Sade Adu – Your Love Is King
| Stage Name: | Sade Adu |
| Real Name: | Helen Folasade Adu |
| Occupation: | Musician |
| Date Of Birth/Age: | 16th January 1959 (65 years old) |
| State of Origin: | Ibadan State |
| Gender: | Female |
| Nationality: | Nigerian |
| Marital Status: | Late. Carlos Scola Pliego |
| Education: | Saint Martin’s School of Art in London |
| Known for: | Your Love Is King |
Helen Folasade Adu, renowned as Sade Adu, stands as a musical luminary, with her soulful voice and timeless compositions weaving a captivating narrative through the annals of contemporary music. Born on January 16, 1959, in Ibadan, Nigeria, she would go on to become the lead vocalist of the immensely successful band Sade, earning recognition as one of the most accomplished British female artists in history.
Early Life
Sade’s roots trace back to Nigeria, where she was born to Adebisi Adu and Anne Hayes. Her parents’ marriage, blending Nigerian and English heritage, eventually led them to the UK, settling in Colchester, Essex, when Sade was merely four years old. Despite her parents’ separation, Sade’s journey continued in England, where she navigated through childhood alongside her elder brother, Banji.
Educational Pursuits and Musical Genesis
Sade’s artistic journey began at Saint Martin’s School of Art in London, where she pursued a course in fashion design. While fashion initially held her attention, the allure of music soon beckoned. In the early ’80s, Sade’s musical odyssey commenced as she joined the band Pride, showcasing her versatility as a backup singer, fashioning a prelude to her illustrious career.
Formation of Sade
In 1983, the trajectory of Sade’s career shifted as she formed the band Sade, bringing together Stuart Matthewman, Andrew Hale, Paul Denman, and Paul Cook. A recording contract with Epic Records swiftly followed, setting the stage for a musical venture that would redefine the landscape of contemporary jazz and soul.
Diamond Life: A Dazzling Debut
The turning point arrived in 1984 with the release of the debut album, “Diamond Life.” This masterpiece catapulted Sade and her band to unprecedented heights, earning critical acclaim and commercial success. The lead single, “Your Love Is King,” resonated globally, solidifying Sade’s position as a captivating vocalist and an adept songwriter.
Triumphs and First Hiatus
Sade’s journey continued with the release of subsequent albums like “Promise” (1985), “Stronger Than Pride” (1988), and “Love Deluxe” (1992), each contributing to the band’s legacy. However, the birth of Sade’s child in 1996 marked a pause in their musical pursuits.
The band made a triumphant return in 2000 with “Lovers Rock,” showcasing a departure from their jazz-inspired roots towards mellower sounds and pop compositions. The album’s success marked a resurgence, proving the enduring appeal of Sade’s musical finesse.
Soldier of Love and Third Hiatus
A decade later, in 2010, Sade and her band released “Soldier of Love,” solidifying their place in music history. The album’s chart-topping success reflected the band’s resilience and ability to evolve while maintaining their distinct sound. The subsequent “Sade Live” tour in 2011 marked their return to the stage, captivating audiences worldwide.
A Glorious Return
The recent years have witnessed Sade’s return to the limelight with contributions to film soundtracks, including “Flower of the Universe” for Disney’s “A Wrinkle in Time” and “The Big Unknown” for Steve McQueen’s “Widows.” As anticipation builds for their seventh album, Sade and her band continue to shape the musical landscape.
Legacy and Influence
Sade’s influence extends far beyond her chart-topping hits. Her distinctive voice, described as a “grainy contralto full of air,” has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Recognized by the BBC for her soulful and jazzy yet pop-infused songwriting, Sade’s legacy is firmly established, earning her a place in the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2023.
Husband and Kids
Sade was married to Carlos Scola Pliego who sadly passed away in 1995. Her child, Izaak Theo Adu, publicly came out as a transgender man in 2016, a testament to Sade’s support and acceptance.
Honors and Accolades
Sade’s impact on music has not gone unnoticed. Her accolades include an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2002, followed by a Commander title in the 2017 Birthday Honors. Winning a Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 1986, she remains a trailblazer, exemplified by her induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2023.
Networth
Sade is a British singer, songwriter, and composer with a net worth of $40 million. Sade holds the title of the second-most successful solo female artist in British history, selling over 110 million albums globally. The only artist ahead of her is Dame Shirley Bassey, who has sold 140 million albums worldwide. You can find her on Instagram.