Few artists can capture the raw emotion, irresistible groove, and soulful depth of R&B quite like the legendary D’Angelo. A pioneer of the neo-soul movement, D’Angelo has spent decades creating music that transcends trends, touching hearts and stirring spirits worldwide. With a voice that feels like a warm embrace and an artistry that blends funk, jazz, gospel, and hip-hop, his songs have become timeless treasures in the world of music.

From his sultry ballads to his electrifying anthems, D’Angelo’s discography is a masterclass in vulnerability, rhythm, and soul. His ability to weave personal storytelling with irresistible melodies has earned him a devoted fanbase and critical acclaim. Whether you’re a longtime admirer or a newcomer to his music, this list of the top 10 most popular D’Angelo songs of all time will take you on a journey through his unparalleled artistry.

Get ready to revisit those moments of musical magic, where every note feels like it was crafted just for you. Let’s celebrate the genius of D’Angelo and explore the songs that have defined his career, cementing his place as one of the greatest artists of our time. Prepare to groove, reminisce, and fall in love all over again!

1. “Brown Sugar” (1995)

The title track from D’Angelo’s debut album Brown Sugar is an irresistible, funk-driven anthem that quickly became a defining song in the 90s neo-soul movement. From the first note, the song pulls you in with its rich bassline, smooth brass accents, and D’Angelo’s signature vocals that float effortlessly over the groove. With its laid-back yet funky vibe, “Brown Sugar” captures the essence of romance, sensuality, and nostalgia, making it a true love letter to the intoxicating pull of desire. The track blends elements of jazz, soul, and R&B, establishing D’Angelo as an artist who could seamlessly marry old-school influences with contemporary sounds. The song’s lyrics—celebrating the beauty and allure of a woman—are both playful and deeply passionate, as D’Angelo’s falsetto takes center stage, making his feelings palpable with every line. “Brown Sugar” is also notable for its iconic instrumentation, particularly the thick, irresistible bassline that grooves through the track, giving it a distinct, warm energy. This combination of soulful melodies, sensual lyrics, and smooth production instantly captured listeners and helped define the neo-soul genre. As the song gained popularity, it launched D’Angelo into stardom, making him a household name and cementing Brown Sugar as one of his most beloved songs. The track became a staple on radio stations, and its influence can still be felt today, as it remains a timeless classic in the neo-soul canon. With “Brown Sugar,” D’Angelo set the stage for his career, showing the world that he was an artist with the rare ability to blend sensuality, vulnerability, and pure musical brilliance.

2. “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” (2000)

“Untitled (How Does It Feel)” is one of D’Angelo’s most celebrated songs, and for good reason. From the moment it starts, this track oozes passion, vulnerability, and raw emotion, making it one of the most iconic slow jams of the 2000s. Featured on his album Voodoo, the song became a Grammy-winning masterpiece that showcased D’Angelo’s unparalleled vocal range, musicality, and ability to convey complex emotions through music. The song is essentially a slow-burning ballad, built around an intoxicating groove that layers soulful guitar riffs, a deep bassline, and smooth percussion to create a dreamy, almost hypnotic atmosphere. Lyrically, “Untitled” is a deep exploration of love, desire, and intimacy, with D’Angelo singing the words “How does it feel?”—a question that carries layers of yearning and longing. His voice, with its velvety falsetto, evokes a sense of vulnerability, while still maintaining an air of confidence and sensuality. The track is pure magic, effortlessly capturing the intoxicating feeling of being in love and consumed by desire. Not only was the song celebrated for its powerful music and vocals, but the accompanying music video also became legendary. With D’Angelo sensually performing the song in nothing but his underwear, the video became a cultural moment, symbolizing raw masculinity and sensuality in a way that had never been seen before. “Untitled” quickly became one of his signature songs, and its timeless quality ensures it remains one of the defining tracks of his career, perfectly capturing the spirit of Voodoo and D’Angelo’s artistic evolution.

3. “Lady” (1995)

“Lady” from D’Angelo’s debut album Brown Sugar is a playful, uplifting ode to the woman he admires. The track showcases D’Angelo’s signature mix of soul, funk, and jazz influences, all while highlighting his smooth vocal delivery and ability to capture the joy of infatuation. With its irresistible beat, catchy chorus, and laid-back groove, “Lady” became an instant hit, not only becoming one of D’Angelo’s most well-known songs but also solidifying his place as a leading figure in the neo-soul movement. The lyrics of “Lady” are full of devotion, as D’Angelo sings about the admiration and affection he feels for a woman who’s captured his heart. The track is full of playful flirtation, yet there’s also a sense of sincerity in his voice, making it both endearing and earnest. The instrumentation is a perfect match for the song’s vibe: smooth guitar licks, a bouncy bassline, and subtle horns that give the track a jazzy, infectious feel. D’Angelo’s falsetto is on full display, especially during the chorus, where his voice effortlessly soars, bringing a sense of warmth and excitement to the track. “Lady” was one of the standout tracks on Brown Sugar, earning radio play and quickly becoming a favorite among fans. Its upbeat and feel-good energy made it a staple in D’Angelo’s live performances, where it always received a warm reception from the audience. “Lady” helped define the sound of ‘90s neo-soul and solidified D’Angelo’s role as a key figure in the genre’s emergence, bringing a fresh, modern take on classic soul music while injecting it with a youthful energy that made it so relatable.

