8. Dedicated
  9. Honey Love
  10. Hangin’ Out
  11. Hey Love (Can I Have a Word)

Born into the 90’s is a pivotal collaboration album by R. Kelly and his group, Public Announcement, released in January 1992. The record marked a significant moment in R&B history, boasting a string of hit singles, including “She’s Got That Vibe,” which reached an impressive #3 on the UK charts, along with “Dedicated.” Notably, it featured Kelly’s first two #1 R&B hits, “Honey Love” and “Slow Dance (Hey Mr. DJ),” with the former dominating the Billboard R&B Singles chart for 2 weeks. By June 1992, the album achieved platinum status and garnered an American Music Award nomination for Favorite Soul/R&B Single (“Honey Love”). It stands as Kelly’s sole album with Public Announcement, setting the stage for his solo career.


2. 12 Play (1993)

R. Kelly Album 12 Play image

Track

  1. Your Body’s Callin
  2. Bump n’ Grind
  3. Homie Lover Friend
  4. It Seems Like You’re Ready
  5. Freak Dat Body
  6. I Like the Crotch on You
  7. Summer Bunnies
  8. For You
  9. Back to the Hood of Things
  10. Sadie
  11. Sex Me (Part 1) / Sex Me (Part 2)
  12. 12 Play

“12 Play,” R. Kelly’s debut solo studio album, marked a pivotal moment in his career when it was released on November 9, 1993, by Jive Records. Prior to this, Kelly had gained recognition with R&B group Public Announcement, releasing “Born into the 90’s” in 1992. “12 Play” soared to the top of the R&B albums chart for nine consecutive weeks and secured the second spot on the US Billboard 200 chart. The album spawned four singles, notably “Bump n’ Grind” (US, number 1) and “Your Body’s Callin'” (US, number 13), featuring themes of sensuality. It initiated the “12 Play” trilogy, followed by “TP-2.com” (2000) and “TP-3: Reloaded” (2005). Although initially met with mixed reviews, the album has garnered more favorable retrospective acclaim.


3. R. Kelly (1995)

R. Kelly Album R. Kelly image

Track

  1. The Sermon
  2. Hump Bounce
  3. Not Gonna Hold On
  4. You Remind Me of Something
  5. Step in My Room
  6. Baby, Baby, Baby, Baby, Baby…
  7. (You to Be) Be Happy
  8. Down Low (Nobody Has to Know)
  9. I Can’t Sleep Baby (If I)
  10. Thank God It’s Friday
  11. Love Is On the Way
  12. Heaven If You Hear Me
  13. Religious Love
  14. Tempo Slow
  15. As I Look into My Life
  16. Trade in My Life

R. Kelly, the eponymous second studio album from American R&B singer-songwriter R. Kelly, made its debut on November 14, 1995, under Jive Records. A distinctive feature of this album is that R. Kelly took full control of the production. Notably, it delivered three chart-topping R&B singles: ‘You Remind Me of Something,’ ‘Down Low (Nobody Has to Know),’ and ‘I Can’t Sleep Baby (If I).’ This release marked a significant moment in R. Kelly’s career, showcasing his prowess as both a vocalist and a producer, solidifying his reputation as a prominent figure in the world of R&B.


4. R. (1998)

R. Kelly Album R. image

Track

  1. Home Alone
  2. Spendin’ Money
  3. If I’m With You
  4. Half on a Baby
  5. When a Woman’s Fed Up
  6. Get Up on a Room
  7. One Man
  8. We Ride
  9. The Opera
  10. The Interview
  11. Only the Loot Can Make Me Happy
  12. Don’t Put Me Out
  13. Suicide
  14. Etcetera
  15. If I Could Turn Back the Hands of Time
  16. What I Feel/Issues
  17. I Believe I Can Fly
  18. The Chase
  19. V.I.P.
  20. Did You Ever Think
  21. Dollar Bill
  22. Reality
  23. 2nd Kelly
  24. Ghetto Queen
  25. Down Low Double Life
  26. Looking For Love
  27. Dancing with a Rich Man
  28. I’m Your Angel
  29. Money Makes the World Go Round
  30. I Believe I Can Fly (US release)/Gotham City (international release)
  31. Did You Ever Think (Remix) (re-release)
  32. Gotham City

R. is the third solo album by American singer R. Kelly, a groundbreaking release that defied his previous pattern of sole production. This double album, unveiled on November 10, 1998, via Jive Records, showcased Kelly’s evolution. The album cover, featuring a silhouette of Kelly against a striking red and black backdrop, pays homage to his 1993 debut, ’12 Play.’

