Few artists have redefined the boundaries of soul, R&B, and funk quite like D’Angelo. With his sultry voice, masterful instrumentation, and timeless grooves, D’Angelo has cemented himself as one of the most influential musicians of our time. From the moment he burst onto the scene in the mid-1990s, this enigmatic artist captivated audiences with his raw talent and emotional depth. His music is more than just songs—it’s a sensory experience, weaving together themes of love, heartbreak, sensuality, and spirituality.
In this article, we’re taking a deep dive into the top 10 most popular D’Angelo songs of all time. These tracks not only showcase his unparalleled artistry but also highlight the evolution of his sound. Whether you’re a long-time fan or discovering his music for the first time, this list will remind you why D’Angelo’s work remains unparalleled in its ability to move, inspire, and ignite passion. From the iconic grooves of “Brown Sugar” to the haunting beauty of “Untitled (How Does It Feel),” each song is a testament to his genius. So, grab your headphones, turn up the volume, and immerse yourself in the magic of D’Angelo’s greatest hits!
1. Brown Sugar (1995)
D’Angelo’s debut single, Brown Sugar, is a smooth, sultry love song that introduced the world to his signature blend of neo-soul, jazz, and R&B. Released in 1995, the track became an instant classic, showcasing his warm, honeyed vocals over a laid-back, groove-heavy beat. Lyrically, the song can be interpreted as both a passionate tribute to a lover and a cleverly veiled ode to marijuana, adding layers of meaning that resonated with fans. The production, built on rich basslines and subtle horn flourishes, creates an intoxicating atmosphere that perfectly complements D’Angelo’s effortless delivery. Brown Sugar was more than just a hit—it marked the arrival of a new voice in R&B, one that would push the genre toward a deeper, more organic sound. The song’s success helped shape the neo-soul movement, influencing artists like Erykah Badu, Maxwell, and Lauryn Hill. It also set the stage for D’Angelo’s career, proving that he was not just another R&B singer but an artist with a vision. Decades later, Brown Sugar remains a defining song of its era, a track that still captivates listeners with its timeless groove and undeniable charm.
2. Lady (1995)
“Lady” is a radiant love anthem that highlights D’Angelo’s smooth vocals and masterful songwriting. Released in 1995 as part of his debut album Brown Sugar, the song stands out as one of his most commercially successful tracks. Co-produced by Raphael Saadiq, Lady blends sultry soul with an infectious funk groove, creating a sound that is both timeless and irresistibly catchy. The lyrics express deep devotion and admiration, as D’Angelo serenades his significant other with heartfelt appreciation. His vocal performance is rich with warmth and sincerity, making every lyric feel like a genuine declaration of love.
The song’s groove-driven bassline and crisp drum patterns give it a danceable quality, making it a standout on both radio and in clubs. Lady played a major role in cementing D’Angelo’s status as a neo-soul pioneer, bridging the gap between traditional R&B and the emerging organic soul movement of the ’90s. Its impact extended beyond its initial release, remaining a fan favorite and an essential track in his catalog. Even decades later, Lady continues to be celebrated as one of the finest love songs of its time, embodying D’Angelo’s ability to craft soulful, heartfelt music.
3. Untitled (How Does It Feel) (2000)
“Untitled (How Does It Feel)” is one of the most iconic songs in D’Angelo’s career, a slow-burning masterpiece that blends passion, vulnerability, and sheer musical brilliance. Released in 2000 as part of Voodoo, the song channels the spirit of Prince with its minimalistic instrumentation, sensual falsetto, and gradual, hypnotic buildup. The track’s structure mirrors the intensity of desire itself, starting with a soft electric guitar riff before swelling into an emotional crescendo. D’Angelo’s voice drips with raw emotion, making the song feel deeply personal and intimate.
Adding to its legacy is the unforgettable music video, featuring D’Angelo in a single-take close-up performance that became an instant cultural phenomenon. While the video drew attention for its striking visual simplicity, the song’s real power lies in its depth and emotional weight. Untitled earned D’Angelo a Grammy for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance and further solidified Voodoo as a landmark album. More than just a love song, it’s a testament to D’Angelo’s artistry and his ability to craft music that transcends time. With its stripped-down production and unfiltered passion, Untitled remains one of the greatest R&B ballads of all time.
