D’Angelo, the enigmatic soul virtuoso, has left an indelible mark on the music industry with his unparalleled blend of R&B, funk, and neo-soul. As one of the foremost innovators in contemporary soul music, his discography serves as a testament to his artistic genius and unwavering commitment to musical excellence. In this exploration of the top 10 best D’Angelo songs of all time, we embark on a journey through his illustrious career, spanning over two decades. From his groundbreaking debut album “Brown Sugar” to his critically acclaimed masterpiece “Voodoo” and beyond, D’Angelo has consistently delivered timeless classics that resonate with audiences worldwide. Each track in this curated selection represents a pinnacle of his artistry, showcasing his unparalleled vocal prowess, masterful instrumentation, and deeply soulful lyricism. Whether it’s the infectious grooves of “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” or the introspective beauty of “Really Love,” D’Angelo’s music transcends genres and generations, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and captivate listeners. Join us as we celebrate the brilliance of D’Angelo’s musical legacy and delve into the top 10 songs that have solidified his status as one of the greatest artists of our time.
1. Unshaken
“Unshaken” stands as a testament to D’Angelo’s unparalleled talent and enduring legacy in the realm of soul and R&B music. Released as part of the soundtrack for the critically acclaimed video game “Red Dead Redemption 2,” the song resonates deeply with audiences worldwide, earning its place as one of D’Angelo’s top hits of all time.
With its hauntingly beautiful melody and soul-stirring lyrics, “Unshaken” captivates listeners from the first note. D’Angelo’s velvety smooth vocals effortlessly convey a sense of resilience and determination, making it a timeless anthem for perseverance in the face of adversity.
The song’s masterful instrumentation, characterized by rich, gospel-infused harmonies and soulful guitar riffs, showcases D’Angelo’s exceptional musical prowess and deep-rooted understanding of the genre. Its evocative blend of blues, gospel, and soul elements creates a sonic experience that is both mesmerizing and emotionally resonant.
“Unshaken” not only stands as a standout track in D’Angelo’s illustrious discography but also serves as a shining example of his enduring influence on contemporary music. Its enduring popularity and widespread acclaim solidify its position as one of the best D’Angelo songs of all time, a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire and uplift audiences across generations.
2. Betray My Heart
“Betray My Heart” is a quintessential gem in D’Angelo’s repertoire, captivating audiences with its sultry melodies and heartfelt lyrics. Released as part of his highly anticipated album “Black Messiah,” the song instantly became a standout track, earning its place as one of D’Angelo’s most beloved songs of all time.
With its smooth groove and infectious rhythm, “Betray My Heart” showcases D’Angelo’s signature blend of soul, funk, and R&B. The song’s lush instrumentation, featuring funky basslines, rhythmic guitar licks, and vibrant horn arrangements, creates a sonic tapestry that is both nostalgic and fresh.
D’Angelo’s velvety vocals effortlessly glide over the melody, conveying a sense of vulnerability and longing that resonates with listeners on a profound level. His emotive delivery, coupled with poignant lyrics exploring themes of love, betrayal, and redemption, imbues the song with a timeless appeal that transcends genres and generations.
“Betray My Heart” stands as a testament to D’Angelo’s artistic genius and enduring influence in the world of music. Its intoxicating blend of soulful melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and irresistible groove solidifies its status as one of the top D’Angelo songs of all time, a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences around the globe.
3. The Root
“The Root” is a soulful masterpiece that exemplifies D’Angelo’s unparalleled artistry and musical genius. Featured on his groundbreaking album “Voodoo,” the song remains a cornerstone of his discography and a fan favorite, earning its place among the top D’Angelo songs of all time.
From the moment the track begins, listeners are drawn into its hypnotic rhythm and rich sonic tapestry. The mesmerizing blend of jazz-infused instrumentation, including cascading piano chords, funky basslines, and intricate drum patterns, sets the stage for D’Angelo’s soul-stirring vocals to take center stage.
D’Angelo’s emotive delivery and raw vulnerability shine through as he explores themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the search for identity. His soulful crooning, coupled with poetic lyrics that resonate with depth and authenticity, creates an immersive listening experience that leaves a lasting impression.
“The Root” stands as a testament to D’Angelo’s ability to push the boundaries of contemporary R&B and soul music. Its innovative production, masterful musicianship, and poignant lyricism showcase his unwavering commitment to artistic excellence and musical innovation.
