D’Angelo’s Top Ten Best Songs: The Definitive Playlist for Neo-Soul Fans

D’Angelo’s top ten best songs showcase the soul singer’s unmatched influence on modern R&B. From his 1995 debut Brown Sugar to the Grammy-winning Black Messiah, these tracks define a genre and continue to inspire new generations of musicians.

This guide highlights the essential tracks that mark his evolution as a songwriter, producer, and performer. It’s based on chart success, cultural impact, and critical acclaim from respected outlets like Billboard, BBC, and the Associated Press.

The Essential List: D’Angelo’s Top Ten Best Songs Ranked

1) “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” – Voodoo (2000)
D’Angelo’s most iconic song, known for its sensual vocals and minimalist instrumentation. It earned him the Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance and became a defining moment for neo-soul.

2) “Lady” – Brown Sugar (1995)
A smooth, romantic track that became his highest-charting single on the Billboard Hot 100. It proved his mainstream appeal without compromising his artistry.

3) “Brown Sugar” – Brown Sugar (1995)
The debut single that launched D’Angelo’s career and helped shape the neo-soul movement. Its warm groove and laid-back delivery still resonate with fans today.

4) “Really Love” – Black Messiah (2014)
A beautifully arranged ballad featuring lush strings and heartfelt lyrics. It won the Grammy Award for Best R&B Song and showcased D’Angelo’s maturity as a songwriter.

5) “Spanish Joint” – Voodoo (2000)
An upbeat fusion of soul and Latin jazz that highlights his musical versatility. Its complex rhythms and infectious groove make it one of his most celebrated compositions.

6) “Devil’s Pie” – Voodoo (1998/2000)
A gritty collaboration with DJ Premier that explores greed and morality. Originally released on the soundtrack for the film Belly, it remains a fan-favorite deep cut.

7) “The Charade” – Black Messiah (2014)
A politically charged anthem addressing social injustice. Its urgent lyrics and powerful instrumentation mark a bold chapter in D’Angelo’s catalog.

8) “One Mo’Gin” – Voodoo (2000)
A smooth, introspective song with rich instrumentation and emotional depth. It demonstrates his ability to craft deeply personal narratives.

9) “Left & Right” (feat. Method Man & Redman) – Voodoo (1999)
A seamless blend of soul and hip-hop featuring two legendary rappers. This track shows how D’Angelo bridged genres and appealed to a wide audience.

10) “Cruisin’” – Brown Sugar (1995)
A tender cover of Smokey Robinson’s classic hit. D’Angelo’s version honors the original while infusing it with his signature soulful style.

How These Songs Defined a Generation

D’Angelo’s music helped shape the neo-soul movement of the late 1990s and early 2000s. His blend of gospel, funk, R&B, and jazz created a sound that felt both timeless and new. Songs like “Untitled” and “Brown Sugar” became cultural touchstones, while “The Charade” and “Really Love” revealed an artist unafraid to evolve and tackle complex themes.

Critics and fans alike continue to celebrate these tracks not just as hits, but as essential works of modern soul music. Each song reflects D’Angelo’s commitment to authenticity and musical craftsmanship — qualities that set him apart from his contemporaries.

Final word: D’Angelo’s top ten best songs are more than a playlist — they are a journey through the evolution of neo-soul. Whether you’re discovering his music for the first time or revisiting old favorites, these tracks are the perfect starting point.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is D’Angelo’s most popular song?

“Untitled (How Does It Feel)” is widely regarded as his most iconic song, earning him a Grammy and defining his career.

Q2: Which D’Angelo song won a Grammy Award?

“Really Love” won the Grammy for Best R&B Song in 2016, and “Untitled” earned Best Male R&B Vocal Performance in 2001.

Q3: What song introduced D’Angelo to the world?

“Brown Sugar” was his debut single and marked his arrival as a major force in R&B in 1995.

Q4: Which song shows D’Angelo’s political side?

“The Charade” from Black Messiah addresses social issues and reflects his willingness to use music as a platform for change.

Q5: What is a good playlist for new listeners?

Start with “Untitled,” “Brown Sugar,” and “Really Love” to understand his style, then explore deeper cuts like “Spanish Joint” and “Devil’s Pie.”