Few artists have left as profound a mark on contemporary music as D’Angelo. With his soulful voice, magnetic presence, and unparalleled artistry, D’Angelo is a name that resonates with fans of neo-soul, R&B, and beyond. Since bursting onto the scene in the mid-1990s, this musical genius has consistently delivered tracks that blend raw emotion with masterful musicianship. His songs are not just music—they’re an experience, weaving together themes of love, passion, introspection, and social consciousness.
From his sultry ballads to his funk-infused anthems, D’Angelo’s catalog is a testament to his ability to innovate while staying true to his roots. His albums, including the groundbreaking Brown Sugar and the revolutionary Voodoo, have become iconic, shaping the soundscape of modern soul and influencing countless artists. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to his music, D’Angelo’s songs have a way of pulling you in, stirring your soul, and leaving you wanting more.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the heart of D’Angelo’s legacy, counting down the top 10 most popular songs of all time. Get ready to rediscover the magic and groove to the unforgettable sounds of a true musical legend!
1. Brown Sugar (1995)
D’Angelo’s debut single “Brown Sugar” introduced a new flavor to R&B when it dropped in 1995. The track immediately set him apart with its smooth blend of funk, jazz, and soul, laying the foundation for what would become known as the neo-soul movement. With an intoxicating bassline, jazzy electric piano, and subtle hip-hop undertones, the song oozes cool confidence and sensual energy. D’Angelo’s vocals—silky, layered, and dripping with charm—float effortlessly over the groove, creating a rich sonic texture that feels both vintage and fresh. While the lyrics use sugar as a metaphor for romantic attraction, the song carries a deeper complexity, hinting at themes of desire, dependency, and obsession. “Brown Sugar” isn’t just a love song—it’s a mood, a vibe, a revolution in sound. It redefined what modern R&B could sound like, rejecting overproduction in favor of raw, organic instrumentation. With this track, D’Angelo didn’t just arrive on the scene—he reimagined it. Nearly three decades later, it still sounds as smooth and seductive as ever, earning its place as a timeless classic and a benchmark for soul music that followed.
2. Lady (1996)
“Lady” is one of the standout gems from D’Angelo’s 1995 debut album Brown Sugar, and it perfectly captures the warmth and groove of 1990s R&B. Released as a single in 1996, the song is a smooth, mid-tempo anthem that radiates charm and heartfelt devotion. Co-written and co-produced by the equally talented Raphael Saadiq, “Lady” showcases D’Angelo’s irresistible falsetto, which glides effortlessly over a laid-back rhythm and buttery keyboard chords. There’s an easy confidence to the lyrics—he’s not begging or bragging, just expressing appreciation for a woman who holds his heart. The chorus is catchy without being flashy, and the production is stripped down enough to let the groove breathe. It’s the kind of track that sounds just as good on a dance floor as it does during a quiet moment alone. Commercially, “Lady” became one of D’Angelo’s biggest hits, helping solidify his place as a leading figure in the neo-soul movement. But more than anything, it endures as a feel-good love song that’s both intimate and infectious. Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or the hundredth, “Lady” always hits that sweet spot between romance and rhythm.
3. Untitled (How Does It Feel) (2000)
Released in 2000 as the centerpiece of his critically acclaimed sophomore album Voodoo, “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” is arguably D’Angelo’s most iconic track. From the moment the first note hits, the song casts a spell with its sultry, slow-burning groove. Influenced heavily by Prince, the arrangement is minimal yet deeply textured, with warm electric guitar licks, gentle percussion, and layers of harmonized vocals that wrap around you like smoke. D’Angelo’s vocal performance is a masterclass in restraint and passion—he doesn’t oversing, but every note is loaded with emotion and sensuality. Lyrically, the song explores physical and emotional intimacy, asking a lover with aching sincerity, “How does it feel?” The song’s video—featuring a shirtless, vulnerable D’Angelo seemingly singing directly to the viewer—only deepened its impact, turning it into a cultural moment. While its steamy visuals drew attention, it’s the song’s raw honesty and musical sophistication that have kept it relevant over the years. “Untitled” isn’t just a love song—it’s an immersive experience, a quiet storm that simmers with desire and devotion. It remains a definitive moment in neo-soul and a reminder of D’Angelo’s unmatched artistry.
