A Dip in Sade’s Magic
A subconscious and consistent role model during crucial development years of mine — the magnificent Sade. What makes her so incredible, almost magical? What differentiates her from all of the other singers of her time? What makes Helen Folasade Adu, known professionally as Sade Adu, incomparable? I’ll try my best to put it in a written context.
A little background on Sade’s Early Years
Born in Ibadan, Nigeria on January 16 — 1959, Sade spent her early years between Nigeria and the UK. Her love for singing began during her childhood when she sang in a local church choir. Later, she studied fashion design in London and formed a band under her name. Three of its members Paul Anthony Cooke, Stuart Mathewman, and Paul Spencer Denman were originally from Hull in the East Riding of Yorkshire. The band’s first album, “Diamond Life” was released in 1984 and was a huge commercial success, propelling Sade’s career as a musician.
Themes
A sophisticated blend of soul, funk, jazz, and Afro-Cuban rhythms — Sade’s songs have everything to give. Her music is characterized by its soothing and mellow sound, in combination with instruments one cannot fathom in the grand scheme of sound mixtures. Her songs often have a slow tempo and the band is known for their use of horns, strong bass, keyboards, and saxophones in their music which creates an incredibly rich sound. Her lyrics often deal with themes of love, relationships, and vulnerable emotion — Thus, upon playing Sade, you’re bound to create an intimate atmosphere. Transcending time and trends, her music stands popular with all audiences.
Style
Sade is known for her timeless and immensely elegant fashion style. She often opts for sophisticated and classic pieces that look both comfortable and chic. Her style is characterized by her love for oversized sunglasses and hats, which adds a touch of mystery to her look. Her wardrobe simply exudes elegance and femininity — which would amount to nothing if Sade did not put you in a trance with her magnetic and dazzling energy. The way she talks, walks, and dances are in perfect harmony with the way she represents herself through fashion.
What can we attribute to Sade’s Uniqueness
To me —the many themes she explores in the realm of human emotion. If we dive through the Love Deluxe & Soldier of Love Albums, there is a synergy present between destructive lust, shadows, and dying passion; as well as personal battles. Dark reigns, as witnessed in No Ordinary Love, Like a Tattoo, Bullet Proof Soul, Skin, Soldier of Love, and The Moon and the Sky. On the other hand, Lovers Rock & Diamond Life differ in style and tenderness — almost entirely. The above-mentioned themes can be there, however, one can deduce the spiritual lightness Sade emits in the latter. Her unique voice, powerful vocals, and textual expression have no parallel in the music industry.
Sade’s overall aesthetic makes one indulge entirely in what she has to offer. Her fashion sense, voice, way of singing, texts, image, and music videos all contribute to creating a distinct and unforgettable artist.
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