Sade, born Helen Folasade Adu on January 16, 1959, in Ibadan, Nigeria, is a British-Nigerian singer, songwriter, and composer who has captivated audiences with her sultry voice, elegant style, and timeless music. With her unique blend of soul, jazz, R&B, and pop, Sade has become one of the most influential and revered artists in the music industry.
Sade’s career took off in the 1980s with the formation of her eponymous band, Sade. The band’s debut album, “Diamond Life” (1984), introduced their signature sound and showcased Sade’s velvet-smooth vocals. Hits like “Smooth Operator” and “Your Love Is King” established Sade as a rising star, and the album’s success marked the beginning of a remarkable journey.
Known for her distinctive voice and emotive delivery, Sade has a rare ability to infuse her songs with a sense of sensuality, vulnerability, and sophistication. Her lyrics explore themes of love, desire, and relationships, resonating with listeners on a deep and personal level. Sade’s music has a timeless quality that transcends trends and continues to captivate audiences across generations.
Throughout her career, Sade has released a series of critically acclaimed albums, including “Promise” (1985), “Love Deluxe” (1992), and “Lovers Rock” (2000). Each album has showcased her artistry and musical evolution, blending smooth melodies, lush arrangements, and poetic lyrics. Sade’s songs have a captivating atmospheric quality that creates a world of their own, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in her musical universe.
In addition to her musical talents, Sade’s distinct fashion sense and elegant stage presence have made her an iconic figure. Her timeless style, characterized by sleek hairstyles, minimalistic fashion choices, and an air of effortless cool, has inspired countless artists and fashion enthusiasts.
Sade’s impact on the music industry is evident in her numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards, BRIT Awards, and an induction into the UK Music Hall of Fame. Despite her relatively limited output, Sade’s influence is far-reaching, and her music continues to be celebrated and embraced by fans worldwide.
Beyond her music, Sade is known for her privacy and her commitment to maintaining a low profile. Her ability to cultivate an aura of mystery and intrigue has only added to her allure as an artist.
Sade’s enduring legacy lies in her ability to create music that transcends time and genres. Her soulful voice, combined with her poetic lyrics and impeccable musicality, have touched the hearts of millions. Sade’s music has the power to transport listeners to a place of emotion, serenity, and sheer beauty. She remains a timeless icon and an inspiration to musicians and fans alike.
1. Sweetest Taboo
The classic Sade song, "Sweetest Taboo," is number one on the list of the top 10 best Sade songs of all time.
Its smooth and sensual melody makes it a timeless classic.
It captures the feeling of wanting someone who is forbidden but irresistible.
The intriguing lyrics and Sade's soothing vocals evoke emotions that anyone in love can relate to.
This showcases why Sade is an iconic musician – her unique sound continues to captivate listeners decades later.
What makes "Sweetest Taboo" stand out are its catchy hooks and its relatable narrative.
It continues to be one of the most requested songs on radio stations around the world.
If you haven't heard it, then you're missing out on one of the best love songs ever created.
Experience pure bliss by adding "Sweetest Taboo" to your playlist and fall in love with its timeless melodies.
2. Smooth Operator
Smooth Operator, Sade's iconic track, is still popular today. It oozes with love and desire, making it a classic. A groovy bassline and Sade's sultry vocals make it attention-grabbing. The chorus and saxophone solo are unforgettable. It has been covered and sampled many times, making it one of Sade's most beloved songs.
Behind this smooth sound lies a deeper message. The lyrics refer to the sexual attraction between two people and the art of seduction. Sade wrote it about an older man who enchanted her when she was 15 years old. Smooth Operator still captivates audiences with its irresistible charm.
3. No Ordinary Love
No Ordinary Love by Sade is a timeless classic that has solidified her place as a legendary soul singer. Her sweet vocals and poetic lyrics create a charged atmosphere, expressing love, sadness, and longing. The melancholic melody takes you to a world of nostalgia and sorrow, making it a relatable anthem for many.
Diving further into the song, you can find hidden complexities in every verse. Moreover, Sade's performance displays a rare vulnerability in today's music industry. This sincerity makes No Ordinary Love stand out amongst other ballads, conveying our need for connection.
Interestingly, this song was originally written for the movie, "Indecent Proposal." It wasn't created by Sade for personal reasons, yet her delivery elevates it to an incomparable level. Love may be king, but Sade's songs are the true monarchs of classics.
4. Your Love Is King
Sade's timeless classic, "Your Love Is King," has captured the hearts of millions and is one of her all-time best. With its soulful melody and memorable lyrics, this track displays Sade's talent and artistry.
Fourth on our list, "Your Love Is King" continues to charm audiences with its meaningful message of love and devotion. The song has Sade's signature smooth vocals over a catchy beat you'll be humming for days.
This song is unique in its ability to transcend generations; it's just as popular today as when it debuted in 1984. It also heavily influenced contemporary R&B music, inspiring many artists to follow this sound and aesthetic.