4. Cruisin’ (1995)
D’Angelo’s rendition of Smokey Robinson’s classic Cruisin’ is a testament to his ability to reimagine timeless R&B while staying true to its essence. Released in 1995 as part of Brown Sugar, this cover exudes warmth and intimacy, breathing new life into the beloved hit. His velvety vocals glide effortlessly over the track’s soft groove, enhancing the song’s romantic essence while adding his own neo-soul sensibility.
Unlike the original’s light, airy feel, D’Angelo’s version is more sensual and immersive, drawing listeners into a dreamy, love-drenched atmosphere. The rich harmonies, subtle keyboard flourishes, and slow-burning rhythm make Cruisin’ the perfect soundtrack for quiet moments of connection. His vocal delivery is tender yet confident, demonstrating his ability to balance tradition with innovation.
This track further established D’Angelo as an artist who not only respected R&B’s roots but also had the talent to push it forward. His version of Cruisin’ became a favorite among fans, often associated with romantic evenings and sentimental nostalgia. It stands as a reminder of his deep appreciation for classic soul music and his talent for making old songs feel fresh, personal, and timeless.
5. Devil’s Pie (1998)
“Devil’s Pie” is one of D’Angelo’s most politically and socially charged songs, delivering a gritty reflection on materialism, temptation, and corruption. Released in 1998 as part of the Belly soundtrack and later included on Voodoo, the track strips away the romanticism of his earlier work, replacing it with stark reality. Produced by DJ Premier, the song’s hard-hitting, minimalist beat is driven by deep bass, eerie vocal samples, and raw drum loops, giving it a haunting and hypnotic feel.
Lyrically, D’Angelo examines the struggles of staying true to oneself in a world that glorifies greed, power, and excess. With biblical references and a confessional tone, he questions society’s obsession with wealth and pleasure, recognizing the destructive consequences of chasing worldly success. The song’s introspective and almost sermon-like delivery makes it stand out in his discography as a deeper, more thought-provoking piece.
While Devil’s Pie wasn’t a traditional radio hit, it became a cult favorite for its honesty and depth. The track showcased D’Angelo’s versatility, proving that he wasn’t just a love song crooner but an artist willing to tackle complex themes. Its dark, hypnotic energy continues to resonate, making it a standout moment in his career.
6. Left & Right (1999)
“Left & Right” is a bold, funky fusion of neo-soul and hip-hop, showcasing D’Angelo’s ability to effortlessly blend genres. Released in 1999 as part of Voodoo, the track features rap heavyweights Method Man and Redman, adding a layer of playful energy and streetwise swagger to D’Angelo’s smooth sound. The song’s deep, groovy bassline and off-kilter drum pattern create an infectious rhythm, making it one of the most upbeat and danceable tracks on the album.
Lyrically, Left & Right is a confident and flirtatious track, with D’Angelo delivering soulful, seductive vocals while Method Man and Redman bring their signature witty wordplay. The interplay between the soulful chorus and the raw verses creates a dynamic contrast, highlighting D’Angelo’s versatility as an artist. While some fans were initially divided on the track’s hip-hop-heavy approach, it has since been recognized as an innovative experiment that bridges the gap between R&B and rap.
Beyond its groove-heavy appeal, Left & Right showcases D’Angelo’s commitment to pushing boundaries within his music. It’s a song that radiates fun, energy, and chemistry, proving that his artistry extends beyond slow jams into bold, rhythm-driven explorations.
7. Send It On (2000)
“Send It On” is one of the most heartfelt and introspective songs on Voodoo, showcasing D’Angelo’s deep connection to gospel, jazz, and classic soul. Released in 2000, the track carries a warm, meditative quality, built on layered harmonies, rich instrumentation, and a deeply personal vocal performance. The song’s smooth, understated groove allows D’Angelo’s voice to shine, conveying both vulnerability and strength.
