Few artists in music history have left as profound a mark on R&B and neo-soul as D’Angelo. With his velvety voice, masterful instrumentation, and ability to blend raw emotion with intricate melodies, D’Angelo has become a legend in the genre. From his groundbreaking debut in the mid-1990s to his triumphant return after a nearly 14-year hiatus, every song he creates feels like a journey into the depths of soul music.
In this article, we dive into the top 10 most popular songs by D’Angelo—a celebration of his artistry, innovation, and the unforgettable grooves that have made him a staple in playlists across generations. Whether you’ve swayed to the seductive rhythm of “Untitled (How Does It Feel),” been entranced by his rich harmonies in “Brown Sugar,” or felt the raw grit of “The Charade,” D’Angelo’s music transcends time and speaks to the soul.
Join us as we explore the songs that not only defined his career but also reshaped the landscape of modern R&B. From sultry love ballads to politically charged anthems, these tracks are more than just music—they’re experiences. Let’s celebrate the genius of D’Angelo and the songs that continue to captivate the world.
1. Brown Sugar (1995)
“Brown Sugar” wasn’t just a debut single—it was a bold statement that introduced D’Angelo as the face of the neo-soul movement. Released in 1995, the song combined the warmth of classic soul with the attitude of hip-hop and the improvisational feel of jazz, creating something deeply fresh and intoxicating. With a groove that feels like it was plucked from a smoky lounge, D’Angelo sings about a love that’s both addictive and all-consuming. His vocals, smooth yet raw, wrap around the track with effortless charm, hinting at both reverence for the past and a hunger to push the genre forward. Many listeners have interpreted “Brown Sugar” as a double entendre—an ode to both a woman and to marijuana—adding a layer of mystique and edge. The production, led by D’Angelo himself, is minimal but rich, with thick basslines and Rhodes keys that set the mood just right. More than just a hit, “Brown Sugar” was a cultural shift, bringing back soul with a modern twist at a time when R&B was leaning more heavily into slicker pop territories. It laid the foundation for a new sound and announced the arrival of an artist who would redefine the genre.
2. Lady (1995)
Released in 1995 from his debut album Brown Sugar, “Lady” remains one of D’Angelo’s most beloved and recognizable tracks. This smooth, mid-tempo love song captures the charm of classic R&B while still feeling fresh and soulful. Co-written with Raphael Saadiq, the song is a heartfelt dedication to a woman he cherishes deeply, celebrating her presence and the sense of calm and completeness she brings into his life. What sets “Lady” apart is its warm, inviting groove—anchored by funky bass, mellow keys, and D’Angelo’s signature layered harmonies. His vocal delivery is intimate, full of admiration, but also tinged with that slightly gritty edge that makes his music so emotionally real. There’s a sincerity to the lyrics, which don’t overcomplicate love but honor it in its purest, most affectionate form. The song became a commercial success, charting on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying D’Angelo as more than just a neo-soul innovator—he was a true romantic. “Lady” has stood the test of time because it taps into something universal: the joy of being loved and the pride in loving someone deeply. It’s soulful, sweet, and effortlessly cool—just like D’Angelo himself.
3. Untitled (How Does It Feel) (2000)
Few songs in modern R&B history have the impact or intimacy of D’Angelo’s “Untitled (How Does It Feel).” Released in 2000 as part of his groundbreaking Voodoo album, this song is a slow-burning ballad that redefined sensuality in music. It opens with a delicate electric guitar riff reminiscent of Prince, and from the first note, it’s clear that something special is unfolding. D’Angelo’s vocals—pure, aching, and vulnerable—build gradually to an emotional and vocal climax that’s both spiritual and physical. The song is about longing, connection, and the overwhelming nature of desire. Yet it never feels forced or overproduced; instead, it lives in the quiet spaces between the notes, letting the tension grow naturally. The minimalist arrangement allows every breath, sigh, and falsetto to hit with maximum emotional impact. And, of course, the now-iconic music video—featuring D’Angelo seemingly bare and shot in a single take—amplified the song’s vulnerability and intensity, turning it into a cultural phenomenon. “Untitled” isn’t just a love song—it’s a masterclass in restraint, control, and emotional expression. It cemented D’Angelo’s legacy as a true artist who could bare his soul without saying too much.
