Written by Giavanna Foster

Today is Sade’s birthday, and ARTSNLA is taking a closer look into her timeless legacy as a musician, singer, and trendsetter. Here’s the scoop:

Sade is a multi-Grammy winning artist, as she has received GRAMMYs for the following categories: Best New Artist, Best Pop Vocal Album (Lovers Rock), Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals (Soldier of Love), and Best R&B performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. Also, all of Sade’s albums are platinum-certified by the RIAA: Diamond Life, Promise, Love Deluxe, and Love Deluxe (4x platinum); Stronger than Pride, Lovers Rock, (3x Platinum), and Soldier of Love (platinum). In addition, Diamond Life became one of the best-selling albums and best-selling debut albums recorded by a female vocalist.

As of 2022, Sade’s outstanding career has spans thirty-eight years and six multi-platinum albums. She has gained an international fanbase with her universally relatable music that transcends genres, captivating stage presence as a live performer and her unique, modelesque style. Also, Sade is an international trendsetter with her minimalistic signature looks and elegant flair. One of her main signature looks is red lipstick and gold hoops. She has also worn denim-on-denim, power suits, leather gloves, and more…

Sade has made history as a guitarist, vocalist, and icon. Sade is the first Nigerian artist to receive a Grammy Award. She has also received an American Music Award, Brit Award, and two ASCAP Pop Music Awards (for “Smooth Operator”, “The Sweetest Taboo”). Eventually, she was appointed to Commander of the same Order in the 2017 Birthday Honours. Sade landed in the Top 10 of Billboard‘s “Top 25 Tours” because of the Sade Live tour. Sade’s “By Your Side” landed in VH1’s 100 Greatest Love Songs list.

“I only make records when I feel I have something to say. I’m not interested in releasing music just for the sake of selling something. Sade is not a brand,” Sade Adu voiced.