Lyrically, Send It On explores themes of love, healing, and faith, encouraging listeners to embrace positivity and perseverance. There’s a spiritual undertone throughout the song, reminiscent of Marvin Gaye’s introspective work, blending soul music’s secular and sacred roots. His delivery is both tender and impassioned, making each lyric feel like a personal revelation.
Musically, the track features organic instrumentation, including fluid basslines, intricate drum patterns, and soft horns that add a jazz-infused elegance. The combination of these elements results in a song that feels timeless and deeply moving. While Send It On wasn’t released as a major single, it remains a standout track that highlights D’Angelo’s ability to create music that resonates emotionally. It’s a quiet masterpiece, filled with sincerity, warmth, and a sense of profound introspection.
8. Playa Playa (2000)
As the opening track of Voodoo, Playa Playa immediately sets the tone for the album’s organic, live-instrumentation approach. Released in 2000, the song embodies the essence of groove, with a hypnotic bassline, crisp drum breaks, and an effortless blend of funk and soul. The track’s laid-back yet confident vibe serves as a perfect introduction to the immersive sonic world that D’Angelo crafted on Voodoo.
Lyrically, Playa Playa is a cool and self-assured anthem, celebrating effortless charisma and charm. D’Angelo’s delivery is smooth and understated, riding the rhythm with an almost conversational ease. The track’s chorus, featuring layered harmonies and call-and-response elements, adds to its infectious energy, making it a standout in his catalog.
The musicianship on Playa Playa is particularly noteworthy, featuring contributions from some of the most talented players in the neo-soul and jazz worlds. The interplay between bass, keys, and percussion creates a rich, immersive soundscape that feels both spontaneous and meticulously crafted. As an opening track, Playa Playa does more than introduce an album—it pulls the listener into an experience, setting the stage for the deeply textured and soulful journey that follows.
9. Betray My Heart (2014)
“Betray My Heart” is a beautifully introspective track from Black Messiah, released in 2014 after D’Angelo’s 14-year hiatus. Steeped in jazz and soul influences, the song highlights his evolution as both a musician and a storyteller. The track’s warm, organic instrumentation creates an intimate, almost live-performance feel, with intricate basslines, flowing piano, and subtle brass accents adding richness to the arrangement.
Lyrically, Betray My Heart is a declaration of integrity and devotion, emphasizing the importance of honesty and staying true to one’s emotions. D’Angelo’s delivery is deeply expressive, blending smooth vocal runs with a heartfelt sincerity that makes the song feel deeply personal. The track’s loose, improvisational energy adds to its authenticity, allowing the listener to feel as though they are witnessing a moment of pure musical expression.
While Betray My Heart may not have been one of the album’s most commercially recognized tracks, it remains a fan favorite for its depth and artistry. It’s a testament to D’Angelo’s ability to merge technical brilliance with raw emotion, proving that his music is not just heard—it’s felt. This song showcases his enduring talent and his refusal to compromise his artistic integrity.
10. Really Love (2014)
“Really Love” is one of the most breathtaking and sophisticated songs in D’Angelo’s catalog, blending elements of classical, jazz, and soul into a deeply romantic masterpiece. Released in 2014 as part of Black Messiah, the track opens with a stunning orchestral introduction, featuring delicate Spanish guitar and lush string arrangements that immediately transport the listener into a dreamlike world.
Once the groove kicks in, Really Love unfolds into a slow-burning love song filled with longing and deep affection. D’Angelo’s vocals, soft yet impassioned, glide effortlessly over the warm, organic instrumentation. The track’s subtle use of layered harmonies and hypnotic rhythms creates an immersive atmosphere, making it one of the most emotionally compelling songs on the album.
Lyrically, Really Love captures the intensity of infatuation and the vulnerability that comes with truly opening one’s heart to another person. The song’s poetic beauty, combined with its rich musical textures, showcases D’Angelo’s ability to blend complexity with deep emotional resonance. Really Love became one of the standout tracks of Black Messiah, earning widespread critical acclaim and reinforcing D’Angelo’s status as one of the most gifted and soulful artists of his generation.
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.
