This week on pplpod, we explore the mysterious allure and enduring career of Helen Folasade Adu, known to the world simply as Sade. Born in Nigeria and raised in Essex, England, Sade transitioned from a fashion student and model into one of the most successful British female artists in history. We discuss how her band’s 1984 debut, Diamond Life, became the best-selling debut ever by a British female vocalist, launching global hits like "Smooth Operator" and "Your Love Is King".

Join us as we break down the key elements of the Sade mystique:

• The Voice: We analyze her "husky and restrained" contralto—a voice described as having a "deeply English" quality that values dignity over the show of pain.

• The Art of the Hiatus: Sade is famous for disappearing from the spotlight. We lo ...