5 Things to Know About Sade Adu

Sade Adu is the lead vocalist and namesake of the band Sade. She was born Helen Folasade Adu in Nigeria.

The band Sade is named after her, not the other way around. She is the only constant member and the face of the group.

Her full birth name is Helen Folasade Adu. She was born in Ibadan, Nigeria, and raised in England.

She is known for her distinctive, smooth contralto voice. Her vocal style defines the band’s sound.

Sade Adu is the sole songwriter for most of the band’s lyrics. She writes about love, loss, and longing with emotional depth.