The 10 best Dangelo songs of all time

D’Angelo, whose full name is Michael Eugene Archer, is an American singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and record producer. He is known for his soulful voice, innovative musical style, and contributions to the neo-soul genre. D’Angelo rose to prominence in the mid-1990s with his debut album, Brown Sugar (1995), which blended elements of R&B, funk, and soul.

His second album, Voodoo (2000), further cemented his reputation as a pioneer of neo-soul music and featured complex rhythms, rich instrumentation and introspective lyrics. The album received critical acclaim and won several Grammy Awards, including Best R&B Album.

D’Angelo’s music is characterized by authenticity, emotional depth, and musical complexity. He has been praised for his vocal range, songwriting skills, and ability to blend traditional soul with modern influences. Despite several hiatuses in the music industry, D’Angelo’s influence on contemporary R&B and soul music remains significant, and his work continues to inspire artists and listeners alike.

1. Untitled (How does it feel)

“Untitled (How Does It Feel)” is a song by D’Angelo, released on January 1, 2000, as the second single from his critically acclaimed album Voodoo. The track is a sensual, soulful R&B ballad that showcases D’Angelo’s smooth vocals and deep emotional delivery. Written and produced by D’Angelo and Raphael Saadiq, the song features lush instrumentation and a slow, groove-oriented rhythm. The music video, directed by Paul Hunter, is known for its minimalist, intimate approach and features D’Angelo shirtless during his performance, adding to its sensual appeal. Celebrated for its raw, passionate expression, “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” remains one of D’Angelo’s best known songs.

2. Brown sugar

“Brown Sugar” is the debut single by D’Angelo, released on June 13, 1995, from his debut album of the same name. Blending influences from neo-soul, R&B, and hip hop, the song showcases D’Angelo’s smooth vocals and sophisticated musical style. With its jazzy groove, lush production, and lyrics that cleverly use “brown sugar” as a metaphor for a romantic interest, the track became an instant hit. “Brown Sugar” received critical acclaim for its innovative sound and contributed to the neo-soul revival in the 1990s. The song’s success helped establish D’Angelo as a leading figure in contemporary R&B and neo-soul music.

3. Queen

“Lady” is a song by D’Angelo, featured on his 1995 debut album, Brown Sugar. The track became one of his signature songs and is celebrated for its smooth and seductive groove that showcases D’Angelo’s soulful vocals and neo-soul style. Lyrically, “Lady” expresses admiration and desire for a woman, with D’Angelo’s passionate delivery adding to the song’s sensual appeal. The track’s infectious rhythm and musicality contributed to its popularity and cemented D’Angelo’s reputation as a prominent figure in the 1990s neo-soul movement.

4. Devil’s Cake

“Devil’s Pie” is a song by D’Angelo, released in 1998 as part of the soundtrack to the film Belly, and later included on his critically acclaimed second studio album Voodoo (2000). Produced by DJ Premier, the track features a raw, minimalist beat and deals with themes of temptation, corruption, and the moral complexities of life in the music industry and society in general. D’Angelo’s raw, soulful delivery and introspective lyrics make “Devil’s Pie” a standout track. The song’s mix of hip hop and neo soul elements highlights D’Angelo’s versatility as an artist and his willingness to tackle deep, thought-provoking themes.

5. Cruising

“Cruisin'” is a song originally written and recorded by Smokey Robinson for his 1979 album “Where There’s Smoke…” It is a soft and romantic R&B ballad that became one of Robinson’s best known songs. The song was later covered by D’Angelo in 1995 for the soundtrack of the film “Jason’s Lyric.” D’Angelo’s version of “Cruisin'” retained the soulful essence of the original but added his own modern R&B twist, showcasing his smooth vocals and musicianship. D’Angelo’s rendition of “Cruisin'” became a hit and introduced the song to a new generation of listeners, further cementing its status as a classic love ballad.