4. Devil’s Pie (1998)
“Devil’s Pie,” first released in 1998 on the Belly movie soundtrack and later included on D’Angelo’s 2000 album Voodoo, marks a darker, more introspective turn in his music. Produced by DJ Premier—known for his gritty, boom-bap style—the track is a raw, stripped-down meditation on temptation, materialism, and the internal tug-of-war between spiritual values and worldly desires. The beat is sparse but hypnotic, anchored by a deep bassline and punchy drum loops that give D’Angelo’s haunting lyrics room to breathe. He confronts the price of success, the pursuit of pleasure, and the compromises people make chasing fame or fortune. Lines like “I want a piece of the pie, but I won’t lie / I want to live in the sky” showcase a man wrestling with his conscience. D’Angelo’s vocal delivery is more restrained here—cool, contemplative, and slightly weary—which fits the tone of the song perfectly. “Devil’s Pie” isn’t about smooth romance or seductive rhythms; it’s about truth, accountability, and soul-searching. It challenged fans and critics alike to see D’Angelo as more than a heartthrob crooner—he was an artist with something real to say. The track remains one of his boldest statements to date.
5. Cruisin’ (1995)
D’Angelo’s 1995 cover of Smokey Robinson’s “Cruisin’” is a glowing tribute to the timeless charm of soul music, reimagined with the intimacy and warmth that defines his early sound. While the original version by Smokey had its own breezy, romantic vibe, D’Angelo’s take turns the song into an even more sensual and immersive experience. His voice—gentle, velvety, and full of emotional nuance—wraps around each lyric with care, making the listener feel like they’re being personally serenaded. The instrumentation is lush yet understated, featuring warm electric piano, subtle guitar, and smooth, steady rhythms that evoke a long, leisurely drive with someone you love. D’Angelo doesn’t try to outshine the original; instead, he honors it with a fresh perspective that brings new life to the classic. His interpretation is more intimate, more vulnerable—almost like a whispered secret between two lovers. The song became a quiet favorite on his Brown Sugar album, proving that he could reinterpret soul standards without losing the magic. “Cruisin’” is a perfect example of how D’Angelo bridges the old and the new, combining reverence for tradition with his own unique voice and vision.
6. Spanish Joint (2000)
“Spanish Joint” is one of the most vibrant and musically adventurous tracks from D’Angelo’s Voodoo album, released in 2000. Infused with Latin jazz rhythms, funk grooves, and soul sensibilities, the song is a whirlwind of sound that feels both sophisticated and joyful. Right from the start, the lively percussion and flamenco-inspired guitar work set a festive, danceable tone. D’Angelo’s smooth and nimble vocals glide over the rhythm, celebrating love with playful elegance. Lyrically, he paints a picture of connection and spontaneity, as if inviting the listener into a moment of effortless chemistry with someone special. The musicianship is top-tier, featuring complex chord progressions and tight rhythmic interplay that showcase the band’s precision and creativity. “Spanish Joint” proves just how versatile D’Angelo is—not just a soul singer but an artist who can stretch genres while staying true to his essence. The track feels like a jam session turned masterpiece, full of life and color. It’s a reminder that groove doesn’t have to be slow and sultry to be soulful. With its dazzling blend of styles and celebratory spirit, “Spanish Joint” stands as one of the most unique—and underrated—highlights of D’Angelo’s catalog.
