From the jazzy highs of “Smooth Operator” to the raw depth of “Soldier of Love,” these 20 essential songs by Sade Adu map her journey. Which is your favourite?
Sade, the British band fronted by the enigmatic British-Nigerian vocalist Sade Adu, has been enchanting audiences since the early 1980s with their unique blend of soul, jazz, and R&B. Their music, characterized by smooth melodies and heartfelt lyrics, has stood the test of time.
Sade’s influence remains undeniable in today’s music landscape, as her timeless sound continues to inspire new generations of artists. A notable example is Rema’s recent sampling of “Is It a Crime,” which proves that her music still resonates and shapes contemporary sounds.
Just in case you’re looking forward to a weekend of unwinding, here’s a look at 20 of her essential songs that might just do the trick:
1. No Ordinary Love
Released in September 1992, this track hit #28 on the US Hot 100 and won a Grammy for Best R&B Performance in ‘94. Its raspy melody and Sophie Muller-directed video—think Sade as a lovelorn mermaid—made it a standout. No Ordinary Love is a slow burn track, which sings about love that cuts deep.
2. Smooth Operator
Sade’s breakout, released in August 1984, climbed to #5 on the US Hot 100. Certified platinum in Denmark, it’s got that cool, jazzy edge and a video with a slick ‘80s crime vibe. Adu’s tale of a charming player still feels fresh.
3. The Sweetest Taboo
Out in October 1985, this one reached #5 on the US Hot 100 and topped the R&B chart. It’s pure quiet-storm bliss—smooth, sultry, and the lyrics depict pleasurable danger. The Brian Ward video adds a moody twist to its romantic pull.
4. Hang On to Your Love
Dropped in January 1985, “Hang On to Your Love” hit #11 in the UK. With its funky bassline and upbeat plea, it’s Sade urging us to hold tight. The video’s got that early ‘80s charm, matching her effortless groove.
5. By Your Side
Released in October 2000, this peaked at #14 in the UK and earned a Grammy nod. VH1 ranked it 48th on their greatest love songs list. It’s a song with a soft, steady promise—Sade at her most comforting.
6. Your Love Is King
A February 1984 single, “Your Love Is King” hit #54 on the US Hot 100 and went silver in the UK. Simple and soulful, it’s an early showcase of her knack for turning love into poetry. Will Young’s cover later nodded to its staying power.
7. Paradise
When “Paradise” dropped in February 1988, it reached #16 on the US Hot 100 and topped the R&B chart. The video’s Mexican village scenes pair perfectly with its laid-back, celebratory vibe. It’s Sade in paradise, literally.
8. Kiss of Life
Released in March 1993, “Kiss of Life” hit #78 on the US Hot 100. Shot in Miami by Albert Watson, the video matches its breezy, jazzy feel. It’s a love song that floats in the mind of lasting—light but lasting.
9. The Moon and the Sky
Not a single, but a gem from 2010’s ‘Soldier of Love’. It’s a quiet, aching ballad about love slipping away. Sade’s restraint here is what makes the song hit hard.
10. Lovers Rock
The title track from 2000 sets the album’s tone. With a reggae undertow, it’s about music as a lifeline. It reflects the portrayal of a simple, soulful, and classic Sade.
11. Soldier of Love
Dropped in December 2009, “Soldier of Love” peaked at #52 on the US Hot 100 and won a Grammy in 2011. After a 10-year break, this track was Sade’s impactful return—tough, tender, and cinematic.
12. Nothing Can Come Between Us
A July 1988 release, it hit #20 on the US Hot 100. “Nothing Can Come Between Us” is a funky and warm track, it’s a duet-like vow with the band’s backing vocals shining. It’s an underrated gem but one of Sade’s most appealing tunes.
13. Cherish the Day
“Cherish the Day” dropped in July 1993, it reached #21 in the UK. A minimal and soulful, it’s a fan favourite for its slow-build intensity. The Albert Watson video emphasizes the real and raw essence of the track.
14. Never as Good as the First Time
Released in October 1985,” “Never as Good as the First Time” is an upbeat tune with a bittersweet edge, its horse-riding video adds a quirky touch. Sade reflects on fleeting highs with this track.
15. Is It a Crime?
A March 1986 single, “Is It a Crime” peaked at #55 on the US Hot 100. Smooth and mid-tempo, this track holds a question wrapped in longing. Rema recently sampled this classic for his “Baby (Is It a Crime)”
16. King of Sorrow
Released in March 2001, “King of Sorrow” was filmed in Puerto Rico by Sophie Muller, Sade sing about heavy heartbreak. Sade’s voice carries the weight of this song effortlessly.
17. Jezebel
Not a single, but a standout from ‘92. “Jezebel” tells a story of a woman’s struggles, told with empathy and grace. Sade’s delivery makes it an unforgettable track, stamped as an essential of her catalogue.
18. Like a Tattoo
Another non-single from 1992, this one’s a quiet, melodic confession. It’s personal—Sade baring scars with a voice that soothes as it stings.
19. Pearls
“Pearls” dropped in May 1993, peaking at #24 in the UK. It is a tender take on hardship, with a social edge rare for Sade.
20. Be That Easy
“Be That Easy” is a late-career highlight from 2010. It’s an introspective song, wrestling with love’s complexities. Sade keeps it real in this song, adding no frills to it.