As one of the standout tracks on “Voodoo,” “The Root” continues to captivate audiences with its timeless appeal and enduring relevance. Its seamless fusion of soul, jazz, and funk elements solidifies its status as one of the best D’Angelo songs of all time, a testament to his enduring legacy as a pioneering force in modern music.
4. Untitled (How Does It Feel)
“Untitled (How Does It Feel)” is an iconic anthem of sensuality and desire that catapulted D’Angelo to international fame. Released on his acclaimed album “Voodoo,” the song quickly became one of his most popular and enduring hits, earning its place as a timeless classic in the realm of R&B and soul music.
From its seductive opening guitar riff to its infectious groove and mesmerizing falsetto vocals, “Untitled” captivates listeners with its raw, unbridled passion. D’Angelo’s soulful delivery and intimate lyrics, coupled with the song’s minimalist yet irresistibly smooth production, create an immersive sonic experience that resonates deeply with audiences.
The music video for “Untitled,” featuring D’Angelo’s shirtless silhouette against a black background, became instantly iconic, further cementing the song’s status as a cultural touchstone. Its provocative visuals and steamy ambiance sparked widespread acclaim and solidified D’Angelo’s reputation as a sex symbol and musical innovator.
“Untitled (How Does It Feel)” remains a staple of D’Angelo’s live performances and a fan favorite, beloved for its timeless appeal and undeniable sensuality. Its influence on contemporary R&B and soul music is undeniable, making it not only one of the top D’Angelo songs of all time but also a defining moment in the history of modern music.
5. Brown Sugar
“Brown Sugar” stands as a cornerstone of D’Angelo’s illustrious career, marking his debut single and the title track of his critically acclaimed album. Released in 1995, the song quickly became an instant classic and remains one of D’Angelo’s most beloved and enduring hits.
From its infectious groove to its smooth, soulful vocals, “Brown Sugar” embodies the essence of neo-soul music. The song’s irresistible blend of funk, R&B, and jazz elements creates a sonic landscape that is both timeless and captivating. D’Angelo’s seductive falsetto and intimate lyrics, inspired by his experiences with romantic relationships and his appreciation for African American culture, add depth and authenticity to the track.
As the lead single from his debut album, “Brown Sugar” introduced D’Angelo to the world as a groundbreaking artist with a unique vision and sound. Its innovative production, which incorporated live instrumentation and vintage recording techniques, set a new standard for contemporary R&B and soul music.
Decades after its release, “Brown Sugar” continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, serving as a testament to D’Angelo’s enduring influence and artistic legacy. Its infectious groove and timeless appeal solidify its status as one of the top D’Angelo songs of all time, a classic that remains as sweet as ever.
6. Lady
“Lady” is an emblematic track that embodies the essence of D’Angelo’s early musical style and laid the groundwork for his ascent to R&B stardom. Featured on his debut album, “Brown Sugar,” released in 1995, “Lady” quickly captured the hearts of listeners with its smooth melodies and soulful grooves.
From the moment the song begins, listeners are enveloped in a seductive sonic atmosphere, driven by D’Angelo’s velvety vocals and infectious rhythm. The song’s retro-inspired instrumentation, characterized by funky basslines, crisp percussion, and lush keyboard flourishes, creates a nostalgic yet contemporary sound that resonates with audiences across generations.
“Lady” is more than just a love song; it’s a celebration of femininity and admiration for the women who inspire D’Angelo’s creativity and passion. His heartfelt lyrics and emotive delivery convey a sense of reverence and appreciation, making the song a timeless anthem of devotion and admiration.
As one of the standout tracks on “Brown Sugar,” “Lady” helped solidify D’Angelo’s reputation as a pioneering force in the neo-soul movement of the 1990s. Its infectious charm and enduring popularity have cemented its status as one of the top D’Angelo songs of all time, a classic that continues to captivate audiences with its timeless appeal and heartfelt sentiment.
7. Devil’s Pie
“Devil’s Pie” emerges as a gritty and potent exploration of societal struggles and spiritual quandaries within the context of modern life. Released on D’Angelo’s sophomore album, “Voodoo,” in 2000, the track stands as a bold departure from his earlier work, showcasing his evolution as both a musician and a lyricist.
