This is really unusual for me. I overheard a very classic sounding R&B song yesterday and it struck me. Not just for how Motown it sounded, but also for how modern it sounded. I realize that's a bit of a paradox, but you'll know what I mean when you hear it.
It's Raphael Saadiq's 2009 track "100 Yard Dash" -- it's effortlessly cool and infectiously funky. And the video is great too. I also hear Cupid & Psyche '85 era Scritti Politti in this tune (those backing vocals!).
Fun fact about Raphael Saddiq: He was a founding member of the late-80s/early-90s R&B band Tony! Toni! Tone!
Enjoy.