R&B and no Bass?

[zvalera]

I'm learning to write and arrange in an R&B style. As I listen to current songs on the radio, I'm not always hearing the bass. Is there an arrangement technique where they don't use the bass in the verses then bring it into the chorus?

or is it that the bass and kick or mixed/blended tightly that I can't hear it?

I'm thinking of the following songs as examples:

Hate that I Love You (Rihanna)
With You (Chris Brown)
Irreplaceable (Beyance)

If anyone's familiar with these songs and can comment on them in their reply, I'd sure appreciate it!

[DWBass]

No, that's not a 'typical' r&b style. Use your ears and write what's pleasing to you. Some modern producers do use an 808 kick to sub for bass. Bear in mind that a lot of 'new' r&b isn't written in full band arrangement style and instead is built in layers.

[ERIC31]

Yeah that's one problem I have with "modern" R&B......no bands anymore. Some of the artists may take out a full band on tour but as far as the records go....the producer/programmer, a bunch of synths and the computer does the rest.

[zvalera]

What would be considered modern (last 3 years) "typical R&B" as mentioned in the first reply?? What albums or artist...

Then is it true that there is NO BASS in sections of the songs that I listed??? I'm asking you guys cuz you guys since it's your main instrument.

[zvalera]

what are some song examples that use the 808 Kick?

[Deluge Of Sound]

When Doves Cry is bassless.