With its infectious beat and hypnotic groove, “Devil’s Pie” immediately grabs the listener’s attention. The song’s sparse yet powerful instrumentation, featuring deep basslines and haunting guitar riffs, creates a brooding atmosphere that mirrors the weighty themes explored in the lyrics.
D’Angelo’s soulful vocals convey a sense of urgency and defiance as he reflects on the corrupting influence of materialism and excess. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “Everybody wants a slice of my devils pie,” serves as a poignant commentary on the insatiable desire for wealth and fame that permeates society.
“Devil’s Pie” stands as a provocative and thought-provoking piece of music, challenging listeners to confront uncomfortable truths about the world around them. Its bold lyrical content and innovative production solidify its status as one of the top D’Angelo songs of all time, a testament to his fearless creativity and uncompromising vision.
8. Cruisin’
“Cruisin'” is a timeless classic that showcases D’Angelo’s ability to infuse new life into a beloved song. Originally written and performed by Smokey Robinson in 1979, D’Angelo’s rendition of “Cruisin'” was released as a single in 1995, becoming one of his most popular tracks.
D’Angelo’s interpretation of “Cruisin'” pays homage to the original while adding his own distinctive flair. The song’s smooth, laid-back groove and sultry vocals create an atmosphere of romantic escapism, transporting listeners to a place of love and intimacy.
With its lush instrumentation and silky-smooth production, D’Angelo’s version of “Cruisin'” captures the essence of classic soul while giving it a modern twist. His velvety voice glides effortlessly over the melody, infusing the song with a sense of warmth and sensuality that is impossible to resist.
“Cruisin'” quickly became a fan favorite and remains a staple of D’Angelo’s live performances to this day. Its timeless appeal and universal themes of love and romance solidify its status as one of the top D’Angelo songs of all time, a testament to his ability to breathe new life into the classics while staying true to his own unique musical vision.
9. Send It On
“Send It On” is a soulful and uplifting track that showcases D’Angelo’s musical versatility and profound lyricism. Released on his sophomore album “Voodoo” in 2000, the song stands out as a powerful testament to love, unity, and resilience.
From the moment the song begins, listeners are enveloped in its infectious rhythm and soul-stirring melodies. The smooth blend of funk-infused instrumentation, including groovy basslines and vibrant horn arrangements, sets the stage for D’Angelo’s impassioned vocals to take center stage.
“Send It On” is more than just a love song; it’s a rallying cry for solidarity and collective action. The lyrics, with their message of spreading love and positivity in the face of adversity, resonate deeply with audiences worldwide, serving as a reminder of the transformative power of music.
D’Angelo’s emotive delivery and heartfelt sincerity shine through as he urges listeners to “send it on, send it on, send it on.” His soulful crooning, coupled with the song’s infectious groove, creates an uplifting and empowering listening experience that leaves a lasting impression.
As one of the standout tracks on “Voodoo,” “Send It On” continues to captivate audiences with its timeless message of hope and unity. Its infectious energy and universal appeal solidify its status as one of the top D’Angelo songs of all time, a timeless anthem that inspires and uplifts listeners across generations.
10. Left & Right
“Left & Right” is a dynamic and infectious track that showcases D’Angelo’s ability to seamlessly blend soul, funk, and hip-hop influences into a cohesive and electrifying musical experience. Released on his critically acclaimed album “Voodoo” in 2000, the song features guest appearances by rappers Method Man and Redman, adding an extra layer of energy and swagger to the mix.
From the moment the song kicks off, listeners are drawn in by its funky bassline, infectious beat, and catchy hook. The dynamic interplay between D’Angelo’s soulful vocals and the gritty rhymes of Method Man and Redman creates a captivating synergy that keeps the listener engaged from start to finish.
“Left & Right” is more than just a party anthem; it’s a celebration of life, freedom, and self-expression. The lyrics, with their playful yet socially conscious themes, reflect D’Angelo’s artistic depth and versatility, while the song’s upbeat tempo and infectious groove make it impossible not to dance along.
With its irresistible blend of soulful melodies, funky rhythms, and incisive lyrics, “Left & Right” remains a standout track in D’Angelo’s discography. Its enduring popularity and universal appeal solidify its status as one of the top D’Angelo songs of all time, a timeless classic that continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.