For best results, listen to "Your Love Is King" with headphones or surround speakers to fully take in the production and instrument layering. Paying close attention to the lyrics will give you an appreciation for Sade's music.
Overall, "Your Love Is King" is a must-listen track that takes a special place in music history. Whether you're a hardcore fan or discovering Sade for the first time, this song is sure to become a favorite.
5. Is It a Crime?
Sade's classic "Is It A Crime?" is an anthem of love and heartache. Its mellow yet intense vocals blend with smooth rhythms and guitar melodies. It expresses powerful feelings of desire, passion and betrayal. Lyrics like "I might be anyone, a lone fool out of luck" illustrates the vulnerability of relationships. It showcases raw emotions and sets a standard for musical storytelling.
The song stands out due to its jazz-inspired saxophone solos. This mix of sultry vocals and inventive instrumentation creates a vibe that is both soothing and thrilling.
Did you know it was released as a single in 1985? Written by Sade Adu, Stuart Matthewman, Andrew Hale and Paul Denman, it appears on their classic album "Promise." Rolling Stone magazine called it one of the best songs of the '80s. Move over daddy issues, we've got baby daddy issues with this track.
6. Babyfather
Sade's music? A unique blend of jazz, soul and R&B.
Her track 'Babyfather' is a masterpiece. Her deep, sultry vocals over a hypnotic beat, and lyrics speaking to love and relationships. It's the sixth track on our '10 Best Sade Songs' list.
What sets 'Babyfather' apart? An upbeat tempo, an infectious melody. Even with its themes of longing and heartache, it still uplifts.
It was released in 2010 with her album 'Soldier of Love', after a ten-year hiatus.
The queen of smooth jazz, Sade Adu. Whether you're a fan or new – 'Babyfather' will impress. Let yourself be transported. Give it a listen today! And if you want a loyal companion, 'By Your Side' is the one.
7. By Your Side
Sade's 'By Your Side' is a beautiful ballad known for its romantic lyrics and soulful melody. Released in 2000 on the album 'Lovers Rock', the track opens with Sade's signature silky-smooth vocals, accompanied by a guitar riff.
The lyrics express devotion, commitment, and unwavering support. The instrumentation builds gradually, maintaining its serenity and intimacy. It ends on a soothing note, leaving listeners feeling comforted.
This song is one of Sade's most beloved and encapsulates everything that makes her music special – grace, emotionality, and timelessness. Many artists have covered it, such as Beachwood Sparks, Norah Jones, and Kim Waters.
Cherish the day, until the next heartbreak comes along and ruins it all.
8. Cherish The Day
Cherish The Day is Sade's timeless classic. Its sultry vocals capture the emotion of love. A soulful masterpiece, it takes listeners on a journey of cherishing every moment with someone special. The lyrics are simple – allowing listeners to relate from their own experiences.
The beauty of Cherish The Day is its effortless evocation of passion and romance. Soft piano and mellow beats, with Sade's echoing voice – it's no surprise it's an anthem for couples worldwide.
An incredible feat – Sade's vocal range is showcased. She hits high notes with velvet vocals and emotive depth. The song's production value has stood the test of time – still sounding fresh and relevant.
A friend once told a story of using Cherish The Day during his wedding proposal. They had been through a rough patch, but the song reignited their love. As he proposed, the lyrics "cherish the day" perfectly encapsulated their story.
Prepare to be smitten! Sade's 'Kiss of Life' is lethal – even cynics will swoon.
9. Kiss of Life
"Kiss of Life" is a timeless classic, showcasing Sade's impressive vocal range and signature jazz sound. The song tells of a woman scared of losing her love and reassuring him of her love. The melody blends with its lyrics, plus saxophone breaks adding depth.
As the 9th best Sade song ever, it still captivates audiences around the world. It features on her fourth album 'Love Deluxe', which launched her to new heights.
What makes "Kiss of Life" unique is its ability to convey strong emotions through instrumentation and storytelling, yet remain smooth. The universal theme has seen it play on radio and be in romantic movie scenes.
Did you know "Kiss of Life" comes from Sade's own experiences? In an interview with BBC Radio 1Xtra, she said she wrote it during a hard time when she feared for her daughter's life during pregnancy. She used the song to express her emotions.
10. Paradise
Sade has left a lasting impression on the music industry with her soulful voice and lyrics. '10. Paradise' is no exception. It's dreamy and poetic, evoking an other-worldly, utopian ambiance with Sade's emotive vocal range. This popular track captures the essence of her iconic sound – seductive and vulnerable.
The Nigerian-British singer creates a multisensory experience. She paints vivid landscapes in 'Paradise', taking listeners to a paradise-seeking journey. What sets this song apart is its raw vulnerability. Sade croons about the allure and limitations of chasing an idealized state of being. Her soulful outpouring is genuine and passionate.
Don't miss out on '10. Paradise'. Its melody will enfold you, take you away, and leave you wanting more. Until you hit repeat.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
