Sade, born Helen Folasade Adu on January 16, 1959, is a British-Nigerian singer, songwriter, and composer who has enchanted audiences with her smooth vocals, elegant style, and soulful melodies. With her unique blend of jazz, R&B, and pop, Sade has created a distinct sound that has captivated fans worldwide.
Sade first rose to prominence in the early 1980s with the band that shares her name, Sade. The group, consisting of Sade Adu as the lead vocalist, achieved international success with their debut album, “Diamond Life” (1984), which included the hit singles “Smooth Operator” and “Your Love Is King.” Sade’s rich, velvety voice and the band’s sophisticated musical arrangements garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated following.
Throughout her career, Sade has continued to deliver captivating music, releasing a series of critically acclaimed albums, including “Promise” (1985), “Stronger Than Pride” (1988), and “Lovers Rock” (2000). Her music is characterized by its smooth, laid-back rhythms, poetic lyrics, and the emotional depth conveyed through her mesmerizing vocals.
Despite maintaining a relatively low public profile, Sade’s influence on contemporary music is undeniable. Her timeless songs have resonated with generations of listeners, and her soulful sound has inspired countless artists across various genres.
With her effortless blend of elegance, talent, and authenticity, Sade has solidified her status as a true music icon. Her soothing voice and heartfelt compositions continue to enchant fans, making her a beloved figure in the music industry. Sade’s enduring legacy as an influential and talented artist remains as strong today as ever.
1. Smooth Operator
With a voice as smooth as butter, this 1984 classic by Sade is still an all-time favorite. The song blends various music genres such as rhythm and blues, jazz, and soul. In addition to the velvety vocals, the saxophone interlude adds a touch of jazzy elegance.
| Song | Released | Genre |
| Smooth Operator | 1984 | R&B, Jazz, Soul |
In this track, Sade sings about a charming man who knows how to get what he wants from women. It's one of those rare songs that captivates you from the first listen due to its intoxicating beats and enchanting vocals.
For those who haven't listened to "The Sweetest Taboo," it's another Sade classic that must be on your playlist. Its sultry melody coupled with Sade's soulful voice can cast a spell on listeners that draws them in.
As you listen to "Jezebel," notice how well-written the lyrics are and how Sade brings them to life with her understated yet powerful delivery. Her use of metaphors is both intriguing and captivating.
If you're looking for something more upbeat yet equally mesmerizing, give "Kiss of Life" a try. A romantic tune with intriguing percussion elements that adds layers of mystery.
For fans who love her live performances, "Is It A Crime?" recorded at Montreux Jazz Festival in 1984 showcases her prowess as a live performer.
Adding these top ten best Sade songs to your music playlist is undoubtedly going to enhance your listening experience and leave you wanting more.
Warning: listening to 'Sweetest Taboo' may cause a sudden urge to slow-dance with an imaginary partner.
2. Sweetest Taboo
This Sade classic, with its irresistible hook and haunting melody, remains one of the most beloved songs in her repertoire. The enigmatic lyrics, which suggest a forbidden love affair, only add to its allure. The smooth yet soulful vocals combined with the delicate guitar riffs give The Sweetest Taboo it's signature sound that is instantly recognizable.
As one of Sade's biggest hits, The Sweetest Taboo perfectly showcases her ability to create timeless music that transcends genres. It has been covered by numerous artists over the years and used in various films and TV shows, solidifying its place as a cultural staple.
What sets this song apart from others is how effortlessly it captures the raw emotions of desire and longing. It's no wonder that The Sweetest Taboo has become a romantic anthem for many couples around the world.
If you haven't had the pleasure of listening to this masterpiece of a song yet, don't miss out on experiencing one of the best tracks in Sade's collection. You won't regret indulging in The Sweetest Taboo.
I can't promise this song will fix your broken heart, but it'll at least give you four minutes to ugly cry in peace.
3. No Ordinary Love
This Sade classic is a soulful ode to a love that surpasses ordinary expectations. With its emotive lyrics and haunting melody, the song captures the essence of an enduring romance that exceeds typical boundaries. 'No Ordinary Love' showcases Sade's vocal prowess, backed by rich instrumentation that fuses jazz, soul, and R&B influences. The song's passionate delivery resonates with listeners across generations, making it a timeless masterpiece in Sade's discography.
