“The Sweetest Taboo” is a sultry and sophisticated track by British band Sade, led by vocalist Sade Adu. Released in October 1985 with “You’re Not the Man” on the B-side as the lead single from their second studio album, Promise, the song became one of the band’s most recognizable hits, celebrated for its smooth blend of jazz, soul, and pop influences.
The lyrics depict an intense and transcendent love affair, likened to a forbidden pleasure. The song’s title, “The Sweetest Taboo,” suggests that the love described is both irresistible and unconventional, adding an air of mystery and allure.
Musically, “The Sweetest Taboo” is a smooth jazz and R&B track characterized by its laid-back groove, understated percussion, and melodic bassline. The subtle instrumentation is complemented by Sade Adu’s velvety and emotive vocal delivery, which carries a sense of intimacy and sophistication. The production, helmed by Robin Millar, creates a warm and immersive soundscape, enhancing the song’s romantic and sensual atmosphere.
The track was a commercial success, reaching No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and charting in the top 20 in several other countries, including the United Kingdom. It also performed well on the Adult Contemporary and R&B charts, solidifying Sade’s crossover appeal and establishing the band as one of the defining acts of the 1980s.
The music video, directed by Brian Ward, reflects the song’s sensual and sophisticated tone. It features Sade Adu with the band playing in a New York jazz lounge whilst Sade reflects on a man who was a former lover. The storyline was continued in the video to follow-up single “Is It a Crime?“.