4. Devil’s Pie (1998)
“Devil’s Pie” is D’Angelo at his most raw and reflective, trading the sensuality of earlier hits for something darker and more contemplative. Originally released in 1998 as part of the Belly movie soundtrack and later included on his Voodoo album, this track dives headfirst into themes of temptation, materialism, and spiritual conflict. Produced by the legendary DJ Premier, the beat is stripped-down but gritty, with a dusty snare and haunting sample loops that feel more East Coast hip-hop than traditional R&B. D’Angelo leans into that atmosphere with a vocal performance that’s both weary and wise, questioning the price of fame, excess, and moral compromise. Lines like “Ain’t no justice / It’s just us” hit with blunt force, making it clear this isn’t your average soul song—it’s a sermon, a confession, and a social critique all rolled into one. “Devil’s Pie” reveals another side of D’Angelo: the thinker, the prophet, the man who sees beyond the surface. While not a radio hit, the song resonated with fans and critics for its depth and honesty. It showed that soul music could still challenge, provoke, and make you think, even as it made you groove.
5. Cruisin’ (1995)
D’Angelo’s rendition of Smokey Robinson’s classic “Cruisin’,” released in 1995 on his debut album Brown Sugar, is a masterclass in respectful reinvention. Rather than attempting to outdo the original, D’Angelo leans into the song’s romantic core and infuses it with his signature blend of warmth and soul. His version is smoother, slower, and more atmospheric, wrapping listeners in a cozy blanket of organ chords, soft percussion, and buttery vocals. Where Smokey’s version is light and breezy, D’Angelo’s take feels more intimate—like a quiet moment shared between two lovers late at night. He stretches each note with care, his phrasing tender and deliberate, as if savoring every emotion. The result is a song that feels both nostalgic and fresh, honoring the Motown era while firmly placing it in the 90s neo-soul movement. “Cruisin’” highlights D’Angelo’s skill as an interpreter of music—not just a creator. He has a unique ability to find new depth in familiar songs, making them feel entirely his own. This cover became a fan favorite, proving that sometimes, the most powerful thing an artist can do is slow down, breathe, and let the soul shine through.
6. Me and Those Dreamin’ Eyes of Mine (1995)
“Me and Those Dreamin’ Eyes of Mine” is one of the most romantic and musically lush songs from D’Angelo’s Brown Sugar album. Released in 1995, this track is soaked in soulful nostalgia, with a jazz-tinged arrangement that makes it feel like a slow dance in a candlelit room. From the first dreamy keyboard chord to the gentle sway of the rhythm section, the song creates an atmosphere that’s all about longing, imagination, and unspoken love. D’Angelo’s lyrics capture the essence of quiet yearning—he’s caught up in fantasies about someone he can’t stop thinking about, and his voice delivers every word with a mix of hope and heartache. The harmonies, layered and buttery-smooth, bring a gospel-like warmth, while the instrumentation glides with a mellow groove that evokes Stevie Wonder or Donny Hathaway. Yet even with those influences, D’Angelo’s sound remains unmistakably his own—intimate, sensual, and emotionally raw. “Me and Those Dreamin’ Eyes of Mine” isn’t just a love song; it’s a snapshot of romantic daydreaming at its most beautiful. It highlights his ability to take listeners inside his emotional world, making every note feel deeply personal.
