D’Angelo, the enigmatic force behind the neo-soul revival of the 1990s, has left an indelible mark on the music world with his sultry voice, intricate musicianship, and raw, emotional authenticity. From the moment he burst onto the scene with his groundbreaking debut album Brown Sugar, D’Angelo has consistently pushed the boundaries of what soul music can be, blending elements of funk, jazz, and R&B into a sound that is uniquely his own. His ability to craft songs that resonate with both the heart and the mind has earned him a devoted fanbase and critical acclaim that few artists can match.
In this article, we’re diving into the top 10 most popular D’Angelo songs of all time—a collection of tracks that showcase his unparalleled talent and artistic evolution. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering his music, these songs are a testament to D’Angelo’s genius and the timeless appeal of his work. From the smooth grooves of “Brown Sugar” to the revolutionary soundscapes of Voodoo and the introspective depth of Black Messiah, these tracks represent the very best of an artist who continues to influence and inspire musicians around the world. Get ready to immerse yourself in the soulful brilliance of D’Angelo.
1. Brown Sugar (1995)
D’Angelo’s debut single, “Brown Sugar,” is nothing short of iconic. Released in 1995, this track introduced the world to D’Angelo’s smooth, sultry voice and effortless blend of R&B, funk, and neo-soul. The song’s laid-back groove, punctuated by jazzy chords and a head-nodding bassline, perfectly complements D’Angelo’s silky vocals as he croons about an intoxicating love. “Brown Sugar” quickly became a defining anthem of the neo-soul movement, earning D’Angelo critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Its timeless vibe and fresh sound still resonate today, making it a staple in D’Angelo’s catalog and a classic in the genre.
2. Lady (1996)
Released in 1996, “Lady” solidified D’Angelo’s status as a rising star in the world of R&B. This track, with its infectious melody and smooth production, became one of D’Angelo’s biggest hits. The song celebrates the beauty and grace of a significant other, with D’Angelo’s vocals effortlessly gliding over a lush arrangement of warm keys, funky guitar riffs, and a steady, head-bobbing beat. “Lady” became a Top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, further establishing D’Angelo as a voice to be reckoned with in the neo-soul genre. The song’s blend of classic soul influences with a modern twist makes it a timeless love anthem.
3. Untitled (How Does It Feel) (2000)
“Untitled (How Does It Feel)” is perhaps D’Angelo’s most well-known and celebrated song. Released in 2000 as part of his critically acclaimed album Voodoo, the track is a slow-burning, sensual ode that showcases D’Angelo’s impeccable vocal control and emotional depth. The song’s stripped-down instrumentation, featuring nothing more than a simple drum pattern, a subtle guitar line, and D’Angelo’s powerful voice, creates an intimate atmosphere that draws the listener in. The accompanying music video, with its minimalist approach, further cemented the song’s iconic status. “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” remains a defining moment in D’Angelo’s career and a benchmark for soulful expression.
4. Devil’s Pie (1998)
“Devil’s Pie” is a gritty, thought-provoking track that delves into the darker side of life and the temptations that come with fame and success. Released in 1998 as part of the Belly movie soundtrack and later included on Voodoo, this song marked a stark departure from the smoother sounds of D’Angelo’s earlier work. The production, handled by DJ Premier, features a haunting loop and a minimalistic beat that allows D’Angelo’s introspective lyrics to take center stage. “Devil’s Pie” is a raw and unflinching look at the struggles and contradictions faced by those in the limelight, making it one of D’Angelo’s most powerful and enduring tracks.
5. Cruisin’ (1995)
D’Angelo’s rendition of Smokey Robinson’s “Cruisin'” is a masterclass in how to reinterpret a classic while making it your own. Released in 1995 as a single from his debut album Brown Sugar, D’Angelo’s version of “Cruisin'” is a smooth, sensual journey that drips with nostalgia and longing. His warm, velvety vocals breathe new life into the song, while the laid-back arrangement, featuring gentle guitar strums and subtle keyboard flourishes, creates a relaxing, almost hypnotic atmosphere. “Cruisin'” showcases D’Angelo’s ability to honor the past while forging his own path, making it a standout track in his early career.
6. Left & Right (1999)
“Left & Right,” released in 1999, is a funky, upbeat track that features collaborations with hip-hop legends Method Man and Redman. The song, which appears on D’Angelo’s Voodoo album, is a perfect blend of neo-soul and hip-hop, with a catchy, danceable groove that makes it an instant crowd-pleaser. D’Angelo’s smooth vocals glide effortlessly over the track’s infectious rhythm, while Method Man and Redman add their signature flair with playful, energetic verses. “Left & Right” showcases D’Angelo’s versatility as an artist and his ability to seamlessly blend genres, creating a sound that is both innovative and timeless.
7. Feel Like Makin’ Love (2000)
D’Angelo’s cover of the classic song “Feel Like Makin’ Love” is a standout moment on his Voodoo album, released in 2000. Originally performed by Roberta Flack, D’Angelo reimagines the track with his signature blend of neo-soul and funk, infusing it with a warm, intimate vibe. His buttery-smooth vocals and the song’s lush, layered instrumentation create a sensual atmosphere that perfectly captures the essence of the original while making it uniquely his own. “Feel Like Makin’ Love” is a testament to D’Angelo’s ability to reinterpret timeless classics in a way that feels fresh and contemporary, solidifying his place as a modern soul icon.
8. Spanish Joint (2000)
“Spanish Joint” is one of the most musically complex and exciting tracks on D’Angelo’s Voodoo album. Released in 2000, the song blends elements of Latin jazz, funk, and soul to create a vibrant, danceable groove that is impossible to resist. The track features incredible musicianship, with intricate guitar work, syncopated rhythms, and D’Angelo’s smooth, expressive vocals weaving together to create a rich, textured sound. “Spanish Joint” showcases D’Angelo’s ability to push the boundaries of genre and create music that is both innovative and deeply soulful. It’s a track that delights the senses and invites the listener to lose themselves in its infectious rhythm.
9. Sugah Daddy (2014)
“Sugah Daddy” marked D’Angelo’s triumphant return to the music scene after a 14-year hiatus. Released in 2014 as the lead single from his album Black Messiah, the track is a funky, energetic celebration of love and desire. The song’s lively rhythm, driven by tight drum patterns, jazzy piano riffs, and a punchy horn section, creates an infectious groove that harks back to the classic sounds of funk and soul while still feeling fresh and contemporary. D’Angelo’s playful, charismatic vocals add to the song’s irresistible charm. “Sugah Daddy” is a powerful reminder of D’Angelo’s unparalleled talent and his ability to craft music that is both timeless and cutting-edge.
10. Really Love (2014)
“Really Love” is one of the standout tracks from D’Angelo’s critically acclaimed 2014 album Black Messiah. The song is a lush, romantic ballad that showcases D’Angelo’s ability to create deeply emotional and intimate music. The track opens with a beautiful string arrangement that sets the tone for the rest of the song, before transitioning into a smooth, laid-back groove anchored by gentle guitar strums and subtle percussion. D’Angelo’s vocals are tender and heartfelt, conveying a sense of vulnerability and longing that is truly captivating. “Really Love” is a stunning example of D’Angelo’s artistry and his ability to create music that resonates on both an emotional and musical level.
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.