As one of the standout tracks from her album 'Love Deluxe,' 'No Ordinary Love' has been widely celebrated for its emotional depth and soaring melody. The song's powerful chorus and intricate arrangement highlight Sade's versatility as an artist, while its introspective themes offer a heartfelt message about the complexities of love. From its lush production to its evocative lyrics, 'No Ordinary Love' captures the essence of Sade's signature style, creating a lasting impact on fans and critics alike.
What sets this track apart is its ability to convey raw emotion without losing its elegance or sophistication. Throughout the song, Sade's vocals rise and fall in perfect harmony with the music, creating a captivating sonic landscape that invites listeners on a journey of discovery. From start to finish, 'No Ordinary Love' is a masterpiece of musical storytelling that continues to inspire and move audiences everywhere.
For those who want to experience the magic of 'No Ordinary Love' for themselves, we recommend listening closely to each element of the song, from the entrancing drumbeat to the soaring saxophone solos. Take time to appreciate how each instrument blends seamlessly together to create an unforgettable musical experience. Whether you're looking for inspiration or just want to enjoy some great music, you won't go wrong with 'No Ordinary Love'.
Listening to 'Your Love Is King' may have you feeling like royalty, but let's face it, most of us are more like the court jester in our own love lives.
4. Your Love Is King
This track oozes romance with Sade's signature sax riff blending seamlessly with her breathy vocals. 'Your Love Is King' captivates listeners with its sensual lyrics and catchy chorus that has become a fan favourite for over three decades. Its infectious vibes transport you to an era of pure danceable elation where your body is moved by the music. This song highlights Sade's unique ability to craft timeless classics that transcend generations, solidifying her as a force in modern-day soul music.
Is listening to Sade on repeat a crime? Asking for a friend who can't stop grooving to this sultry jam.
5. Is It a Crime?
Sade's captivating vocals and soulful melodies shine in the timeless track known as '5. Is It a Crime?'. This classic is defined by its smooth arrangement and poetic lyrics, which explore the depths of emotional bonds. The song's crisp instrumentation complements Sade's powerful voice, leading to an unforgettable listening experience.
The distinct passion conveyed throughout '5. Is It a Crime?' provides a sense of intimacy that resonates with listeners around the world. Embrace the magic of this masterpiece, as it stands out as one of Sade's best songs.
It is worth noting that '5. Is It a Crime?' was released on Sade's second studio album, 'Promise', which debuted in 1985.
A true fact to note is that this album went double platinum and secured number one spots in both Switzerland and the UK charts.
When it comes to baby daddies, Sade's got a whole playlist devoted to them.
6. Babyfather
This track explores themes of strong familial bonds and offers a nuanced examination of fatherhood. With Sade's sultry vocals backed by synths and subtle percussion, "Babyfather" is one of the standout tracks from her 2010 album Soldier of Love. Its smooth groove is punctuated by an unexpected horn section, making for a dynamic listening experience. The lyrics paint a picture of a loving family man who puts his children first, making it an easy fan favorite.
Babyfather was released as the lead single from Soldier of Love despite being the sixth track on the album and bearing no apparent significance to its placement. This choice paid off – it peaked at number 57 on the UK Singles Chart and was a mainstay on adult contemporary radio in the US.
Even if you're 'By Yourself', Sade's powerful vocals will make you feel like you have a loyal companion by your side.
7. By Your Side
This track is a remarkable example of Sade's skillful storytelling.
- The song speaks of the unwavering and unconditional love that endures through thick and thin.
- Its instrumentation is gentle, with soft guitar strums and soothing saxophone melodies that match the tender lyrics.
- "By Your Side" was a commercial success, with its wide appeal bringing it to the mainstream.
- On top of that, its music video featured stunning imagery of surreal seascapes and synchronized swimmers performing elegant choreography.
In addition to being one of Sade's finest works stylistically, "By Your Side" showcases an emotional depth that sets it apart from other love songs. Its touching lyrics ("Dark days are over / No longer weak when I'm close to you") are capable of warming even the coldest hearts.
