D’Angelo, an artist synonymous with the neo-soul movement, has captivated audiences worldwide with his sultry vocals, intricate compositions, and profound lyrical depth. Since bursting onto the scene in the mid-1990s, his musical journey has been marked by groundbreaking albums and unforgettable singles that have left an indelible mark on the fabric of contemporary music. This article aims to explore the top most popular D’Angelo songs of all time, delving into the magic behind his hits that span decades of musical evolution. From the smooth grooves of “Brown Sugar” to the introspective soul of “Untitled (How Does It Feel),” we will celebrate the enduring legacy of D’Angelo’s artistry, showcasing the tracks that have defined his career and earned him a revered place in music history. Join us as we pay homage to the genius of D’Angelo, revisiting the songs that have made him a legend in the world of soul and R&B.
1. Untitled (How Does It Feel)
“Untitled (How Does It Feel)” by D’Angelo is a quintessential neo-soul masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of R&B to offer a deeply sensual and emotive musical experience. Released in 2000 as part of his critically acclaimed album “Voodoo,” the song showcases D’Angelo’s exceptional vocal prowess and masterful songwriting abilities. The track is renowned for its minimalist instrumentation, featuring a smooth blend of guitar riffs, subtle bass lines, and soft, rhythmic drum patterns that perfectly complement D’Angelo’s soulful voice. The lyrics express a raw and passionate longing, inviting listeners into a vulnerable space of love and desire. Its accompanying music video, which features D’Angelo singing against a simple backdrop, further emphasizes the song’s intimate nature and contributed to its iconic status in popular culture. “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” has been widely praised for its artistic merit and influence, earning accolades and securing a place in the hearts of fans and critics alike. It stands as a testament to D’Angelo’s talent and his ability to create music that resonates on a deeply personal level, making it one of the most beloved and enduring songs of his career.
2. Brown Sugar
“Brown Sugar,” a standout track by D’Angelo, heralds a pivotal moment in the evolution of neo-soul, encapsulating the genre’s essence with its rich, organic soundscapes and D’Angelo’s seductively smooth vocals. Released in 1995 as the lead single from his debut album of the same name, “Brown Sugar” immediately captivated audiences and critics alike, laying the groundwork for the neo-soul movement. The song’s innovative blend of classic soul, jazz, and R&B influences, paired with D’Angelo’s sensual lyrics that cleverly play on the dual meaning of “Brown Sugar,” both as a substance and a metaphor for African American beauty, showcases his ability to bridge the past and present of Black musical traditions. Its laid-back groove, driven by a tight rhythm section and embellished with subtle keyboard flourishes, creates a timeless appeal, highlighting D’Angelo’s talents as a vocalist, songwriter, and musician. “Brown Sugar” not only established D’Angelo as a formidable force in the music industry but also as a visionary artist who could craft songs that felt simultaneously nostalgic and refreshingly innovative. The track’s enduring popularity and influence are testament to its significance in D’Angelo’s catalog and its pivotal role in defining the soundscape of modern soul music.
3. Lady
“Lady,” an iconic track by D’Angelo, stands as a testament to his genius in blending soul, funk, and R&B into a seamless, timeless piece. Released in 1995 as part of his debut album “Brown Sugar,” the song showcases D’Angelo’s velvety vocals and multi-instrumental talents, setting a high bar for neo-soul music. “Lady” resonates with listeners through its lyrical depth, where D’Angelo expresses unwavering love and admiration for a woman, reassuring her of his exclusive attention and appreciation. The instrumentation, characterized by its laid-back groove and lush arrangements, complements the intimate and sincere tone of the lyrics, creating a warm, enveloping soundscape. This track not only solidified D’Angelo’s position as a pioneering force in the neo-soul movement but also celebrated the beauty and strength of Black women, making it a powerful statement of love and respect. The song’s success extended beyond its chart performance, as it became a staple in the repertoires of soul enthusiasts worldwide. “Lady” reflects D’Angelo’s artistic prowess and his ability to evoke emotion, making it one of his most beloved and enduring works.
