The Iconic Sade Adu Turns 67
Internationally acclaimed singer Helen Folasade Adu, known professionally as Sade, is celebrating her
67th birthday. Born on January 16, 1959, in Ibadan, Nigeria, Sade has established herself as one of
the most influential musical artists of her generation.
Sade’s journey to global prominence began after her family relocated to England during her childhood.
She rose to fame in the early 1980s as the lead vocalist of the band Sade, blending soul, jazz, R&B and
sophisti-pop to create a signature sound that resonated with audiences worldwide.
Her debut album, Diamond Life, released in 1984, was a breakthrough success, topping charts and
garnering critical acclaim. It produced enduring hits such as Smooth Operator and Your Love Is King.
In 1986, Sade made history when she won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist, becoming the first
Nigerian-born artist to win a Grammy Award. That achievement marked a significant milestone for
African artists in the global music industry.
Over the course of her career, Sade and her band have won multiple Grammy Awards and sold tens of
millions of records worldwide. Her music, noted for its emotional depth and timeless quality, has
influenced countless artists and continues to attract new generations of listeners.
Beyond her musical achievements, Sade’s contributions have been recognised formally: she was
appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2002 and later Commander of the Order of
the British Empire (CBE) in 2017 for her services to music.
As she marks her 67th birthday, tributes from fans, fellow artists, and cultural commentators highlight
Sade’s enduring beauty, artistic integrity, and the quiet yet profound impact she has had on popular
music around the world.
By Oyinkansola Shittu.
