There are voices, and then there is Sade. A voice like warm honey poured over ice, like a whisper carried on the wind, like the kind of love that lingers long after it’s gone. Her music isn’t just heard—it’s felt. It wraps around you, sinks into your skin, and stays there, timeless and untouchable.
For nearly four decades, Sade Adu has remained an enigma—a star who never chases the spotlight, yet it trails her. While others clamor for attention, she retreats into the quiet, appearing only when she has something worth saying. No gimmicks, no oversharing, no desperate need to stay relevant. And yet, she always is.
Now, with Gen Z falling under her spell—thanks to Rema’s recent sampling of Is It a Crime—it’s time to pull back the curtain on the woman behind the mystique. Because Sade isn’t just an artist—she’s a movement, a mood, a whole aesthetic. And if you’re just discovering her, congratulations. You’ve just unlocked a new level of musical excellence.
Here are 10 things you should know about the one and only Sade. Prepare to be obsessed.
1. Sade Was Almost a Fashion Designer (Music Was Her Side Hustle?!)
Before she became the queen of smooth R&B, Sade was actually a fashion design student at Central Saint Martins, one of the most prestigious art schools in the UK.
She specialized in menswear and could have had a whole career designing suits instead of wearing them.
She only started singing as a favor to friends in a London band (she literally didn’t care about music at first).
2. She Rejected a Major Record Deal at First—Because They Didn’t Want Her Band
Most artists sell their soul for a record deal. Sade? She said “Nah, I’m good.“
In the early ‘80s, record labels were desperate to sign her—but only her. They didn’t want her bandmates (Yes!, Sade is actually a band). Sade refused the deal unless her band got signed too. She could have gone solo—but loyalty meant more than fame.
She eventually signed with Epic Records on her own terms—and brought the band along. Day 1 loyalty.
3. She Lived Through a Military Coup in Nigeria as a Baby
Sade’s early life was far from glamorous. She was born in Ibadan, Nigeria, in 1959. A military coup broke out in Nigeria when she was just four years old.
Her British mother fled the country with Sade and her brother, moving them to England.
This early chaos shaped Sade’s deeply private nature—she saw instability firsthand and learned early on that peace is priceless.
4. Tupac’s Last Words About Music? “Sade’s the Truth.”
Here’s a crazy piece of music history: In 1996, just months before his death, Tupac Shakur was in an interview talking about his favorite artists. His exact words: “I love Sade. Sade’s the truth.” Pac, the hardest rapper of his time, was vibing to “No Ordinary Love”.
Tupac was known for his raw, poetic energy—and even he recognized that Sade’s music hit different.
5. Sade Has a Trans Son, and She’s His Biggest Supporter
Sade isn’t just a music icon—she’s a proud, loving mom. She has a son, Izaak Theo Adu, born in 1996. Izaak came out as transgender in 2016 and has spoken openly about his transition journey. Sade has been his rock, standing by him through surgeries, recovery, and self-discovery.
In 2019, Izaak posted a heartfelt message:
“Thank you for staying by my side when the storm was too heavy to bear. Thank you for fighting with me to complete the man I am.”
Infact, Sade’s latest release after a lasting hiatus ‘Young Lion’ was dedicated to Theo.
6. She’s One of the Best-Selling Female Artists of All Time (Without Trying Too Hard)
Sade has sold over 75 million records worldwide. That’s more than some of today’s biggest pop stars—without needing viral TikTok trends, elaborate promo, or thirst traps. Her music sells itself.
7. She Dropped Her First Album in 1984… and It Still Hits
Her debut album, Diamond Life (1984), gave us Smooth Operator and Your Love Is King—songs so timeless they could drop today and still slap. This album alone sold over 10 million copies, proving that good music never ages.
8. She Refused to Move to Hollywood—Because She Hates the Fame Game
Despite being one of the biggest stars in the world, Sade never left England for Hollywood. No fancy LA mansions, No paparazzi drama, No need for clout.
Instead, she lives in the countryside, gardening, painting, and chilling with her dogs. When asked why she doesn’t chase fame, she once said:“I just like my own company.”
Sade said no to Hollywood and yes to peace of mind.
9. She Disappears for Years—Then Comes Back and Dominates the Charts
The music industry forgets artists who take long breaks. But Sade? She can disappear for a whole decade and still top charts like she never left.
Lovers Rock (2000) – 8 years after her last album, still won a Grammy. Soldier of Love (2010) – 10 years later, debuted at #1 with no promo. Hasn’t dropped an album since 2010, and fans are still waiting.
No social media. No viral stunts. Just pure, timeless talent.
10. Even in 2025, She’s Still That Girl
From Rema sampling her song to newer artists crediting her as an influence, Sade’s impact isn’t fading anytime soon. If you’re just now discovering her, consider this your official invite into the cult of Sade.
If you’re just tapping into Sade’s music, you’re in for a soulful, cinematic, mood-setting experience. Start with Love Deluxe, Stronger Than Pride, or Diamond Life—and prepare to fall in love.
Once you’re hooked, don’t say we didn’t warn you. 😉