7. Left & Right (1999)
“Left & Right,” released in 1999, is one of the most energetic and genre-blending tracks from D’Angelo’s Voodoo album. Featuring powerhouse rap verses from Method Man and Redman, the song is a bold fusion of hip-hop swagger and D’Angelo’s smooth neo-soul vibe. The beat is funky and infectious, driven by a bouncing bassline and playful guitar licks that lay the foundation for this musical exchange between soul and rap. D’Angelo’s vocals float with effortless cool, contrasting beautifully with the gritty, punchy flows from his collaborators. Lyrically, the song doesn’t take itself too seriously—it’s flirtatious, fun, and full of charisma, giving D’Angelo a chance to show his lighter, more extroverted side. Unlike his more introspective or romantic tracks, “Left & Right” is about movement, rhythm, and chemistry—both musical and romantic. The chemistry between the artists is undeniable, making the track feel spontaneous and alive. It’s proof of D’Angelo’s versatility: he could switch from tender falsettos to streetwise funk without missing a beat. “Left & Right” brought a playful edge to Voodoo, reminding fans that soul can still have a sense of humor and a whole lot of bounce.
8. Really Love (2014)
“Really Love,” released in 2014 from D’Angelo’s Black Messiah, is a stunning return to form that showcases his evolution both musically and emotionally. The song opens with a Spanish guitar intro that instantly grabs your attention, setting a romantic and almost cinematic tone. Then, lush strings sweep in, and D’Angelo’s voice—soft, vulnerable, and full of depth—takes center stage. Lyrically, “Really Love” is a declaration of sincere, unshakable devotion. It’s not just about desire or passion, but about cherishing someone deeply, almost reverently. D’Angelo sings like he’s confessing his heart directly to a lover, with every note steeped in emotion. The arrangement is complex yet organic, with layers of percussion, harmony, and classical touches that elevate the song into something timeless. “Really Love” feels like the culmination of everything D’Angelo had been building toward: musical maturity, lyrical honesty, and fearless artistry. It’s sensual, yes—but also spiritual, intimate, and incredibly nuanced. The song quickly became a fan favorite and critical highlight, earning him a Grammy nomination and reminding the world that real soul music never fades. “Really Love” stands as one of the crown jewels in his discography, a masterclass in modern R&B.
9. Sugah Daddy (2014)
“Sugah Daddy,” from 2014’s Black Messiah, is D’Angelo at his funkiest and most playful. The song bursts with swagger and rhythm from the first note, combining old-school soul vibes with a fresh, spontaneous energy. Driven by a quirky, syncopated piano riff and tight horns, it sounds like something that could have been recorded live in a smoky club, full of charisma and groove. D’Angelo’s vocal performance here is mischievous and flirtatious, riding the beat with a looseness that feels almost improvised. He’s clearly having fun—and that joy is infectious. “Sugah Daddy” is a reminder of the influence of artists like James Brown and Sly Stone on D’Angelo’s work. There’s a vintage feel to the track, but it’s filtered through his unique sensibility, making it feel both nostalgic and entirely fresh. The lyrics are cheeky, playing with the idea of being someone’s indulgent provider, while the music keeps things light and bouncy. Unlike some of the more serious, politically charged songs on Black Messiah, this one is all about the rhythm and the moment. “Sugah Daddy” is a celebration of musical freedom and a testament to D’Angelo’s mastery of funk and soul traditions.
10. The Root (2000)
“The Root,” a standout track from D’Angelo’s 2000 album Voodoo, is a deep, haunting exploration of heartbreak, betrayal, and emotional entanglement. From the moment it begins, the song feels different—darker, moodier, and more introspective than many of his earlier hits. Built on a slow, hypnotic groove and intricate guitar work from Charlie Hunter, the track carries a weight that lingers. D’Angelo’s voice is rich with pain and reflection as he unpacks the emotional wreckage of a failed relationship. He describes being spiritually “rooted” in someone else, even as that connection poisons him—a powerful metaphor for love turned toxic. The layered production, full of ghostly harmonies and shifting rhythms, mirrors the turmoil he’s singing about. The music never settles into a predictable pattern, keeping the listener slightly off-balance, just like the song’s narrator. “The Root” reveals D’Angelo as a deeply thoughtful songwriter and arranger, capable of crafting songs that explore emotional depth without losing their groove. It’s one of the most soul-baring moments on Voodoo, a complex, immersive piece of music that shows how heartbreak can inspire beauty and truth. It’s not just a song—it’s a journey through emotional chaos and creative brilliance.
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.
