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Dive Into the Sounds of Nao, MF DOOM, and Sade

Dive Into the Sounds of Nao, MF DOOM, and Sade

Morning Energy, Afternoon Intrigue, and Evening Serenity: Your Perfect Day in Music

Never Twice
August 12, 2024

From Left to Right: Nao, MF DOOM, Sade
Credits: Press, Eric Coleman, Chris Roberts

Get ready to dive into a sensational sonic journey with this week's edition of "What's Your Palate?!" Start your morning charged up with Nao's vibrant energy, navigate your afternoon with MF DOOM's masterful complexity, and ease into the evening with the soothing melodies of Sade. From daybreak to dusk, we've lined up the perfect playlist to keep your spirits high and your ears delighted. Tune in and transform your day with every note!

The Morning Songbird

Nao
Eva Pentel

Nao

NAO is a British singer-songwriter known for her distinct blend of neo-soul, R&B, and electronic music. Emerging onto the scene in 2016 with her debut album “For All We Know”, she quickly gained attention for her unique sound, which she describes as "wonky funk." This style combines smooth, downtempo beats with intricate melodies and her soulful, elastic vocals. NAO's music often delves into themes of love, self-discovery, and emotional resilience, making her a compelling figure in contemporary R&B.

Her 2018 album “Saturn” marked a significant moment in her career. The album, inspired by the astrological concept of the "Saturn return," explores the challenges and transformations that come with entering adulthood. Featuring collaborations with artists like SiR and Mura Masa, Saturn was both a critical and commercial success, praised for its introspective lyrics and innovative production.

NAO's most recent album, “And Then Life Was Beautiful”, released in 2021, continues to showcase her growth as an artist. The album was created during a period of significant personal change for NAO, including becoming a mother. This experience brought a new level of depth and positivity to her music. Tracks like "Woman," a collaboration with Lianne La Havas, and "Postcards," featuring serpentwithfeet, highlight her ability to blend deeply personal storytelling with universally relatable themes.

An interesting fact about NAO is that before her music career took off, she was a backup singer for artists like Kwabs and Jarvis Cocker. This experience helped her hone her vocal abilities and stage presence, eventually leading her to pursue a solo career where she now captivates audiences worldwide with her unique voice and musical style.

Midday Madvillainy

MF DOOM
Elliot Kennedy

MF DOOM

MF DOOM, born Daniel Dumile, is revered as one of the most enigmatic and influential figures in hip-hop. Known for his intricate wordplay, complex rhyme schemes, and the iconic metal mask he wore as part of his MF DOOM persona, Dumile crafted a unique legacy that continues to impact the genre even after his passing in 2020. His work often combined elements of comic book lore, metaphysical themes, and surreal humor, making his music a rich tapestry of cultural references and artistic innovation.

Dumile's most celebrated works include the albums “Madvillainy” (2004) with producer Madlib, and Mm..Food (2004), both of which are considered masterpieces in underground hip-hop. His ability to blend gritty beats with clever, multi-layered lyrics earned him the title of "your favorite rapper's favorite rapper."

Even posthumously, MF DOOM's influence remains strong. In 2024, there are ongoing efforts to release “Madvillainy 2”, a long-anticipated sequel to his collaboration with Madlib. According to Madlib, the project consists of unfinished demos that are being pieced together to honor DOOM's legacy. This continuation of his work is highly anticipated by fans, as it promises to bring more of the raw, unfiltered creativity that DOOM was known for.

A fun fact about MF DOOM is that his iconic metal mask was inspired by the Marvel Comics villain Doctor Doom. This mask became a central part of his identity, symbolizing his role as both a supervillain in the rap world and a rebel against the mainstream music industry.

Evening Serenity

Sade
Sophie Muller

Sade

Sade is an iconic figure in the world of soul and R&B, known for her timeless voice and the ethereal quality of her music. Since the release of her debut album “Diamond Life” in 1984, Sade has captivated audiences with her smooth vocals and elegant blend of jazz, soul, and soft rock. Her music often touches on themes of love, loss, and resilience, making her a long lasting favorite for fans across generations.

After a long hiatus, Sade has returned to the studio, recording new music for the first time in over a decade. In 2022, it was revealed that she and her band were the first artists to record at the newly reopened Miraval Studios in France, a historic studio co-owned by Brad Pitt and producer Damien Quintard. This new project marks Sade's first major work since her 2010 album “Soldier of Love”, and while details are still under wraps, fans are eagerly awaiting what is sure to be another masterpiece from this legendary artist.

Sade's music is characterized by its rich, emotive quality, blending soft ballads with powerful, introspective lyrics. For those unfamiliar with her work, she offers a listening experience that is both soothing and profound, making her an essential artist for anyone who appreciates the deeper emotional currents in music. Interestingly, Sade (despite her global fame) has always maintained a low profile, preferring to let her music speak for itself rather than seeking the spotlight. This humility and focus on artistry over fame have only added to her mystique and enduring appeal.

Playlist of the Week:
‘90s R&B

Blackstreet
Grammy

Immerse yourself in the smooth grooves and soulful melodies of the '90s with our R&B playlist, featuring iconic artists like Boyz II Men, Blackstreet, SWV, and Jodeci. Relive the golden era of rhythm and blues as you dive into classic tracks that define a generation. From sultry ballads to upbeat anthems, each song captures the essence of a decade renowned for its heartfelt lyrics and unforgettable hooks. Whether you're reminiscing or discovering these hits for the first time, this playlist is your gateway to the rich sounds of '90s R&B. Enjoy a musical journey back in time, where the vibes are always right and the beats never stop.