R&B Legend Omarion & Undesirable Truth Reveal Why Women’s Musical Taste Shifted from Love to Lust

Over the past few decades, R&B has undergone a dramatic transformation. Once celebrated for its heartfelt lyrics, deep emotions, and soulful declarations of love, the genre now leans heavily toward themes of lust, casual encounters, and fleeting relationships.

But why has this shift occurred? R&B legend Omarion, alongside Undesirable Truth, recently discussed the real reasons behind this cultural and musical transformation, shedding light on how societal changes, evolving gender dynamics, and industry influence have altered women’s musical preferences.

The Golden Era of R&B – Love, Romance, and Passion

R&B’s golden era—spanning the late ‘80s, ‘90s, and early 2000s—was filled with songs about love, commitment, and emotional depth. Artists like Boyz II Men, Mariah Carey, Luther Vandross, and even Omarion himself brought soulful ballads that spoke of devotion, heartbreak, and long-term relationships. These songs resonated deeply with women who saw love as the ultimate goal in life and relationships.

Back then, lyrics were about waiting for the right moment, cherishing a partner, and promising forever. From Jodeci’s Forever My Lady to Alicia Keys’ If I Ain’t Got You, these songs uplifted the idea of love as something worth fighting for. Even when heartbreak songs were in play, they focused on the pain of losing something meaningful rather than treating relationships as disposable.

However, over time, R&B’s themes began to shift, moving away from love and romance toward more provocative and sexually explicit content. Today, the genre is dominated by messages of instant gratification, detachment, and independence over intimacy. So, what changed?

Omarion & Undesirable Truth Explain the Shift

According to Omarion, one of the biggest reasons for the shift in women’s musical taste is the overall cultural change in how relationships are viewed. He notes that society has moved away from traditional values of love and partnership toward a more independent, self-focused mindset.

“In the past, love was the goal. Now, it’s all about self-love, independence, and getting yours before you get got,” Omarion explained. “That’s not necessarily a bad thing, but it has changed the way we view relationships and, in turn, the music we listen to.”

Undesirable Truth added that modern feminism and empowerment movements have played a role in reshaping how women approach love and relationships. In previous generations, women sought music that reflected their desire for long-term commitment and emotional security. Today, however, many women prioritize self-sufficiency, financial stability, and personal success over traditional romance, which has influenced their music preferences.

“We went from Let’s Get Married by Jagged Edge to WAP by Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion,” Undesirable Truth pointed out. “That’s not a coincidence. It reflects the new wave of thinking where women are no longer waiting for love to define them.”

The Influence of Social Media & Dating Culture

Another factor Omarion highlighted is the rise of social media and dating apps, which have drastically altered the dating landscape. In the past, people met through mutual friends, family gatherings, or social outings. Courtship took time, and relationships were built on emotional connections.

Today, dating is instant and transactional. Apps like Tinder, Hinge, and Instagram DMs have created an environment where people are constantly seeking the next best thing, often reducing potential partners to nothing more than a quick swipe left or right. This has led to a culture where music reflecting deep emotional bonds takes a backseat to songs about short-lived flings, partying, and fleeting physical connections.

“Social media changed everything,” Omarion stated. “When you have access to thousands of potential partners at your fingertips, the idea of settling down with one person doesn’t seem as appealing. And music reflects that shift.”

Record Labels and Industry Trends

Omarion and Undesirable Truth also pointed out that record labels play a huge role in dictating what type of R&B gets mainstream attention. As music became more commercialized, labels started prioritizing songs that generate quick streams, club plays, and viral TikTok moments over slow-burning, deeply emotional tracks.

“We all know the industry is about money,” Omarion said. “Labels saw what was selling and pushed artists in that direction. It’s no coincidence that love ballads don’t get the same marketing budgets as club bangers.”

The demand for “fast food” music—songs that deliver instant gratification rather than deep emotional fulfillment—has taken over the industry. Love songs require patience, vulnerability, and storytelling. Songs about lust and casual encounters? They’re catchy, easy to digest, and create immediate engagement.

Is R&B Doomed or Just Evolving?

While some argue that R&B has lost its way, Omarion believes it’s simply evolving to reflect the times. He acknowledges that while themes have changed, the genre still holds space for love songs, even if they’re less mainstream. Artists like H.E.R., Jazmine Sullivan, and Giveon continue to produce emotionally rich music, but they often don’t receive the same mainstream push as artists who cater to the current culture of instant gratification.

“Love is never going out of style,” Omarion said. “But right now, we’re in a phase where people are more focused on themselves than on building something with someone else. That’s okay. Everything comes in cycles, and R&B will find its way back.”

Undesirable Truth echoed that sentiment, noting that as people mature and experience life, their tastes will shift again. “When you’re young, you want excitement. As you get older, you start wanting something real. Eventually, the music will reflect that again.”

Final Thoughts

R&B has undeniably shifted from love to lust, reflecting broader societal changes in dating, relationships, and self-empowerment. Omarion and Undesirable Truth make it clear that while the transformation has its downsides, it’s ultimately a reflection of where people are today.

Whether or not R&B will return to its romantic roots remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—the genre will always be a mirror of the culture it serves. And as long as there are artists willing to sing about love, hope, and connection, true R&B will never die.