Sade, whose full name is Helen Folasade Adu, is a highly regarded British-Nigerian singer, songwriter, and composer. Born in Ibadan, Nigeria, in 1959, Sade is celebrated for her smooth and sultry voice, and her music is often described as a fusion of soul, jazz, R&B, and adult contemporary genres.
Sade gained international fame with her band, also named Sade, which was formed in London in the early 1980s. Their debut album, “Diamond Life” (1984), and its hit single, “Smooth Operator,” introduced the world to Sade’s distinctive sound and garnered widespread acclaim. Subsequent albums, such as “Promise” and “Stronger Than Pride,” continued to solidify her reputation as an influential artist.
Sade’s music is characterized by its elegant and timeless quality. Her songs often explore themes of love, relationships, and emotional depth, resonating with a broad and diverse audience. Her sophisticated and understated style has made her a beloved figure in the world of contemporary music.
Despite the infrequent release of new albums, Sade’s work remains highly regarded, and she has received numerous awards, including Grammy Awards. Her legacy as a trailblazer in the realm of smooth and soulful music endures, and her influence on subsequent generations of artists is undeniable. Sade’s ability to convey profound emotion through her music has made her a cherished and enduring artist in the hearts of her fans worldwide.
1. Hang On to Your Love
“Hang On to Your Love” is a classic song by the British-Nigerian singer Sade, from her debut album “Diamond Life,” released in 1984. The song was one of the album’s standout tracks and played a significant role in establishing Sade as an international music sensation.
“Hang On to Your Love” is a smooth and soulful R&B ballad that showcases Sade’s signature velvety vocals and her band’s distinctive blend of jazz, soul, and pop. The song’s lyrics convey a message of love, resilience, and the importance of holding on to what truly matters in a relationship. Sade’s emotive delivery and the elegant arrangement of the song make it a timeless and enduring piece of music.
The success of “Diamond Life” and “Hang On to Your Love” marked the beginning of Sade’s illustrious career, earning her critical acclaim and commercial success. The album’s combination of stylish soundscapes and heartfelt lyrics resonated with audiences, solidifying Sade’s reputation as a sophisticated and influential artist.
“Hang On to Your Love” remains a beloved and cherished song in Sade’s repertoire, and it continues to captivate listeners with its enduring message and the timeless beauty of Sade’s voice and music.
2. Kiss of Life
“Kiss of Life” is a song by English musician Sade, from her album “Love Deluxe,” released in 1992. Sade, known for her smooth and soulful voice, is the lead singer of the band also named Sade. The song is noted for its mellow and soothing melody, characteristic of the band’s signature sound.
“Kiss of Life” is known for its romantic and heartfelt lyrics, expressing themes of love and the rejuvenating power of a partner’s affection. The song’s title, “Kiss of Life,” symbolizes the idea that love can breathe new life and vitality into a relationship.
The track received positive reviews from critics and became one of the popular hits from the “Love Deluxe” album. It showcases Sade’s ability to convey deep emotions through her vocals, complemented by the smooth instrumentation provided by her band.
“Kiss of Life” remains a beloved song in Sade’s discography and continues to be cherished by fans of her music. Its timeless and evocative qualities have made it a classic in the realm of contemporary R&B and soul.
3. Cherish the Day
“Cherish the Day” is a song by the English band Sade, led by the singer Sade Adu. It was released in 1993 as a single from their album “Love Deluxe.” The song is known for its smooth, soulful sound and heartfelt lyrics, which are characteristic of Sade’s signature style.
“Cherish the Day” is a romantic ballad that conveys a message of cherishing and appreciating the special moments in a relationship. The lyrics express a deep emotional connection and a desire to savor the love shared between two people.
Sade’s vocals, known for their velvety quality, lend a sensuous and intimate feel to the song. The band’s expert instrumentation complements Sade’s voice, creating a lush and evocative musical backdrop.
The song received positive reviews from critics and has become one of Sade’s enduring classics. “Cherish the Day” remains a beloved track in the band’s repertoire and is celebrated for its ability to convey the timeless and universal theme of love and devotion.
4. Smooth Operator
“Smooth Operator” is one of the most iconic songs by the British-Nigerian singer Sade, from her debut album “Diamond Life,” released in 1984. The song is often regarded as one of Sade’s signature tracks and played a significant role in establishing her as an international music sensation.
“Smooth Operator” is a sultry and jazzy R&B song that exemplifies Sade’s distinct style. It features her smooth and seductive vocals, along with the band’s unique blend of jazz, soul, and pop. The song’s lyrics evoke a sense of allure and sophistication, telling the story of a mysterious and enigmatic lover.
The success of “Diamond Life” and “Smooth Operator” catapulted Sade to stardom. The song’s sleek and stylish sound, coupled with its evocative lyrics, resonated with audiences and earned her critical acclaim, commercial success, and international recognition.
“Smooth Operator” remains a timeless classic and a definitive part of Sade’s catalog. Its alluring melody, the exquisite quality of Sade’s voice, and the song’s enchanting aura have made it a beloved and enduring piece of music, often celebrated as one of the finest examples of her elegant and emotive style.
5. No Ordinary Love
“No Ordinary Love” is a song by the English band Sade, led by the singer Sade Adu. It was released in 1992 as a single from their album “Love Deluxe.” The song is considered one of Sade’s most iconic and enduring works.