Don't miss out on this soulful track – give "By Your Side" a listen and experience the timeless magic of Sade's music.
Cherish The Day, unless you're waiting for a new Sade album, then cherish every moment while you can.
8. Cherish The Day
This song is one of the most iconic pieces by Sade. It's known for its soulful and romantic lyrics, which captures the ecstasy of cherishing each day with your loved one. The smooth and silky vocals combined with the captivating instrumental arrangement provides an unforgettable listening experience that transcends time. 'Cherish The Day' serves as a reminder to hold onto precious moments and appreciate them to their fullest potential.
As you listen to this track, it's easy to connect with the emotions delivered by Sade. Cherish The Day is not just a song but a journey through euphoria that evokes love, happiness and gratitude. Fans of Sade can attest to its timeless appeal that ranks among some of the best songs ever created.
It's worth noting that this track has been sampled numerous times, which solidifies its place as a staple in popular music culture deeply ingrained in our collective memory.
For those yet to experience it, we highly recommend taking the time out and allowing yourself to be captivated by Cherish The Day's sweet melodies. Your emotional well-being will thank you as it elevates your mood while invoking emotions of love and appreciation towards life.
Listen carefully, immerse yourself into the song slowly and let yourself drown in its mesmerizing melody and grasp why this classic masterpiece continues capturing hearts worldwide decades after its release.
Sade's 'Kiss of Life' will make you feel like you're floating on a cloud, or at least like you're not the only one drowning in your feelings.
9. Kiss of Life
This Sade hit is a masterpiece. 'Kiss of Life' excels with its love-laden lyrics and beautiful, soothing melody that has the power to transport listeners into a world of blissful escape. The song's unique blend of soul, R&B, and jazz influences gives it an unparalleled sound that stands the test of time. It's no wonder this track remains one of Sade's most beloved tunes to date.
The sensational vocals and alluring instrumentals found in 'Kiss of Life' make it impossible not to sway along. Each note hits perfectly alongside the next, leaping from gentle crescendos to powerful climaxes without missing a beat. Exquisitely balanced in every way, it leaves behind an unforgettable listening experience for all who have had the pleasure of hearing it.
One striking feature that sets 'Kiss of Life' apart from other tracks is its ability to elicit deep emotions within listeners. With each listen, waves of warmth and tenderness cascade over your heart – something you might not expect from just any other love song. This gift makes it a go-to choice for those looking to stir up positive feelings and soothe their souls at any time.
If you are feeling low or want something calming to listen to before bed, try playing 'Kiss of Life'. It can serve as your perfect relaxing companion! The mellow beats help regulate breathing while the soft vocal tones massage away stress building tension within your body. You will find yourself slipping into serenity in no time!
Listening to 'Paradise' feels like being wrapped in a velvet blanket by a lover on a chilly winter night – cozy, sensual, and unforgettable.
10. Paradise
Sade's timeless music is still adored by fans worldwide. Among her top 10 hits, there lies an exquisite masterpiece called 'The Land of Eternal Happiness.' Sade's soul-stirring voice and poetic lyrics depict the beauty of escaping to a paradise where all pain and suffering cease to exist. The track exudes a lush blend of jazz and R&B elements that leave listeners encapsulated in euphoria.
Her velvety voice guides the listener through captivating verses, "In your arms, tranquillity swells. Wrestling past ideals into paradise." The song's instrumentation takes the listener on a journey, featuring smooth drum beats, enchanting saxophone melodies, and soothing guitar chords. Overall, 'The Land of Eternal Happiness' is an ode to utopia, embodying Sade's signature sound – sensual and introspective.
What sets this song apart from her other hits is its deeper meaning. It reflects Sade's spiritual side while delivering profound messages about seeking happiness within oneself instead of external factors. This rare insight into the artist's thought process is what makes it stand out amongst her extensive discography.
Legend has it that the inspiration for this track was drawn from Sade's life-long love for meditation and inward reflection. She found solace in imagining a perfect world where worries and anxiety fade away – a concept she believed held immense power in transforming one's reality.
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.