Upon its debut, R. swiftly ascended to the top of the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and secured the second position on the US Billboard 200. It shattered records, selling over 612,000 copies within its inaugural week. The album yielded chart-toppers, including ‘I’m Your Angel’ on the Billboard Hot 100 and ‘I Believe I Can Fly’ on the Top R&B charts – the latter initially featured on the Space Jam soundtrack. Remarkably, ‘R.’ remains Kelly’s highest-selling album, amassing over eight million copies in the United States and a staggering 12.4 million copies worldwide.


5. TP-2.com (2000)

R. Kelly Album TP-2.com image

Track

  1. TP-2
  2. Strip for You
  3. R&B Thug
  4. The Greatest Sex
  5. I Don’t Mean It
  6. Just Like That
  7. Like A Real Freak
  8. Fiesta
  9. Don’t You Say No
  10. The Real R. Kelly
  11. One Me
  12. I Wish
  13. A Woman’s Threat
  14. I Decided
  15. I Mean (I Don’t Mean It)
  16. I Wish – Remix
  17. All I Really Want
  18. Feelin’ On Yo Booty
  19. The Storm Is Over Now

TP-2.com (an abbreviation of Twelve Play-2) stands as the fourth solo masterpiece from renowned American R&B artist R. Kelly, making its debut on November 7, 2000, courtesy of Jive Records. This iconic album, following the success of its predecessor ’12 Play,’ showcases Kelly’s lyrical prowess and distinctive vocal style. It skillfully blends sensuality and emotion, featuring hits like ‘I Wish’ and ‘Fiesta.’ TP-2.com solidified R. Kelly’s status as a musical innovator in the early 2000s, cementing his reputation as a dominant force in contemporary R&B and marking another milestone in his illustrious career.


6. Chocolate Factory (2003)

R. Kelly Album Chocolate Factory image

Track

  1. Chocolate Factory
  2. Step in the Name of Love
  3. Heart of a Woman
  4. I’ll Never Leave
  5. Been Around the World
  6. You Made Me Love You
  7. Forever
  8. Dream Girl
  9. Ignition
  10. Ignition (Remix)
  11. Forever More
  12. You Knock Me Out
  13. Step in the Name of Love (Remix)
  14. Imagine That
  15. Showdown
  16. Snake
  17. Who’s That

Chocolate Factory,” R. Kelly’s fifth studio album, dropped on February 18, 2003, under Jive Records. It emerged from recording sessions mainly held at Rockland Studios and Chicago Recording Company in Chicago, Illinois. R. Kelly assumed the roles of writer, arranger, and producer for most of the album. Notably, it was initially named “Loveland” during a turbulent period in Kelly’s career due to a sex scandal.

The album made an explosive debut by clinching the top spot on the US Billboard 200, with over 532,000 units sold in its first week. It achieved international success, boasting hit singles like “Snake,” “Step in the Name of Love,” and the global sensation, “Ignition (Remix).” “Chocolate Factory” garnered critical acclaim, receiving praise from publications like The New York Times and USA Today. Its global sales exceeded 3 million copies, earning certifications in both the United States and the United Kingdom.