4. “Cruisin’” (1995)

D’Angelo’s rendition of Smokey Robinson’s classic “Cruisin’” from his debut album Brown Sugar is a smooth, dreamy take on one of soul music’s most enduring love songs. The track’s laid-back, mellow vibe perfectly suits D’Angelo’s soulful voice, which delivers each lyric with a sense of warmth and tenderness. The song is a reimagining of Robinson’s original, with D’Angelo bringing his own unique flair to the track. From the opening guitar strums to the lush background harmonies, the song is enveloped in a rich, smooth sound that invites you to relax and lose yourself in its romance. D’Angelo’s tender delivery creates an intimate atmosphere, as he croons about taking a leisurely drive with his lover, lost in the joy of their companionship. The lyrics are simple yet effective, capturing the joy and serenity of a quiet moment spent together. What sets D’Angelo’s version apart from the original is the subtle, yet distinctive, way he brings a fresh sense of intimacy and sensuality to the song. His deep, soulful voice weaves effortlessly through the verses, with the accompanying instrumentation—gentle piano, soft percussion, and smooth bass—creating a dreamy, almost hypnotic feel. “Cruisin’” became a standout track on Brown Sugar, further showcasing D’Angelo’s ability to blend classic soul with contemporary sound. His version of “Cruisin’” highlights not only his vocal mastery but also his ability to make a beloved classic feel fresh and new. The song’s smooth, romantic energy made it a fan favorite and a defining moment in D’Angelo’s career.

5. “Left & Right” (1999)

“Left & Right,” from D’Angelo’s Voodoo album, is a funky collaboration with rap duo Method Man and Redman that merges soulful grooves with hip-hop swagger. The track is upbeat, punchy, and brimming with energy, making it one of the standout moments on Voodoo. From the first beat, you can tell this song is a departure from the smoother, more sensual tracks on the album, embracing a heavier, more rhythmic vibe. The song’s production, helmed by D’Angelo himself, is a masterclass in blending hip-hop with neo-soul, creating a seamless fusion of genres that perfectly complements the guest appearances by Method Man and Redman. The beat is heavy and funky, with an infectious bassline and snappy percussion that sets the tone for the rest of the track. The chorus is catchy and filled with a rhythmic, call-and-response energy that makes you want to move. D’Angelo’s contribution is smooth and soulful, delivering his verses with his usual falsetto and effortless charm, while Method Man and Redman bring their hip-hop flow, adding another layer of energy and contrast to the song. The interplay between the artists creates a sense of fun and camaraderie, with each contributing their unique style to the track. “Left & Right” is a celebration of collaboration and musical versatility, with D’Angelo seamlessly merging soul, funk, and rap into a groove that’s both infectious and full of personality. The song’s upbeat tempo and playful energy make it a perfect addition to Voodoo, showcasing D’Angelo’s ability to experiment and evolve while still staying true to his musical roots.

6. “Devil’s Pie” (1998)

“Devil’s Pie,” originally featured on the Belly soundtrack, is one of D’Angelo’s most thought-provoking and gritty tracks. The song critiques materialism, excess, and the darker side of fame and success, offering a sharp contrast to some of the more sensual and romantic themes in his catalog. The track’s production, handled by DJ Premier, features a hypnotic beat that feels eerie and ominous, perfectly matching the song’s themes of temptation and corruption. The lyrics of “Devil’s Pie” are a bold commentary on society’s obsession with material wealth and the hollow pursuit of status. D’Angelo’s delivery is raw and intense, with his voice cutting through the dense instrumentation to deliver the message with conviction and clarity. The chorus is haunting, as D’Angelo repeatedly sings about being drawn to the “devil’s pie,” a metaphor for the seductive allure of materialism and the temptations it presents. The song’s beat is a blend of dark, pulsating bass and sharp, chopped-up samples, creating a sense of urgency and tension. “Devil’s Pie” stands out in D’Angelo’s discography not only for its lyrical depth but also for its raw, unpolished production that complements the song’s themes. It’s a reflection on the struggles and contradictions that come with fame and success, capturing the dark undercurrents that often go unnoticed in the glamorous world of celebrity. The track’s gritty vibe, combined with D’Angelo’s powerful vocals, makes it one of his most compelling and thought-provoking songs, showcasing his ability to merge political commentary with soul music in a way that few other artists could achieve.