“No Ordinary Love” is characterized by its smooth, sultry sound and emotionally evocative lyrics. The song’s lyrics explore themes of intense, complex, and transformative love. The narrator expresses a deep emotional connection and vulnerability, portraying love as a powerful and all-encompassing force.
Sade’s distinctive, velvety vocals infuse the song with a sense of intimacy and sensuality. The band’s skilled instrumentation, which incorporates elements of soul, jazz, and R&B, creates a lush and atmospheric musical landscape.
The song received critical acclaim and became a commercial success, earning a prominent place in Sade’s discography. It has been covered and sampled by various artists and remains a beloved and influential track in contemporary R&B and soul music. “No Ordinary Love” is celebrated for its ability to resonate with listeners on a profound and emotional level.
6. The Sweetest Taboo
“The Sweetest Taboo” is a classic song by the British-Nigerian singer Sade, featured on her second studio album, “Promise,” released in 1985. The song is one of Sade’s most iconic tracks and is celebrated for its smooth and seductive sound.
“The Sweetest Taboo” is characterized by its sensuous and atmospheric blend of soul, jazz, and pop. Sade’s signature sultry vocals take center stage, and the song’s lyrics explore themes of intense, passionate love and the irresistible allure of a forbidden romance.
The track’s success contributed to Sade’s reputation as a sophisticated and influential artist. “The Sweetest Taboo” received widespread acclaim, and its stylish, emotive sound made it a favorite on both radio airwaves and in live performances.
The song has continued to captivate listeners over the years and remains a cherished part of Sade’s musical legacy. Its alluring melody, along with Sade’s remarkable voice, exemplifies her unique ability to create music that resonates deeply with emotions, making “The Sweetest Taboo” an enduring classic in the world of contemporary R&B and soul.
7. By Your Side
“By Your Side” is a song by the English band Sade, led by the singer Sade Adu. It was released in 2000 as a single from their album “Lovers Rock.” The song is known for its gentle, soothing sound and heartfelt lyrics.
“By Your Side” is a love song that conveys a message of unwavering support and commitment. The lyrics express a promise to stand by someone’s side through both good times and challenges. The song’s message of loyalty and devotion resonates with many listeners.
Sade’s vocals, characterized by their smooth and soulful quality, imbue the song with a sense of tenderness and sincerity. The band’s instrumentation, featuring acoustic guitar and gentle percussion, creates a serene and comforting musical backdrop.
The song received positive reviews from critics and became a popular track in Sade’s repertoire. “By Your Side” is celebrated for its ability to capture the essence of enduring and steadfast love. It remains a cherished and meaningful song for fans of Sade’s music.
8. Jezebel
“Jezebel” is a poignant and emotive song by the British-Nigerian singer Sade, featured on her album “Promise,” released in 1985. The song stands as one of Sade’s notable tracks, known for its moving storytelling and soulful sound.
“Jezebel” is a somber ballad that showcases Sade’s smooth and expressive vocals. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a woman named Jezebel, exploring themes of heartbreak, regret, and the complexities of love. Sade’s emotional delivery and the hauntingly beautiful arrangement create a deeply evocative and melancholic atmosphere.
The song’s success contributed to Sade’s reputation as a masterful storyteller and vocalist. “Jezebel” received critical acclaim, resonating with listeners who appreciated its depth and emotional resonance.
Over the years, “Jezebel” has remained a cherished and enduring part of Sade’s catalog. Its melancholic beauty and Sade’s remarkable ability to convey profound emotions through her music have solidified the song’s status as a classic in the world of contemporary R&B and soul.
9. Is It a Crime
“Is It a Crime” is a song by the English band Sade, led by the singer Sade Adu. It was released in 1985 as a single from their album “Promise.” The song is known for its sultry, jazz-infused sound and emotionally evocative lyrics.
“Is It a Crime” explores themes of love, longing, and desire. The lyrics depict a complex and passionate romantic relationship, delving into the emotional turmoil and intensity of the narrator’s feelings. The song’s title and lyrics suggest a sense of forbidden or taboo love.
Sade’s vocals, characterized by their smooth, velvety quality, imbue the song with a sense of sensuality and vulnerability. The band’s instrumentation, which blends elements of soul, jazz, and R&B, creates a lush and atmospheric musical backdrop.
The song received critical acclaim and is considered one of Sade’s standout tracks. Its evocative storytelling and Sade’s captivating vocals have made “Is It a Crime” a beloved and enduring classic in the realm of contemporary R&B and soul music.
10. Paradise
“Paradise” is a hit song by the British-Nigerian singer Sade, featured on her third studio album, “Stronger Than Pride,” released in 1988. The song is known for its smooth and mellow sound and is one of the iconic tracks in Sade’s discography.
“Paradise” is characterized by its signature blend of soul, jazz, and pop elements, with Sade’s soothing and sultry vocals taking center stage. The lyrics of the song convey a sense of longing, desire, and escape, as the singer yearns for a paradise where she can find solace and contentment.
The song’s success further solidified Sade’s reputation as a sophisticated and influential artist. “Paradise” was well-received by both critics and fans, and it became a staple in her live performances.
“Paradise” continues to be a beloved and timeless piece of Sade’s music. Its laid-back melody, the entrancing quality of Sade’s voice, and the song’s dreamy atmosphere have made it a classic in the world of contemporary R&B and soul, often celebrated as one of the highlights of her elegant and evocative style.
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.