7. Happy People/U Saved Me (2004)

R. Kelly Album Happy People U Saved Me image

Track

  Happy People

  1. Weatherman
  2. Red Carpet (Pause, Flash)
  3. Love Signals
  4. Love Street
  5. Ladies’ Night (Treat Her Like Heaven)
  6. If
  7. The Greatest Show On Earth
  8. It’s Your Birthday
  9. Steppin’ Into Heaven
  10. If I Could Make the World Dance
  11. Happy People

  U Saved Me

  1. 3-Way Phone Call
  2. U Saved Me
  3. Prayer Changes
  4. How Did You Manage
  5. I Surrender
  6. When I Think About You
  7. Diary of Me
  8. Spirit
  9. Leap of Faith
  10. Peace

Released in 2004, ‘Happy People/U Saved Me’ stands as R. Kelly’s sixth studio album, marked by its unique blend of feel-good danceable soul records in ‘Happy People’ and gospel anthems in ‘U Saved Me.’ This double album reached an impressive No. 2 on the pop albums chart and achieved triple Platinum certification. It delivered chart-topping success with the hit single ‘Happy People’ (reaching No. 19 in the US and No. 6 in the UK) and the notable ‘U Saved Me’ (peaking at No. 52 in the US and No. 6 in the UK). Notably, ‘Red Carpet (Pause, Flash)’ sampled the previous year’s hit ‘Step in the Name of Love’ from Kelly’s earlier album.


8. TP.3 Reloaded (2005)

R. Kelly Album TP.3 Reloaded image

Track

  1. Playa’s Only
  2. Happy Summertime
  3. In the Kitchen
  4. Slow Wind
  5. Put My T-Shirt On
  6. Remote Control
  7. Kickin’ It with Your Girlfriend
  8. Reggae Bump Bump
  9. Touchin
  10. Girls Go Crazy
  11. Hit It Till the Mornin
  12. Sex Weed
  13. (Sex) Love Is What We Makin
  14. Burn It Up
  15. Trapped in the Closet Chapter 1
  16. Trapped in the Closet Chapter 2
  17. Trapped in the Closet Chapter 3
  18. Trapped in the Closet Chapter 4
  19. Trapped in the Closet Chapter 5

TP.3 Reloaded, the seventh studio album by renowned American R&B singer R. Kelly, marks the third installment in his iconic 12 Play series. This record is notably recognized for featuring the initial five chapters of the compelling and innovative narrative song, ‘Trapped in the Closet.’ The album achieved significant commercial success, securing R. Kelly his fifth number one position on the Billboard 200 album chart. In the United States alone, TP.3 Reloaded managed to sell an impressive 1.52 million copies, solidifying its status as a pivotal milestone in R. Kelly’s illustrious career.


9. Double Up (2007)

R. Kelly Album Double Up image

Track

  1. The Champ
  2. Double Up
  3. Tryin to Get a Number
  4. Get Dirty
  5. Leave Your Name
  6. Freaky in the Club
  7. The Zoo
  8. I’m a Flirt (Remix)
  9. Same Girl
  10. Real Talk
  11. Hook It Up
  12. Rock Star
  13. Best Friend
  14. Rollin’
  15. Sweet Tooth
  16. Havin a Baby
  17. Sex Planet
  18. Rise Up

“Double Up,” R. Kelly’s eighth studio album, graced the music scene on May 29, 2007, courtesy of Jive Records, distributed by the Zomba Label Group. This musical masterpiece showcases R. Kelly’s multifaceted talents as he not only lent his vocals but also took the reins as a producer. Collaborations with artists like Swizz Beatz, The Runners, Snoop Dogg, Khao, Nelly, Chamillionaire, and Polow da Don enriched the album’s diversity.

One of its standout tracks, a remix of “I’m a Flirt,” featuring T.I. and T-Pain, skyrocketed on Billboard’s Top 40 charts, securing the number one spot on the US Top Hot Rap Tracks chart. “Double Up” marked a pinnacle in R. Kelly’s career, reigning atop the Billboard 200 as his final studio album to achieve this remarkable feat.


10. Untitled (2009)

R. Kelly Album Untitled image

Track

  1. Crazy Night
  2. Exit
  3. Echo
  4. Bangin’ the Headboard
  5. Go Low
  6. Whole Lotta Kisses
  7. Like I Do
  8. Number One
  9. I Love the DJ
  10. Supaman High
  11. Be My #2
  12. Text Me
  13. Religious
  14. Elsewhere
  15. Pregnant

Released on December 1, 2009, ‘Untitled’ stands as the ninth studio album by esteemed American R&B artist R. Kelly. This musical endeavor, entirely produced by R. Kelly alongside a cadre of emerging producers, garnered notable attention upon its arrival. Debuting at an impressive number 4 on the US Billboard 200 chart and simultaneously ascending to the summit of the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, ‘Untitled’ showcased R. Kelly’s enduring appeal within the industry. While it received mixed reviews from contemporary music critics, the album demonstrated its commercial prowess by selling over 500,000 copies, cementing its place in the artist’s illustrious discography.