7. “Me and Those Dreamin’ Eyes of Mine” (1995)

“Me and Those Dreamin’ Eyes of Mine” is one of the standout tracks from Brown Sugar, showcasing D’Angelo’s ability to create soulful, heartfelt ballads that resonate deeply with listeners. The song’s dreamy, lush instrumentation sets the tone for a track that’s both romantic and introspective, as D’Angelo sings about the longing and desire he feels for a lover. The lyrics are a poetic meditation on love, with D’Angelo expressing vulnerability through lines like “Me and those dreamin’ eyes of mine,” which speak to the way he sees his lover with both admiration and longing. The song’s arrangement is full of delicate piano, smooth bass, and subtle percussion, creating an intimate atmosphere that perfectly complements the heartfelt delivery of D’Angelo’s vocals. His voice is soft and tender, effortlessly conveying the emotions of yearning and love. The lyrics explore the complexity of love, with D’Angelo reflecting on the powerful connection he feels with his partner. “Me and Those Dreamin’ Eyes of Mine” is a beautiful example of D’Angelo’s ability to craft songs that are both musically sophisticated and emotionally rich, capturing the essence of desire and devotion. The track’s smooth, romantic energy has made it a fan favorite, and it remains a defining moment in his career. Through this song, D’Angelo showed his ability to evoke deep emotions and create a sense of intimacy, making it one of the standout tracks on Brown Sugar.

8. “Feel Like Makin’ Love” (2000)

D’Angelo’s interpretation of Roberta Flack’s classic “Feel Like Makin’ Love” is a masterful example of how to take a beloved standard and make it entirely your own. From the moment the track begins, it’s clear that D’Angelo has infused the song with his signature neo-soul flair, transforming it from a romantic ballad into a sensual, jazz-infused groove. The production on this track, like much of Voodoo, is warm and rich, with lush strings, smooth bass, and soulful percussion that gives the song a deep, luxurious feel. D’Angelo’s voice is at its best here, delivering the song’s lyrics with a mix of tenderness and passion. His delivery of the line “Feel like makin’ love” is especially evocative, as his voice moves from soft and intimate to powerful and emotive, perfectly capturing the mood of the song. The arrangement is minimalist yet deeply effective, allowing D’Angelo’s voice to take center stage while the music creates a sensual atmosphere that builds and swells throughout the track. “Feel Like Makin’ Love” is a standout track not only because of D’Angelo’s performance, but also because of the way he reinterprets the original, bringing a contemporary, neo-soul edge to a timeless classic. His version of the song feels fresh, intimate, and deeply personal, showing his ability to put his unique stamp on a song while still paying tribute to its roots. The result is a version of “Feel Like Makin’ Love” that feels entirely new, yet equally as powerful and emotionally resonant as the original.

9. “Really Love” (2014)

“Really Love” from D’Angelo’s long-awaited album Black Messiah is a breathtaking ballad that blends lush strings, Spanish guitar, and D’Angelo’s soulful vocals to create a song that is both intimate and universally resonant. The track feels timeless, combining elements of classic soul with modern influences to create something that sounds both fresh and nostalgic. The lyrics of “Really Love” are an ode to deep, lasting love, with D’Angelo singing about the transcendent power of love and the way it can sustain us through life’s challenges. His delivery is filled with tenderness and sincerity, as he conveys the depth of emotion that comes with being in a truly meaningful relationship. The instrumentation is rich and layered, with the acoustic guitar providing a soft, romantic foundation while the strings add an ethereal quality that elevates the track to another level. The song’s slow, steady groove creates a sense of intimacy, drawing the listener in and allowing them to feel every note and word. “Really Love” is a beautiful example of D’Angelo’s ability to create music that is both personal and universal, capturing the beauty of love in a way that feels deeply intimate yet relatable. It’s a song that speaks to the power of love to heal, inspire, and connect us all, and it’s one of the most stunning moments on Black Messiah. The song was widely praised for its emotional depth and its lush, timeless production, making it one of the standout tracks of D’Angelo’s career.

10. “Sugah Daddy” (2014)

“Sugah Daddy,” from D’Angelo’s Black Messiah, is a playful and funky track that combines sharp piano riffs, handclaps, and infectious grooves to create a song that is impossible to resist. The track showcases D’Angelo’s ability to blend old-school funk with modern influences, creating something that feels fresh and experimental while still rooted in classic soul traditions. The song’s funky bassline and catchy melodies give it an upbeat, celebratory feel, and D’Angelo’s performance is full of swagger and charm. His vocals are smooth and sultry, delivering the playful lyrics with a sense of confidence and fun. “Sugah Daddy” is a departure from some of the more introspective tracks on Black Messiah, offering a lighthearted and infectious groove that invites listeners to dance and have fun. The song’s production is experimental and layered, with quirky instrumentation that adds texture and depth to the track. The rhythm section is tight and punchy, creating a sense of energy and excitement that makes it impossible to sit still. The lyrics, which are playful and flirtatious, add to the fun vibe of the song, making it a track that exudes confidence and charm. “Sugah Daddy” is a perfect example of D’Angelo’s ability to create music that is both experimental and undeniably catchy, blending classic funk elements with contemporary production techniques to create a song that feels timeless and fresh at the same time. It’s one of the standout moments on Black Messiah and a testament to D’Angelo’s unique musical vision.