The Secrets Behind Sade's Success |
| May 26 2011 |
Her world tour has just kicked off in Europe to rave reviews. Now one of the folks who knew Sade "back when" is reflecting on how she built her amazing career. Robin Miller produced Sade's first two albums and recalls that even as a novice, she had a clear vision of what she wanted. After a sellout show at a hip London club [where 1000 people were turned away at the door], labels were clamoring to sign her. One even wanted to send her to America to work with Quincy Jones. But Sade opted for a smaller deal that gave her total control over the music. Speaking to the Guardian, Miller recalls, "The versions of 'Your Love Is King" and 'Smooth Operator'...are exactly the way they were...We never remixed or remastered them. They're the same versions that were rejected by everybody." For her debut album, Diamond Life, Sade also used her background in fashion and creative writing to provide input to the PR and marketing people, not allowing a photo or sentence to go out without her approval. Ironically, part of her image had less to do with style and more to do with nerves. Miller says the reason she didn't move on stage for the first few years of her career -- which everyone thought was "cool" -- was because she was terrified. She told him, "I feel like if I even just shuffle my feet I'll look ridiculous." Sade has just released The Ultimate Collection; her tour hits the States in June.
Last changed: May 26 2011 at 8:51 AM
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