4. Devil’s Pie
“Devil’s Pie,” a compelling track by D’Angelo, stands as a gritty, introspective critique of materialism and the corrupting influence of wealth and fame in society. Released in 1998 as part of the groundbreaking album “Voodoo,” this song diverges from the smoother, more romantic tones of D’Angelo’s earlier work, presenting a darker, more rhythmic sound that draws heavily on funk, soul, and hip-hop influences. The song’s production, featuring a dense, looping beat and a minimalist, haunting melody, creates a sense of urgency and discomfort that perfectly complements its thematic concerns. D’Angelo’s lyrics poignantly address the temptations of “Devil’s pie” – a metaphor for the deceptive allure of material success – and the soul’s battle against such seductions. His delivery, passionate and raw, conveys a deep sense of disillusionment with the materialistic values dominating contemporary culture. “Devil’s Pie” is not just a song but a social commentary, showcasing D’Angelo’s versatility as an artist capable of engaging with complex issues through his music. It resonated with audiences and critics alike, cementing its place as a critical piece in D’Angelo’s discography and a poignant reminder of the dangers of losing oneself to the pursuit of earthly pleasures.
5. Cruisin’
“Cruisin’,” a standout track by D’Angelo, effortlessly captures the essence of soulful serenity and romantic escapism, making it one of his most cherished songs. Released in 1995 on his debut album, “Brown Sugar,” this cover of Smokey Robinson’s classic exudes a contemporary yet timeless vibe, showcasing D’Angelo’s exceptional ability to blend traditional soul influences with modern R&B. His rendition is marked by a smooth, laid-back groove that immediately invites listeners into a state of blissful ease. The arrangement is minimalist yet rich, with subtle instrumentation that allows D’Angelo’s velvety vocals to shine, enveloping the listener in a warm embrace. Lyrically, “Cruisin'” speaks to the joys of love and companionship, creating an intimate atmosphere that resonates deeply with its audience. D’Angelo’s performance is both passionate and nuanced, reflecting his deep respect for the song’s origins while infusing it with his unique artistic identity. This track not only solidified D’Angelo’s place in the neo-soul movement but also left an indelible mark on the genre, demonstrating the power of music to transcend time and connect hearts. Through “Cruisin’,” D’Angelo invites us to embark on a smooth journey of love and leisure, making it an unforgettable anthem of romance.
6. Send It On
“Send It On,” from D’Angelo’s critically acclaimed album “Voodoo,” stands as a testament to the artist’s unparalleled ability to blend soul, jazz, and R&B into a cohesive and seductive sound. Released in 2000, the song showcases D’Angelo’s smooth, honeyed vocals which glide effortlessly over a rich, organic arrangement, featuring a warm, understated bass line, subtle guitar licks, and a sophisticated horn section that adds a layer of depth and complexity to the track. The song’s lyrical content, a poignant message about love’s power and the importance of emotional generosity, complements its smooth musical backdrop. D’Angelo’s masterful vocal delivery, characterized by its emotional depth and nuanced expression, captures the essence of soul music while pushing the genre’s boundaries. “Send It On” is a sonic journey that exemplifies D’Angelo’s ability to evoke a range of emotions, making it a standout track not only on “Voodoo” but also in the neo-soul genre. Its enduring popularity reflects the song’s timeless appeal and D’Angelo’s status as a visionary artist whose music continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
7. Left & Right
“Left & Right” stands as a defining moment in D’Angelo’s illustrious career, encapsulating the essence of neo-soul with its rich, sensuous soundscapes that blend seamlessly with an undercurrent of hip-hop. Released as a single from his critically acclaimed album “Voodoo,” the song showcases D’Angelo’s masterful integration of complex rhythms and harmonies, enveloping listeners in a groove that is both timeless and innovative. Featuring the rap talents of Method Man and Redman, “Left & Right” bridges the gap between soulful melodies and gritty lyrical flows, creating a sonic experience that is undeniably infectious. The track’s production, characterized by its laid-back yet compelling beat, sophisticated instrumentation, and smooth vocal delivery, exemplifies D’Angelo’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of contemporary R&B. Lyrically, the song delves into themes of desire and seduction, with D’Angelo’s sultry voice weaving through the verses, inviting listeners into a world of intimate connections and late-night musings. “Left & Right” not only solidified D’Angelo’s status as a pioneer of the neo-soul movement but also left an indelible mark on the music landscape of the late ’90s, influencing generations of artists and music lovers alike with its timeless appeal and groundbreaking sound.
