For almost nine years Sade has not released an album until now. Her recent album debuted on the Billboard 200 at #1. It was her fist number one debut in the U.S. Since 1983 she’s had numerous hit singles and albums throughout most of her long musical career. There is no mistaking her unique sultry voice and striking beauty when you hear Sade. With over 50 million albums sold she is Britain’s most successful solo female artist. Born in Nigeria and raised in England Sade is now a member of the Order of the British Empire. Its abbreviated title, OBE, follows after her name. With all the hit songs to her collection here are the top ten songs by Sade.
10.) Soldier of Love (2009)
Welcome to the age of digital music since Sade has not released any new music in nearly a decade. The song was featured as a promo for the last season of Lost. It is the lead single from the same titled album that was released in December 2009. In January 2010 it made its digital debut on iTunes. Soldier of Love has received positive reviews from music critics. Some call it “classic Sade, which I tend to agree. Her voice is a lot deeper, richer, and melodious. Welcome back Sade.
9.) By Your Side (2000)
Obviously a big hit on Billboard’s Hot Dance Club Play peaking all the way to #2 it’s still popular at wedding receptions as a first dance song for couples. It was also featured in an episode of HBO’s “Sex and the City.” By Your Side was nominated for a Grammy.
8.) Kiss of Life (1993)
A minor hit on the Billboard Hot 100, however, it was Sade’s seventh top ten hit on the R&B; charts peaking at #10.
7.) No Ordinary Love (1992)
It is considered one of her signatures songs, which showcases her trademark sultry voice. The song has been covered by various artists in many genres. You can hear No Ordinary Love quite prominently in the film “Indecent Proposal”. Another one of Sade’s top ten hits on the R&B; charts where it reached at #9.
6.) Your Love is King (1985)
Many of Sade’s songs have found great success on the Adult Contemporary (AC) chart. This one is no exception where it reached at #8. Her alto voice is very prominent throughout Your Love is King. That is what sets Sade apart from virtually all the other singers on the radio
5.) Paradise (1988)
Another one of Sade’s signature songs it reached #1 on the R&B; chart and at #3 on Adult Contemporary. It was also a very popular song on the dance charts too. There is a lot of great percussion heard throughout.
4.) Never As Good As the First Time (1986)
Here is a song that’s been a main staple on smooth jazz radio stations. The one in my local area always play Sade, which inspired me to write this top ten songs music article. A unique feature in is the steady beat of a cowbell. I can’t help but think of that classic SNL sketch where the catchphrase “we need more cowbell” is emphasized repeatedly. However, it works perfectly into this song. Never as Good as the First Time was another top ten hit on the AC chart peaking at #6.
3.) Is It A Crime (1986)
This is my favorite Sade song out of them all. It is by far her most passionate and emotional vocal interpretation. I found it odd that the song did not rise very high on any of the charts: AC, R&B;, Dance Club, or Hot 100. It is a song they play all time on my smooth jazz station. Perhaps many felt it was not a perfectly pitched performance by Sade. That is why I love the song. She really gives it her all. One of my favorite lyrics is “my love is wider than Victoria Lake.” Later on she references her love also being taller then the Empire State, which I know is a building. I’m not familiar with Victoria Lake, but I’ll take Sade’s word that it is wide.
2.) The Sweetest Taboo (1985)
Without question one of Sade’s biggest hits ever. It was #1 on the AC, #3 on the R&B; and #5 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts. The Sweetest Taboo received heavy radio play when it was first relased and is still played frequently on AC stations across the country.
1.) Smooth Operator (1985)
Her accent is so beautiful when she speaks in the song. The intro features a very sexy saxophone. Smooth Operator is Sade’s break-though hit single. It is one of her three signature songs. On the AC chart it was at #1, whereas on the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B; charts it was a top 5 hit reaching at #5. It has been covered by various international artists from a variety of music genres. The song still gets plenty of radio play. It is one of those timeless songs that will never grow old or become out of date.
Be sure to check out Sade’s new album and single Soldier of Love as well as her other great songs that have been featured at www.amazon.com or www.iTunes.com for downloads or hard copies. Once you listen to the voice of Sade you’ll find yourself completely captivated by her voice.
SOURCES:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sade_Adu