11. Love Letter (2010)

R. Kelly Album Love Letter imag

Track

  1. Love Letter (Prelude Intro)
  2. Love Letter
  3. Number One Hit
  4. Not Feelin’ the Love
  5. Lost in Your Love
  6. Just Can’t Get Enough
  7. Taxi Cab
  8. Radio Message
  9. When a Woman Loves
  10. Love Is
  11. Just Like That
  12. Music Must Be a Lady
  13. A Love Letter Christmas
  14. How Do I Tell Her?
  15. You Are Not Alone

Released on December 14, 2010, ‘Love Letter’ marks the tenth studio album by renowned American R&B artist R. Kelly. A significant departure from his previous work, this album shifts away from contemporary sounds and explicit themes towards classic soul influences and heartfelt lyrics centered around love and forgiveness. With all songs written and produced by Kelly himself, the album debuted impressively at number 6 on the US Billboard 200 chart, selling 154,000 copies in its first week. It spawned two successful singles on the US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. Critics praised its classical style and Kelly’s singing and songwriting prowess. By June 2022, ‘Love Letter’ had sold over one million copies in the US, earning it platinum certification from the RIAA.


12. Write Me Back (2012)

R. Kelly Album Write Me Back image

Track

  1. Love Is
  2. Feelin’ Single
  3. Lady Sunday
  4. When a Man Lies
  5. Clipped Wings
  6. Believe That It’s So
  7. Fool for You
  8. All Rounds on Me
  9. Believe in Me
  10. Green Light
  11. Party Jumpin’
  12. Share My Love

“Write Me Back” is R. Kelly’s eleventh studio album, released on June 25, 2012, under RCA Records. This follow-up to his 2010 album, “Love Letter,” was predominantly written and produced by Kelly himself. The recording process took place at various studios in Chicago and Philadelphia, with a musical style that expands upon traditional R&B, incorporating influences from Philadelphia soul and Chicago stepping. The album explores themes of love, redemption, and the complexities of relationships.

Debuting at number five on the Billboard 200, it sold 68,000 copies in its first week and remained on the charts for 16 weeks, with over 141,000 copies sold in the US. Notably, it received positive reviews for its musical arrangements and Kelly’s vocal prowess. Three singles, including “Share My Love” and “Feelin’ Single,” were released to promote the album.


13. Black Panties (2013)

 

Track

  1. Legs Shakin’
  2. Cookie
  3. Throw This Money on You
  4. Prelude
  5. Marry the Pussy
  6. You Deserve Better
  7. Genius
  8. All the Way
  9. My Story
  10. Right Back
  11. Spend That
  12. Crazy Sex
  13. Shut Up

“Black Panties” stands as the twelfth studio album by esteemed American R&B vocalist R. Kelly, seeing its debut in the United States on December 6, 2013, courtesy of RCA Records. The album boasts an impressive lineup of guest artists, including Ludacris, 2 Chainz, Young Jeezy, Migos, Kelly Rowland, Juicy J, and Future. Known for its seductive and sultry R&B vibes, the album further solidified R. Kelly’s reputation as a pioneer in the genre. With its release, the artist continued to craft his signature blend of sensuality and musicality, delivering another memorable addition to his illustrious discography.


14. The Buffet (2015)

R. Kelly Album The Buffet image

Track

  1. The Poem
  2. Poetic Sex
  3. Anything Goes
  4. Let’s Make Some Noise
  5. Marching Band
  6. Switch Up
  7. Wanna Be There
  8. All My Fault
  9. Wake Up Everybody
  10. Get Out of Here With Me
  11. Backyard Party
  12. Sextime
  13. Let’s Be Real Now

The Buffet, R. Kelly’s thirteenth studio album, dropped on December 11, 2015, under RCA Records. This musical extravaganza showcases an array of talent, with notable guest appearances by artists like Lil Wayne, Jhene Aiko, Ty Dolla Sign, Jeremih, Juicy J, Wizkid, and Tinashe. An interesting highlight of the album is the debut of Kelly’s daughter, Joann Kelly, who graces the stage under the name Ariirayé. This release underscores R. Kelly’s versatility and ability to evolve, offering a rich mix of R&B and contemporary influences in a musical feast for his fans.