8. Unshaken
“Unshaken” is a mesmerizing track by D’Angelo, marking a significant departure from his usual neo-soul style, and it stands out as a testament to his versatility as an artist. Released as part of the soundtrack for the critically acclaimed video game Red Dead Redemption 2 in 2018, the song weaves an atmospheric blend of blues, gospel, and soul, perfectly capturing the game’s expansive, rugged landscape and the introspective journey of its protagonist, Arthur Morgan. D’Angelo’s haunting vocals echo a sense of resilience and solemn reflection, mirroring the game’s themes of redemption, morality, and the relentless passage of time. The minimalist instrumentation, featuring a steady, hypnotic beat and sparse guitar strums, creates a feeling of isolation and determination in the face of adversity. “Unshaken” stands as a remarkable piece in D’Angelo’s discography, not only for its thematic depth and musical beauty but also for how it connects with fans of the game and music lovers alike, showcasing his ability to transcend genre boundaries and evoke powerful emotions through his music. This track is a brilliant example of how video games and music can converge to create unforgettable artistic experiences, solidifying D’Angelo’s place in the pantheon of musical innovators.
9. Feel Like Makin’ Love
“Feel Like Makin’ Love,” a standout track by D’Angelo, exquisitely embodies the neo-soul genre’s essence, blending sensual rhythms with profound emotional depth. This rendition of the classic song, originally performed by Roberta Flack, showcases D’Angelo’s unique ability to infuse traditional soul music with contemporary influences, creating a sound that is both timeless and innovative. The song is highlighted by D’Angelo’s smooth vocal delivery, which effortlessly conveys the song’s intimate themes, and his masterful use of instrumentation that adds layers of complexity to the track. The arrangement features a rich tapestry of sounds, from the gentle strumming of the guitar to the subtle grooves of the bass, all underpinned by D’Angelo’s intricate keyboard work, creating a lush musical landscape that envelops the listener. “Feel Like Makin’ Love” stands as a testament to D’Angelo’s talent as a songwriter and a musician, capturing the raw emotions of love and desire in a way that resonates with listeners, making it one of his most beloved and enduring hits. Through this song, D’Angelo not only pays homage to the soulful roots of his musical heritage but also pushes the boundaries of the genre, solidifying his place as a pioneering figure in the evolution of neo-soul.
10. Spanish Joint
“Spanish Joint” is a compelling fusion of Latin, Afrobeat, and soul influences, masterfully woven together by D’Angelo, marking it as one of his most vibrant and rhythmically complex offerings. Featured on his critically acclaimed 2000 album, “Voodoo,” this track stands out for its rich instrumental layers and sophisticated musicality. The song starts with an infectious bassline that immediately grabs the listener’s attention, setting the stage for a dynamic exploration of sound. D’Angelo’s smooth, soulful vocals effortlessly ride over the intricate rhythms and horn sections, creating a mesmerizing blend that is both refreshing and deeply rooted in musical traditions. The lyrics speak to the complexities of love and connection, delivered with the emotional depth and nuance that D’Angelo is known for. “Spanish Joint” showcases his ability to push the boundaries of neo-soul, incorporating elements from various genres to create a sound that is uniquely his own. The track’s lively tempo and engaging arrangements invite listeners to move, making it a standout piece that not only demonstrates D’Angelo’s musical genius but also his capacity to connect with audiences on a visceral level. Through “Spanish Joint,” D’Angelo reaffirms his position as a visionary artist, capable of transcending conventional genre limitations to craft music that resonates with a universal audience.
Samuel Moore 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.
