Best R&B Albums of 2012: ‘Looking 4 Myself,’ Usher

Usher experimented with different genres on his seventh album, 'Looking 4 Myself.' From pop, dance and R&B, the crooner wasn't afraid to dibble and dabble to create a final project that landed atop the Billboard 200 chart, making it his fourth No. 1 album.

The Diplo-produced 'Climax' is arguably the best song of 2012, and Usher's piercing falsetto is amazing to hear. When he's not seducing the ladies with EDM tunes like 'Scream,' he gets funky on 'Show Me' and the infectious retro track 'Twisted.' The singer also shines vocally on 'Whatever Happened to You, which is pure R&B perfection.

Not all of his experimentation works, but we appreciate Usher's fearlessness and that's why his album is on this list. As truly one of the most entertaining artists in R&B and pop music, he has staying power.