6. Send it on

“Send It On” is a song by D’Angelo, featured on his 2000 album Voodoo. Known for its lavish production and soulful mood, “Send It On” showcases D’Angelo’s unique blend of funk, R&B, and soul influences. The song features lush instrumentation, including smooth guitar riffs and a hypnotic rhythm section that complements D’Angelo’s soulful vocals.

Lyrically, “Send It On” deals with themes of love, desire, and connection. D’Angelo’s lyrics convey a longing for emotional and physical intimacy, with the song’s sensual melodies and rhythmic grooves enhancing its romantic atmosphere.

Praised for its musical complexity and D’Angelo’s artistic vision, “Send It On” highlights his ability to innovate within the R&B genre. The song remains a fan favorite and a standout track on the “Voodoo” album, adding to D’Angelo’s reputation as a visionary artist in contemporary soul and R&B music.

7. Left and right

“Left & Right” is a song by D’Angelo featuring Method Man and Redman, released in 1999 as part of his second studio album, Voodoo. The track blends D’Angelo’s signature neo-soul style with hip hop, featuring a funky groove and smooth, laid-back vocals. Method Man and Redman contribute dynamic rap verses that add a contrasting touch to the song. “Left & Right” tackles themes of sensuality and attraction, while maintaining the album’s overall sultry and introspective mood. The collaboration highlights D’Angelo’s ability to seamlessly integrate different genres and create a unique and captivating sound.

8. Unshakeable

“Unshaken” is a song by D’Angelo featured on the soundtrack of the 2018 video game Red Dead Redemption 2. The song features D’Angelo’s soulful vocals over a stripped-down acoustic guitar accompaniment, creating a haunting and introspective atmosphere.

Lyrically, “Unshaken” reflects themes of resilience, perseverance, and inner strength in the face of adversity. The lyrics convey a sense of fortitude and determination, with D’Angelo’s emotional delivery adding depth to the song’s introspective mood.

“Unshaken” gained attention through its use in the critically acclaimed video game Red Dead Redemption 2, where it serves as a poignant backdrop to the game’s narrative and atmospheric world. The song resonated with fans of D’Angelo and the game alike, showcasing his ability to evoke emotion and capture themes of perseverance and reflection through his music.

9. Lust for love

“Feel Like Makin’ Love” is a cover by D’Angelo, originally a classic soul song by Roberta Flack released in 1974. D’Angelo’s version appeared on his 2000 album Voodoo. His interpretation pays homage to the original while giving it his distinctive neo-soul style. The track features a relaxed, intimate vibe with lush instrumentation and D’Angelo’s smooth, soulful vocals. Known for its sensual and romantic lyrics, in D’Angelo’s hands “Feel Like Makin’ Love” becomes a deep, groove-laden experience that exemplifies his talent for reinterpreting classic soul with a modern yet timeless feel.

10. Spanish Restaurant

“Spanish Joint” is a song by D’Angelo, featured on his 2000 album “Voodoo.” The track is celebrated for its blend of soul, funk and Latin influences, and showcases D’Angelo’s innovative approach to R&B music.

Musically, “Spanish Joint” is characterized by its infectious groove, sophisticated percussion, and lively horn arrangements. The song’s dynamic rhythm section, paired with D’Angelo’s smooth vocals and melodic hooks, creates an energetic and danceable atmosphere.

Lyrically, “Spanish Joint” deals with passion, romance, and cultural appreciation. D’Angelo’s lyrics convey a sense of allure and sensuality, with the rhythmic intensity of the song enhancing its lively and celebratory mood.

“Spanish Joint” was praised for its musical complexity and D’Angelo’s ability to seamlessly blend different musical genres. It remains a standout track on the Voodoo album, showcasing D’Angelo’s artistic vision and contributing to his reputation as a groundbreaking artist in contemporary R&B and soul music.

Edward Tomlin is a frequent collaborator with Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us on social media below.