D’Angelo is a name that resonates deeply within the realm of contemporary soul and R&B, captivating listeners with his smooth vocals and innovative sound. Bursting onto the scene in the mid-90s, he quickly established himself as a musical powerhouse, blending elements of funk, jazz, and hip-hop into a signature style that is both timeless and fresh. His work not only redefined modern soul but also laid the groundwork for a new generation of artists.
In this article, we celebrate the top 10 most popular D’Angelo songs of all time, showcasing his remarkable ability to evoke emotion and create a connection through his music. From sultry ballads that explore the depths of love to upbeat tracks that make you want to move, D’Angelo’s discography is a testament to his artistry and mastery of sound. Each song tells a story, each note resonates with passion, and together they form a rich tapestry of musical genius. Join us as we dive into the tracks that have left an indelible mark on the music landscape, highlighting why D’Angelo remains an icon in the industry. Get ready to groove, reflect, and rediscover the magic of D’Angelo!
1. Brown Sugar (1995)
“Brown Sugar” is the sultry, unforgettable title track from D’Angelo’s groundbreaking 1995 debut album. This song immediately set him apart as a fresh and captivating voice in the music world. With its irresistible fusion of R&B, funk, and jazz, “Brown Sugar” exudes a smooth, sensual vibe that feels both retro and forward-thinking. D’Angelo’s silky, intoxicating vocals glide effortlessly over a groovy bass line, crisp percussion, and warm keyboard textures. Lyrically, the song playfully explores themes of infatuation and desire, wrapped in clever wordplay and soulful melodies. At a time when mainstream R&B was dominated by polished pop sounds, D’Angelo brought something raw, organic, and deeply rooted in tradition. This track didn’t just become a hit — it helped lay the foundation for the neo-soul movement, inspiring a new generation of artists to embrace authenticity and musicianship. “Brown Sugar” isn’t just a song; it’s a vibe, a statement, and a testament to the power of blending the old with the new. To this day, it remains one of the most celebrated and influential tracks in modern soul music, signaling the arrival of D’Angelo as a true game-changer.
2. Lady (1996)
Released in 1996, “Lady” became one of D’Angelo’s most beloved and successful songs, embodying the warmth and richness of true soul music. This smooth, mid-tempo groove is a love letter to the woman who holds his heart, with lyrics that exude appreciation, devotion, and admiration. From the opening chords, the listener is pulled into a lush soundscape filled with warm guitar licks, a steady bassline, and layered harmonies that create an intimate atmosphere. D’Angelo’s velvet-smooth vocals are at their most tender here, as he croons about his “lady” with both reverence and passion. What makes “Lady” so special isn’t just its lyrical sweetness but also the sheer musicality — every note feels intentional, every groove meticulously crafted. The track captures the essence of timeless love songs while sounding fresh and modern for its time. Its success helped solidify D’Angelo’s place as a torchbearer for neo-soul, blending the sensibilities of classic soul legends like Marvin Gaye with his own innovative flair. Decades later, “Lady” continues to resonate, serving as the soundtrack for countless love stories and late-night slow jams.
3. Untitled (How Does It Feel) (2000)
“Untitled (How Does It Feel)” is often considered the crown jewel of D’Angelo’s career — a masterclass in sensuality, vulnerability, and vocal mastery. Released in 2000 as part of his acclaimed album Voodoo, this slow-burning ballad redefined what a love song could sound like in the modern era. Anchored by a minimalist arrangement, the track allows D’Angelo’s hypnotic falsetto to take center stage, delivering every note with raw emotion and flawless control. The song channels the spirit of Prince, blending sexual tension with soul-deep vulnerability. Every guitar strum and drum hit feels deliberate, contributing to an atmosphere that’s intimate, smoky, and intensely personal. The accompanying music video, featuring D’Angelo appearing bare and vulnerable, further heightened the song’s impact and sparked conversations far beyond the music world. More than just a song about physical desire, “Untitled” explores emotional closeness and the longing for deep connection. Its haunting simplicity and breathtaking vocal performance continue to influence artists and captivate listeners, standing as one of the most iconic R&B recordings of the 21st century.
4. Cruisin’ (1995)
D’Angelo’s 1995 cover of “Cruisin’,” originally made famous by Smokey Robinson, is a shining example of how a great artist can breathe new life into a classic. His version doesn’t just mimic the original — it reimagines it with a sultry, neo-soul twist that feels both nostalgic and refreshing. With his signature velvet-smooth vocals, D’Angelo turns “Cruisin’” into an intimate, late-night ride filled with romance and tenderness. The laid-back groove is supported by lush instrumentation — gentle guitar strums, smooth basslines, and airy keys — all coming together to create a vibe that feels timeless. His vocal delivery is both soothing and seductive, wrapping listeners in warmth and affection. It’s the kind of song that feels perfect for slow dancing under dim lights or taking a peaceful drive with someone special. More than just a cover, this track demonstrates D’Angelo’s deep respect for the R&B legends who came before him, while showcasing his own ability to reinterpret and innovate. It’s a highlight of his debut album and a fan favorite that continues to charm listeners to this day.
5. Send It On (2000)
“Send It On,” from D’Angelo’s Voodoo album released in 2000, is a mesmerizing fusion of soul, funk, and jazz that perfectly captures the warmth and complexity of his sound. Built on a hypnotic groove, the song unfolds with layers of lush harmonies, rich bass lines, and syncopated rhythms that draw you in deeper with every listen. Lyrically, “Send It On” is a heartfelt plea for love, kindness, and human connection. D’Angelo urges listeners to share love like a message passed forward, reminding us of the ripple effect that compassion can have. His voice floats effortlessly over the intricate production, delivering each line with a mixture of tenderness and conviction. The track’s live, almost improvisational feel is a hallmark of the Voodoo album, reflecting D’Angelo’s commitment to organic, authentic music-making. “Send It On” isn’t just a beautiful love song — it’s also a spiritual experience, encouraging listeners to reflect on how they impact those around them. It stands as one of the most soulful and emotionally resonant tracks in D’Angelo’s catalog, reinforcing his status as one of neo-soul’s most important voices.
