💿 When words fall short, music steps in. In this new monthly section of the Weekend Edition, we will be shining the spotlight on an album or artist who has shaped or enriched the musical landscape as we know it. From pop and soul to blues and rock, Now Playing will explore global tunes to recommend the next soundtrack to your weekend.

A Nigerian-English soul icon: With distinctive warm vocals and commanding stage presence, Helen Folasade Adu — better known as Sade — introduced a fresh perspective and unmistakable identity to the international music scene. This singer-songwriter achieved remarkable popularity among western audiences between the 80s and early noughties. She carved out her niche in soul music through signature smooth melodies and thoughtful lyrics, which have recently found new life on social media platforms among a new generation of listeners.

Following a stint as a fashion model and backup vocalist for UK band Pride, Sade launched her solo career with Diamond Life in 1984. The album featured one of her most popular songs to date, Smooth Operator, which now features in many a content creator’s video over three decades later. Diamond Life seamlessly blended pop, soul, and jazz elements — genres that perfectly showcased her rich, velvety voice. Upon release, the album achieved significant commercial success and earned critical acclaim in the UK, earning her a reputation as a formidable new talent.

Sade’s star rose quickly and steadily. She earned a Grammy for Best New Artist in 1986, the first of four Grammy awards across six studio albums. Her most recent came in 2011 for Best R&B Performance thanks to Soldier of Love. Sade and her band established themselves as masters of soul and soft jazz, creating a lasting impact with tracks like Kiss of Life, Is it a Crime, and No Ordinary Love.

As younger audiences gravitate towards Sade’s music, they’ve also started co-opting her timeless aesthetic, cementing her status as a style icon whose influence extends well beyond music. Sade’s catalog offers a rich listening experience, particularly suited for jazz enthusiasts and anyone seeking melodic sophistication and heartfelt lyricism — the perfect accompaniment to upcoming autumn or winter evenings in.

WHERE TO LISTEN- You can find Sade’s discography on Spotify | Anghami | YouTubeMusic | Deezer | Apple Music.

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