15. 12 Nights of Christmas (2016)

R. Kelly Album 12 Nights of Christmas image

Track

  1. My Wish for Christmas
  2. Snowman
  3. Home for Christmas
  4. Mrs. Santa Claus
  5. I’m Sending You My Love for Christmas
  6. Letters
  7. Once Upon a Time
  8. Greatest Gift
  9. It’s Christmas Day
  10. Christmas Lovin
  11. Flyin’ on My Sleigh
  12. 12 Nights of Christmas

12 Nights of Christmas” stands as the fourteenth and concluding studio album in R&B sensation R. Kelly’s discography, unique in its festive theme as his sole Christmas offering. This holiday-themed musical endeavor debuted on October 21, 2016, marking Kelly’s farewell release under RCA Records. The artist faced significant controversy as RCA Records severed ties with him in January 2019 due to mounting sexual assault allegations. While the album showcases Kelly’s musical versatility and his ability to infuse the holiday spirit into his work, its release coincided with a tumultuous period in the artist’s career, marking a significant chapter in his musical journey.


Collaborative albums


1. The Best of Both Worlds (with Jay-Z) (2002)

r. kelly The Best of Both Worlds (with Jay-Z) albums image

Track

  1. The Best of Both Worlds
  2. Take You Home with Me
  3. Break Up to Make Up
  4. It Ain’t Personal
  5. The Streets
  6. Green Light
  7. Naked (R. Kelly solo)
  8. Shake Ya Body
  9. Somebody’s Girl
  10. Get This Money
  11. Shorty
  12. Honey
  13. Pussy

The Best of Both Worlds” marked a groundbreaking collaboration between rap icon Jay-Z and R&B legend R. Kelly, released on March 19, 2002, under labels including Roc-A-Fella, The Island Def Jam Music Group, Rockland Records, and Jive Records. This musical endeavor was primarily produced by R. Kelly and Poke and Tone, with contributions from Megahertz and Charlemagne. Notably, the album featured guest appearances by Beanie Siegel, Lil’ Kim, and Devin the Dude.

Despite mixed critical reception, the album proved commercially successful, debuting at number two on the US Billboard 200 chart, with an impressive first-week sale of 223,000 copies. The album spawned three singles, including “Honey,” “Get This Money,” and “Take You Home with Me a.k.a. Body,” though their chart performance varied.


2. Unfinished Business (with Jay-Z) (2004)

r. kelly Unfinished Business (with Jay-Z) albums image

Track

  1. The Return
  2. Big Chips
  3. We Got ‘Em Goin
  4. She’s Coming Home with Me
  5. Feelin’ You in Stereo
  6. Stop
  7. Mo’ Money
  8. Pretty Girls
  9. Break Up (That’s All We Do)
  10. Don’t Let Me Die
  11. The Return (Remix)

“Unfinished Business” marks the final collaboration between iconic American rapper Jay-Z and renowned singer R. Kelly. Released globally on October 26, 2004, the album was distributed by Jive Records and Island Def Jam Music Group, except in Canada and the US, where Island Def Jam Music Group, Def Jam Recordings, and Roc-A-Fella Records took over. Comprising unreleased tracks from their 2002 project, “The Best of Both Worlds,” with minor additions, the album also led to a tumultuous “Best of Both Worlds” concert tour.

This tour witnessed tension, allegations, and a headline-grabbing incident where R. Kelly was pepper-sprayed and subsequently banned from the tour. Despite criticism for repetitive lyrics, the album achieved commercial success, debuting at number one on the US Billboard 200 chart and earning platinum certification from the RIAA in December 2004. It featured singles “Big Chips” and “Don’t Let Me Die,” with the former receiving a physical release.


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