6. Devil’s Pie (1998)
“Devil’s Pie,” released in 1998 as part of the Belly movie soundtrack and later included on Voodoo, marks one of D’Angelo’s most gritty and socially conscious tracks. Unlike his smoother love songs, “Devil’s Pie” dives deep into the complexities of fame, materialism, and spiritual conflict. Produced by the legendary DJ Premier, the track has a raw, stripped-down beat layered with ominous keys and a thumping bassline that matches the weight of the song’s message. Lyrically, D’Angelo confronts the temptations that come with success — the “devil’s pie” — including greed, vanity, and indulgence. His delivery is soulful yet edgy, reflecting an inner battle between staying true to himself and succumbing to the darker sides of the industry. It’s a candid, unfiltered look at the price of fame, resonating with anyone who has ever struggled with maintaining integrity in a world that often rewards the opposite. More than just a great groove, “Devil’s Pie” is a statement — a powerful fusion of social commentary and masterful musicianship that proves D’Angelo is as much a thinker as he is a performer.
7. Sugah Daddy (2014)
“Sugah Daddy,” from D’Angelo’s 2014 comeback album Black Messiah, bursts with energy, swagger, and pure funk. From the opening moments, the song hooks you with a syncopated, off-kilter piano riff, backed by tight horns and a rhythm section that feels both chaotic and perfectly controlled. This track is playful and flirtatious, with D’Angelo embodying the role of a charismatic suitor offering sweet affection — and maybe a little mischief. His vocals dance around the beat, slipping between falsetto and gravelly growls, showing his unmatched command of vocal expression. The song’s complex grooves are heavily influenced by the funk legends of the past, like Parliament-Funkadelic and James Brown, yet it feels distinctly modern in its execution. “Sugah Daddy” is one of those tracks that makes it impossible to sit still — it’s made for moving, grooving, and feeling good. More than just a dance track, it reflects D’Angelo’s genius for blending deep musicianship with raw emotion. It’s funky, it’s fun, and it’s a shining example of how Black Messiah channels both the joy and the grit of real, lived-in soul music.
8. The Charade (2014)
“The Charade,” from Black Messiah, stands as one of D’Angelo’s most powerful and socially conscious works. This haunting, thought-provoking track directly addresses systemic racism, injustice, and the painful reality of being Black in America. Over a moody, hypnotic groove driven by a steady bass line and layered percussion, D’Angelo delivers lyrics that are both poetic and unapologetically direct: “All we wanted was a chance to talk / ‘Stead we only got outlined in chalk.” His falsetto carries the pain, frustration, and resilience of generations, while the swirling instrumentation creates an atmosphere of tension and urgency. Unlike his love songs, “The Charade” is confrontational in its truth-telling, asking listeners not to look away from the realities faced by marginalized communities. Yet, within its sorrow, there’s also strength — a sense of solidarity and the unbreakable will to fight for dignity and justice. The song’s raw honesty and emotional depth make it not only one of the standout moments on Black Messiah but also a timeless anthem for resistance and awareness, reflecting D’Angelo’s evolution as both an artist and an activist.
9. 1000 Deaths (2014)
“1000 Deaths,” another standout from Black Messiah, hits like a thunderclap — chaotic, urgent, and absolutely riveting. From the opening, the distorted bass, clashing drums, and fiery guitar riffs create a soundscape that feels almost militaristic, evoking the chaos and tension of battle. The song wrestles with themes of fear, violence, and spiritual reckoning, particularly focusing on what it means to live — and survive — as a Black person in a world filled with systemic oppression. D’Angelo’s vocals are submerged and distorted, as if intentionally buried beneath the noise, reflecting the way marginalized voices are often drowned out in society. The song samples a fiery sermon at its start, grounding the track in both spiritual and revolutionary fervor. “1000 Deaths” doesn’t offer comfort — it’s a confrontation, a demand to reckon with uncomfortable truths. Its experimental nature, blending funk, rock, and soul, pushes the boundaries of what R&B can be. The track stands as a bold testament to D’Angelo’s refusal to be boxed in artistically, proving that music can be both a form of personal expression and a tool for powerful social commentary.
10. Really Love (2014)
“Really Love” is the romantic heartbeat of Black Messiah, a lush, intoxicating ballad that envelops listeners in tenderness and vulnerability. Opening with a delicate Spanish guitar riff, the song slowly blossoms into a rich tapestry of strings, subtle percussion, and D’Angelo’s buttery-smooth falsetto. It’s a declaration of deep, all-consuming love, sung with a sincerity that feels almost sacred. His delivery is gentle yet passionate, expressing devotion and longing in every note. The production is immaculate — every instrument breathes, every space in the mix feels intentional, creating a sensual atmosphere that’s both timeless and deeply personal. “Really Love” stands apart because it’s not just about physical attraction; it’s about emotional intimacy, the kind of love that feels spiritual and transformative. The track was widely praised upon release, earning a Grammy Award for Best R&B Song, and remains one of the most beloved pieces in D’Angelo’s catalog. Its beauty lies in its simplicity and honesty, serving as a reminder that in a world full of chaos and noise, the purest expressions of love still have the power to captivate and heal.
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.