7. Feel Like Makin’ Love (2000)
D’Angelo’s cover of Roberta Flack’s “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” featured on his 2000 album Voodoo, is a masterclass in sensuality and restraint. Where the original was soft and romantic, D’Angelo takes things a step deeper, transforming the song into a velvety slow jam that oozes intimacy. The arrangement is minimal and warm, filled with jazzy keyboard flourishes, subtle basslines, and layered harmonies that feel like a warm embrace. His vocal delivery is tender and almost whispered at times, as if he’s singing directly into the ear of a lover. The tempo is languid, allowing every note and phrase to breathe, making space for emotion and atmosphere to flourish. What’s striking about D’Angelo’s version is how deeply personal it feels—it’s not just a performance, it’s an experience. He’s not just covering a classic; he’s reinterpreting it in a way that makes it entirely his own. The track captures the core of what Voodoo is about: mood, groove, and emotional depth. “Feel Like Makin’ Love” is more than just a sexy slow jam—it’s a sensual meditation that showcases D’Angelo’s ability to make even a familiar song feel brand new.
8. The Root (2000)
“The Root” is one of the most emotionally gripping tracks on D’Angelo’s Voodoo album, blending intricate musicianship with powerful storytelling. Built on a swirling groove driven by ?uestlove’s tight drumming and guitarist Charlie Hunter’s complex rhythm work, the song feels like a dream haunted by heartbreak. D’Angelo’s voice is plaintive and raw as he unpacks a narrative of love gone wrong, where betrayal and longing intertwine. Lyrically, the song dives deep into the aftermath of a failed relationship, with poetic reflections on how deeply one can be affected when love turns to pain. “I found the root of it all,” he sings, pointing to the emotional core of his sorrow. Musically, the track is layered and textured, with shifting rhythms and jazz-influenced chords that enhance the song’s moody atmosphere. It’s not a conventional ballad or soul jam—it’s more of a spiritual reckoning, filtered through D’Angelo’s unique lens. “The Root” stands out because it’s not just about heartbreak; it’s about healing and recognition. It’s a slow burn that rewards careful listening, revealing more depth with each play. It’s one of the clearest examples of D’Angelo’s genius as both a songwriter and emotional storyteller.
9. Me and Those Dreamin’ Eyes of Mine (1995)
“Me and Those Dreamin’ Eyes of Mine,” released in 1995 from D’Angelo’s debut album Brown Sugar, is a smooth, romantic daydream set to a lush, jazz-inflected groove. The song perfectly captures that heady feeling of infatuation—the kind that makes the whole world slow down when the object of your affection enters the room. D’Angelo’s falsetto is in top form here, gliding over an arrangement rich with warm Rhodes piano, mellow basslines, and brushed drums that echo classic soul-jazz vibes. Lyrically, it’s a gentle confession of longing, full of reverence and wonder: “I see you each morning / But you just walk past me / You don’t even know that I exist.” There’s a tenderness in his voice that’s both vulnerable and sincere, which gives the track an emotional weight beyond its easygoing rhythm. The song has a timeless quality—it could’ve just as easily come out in the ’70s and felt right at home. It shows D’Angelo’s gift for blending the old with the new, creating music that’s deeply rooted in tradition yet wholly his own. “Me and Those Dreamin’ Eyes of Mine” remains a fan favorite for its beauty, simplicity, and heartfelt honesty.
10. Sugah Daddy (2014)
“Sugah Daddy” is a bold, playful explosion of funk that announced D’Angelo’s long-awaited return with Black Messiah in 2014. From the very first notes, the song is a joyous cacophony—syncopated horns, offbeat piano, and scattered percussion all come together in a groove that’s both messy and masterful. It feels loose and improvisational, like a live jam session caught on tape, but every element is perfectly in its place. D’Angelo’s falsetto bounces over the beat with swagger and mischief, singing about seduction and indulgence with a wink. The lyrics are cheeky and flirtatious, giving the song a lighthearted edge amidst its complex arrangement. What makes “Sugah Daddy” so fascinating is its refusal to be boxed in—it blends funk, soul, gospel, and jazz in a way that sounds completely modern while paying homage to the past. It’s a triumphant return, not just because of its energy but because it proves D’Angelo hadn’t lost a step. In fact, he came back even deeper, funkier, and more daring. “Sugah Daddy” is the sound of an artist having fun with his craft while flexing his musical genius—and it’s absolutely infectious.
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.
