Sade, born Helen Folasade Adu in Nigeria in 1959, is an English singer, songwriter, and actress who has become an icon of the smooth jazz and soul genres. She began her career in the 1980s, and her eponymous debut album, “Diamond Life,” became an instant classic, selling over 6 million copies worldwide. Her music is characterized by its sultry, intimate sound, blending elements of jazz, soul, and pop to create a unique and timeless sound.
Sade has released numerous hit songs throughout her career, including “Smooth Operator,” “The Sweetest Taboo,” and “No Ordinary Love.” She has won several Grammy Awards, and her music continues to influence and inspire artists across genres.
Sade’s influence extends beyond her music, with her style and fashion sense becoming a source of inspiration for many. Her timeless look, characterized by simple lines, understated elegance, and a focus on quality, has become a hallmark of her image.
Despite her relatively small output of music, Sade remains a beloved and enduring figure in the world of music, and her voice and style continue to captivate audiences around the world.
1. No Ordinary Love
“No Ordinary Love” is a soulful and emotional track by the English band Sade, released in 1992 as part of their album “Love Deluxe”. The song starts with a gentle piano intro, followed by a haunting saxophone melody that sets the mood for the rest of the track. Sade’s unique voice shines through with her introspective lyrics about the complexities of love, supported by a smooth rhythm section and subtle guitar work. The chorus is a standout moment with its memorable melody and heartfelt delivery. Overall, “No Ordinary Love” is a timeless classic that showcases Sade’s signature sound and songwriting prowess.
2. Smooth Operator
Released in 1984, “Smooth Operator” is a classic hit by English band Sade. The smooth jazz-pop song is defined by its catchy saxophone riff and sultry vocals by lead singer Sade Adu. The song’s lyrics depict a charming and elusive lover, who always seems to be one step ahead of everyone else. The smooth, groovy melody creates a seductive and mysterious atmosphere, further enhanced by Adu’s effortless vocals. The song’s iconic music video features Sade performing the song in a dimly-lit nightclub, adding to the overall allure and sophistication of the track.
3. Sweetest Taboo
“The Sweetest Taboo” is a song by Sade that was released in 1985 on her album “Promise”. The song features Sade’s smooth and sultry vocals over a laid-back, groovy sound, delivering lyrics that reflect on the intensity and passion of a forbidden love. The song became a hit for Sade, reaching the top of the charts in several countries, and has since become one of her most beloved and iconic songs. Its memorable chorus, understated melody, and Sade’s intimate performance continue to make it a classic of the smooth jazz and soul genres, and a testament to Sade’s enduring talent as a singer and songwriter.
4. Babyfather
“Babyfather” is a song by the English band Sade, released in 2010 as a single from their album “Soldier of Love”. The song is a smooth and soulful tribute to fatherhood, with Sade’s velvety voice gliding over a laid-back rhythm and jazzy horns. The lyrics express a deep appreciation for the joys and challenges of being a father, and the importance of family and unity. The song is an uplifting and heartfelt tribute to the role of fathers in the family, and Sade’s soothing vocals and mellow instrumentation make it a perfect choice for a relaxing and reflective listen.
5. Your Love Is King
“Your Love Is King” is a soulful and sensuous song by Sade, released in 1984. The track features Sade’s signature sultry vocals, accompanied by smooth jazz and R&B rhythms. The lyrics express the idea that true love is the ultimate power, and that nothing can compare to the feeling of being loved. The song’s romantic and upbeat tone, along with the elegant instrumentation, make it a timeless classic in Sade’s repertoire. “Your Love Is King” is a testament to Sade’s ability to capture the essence of love and passion in her music, and remains a fan favorite to this day.
6. Is It a Crime?
“Is It a Crime?” is a song by Sade that was released in 1985 on her album “Promise”. The song features Sade’s smooth and sultry vocals over a slow and atmospheric sound, delivering lyrics that reflect on the intense and complicated emotions of a failed relationship. The song became a fan favorite, with its dramatic sound, powerful vocals, and emotionally resonant lyrics making it a standout track on the album. “Is It a Crime?” showcases Sade’s ability to create music that is both sensual and powerful, cementing her status as an icon of the smooth jazz and soul genres.
7. By Your Side
“By Your Side” is a beautiful and emotional love song by the English band Sade, released in 2000. The song is a beautiful blend of Sade’s signature smooth jazz and soulful sound. The lyrics express devotion and unconditional love, promising to stand by the side of the loved one through good and bad times. The song’s mellow melody and Sade’s mesmerizing vocals make it an uplifting and comforting ballad. “By Your Side” received critical acclaim and was a commercial success, reaching the top 20 in several countries. It is considered one of Sade’s most memorable and timeless songs.
8. Paradise
“Paradise” is a soulful, mellow track by English band Sade. Released in 1988 as a single from their third studio album “Stronger Than Pride,” the song’s lyrics revolve around the idea of a utopian paradise where love, peace, and happiness prevail. Sade’s serene vocals, along with the smooth instrumentation of the saxophone, guitar, and keyboard, give the track a dreamy, otherworldly quality. “Paradise” showcases Sade’s unique blend of jazz, R&B, and pop influences, cementing their status as one of the most innovative and iconic bands of the 1980s.
9. Kiss of Life
“Kiss of Life” is a song by Sade that was released in 1993 on her album “Love Deluxe”. The song features Sade’s smooth and soulful vocals over a mid-tempo R&B beat, delivering lyrics that reflect on the power and beauty of love. The song became a hit for Sade, showcasing her effortless vocal range and emotive delivery. Its memorable chorus, understated melody, and Sade’s intimate performance continue to make it a classic of the smooth jazz and soul genres, and a testament to Sade’s enduring talent as a singer and songwriter. “Kiss of Life” remains a fan favorite, and a staple of Sade’s impressive catalog of music.
10. Cherish The Day
“Cherish The Day” is a smooth and sultry R&B song by the English band Sade, released in 1993. The track features Sade’s signature mellow sound and velvety vocals, backed by lush instrumentation. The song’s lyrics encourage listeners to savor every moment in life, to appreciate the present and cherish the memories. The melody is hauntingly beautiful and evokes a sense of longing and nostalgia. The track was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the US Billboard Adult R&B chart, and it remains one of Sade’s most beloved and timeless tracks, still resonating with audiences decades after its release.
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.
