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The Meaning Behind The Song: The Sweetest Taboo by Sade

Chloe Ramirez
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The Song That Redefined Love: The Sweetest Taboo by Sade

When it comes to sultry, soulful, and seductive music, no one does it quite like Sade Adu. Her smooth and silky voice combined with her poetic and powerful lyrics have earned her immense popularity and critical acclaim throughout the world. One of her most iconic and timeless songs is “The Sweetest Taboo,” which tells an enigmatic and alluring story about love, desire, and forbidden attraction.

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In this article, we will delve deep into the meaning behind “The Sweetest Taboo” and explore its cultural and emotional significance for millions of fans around the globe. From the origins of the song to the impact it has had on music and society, we will uncover the secrets and mysteries that make this song a masterpiece.

The Story Behind the Song

“The Sweetest Taboo” was released in 1985 as part of Sade’s second album, “Promise.” This album followed her critically acclaimed debut, “Diamond Life,” which had launched her into international stardom with hits such as “Smooth Operator” and “Your Love is King.”

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Sade wrote “The Sweetest Taboo” along with her longtime collaborator and co-writer, Stuart Matthewman. The song was inspired by her relationship with a man whom she described as “unconventional and taboo.” In an interview with Rolling Stone magazine, she revealed that the song was about “the kind of love that is difficult to explain, the kind of love that is not accepted by society, the kind of love that you feel in your bones.”

The song’s lyrics are imbued with a sense of longing, mystery, and sensuality. They evoke images of forbidden love, secret rendezvous, and overwhelming passion. The chorus, in particular, is instantly recognizable and has become a signature of Sade’s style: “If I tell you, if I tell you now, will you keep on, will you keep on loving me?”

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Symbols and Metaphors

One of the most intriguing aspects of “The Sweetest Taboo” is its use of symbols and metaphors to convey its message. The song is full of images that are both cryptic and evocative, such as:

  • The Diamond Light: This symbolizes the intensity and purity of the lovers’ connection. It is a reference to Sade’s previous album, “Diamond Life,” and represents the timeless and precious nature of their love.
  • The Holy Grail: This represents the ultimate quest for love and fulfillment. It is also a nod to Arthurian legend and the idea of chivalric romance.
  • The Bittersweet Between My Teeth: This metaphor refers to the agony and ecstasy of being in love with someone who is forbidden. The sweetness of the love is mixed with the bitter taste of societal disapproval.

These symbols and metaphors add depth and complexity to the song, allowing the listener to interpret its meaning in their own unique way.

The Impact of “The Sweetest Taboo”

“The Sweetest Taboo” was a huge success both commercially and critically. It reached the top ten in several countries and has been covered and sampled by dozens of artists over the years. It remains one of Sade’s most popular and beloved songs to this day.

But the impact of “The Sweetest Taboo” goes beyond its musical achievements. The song has become an anthem for love that defies convention and transcends boundaries. It has inspired countless people to embrace their own unconventional relationships and has helped to break down barriers of prejudice and bigotry.

In an interview with NPR, Sade reflected on the legacy of “The Sweetest Taboo” and the impact it has had on her fans. She said, “I’m grateful that it touched people’s hearts and made them feel like they weren’t alone in their feelings. It’s a beautiful thing to be able to connect with people in that way.”

“The Sweetest Taboo” has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials over the years. Its seductive and sensual tone makes it a perfect fit for scenes that showcase love, desire, and attraction.

One of the most memorable uses of the song was in the 1999 romantic comedy, “Notting Hill.” The scene where Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant’s characters finally profess their love for each other is set to the backdrop of “The Sweetest Taboo,” adding an extra layer of emotion and intensity to the moment.

Another notable use of the song was in a 2017 commercial for Lexus. The ad featured Sade herself driving a Lexus LC 500 and singing a new version of “The Sweetest Taboo.” The commercial showcased the timeless and sophisticated appeal of both Sade and the car, making it a memorable and effective marketing campaign.

Conclusion

“The Sweetest Taboo” is not just a song, it’s a masterpiece of music, poetry, and emotion. It captures the essence of love that defies convention, celebrates individuality, and enlivens the soul. Its impact has been far-reaching and enduring, inspiring generations of fans and artists to embrace their own unique experiences of love and desire.

As we continue to revisit and cherish this iconic song, we are reminded of the power of music to connect us, uplift us, and make us feel alive. “The Sweetest Taboo” is a shining example of that power, and it will continue to be a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come.